Tree-huggers unite!

I like my crabbyapple tree. It's pretty, it provides the only shade near the backyard, and the apples don't fall on the ground and make a mushy mess like other apple trees. Apparently the kids like it too...

Since the kids love trees so much, we got some free passes to the UMN Arboretum. It's quite a drive from here, but we had a blast. It's hard to explain, but it's a huge garden with lots of walking paths and benches to sit and reflect, and of course lots of open areas to run for the kids. It's owned by the UMN (University of Minnesota), and they use it for research in developing new and disease-resistant plants. It's a fun place to go if you're thinking of planting any new plants in your yard, because they have sections (ex: crabapples, roses, shrubs) and each plant has a little sign identifying it. I chose several rose bushes that I would like someday, but James conveniently forgot their names already.

My favorite spot was the rose garden. It was circular, and in the middle was a reflecting pool with benches all around. It was such a peaceful spot. The kids, however, loved the play areas scattered throughout. They had a really great play area cleared out that was nothing but sticks, canvas, and some downed logs. Sometimes we get so wrapped up in the neighborhood parks with all their gizmos and gadgets that we forget kids love using their imaginations. Alex built himself a teepee there and was very proud of it.


Not much new with James and I. We're heading back to MI in about a week and a half for a good friend's wedding, so we're trying to get ready for that. Since it's apple season, I've been doing a lot of baking. We haven't been to an orchard yet this year, but I think we're going to try to go this week. I love apple cider, and haven't bought any yet this year, so it's about time!