Some destinations have a way of putting you in vacation mode the second you arrive. San Diego KOA Resort is one of these places. The moment we pulled into the campground, the sight of shimmering pool water, luxury cabins, rustic tent sites, and colorful RVs put me in a state of happy relaxation.

My recent fall getaway to the KOA began when we checked into a spacious Deluxe Cabin overlooking the pool. With enough room to sleep six people, the cabin came with a full bedroom, a small room with bunk beds, a loft with a bed, a bathroom with tub and shower, and full kitchen with fridge, microwave, coffee maker, stove and oven, pots and pans, silverware, and a small bar with chairs.

The cabin, which was more “glamping” than camping, also boasted a large wooden porch with couch and chairs, and a side yard with fire pit and a gas BBQ with a full tank of propane.

When not relaxing in the cabin, we had fun playing around the 40-acre campground, which offered everything we needed for a mini, three-day glamping adventure. We enjoyed renting a four-wheel bike, jumping on a giant bouncy pillow, mining for treasures, playing in a kiddie playground, sipping local beer, and lounging by the huge swimming pool.

Located a few steps from our cabin porch, the resort swimming pool was an oasis. The area is surrounded by lush trees and features a shallow walk-in ramp into the water that is perfect for little kids. The area also offers private cabanas and two Jacuzzis. Right behind the pool is a playground with sand, slides and a big play structure.

Next to the pool is the Kids Club, where parents can purchase fun arts and crafts for the little ones. This is where we rented a four-wheel surrey bike to thoroughly explore the campsite. For an hour each morning, we pedaled around the property admiring beautiful, new RVs and stopping to chat with friendly fellow campers. The bike has a steering wheel, four sets of pedals and enough seats for four adults and two small kids up front. Not only is the bike fun for the whole family, but it is also a great workout for the legs!

Another exciting adventure at KOA San Diego is the Beach Treasure Dig, a realistic little mining operation where kids can hunt for treasures. As water rushes down two ming flumes into tracks filled with sand, kids use sifters to find precious gems and other valuables. In our case, I hid some coins in the sand that my son was super thrilled to find.

After mining, we walked a few feet to the Sand Castle Cafe for fresh pizza and cold local beer. Featuring al fresco dining with a farm-to-table Southern California flare, the cafe serves warm baked goods, pancake breakfast, breakfast burritos, burgers, gourmet pizza, farm fresh salads and treats.

While eating I overheard two gentlemen behind us talking about the campsite and its history. They turned out to be Ted Bell and his son Mike, the owners of the KOA San Diego. Ted, who is 92 now, founded the campsite in 1968, while working as a police officer for the City of Chula Vista. Back then the camp was five acres with only a few dozen sites.

“When we opened up in 1968 we were kind of an outdoor motel for tourists coming to San Diego,” says Mike Bell. “But in the late 80s into the 90 we started transitioning into recreation and family resort focused. And a lot of people that come to the campground these days come to stay and spend all of their time in the park. They are not going to Sea World or the zoo or the beaches.”

Bell says that his guests now come from literally all over the world to experience San Diego weather and KOA comfort and outdoor charm.

After talking with the Bell’s we walked across the campsite to the giant red and yellow bouncy pillow. Measuring about 30 feet long by 15 feet wide, the air-filled pillow is like a big trampoline that makes you feel like you are jumping on mars. Next to here is a basketball court where I played a pick-up game with fellow campers.

Back at the cabin, we fired up the BBQ that came fully-equipped with a tank of propane. For dinner we grilled baby back ribs, potatoes, beans and veggies. We then had a memorable meal outside on our patio. After dinner, we threw some wood in the firepit, grabbed some extra long skewers, and made smores with marshmallows, graham crackers and chocolate bars.

Whether you have an RV, a camper van, or a tent, or want to sleep in a deluxe cabin or a rustic hut, the San Diego KOA Campground is one of San Diego’s most popular camping resorts and is a top-rated destination for family fun. The campground is located about 20 minutes from major San Diego attractions such as Sea World, The San Diego ZOO and San Diego Zoo’s Safari Park. The campsite is also pet-friendly and boasts a 7000 square-foot dog park.

