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A few weeks ago, looking for something new to do outside, my family and I happened upon a little park—a field really—in the middle of a busy part of town. We had driven past it many times but never stopped to investigate. But this particular Saturday, the rain was coming. We were trying to get …

Looking for a fun, cheap, family-friendly outdoor activity that feels like a treasure hunt? Give magnet fishing a try! When my preteen son came to me and asked about getting a magnet fishing set, I had no idea what he was talking about. After a little research, we ordered one on Amazon (search for Magnet …

Last January found me recovering from COVID, trying to feel at home in our new neighborhood, and needing a way for the kids to run off excess energy in wet winter weather. So on a whim, I made a goal for us: take one hundred walks in 2021. My kids and I dressed warmly, clipped …

Venice Beach, Florida, in Sarasota County is known as the “Shark Tooth Capital of the World” and for good reason. When my family went there in September (and again in November—we really like that beach!), it took only minutes to begin finding shark teeth in the sand. Sarasota sits on a deep fossil layer, and …

We’ve always known it. Study after study has shown that the wisdom of previous generations was right: getting outdoors — into the sun, breathing fresh air — works wonders in every way. It boosts our immune systems, inspires activity and exercise, brings calm, and lowers stress. But sometimes in the busyness of life, a whole …

Looking for a delicious, healthy dessert or snack for the holidays that is easy to make and sure to please? This homemade, warm applesauce is the perfect choice. You can make this in an instant pot or on the stove top. It’s quick and delicious, sugar free, and full of flavor. After a particularly large …

Tucked away in the middle of the Great Salt Lake in Utah is a delightful, unique state park called Antelope Island. A long, narrow island, Antelope Island is easily accessible by car, via a bridge from the mainland. It’s a pretty drive over the lake, and you can often see shore birds and boats. Antelope …

Near the south entrance of Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming is the lovely Jenny Lake. Though much smaller than Jackson Lake to the north, Jenny Lake is still almost 1200 acres across and is a focal point of the park. Its waters are crystal clear and cold—it is a glacial lake—and its bottom, at …