I realized yesterday that one of the most fun things to do on a day in the woods is have a picnic.

OK, so that's an easy one to figure out.

But, we are always hauling around food, snacking on the go, on the move. Stopping to actually sit down and have a formal, yet informal, meal is some very quality family time.

Call me silly that it took seven hours on the trail with two groups of kiddos for me to clue in. But, as the tiny person and I sat in the back of the truck talking about everything we'd seen that morning snacking down on ham, raspberries and fresh peas from Pattison Farms, I had a brief moment of enlightenment.

Slowing down once in a while is a good choice.

It was the only choice yesterday, as our NeighbourWood Walks out at Oyster River Nature Park were all about stopping and checking every inch of this cool, kid-friendly forest out.

The big event was the pretty much non-stop tree climbing that lead to discoveries of future maple trees, lots of cool spiders, caterpillars and - of course - some mega huckleberry eating.

It's always amazing to see how the kids in each group begin to understand and really interact with each other, getting to know what everyone is interested in and sharing and what is really fun.

We had some guests and a couple new walkers too, which is awesome to see that so many people are having a chance to take part in the walks.

The crew is out at Ship's Point in Fanny Bay next week. Thanks for reminding me Dana, I had my dates totally confused.

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On to today's post:

I had a different walk ready to post today. But, we wandered out to Oyster River Nature Park in Black Creek yesterday in preparation for this week's NeighbourWood Walk and, with the sound of giggles coming from kiddos playing in the river, the gorgeous sunshine and absolute coolness of this trail, I figured today was the perfect time to share this gem.

Tucked away on a Black Creek back road, Oyster River Nature Park is a spot you don't find unless you're looking for it. But, don't think that means your walk in the woods will be a solitary one. Locals and tourists who enjoy Summer breaks perched in an inner tube just down from their oceanfront cabins have long known about this hidden gem.

It's the perfect spot for families for so many reasons. But, let's start with getting there. Driving up the Old Island Highway toward Campbell River, you turn right on the road at the Oyster River Discovery Foods and follow it back past the grocery store to the left, where the parking lot and trail head are visible. You may want to stop at the store or make a coffee/pizza run at the cafe there. I love that we can stock up right near the trail head. It makes life so much easier (but, don't expect a public restroom).

There's a latrine at the beginning of the trail and I highly recommend a potty stop before heading out on the trail as there is A LOT to explore here and that's it in the bathroom universe. Expect to have to explain the "bathroom art" as our daughter deemed the rather crude graffiti inside the toilet, though.

Then, head out down the Ferguson Trail (to the left) to begin your adventure.

We've done a lot of hiking in our lives, and forests often blend together in terms of look and feel. But Ken, who is the toughest critic in terms of interestingness, found every inch of this second-growth ecosystem really amazing.

Bordered on one side by UBC Farmland offering gorgeous country vistas and the Oyster River's confluence with the Georgia Straight on the other, the diversity of ground cover, the dichotomy of farm versus water as well as amazing giant black cottonwoods and grand firs make for some great sights.

Following Ferguson Trail, you'll end up wandering along Ridge Trail a bit and then spot a gorgeous new wooden bridge to the right that now connects trails that had never linked up until recently, making for a great, shorter loop for tiny legs.

If you are up for a longer adventure, though, skip the bridge and keep heading out to the ocean on the trail you were on, walking along the barbed-wire fence line between you and UBC Farmland, finally getting to Jack Hames Trail.

From jumping giant roots to exploring decaying tree stumps, there is so much here for kiddos to discover in the forest. The farther you get along this trail, the less stroller friendly it becomes. So, if you are planning to do this portion of the walk, backpacks are a good trade off.

There are some narrow parts here and some spots where erosion makes for some danger. So, be alert and keep the kiddos toward the inside of the trail a bit. Once you hit the Jack Hames Trail, you'll emerge quickly into sunshine and can then walk along the waterfront all the way to Salmon Point. This portion of the walk is really lovely and, at low tide, is great fun for the kiddos to get out on the beach a bit for some cooling off. The mouth of the Oyster River can be a bit tricky in terms of currents. So, make sure to take a bit of caution or stick a foot in there to check how heavy the pull is before letting the kids go for it.

This is where lunch comes in handy.

On the return trip, head back along the trail you came in on and turn to the left to cross the bridge talked about earlier and finish up along the Fisherman's Trail.

There is some really interesting ground cover along this portion of the trail that lets the setting every 100 yards or so change rather noticeably and, as it's along the river including a portion of shallow rapids, you'll be sure to catch a glimpse of families staying at cabins across the way floating in the water and splashing.

Once you pop out onto the wider trail from here you want to turn left and head back to the parking area.

We did a bit of the ocean walk yesterday and ended up out there a solid two hours. The shorter route is about an hour.

This nature park was probably one of the most surprisingly diverse we've walked in a while, and the tiny person totally dug a lengthy "Queen of the Elves" adventure that took up most of our morning and imagination.

We even had a fun lesson in grass chewing, always a hit with the preschool crowd.

It's tick season. So, hats and pants tucked into socks are a solid precaution. Also, bring lots of water as the sun is draining, even with the lovely ocean breeze to keep things balmy.

You can download the Oyster River Map (PDF will download if you click the link) courtesy of the Comox Valley Regional District

I'm so excited to take the NeighbourWood Walk crew out here for some serious exploration on Wednesday.

Hope you are enjoying your Sunday and another gorgeous Summer weekend.

There is a perfection to kids in nature.

Those times when they can soak themselves down, run around barefoot and discover unbelievable sorts of wonders - together - force us as adults to slow down a bit, let a few things go, and just let them be for a while.

We find ourselves standing back and reminiscing about how much fun we had on the beach, in the forest, in our backyard as kiddos and comfort each other with a hand on a shoulder for us all understanding at the exact same moment that we have to let our kids discover the world for themselves.

That was most definitely the vibe yesterday out at Pt. Holmes, where both NeighbourWood Walk groups (about 50 kiddos and their parents) got out on the beach during a very low tide to check out one of the natural gems of the Valley - the sea star (and so many other creature) filled Pt. Holmes "Reef."

Whether it meets the true definition of a reef or not is debatable. But, what we all found together was a spot where discovery is inevitable and families even got to be a bit surprised as more than a few who came out learned about the rocky outcropping for the first time yesterday.

After a seriously fun morning checking out the cabillion sea stars, wondering if we would ever find sea cucumbers and finding out how surefooted we all were on the sea weed, Ken had the astute observation of the day.

"Has there ever been an argument or a fight between kids at the walks?" he asked.

I had to think for a long while.

Nope.

In fact, I've had several moms tell me that, since their kiddos started with the walks, the difference in them is amazing.

They are more gentle, less grumpy, excited about getting outside and focusing better all over the place.

Nature is just like that. It seems that Richard Louv's observation that nature evokes humility in people is spot on.

