Historic Tours of Parker Mill

My daughter watching with wonder how the
Parker Mill grist mill works. Take your family
on a free tour this October!

Sundays throughout September and October from 1:00-5:00 p.m. families can get a free tour of the Parker Grist Mill (4650 Geddes Rd, Ann Arbor). Parker Mill is one of a few remaining pioneer grist mills still operational in southeastern Michigan.  Come and learn how the Parker family used water power to grind corn and wheat, turn a lathe and run other machines in their mill.  Your family can stop by anytime to visit, but a more formal detailed tour will begin at 3:00 for interested visitors.

My children have been there many times. In fact when we stopped by the other day after making our cider, they knew so much that they could almost lead the tour themselves. Oddly enough they continue to enjoy the wonders of watching the grist mill operate!

Bring along your camera too for photo ops. Parker Mill is one of the nicest natural places to take family photos too!!!

Arrows Away Program: Free Event

Many of you know that I am an avid fan of "free events." That's really why the blog started! I am also an avid scouter and enjoy taking the kids outdoors. We do have our own archery equipment but don't use it often enough, and that's one reason to share this fantastic FREE event.

The Arrows Away program is a free program at the Waterloo State Recreation area (and other state lands) that teaches the traditional outdoor skill of Archery through fun, safe instruction. All equipment and instruction is provided for kids ages 8 and up. I have attended several sessions with my children and have even taken scouting groups out there! To make the date even longer, we hiked some as well as explored the Eddy Discovery Center!

Dates for the program vary throughout the summer and all programs are at the Eddy Discovery Center. Be sure to check their weekly listing for this wonderful program!

Michigan Free Fishing Weekend

The size of the fish is measured by a
kid's smile! Enjoy free fishing in
Michigan this weekend.

Every year the Michigan DNR sponsors free fishing weekends, with June 8-9, being one of them. Although kids can always fish for free, if you are a non-fishing adult, this is a great time to check out the sport and introduce your kids to fishing. Besides you can get out in nature together! All fishing license fees will be waived for the weekend, however all fishing regulations will still apply. That's right it's FREE fishing!

 There are some ideal Washtenaw County fishing spots for families available. My kids especially like the ease of fishing off the docks at Rolling Hills. While there are very few "keepers" caught there, you can be assured that the kids will catch something - This alleviates the long wait times often associated with fishing. Of course this also spoils your children a bit, but seeing their faces when catching fish, well that's priceless!

Events on Free Fishing Weekend

Free Fishing programs are also happening through Washtenaw County Parks and Recreation at Rolling Hills park from 10:00 a.m. - noon on June 10 or at Independence Lake Park, on June 11 from 10:00 a.m. - noon.  Poles, bait and instruction are provided for this free event. available. Pre-registration is required at parksonline.ewashtenaw.org, (June 10: Section A:10-11/B:11-noon ; June 11 Section C: 10-11/ D: 11-noon). This event has a maximum of 15 people per session so be sure to register soon!

Hook Line & Sinker - Learn to fish with the DNR! Rods, bait and instructions will be provided at the Waterloo Recreation Area, Crooked Lake fishing pier in Chelsea at 10:00 a.m.

There were not many events listed at the time of publishing, but the State of Michigan has a partial list of Free Fishing Weekend events.

Want to learn to fish but can't get out this weekend? Then the Hook, Line and Sinker program with the DNR might be up your ally. Learn casting and fishing basics with a borrowed rod and reel if you don't have your own equipment. Hook, Line and Sinker programs begin in mid-June and continue throughout the summer. There is one Saturday, June 4, 10 a.m. At Crooked Lake Fishing Pier in Washtenaw County!

So make a date with the kids or start a new tradition while having some great fishing fun. It's time to enjoy that Michigan fishing!

Visiting the Sugarbush: Maple Syrup Events for the Family

I love real maple syrup. It's yummy on pancakes and waffles and even used as an ice cream topping! I even love making homemade maple syrup with the family, it's easy to do and yields wonderful results. If you don't want to make your own though, in Washtenaw County and close to Ann Arbor, there are several places where families can go to learn about maple syrup, it's history and how to make your own maple syrup!

