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 Friday: Spring Nature Scavenger Hunt
Fun Friday activities are quick-and-simple ways to explore nature in your own backyard. The idea Take a spring nature walk around the neighborhood. Our winter nature scavenger hunt a couple months ago was such a hit that I figured another was in order, especially since the seasons have changed. I chose this checklist for our hunt because it requires kids to use … [Read more...]
Hiking the Makapu`u Point Lighthouse Trail With My Big Explorer
One of my favorite ways to explore when I travel is on foot. Hiking that is. Now that I’ve got kids, I look for hikes that aren’t too long or too steep and yet still offer a big payoff. While visiting Oahu last month, I figured a trek to Diamond Head would be just the thing. Especially since the big explorer was dying to see a real live volcano (albeit long ago inactive). … [Read more...]
A Sweet Take on Strawberry Picking
For Mother’s Day this year, I didn’t long for a day at the spa or even breakfast in bed. No, I wanted to go strawberry picking with my kids. (I suppose if you’ve been reading my blog for a while, that comes as no surprise!) But instead of a post about our wonderful morning picking berries, I thought it might be fun to let my big explorer – now 5 ½ years old – do the … [Read more...]