Good for the brain, the body and the heart.

Next week, we're at Oyster River Nature Park. I'm really looking forward to it.

Popsicle is a funny calf.

Seriously, this 5-week-old wonder has a wicked sense of humor, having taken to chasing the other barnyard animals around and herding them for the farm hands on a whim.

Cattle aren't typically the rounding-up sort of kind, which makes him even funnier in a charming sort of way.

In fact, it appears that Popsicle fancies himself a sheep - in honour of his best pal Annie (a sheep) who I am starting to suspect has talked him into believing they are not so different.

When he's not at Annie's beckon call, Popsicle spends a fair bit of time grinning and bolting around, proving his sensibility is one of silliness.

Impetuous youth:)

He, Annie, Teddy the donkey (who is quite docile, I promise Aryo) and the crew of crazy goats are joined this week by a new rooster and the extra, super mega cuteness of two sweet ducklings.

All of this soft cuddliness left me with some serious need to do super cute barnyard crafting. So, the tiny person and I rehashed some oldie-but-goodies pulled out of the Easter craft closet.

Here's what we came up with:

THE TOILET PAPER ROLL SHEEP

This silly, fun creature made from recyclable goodness comes from Kaboose.com.

Can there be a better use for an old toilet paper roll?:)

Here's what you need:

* TP rolls
* A bag of white cotton balls or pompoms
* Craft glue (or hot glue for the eyes with kiddos under 3)
* Google eyes (two per lamb)
* Black felt
* black or brown pipe cleaners
* Hole punch
* Scissors

Directions:

1. Take one pipe cleaner. Cut it into even thirds. Then, take the hole punch and punch four holes in one end of the tube, two side-by-side in front and two of the same in back, to make holes for the legs. Take two of the pipe cleaner thirds. Thread one through the front and one through the back to make the legs. (It's not the sturdiest craft. But, he does stand up if you work it a little)
2. Take the black felt and cut a square that will fit over one end of the tube. Put glue around the edge of that end and stick the felt on. Trim around the edges of the felt to get more of a circle shape or leave it as is for a lamb with a bit of character.
3. Take the TP roll, cottton balls and glue. Then, start gluing the cotton balls all over the roll, making sure to complete a ring around the front where you put the felt to frame his face.
4. Glue the google eyes on.

There you have it.

An homage to Annie.

BUNNIES AND CHICKS

Here's what you need:

* 1 cardboard egg carton cut up into individual egg cups (leave the backs and the sides on so that you have a place to attach ribbon)
* Cotton balls or pompoms in pink, white, yellow or whatever colour sounds fun (enough for two on each creature) plus little ones for the bunny's nose and tail.
* Ribbon in Spring colours (I used 7 to 10 inches on each side of the cup to tie together. So, it's a fair bit of ribbon. Thrifting is a great way to score this)
* Google eyes (two per creature)
* A hole punch
* Craft Glue (a hot glue gun works best for attaching the eyes if you are making these for a toddler or preschooler since they are a choking hazard and you want them attached as solidly as possible. Take extra caution using the glue gun with a toddler or preschooler around.)
* Craft paper for bunny ears and the chick's beak.
* Scissors

Directions:

1. Cut egg carton up into individual cups.
2. Take the hole punch and punch a hole in the cardboard on either side of cup so that you have two to put ribbon through for hanging.
3. Cut ribbon into 7 to 10-inch strips. Take two strips. Tie one through each hole (I stuck it through the bottom, knotted it and then pulled it tight). Then, tie them together at the top.
4. Take two big cotton balls/pompoms and glue the first one to the bottom of the cup. The second to the top of the first one.
5. Take two google eyes. Glue them on.
6. Grab the craft paper (I used colourful scrapbooking paper for some added colour and design) and cut out a set of ears for the bunny or a diamond to fold over for the chick's beak. When Gluing the bunny ears on, I recommend also gluing them to the back of the cup if you can for a bit more stability. Glue everything on.
7. Take two small pompoms and glue one on the bunny face for a nose and one on the back of the cup for a tail.

That's it.

Popsicle and his pals are out at the Hands-On Farm over at The Filberg in Comox from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily this Summer. Admission is $2 for folks over age 5 and $1 for kiddos under 5. To get to The Filberg from Courtenay, take the 17th Street bridge and make a right onto the dyke road. Follow it all the way through Comox until you come to the bend in the road where there is a sign marking The Filberg. The petting farm is just a bit of a walk inside the first entrance after the sign.

Check out a whole Summer of Popsicle, his pals and pictures of Friends at the Farm HERE

It's about 8:45 a.m. as I sit down to write this post.

As a general rule, I write the night before. Mornings are nuts around here and throwing blogging into that mix is generally a stress of the unnecessary kind. But, today, it's entirely beautiful.

That's totally because I got out of bed about five minutes ago - literally a luxurious act of God that made me wonder if everyone in the house was OK. (mommy brain. Sleeping in=something must be wrong:)) as I generally roll out of bed around 6 a.m. when the tiny person belts out "Mommy, I'm awake."

What this all means is that I slept 11 hours last night...it's hard to write when you're snoozing away...after a crazy fun Wednesday walking the trails and beaches of MacDonald Wood Nature Park in Comox with families from around the Valley.

CVK's Summer NeighbourWood Walk Series kicked off yesterday, with Mother Nature cooperating fantastically.

With 60 kiddos and their parents getting together over the span of five hours, it was AMAZING to see families who'd had so much fun in the Spring mixing with new moms and dads (lots of dads, wahoo) with their kiddos jumping in.

It was a perfect day for some major snail hunting, seaweed throwing and berry eating (the salmon berries were a serious highlight) and I really dug the diversity of the groups as the walks grow.

These first couple of walks each session are all about getting to know each other, which kiddos are generally very good at, especially when mud, dirt and nature are involved.

I particularly loved seeing how many moms AND dads came out for the walk, making it into fun, family time. Dads have a different way of plugging kiddos into nature - lots of digging in the dirt, wading deep into the tide pools and running (literally) the trails until giggling and silliness is the norm.

Next week, we are combining the morning and afternoon crews (10:30 a.m.) for a trip to the reef out at Pt. Holmes. I'm so excited because discovering this spot at low tide pretty much sold us on the coolness of the Valley.

Just think starfish, 24-7.

Thanks everybody for making the first Summer walk so great!

Our daughter has taken to sharing, with anyone who might even mildly be interested, her deep and abiding love for Popsicle.

At the Hands-On Farm, if you are new or she isn't quite sure you're aware of the true identity of the calf running around, she will formally introduce you.

On Sunday, she did just that with a group of older kiddos who'd been there a bit longer than we had but looked as if this was their first meeting with the barnyard bovine.

"This is my friend Popsicle," our daughter told the group. "Hello to Popsicle. These are kids who came to see you."