March 23: Visit Belleville for Maple Sugaring Through the Ages (10:00 a.m., 2:00 p.m.) at the
Oakwoods Metropark Nature Center (17845 Savage Road, Belleville, MI 48111). Learn about the methods used to collect maple sap and how the maple tree sustained early Americans. Preregister at (734) 782-3956.

Starting February 24 on weekends at the  Hudson Mills Activity Center (8801 N. Territorial Rd., Dexter) families can Journey to the Sugar Bush on a guided tour traveling back in time to experience how maple syrup has been made over the years. While you are there, enjoy an all you can eat pancake and sausage breakfast served from 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. The guided tour (10:00, 11:00 a.m. and noon and by appointment) is $5/Adult or $3/Children  Breakfast (additional):  $6/Adults or $4/Children.  Please pre-register at (734) 426-8211

Starting February 23, Arbor families can take a short drive to visit learn "Maples Sweet Story" at Kensington Metropark (2240 W. Buno Rd., Milford). Tours are given every half hour from noon until 3:00 p.m. where families can learn about maple sugaring. Stop in for a hot breakfast from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Farmhouse Grille, and then head on a guided tour to the sugar bush to see the maple sugaring process, including tapping trees and boiling down the sap. You might even see some Native American re-enactors telling the tale of the sugarbush!  For more information call 800-477-3178800-477-3178. A Metroparks vehicle entry permit is required to enter any Metropark in addition to a small fee of $3/adults and $1/seniors and children 3 to 12 years; kids under 3 are free.

Real maple syrup is very much worth the effort and worth checking out, so if your children would enjoy trying something a little different, be sure to check out the full list of Metroparks Maple Syrup programs and events around Ann Arbor in the coming month! Or if you feel up to the challenge try your hand at making maple syrup with your family, it's really easy to do.

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Winter Fun Fest

Get your Winter Fun Fest passport stamped
at three events and get a free t-shirt and tote bag!

Many of my readers will know that I am a scout leader for both of my children. My son is now in Boy Scouts and I am his Assistant Scoutmaster and my daughter is a Junior Girl Scout. What makes scouting amazing to me is the amount of outdoor activities the scouts do. The non scouting part of me also likes to be outdoors - Playing sports, hiking, sitting in the woods or foraging for good eats. Basically the outdoors is a big part of our lives.

This winter your family can enjoy the outdoors too during the Winter Fun Fest happening throughout Washtenaw County. Winter Fun Fest runs from January 27th until Feburary 25th with over 20 fun winter events in three weeks! Whether you like warming up by the fireplace with a cup of hot cocoa or tromping through the freshly fallen snow, we've got something for everyone to enjoy.

 At the first event you attend you can pick up your Fun Fest Passport - if you attend three events in the next three weeks, you will win a free T-Shirt or Tote! A full list of Winter Fun Fest events can be found here: http://www.ewashtenaw.org/government/departments/parks_recreation/activities/winter-fun-fest/calendar-of-events-winter-fun-fest

Did I mention that these are free events? Certainly there may be some parks that require an entry fee but get ready to have some free fun with the family!

Fall Color Hikes

Fall is the perfect time to get outdoors. The weather is cool and crisp and the colors are bold and beautiful. To experience fall in it's full glory though, why not consider taking a fall color hike? The Ann Arbor Mom blog has pulled together a couple options for fall color hikes too.

On October 22, at 2:00 p.m. at Scio Woods Preserve, spend the afternoon hiking with a naturalist led program enjoying the beautiful changing colors while hiking through beech maple forests. For more information, contact (734) 971-6337 ext 330 or boldak@ewashtenaw.org.

The annual Fall Color Hike, presented by the Potawatomi Trail Committee is another excellent way to see Michigan's color in all of it's glory. The 5-mile hike is perfect for families to enjoy and costs just $5/person (cash, check or credit card) and happens this year on October 14 and 15. Registration begins at 9:00 a.m. and ends at 2:00 p.m. although hikers can stay on the trail until 4:00 p.m. To participate, hikers will begin and end at Camp Munhacke (20120 Bartell Rd. Gregory).

