Use Our Parks

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London Hyde Park

In California a city park is rarely used except for soccer practice and the playground area. It seems as though we turn to other options for our family outings rather than a simple day at the park.
After a recent visit to London, England I realized that families in California(I can't speak for other cities or states) do not take advantage of our beautiful land. In London a park is located every few blocks. In each park people were gathered to eat, chat, or just relax. They were on the benches and on the grass constantly. I also noticed that these were adults using the parks. I didn't see playgrounds or sandlots.
Last weekend we went to a local park near the beach. We took chairs, blankets, soccer ball, and a Frisbee for our entertainment. My husband, children and I had a great afternoon being a family in the park.
Go outside and enjoy your land. It's beautiful out there.

Alcohol & Legal Drinking Age

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Kids seem to experiment at such an early age nowadays; it makes me wonder if we should change our ways. While on the Eurotrain from Paris to London we sat and talked with an English family. They have grown children, and stated that their kids all became "drunks" when they turned 18. They said that if England followed the wine at the dinner table at an early age like neighboring France, maybe less binging would go on.

It really did make sense. The same drinking binges happen in the United States. Kids hurt themselves or others from the effects of drinking. Is this a simple solution?

My city just made a new Social Hosting Ordinance that will charge any adult hosting an alcohol party/gathering for minors. This is great considering our new city name is "Party City" to the teens near and far. 

Unfortunately, I do not have a solution, but I do know that my own children are spoken to early on. We share stories about drinking, and the effects it can have. We can only do so much, but I can tell you this... With open communication, and having our home open to their friends; we can help them become a little more responsible.

Meal for Thought

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Earlier this month my husband and I were fortunate enough to take the Eurostar (Train) from Paris to London. This is no ordinary train ride. You travel through the English Channel to the beautiful countryside of England. I only wish the tunnel through the channel was clear like you were at the shark encounter at Sea World.


On the ride we were served rather nice meals. My husband and I had already selected the vegetarian meal. We were offered wine, beer or soft drinks along with a warm wash cloth to clean our hands. The meals came and we were very impressed with our delicious mushroom and cheese tortellini. Sides were to perfect as well as the dessert. Now the others on the train had their choice of beef or chicken. The family across from us chose beef. Well needless to say my food looked far better than what ever they were eating. 


I'm not putting down the selection that was offered, but always think that a vegetarian meal may be a great choice. 


I will always remember the Eurostar as it took me to one of my (now) favorite places.