Ride the Rolling Prairie Trail in Franklin County, Iowa

If you’re looking for a fun activity in North Iowa and don’t want to spend a dime, head to Franklin County and hop on the Rolling Prairie Trail!  Franklin County is so lucky to have a fantastic bike trail that is free to use and family friendly!

When the boys were younger and not so independently mobile, M and I would frequently go on bike rides together!  Our favorite place was to head the short jaunt to the Rolling Prairie Trail.  On this trail, you can walk, jog (which I’ve done many times), bike, or Rollerblade!  You just can’t take anything motorized on it!

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Nickelodeon Universe & Moose Mountain: Fun at the Mall of America

Nickelodeon Universe & Moose Mountain: Fun at the Mall of America

If Disney World is the happiest place on Earth, then the Mall of America is the happiest place in the Midwest!  Recently, my three favorite guys and I found fun things at the Mall of America with Nickelodeon Universe & Moose Mountain Adventure Golf!

Christmas Time

For the last two years, T and I have given the boys a shopping spree at the Mall of America for their Christmas present!  Last year, as we roamed the stores shopping for their gifts, we realized that at the ages they are, maybe they would like to shop for their own things, so we suprised them with a trip to the mall, an overnight stay at a hotel, and of course money to spend as their gift!  As it turned out, they loved the gift and actually asked to do it again this past Christmas!  It made our Christmas shopping so much easier and so we were more than happy to oblige!

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The Minnesota State Fair: A Guide to Don’t Miss Fun

The Minnesota State Fair:  A Guide to Don’t Miss Fun

This was not my first visit to the Minnesota State Fair! In fact, it was actually my 3rd or 4th visit. I do however consider myself an expert in fairs! Not only was I involved with the Franklin County Fair in my hometown for more than 10 years, T and I love visiting different fairs and especially the Iowa State Fair!

So, what’s so great about the Minnesota State Fair?

Things To Do

You will not, I promise, run out of things to do at the MN State Fair!  The choices are endless!  

1. Math On A Stick

If you have small children, we recommend heading to Math On A Stick!  Created as a way for kids and adults to both enjoy mathematical skills without actually doing equations, there are several stations that challenge kids to use their logical and creative brains at the same time!  The stations can change each day as well!  The day we visited, there was  a station that used balloons to create different shapes, etc.  Even the big guys found it entertaining!

Tips for Visiting the Iowa State Fair

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A Guide to the Amana Colonies

A Guide to the Amana Colonies

One of the greatest “hidden treasures” of Iowa is the Amana Colonies!  Whether you’re looking for a girlfriends getaway or a romantic weekend away, you’ll find a great time here!  Here is your guide to visiting.  

One of the amazing light shows of the skies at our campground!
One of the amazing light shows of the skies at our campground!

Where to Stay

If you’re a camper, we recommend Amana RV Park & Event Center in Amana, Iowa!  Amana is the largest colony of the Amana Colonies and where most of the action is, so it’s the perfect location to stay!  When we visited, we easily made our reservation online!  Upon our arrival, the employees provided us with tourist guides and coupon books, which is a great perk!

It’s easy to find your camping spot as there are members of the staff that lead you directly there.  The staff will also help you get lined up correctly on our pad!  Because of their facilities, they are able to host large events along with family reunions, etc!

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