The little girl in the crowd was unimpressed with someone far smaller in stature having such pertinent details, stomping off indignantly to check our daughter's information with the farm hand.

When Jill confirmed that the calf was Popsicle for sure and that our daughter had named him, the girl shooed her away, ran back to Popsicle and proceeded to hang out for the better half of an hour.

She grew quite attached to our Farm Friend and, at one point, asked a stranger nearby what would happen to Popsicle when he got bigger. The man had one word for her, "Dinner."

While I wasn't quite sure that was the most tactful way to break the news to an 8-year-old that the sweet calf in front of her might end up a steak some day, it did strike me that a trip to the farm is a perfect time to talk about eating local food - something we work very hard at doing for lots of reasons.

But, talking about sustainability, environmental impact, cost and supporting local business is enough to make any tiny person's eyes glaze over (mine too depending on the day). So, how do we plug our kids in to thinking local?

Hanging out on a working farm might just be the answer.

During the Summer, one of the coolest and most interesting things the tiny person and I do on a regular basis is make the rounds of local farms that open their doors to the public. You'd be amazed what a phone call or a chat at the CV Farmer's Market can turn up in terms of folks letting you come out and learn about food and the absolute wonderment picking eggs out of the nest, checking out veggies as they are sprouting or picking beans off of the vine brings out in tiny people.

We're a bit brazen around our house. I'd call up Santa Claus for a tour of the North Pole if I could find his number. But, I know that isn't everyone's speed.

There are a few farms, though, that happily open their doors for you to buy veggies and meat right at the farm or bring the kiddos out and give them a taste of what's for dinner like:

- Seaview Game Farm in Merville. One of my favourite farms in the Valley. Call ahead for a tour of the greenhouses and excellent petting farm.

- Nature's Way Farm on Darcy Road is a great place to get organic blueberries and salad greens. Their farm store is AMAZING and staff is wonderful. Call ahead to ask about seeing more of the farm.

- Pattison Farms off the Old Island Highway in Black Creek has an EXCELLENT farm stand, full of organic produce grown right there on the farm. Buying direct from farm stands is a great way for kids to see how things work - and even a bit more down home and direct than the market. I really dig this farm and we stop there to stock up on our way to and from the beach all Summer long.

- ASH Berry Farm in Royston is a FANTASTIC working farm that the McClellan family makes very accessible to families. While you can go out berry picking, there are also other crops as well as pigs and a whole farm of interestingness. They are VERY busy right now. So, if you are more into the farm than the berries, call ahead to see what they can show you.

- CVK Mom Marieke just dropped me a note about their farm. DeeKayTee Ranch. Wow, I can't wait to go out there and pick up some delicious meat as well as check out the farm. Thanks Marieke!

- I am a BIG fan of Seiferts Farm Market on Knight Road in Comox. EVERYONE there is really great to talk with and rarely will you get an eyeball for stepping out of the parking lot and right out into the fields to check out the pumpkins in process and the corn popping up. Several farmers out there are more than happy to show you how things work. So, a conversation with the farm hands while you are out stocking up on veggies could quickly lead into an interesting afternoon learning about potatoes or other goodness that grows locally. Seiferts is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. every day and is a fun way to vegetable shop any time.

These are just a few ideas to get you started. Hit the Farmers Market on Wednesdays (Simms Park) and Saturdays (CV Exhibition Grounds) and discover farm goodness all over the place too...and more than likely some farmers:)

Here's a bit of a Popsicle update for all of you Hands-On Farm fans (open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily at The Filberg in Comox):

The forests of Fanny Bay are enchanted.

A walk along the trails near Ships Point reveal dichotomy, controversy, community and absolute beauty.

Tucked away, just past trail heads hidden by a bit of overgrowth, is at least a Sunday morning's worth of exploring art and nature - separately or together depending on what suits you.

CVK mom Melanie Perkins invited us out to experience Fanny Bay for ourselves recently and this slice of the Comox Valley is now one of our favourite locales.

We started our walk at the end of Bates Road (to get there take the Old Island Highway, make a left on Ships Point Road, a left on Little Way and then a left on Bates). It's a quiet spot, an unassuming dead-end road. To the right, there's a trail head and you enter into a world of art, thought provoking and controversial to say the least as we found ourselves at the beginning of Valley sculpture artist George Sawchuk's Enchanted Forest.

Named the first Honorary Valley Treasure by the Comox Valley Community Arts Council, Sawchuk is influenced deeply by his socialist upbringing and early life as an itinerant worker.

A walk through the forest around his house reveals Sawchuk's sensibility through his art which deals controversially but not graphically with religion, politics, war and economics.

For young kids it's a cool exploration of found objects and hidden treasures. With older kids, an opportunity to launch discussions and field questions about a whole range of social issues. Adults will discover provocative pieces of art.

You can wander for a few minutes, or a few hours.

Nearby, as you step out of the forest and follow the trail down to the beach, you discover a different sort of enchantment as you wander along what becomes the Fanny Bay Conservation Trail.

If Sawchuk's sensibility isn't your speed or you are looking for a weekend adventure that is more about the natural world rather than the nature of society, you can start this walk at the trail head on Tozer Road. To get there you just head past Bates on Ships Point Road until you get to Tozer, where you make a left and park at the end.

From there, you pick up The Cowie Trail , which leads you out onto a dyke path dividing absolutely breathtaking marshland from the mudflats which, when the tide is out, make for excellent tide pooling and mud fighting (see the top photo).

Walking a bit farther down the trail, there is a tower that you can climb for a tremendous view of the tidal flats and the marsh. Bring your binoculars and camera as it is also a spectacular location for spotting the birds hanging out including Bewick's Wren, Chestnut-backed Chickadees and a variety of Warbler as well as Kingfisher, Eagles, Heron and Killdeer.

I'm told that late Summer and early Fall bring Seals with pups to the bay (don't get too close), while Chum and Coho Salmon run in the streams near the tower in the mid- and late Fall. Can't wait to head back out there and see it for ourselves.

At low tide, you can walk all the way around the point and connect up with the short trail at Ships Point Park, making a very full day out of this adventure - well worth the 23km drive south of town.

Bring extra clothes, lots of water and a picnic lunch as you will, most definitely, not want to leave.

Mother Nature has not been kind in the U-Pick universe this year.

The whole June-uary weather event means that berry ripening and picking is well behind schedule. But, the good news is that berry farms are starting to open and local fruity yumminess will be available for early risers for the next few months in one form or another.

Strawberries are always the first berries of the season around the Valley and local strawberry farmers contending with the weather are finding it very slow going this season.

Our favourite spot for picking is ASH Berry Farm on Royston Road. Owners Don and Louisa McClellan have turned this great small farm into a spray-free berry haven. It's the only spray-free strawberry U-Pick I know of in the Valley, which may explain why anyone but the earliest of risers has been out of luck for the last 10 days or so since their patch opened.

