american west, california, Camping, Hiking, national parks, outdoors, Travel, writing

Backpacking the Angeles: Hoegees Camp and Spruce Grove

The Angeles National Forest has a number of trails and camps that can make for a fun backpacking adventure. The Gabrielino Trail and other trails in Big Santa Anita Canyon made for a fun introductory backpacking weekend close to Los Angeles.

Dog, dogs, Family, Hiking, outdoors, Pets, Travel, Uncategorized

Great Hikes: With Dogs

In this first of a two-part series, the Cranky Camper considers what conditions she looks for when planning a hike with dogs. Also listed here are several dog-friendly hikes in the San Gabriel Mountains.

Beaches, california, Family, holidays, Kids, outdoors, photography, Style, Travel, Vacation

Good Times and Sunny Climes at the Beach

Living in Southern California, there are many places for relaxing along the coast. Here are a few of our favorite beaches in Los Angeles and Orange Counties.

Home Improvement, Kids, Landscaping, outdoors, School, Uncategorized

School Beautiful: Desert Landscapes

As part of a school beautification project through the Cub Scouts, we landscaped a previously bare area of the school utilizing drought-tolerant and native plants, as well as some special touches. The project also aimed to instill in Scouts principles of service, sustainability, conservation, and teamwork.

Amusement Parks, california, Family, Florida, Shopping, Travel, Vacation, writing

Magic Kingdom vs. Disneyland

The third article in the Disney World 2K17 series compares the family's experiences at Disney World's Magic Kingdom with the Disneyland park in Anaheim, California.