Recipe from "Baked: New Frontiers in Baking" by Matt Lewis and Renato Poliafito
Found at http://www.amateurgourmet.com
My husband found this recipe online. It is one of the best granolas I've ever tasted. Plus, it's cheaper than buying it. My husband and I have been loving it in our yogurt, but my toddler just devours it plain.
We did not include any of the nuts or dried fruits except the almonds and it was still delicious! Not including those ingredients made it very cost friendly.
Ingredients:
2 cups rolled oats
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon salt
3 tablespoons plus 1 teaspoon vegetable oil
1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup firmly packed light brown sugar
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1/3 cup whole almonds [Note: I used slivered almonds, and they worked fine.]
1/3 cup whole hazelnuts
1/3 cup golden raisins
1/3 cup dried cherries
Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, toss the oats with the cinnamon and salt.
In a medium bowl, stir together the oil, honey, brown sugar, and vanilla. Whisk until completely combined.
Pour the honey mixture over the oats mixture and use your hands to combine them: Gather up some of the mixture in each hand and make a fist. Repeat until all of the oats are coated with the honey mixture.
Pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Spread it out evenly, but leave a few clumps here and there for texture.
Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and use a metal spatula to lift and flip the granola. Sprinkle the almonds over the granola and return the baking sheet to the oven.
Bake for 5 minutes, then remove from the oven and use a metal spatula to lift and flip the granola. Sprinkle the hazelnuts over the granola and return the baking sheet to the oven.
Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven. Let cool completely. Sprinkle the raisins and cherries over the granola...and use your hands to transfer it to an airtight container.
The granola will keep for 1 week.
Monday, March 29, 2010
Saturday, March 27, 2010
Chuck E. Cheese's
What it is: Anyone who watches PBS Kids programs has seen the sponsorship by these guys. The Durham Chuck E. Cheese's is just like every one you've been to back when you were a kid. It is an indoor play zone for young children, with a climb-up plastic labyrinth, and a few dozen games that take tokens for rides, hoops, fishing games, whack-a-mole, etc etc. The way to do it is get the Sunday newspaper coupons and clip the 100 tokens for $15, which usually covers two visits for our two children. The place also has a pizza and salad counter, though the pizza seems to be warmed-up frozen pizza. Very few people go there to eat, it seems. There's a stage with giant automated characters, which may seem cheesy (ha, ha) to adults, but kids seem fascinated.
What we like: They have excellent hours and are open almost all the time. They open at 9am 7 days a week, and close at 9pm on school nights, 10 pm weekend nights. The place is clean, and let's face it, kids love it. They have excellent security, they stamp everyone's hands at the entry and kids can't leave the premises without their matched adult.
What we would change: It seems better for kids over 2. If they are younger than that, the options can be a little limited for them. Oh and I don't know why, but my kids seem determined to eat the salt out of the shakers on every table.
Website and other important information: It's right near South Square, where Target and Sam's Club are. Take 15-501 business, turn on Shannon Road, and Mayfair is the next light. It can be hard to see when it's dark.
Address: 3724 Mayfair St, Durham NC 27707
Phone Number: (919) 493-6084.
Website: http://www.chuckecheese.com/. Entry is free but many activities require tokens (see coupon tip above).
Photos:
1. The arcade games
2. The band
3. The play gym-which is free
4. An outside view
What we like: They have excellent hours and are open almost all the time. They open at 9am 7 days a week, and close at 9pm on school nights, 10 pm weekend nights. The place is clean, and let's face it, kids love it. They have excellent security, they stamp everyone's hands at the entry and kids can't leave the premises without their matched adult.
What we would change: It seems better for kids over 2. If they are younger than that, the options can be a little limited for them. Oh and I don't know why, but my kids seem determined to eat the salt out of the shakers on every table.
Website and other important information: It's right near South Square, where Target and Sam's Club are. Take 15-501 business, turn on Shannon Road, and Mayfair is the next light. It can be hard to see when it's dark.
Address: 3724 Mayfair St, Durham NC 27707
Phone Number: (919) 493-6084.
Website: http://www.chuckecheese.com/. Entry is free but many activities require tokens (see coupon tip above).
