A trip to a rainbow

Sometimes an adventure means reimagining the place you call home. Lately I've been tired of staring at the color of my bathroom. Ever since I saw the Great Barrier Reef murals in the Ladies restroom, near the Austraila exhibt, at the Columbus Zoo, I've been itching to recreate it in a small way at my house. I already had a lovely "fishy" shower curtain but the walls... They were yellow! How can my fish swim in a pale yellow sea? That just looked awful!

Do you have a room that could use a little pick me up? Is your imagination "swimming" with ideas that won't go away? All you need to make your dreams a reality is a gallon or so of paint (maybe some primer too) and a few brushes.

First go to your paint store and stand in front of the huge displays that house so many hues of the rainbow. For me, I'm always drawn to the sky blues. My husband favors the greens. So we pick out a few colors we both can stand and think about it a while. Then when I can't stand to wait any longer I gleefully go to the store and show the paint people my chosen color(s). They help me by mixing it all up and I drive them crazy by insisting I must have semi gloss even though they suggest a flat. (You can scrub gloss until the cows come home, a real must with my darlings!)

When you get home make everyone who is not helping go away! Tape, prime, clean, move or cover whatever you need to. Then have at it. Paint the dull and drab away. When you are done and it's dried, invite your family back from wherever they've been banished and show off what you've done. Saying "TAHDAH" is acceptable and encouraged, selling tickets is probably going a bit too far.

Making Jam is yummy!

It's raining off and on today and I really must do something with all those cherries I picked! So today is a happy jam day!

For the record, it only took 4 and 1/2 hours to pit the three gallons. I did it yesterday afternoon and put them in the freezer. That way the fruit wouldn't spoil if something intervened to keep me from cooking today. The secret to not being bored while you prepare your fruit is to pit/clean/chop while you do something else. In my case I watched two movies while I worked. (I'm betting that is why pioneer women worked together to do chores. They didn't have t.v. and hours working in the kitchen would have been very dull without a friend to talk with.)

The first thing to do is to decide if you want to make sugar-free jelly/jam or regular jelly. I suggest both, that way you can share with everyone you know regardless of their dietary needs. Buy Sure-Jell or another brand of fruit pectin and look inside the box to see what else you need. A few recipes call for lemon juice or unsweetened apple or white grape juice so check before you leave the store. It's really annoying to realize in the middle of the recipe that you don't have what you need. Unless you're swimming in sugar at your house, you'll probably need an extra bag. Some recipes call for 5 or more cups of sugar! (That's often a larger amount than the fruit you will add and also why it is so yummy!) Remember that you will need to buy a box of Sure-Jell that says it is for sugar-free recipes if you want to make that kind. The two kinds will not substitute for each other.

Many supermarkets have canning jars. If you have to make a special trip out, call around before you go. That way if you have your heart set on a specific size of jar you won't be chasing all over town to get them. When I make jam or jelly I usually use small jars, that way I have more to share. However, if you plan on keeping most of your product for yourself, then maybe larger jars are the way to go.

By now some of you are probably rolling your eyes and saying that it sounds like too much work and trouble. I'll admit it would be easier to buy a jar of jam or jelly at the store but nothing is quite like sharing a jar of something homemade with someone you care about. The gift is always well received. The product you will make is better than what you can buy in the store and it is very satisfying to know you can make something that tastes so good.

One final point, there are no mistakes possible. If for some reason your jelly doesn't set. Pack it in jars and process it anyway. Claim it is homemade fruit syurp! This "mistake" is great on ice cream, pancakes, angel food cake.... the list could go on and on.
If you'd like more information on making jams or jelly go to: http://www.kraftfoods.com/surejell/sj_secrets_cooked.html#before.

Have I mentioned that you can use fresh or frozen fruit purchased from a store? Give it a try. (Consider buying a jar lifter though, burns aren't part of the adventure I'm advocating.)