The San Diego KOA Resort is located at 111 North 2nd Avenue, Chula Vista, CA 91910. For reservations call 888-566-1165 or visit: www.koa.com/campgrounds/san-diego

The post Camping and Glamping at San Diego Metro KOA Resort appeared first on Traveling Archive.

Located at the base of the Topatopa mountains in Santa Paula, California, the campground is clean, well maintained, and offers nature, wildlife, gorgeous views, and clear, star-lit nights. It also boasts camping accommodations for all outdoors types. There are plenty of sites for RVs, tents, teepees, covered wagons, safari tents and cabins. For our recent visit, we opted for a rustic cabin overlooking the mountains.

When we got to the KOA campground, the first thing we wanted was to get to our room, rest and freshen-up. But the plan quickly changed when we saw a giant, yellow jumping pillow in the middle of the camp beckoning us.

After getting our thrills on the bouncy pillow, we checked into a charming Camping Cabin, overlooking the nearby mountains. The cabin was covered in pine wood and featured everything we needed for two days of fun and adventure. There was a queen bed, a large loft for sleeping up to four people, bathroom with shower, microwave, fridge, kitchen sink, coffee maker.

The cabin also featured wireless Internet, a dining table and chairs, a porch overlooking the mountains, and a private yard with a fire pit.

When not in the cabin we explored the 76-acre, adventure-filled campground. A short walk from our cabin was the bouncy pillow, a large pool area, a zip line rope course, and a creek where kids and their families can pan for gemstones and ancient artifacts.

To search for the gems, we started at the camp’s general store, where we checked out panning equipment and purchased a bag of gems. We then walked to the camp’s gold mining station, where there is an old wooden flume and a sign detailing the kinds of gems we might find. We then walked to the stream and hid the gems in the mud, so our toddler could sift them out like a real gold miner.

Near the stream are the park’s teepees and covered wagons, which make for memorable family accommodations. The teepees are recreations of Sioux Indian dwellings. They are about 20 ft-tall and feature a queen and twin bed and a couple tables. They don’t come with electricity, but offer lots of natural light.

The covered wagons are also authentic and fun and provide the feeling of what it was like for the earlier settlers – but with a little bit more comfort. Sleeping up to six people, they come with two sets of bunk beds and a king or queen bed. There is no horse team to pull them through the prairie, and they don’t come with a bathroom or electricity, but they do have a battery-powered light inside.

The campground also features RV sites with full and partial hook-ups, tent sites with no electricity, and safari tents with no electricity.

After checking out some beautiful RVs, we met a few colorful KOA campsite locals. Standing about 3 feet tall, they were covered in feathers of bright iridescent blue, copper and brown and shades of green and yellow. They were friendly peacocks and they seem to coexist nicely with campers.

Back at the cabin, I played guitar on the porch, against a backdrop reminiscent of North Carolina’s Blue Ridge Mountains. I then took a nap and began preparing for a barbecue salmon dinner.

Our cabin came with a propane grill on the porch and a fire pit / bbq in the small yard. Since we brought our own charcoal, we used the firepit to cook up the fish, along with potatoes, jalapeños, garlic and some tortillas.

With dinner we sipped sparkling water and watched the sun fall behind the Topatopa Mountains. We also discussed fall and what a wonderful season it is for camping. In fact, a recent report by KOA projects that this fall, 25 million camping households plan to go “leaf peeping.”

Across the United States, KOA says that 54% of campers indicate that they are planning a camping trip to explore the changing colors of fall foliage.

“Over the last few years we’ve seen a marked increase in the number of fall campers,” says Toby O’Rourke, president and CEO of Kampgrounds of America. “Between the scenery and the weather, it’s a wonderful time to get out and explore. Last year, as COVID restrictions loosened in many areas, we saw a dramatic increase in campers “between early September and the end of the year registration revenues were up more than 25%.”

The next morning we made oatmeal and coffee in the cabin and walked to the campsite’s World Rock Labyrinth. This Stonehenge-type feature looks like it was made thousands of years ago. It is made up of hundreds of giant rocks placed in circles to create a one-of-a-kind maze for KOA campers.