Photos:
1. The arcade games
2. The band
3. The play gym-which is free
4. An outside view
Thursday, March 25, 2010
The Sarah P. Duke Gardens
What it is: The Duke Gardens are something that set a visit to Duke University apart from a visit to another university. There are countless paths, and it would take days to explore everyone one. There are sections with roses, terraces upon terraces of seasonal flowers, a cafe where you can buy goodies to eat, a native plant garden, an Asian themed section, large open grassy fields, and a pond complete with ducks, geese, and a picaresque bridge. It is right on the edge of Duke's west campus and the medical center.
What we like: This is a great place to explore. Toddlers can just be set free and will find endless things to look at and explore. There's also lots of great places for them to just run around. One of my toddler's favorite parts is the duck pond. He loves to get up close to the water and watch the ducks and geese as well as run back and forth over the bridge. Food is available for duck feeding in the cafe and shop next to the terraces of flowers and gazebo. The gardens are also a great place for a nice weather picnic with your toddler.
What we would change: It's definitely a hard choice when deciding whether or not to bring a stroller to the gardens for your toddler. While the gardens are very large and the stroller is necessary for getting from one part of the gardens to the other there are also parts of the gardens that are only accessible by stairs which makes a stroller unwieldy and difficult to handle. It's especially difficult to find a stroller accessible way to get over to the chapel area of campus from the gardens, but it is possible. I found myself bringing a stroller, but parking it and leaving it while I went off to wander certain places with my child.
Website and Directions: The Duke Gardens are located off of Anderson St. on the edge of Duke's West Campus. You do have to pay for parking in their lot, but there are plenty of spaces on all but the busiest days.
Address:
Photos: (Here are a few shots, but the pictures really don't do the gardens justice, especially when everything is in bloom.)
1. The entrance to the gardens when walking over from campus
2. A view of the pond and bridge
3. A lone heron poses next to the pond
What we like: This is a great place to explore. Toddlers can just be set free and will find endless things to look at and explore. There's also lots of great places for them to just run around. One of my toddler's favorite parts is the duck pond. He loves to get up close to the water and watch the ducks and geese as well as run back and forth over the bridge. Food is available for duck feeding in the cafe and shop next to the terraces of flowers and gazebo. The gardens are also a great place for a nice weather picnic with your toddler.
What we would change: It's definitely a hard choice when deciding whether or not to bring a stroller to the gardens for your toddler. While the gardens are very large and the stroller is necessary for getting from one part of the gardens to the other there are also parts of the gardens that are only accessible by stairs which makes a stroller unwieldy and difficult to handle. It's especially difficult to find a stroller accessible way to get over to the chapel area of campus from the gardens, but it is possible. I found myself bringing a stroller, but parking it and leaving it while I went off to wander certain places with my child.
Website and Directions: The Duke Gardens are located off of Anderson St. on the edge of Duke's West Campus. You do have to pay for parking in their lot, but there are plenty of spaces on all but the busiest days.
Address:
Sarah P. Duke Gardens
426 Anderson Street
Box 90341
Duke University
Durham, NC 27708-0341
Phone number: 919-684-3698
Website: http://www.hr.duke.edu/dukegardens/Photos: (Here are a few shots, but the pictures really don't do the gardens justice, especially when everything is in bloom.)
1. The entrance to the gardens when walking over from campus
2. A view of the pond and bridge
3. A lone heron poses next to the pond
Monday, March 22, 2010
Wheels Family Fun Center
What it is: Wheels is a bit of a Durham tradition, though it has seen better days since it opened in 1980. In the nondescript steel buildings are a roller skating rink, go-kart track, mini-golf, skateboard park, batting cages, a video arcade, and a huge indoor climbing structure for the younger set. They also regularly throw big open parties for older kids and teenagers, with DJs and light shows. It's funky and a little hard to describe. Since we have younger kids (2 and 4 yo girls) we stick to the play gym, which has a gigantic gym structure with slides and ball pits.
What we like: It is so relaxed and friendly there. The older couple who own the place really run it for families wanting to have fun together. The kids seem to just let loose in the playgym, no matter how cranky. Even though I often see 6-9 year-olds in the play gym with the littler ones, everyone's always very mindful and polite. Clearly it's not new but it's clean and well-kept. And if you want to go crawl in with your kids, you're welcome to, and you'll get a great workout! The play gym is only open for open play Fri, Sat and Sun, but it's open later in the evenings, which makes it a great way to expend energy before dinner.
What we would change: Honestly, I like it how it is, not too flashy or high-tech. But the walls and flooring have gotten a little dingy, the fluorescent lighting is a little tiring.
