Making Observations About Nature

One of the very first things I taught in my high school biology classroom was how to make observations about nature. I took my ninth and tenth grade students outside to three trees next to the parking lot and I asked them to make as many observations as they could in twenty minutes. It took … Read more

The Cozy Cloak Review

In the vast landscape of outdoor gear, the Cozy Cloak is an innovation that bridges protection and simplicity for families venturing into the great outdoors in less than ideal conditions.  Crafted after a disastrous cross-country skiing trip, the inventors of the Cozy Cloak (and parents of two tiny humans) were determined to extend outdoor pursuits … Read more

10 Ways to Beat The Winter Blues

Woman pulling a sled in a winter scene with mountains background

Every year as the amount of daylight dwindles you may feel a shift in your personality.  This is most often referred to as the “Winter Blues” or in the more serious form, Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).  SAD is defined by the Mayo Clinic as “a type of depression that’s related to changes in seasons… sapping … Read more

Layering Kids for Cold Weather

A row of kids bundled up in snow clothes smile for the camera.

One of the most common questions I get as a winter loving mom is, “how do you dress kids to stay warm for winter play?” Luckily, I have the answer for you here, and also luckily, it’s not that complicated. Layers are the answer, and getting the right fabrics for those layers is key. Layering- … Read more