Ventura Ranch KOA is located at 7400 Pine Grove Road, Santa Paula, CA 93060. For reservations, call 877-779-8080. For more information, call 805-933-3200 or visit: Ventura Ranch KOA

The post Fall Camping at Ventura Ranch KOA appeared first on Traveling Archive.

Susan George on “OUR CITY TONIGHT” TV

Watch Screen Legend Susan George’s interview on Canada’s “Our City Tonight” with host Jim Gordon who offered perinate questions about her career in which few of us were aware of.

Random Acts of Canine Kindness

Cedric the Dog takes a well-deserved break after his failure to shut down a puppy mill in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.

You want a friend in Washington? Get a dog. – Harry S. Truman

MORE Dog Quotations

Together in Spirit – The Best Friends Animal Society

At the core of Best Friends Animal Society’s work is the dream that one day animals will no longer be killed in America’s shelters.

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On Raglan Road

By Patrick Kavanagh

On Raglan Road on an autumn day I saw her first and knew
That her dark hair would weave a snare that I might one day rue;
I saw the danger, yet I passed along the enchanted way,
And I said, let grief be a fallen leaf at the dawning of the day.
On Grafton Street in November we tripped lightly along the ledge
Of the deep ravine where can be seen the worth of passion’s pledge,
The Queen of Hearts still making tarts and I not making hay
Oh I loved too much and by such by such is happiness thrown away.
I gave her gifts of the mind I gave her the secret sign that’s known
To the artists who have known the true gods of sound and stone
And word and tint without stint for I gave her poems to say.
With her own name there and her own dark hair like clouds over fields of May
On a quiet street where old ghosts meet I see her walking now
Away from me so hurriedly my reason must allow
That I had loved not as I should a creature made of clay
When the angel woos the clay he’d lose his wings at the dawn of day.

Learn the history of On Raglan Road and see the beautiful woman who inspired it.

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Send Deb your favorite travel poems

ED BOITANO ON “OUR CITY TONIGHT” TV

Last Sunday, the hit Canadian TV series Our City Tonight interviewed Traveling Boy editor, Ed  Boitano. The main focus of the interview was how Traveling Boy was able to survive during the C-19 pandemic when few people have been traveling.

Hosts Jim Gordon and Leeta Liepins offered praise and asked pertinent questions on how Traveling Boy was able to pivot during the pandemic by bringing in new categories and episodes to the site. This includes travel cartoons, international recipes, celebrity suites, travel trivia, foreign film reviews, and travel-themed polls, with the most recent, Places in the Heart; a deeply personal series by staff writers about destinations that dramatically impacted their lives.

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My Corgis and Me: Chords and Lyrics

A few have asked for the lyrics of my Corgi song. So here it is with simplified chords. I used this simple chord progression of only 3 chords to teach my grandkids to play the guitar. The chords are in the key of A but the original chords were in the key of C so if you want to play along with the recording, just put a capo on the 3rd fret.

CLICK HERE FOR VIDEO

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4 Things to Consider as You Start Traveling Again, According to Rick Steves

The legendary travel writer and TV personality shares tips for ethically returning to travel.

Courtesy Stacey Leasca 

Rick Steves wants you to know that travel will make a comeback, it just might look a little different than you remember.

In April, Steves sat down for a wide-ranging interview about the future of travel with Fund for Education Abroad, an organization that provides scholarships and ongoing support to students who are underrepresented among the U.S. study abroad population. And, as you may suspect, Steves is just as ready as the rest of us to get back out there and explore the world again.

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Covid-19 Direct Relief

Covid-19 Direct Relief addresses the courage of health workers on the front lines, honoring them with meaningful support, and the people most at risk in this pandemic are cared for — regardless of politics, religion, or ability to pay.

DONATE to DIRECT RELIEF

JetBlue Plane with Mint Business Class Suites

Courtesy of Business Insider

JetBlue Airways’ swanky new business class suites have landed.

The New York-based carrier marked another milestone towards launching flights to London having taken delivery of its first Airbus A321neo with the upgraded business class seats that flyers will enjoy on transatlantic flights later this year.

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Airlines Testing Touchless Technologies to Ease COVID-19 Concerns

Courtesy: Mina Kaji, Gio Benitez & Sam Sweeney

As air travel hits record numbers since the pandemic began, U.S. airlines are testing and implementing new technologies aimed at reducing contact — both with surfaces and with people.