Directions and important information: It's located just off Hwy 70 near the interchange with I-85: as you get off 85 onto 70, it'll be the first exit, and then after you head East back over the highway, it'll be the street on your right. It can be hard to miss, especially in the dark.
Address: 715 North Hoover Road, Durham, NC 27703
Phone Number: 919-598-1944
Each activity has different hours, so call ahead to check, but at the time of writing, the hours were:
Roller Skating: Wed. 4-9, Fri. 4-10, Sat. 10-10, Sun. 1-9
Fun Park/Play Gym: Fri. 4-9, Sat. 10-9, Sun. 1-9
Photos:
1. Wheels from the outside
2. Play gym
What we like: It is so relaxed and friendly there. The older couple who own the place really run it for families wanting to have fun together. The kids seem to just let loose in the playgym, no matter how cranky. Even though I often see 6-9 year-olds in the play gym with the littler ones, everyone's always very mindful and polite. Clearly it's not new but it's clean and well-kept. And if you want to go crawl in with your kids, you're welcome to, and you'll get a great workout! The play gym is only open for open play Fri, Sat and Sun, but it's open later in the evenings, which makes it a great way to expend energy before dinner.
What we would change: Honestly, I like it how it is, not too flashy or high-tech. But the walls and flooring have gotten a little dingy, the fluorescent lighting is a little tiring.
Directions and important information: It's located just off Hwy 70 near the interchange with I-85: as you get off 85 onto 70, it'll be the first exit, and then after you head East back over the highway, it'll be the street on your right. It can be hard to miss, especially in the dark.
Address: 715 North Hoover Road, Durham, NC 27703
Phone Number: 919-598-1944
Each activity has different hours, so call ahead to check, but at the time of writing, the hours were:
Roller Skating: Wed. 4-9, Fri. 4-10, Sat. 10-10, Sun. 1-9
Fun Park/Play Gym: Fri. 4-9, Sat. 10-9, Sun. 1-9
Photos:
1. Wheels from the outside
2. Play gym
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Hope Valley Baptist Church
What it is: This playground is part of the Hope Valley Baptist Church near Jordan High School is South Durham. It is part of the church, but since they do not have a preschool everyday, the playground is open to the public most of the time. (We have called to confirm this on several occasions.) It is a fenced in area that contains two play structures separated by another fence, one for older kids and one for younger. There is a set of swings in each section as well as picnic tables and a sandbox in the area for smaller kids.
What we like: One of the best things about this playground is that it is fenced. That way, you don't have to worry about the little ones running out into roads or away from the playground. However, the gates can be pushed open by the curious toddler. The sandbox is also a nice touch and can keep toddlers occupied for a while. This seems like a calm secluded playground where parents can relax a little as their children get out their energy.
What we would change: As stated earlier, the gates to the fence aren't as secure as they could be, so parents will need to be mindful of that. In addition, this playground is unavailable when it is being used in any way by the church.
Website and directions: Hope Valley Baptist Church is located at the intersection of Hwy. 751, Garrett Rd., and Hwy. 54 is South Durham.
Church Website: (No playground information) http://www.hvbc.org/
Photos:
1. Older kids playground
2. Younger kids playground
What we like: One of the best things about this playground is that it is fenced. That way, you don't have to worry about the little ones running out into roads or away from the playground. However, the gates can be pushed open by the curious toddler. The sandbox is also a nice touch and can keep toddlers occupied for a while. This seems like a calm secluded playground where parents can relax a little as their children get out their energy.
What we would change: As stated earlier, the gates to the fence aren't as secure as they could be, so parents will need to be mindful of that. In addition, this playground is unavailable when it is being used in any way by the church.
Website and directions: Hope Valley Baptist Church is located at the intersection of Hwy. 751, Garrett Rd., and Hwy. 54 is South Durham.
Church Website: (No playground information) http://www.hvbc.org/
Photos:
1. Older kids playground
2. Younger kids playground
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Rainbow Play Systems
What it is: this store basically sells baby and childrens' furniture, as well as big backyard playsets. But the store also has on its huge front lawn a selection of 13 fully-built playsets to play on (for free!). If it's rainy, they have a gigantic wood playset built into a special room inside the store, which they named the Rainbow Play Room. Open play runs M-F from 10-1 and costs $5 per child. The room can also be rented for birthday parties, but if it's not booked, then open play is available at those times too.
