Tag: nature

Things to Do in Homestead-Florida

I did not know much about Homestead-Florida, as I researched our Everglades National Park trip. Unknown to me, was how many activities existed in this city, located between Miami and The Florida Keys. Many people just drive through, but it is worth a stop for exploration. The Coral Castle This popular, quirky, Homestead-Florida, tourist site,…
Biscayne National Park-Florida

Our boat gently bounces over the turquoise, National Park water. If your eyes need a dose of the Caribbean, without the Caribbean travel, Biscayne National Park will quench your vision. Biscayne National Park is one of the United States’ natural water parks. Though there is land, the park is mainly comprised of water. The Dante…
Everglades National Park-Coe and Flamingo

Despite all of the spectacular nature, it is my favorite moment of the day, at Everglades National Park. “Are there any questions?” Park Ranger Ashley asks. A young girl, in a pink hat, raises her hand. “How do I become a Park Ranger? I really want to be a Park Ranger someday.” Park Ranger Ashley’s…
Everglades National Park-Shark Valley

The walkers observe us hungrily, as the Shark Valley Tram, in Everglades National Park, makes its way back to the visitors’ center. I imagine at the start of the day, ambition and motivation, convinced them the loop is an easy saunter. Reaching the tower, the view incites oohhs and aahhs, until reality sets in. After…
Big Cypress National Preserve-Florida

“Stay right there, I have to get the book,” directs Park Ranger Maggie, at Big Cypress National Preserve. The book is where Park Rangers record the “quote of the day.” I don’t inquire if all National Park sites have a quote of the day book, or just Big Cypress. I am too excited. Entering the…
Williamsburg Botanical Garden

If you build a garden, we will come, no matter the size. Though Williamsburg Botanical Garden is small, it is mighty (or at least it’s growing to be). Located in Freedom Park, the garden is a free, colorful, oasis. A respite from the hustle and bustle of tourist laden spaces. During our visit to Williamsburg,…
Yorktown Battlefield-Virginia

It’s Yorktown Battlefield day. I play the song Yorktown, from the Hamilton soundtrack, as I get ready fortoday’s adventure. The creative arts fascinate me. How writing, music, acting, and visuals, can makeinformation, that dully washed over you in history class, come alive. I know the musical backwards andforwards, so today, instead of just names and…
Nature to Explore at the New Jersey Shore

If you have images of the New Jersey Shore, they most likely include stretches of sandy beaches with boisterous waves. Mini-golf, carousels, and coasters come to mind, and visions of pizza slices dance in your head. You may not imagine, tucked away benches for birding, meadows filled with flowers, ord serene swans, but there is…
Badlands National Park and Prairie Homestead-South Dakota

Rays of light beam down on the sign, as we make our way to Badlands National Park. The sign reads, Prairie Homestead. “Can we go, can we go, can we go,” I beg. Prairie Homestead As a kid I was obsessed with all things prairie. Thanks to a Dad with construction skills, I had a prairie style…