My family has hiked the Potawatomi Trail several times, even when my daughter was as young as 4! It's a good hike and very well marked. Typically there are many that you will encounter along the way, so this is a perfect event for novice hikers.

When you head out for your fall hike, be sure to take a lightweight pack with snacks, water and your camera!

Pioneer Days at the Waterloo Farm Museum

On Sunday, October 8, noon-5:00 p.m. at the Waterloo Farm Museum (13493 Waterloo Munith Rd, Waterloo, MI) families can celebrate late 19th century farm life! This event includes tours of the Farm Museum and Dewey School, live music, and demonstrations of crafts, trades, and traditional cooking methods. Admission to the Waterloo Farm Museum grounds for this event is $5 for adults and $2 for children aged 5-12, free admission is granted for children under 5 and members of the Waterloo Area Historical Society.

Now in its fifth decade, Pioneer Day at the Waterloo Farm Museum is the premier event on the Waterloo Area Historical Society's calendar. A visit to the Farm Museum and tour includes a complex of farm buildings including the restored ten-room Farmhouse dating from 1855. In the Farmhouse kitchen you will be greeted by the delicious smells of Sunday dinner being readied for the dining room table. A docent in every room will be your guide as you tour the house set with utensils, furniture, clothing, and other household items of the time.

I know my kids especially enjoy the demonstrations of butter making in the Spring House, hearth cooking in the Log House, brick-oven baking in the Bake House, and blacksmithing in the workshop.

Be sure to head out this weekend for this wonderful educational opportunity!

Pittsfield Township Annual Harvest Fest

On Sunday September 18, 2:00-5:00 p.m., Ann Arbor area families can enjoy the Pittsfield Township Annual Harvest Festival at the  Sutherland-Wilson Farm Museum (797 Textile Rd., Ann Arbor). Hear the sounds of the Saline Fiddlers, enjoy hay rides, games, a petting farm, and hands on demonstrations. Hand-made items will also be for sale.

Tour historic building and see photo displays as well. A bake sale and pumpkin picking can also be enjoyed. There will be everything we love about the fall!

COST:
Adult Wristbands (ages 16+) $5.00
Child Wristbands (ages 3 – 15) $3.00
Free admission Children 2 and under

Schedule of Events:
2:00 p.m. Welcome Message & Event Kick off
2:15 p.m. Saline Fiddlers
2:15 - 5:00 p.m. House Tours
3:30 p.m. Prizes in the Straw (under 4)
3:40 p.m. Prizes in the Straw (ages 5+)

Free Parking & Shuttle available at Harvest Elementary (1155 Campus Pkwy). For more information visit the Harvest Festival website or the Harvest Festival Event on Facebook!

Discounted Michigan Renaissance Festival Tickets

I know it's not a local event, however the  Michigan Renaissance Fest (12600 Dixie Hwy, Holly, MI) is a great experience to have at least once in your life. Mom, dad and the kids are sure to enjoy spending the day on the grounds exploring all there is to see, do and eat!

When I was in college I spent a season at the festival as a street performer. it was a lot of long days and hard work, but I loved it. It was an experience like no other. I've been wanting to take my kids to the festival for the past few summers, but for one reason or another, we were unable to go. When I saw this amazing ticket deal though, I couldn't pass up going.

Get your discount MichiganRenaissance Festival tickets today! 

Right now CBS local is offering deeply discount tickets - $11/adult and $6.50/kids ages 5-12 - That's over a 50% discount on Michigan Renaissance Festival tickets! I know that the day will cost much more with food and all, but for this price, I can afford to take the entire family for a day of fun.

From past experiences, I can recommend getting there early to park. It's difficult to say how different things will be now, I noticed that a few friends still performing (like my friend Rob from Pippin Puppets) with many new acts being offered. I can't wait to share the experience with the kids! The Festival runs weekends & Labor Day, from 10am-7pm, from August 22nd thru October 4th, PLUS Festival Friday, October 2nd. Then after the festival, get in the spooky spirit of the Halloween season with fun activities at Halloween In Hollygrove with discounted ticket prices of $25 for one-entry to the Horton Lake Outbreak At Halloween In Hollygrove or $27.50 for one-ticket to the Phantom's Feast At Halloween In Hollygrove.

