Recent Ramblings

I really enjoy sharing the places we go. I hope you'll get out and go too!

As members of the Turtleback Zoo, we visit about once a month. We enjoy a few hours there and sometimes bring our lunch. There are plenty of animals to visit as well as a carousel and a play structure. The boys really like the reptile house and the train ride. I always enjoy the hilly walk and fresh air.

The largest exhibits are the gibbon enclosure, the brand new "Big Cats" display and the very impressive Wolf exhibit. There is a barn with all sort of 'farm' animals, an 'Outback Experience' with Australian animals, and an all-New Jersey section. Sea Lions are coming soon! We love it and I think you will also.

We paid a return visit to the Miller-Cory House (circa 1740) for their 'Sheep to Shawl' demonstration. We watched as several sheep were sheared the old-fashioned way with large, hand held shears. We vistited for a long time with the ladies in the house who were spinning yarn, knitting and using the loom to make cloth. The docents were very eager to share their craft with the kids and entertained questions.

Visit on some upcoming Sunday afternoon and you will most likey find the ladies there cooking over the open hearth in the outbuilding.

Another place we visited was a labyrinth, located in a private garden in Warren, NJ. We were invited by a mom who was kind enough to facilitate a few moments of meditative thought before we entered the maze. I did not expect the experience to be as meaningful and spiritual as it turned out to be.

The kids ran and played and wrestled while several moms shared their struggles and desires and ultimately encouraged each other. This walk peaked my interest in labyrinth walking and there are more in my future.

Another place we frequent is The Somerset Patriot's minor league baseball stadium in Bound Brook, NJ. Tickets are reasonably priced and the game is so kid friendly - there are even 'lawn seats' available where you can spread out and watch the game. Firework nights are our favorite.

That is where we've been lately. Where have you been?