I can count on one hand the moments I’ve had while traveling when I was left completely awestruck. Being sniffed by a polar bear in Canada. Seeing a pack of wolves howl in Alaska. Those kinds of moments. I'm lucky enough to have had another one recently at Lyon Arboretum in Hawaii. As if spending an hour wandering a tropical rainforest with my oldest son weren’t cool … [Read more...]
Fun Friday: Watch a Sunset
Fun Friday activities are quick-and-simple ways to explore nature in your own backyard. THE IDEA Watch a sunset with your kids. Okay, I admit my inspiration for this one is pretty spectacular: A sunset on the beach at Waikiki. But the truth is, we’ve watched the sun set from tons of different locations. That’s half the fun – comparing one day’s sunset with … [Read more...]
Saying So Long to My Childhood Garden
Today marks a big milestone in my life: One year ago my dad passed away. And in the year since, I have experienced a world of emotions, countless little and big changes, much, much growth and in a way, even a re-emergence. I am certainly not the same person today that I was 365 days ago. I can see parts of her still in this new me. This better, stronger, happier version of me. … [Read more...]
Lessons From Nature: Raising Our Adopted Caterpillars
About three weeks ago, we adopted two caterpillars from Kidspace Children’s Museum. This is the story of their metamorphosis. GETTING STARTED During its Caterpillar Adoption Days (which run through April 17, 2010), Kidspace provides you with a caterpillar with enough nectar in the container to help it reach its chrysalis stage, plus a handy care guide and adoption papers. … [Read more...]
Wondrous Wildflowers at the Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve
I’ve wanted to see the elusive California poppy fields at the Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve for years. I’ve long envied the glorious photos of bright orange blooms blanketing the hillsides and wanted to see this fantastic display of nature in person. The trick is in the timing. The Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve usually opens in mid-March and stays open … [Read more...]