What we liked: The outside play area is great advertisement for them, and on a nice day, the kids can really run wild between all the play sets, far from the road and without having to wait turns for anything. If a rain shower blows in, the indoor play structure is huge, and has activities that range in difficulty so crawlers and big kids can find their fun. And it's likely you'll have the whole place to yourselves, I've never seen it crowded. If you're there during a downpour, the steel roof makes it sound really impressive!
What we would change: For some reason, when you put arcade games near a play area, little kids will always gravitate to them. There are about eight arcade games there, and since I want my kids to expend energy, it's a little bit of a hassle to keep them off the machines and back to climbing. Since the first goal of this business is to sell play systems and furniture, I don't think they have wi-fi, and the cell phone reception wasn't great.
How to find it: The store is located on Hwy 70 between Durham and Raleigh.
Address:
8732 Glenwood Avenue
Raleigh NC 27617
919-420-0005
Website: http://rainbowplayofnc.com/rainbow-party-room.html
Photos:
1. The front lawn play structures
2. The Rainbow Room
3. What to look for from the road
What we liked: The outside play area is great advertisement for them, and on a nice day, the kids can really run wild between all the play sets, far from the road and without having to wait turns for anything. If a rain shower blows in, the indoor play structure is huge, and has activities that range in difficulty so crawlers and big kids can find their fun. And it's likely you'll have the whole place to yourselves, I've never seen it crowded. If you're there during a downpour, the steel roof makes it sound really impressive!
What we would change: For some reason, when you put arcade games near a play area, little kids will always gravitate to them. There are about eight arcade games there, and since I want my kids to expend energy, it's a little bit of a hassle to keep them off the machines and back to climbing. Since the first goal of this business is to sell play systems and furniture, I don't think they have wi-fi, and the cell phone reception wasn't great.
How to find it: The store is located on Hwy 70 between Durham and Raleigh.
Address:
8732 Glenwood Avenue
Raleigh NC 27617
919-420-0005
Website: http://rainbowplayofnc.com/rainbow-party-room.html
Photos:
1. The front lawn play structures
2. The Rainbow Room
3. What to look for from the road
Monday, March 15, 2010
NC Botanical Gardens
What it is: A lovely conservation garden perfect for exploration, hiking and nature appreciation. A brand new Educational Center, recently opened to the public, provides even more opportunities for discovery.
Once you leave the parking lot, you can choose to head to the Educational Center, or take one of The Piedmont Natural Trails that leads you over bridges and streams, or walk straight into the garden where you will find just about every plant that can grow in North Carolina. A perfect spot for the tots is just inside the gates next to the Herb Garden. There is a gazebo that offers shade and a large digging area where you can bring your own garden tools and let the kids play in the dirt. They also have a mailbox which the kids open and close to their hearts content.
What we like: The herb garden is cool even on the hottest summer mornings. It’s a great place to escape into the peace and quiet (or as peaceful and quiet as it gets when you have kids around.) Plus, as you are immersed in all the beauty around you, you just might get inspired enough to do some gardening of your own. The people at the center are extremely helpful and friendly, and they always have brochures on hand for various educational classes available throughout the summer for your children.
What we would change: The Piedmont Nature Trails are not stroller friendly, but if you are okay with a slow meandering walk – it’s perfect for toddlers who are steady on their feet.
Website and other important information:
Website: http://ncbg.unc.edu/
Address: 100 Old Mason Farm Road, Chapel Hill, NC
Office Phone: 919-962-0522
Visiting Hours at the Display Gardens:
Weekdays, 8 am - 5 pm
Saturday, 9 am - 6 pm; Sunday, 1 - 6 pm
Note: The Piedmont Nature Trails, Coker Arboretum, and Battle Park are open from Dawn to Dusk every day of the year.
Once you leave the parking lot, you can choose to head to the Educational Center, or take one of The Piedmont Natural Trails that leads you over bridges and streams, or walk straight into the garden where you will find just about every plant that can grow in North Carolina. A perfect spot for the tots is just inside the gates next to the Herb Garden. There is a gazebo that offers shade and a large digging area where you can bring your own garden tools and let the kids play in the dirt. They also have a mailbox which the kids open and close to their hearts content.
What we like: The herb garden is cool even on the hottest summer mornings. It’s a great place to escape into the peace and quiet (or as peaceful and quiet as it gets when you have kids around.) Plus, as you are immersed in all the beauty around you, you just might get inspired enough to do some gardening of your own. The people at the center are extremely helpful and friendly, and they always have brochures on hand for various educational classes available throughout the summer for your children.