If you are craving digging in for your own local strawberries, plan ahead to hit the patch at 8 a.m. one morning as the berries have been slow to ripen as well. U-Pick is great fun for the whole family and a super way to stock up for the berry off season.

The chilly late Spring may mean that a bunch of us are out of luck in the strawberry universe. But, next on the list of ripening goodness are raspberries. ASH berry also has U-Pick raspberries, which look to be ready for picking by mid-July if these warm temps hold out. There are several other U-Pick spots around the area. We picked at Ashprington Farms out on the Old Island Highway last year and I haven't checked to see if their raspberries are nearing the picking point.

Right smack in the middle of it all come my very favourite berries - the blue kind. Blueberries are ready for picking by late July. You can get some amazing organic blueberries out at Pattison Farms on the Old Island Highway in Black Creek and Natures Way Farm at 4905 Darcy Road off of Condensory Road in Courtenay. But, the only place I know of to U-Pick is Blue Haven Farm at Anderton Road and Idiens Way in Comox.

Blackberries and gooseberries also are in season soon. We have plenty of picking spots for these wild gems. But, I'm not aware of any U-Pick lots for them. There's a whole other post on wild berry picking in there that I'll get going on.

A few berry tips:

- Call ahead and see what the berries are like for the day. That way you don't get out to a patch and discover that the current batch isn't quite so pickable.

Whoa, my mouth is watering just thinking about fresh berry this and fresh berry that. Not to mention, they are great ways to combat Summer allergies and keep your immune system pumped up (check out Dr. Amy Wells post on that HERE)

Go forth and pick:)

So here's the deal, I am providing one more installment for tonight, then I am considering myself officially on vaca til after I get back from blowing shit up for the holidays which will be early next week (providing I can still type if I am missing a finger or two of course.)

Also, per another request, I made the pictures a little bigger this go around, although I will tell you that I was in and out of these spots in like 2 minutes flat, so I didn't spend a lot of time setting up cool "artistic" shots. The point is to give a visual flavor to go along with the description, and to give Jell yet another reason for a costume change... as if she needed one.

#21 Paradise Blanket

Every guy should own a paradise blanket. It is like having a date in a box, where you can instantly rez at various altitudes any of a number of prepared scenic backdrops. You typically have to have 100 - 200 prims available for the sets. The beauty of these things is that if you plan ahead, you can go position dancing, sex, and/or cuddle balls in all the right spots to take an average backdrop and make it a role play heaven! The balls will still be right where you left them (provided you take the blanket back up to that same elevation). I linked here the free paradise blanket that can be found in Midnight Reflections, which is a great place to go try out all the various options, and then GO BUY ONE! I can't even begin to describe the fun you can have with the office, hotel, beach, or even dungeon themed sets.

#22 Tunnel of Light

Another great addition by the Rezzable team, where you can take a 6.5 minute ride in a teacup through a visually captivating light show which was designed to showcase some of the effects in the Windlight viewer rollout. There is a new neon club addition, which was fun to look at, but would seriously hurt my head if I stayed for more than 10 minutes at a time.

#23 Dragon Moon Resort

Although we couldn't track down the couple inner tubes which used to be a fav, this resort still provides lots of fun options for a date. You can hang out on the beach, ride one of the free provided jet skis, explore the island, go ice skating, and even snorkel all in the same great sim. Also feel free to bust out your dragon avi, because you are likely to see quite a few dragons carousing around.

#24 Castle Wars!

This one is always one of our personal fav's, from the mind of RacerX. Basically you rez a catapult and each try to take out the other person('s) castle. Once all the pieces of your castle are taken out, you are out of the game. Very fun to play!

#25 Carnival of Doom

If you are just a little bit sick and or twisted and enjoy figuring out how many ways you can kill yourself off at an old abandoned amusement park, then this is a great date option! This one is actually one of my favorite sims, and inspired one of our machinima projects which you can view here if you are interested.

#26 Maximillion Kleene

I wasn't able to slurl this one, since Max performs at a variety of places all across the grid, but all you have to do is search out his name under the event listings for live performers. There are a variety of really good live acts out there to choose from (although I recommend scouting out the band/performer at least once before inviting a date,) but Max is a great one, and comes with my personal stamp of approval.

#27 Heavenly Rose Garden

This particular one does not come highly recommended, but will do if you are in a bind (like say trying to come up with 50 first date locations.) This sim is basically a conglomeration of a bunch of different little scenes with pose balls set up for pictures. You might have a waterfall right next to a turkish tent, but as long as you work your camera angles you can still get some good shots with this sim, and if you are still relatively noobish be sort of impressed... lol. kk moving on.

#28 Butterfly Garden at Blue Note Jazz Club

The Blue Note Jazz Club is a pretty good jazz club, but one of the benefits they have is that they have a very nicely decorated garden area next to the club, which provides a nice scenic place to take a date. In particular, they have this little butterfly garden area set up with a slow dance ball in it to make for a scenic backdrop.

#29 Midnight Reflections

Not only does Midnight Reflections provide several free Paradise Blankets, but you can also explore the grounds for many scenic spots to take a date. You really can't ever go wrong on a Complete Me pillow from Pillow Talk by Sandy Clymer, but there are also caves you can explore with running water, and treehouses complete with sex gen rugs in many of them.

#30 Chi

Sure we know the owners of this sim quite well, but that doesn't stop it from being one of the most beautiful sims in SL. You can do Tai Chi, surf, or just explore the beautiful landscape surrounding the active volcano. Just whatever you do, keep an eye on that llama!

1) Yes I am posting this on both Freestate and AWNM, because it is a lot of work, and I figured I would provide it for the largest audience as possible. I won't do that very often, but I reserve the right to do it at times, so I apologize if you follow both blogs for the repeat.

2) I did link the title of each pic with a slurl so you can tp directly to the location to try it out. It sort of blends into the overall color scheme, and I did get a question about slurls.

3) I promised to try to do 10 a day, so that is still the plan but I will be on vacation from Friday through Sunday this week, so that might get in the way, but you just have to deal! :)

Alrighty then as promised here is round two of the 50 first dates exercise.

#11 Innisfree Romantic Park

This is actually a great park with a pool, dancing area, and lots of special couple sit options that are scattered throughout the build. It is very scenic and has trails that you can skate or bike to go along with the fun atmosphere.

#12 Art in the Park

This one is.... drumroll please.... art in the park. duh! lol You can roam the sidewalks and see different exhibits by various artists. I think that many of the pieces are for sale, including a few limited editions. Not the best art I have seen in SL, but is still a fun diversion, and provides a great way to discuss what you like/don't like about various pieces.

#13 Avilion Courtyard Area

If you go to Avilion and only spend time in the ballroom, then you are missing out on some great places to hang out. This is one of them, which is around the castle to the side just beyond the hedge maze. (The hedge maze itself might get its own slot, if I have trouble towards the end hitting 50.. haha!) There are several scenic dancing spots around the campfire or in the gazebo overlooking the waterfalls. Also, be sure to have your particles on so you can enjoy the prettiful light show.