One hint to new comers. Don't ask any of the street performers where the restrooms are...  Then again, go ahead and prompt your kids to do it for you. You may get a big surprise!

My friend Rob of Pippin Puppets with my kids in 2013.

Now I need to go try and dig up a photo or two of my Ren Fest days...  The kids will get a kick out of that!






Disclaimer: I do have an affiliate link through CBS Local and may receive compensation as a result of blogging about this deal. My tickets were however purchased.  

Celebrate Michigan’s Log Cabin Day at Parker Mill

On Sunday, June 26, families can celebrate Michigan’s Log Cabin Day by touring a pioneer grist mill and Parker Mill log cabin during Log Cabin Day in Michigan. Visit a 1880’s log cabin to imagine what it's like to live in this log home in pioneer days. There might even be some pioneer “chores” for your kids to do - Gather water, wash clothes, or try your hand on an antique weaving loom. Make it a day or stop by for an hour, the program runs from 1:00-4:00 p.m. and children are encouraged to dress in their best pioneer clothing!

Family Campouts in Washtenaw County

I mentioned the Washtenaw County Parks & Recreation Family Campouts in a recent article on inexpensive family camping options, however I wanted to make sure all of my readers saw these amazing opportunities. We have participated several times and have LOVED the experience despite being a family of scouts who camps often. The closeness and convenience of the weekend has been lot of fun for us. Be sure to register early for the programs though, as they do fill up rather quickly. The events often offer crafts, fishing, nature programs, a night hike, and more for just $7/person. Pre-registration is required though by contacting contact Brian at polewayb@ewashtenaw.org or
(734) 484-9676 x.205.

August 6-7 and 13-14: Family Camp Out at Rolling Hills Park
September 10 - 11: Family Campout at Independence Lake Park

I also suggest that if you are a Girl Scout leader with Daisy's or full of inexperienced families, this makes a GREAT camping option and the programming is mostly already done for you.

Geocaching 101

On Saturday, May 14, experience Geocaching 101 at the Eddy Discovery Center  (17030 Bush Rd., Chelsea | (734)475-3170). Families will learn the basics of this popular past-time at one of three instructional sessions (11:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m., and 1:00 p.m.) Learn to use a GPS unit (or bring your own) and have fun hunting for prizes. Instructions and clues for the hunt will be available inside the Discovery Center with GPS coordinates provided. Just show up for this fun and free event!

Butterfly Festival at UM Museum of Natural History

On Saturday, May 14, 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. families should plan to attend the Butterfly Festival and the University of Michigan Museum of Natural History. This free event will have live butterflies and teach kids about the life cycle and lifestyles of butterflies. Stay for this enjoyable spring event and help plant in the Museum’s Butterfly and Pollinator Garden, or make your very own butterfly wings to take home.

Free Tickets: Alexander, Who’s Not Not Not Not Not Not Going to Move

On Sunday, April 10 at 1:30 p.m. at the Michigan Theater, children (grades K-4) and their families should consider seeing the youth theatre production of Alexander, Who’s Not Not Not Not Not Not Going to Move. The show, part of the Benard L. Maas Not Just for Kids series, is about a young boy named Alexander, and what happens when he finds out that his family is moving. Join Alexander as he learns that home is “where your family is” and that change can be exciting.

Tickets for this youth theatre production are available at the box office or at Ticketmaster.com for $12.00 each. Ann Arbor Blog parents though have the opportunity to win a family (4) pack by commenting below on what you would say to your children in the event of a move. All entries received by Thursday, March 31 will be entered into a random drawing.

March Building Clinics for Kids

Find the fun building clinics being offered in March on the Ann Arbor Mom Blog. The nice thing about these events is that they are both free and perfect for kids ages 5-12. My kids have participated in many if these free building clinics and have loved every one they have participated in.