What we would change: The Piedmont Nature Trails are not stroller friendly, but if you are okay with a slow meandering walk – it’s perfect for toddlers who are steady on their feet.
Website and other important information:
Website: http://ncbg.unc.edu/
Address: 100 Old Mason Farm Road, Chapel Hill, NC
Office Phone: 919-962-0522
Visiting Hours at the Display Gardens:
Weekdays, 8 am - 5 pm
Saturday, 9 am - 6 pm; Sunday, 1 - 6 pm
Note: The Piedmont Nature Trails, Coker Arboretum, and Battle Park are open from Dawn to Dusk every day of the year.
Saturday, March 13, 2010
Eno River State Park
What it is: This is a beautiful state park surrounding the Eno River located in North Durham. There are camping sites, lots of hiking trails both along the river and through the hills, picnic areas, and great wildlife viewing. There are apparently five different parking areas, but we have only explored two of them. The two that we have been to are the "Cole Mill" area at the intersection of Cole Mill Rd. and Umstead Rd. and the "Fews Ford" area which is where Cole Mill Rd. dead ends at it's northernmost point.
We are most familiar with the "Cole Mill" parking area. Off of this parking area, the Cole Mill Trail is a nice 1.2 mile walking trail that follows the river for most of its length. Since you reach the river right after the hike starts it can be a great option for little ones that are walking themselves and may not make it very far. The Bobbitt's Hole Trail can be excellent for taking little ones in packs or older kids. It is a 1.65 mile loop, but the distance is a little longer because we access it off of the Cole Mill Trail. It ends at a pool of water, Bobbitt's Hole, which is a great place to explore. Depending on the strength of the current at the time of your visit, you can even jump in for a little swim. Usually we just stick to dipping our toes in and leave the swimming to the dog.
One of our other stir crazy moms has explored some other really neat parts of the park that we haven't made it to. Here's what she found:
The Fews Ford area has two areas that appeal a lot to kids. When you first enter the park from the end of Cole Mill Road, if you take the first turn on the right and park, you can hike down to Fews Ford. In olden days, you can imagine wagon carts using this ford to cross the river. Now it's a great place to let the little ones splash around in the summer, the water runs a foot deep with a gentle current. Older kids can take a dunk in the deeper swimming hole upstream. It's usually part-shade throughout the day, but sunscreen might be a good idea, as well as water shoes for the tender little feet (and bigger feet too). Crocs, keens, and tevas all work. It does get muddy, so don't bring nice clothes there.
Other times of the year, it's fun to explore the exciting swinging bridge and play house in the log cabin further down the trail. Park at the head of Fanny's Ford trail, and head down--after a cement portion, you'll reach a dirt trail winding down the hill to the riverside. Wear good shoes, especially after a rain. Our two-year-old hiked half the distance, our four-year-old did the whole thing without whining! At the bottom, turn right and follow the river to the swinging bridge, and read the impressive high-water mark! Once you cross, if you follow the trail heading left back along the river, after five minutes you will reach an old log cabin for the kids to play house in.
Another Eno River spot is the West Point on the Eno, which is part of the Durham Parks. Its address is 5101 N Roxboro Road, the entrance can be easy to miss. It has an old water-run grist mill, which on the weekends is open and operational, and you can even buy stone-ground cornmeal there (it's yummy for cornbread)! Below the mill, there's a pebble area for the kids to throw rocks or wade into the water (again, it's muddy, dress accordingly). Hike up past the picnic area, and you will find the catchment area where in the summer, you can rent canoes. I am told that further on up the trail is a big rock quarry which is now part of the reservoir system, and you can do more serious swimming there in clean clear water. The Eno River Association there runs nature classes and the Schoolhouse of Wonder summer camps.
What we like: This is the closest state park to us and it has all of the benefits of a state park. When you explore the trails you feel like you're out in the wilderness. When you visit the park you and your child can see wildlife such as turtles, birds, squirrels, and the occasional deer. You can see a variety of forest and river plant life. You can also just explore the water and the shore and you hike along. My toddler loves being outdoors, and this is one of the few places nearby where you can truly feel like you are out in the wilderness.
What we would change: Because it is the great outdoors, you do have to make sure you keep a close eye on your child. Some of the river banks are very steep, so you have to make sure your child doesn't fall in. After a big rain, the river can be pretty strong and swiftly moving. In addition, the hikes are long enough that if you would like to go on the whole trail, you will need a backpack to carry your toddler. The distance is probably too far for them to walk.