#14 Scoutlounge Beach Club

If you are in the mood for a club experience, why not combine it with a beautiful beachfront build (my pic doesn't do it justice). The Scoutlounge plays some great house music, but you will want to check the event listings, because most of the shows are geared around European time zones. Even if there is no event going, the stream is usually pretty good, and it provides a nice spot to kick back and relax.

#15 La Reve

A beautifully landscaped sim with incredible sculptures and lighting effects. Where else can you sail around some incredible visuals on a bed? Unfortunately the bed isn't sex gen, and you can't sit in a couple's cuddle position, but it is still a great place to take a date and go explore.

#16 Moana'Ina Beach @ Weather Island

Surf's up with some MONSTER waves at this great sim sponsored by the Weather Channel. There are free surf boards you can use, and lots of waves to start working on your skills. Before long you can join the SLSA and start entering some real surfing competitions.

#17 Apollo Gardens

Unless you are brand new to SL, I would find it hard to believe that you haven't been to Apollo Gardens at some point, as it is one of the oldest most beautifully landscaped sims. It provides a lot of room to go exploring, as well as many couple sits throughout the park. The one downside to this place, is that it IS so well known, that almost every time I go here (including the 5 minutes to take this pic) someone ends up tp'ing in right on top of you because they logged out in your spot. So keep in mind that there is a good chance of a cock block at any point when using this sim.

#18 VRR Virtual Reality Room

I was tempted to link to Wrath's personal one, but thought that might get ME reported by HIM, and then blog wars, and all kinds of in-fighting and battles. Well okay, I really was too lazy to climb all those trees to find the link. Anyways, this is an awesome fun thing to do where you can sit in a 360 degree environment and pick RL scenic pictures to surround yourself with. I think this is really fun, and you can rez dance balls into the center of it, which makes for some nice pics and a little different take on an otherwise ordinary dancing experience - throw in a personal music stream and your love's favorite song, and SCORE! :)

#19 ING Renault F1 Go-carts

This is a really fun place to ride go-carts, and to learn more about F1 racing. I will warn you though, that it DOES require you to wear a helmet to race, and it DOES take off your hair, so you are both baldies under those helmets. You can however custom design your own helmet with your personal design and color scheme which is kinda fun (but she will still bitch that it takes her hair off, so best not to do as a first date, but maybe one down the road after you have already won her over.)

#20 Avilion Waterfall Skyboxes

Yet another quiet little spot taken from the Avilion sim with the castle in the distance. On the other side of the river, across from the dancing gazebo, there are actually skyboxes built high up into the waterfalls, which you can teleport up to from the wooden walkway below. They even show when they are occupied, so it should cut down on people dropping in on you. Typically they each have a dance ball, and some cuddle options. They make for a great place for those long quiet talks that go deep into the night.

1)  Yes I am posting this on both Freestate and AWNM, because it is a lot of work, and I figured I would provide it for the largest audience as possible.   I won't do that very often, but I reserve the right to do it at times, so I apologize if you follow both blogs for the repeat.

2)  I did link the title of each pic with a slurl so you can tp directly to the location to try it out.   It sort of blends into the overall color scheme, and I did get a question about slurls.

3)  I promised to try to do 10 a day, so that is still the plan but I will be on vacation from Friday through Sunday this week, so that might get in the way, but you just have to deal!   :)

Alrighty then as promised here is round two of the 50 first dates exercise.

#11 Innisfree Romantic Park

This is actually a great park with a pool, dancing area, and lots of special couple sit options that are scattered throughout the build.   It is very scenic and has trails that you can skate or bike to go along with the fun atmosphere.

#12 Art in the Park

This one is.... drumroll please.... art in the park.  duh!  lol    You can roam the sidewalks and see different exhibits by various artists.  I think that many of the pieces are for sale, including a few limited editions.   Not the best art I have seen in SL, but is still a fun diversion, and provides a great way to discuss what you like/don't like about various pieces.

#13  Avilion Courtyard Area

If you go to Avilion and only spend time in the ballroom, then you are missing out on some great places to hang out.   This is one of them, which is around the castle to the side just beyond the hedge maze.   (The hedge maze itself might get its own slot, if I have trouble towards the end hitting 50.. haha!)  There are several scenic dancing spots around the campfire or in the gazebo overlooking the waterfalls.   Also, be sure to have your particles on so you can enjoy the prettiful light show.

#14  Scoutlounge Beach Club

If you are in the mood for a club experience, why not combine it with a beautiful beachfront build (my pic doesn't do it justice).   The Scoutlounge plays some great house music, but you will want to check the event listings, because most of the shows are geared around European time zones.   Even if there is no event going, the stream is usually pretty good, and it provides a nice spot to kick back and relax.

#15 La Reve

A beautifully landscaped sim with incredible sculptures and lighting effects.   Where else can you sail around some incredible visuals on a bed?   Unfortunately the bed isn't sex gen, and you can't sit in a couple's cuddle position, but it is still a great place to take a date and go explore.

#16 Moana'Ina Beach @ Weather Island

Surf's up with some MONSTER waves at this great sim sponsored by the Weather Channel.   There are free surf boards you can use, and lots of waves to start working on your skills.   Before long you can join the SLSA and start entering some real surfing competitions.

#17 Apollo Gardens

Unless you are brand new to SL, I would find it hard to believe that you haven't been to Apollo Gardens at some point, as it is one of the oldest most beautifully landscaped sims.   It provides a lot of room to go exploring, as well as many couple sits throughout the park.   The one downside to this place, is that it IS so well known, that almost every time I go here (including the 5 minutes to take this pic) someone ends up tp'ing in right on top of you because they logged out in your spot.   So keep in mind that there is a good chance of a cock block at any point when using this sim.

#18 VRR Virtual Reality Room

I was tempted to link to Wrath's personal one, but thought that might get ME reported by HIM, and then blog wars, and all kinds of in-fighting and battles.   Well okay, I really was too lazy to climb all those trees to find the link.   Anyways, this is an awesome fun thing to do where you can sit in a 360 degree environment and pick RL scenic pictures to surround yourself with.   I think this is really fun, and you can rez dance balls into the center of it, which makes for some nice pics and a little different take on an otherwise ordinary dancing experience - throw in a personal music stream and your love's favorite song, and SCORE!   :)

#19 ING Renault F1 Go-carts

This is a really fun place to ride go-carts, and to learn more about F1 racing.   I will warn you though, that it DOES require you to wear a helmet to race, and it DOES take off your hair, so you are both baldies under those helmets.   You can however custom design your own helmet with your personal design and color scheme which is kinda fun (but she will still bitch that it takes her hair off, so best not to do as a first date, but maybe one down the road after you have already won her over.)