Build a Toy Wagon: This hands-on workshop at Home Depot allows kids to build a real rolling toy wagon for their tiny toys. Once the wagon is built, your child can decorate it with The Home Depot stickers. All participants get to keep their craft, receive a FREE certificate of achievement, a Workshop Apron, and a commemorative pin (while supplies last).

To register for this free event on, visit the Home Depot website. This program is on Saturday, March 5, 9:00 a.m.until noon.

Hike to Arbor Woods Preserve

On Sunday, Oct. 25, 2:00-4:00 p.m., families can enjoy great fall weather by hiking at Northfield Woods Preserve (East Northfield Church Road, Ann Arbor). Plan to meet at this preserve lot since there is no parking lot for Arbor Woods. Families will hike from Northfield Woods to the mature wooded area of Arbor Woods to explore this new preserve.

On the hike, families will look at wildflowers and grasses, id some trees and shrubs, look for signs of
wildlife and more. Naturalist Faye Stoner leads this walk.

This is a free program. Call 971- 6337 for general information; use extension 334 or email stonerf@ewashtenaw.org to reach Faye.

Autumn Bird Walk

On Sunday, Oct. 18 9:00-11:00 am, families can enjoy the sights and sounds of many of Michigan's birds during the Woods, Water and Wetlands  Autumn Morning Bird Walk at Independence Lake (  3200 Jennings Rd, Whitmore Lake). Interested families should plan to meet at the Blue Heron Bay parking lot shortly before 9:00. Plan to look for resident and migrating birds in a variety of habitats.

This free event is perfect for beginning birders and all are welcome. Please bring binoculars and bird book if you can.  A few binoculars will be on hand for sharing.

Naturalist Faye Stoner will lead this walk!

Win Tickets to See The Wiggles!

Want to win a family (4) pack of tickets to see The Wiggles on October 11, 2015 at 1:00 p.m.? Read on for details on winning this prize pack valued at $98.

The tickets will be placed at will call in the Fox Box Office for pickup when you and/or your winner arrive for the show.  Please send me a link to your post once the giveaway is up and running, as well as your winner's name once you have it.

Below are the copy and image you may use on your blog for the promotion.

September 14-18

The Wiggles, will return to the U.S. this fall with their incomparable brand of preschool entertainment for their “Rock & Roll Preschool” tour. Ready to once again delight families at the Fox Theatre on Sunday, October 11 at 1:00 p.m., they will be touring in support of their brand new CD and DVD, Rock & Roll Preschool, as well as a new season of their hit TV series airing on Hulu.

Tickets ($18, $24.50, $34.50 and $60) are on sale now and can be purchased at OlympiaEntertainment.com,  The Fox Theatre and Joe Louis Arena box offices,and at all Ticketmaster locations and Ticketmaster.com. To charge tickets by phone, call (800) 745-3000.  Discounts for groups of 10 or more are available by calling 313-471-3099. For additional information, call (313) 471-6611.

Don’t want to miss your chance to see this highly entertaining quartet? Just for Ann Arbor Mom readers, tell us about your best Wiggles moment in the comments below. A random entry from all comments posted by midnight, September 18, will be chosen to win (4) free tickets to see the Wiggles!  

Michigan State Fair 50% Discount Ultimate Wristband Tickets!

I have many fond memories of wandering the Michigan State Fair. I loved seeing all of the livestock exhibits, the homemaker and arts exhibits and the baby animal exhibits. I was always amazed at what other kids displayed and dreamed of winning a ribbon. Then one sad day the Michigan State Fair went away.

Several years ago I finally entered several jars of canned goods, photography and other pieces of art in the Saline Community Fair. Although it was not the exact same thing, I was excited that I won the ribbon that I had dreamed of. I have since submitted entries for the past several years and have even gotten the kids on the action after they realized they could earn a few dollars if their displays won!

I'll admit, I have not gone to the Fifth Third Bank Michigan State Fair since they moved to the Suburban Collection Showplace in Novi. That was mostly due to us traveling at that time the last few years. It looks like this year however I'll be able to take my kids to the fair for their own experiences. The best part is, I can get Fifth Third Bank Michigan State Fair tickets at 50% off right now! That's a great family deal and definitely one to scoop up now!