Art museums are not boring! (trust me)

Every so often I get the itch to go to the Columbus Museum of Art. I love beautiful and unusual things and where better to find both than at a museum of art? Some of you may already enjoy art museums and it is not to you I speak. (I am addressing the skeptics out there.) I propose that art museums are a wonderful place to visit and to take (well behaved) children or other dear friends. More to the point, I assert that the trip will be enjoyable for all.
First check out the website of your nearest museum. Some have a free day. The Columbus Museum of Art is free on Sundays. (Some special exhibits may cost extra if you wish to see them.) I suggest you go on the "free" day then, regardless of what happens you won't have spent a dime. (Make sure you consider where you will park, some places may cost several dollars.) For more information on the Columbus Museum of Art go to: http://www.columbusmuseum.org/about/general.php.
Before you go, propagandize your kids (or reluctant friends). Tell them that you are going to see very interesting things and while they are on the trip you are going to play a game. Help them understand that the museum is a quiet place so the game is played with whispers. In our family, we call this game, "Love it, Hate it". With younger children who might be tempted to tell others what you are doing, you might want to change the name to something more politically correct.
When you get to the museum, make sure to get a map if one is offered and check to see if there are any special kids exhibits. Our museum has an awesome one! Check it out at: http://www.columbusmuseum.org/learn/eye_spy/.
After seeing all the kid friendly exhibits don't leave, the fun is just beginning. Take your kids into a gallery and challenge them to find their favorite piece and the one they like the least. Make sure to ask why your kids (or other friends) feel the way they do, their answers may surprise you. Don't skip the modern art section as it is truly a delight. It is fun to muse just exactly why artists have chosen to model an old man's back or build a butterfly from discarded license plates. One time we even saw a video of someone screaming!
I have taken several different groups of children and adults to the museum and on each occasion it was a hit! My advice is to limit the time spent at the museum if you have bitty children and to buy a postcard on the way out. It is a wonderful and inexpensive way to remember where you've gone. If you want, buy an extra and send it to someone who'd enjoy getting mail.

Amish Country!

A few weeks ago my husband was traveling through Northeastern Ohio and came home with a brochure on Amish country and told us about some amazingly sharp cheddar cheese he had sampled. Our youngest daughter quickly snatched up the glossy paper and started dreaming. So when we announced we were headed for "Amish" country she was excited. The drive to Tuscarawas County was beautiful and full of roads that make your stomach "jump". Around every turn are farm animals just waiting for someone to holler "moo" or "neigh" in their direction!
Just before Sugarcreek ,we stopped at Walnut Creek Cheese. We bought a pound of the cheddar that was aged eight years, a box of Triscuits and some amazing BBQ jerky. The kids sampled some real ice cream and we took pictures in front of a parked buggy. The food is so good the Amish even shop there! I must confess the store screams "Little ol' ladies come and shop!" but, it was enjoyable just the same. Check out the store's website at:(http://www.walnutcreekcheese.com/default.asp)
When we got back in the car, we divied up the morsels one cheese covered cracker at a time. Everyone munched happily most of the way home. Even the summer storm that crashed and flashed around us did nothing to dampen the happiness of those inside the car. Memories...time together... that's really what makes life worthwhile. The cheese and M&M's are really just gravy.
For more information on the whole area try http://www.visitamishcountry.com/.

The essentials for a good road trip

Before you start on any adventure, think about what you might want to take to make the trip more enjoyable. As a child my mom always packed a towel, in case we found water to play in, and small plastic Tupperware juice cups, so she could buy a large Frosty and share it between my brothers and I. Looking back I remember many times we'd wade at a State park or play in a rest area drinking fountain (the kind with a spigot on the bottom) and my mom would always have a towel to dry us off. She never had to say "no" simply because we would end up wet.
Think hard before you leave, what would make you and your traveling companions happy? My husband and I always stop for gas and get M&M's and Combos. The kids know the drill. I sit in the front and dole out the goodies. Anyone who fights gets less and if they're really good we'll get them all drinks somewhere along the way. (I don't know where you are from but, here in Ohio one of our gas stations has giant drinks and Icees for 79cents all summer long. My kids love picking out their favorite "fluffy" drink or soda.)
Once you're good to go, take off to the "Open Road", as our youngest daughter says! Along the way spread some of your happiness with those you meet. Life is a wonderful adventure! P.S. The mom in me must remind you to, always buckle up! =-)

Go Pick Something!

Summer is not complete without a trip to pick some form of fruit. I remember fondly picking strawberries with my mom as a kid. As an adult I have had a hard time finding places that let patrons pick their berries and as an avid gardener I know why they hesitate. However, with the help of the Columbus Dispatch website you'll be able to have better luck that just calling random fruit sellers as I have in the past. Go to: http://audio.dispatch.com/flash/markets/markets.html to find places in Central Ohio where you can pick your own fruit! My mom found the article in the paper and gave it to me. I was very pleased and knew I had to share it with all of you!

