just north of Atlanta at the Etowah Indian Mounds State Historic Site. With six earthen mounds, this 53 acre historic site protects the land used from 1000 to 1550 AD by several thousand Native Americans. Start your visit to Etowah at the visitor center and prepare to walk around the site after this introduction to the plaza and three mounds which once held the priest's home, temples, and burial sites.
National Civil War Naval Museum – Columbus, Georgia
Did you know there are only four ironclad from the Civil War left? And one of right here in Georgia! Designed around the artifacts, this building houses the CSS Jackson, the largest surviving Confederate warship. At more than 200 feet long, it’s remains are especially impressive when you step back to see the frame built to show its original size. Also present is other salvaged ship wreckage and replicas as well as weapons and equipment from the time. Leave time to explore the wall of detailed timeline of the Civil War; it’s enough in its own.
Dunwoody Nature Center – Dunwoody, Georgia
The Dunwoody Nature Center is a free, shaded nature area just north of downtown Atlanta. There are multiple playgrounds to climb, tons of native forest for nature exploring, a wetlands boardwalk, stream water play, two miles of hiking trails, and a nature center with opportunities for geocaching nearby. It’s a great green space for a day of family fun.
Cahokia Mounds: The Ancient Native American Mound Building Civilization You Shouldn’t Miss
Did you know the largest ancient settlement north of Mexico is just fifteen minutes east of St. Louis? It's practically right over the Mississippi River bridge. However, it isn’t one of the top visited places in St. Louis. Here's the research you need to prepare yourself for a great learning and exploring trip through our country's largest ancient city.
Kids and Dirt: Finding Quartz in Arkansas
Details for planning a trip to Wegner Quartz Mine in Mount Ida, Arkansas - what to expect, what to pack, and other mom tips.
Take the Kids to the Museum (and How Adults Mess It Up)
During our last museum experience, my kids waited for their big sister outside the bathroom only to jump out and loudly yell BOO! She screamed. They laughed. In the art museum. Just kids being kids and enjoying the museum and each other… but… I don’t think the docents see it as appropriate behavior. And definitely … Continue reading Take the Kids to the Museum (and How Adults Mess It Up)
Top Ten Tips: How to Travel with Kids All By Yourself!
When we moved to Georgia from Texas, I decided to quit my part-time job and stay home full-time. My husband was betting against me lasting more than six months, and my stubbornness kept me from admitting the same thing to myself. However, here we are more than a year and a half later with Mom … Continue reading Top Ten Tips: How to Travel with Kids All By Yourself!
Staying in the UK: 5 Things You Need to Know
AKA: Things I Wish I had Known Before Feeling Stupid in a Rental House Before our trip to England and Scotland, I briefly refreshed myself on the obvious differences between United States and UK life. The important stuff: biscuit means cookie, chips means French fries, and crisps means chips. Lastly, I bought a plug converter. … Continue reading Staying in the UK: 5 Things You Need to Know
A Charleston Visit to Boone Hall Plantation
Boone Hall Plantation in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina is the longest continually working plantation in the country and a lovely place to experience real southern history. Picture the magnificent grand entrance you expect from the Southern plantation movies. Tall towering oaks line both sides of the one lane road leading up to the grand entrance … Continue reading A Charleston Visit to Boone Hall Plantation
Schooling from the Driver’s Seat
Learning happens anywhere and any time, usually without you acknowledging it. When you do call it “learning”, that’s when the kids stop doing that very thing. Whether you do traditional schooling or homeschooling, driving in the car is a great time to do some fun family learning any time. Now, a quick disclaimer. Being on … Continue reading Schooling from the Driver’s Seat