The Fifth Third Bank Michigan State Fair runs September 4-7, 2015 at the Suburban Collection Showplace (46100 Grand River Ave., Novi MI 48374). Ticket prices start as low as $8 for entry into the fair, however on the website, they are offering an Ultimate Wristband for $30 which includes unlimited carnival rides, the exhibit hall, the agriculture and home arts shows, free entertainment, and a performance of the Shrine Circus.  You can get 50% off Michigan State Fair tickets though through July 26! That's just $15 for the Ultimate-Wristband and all that it entails!

We're going to attend this year, will you take the family to the fair?



Note - Some friends were confused by the mention of Fifth Third Bank. They are the sponsors and not where you pick-up tickets. The discount voucher reads like this: "Please print and present voucher or present on mobile phone at the Fifth Third Bank Michigan State Fair and visit the Carrot Pass/QR code experience line for express entry and to redeem voucher." Also note that you are limited to buying (4) tickets for yourself and (4) tickets for a friend with this deal!

Win Free Strawberry Shortcake at the Belleville National Strawberry Festival

Win (4) free strawberry shortcakes ($16 value) during
Belleville's National Strawberry Festival June 19-21.

For YEARS before my children came along, I have enjoyed Strawberry Festival time. When the kids were born it became even more special. We enjoy the crafts, activities and events that happen during Belleville's National Strawberry Festival. We were happy to end up joining a church that promoted the event too and even happier to learn that our church makes the most amazing Strawberry pies and shortcakes! That's one reason why I love this opportunity to share with Ann Arbor Mom readers this great give-away.

Since 1977, Trinity Episcopal Church has been a part of the National Strawberry Festival in Belleville, which is held yearly over Father’s Day weekend. Visitors come from all over southeast Michigan for the famous homemade sloppy joes and glazed strawberry pies offered. Imagine a pie filled with four pounds of fresh berries! Don't have time to stop in to the church and eat out back? Don't worry as I have personally observed MANY visitors even stopping by just to pick up their pie.

It is best though to stop in and stay a while. Come for the craft show or enjoy many tasty treats in a comfortable, family friendly atmosphere. Nachos, sloppy nachos, 100% beef hot dogs, strawberry shortcake, sundaes, and smoothies are just a few of their delicious offerings. In addition to the fresh glazed strawberry pies, their bakery tent sells homemade strawberry bread and muffins, strawberry freezer jam, cheesecake, and tarts. They also offer no-sugar-added and gluten-free options. Food tent and bakery menus can be found on the Trinity Episcopal Church Strawberry Fest page of the website too!

I am proud too, that my children have had the opportunity to work alongside many volunteers during the festival, and that half of the proceeds from Trinity’s Strawberry Festival activities go back into the community. Your support helps support local services and projects while the other half supports special projects in the church.

In addition to their craft show, bakery and good food, this year Trinity will also have live entertainment on Friday and Saturday evening and a free Kid Zone on Saturday and Sunday with crafts and games and special guest appearances by Disney’s Princesses Anna and Elsa.

Let Trinity Episcopal Church is the first Strawberry Festival stop you see on Belleville Road when you exit I-94 heading into Belleville. They will be open on Friday, June 19 (4:00-9:00 p.m.), Saturday, June 20 (10:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m.), and Sunday, June 21 (11:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.) Credit cards will be accepted at the bakery and food tent and parking is free. Find more information about the event at the Strawberry Festival Facebook Event Page for Trinity Episcopal Church.

Trinity is also one of the National Strawberry Festival Trolley stops.

Want another reason to stop at Trinity during Strawberry Festival? How about winning (4) FREE Strawberry shortcakes to eat there or take home? Now for Ann Arbor mom readers, comment below for your chance to win. Comment on Facebook for a second entry too. Just tell us which product your family likes best: A - Strawberry shortcake, B - - Strawberry pie, C - Strawberry smoothies, D - Strawberry cheesecake or E - ANYTHING strawberries!!!

All entries must be submitted by midnight Wednesday, June 17.