I am very fortunate to have a very good friend who is extremely generous with her amazingly large cherry tree so I haven't been to a comercial farm this year. This morning we picked cherries for two hours and now I have three gallon bags of cherries! Just imagining all the yummy things we will make (cobbler, jelly, pie...) makes my mouth water. So raise your right hand and promise me you will consider your own trip. Whether it be to pick from a kind neighbor's tree or to tread lightly through a "pick your own" strawberry patch. JUST GO PICK SOMETHING! =-)

Giant Rubber Stamp Statue in Cleveland Ohio

Located on Lakeside Ave East, a stones throw from Lake Erie, my family and I made a trek to see the "World's Largest Rubber Stamp" one very cold winter's day. The camera died before our eldest could snap a picture of my husband and I together. I was very bummed, let my tragedy be a lesson to you. TAKE EXTRA BATTERIES! Cleveland has many other exciting offerings (The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and even a WWII sub) but nothing you see will be quite as out of the ordinary as the Giant "Free" stamp. Check out the full story at Roadside Attractions, one of my favorite sites. Their address is http://www.roadsideamerica.com/story/2183.

David Rogers' Big Bugs

Last summer, when visiting Inniswood Gardens in Westerville, Ohio, my family was pleasantly surprised by bugs. Yes, I did say bugs. Scattered about the crown jewel of the Columbus Metro Parks, were the most unusual giant bugs all created out of natural materials. The artist, David Rogers', sends his "little" critters out in the world to delight nature lovers everywhere. I am sure he is not disappointed as the sculptures bring people out in droves (or should I say "swarms"?)!.When we visited I had to wait until the vast crowds of impressionable toddlers passed by so I could take a "fun" picture. Unfortunately the bugs are gone, though Inniswood is still worth a visit. (Check out the park's web page at: http://www.metroparks.net/ParksInniswood.aspx.)

If you are fortunate to find yourself in North Framingham, Massachusetts, head on over to The New England Wild Flower Society's Garden in the Woods and see the Big Bugs! Hurry they will only be there until October 31, 2008! For the rest of you, I offer this video of the bugs from YouTube! Check it out at: http://ca.youtube.com/watch?v=uUMsoFcq4-g.

Field of Corn in Dublin, Ohio (Where's my butter?)

Grab your best friends and hit the open road! Pack a lunch and stop at a park. Take your pick Ohio has a million (alright a small exageration), somewhere along the way stop at the most amazing field of corn I have ever seen. Located at 4995 Rings Rd, Dublin, Ohio, it should set off your wacky radar! Stop and see it, take pictures. I bet you won't be the only one stopping and enjoying the craziness!

Giant baskets...kettle corn...friendly people!

This adventure has three stops. The first stop should be to the town of Dresden, Ohio. This town is home to the,"World's largest market basket". The basket is in the town square and is about the size of a small trailer. The town of Dresden is very quaint with lovely shops, churches, an amazing playground by the local school and even an abandoned lock from the Erie Canal. In warmer months, the organist from the local Catholic church has a family stand that sells the most delicious kettle corn! Make sure you get some. Check out the town's website at http://www.basketvillageusa.com/.
Next head to the world's only building shaped like a basket. Located on the outskirts of Newark, Ohio it is a must see! The building is huge and visitors are welcomed inside by friendly workers who give glossy pictures to all and a smile as well. My kids thought it was really neat. This place is really lovely so make sure to keep heathen children well in hand. Before you leave take a family photo on the steps to commemorate the stop. I'm betting one of the sweet volunteers would take the picture. Visit http://www.longaberger.com/homeOfficeFacts.aspx to check it out.
To round out the adventure head over to the Longaberger Homestead in Frazeysburg, Ohio and check out the giant Apple basket. This is also where the factory is located. I am not sure about how appropriate the tour is for children as we did not go on the tour. (Please find out before you promise your little ones.) This area has shops and other activities that are open most of the year.
For more info. Check out their web page at: http://www.longaberger.com/homestead.aspx.

Jungle Jims International Market

I suspect that most of us find ourselves in a food market at least once a week. However, unless you've been to Jungle Jim's International Market in Fairfield, Ohio (near Cincinnati), you have just been shopping for bread and eggs. This amazing six acre extravaganza has a singing soup can, Robin Hood and even a machine to buy smushed pennies (the sign of a real tourist stop!). Add in massive fish tanks, exotic foods (green bean Popsicles from Asia...ick?) and even a real bathroom disguised as a Port 'O potty! If you go on the weekends they have loads of samples to taste. If you desire a guided tour you must go during the week and call ahead. For me and mine, we just go... the store is simply amazing! You won't need an official tour to be impressed, amazed and entertained! Want to try rattlesnake? You might find some. Are you curious how many types of olives exist in the world? You might just find out! Make a day of it! There are plenty of places to eat in the surrounding strip. Take home a postcard, map and maybe even one of those crazy smushed pennies! I've yet to take anyone who wasn't delighted! For more info check out their website at: http://www.junglejims.com/attractions/jungle_jims_attractions.asp.

