This weekend, we wondered out of the house - even though it was raining!
We had planned on going to the Beach, but decided against it because of the weather. We may not make it to the North Carolina beach this year... but we have several other beaches still on the agenda for the year, so maybe that is OK.
In an odd and round-about way, I found out about a new "park" that sounded interesting. It's called the Prairie Ridge Ecostation - and is close to the Art Museum. So, the kids and I donned our rain jackets while the hubby grabbed an umbrella, and we headed on our adventure.
Although it was cloudy and wet, it wasn't doing more than misting rain.
We pulled in (and scratched our heads a bit). There was a park-like sign, but it looked like a big field. And... it really was a big field. However, once we ventured in further, we found a "Nature Playscape" buried in the woods that was very, very cool.
Lots of "natural"areas for doing things like building (using fallen tree limbs), a water spicket for playing with water, a tunnel, a slide, a HUGE sand pit with "real" shovels - chalk to use on real "slate" pieces, and natural "drum"s made of different kinds of wood sticks. Lots of things to climb on.... Overall, a very cool area that made use of NATURE to form the playground!
The best part? We were the ONLY family there. It was a perfect way to spend some time with the kids! The park even has a bird look-out/building that would make my in-laws very jealous. An amazing hour or so in the park with the family.
So, muddy and all, we ventured next to the Art Museum (which originally was really just our "back-up" plan in the event we got rained out for the park). There, we were able to "spontaneously" join a tour aimed at kids. We saw the 5 year old king/ruler, an egyptian statue, and a slave portrayal of Harriet Tubman. Overall, a cool way to experience the museum with a 2 and 4 year old.
Next, we ventured to the "old" building, and caught ourselves in a multi-cultural experience! A bus of kids from a Chinese (Bejiing) high school showing off writing in Chinese, tea, knot
tying, paper crafts, and various traditional games. Another cool hour
or so!
As I noted to DH on the way home - - the morning was doing
things we typically "seek" out to do, but mostly more-or-less
spontaneous! And so fun.
Overall, it was a great experience. The downside? I didn't bring my camera. I realize I've turned into a
mom that takes too many pictures--- but for me, adventures are more fun
with the camera in tow! I want to take a trip back to the park,just for the various photo opportunities. Hopefully, next time, the weather will be better AND we can meet up with some friends!
