Summer temperatures have officially reached Southern California, so this week might not have been the best time to go watermelon picking in Irvine. But I’d heard such great things about the tours at Tanaka Farms that I couldn’t resist the chance to take the big explorer for a visit.Lucky for us, the heat wasn’t as fierce as it can get. There were intermittent breezes and thanks … [Read more...]
Our Top 10 Spring Nature Adventures
It’s hard to believe that summer is just around the corner. In one month’s time, the big explorer will be enjoying the beginnings of his first summer break. Around here that means spending more time outside exploring nature (cue me doing the happy dance).But before the cool, colorful days of spring are gone for good, I thought it’d be fun to share a top 10 list of our favorite … [Read more...]
Beautiful Butterflies at the Pavilion of Wings
Every spring and summer, the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County plays host to hundreds of live butterflies at its outdoor Butterfly Pavilion (formerly known as the Pavilion of Wings). It's worth a visit because it offers kids a chance to get up close views of butterflies native to California, including the fan favorite orange and black Monarch. The outdoor … [Read more...]
Fun on the Farm
When I was a kid, we spent much of our summers in Yosemite. Back then, the Pioneer History Center in Wawona featured special events and activities for the kids every weekend. I can remember making candles from beeswax, making cornbread from scratch and watching horseshoes being made by blacksmiths. But above all else, I remember learning how to milk a cow. For a city girl … [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...]