Until I visited Lake Balboa at Anthony C. Beilenson Park in Van Nuys with The Little Explorer a little more than a year ago, I had no idea there were some 2,000 cherry blossom trees right here in Los Angeles.It turns out that an anonymous Japanese benefactor donated the trees, which were planted in 1992 (at least, according to Wikipedia). These beauties originated from a single … [Read more...]
The Big List of Outdoor Adventures for Los Angeles Kids
Los Angeles may be well known for the Hollywood Sign and seriously awful traffic. But those of us who call L.A. home also know it is full of amazing outdoor places for families to play and explore year round. This big list of outdoor adventures for Los Angeles kids is a great place to get some inspiration. No more excuses for not being able to find somewhere to explore nature … [Read more...]
5 Places to Ice Skate Outside in Los Angeles
Okay, I admit it: The Explorers and I have yet to go ice skating – indoors or out. (The Big Explorer has a curious fear of falling and I’m not too sure-footed myself.) But after checking out all the options available right here in Los Angeles, I’m thinking this is the year we finally give it a try. If you’re wondering where you can glide on ice outdoors this holiday … [Read more...]
Field Trip Friday: Wildlife Learning Center
The Wildlife Learning Center may not look like much from the street. In fact, if you blink as you drive by, you just might miss it. But nestled in an old olive grove behind the unassuming entrance, you’ll find a shady, natural environment that’s home to more than 70 different species of rescued and zoo-born wild animals. The Wildlife Learning Center not only rescues … [Read more...]
Anthony C. Beilenson Park (formerly Lake Balboa): A Weekday Nature Haven in the City
The little explorer and I recently shared one of those magic moments that nature so often provides. We stood just a few feet away from one of the most majestic birds to grace our local shores: a great blue heron. If you’d told me I’d have an up-close-and-personal moment with a great blue heron at a city park, I wouldn’t have believed it. But that’s what happened when we visited … [Read more...]