Break Time

Break Time

Dan takes a break during a long hike in Cowles Bog. This point was two miles from the parking area, and the highest point on the trail. The views were great - in the winter, the leaves don't obstruct anything.

Most of the snow melted on this part of the dune, but much of the wooded areas were still covered under an inch or so.

Still two miles back to the trail head, Dan took the opportunity to rest on the exposed roots of an oak tree.

Good Old Fashioned Fun

Good Old Fashioned Fun

I've seen this ride a few times over the years. A local resident who put together a little train ride for the children who visit. It appears to be built of plastic barrels bolted to hand carts. Genius.

LaPorte County, Indiana

Round and Round

Round and Round

Dan takes a ride on a bear at the annual Bass Pro Shops Christmas Fest. Bringing a good old fashioned Christmas to children with free rides, shooting galleries, archery targets, photos with Santa, and crafts.

Boardwalk

Boardwalk

In an attempt to keep hikers dry, an elevated boardwalk marks the path through a portion of the Mnoke Prairie. It also keeps hikers out of the woods and off of the delicate plants.

Back in early 2011, this boardwalk was under quite a bit of water. It's raised two to three feet above the ground, and at that time, it was submerged beneath a foot or more of water.

Trilobite Hunt

Trilobite Hunt

Our annual journey to the Kankakee State Park , while mom attends a "ladies only" Christmas party. This year, there was no snow or ice, so we took the opportunity to hunt for fossils. Not much luck, but still a nice time outdoors.

We still managed to sneak back to the party and help "dispose" of the leftovers!

Carolers On 8th Avenue

Carolers On 8th Avenue

Kicking off the Holiday Season, carolers sing on the downtown streets during Holland, Michigan's Holiday Open House in late November.

Each year, the shops and businesses of Holland open their doors to shoppers for a first peek at the Christmas season. Offering many sale items, free gift wrapping, pastries and beverages, the stores are packed with eager Christmas shoppers. There's even a place to try chestnuts roasted on an open fire.