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Germ Protection: Pack this Next Time You Have to Go Through TSA

Nakefits are lightweight, waterproof sole protectors that adhere to your feet and stay on for hours to protect you from germs, fungal infections, slipping and hot surfaces. Pop them on before going through TSA to give your feet protection. Or take them on a trip and pop them on before entering the hotel spa or sauna, taking a barefoot yoga class, or using the pool or hot tub. Available in a range of sizes suitable for children and adults, Nakefits can be easily removed without any pinching, peeling, or irritation of the skin. For further information, visit NakeFit USA.

The Complete List of All U.S. National Parks

Courtesy of Madeline Bilis

The United States just added a new national park to its roster of incredible public lands: New River Gorge National Park and Preserve. This West Virginia park runs along 53 miles of the New River and encompasses over 70,000 acres of the beautiful wooded gorge.  Plus, it offers plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, climbing, and whitewater rafting.

Its addition to the long list of U.S. national parks made us wonder — just how many national parks are there?

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How to Take Your Own Passport Photo

Courtesy: Caroline Morse Teel, SmarterTravel

After paying $15 to have an awkward photoshoot in the aisle of a CVS, only to have my passport photos rejected twice (once for being too dark and once for being too bright), I decided there had to be a better way to take your own passport photo. Turns out, snapping your own passport photo is easier, cheaper, and much more convenient than going to a “professional” (a.k.a., the cashier at your local drugstore). Here’s a few tips:

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How to Stay Safe While Traveling

With travel set to resume as coronavirus restrictions ease, travelers should inform themselves about the cleaning procedures at hotels and Airbnb properties before choosing the best option for them. Ask about cleaning protocols, be on the lookout for red flags such as accumulations of dirt and grime, and inspect surfaces in the bathroom and kitchen, recommends Brian Sansoni of the American Cleaning Institute.

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Americans Are Willing to Give Up Love and Chocolate for Travel

We’re catching flights, not feelings in 2021

Courtesy of Patrice J. Williams 

Would you do anything for love? According to a recent study, travel-starved Americans are willing to give up L-O-V-E if it means they can hear those beautiful words: “This is your captain speaking.”

A recent survey conducted by Booking.com found that Americans are ready to hit the road and are finally seeing some light at the end of this year-long tunnel. More than 70 percent said the success of COVID-19 vaccines have them feeling hopeful and “optimistic,” while just over 60 percent have realized travel is crucial to their emotional well-being. It’s clear they’re ready; we’re ready. But how ready?

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Less Will be More in Post-Pandemic Travel: Airbnb Chief

Smaller cities and more family time will gain favor over global tourism permanently in the wake of the pandemic, Airbnb CEO Brian Chesky predicts. “They’re not yearning to see Times Square” after months of isolation from normal life, he observes.

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JetBlue Passengers Will Be Able to Take an At-Home COVID-19 Test

No nasal swab required

Written by Stefanie Waldek, Courtesy of JetBlue

With COVID-19 testing restrictions impeding both domestic and international travel, JetBlue is providing its passengers an option that might help them travel more freely. The airline has announced a partnership with Vault Health to provide its passengers with easy access to an at-home COVID-19 test that could be used to enter specific destinations with coronavirus testing policies in place.

9 Tips for Traveling With Kids During the Pandemic

First tip: take a deep breath.

Courtesy of Wendy Altschuler, tripsavvy.com

Traveling with kids is often challenging even when there’s isn’t a pandemic to contend with. Kids require extra gear, entertainment, snacks, downtime, and a careful eye to make sure they’re safe while out and about. Now, more than ever, it’s imperative to practice social distancing, good hygiene, and to wear a mask when venturing through airports, getting food on the road, using public restrooms, or where there are groups of people present. Whether you’d like to plan for a road trip, a flight on a commercial airline, or a staycation in your own city, here are tips for traveling with kids during a pandemic.

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Most Stressed States

It goes without saying that 2020 was a year like no other, from COVID-19, to a very tough election season, the US has seen one of its most stressful years on record. With this in mind CT Shirts have analyzed Google Search data and cross referenced it with population and average household income to reveal the most stressed states.

