Before I began writing here, I had little interest in gardening. And in the 2+ years since, we’ve tried to grow quite a few things with mixed results. Truth is, our favorite thing to do in our backyard is to watch the wildlife – especially the birds, butterflies and yes, even the bees. As a long time reader of Ecosystem Gardening (a wonderful blog with the tagline “Create … [Read more...]
My Friday 5: Favorite Things to Do in Yosemite National Park
This April 21-29 is National Park Week here in the United States. To encourage people to visit some of the amazing places that make up the national park system, entrance to all 397 parks is FREE for the entire week! Of course, I’m partial to one particular national park. What’s on my to-do list when we head to Yosemite?Tunnel View overlook, 4/20121. Hit the trails. I asked … [Read more...]
Exploring the Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch With Kids
Each spring, The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch come alive in blazing fields of color. More than 50 acres of color, in fact. The main attraction? Giant Tecolote Ranunculus in more than 10 different colors, including shades such as “flame,” “merlot” and “café.” And don't forget the view of the Pacific Ocean. Yeah, it's good stuff.The fields have a history that goes back almost … [Read more...]
Sharing Nature With Friends: Our First Nature Exchange
My kids love collecting items from nature whenever we’re out exploring – whether we’re in the backyard or beyond. Sticks, flower petals, rocks, seed pods and the like. I know some folks feel pretty strongly that removing items from nature is inherently wrong. I agree with that notion in theory; but I also know that my kids learn a lot by touching, looking at and studying found … [Read more...]
Can You Come Out and Play?
I’m thrilled to see that quite a few of you have accepted my challenge to get outside every day in April, snap a photo and share it with the rest of us. The April #GetOutside Photo Scavenger Hunt is nearing its halfway point, so no time like the present to encourage the rest of you to come join the fun.A few things to keep in mind:The idea is to take one photo per day. Your … [Read more...]