Website and Directions: The Eno River State Park is located in North Durham with several access points off of Cole Mill Rd.
Website: http://www.ncparks.gov/Visit/parks/enri/main.php
Address: 6101 Cole Mill Road, Durham, NC 27705-9275
GPS coordinates: 36.0783, -79.0050
Office Phone: 919-383-1686
Photos:
Below are views of the Cole Mill Trail taken in early March.
More great pictures of the Eno:
The end of Cole Mill Rd.
The swinging bridge in summer
The swinging bridge in winter
The Fews Ford trailhead
The Grist Mill at West Point on the Eno
We are most familiar with the "Cole Mill" parking area. Off of this parking area, the Cole Mill Trail is a nice 1.2 mile walking trail that follows the river for most of its length. Since you reach the river right after the hike starts it can be a great option for little ones that are walking themselves and may not make it very far. The Bobbitt's Hole Trail can be excellent for taking little ones in packs or older kids. It is a 1.65 mile loop, but the distance is a little longer because we access it off of the Cole Mill Trail. It ends at a pool of water, Bobbitt's Hole, which is a great place to explore. Depending on the strength of the current at the time of your visit, you can even jump in for a little swim. Usually we just stick to dipping our toes in and leave the swimming to the dog.
One of our other stir crazy moms has explored some other really neat parts of the park that we haven't made it to. Here's what she found:
The Fews Ford area has two areas that appeal a lot to kids. When you first enter the park from the end of Cole Mill Road, if you take the first turn on the right and park, you can hike down to Fews Ford. In olden days, you can imagine wagon carts using this ford to cross the river. Now it's a great place to let the little ones splash around in the summer, the water runs a foot deep with a gentle current. Older kids can take a dunk in the deeper swimming hole upstream. It's usually part-shade throughout the day, but sunscreen might be a good idea, as well as water shoes for the tender little feet (and bigger feet too). Crocs, keens, and tevas all work. It does get muddy, so don't bring nice clothes there.
Other times of the year, it's fun to explore the exciting swinging bridge and play house in the log cabin further down the trail. Park at the head of Fanny's Ford trail, and head down--after a cement portion, you'll reach a dirt trail winding down the hill to the riverside. Wear good shoes, especially after a rain. Our two-year-old hiked half the distance, our four-year-old did the whole thing without whining! At the bottom, turn right and follow the river to the swinging bridge, and read the impressive high-water mark! Once you cross, if you follow the trail heading left back along the river, after five minutes you will reach an old log cabin for the kids to play house in.
Another Eno River spot is the West Point on the Eno, which is part of the Durham Parks. Its address is 5101 N Roxboro Road, the entrance can be easy to miss. It has an old water-run grist mill, which on the weekends is open and operational, and you can even buy stone-ground cornmeal there (it's yummy for cornbread)! Below the mill, there's a pebble area for the kids to throw rocks or wade into the water (again, it's muddy, dress accordingly). Hike up past the picnic area, and you will find the catchment area where in the summer, you can rent canoes. I am told that further on up the trail is a big rock quarry which is now part of the reservoir system, and you can do more serious swimming there in clean clear water. The Eno River Association there runs nature classes and the Schoolhouse of Wonder summer camps.
What we like: This is the closest state park to us and it has all of the benefits of a state park. When you explore the trails you feel like you're out in the wilderness. When you visit the park you and your child can see wildlife such as turtles, birds, squirrels, and the occasional deer. You can see a variety of forest and river plant life. You can also just explore the water and the shore and you hike along. My toddler loves being outdoors, and this is one of the few places nearby where you can truly feel like you are out in the wilderness.
What we would change: Because it is the great outdoors, you do have to make sure you keep a close eye on your child. Some of the river banks are very steep, so you have to make sure your child doesn't fall in. After a big rain, the river can be pretty strong and swiftly moving. In addition, the hikes are long enough that if you would like to go on the whole trail, you will need a backpack to carry your toddler. The distance is probably too far for them to walk.
Website and Directions: The Eno River State Park is located in North Durham with several access points off of Cole Mill Rd.
Website: http://www.ncparks.gov/Visit/parks/enri/main.php
Address: 6101 Cole Mill Road, Durham, NC 27705-9275
GPS coordinates: 36.0783, -79.0050
Office Phone: 919-383-1686
Photos:
Below are views of the Cole Mill Trail taken in early March.