#20 Avilion Waterfall Skyboxes

Yet another quiet little spot taken from the Avilion sim with the castle in the distance.   On the other side of the river, across from the dancing gazebo, there are actually skyboxes built high up into the waterfalls, which you can teleport up to from the wooden walkway below.   They even show when they are occupied, so it should cut down on people dropping in on you.   Typically they each have a dance ball, and some cuddle options.   They make for a great place for those long quiet talks that go deep into the night.

It is proving to be a little bigger of a challenge than I had thought at first, because I was planning on relying heavily on my patented Landmark folder that had all sort of Romantic hot spots neatly organized into categories such as scenic, artsy, fun, dancing, etc... I guess I am getting kinda old, and things change very quickly in SL, such that I am only hitting about a 50% success rate with the landmarks I am picking. We have been having a lot of reminiscing discussions about things like... remember that cool tango club in Valentine with the awesome roses and lighting where we used to go dancing a lot? Yeah, well it is now a porn club, so it has sort of lost a little of its luster for me... lol. However, if you do wanna go in, we could at least look around. *wink*

So anyways, my plan is to deliver ten a day, which I will stick to unless I find myself having to get very creative by the end of it. I will hit 50 though... cuz I hate to miss a goal!

These are not in any particular order, because I am too lazy to rank them... so you will just have to hit them all to determine which you like the best. :)

#1 Gardens of Bliss Balloon Ride

This is a scenic fairly lengthy tour of a beautifully landscaped sim by hot air balloon. The ride gives you lots of time for discussion and admiring the view. There are also tons of paths to explore and hike on down below so should be good for several hours of fun.

#2 Phat Cats

I still miss the old Phat Cats before they had their own sim with all the retail crap lagging up the place, but at the end of the day it is still a great place to take a date. The jazz music is great, and other than having to hike through retail hell to get there, the ballroom is still a visually gorgeous setting for a date.

#3 Avilion Ball Room

The Avilion Ballroom is still my absolute favorite place to take a date. You really can't beat the atmosphere as they pump out the love songs, and you are caught up in the feeling of being in a castle with that highly reflective floor. Use this one with caution, because you might get caught up in the moment and end up proposing, or at the minimum she might walk away preggers.

#4 Prim Hearts Amusement Park

All of your favorite amusement park rides are available for your riding pleasure. There are interactive games like go carts, bumper boats, or submarine battles you can do, as well as just enjoy the roller coaster, ferris wheel, log float ride, or various other quick spinning rides which are sure to get you motion sick, unless you fix those camera controls.

#5 The Big Easy

I really like this recreation of some of the key landmarks from New Orleans. They have a beautifully recreated Cathedral, Mardi Gras floats, small hole in the wall bars, and beautifully landscaped gardens to check out. Is a great sim to explore and talk. (They also have a lot of the wedding poses set up, so be careful which balls you jump on, or you might get more than you bargained for. :) )

#6 The Second Louvre

If you enjoy attending art museums and exhibitions, then the Second Louvre is an awesome build, with 3 levels of artwork which incorporates both RL and SL art into one space. You can see photography and prints from RL, right alongside people experimenting with lighting and sculpties. It is a lot to look at in one setting, but makes for a great place to hang out for as long as your interest holds.

#7 Roll-a-rama Roller Skating Rink

If rollerskating is your thing, then be sure to check out the Roll-a-rama skating rink. This is a fun place, complete with rotating lights, and colored floor which is sure to *ahem* set the mood, well for the hokey pokey at least. You will need your own animations for a couples skate, but these can be picked up at various vendors.

#8 SS Galaxy Ballroom

The SS Galaxy is actually made up of 3 complete sims, and you can do everything from hang out at the pool, rent a room, shop, or even try skeet shooting. Literally anything you can do on an RL cruise, you can probably attempt on the SS Galaxy. The glass domed ballroom though is an excellent place to take your date dancing and is beautiful under the stars on midnight setting.

#9 Parrot Island

I was a little disappointed that Parrot Island doesn't provide the free jet skis anymore, which were one of my favorites, but it is still a nice relaxing beach themed sim. You can ride the couples swan if you are REALLY bored, but overall it is a great place with some couples animations to just relax and enjoy the water.

#10 Wolf Mountain Ski Resort

If your persuasions are a little more to the scenic snow variety, then be sure to check out Wolf Mountain Ski resort. Unfortunately the sled is only one person, but still a fun way to go down the slopes. You can however mount up your skis and hit the slopes for some fun rides down, and then of course take the long ride up on the ski lift.

It is proving to be a little bigger of a challenge than I had thought at first, because I was planning on relying heavily on my patented Landmark folder that had all sort of Romantic hot spots neatly organized into categories such as scenic, artsy, fun, dancing, etc... I guess I am getting kinda old, and things change very quickly in SL, such that I am only hitting about a 50% success rate with the landmarks I am picking. We have been having a lot of reminiscing discussions about things like... remember that cool tango club in Valentine with the awesome roses and lighting where we used to go dancing a lot? Yeah, well it is now a porn club, so it has sort of lost a little of its luster for me... lol. However, if you do wanna go in, we could at least look around. *wink*

So anyways, my plan is to deliver ten a day, which I will stick to unless I find myself having to get very creative by the end of it. I will hit 50 though... cuz I hate to miss a goal!

These are not in any particular order, because I am too lazy to rank them... so you will just have to hit them all to determine which you like the best. :)

#1 Gardens of Bliss Balloon Ride

This is a scenic fairly lengthy tour of a beautifully landscaped sim by hot air balloon. The ride gives you lots of time for discussion and admiring the view. There are also tons of paths to explore and hike on down below so should be good for several hours of fun.

#2 Phat Cats

I still miss the old Phat Cats before they had their own sim with all the retail crap lagging up the place, but at the end of the day it is still a great place to take a date. The jazz music is great, and other than having to hike through retail hell to get there, the ballroom is still a visually gorgeous setting for a date.

#3 Avilion Ball Room

The Avilion Ballroom is still my absolute favorite place to take a date. You really can't beat the atmosphere as they pump out the love songs, and you are caught up in the feeling of being in a castle with that highly reflective floor. Use this one with caution, because you might get caught up in the moment and end up proposing, or at the minimum she might walk away preggers.

#4 Prim Hearts Amusement Park

All of your favorite amusement park rides are available for your riding pleasure. There are interactive games like go carts, bumper boats, or submarine battles you can do, as well as just enjoy the roller coaster, ferris wheel, log float ride, or various other quick spinning rides which are sure to get you motion sick, unless you fix those camera controls.