SEE KEY FINDINGS

Health Passports: The Future Of Travel?

Courtesy: Justin Hayward, Simple Flying

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Being on the ground in over 180 countries means you get the full story.

The post Screen Legend Susan George on Our City Tonight appeared first on Traveling Archive.

The winter months are the perfect time to heat up your home with freshly baked goods. Baketivity is a super fun baking kit option that comes with an adorable chefs hat and child size apron. This. as well as easy to use recipe instructions, pre-measured ingredients and a delicious product. We baked one of the cupcakes kits, not only was it a joy to create, but the final product was a delight too. Baketivity offers single kit purchases as well as subscription purchases.

Little GF Chefs

Baking is a wonderful family activity and Little GF Chefs creates gluten free, allergy friendly baking kits for children, that can be delivered monthly or you can order a one time kit. While they have a big variety of options, we made the Under the Sea Cookie Kit which was such fun and actually looked like the above photo. What many parents will also appreciate is that the coloring for the cookies is all natural made from plants. Also the kit provides step by step instruction to create works of art.

The Under the Sea Cookie Kit makes 18 cookies and includes the cookie mix, icing, plant based food coloring, easy to use recipe instructions and tools to make your masterpieces.

Best part for parents of kids with allergies. “The recipe, mixes, and decorating supplies that come in your kit are all gluten free, dairy free, peanut free, tree nut free, egg free, soy free, sesame free, fish free, shellfish free and artificial dye free.”

Go Go Bird

What a delightful, hilarious fun outdoor toy that will keep you laughing and running. Ours actually flew up and got stuck in a tree the first day using it- luckily a city of Scottsdale park worker was kind enough to help us get him down! It can fly up to 200 feet. So best to keep your birdie away from trees.

This thrilling, flying, and lightweight bird is the perfect blend of a real outdoor activity and today’s trending drone toys. Check it out here. The easy-to-use remote control allows you to fly your bird up, down, around and through targets like hula hoops and more!

Octobo

Got your preschooler at home for the holiday break or home all year. It’s helpful if they know their letters when they attend kindergarten. It is a fun and creative way for them to learn. The Octobo is an award-winning, educational sensory plush robot that enables development in an interactive environment. Through guided storybooks, interactive tokens, and educational apps, your child will learn ABC’s, how to spell over 80 words and rhyme. Be sure to check out the different packages as they offer a variety of choices.

Clixo

A sensory creative toy that broadens the imagination and allows ideas to flow. Clixo is a fabulous toy that allows both kids and adults to create anything their imagination will allow, by clicking the magnetic pieces together. It is a lightweight toy that is easy to carry and relaxing while stimulating. It’s a perfect gift for all ages.

ABC Mouse

Not only are Hexbug Nanotopia hilarious and fun, but the whole family can enjoy the process of putting the playground together. It is a sensory toy for kids powered by vibration technology and has over 130 pieces. With tons of snap-together track pieces and obstacles, this is a vibrant playset to let your nano® loose in. Batteries are included so you can start the fun right away.

Please join my mailing list for the latest relaxation techniques, natural products, greatest toys and activities fo adults and kids and more. Would be great to hear from you so please connect with me!

www.masadasiegel.com * www.masadasiegelauthor.com

The post Fabulous Family Fun Activities appeared first on Traveling Archive.

Assumptions

We have a President. We just don’t know who he is. Welcome to the 2020 post election!

I’m amused by the selective coverage of the news media. If you only listen to the left-leaning TV media (ABC, CNN, NBC, PBS, MSNBC, NHK, Newsy), they do not see any evidence of election fraud. If you listen to the right-leaning media (Fox, OAN, Newsmax) they have a lot of evidence. They all have interviews with only the people who share their views.

A wise counselor told me emotions are real but they cannot be trusted because they do not change the facts. Emotions can be passengers in a bus but you’d be crazy to let emotions drive it.

I had a pleasant conversation with someone who is my political polar opposite. How was that possible? We respect each other. We’ve known each other a long time. I know she wants the best for America and the world and so do I … we just have different paths based on different data we have gathered. We decided that neither of us have a monopoly of the facts … we just have assumptions. Big difference!