Sleep in a Tepee!

Last summer some girls and I went to Mammoth Cave. The cave was amazing and you must go! (I mean it... go to the National parks web page and buy some tickets! http://www.nps.gov/maca/) When you go make sure to sleep at Wigwam #2 in Cave City Kentucky! My best buddies and I had a great time. The rooms are round and ice cold! The air conditioning really will freeze you out! The rooms are simple with furniture dating back to the 30's and the rates are comparable to a "normal" (boring) hotel room. Check out their website at http://www.wigwamvillage.com/. Make sure to buy your own "wigwam" from the Gift Tepee, they will even paint your tepee number on it! Behind the ring of wigwams is a beautiful field that had horses. There is also a playground, picnic tables and lots of lawn chairs to sit and watch the sunset. I know you'll have fun.

Washboard Factory! (I'm not kidding)

Every week my kids and I are off on an adventure. We look for places that welcome kids and are friendly. Last week we went to the Columbus Washboard Factory in Logan, Ohio. The factory is the only existing washboard factory in the United States of America! Believe it or not there are still people who do their laundry by hand in the traditional way. Others use the boards for decoration or to play music. Every Father's day weekend the town of Logan sponsors a Washboard festival where you can embrace all that the washboard has to offer. My kids loved the tour, which was free. They also enjoyed the blacksmith shop that is attached to the factory and makes really lovely functional objects as well as beautiful art worthy of a museum. (They have this lovely praying mantis that is unbelievable!) Everyone was friendly, you and yours would love it! Make sure to take a picture with the "World's Largest Washboard" located on the side of the building. While you are in the area make sure to stop at one of Ohio's amazing parks! Have a picnic and maybe stop for a swim at Lake Logan. Check out Columbus Washboard Factory at http://www.columbuswashboard.com/.

Giant Campbell's Soup Can!

Alright, I must admit that this was a bit crazy but I really do like giant statues, blocks of cheese... you get the idea! The drive to Napoleon Ohio was lovely and peaceful! The giant can was impressive although you'll have to park on the curb and climb over a ditch to take a picture. The Campbell's Soup people really ought to give some thought to milking their roadside attraction. I'd love to have had a postcard! I suggest you check this out on a road trip that includes other stops in the area. That way the people you are with will only believe you are slightly crazy. =-) The address to Mapquest is 12772 State Route 110, Napoleon, OH

See how Peanut Butter is Made!

If you have a passion for roasted nuts and would delight in learning exactly why your favorite cashews are costing you a fortune, then you simply must visit the Krema Nut Company in Columbus, Ohio! This tour is for adults 21 and older for insurance reasons although everyone is welcome in the store. Beyond the expected roasted nuts and peanut butter, you also will have the opportunity to purchase PB&J sandwiches and even ice cream! My husband and I went on the tour and we thought it was very interesting. The people in the factory are very friendly. To have a tour you must have 15 people, however if you don't have 14 friends to accompany you, do not despair. Call the Krema Nut people, they will add you to an existing tour if they have room. I called the very same day that I was wanting to come and was happily added to a tour! The highlight of the tour for me was watching a video that Mr. Rogers made when he came to the factory years ago. I guess that dates me but, trust me. The trip is well worth it! For more information go to the Krema Nut Company website at http://www.krema.com/ or call them at(800) 222-4132. The factory is located at 1000 West Goodale BoulevardColumbus, Ohio 43212.

Anthony Thomas Factory tours!

I love seeing how things are made! One great place to visit that is free and fun for the entire family is the Anthony Thomas Candy factory in Columbus, Ohio. Every Tuesday and Thursday from 9:30-2:30 the nice people at the Candy factory give tours. The tours start in the Gift Shop (pretty smart) every half hour or so. The bulk of the tour is conducted from an enclosed catwalk above the factory floor. You can see everything! Depending on the day, you may see candy bars wrapped, boxes of chocolates packed or even fudge being made. You will always see chocolate being formed into something delicious! This tour is appropriate for all ages and is handicap assessable. Call (877) 226-3921 for more information on tours. Groups of more than ten need a reservation. The factory is located at 1777 Arlingate Lane, Columbus, Ohio, 43228. Check out their web page at http://www.anthony-thomas.com/Tour.html.