#5 The Big Easy

I really like this recreation of some of the key landmarks from New Orleans. They have a beautifully recreated Cathedral, Mardi Gras floats, small hole in the wall bars, and beautifully landscaped gardens to check out. Is a great sim to explore and talk. (They also have a lot of the wedding poses set up, so be careful which balls you jump on, or you might get more than you bargained for. :) )

#6 The Second Louvre

If you enjoy attending art museums and exhibitions, then the Second Louvre is an awesome build, with 3 levels of artwork which incorporates both RL and SL art into one space. You can see photography and prints from RL, right alongside people experimenting with lighting and sculpties. It is a lot to look at in one setting, but makes for a great place to hang out for as long as your interest holds.

#7 Roll-a-rama Roller Skating Rink

If rollerskating is your thing, then be sure to check out the Roll-a-rama skating rink. This is a fun place, complete with rotating lights, and colored floor which is sure to *ahem* set the mood, well for the hokey pokey at least. You will need your own animations for a couples skate, but these can be picked up at various vendors.

#8 SS Galaxy Ballroom

The SS Galaxy is actually made up of 3 complete sims, and you can do everything from hang out at the pool, rent a room, shop, or even try skeet shooting. Literally anything you can do on an RL cruise, you can probably attempt on the SS Galaxy. The glass domed ballroom though is an excellent place to take your date dancing and is beautiful under the stars on midnight setting.

#9 Parrot Island

I was a little disappointed that Parrot Island doesn't provide the free jet skis anymore, which were one of my favorites, but it is still a nice relaxing beach themed sim. You can ride the couples swan if you are REALLY bored, but overall it is a great place with some couples animations to just relax and enjoy the water.

#10 Wolf Mountain Ski Resort

If your persuasions are a little more to the scenic snow variety, then be sure to check out Wolf Mountain Ski resort. Unfortunately the sled is only one person, but still a fun way to go down the slopes. You can however mount up your skis and hit the slopes for some fun rides down, and then of course take the long ride up on the ski lift.

The nation's birthday is upon us, along with all of the cool floating ducks, fun parades and zoo-like good times that come along with it.

So, in the spirit of living it up, here's the schedule for all things Canada Day around the Valley.

IN COURTENAY:

- Get everything started off right at 7 a.m. (runs until 11) Tuesday morning with the Kinsmen's pancake breakfast at Riverside Park in Courtenay. A multi-cultural food fair will continue through the day.

- The big show is at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday morning with the Grand Canada Day Parade along Fifth Street across from Lewis Park. This fun annual tradition is a must. The kiddo decorated bike contest is at 9:30 a.m. at Lake Trail School. Kids 5 to 12 can participate and win great prizes.

- The beauty of wrestling for a parking spot is that, once you're there, you can stay all day. Make sure to walk on up to the Courtenay Museum after the parade for a free day at this great slice of valley history. It opens at 11:30 a.m.

- Next, make your way back to Simms Park for the annual Pow Wow. This event, which is usually held in Cumberland, has moved to Courtenay this year and promises to be a really great chance to experience and celebrate First Nation Heritage. It runs from 12:30 to 4:30 p.m.

- Then, head across the street to Lewis Park for Kids Zone fun including the Ducky 500, circus fun and more goodness. The outdoor pool will host a FREE swim all day and, at 1 pm., there will be FREE ice cream.

- Wrap up the day (if you are still awake) with a Free Family Concert at Simms Park. The Cavalcade of Country Stars will be performing from 7 to 9 p.m.

ON MT. WASHINGTON:

- If getting away from it all is more your speed, hit Mount Washington for some serious good times. With older kiddos, plan on hitting the mountain bike park. But, for the younger crowd, there will be face painting, a bouncy castle, games, relay races, crafts and prizes. Everything kicks of at Noon Tuesday and runs until 4 p.m. So, head up the mountain to keep cool and have fun.

IN COMOX:

- While there are no formal Canada Day celebrations in Comox, you can always celebrate yourselves out at the Hands-On Farm at the Filberg (open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Tuesday).

We will be jumping in on Tuesday with our first Farm Friend update here on CVK, checking in on our calf buddy, Popsicle, and sharing a fun treat that's perfect for the holiday.

Wahooooooo!

Happy (early) Canada Day!

We'll see you out at festivities.

See our current messages (click below) to the US Department of Homeland Security and to the Governor of Arizona on border fencing that would harm the jaguar.

Please back these up with your own...(and send us a copy or post them to this blog)... Let 'em hear our collective roar for the jaguar!

Michael Chertoff, Secreatary of the US Department of Homeland Security  chertoff_letter6-27-08  

US Customs and Border Patrol  us-customs_letter6-30-08

Governor Napolitano of Arizona  letter-to-az-governor6-27-08 

We've been waiting for this all year.

Spring gave us a taste of Summery good times. But, now it's official.

Today is opening day at The Hands-On Farm over at The Filberg.

It's something our daughter looks forward to every year - weeks on end of getting to know our farm friends and trying to talk me into a rabbit, guinea pig or maybe even something larger.

This year, I totally conceded to the onslaught of "let's get an animal. I want an animal. Can't we just have one animal!"

"Yes," I told our daughter. "We'll take the...calf."

What, you ask? (and so did she)

I am not entirely whacked out, and a sweet baby calf is not making his way to our urban homestead this year.

But, we will be making ourselves at home over at the farm - and so can all of you - as CVK is happy to introduce you to our CVK Farm Friend - Popsicle.

This 3-week-old calf has cordially agreed to be our CVK Farm Friend ALL SUMMER - helping CVK kids and parents learn more about farm life, sustainable agriculture and, best of all, have a buddy at the farm you all can get to know for the next eight weeks.

In celebration of the farm's opening day, you can come by the Hands-On Farm at the Filberg from 1 to 3 p.m. TODAY to formally meet Popsicle, give this super sweet (although still very shy) guy a gentle pat and even get your picture taken with him to be included on CVK.

Then, check back in at CVK EVERY TUESDAY this Summer for weekly Popsicle updates including farm good times like recipes, crafts, downloadable colouring pages and teaching tools. Comox Recreation is not going to be maintaining its Hands-On Farm website this year. So, CVK is your place for the latest news and information about this Valley Summertime favourite.

Don't let all of that online goodness substitute for regular visits to the farm to get to know Popsicle yourselves though. Get out there as often as possible this Summer. While you are there, take notes, make up songs, snap some photos and feel free to send in your observations, photos and other farm fun to post on CVK as well.

Here's the scoop on the farm:
The Hands-On Farm is open every day from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. through August 24 at the Filberg in Comox. To get there from Courtenay, cross the 17th Street Bridge and drive along the dyke road, through downtown Comox, and make a right at Comox Avenue before it (you'll already be on Comox Ave.) bends and heads east. The Filberg sign is visible from the road.
Admission is $1 for kiddos under 5 and $2 for everyone else. I strongly encourage active farm-goers to purchase $30 family passes (we paid for it in 5 visits last year), which are available (cash only) from the folks at the farm.

Can't wait to see you all at the farm! Make sure to drop by this afternoon and say HI!