More great pictures of the Eno:
The end of Cole Mill Rd.
The swinging bridge in summer
The swinging bridge in winter
The Fews Ford trailhead
The Grist Mill at West Point on the Eno
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Rita's
What it is: Rita's is an frozen custard and Italian ice shop located in Southern Durham near Southpoint Mall. They specialize in various flavors of Italian ice and frozen custard and their combination of the two which they call a Gelati. It is a chain shop with stores located in many places around the country.
What we like: It's a different dessert treat than the norm. Their Gelati is something unique that I've never seen or tasted before, and it's pretty good. However, if your not up for trying the ice/custard combo, you can go simple and have either the custard or the ice on its own.
What we would change: It doesn't seem like quite as comfortable of a place to sit and eat with your toddler as some places. I think this is the case for a lot of ice cream stores. There's not a whole lot of seating, but it still doesn't seem like a place where its safe or acceptable to just let your toddler roam.
Website and other important information: Rita's is located at the intersection of Hwy 751 and Hwy 54 is South Durham near Southpoint mall in a Harris Teeter shopping center.
Website: http://www.ritasfranchises.com/stores/store.cfm/Hope%20Valley%20Commons-27707/store/1099
Hours: Monday-Sunday 12pm-9pm
Photos:
What we like: It's a different dessert treat than the norm. Their Gelati is something unique that I've never seen or tasted before, and it's pretty good. However, if your not up for trying the ice/custard combo, you can go simple and have either the custard or the ice on its own.
What we would change: It doesn't seem like quite as comfortable of a place to sit and eat with your toddler as some places. I think this is the case for a lot of ice cream stores. There's not a whole lot of seating, but it still doesn't seem like a place where its safe or acceptable to just let your toddler roam.
Website and other important information: Rita's is located at the intersection of Hwy 751 and Hwy 54 is South Durham near Southpoint mall in a Harris Teeter shopping center.
Website: http://www.ritasfranchises.com/stores/store.cfm/Hope%20Valley%20Commons-27707/store/1099
Hours: Monday-Sunday 12pm-9pm
Photos:
Friday, March 5, 2010
Forest Hills Park
*As of 2012, this park no longer has a sand area, but it is still a great place for some fun any time of year.
What it is: This park, located in central Durham has many amenities that make it enjoyable for parents and kids. It has sets of swings for both small and older kids that are across the playground from each other. There is one large play structure with an area that is appropriate and accessible for young toddlers. This play structure also includes some tall slides that are more appropriate for the older preschool crowd. The playground has a large sand area with two plastic houses and tables. During the summer this sandbox is partially fed by a water fountain that the kids love to play in. There's also a set of three large circular fountains that are turned on in the summer for kids to enjoy. It has a covered gazebo with a picnic table and is surrounded by large fields filled with huge trees. The park also includes other facilities such as restrooms, tennis courts, and more.
What we like: While this park is fun in the winter, it is fabulous in the summer! What makes this park unique is are the water features. If you go in the summer, make sure to have the little ones wear clothes they can get wet because they will want to run in through the fountains and play in the mud generated near the sandbox. The large trees leave plenty of room to spread out a blanket in the shade and have a picnic before the kids play on the playgrounds or in the fountains.
What we would change: While this playground is great, it can also be a little tricky in the summer to keep your little ones clean. If you don't wear clothes you can get dirty, you can be in trouble with the fountain that feeds into the sandbox. In addition, while I really like the play structure, the last time I went, I noticed that the tall slides were really very high up for toddlers. I felt I needed to be up there with my toddler so he wouldn't fall, but then the only really quick way down was one of the slides themselves. It took a while to walk back down to catch my kid at the bottom of the slide.
Website and other important information: This park is located in central Durham off of University Blvd. just up the road from it's intersection with 15-501.
Website: http://www.ci.durham.nc.us/gis_apps/parkapp/park.cfm?selVal=park&ParkNam=Forest+Hills+Park
Photos:
1. View of the park from the entrance
2. The large grassy fields with trees
3. The sandbox with concrete fountain in the background
4. Ring fountains that are turned on in the summer
What it is: This park, located in central Durham has many amenities that make it enjoyable for parents and kids. It has sets of swings for both small and older kids that are across the playground from each other. There is one large play structure with an area that is appropriate and accessible for young toddlers. This play structure also includes some tall slides that are more appropriate for the older preschool crowd. The playground has a large sand area with two plastic houses and tables. During the summer this sandbox is partially fed by a water fountain that the kids love to play in. There's also a set of three large circular fountains that are turned on in the summer for kids to enjoy. It has a covered gazebo with a picnic table and is surrounded by large fields filled with huge trees. The park also includes other facilities such as restrooms, tennis courts, and more.
