by Cheryl | Jun 29, 2026 | destinations we EXPLORE, hikes, Parks, places we PLAY
If you’re planning to visit the Thomas Dambo Trolls in Clinton, Iowa, you’re in for a magical adventure! We first visited Clinton with one mission: find the trolls. As longtime Thomas Dambo fans, we couldn’t wait to add three more trolls (plus a...
by Cheryl | Oct 15, 2025 | hikes, places we PLAY
Chasing fall colors? Volo Bog is listed as one of the best spots to catch fall color so we had to check it out for ourselves. It definitely did not disappoint! What is a bog? Bogs are acidic, peat-accumulating wetlands. As the only quaking bog in Illinois, Volo Bog is...
by Cheryl | Jul 24, 2025 | hikes, places we PLAY
The Dambo Trolls of Bernheim Forest in Kentucky Nestled along a winding two-mile trail in the rolling hills of Bernheim Forest in Kentucky, are the Forest Giants—a trio of larger-than-life troll sculptures created by Danish artist Thomas Dambo. These whimsical...
by Cheryl | May 6, 2025 | National Parks, places we PLAY
As you know, we’re on a mission to explore all the National Parks, and hiking through these natural wonders is a top priority on our bucket list. On our recent Colorado trip, we couldn’t pass up the chance to visit Great Sand Dunes National Park....
by Cheryl | Apr 21, 2025 | destinations we EXPLORE, National Parks, places we PLAY
As you know, we’re on a mission to explore all the National Parks, and hiking through these natural wonders is a top priority on our bucket list. During our unforgettable spring break adventure (more on this!), visiting Petrified Forest National Park in Arizona...
by Cheryl | Dec 11, 2024 | hikes, places we PLAY
We had a fantastic time exploring North Utica, the Gateway to Starved Rock Country. Of course, we couldn’t pass up the chance to visit Starved Rock State Park! While we’ve enjoyed this beautiful spot in the warmer months (the waterfalls are amazing!), we...
