Urban Mushroom Forest

I was walking along on campus last week and spotted this giant clump of mushrooms. For going to school in the middle of the city, I see some things you'd never expect to find there. This is a great example. Just last week I was walking out of one of the buildings and a hawk flew just five feet over my head with a giant squirrel in its talons. amazing! 

Happy Summer!

Its the first official day of summer. For me, and most of us who live in the United States, summer starts on Memorial Day. For ancient civilizations all over the world, today is the day! Here's a picture of Stonehenge, the ancient monument where people in England gather to celebrate summer and winter solstices. The longest day of the year, June 21st is the day for all kinds of festivals, bonfires, courting rituals, flower gathering, and other spiritual and fun activities. So go outside, strip down naked, and dance around the bonfire...or, just get together with some friends, make some sangria and toast to wonderful summer!

photo credit: Andrew Dunn

Did you say Free?

It's supposed to rain this weekend in Kansas City. But I hear only on Saturday. Here are some things to do, inside and outside for free.  Go to the Rivermarket Antique Mall (really, if this trip remains free is up to you) it is so fun to just walk around that place, and it can last all day. There are some great finds there, from home decor, to tools, clothes, paintings, whatever.  Or, why not visit the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art? Their permanent collection is free to view and if you haven't been there in a while, you can check out the newer wing of modern art or take a look at their American art collection, which was just revamped last year. For some great things to do outside, drive on down to Parkville and walk around English Landing Park, swing on swings, slide down slides, hang out in the gazebo or just walk the trail by the river. Refreshing and romantic. The Parkville Nature Sanctuary is also beautiful, I always see a deer or two while I am there and they have great little benches to take a rest on. One has my favorite poem on a plaque by Richard Braughtigan on it. Love this place. You can also drive out to the State Park in Weston, Mo. Beautiful trails and a great place to reconnect with nature after being cooped up in the house all winter. Whatever you do this weekend, have fun!