What we like: While this park is fun in the winter, it is fabulous in the summer! What makes this park unique is are the water features. If you go in the summer, make sure to have the little ones wear clothes they can get wet because they will want to run in through the fountains and play in the mud generated near the sandbox. The large trees leave plenty of room to spread out a blanket in the shade and have a picnic before the kids play on the playgrounds or in the fountains.
What we would change: While this playground is great, it can also be a little tricky in the summer to keep your little ones clean. If you don't wear clothes you can get dirty, you can be in trouble with the fountain that feeds into the sandbox. In addition, while I really like the play structure, the last time I went, I noticed that the tall slides were really very high up for toddlers. I felt I needed to be up there with my toddler so he wouldn't fall, but then the only really quick way down was one of the slides themselves. It took a while to walk back down to catch my kid at the bottom of the slide.
Website and other important information: This park is located in central Durham off of University Blvd. just up the road from it's intersection with 15-501.
Website: http://www.ci.durham.nc.us/gis_apps/parkapp/park.cfm?selVal=park&ParkNam=Forest+Hills+Park
Photos:
1. View of the park from the entrance
2. The large grassy fields with trees
3. The sandbox with concrete fountain in the background
4. Ring fountains that are turned on in the summer
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Annabel's Tasty Meatballs
This recipe is from First Meals by Annabel Karmel
My toddler is an extremely picky eater. This is one of the few sources of protein that he actually really likes. The apple in them makes them really quite delicious, so whenever I make up a batch my husband and I also make sure to have spaghetti and meatballs for dinner! These meatballs are fairly easy to make, and they can be stored in the freezer and reheated for about 30-40 seconds for a quick toddler meal! Mine likes his cut up and dipped in ketchup.
In a mixing bowl, combine
- 1 lb. ground beef
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 T chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- 1 chicken bouillon cube dissolved in 2 T hot water
- 1 small apple, peeled and coarsely grated
- 1/2 t Worcestershire sauce
- pinch brown sugar
- salt and pepper, to taste
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
Petco
What it is: Petco is a large chain pet store near Southpoint Mall. We had all done lots of shopping for our various pets at this store, but we didn't realize exactly how valuable it was until we had toddlers. Toddlers can be entertained by watching the furry animals such as ferrets, guinea pigs, hamsters, and mice; reptiles such as snakes and bearded dragons; a few birds; countless different kinds of fish; or some kittens that are there for adoption. While you're there you can also buy anything that you need for your own pet.
What we like: We love how long a toddler can be interested in a simple pet store. It's one more place to go on a rainy day that they will enjoy. I always am a bit unsure about going in there when I am not purchasing anything, but no one has ever said one word to us.
What we would change: Of course, because it is a store, the toddlers can't have complete free reign and we have to be careful that we don't get in the way of any of the store employees or customers, but this is usually not a big deal.
Website and other important information: Petco is located near Southpoint Mall off of Rennaissance Parkway.
Website: www.petco.com
Hours:
Monday - Friday 9AM - 9PM
Saturday 9AM - 9PM
Sunday 10AM - 7PM
*While we haven't checked it out. I've also heard that the Petsmart off of 15-501 near its intersection with I-40 can be similarly entertaining with the added bonus of being within walking distance of a toy store, Learning Express.
What we like: We love how long a toddler can be interested in a simple pet store. It's one more place to go on a rainy day that they will enjoy. I always am a bit unsure about going in there when I am not purchasing anything, but no one has ever said one word to us.
What we would change: Of course, because it is a store, the toddlers can't have complete free reign and we have to be careful that we don't get in the way of any of the store employees or customers, but this is usually not a big deal.
Website and other important information: Petco is located near Southpoint Mall off of Rennaissance Parkway.
Website: www.petco.com
Hours:
Monday - Friday 9AM - 9PM
Saturday 9AM - 9PM
Sunday 10AM - 7PM
*While we haven't checked it out. I've also heard that the Petsmart off of 15-501 near its intersection with I-40 can be similarly entertaining with the added bonus of being within walking distance of a toy store, Learning Express.
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