Editor's Note:

Here is my original post:

March 29, 2007

If your idea of a family day on the beach involves a quiet, out-of-the-way beach front with a quirky game farm/ice cream stand within a short walk of the shore, Williams Beach near Merville is an unusual, easily accessed spot.

At the end of Williams Beach Road, you can either head toward the beach (which butts up against the Alders cottages) or over to Seaview Game Farm, a funky, fun place to learn, pick up some of the most fantastic venison sausage ever and - as I said before - stop in for an ice cream or a cold drink (we'll take a look at Seaview more in depth in a future post). There is very limited parking at the beach access point. Be sure to park on the side of the road as not to block others wanting to get out on the sand.

The beach at high tide is very rocky and not much fun for tiny feet and hands. So, as always, check the tide charts to make sure beach time is safe and fun. At low or even mid-tide, though, sand bars are a plenty, with lots of space to play and explore - and plenty of large driftwood to lunch on after.

We love this beach because of its quiet, family nature, its absolutely spectacular views of the Mainland and the fact that Seaview is a favourite stop for the tiny person (and the dinner making person. Their sausage is, again, amazing).

Combined with a Seaview farm tour, a visit to Williams Beach can end up a full day of outside good times for everyone.

DETAILS:
Where: Williams Beach
Directions: Head north from Courtenay on the Old Island Highway until you get to Williams Beach Road (there is a sign for Seaview Game Farm on the highway). Turn right and head to the end of the road.
When: Checking the tide charts is a must for this beach.
Tips: Bring the camera. It's gorgeous out there.

Editor's Note:

Here's my original post:

May 1, 2007

Tucked away above the shores of a quiet Comox neighborhood, there lives a tiny nature park big on beautiful.

We've driven by it on the way out to Pt. Holmes or the Goose Spit about a million times and, when we finally stopped to check out MacDonald Wood Nature Park this Spring, we discovered a quiet sliver of friendly birds, roaming deer and groomed trails that make for a leisurely afternoon walk leading right out to the shoreline.

The 9-acre conservation area that begins at the corner of Balmoral and Croteau roads is the site of the remnants of the Great Comox Midden and some of the largest cedars remaining in the Valley grow here. The fawn lily, skunk cabbage and other lush plant life make this remnant of what were once wide-ranging coastal forests peaceful and lovely to wander through.

The flat, well-groomed trails are great for tiny legs and off-road strollers, and they lead to a lovely patch of aspen/cottonwood trees and a meandering boardwalk path which runs through a coastal marsh out to a small beach and some incredible views.

I love this spot for its tranquility, easy access and incredible First Nations heritage. It's perfect for an afternoon walk, a learning adventure (the Comox library has wonderful resources on the history of this area of Comox), or leisurely hanging out as the boardwalk has several benches located perfectly for sunsets, tides and general creature watching.

There are also a few picnic tables, but no washrooms. So, make a pit stop before hitting the trail and make sure to check out MacDonald Wood the next time a nature walk is on the agenda.

DETAILS:
Where: MacDonald Wood
Directions: Take Comox Road out to Balmoral, make a right and head to Croteau Road (on your right). There's a large sign marking the park entrance. A small parking area is along Croteau Road.

The Summer is such a huge time for people who drop in on the Valley to soak up the gorgeous beaches, hang out with family and even be tempted to relocate if given enough reasons on the plus side.

We don't go there so much any more as adventure always seems to be taking us to new and different places. But, the Courtenay Air Park is for sure one of the lovely, endearing locales that helped us feel confident that the Valley was and is our home.

Here's the original post:

March 20, 2007

Yes!

The weather man lied!

The sun is out this morning!

Let's get those kiddos fed, bundled up and...

If the last part of that sentence leaves you longing for an outdoor spot that's easy to get to, bike or stroller accessible, relaxing for the adults and packed full of cool nature and aviation stuff for the kids to leisurely check out, the Courtenay Air Park is one of your best bets.

Literally right behind the Comox Valley Tourism information centre on Cliffe Road, this gem is well loved by families, retirees and the general dog-walking crowd, and with the Park Cafe rounding out the loop, you can wind up sipping hot cocoa and snacking on pastries at the end of the 2.7K.

The small planes that call the Air Park home are generally a favourite around our house. Several sea planes also take off and land in the estuary, making for some Northern Exposure sort of moments.

As for wildlife, depending on the tides and where the fish are for the day, the estuary is often lively with seals, heron, bald eagles, flocks of ducks and geese (as it is a bird sanctuary) as well as an ocassional otter or two. Along the trail, the Comox Valley Naturalist Society has posted informative signs about local flora to make it more of a learning experience for everyone.

Entirely paved, this walk is ideal for the biking toddler or older child as well as strollers. One of the most accessible walks in the Valley, the Courtenay Air Park comes with the highest of recommendations for family friendliness.

DETAILS:
What: The Courtenay Air Park
Dierctions: from the 17th Street Bridge, head south on Cliffe Ave. and make a left at the entrance to the park, which is right before the kayak shop. There is a secondary parking area on Mansfield Drive that also can be accessed by taking a left off of Cliffe Ave. at the Trumpeters Landing condos.
When: Sunrise to sunset daily.
What to bring: Strollers and bikes are allowed. Make sure to bring water and sunglasses on really bright days.
Tips: This walk is a favourite for people with dogs. As a rule, most are very respectful with their animals. But, be aware that there are usually at least a handful of dogs on the path.

I gave up hope and forgot about it until the other day when, during a cab ride, we sped past a new and improved, Cosmetic Market! Only two blocks away from its original spot on 39th and Madison, I immediately noted the new location, on 37th between Madison and 5th Ave.

If you want retail therapy, and you want it cheap, check out Cosmetic Market. It's a great alternative for when you can't spare the cash for Sephora and is even cheaper than Duane Reade. Or for when you're desperate for a serious makeover, a $4 collander, and some Fruit Gushers.

So that got us thinking - what cool thing would you be prepared to splash the cash on?

Perhaps you fancy a designer hammock for your bedroom, an indoor trampoline or a life-size model of a Dalek?

Or maybe you're a keen collector and desperate for something - a rare stamp, a funky Beanie Baby or some new Lego.

So imagine you've got loads of money and can buy anything - what would it be?? Email us now!

Unfortunately this topic is now closed but there are Comments pages on other subjects on the main Chat index.

Your comments

"I wonder if you could buy a real live Tardis and go back in time?"

Bethany, 11, Kent, England

"I would probably buy a plot of land on the moon! That WOULD be pretty cool!"

Phoebe, 11, Belgium

"I would buy a visit to see David Tennant. I would also build my own animal shelter for abandoned and injured animals."

Cecily, 12, New York, USA

"I would by all the latest gadgets and an indoor swimming pool at the back of my house!!!!"

Isabel, 11, Watford, England

"I think I would buy a live Cyberman and Dalek and see them fight and see who would win."

Natalia, 9, Cowly, Poland

"I'd build my own ice ri