How to Create Your Own Family Adventure

From camping in the backyard, to hiking at different state parks, to exploring our "backyard", our family is always up for an adventure and this summer has made a point of planning an adventure each week.  Here are some tips and ideas to help you and your family to make your own fun and go on an adventure of your own: 

Knee High by the 4th of July

The 4th of July is a great time to celebrate our country's independence, show off your patriotism, spend time with family and friends, shoot off fireworks and check crops.  It's been tradition for decades that farmers check their crops, especially corn, to see if it is "Knee High by the 4th of July."  Now while knee high isn't the benchmark for farmers anymore due to hybridization and improved genetics, it is still a fun tradition for our family to benchmark our corn (and family's) growth every year (see 2019, 2018, 2017, 2016, 2015, 2014, 2013 and 2012).

Iowa Ice Cream Road Trip at Sweet Treats in Jewell, Iowa

We wrapped up our 7th Annual Iowa Ice Cream Road Trip by stopping at Sweet Treats in Jewell, Iowa.  This seasonal ice cream stand serves homemade ice cream every night during the summer and is popular at area events in their ice cream truck, as well as a long time vendor at the Des Moines Farmers Market.

Iowa Ice Cream Road Trip at WW Homestead Dairy

Week Three of our Iowa Ice Cream Road Trip brought us to Waukon, Iowa, home of WW Homestead Dairy.  WW Homestead Dairy is owned by two multi-generation dairy families that produce a variety of farm-fresh dairy products including over 30 flavors of homemade ice cream!

3 Weekly Habits for Every Mom

One of the best ways for a busy Mom to stay organized and improve her mindset is to create routines and helpful habits.  The three weekly habits will help you get yourself focused and prepared for the week ahead.

Iowa Ice Cream Road Trip at Dan & Debbie's Creamery in Ely, Iowa

Week Two of our 2020 Iowa Ice Cream Road Trip brought us to the small town of Ely, Iowa, home to Dan & Debbie's Creamery, who sell farm-fresh, wholesome dairy products including over a dozen small batch ice creams.

Iowa Ice Cream Road Trip at Bristow Ice Cream Shack

For the last seven years our family has went on an Iowa Ice Cream Road Trip every June in recognition of National Dairy Month.  To start off this year's road trip we stayed fairly close to home and checked out the Bristow Ice Cream Shack, serving up soft serve ice cream treats during the summer at Memorial Park next to the town's Splash Pad.