Of course we would like our candidate to win but our world isn’t going to end if they don’t. Neither of us plan to move to Canada.

Be safe, be healthy, and remember: bring respect and your assumptions to the discussion table but leave your emotions outside. TGIF people!

Raoul

Joke of the Week

Thanks to Don of Kelowna, B.C.  for sharing this joke.

Video: Trapeze Act

Thanks to Naomi of North Hollywood, California

Mel’s Puns

Thanks to Mel of Washington, DC who sent this pun.

Parting Shots

Thanks to Mel of Washington, DC

Thanks to Naomi of North Hollywood, CA

Thanks to Art of Sierra Madre, CA for this last gag.

The post Rolls Royce vs. VW Bug appeared first on Traveling Archive.

The Legend of the SS Liberty

Few are familiar with the legend of the SS Liberty, a barque… a ship that carried a hundred people headed for the new world. 28 were businessmen, 30 were laborers while the majority was a mix of the two. During those days the trip took them over a month to get to their destination.

Unrest between the the social factions emerged. Some say it was the sea wind, others say it was cabin fever but most believe the trouble started because the inept captain had miscalculated the provisions and they were running out of food. The mutinous passengers decided to elect a new captain: Who was the smartest among them? Who was capable of leading them to survive the trip? Two candidates emerged. One was an intellectual businessman and other was a laborer with street smarts. At first the contest was respectful but then rumors started to spread about sexual indiscretions and relatives getting extra rations. Eventually, the divide between the businessmen and the laborers increased… neither group listened to the other. To make matters worse, someone contracted cholera and the disease began to spread.

Clusters of bullies emerged and they started to destroy the tables and chairs as a show of force if they did not get their demands met. The anarchy escalated to burning the galley which almost sank the ship.

The elections were held. The losing side accused the other of cheating. Bullies muscled their way into the store room, found a powder magazine and blew up the helm and they lost the ship’s rudder. Many had died of the cholera but many more died of the explosion. When the dust cleared, the few who were still left standing cried in desperation at their new captain for answers.

The proud captain, picked himself up from the rubbish and gazed at the grief-stricken faces. He knew this was his moment. He needed to give them hope.

“Well,” he started, “at least there are fewer of us to feed.” 

AND THAT’S WHEN THE RIOT STARTED!

It’s a joke guys! It’s a joke!

You didn’t think I had the solution to the problems we’re facing here in America, did you? I wish I did. My simple message today is we are on the same boat. We burn it down, we all sink with it. So let’s stop this suicidal track of destruction.

My election prediction: The next President will be a male senior citizen with a 5-letter name who will be wondering “how the heck did I get into this mess?”

Be safe, be healthy, and remember the legend of the SS Liberty! TGIF people!

Raoul

Joke of the Week

Thanks to Charlie of New Jersey  for sharing this joke.

Video: Kids are Smart

Thanks to Jun of Encino, California
A cute video of very smart babies. When I was their age, I was eating dirt.

Video: A Boy and His Skeleton Friend

Thanks to Bok of Makati, Philippines
Just in time for Halloween. It’s more strange and cute than scary.

Video: Don’t Worry, Be Happy

Thanks to Nani of San Juan, Philippines
A revival of an old tune that’s perfect for these worrisome times. As long as you are a child of God, you need not worry.

Rodney’s Puns

Thanks to Rodney of Manitoba, B.C. who sent this pun.

Parting Shots

Thanks to Don of Kelowna, B.C.

Thanks to Mel of Washington, DC for another Monkey gag

Thanks to Art of Sierra Madre, CA

Thanks to Peter Paul of South Pasadena for the last gag

HAPPY HALLOWEEN EVERYONE!

The post Text to a Wonderful Wife appeared first on Traveling Archive.

The Two Boys

Joke of the Week

Thanks to Peter Paul of South Pasadena, CA  for sharing this joke.

Video: Dog Apology

Thanks to Naomi of North Hollywood, CA
The cutest apology between siblings.

Video: The Practical Man

Thanks to Don of Kelowna, B.C.
 Follow the logic.

Don’s Puns

Thanks to Don of Kelowna, B.C. who sent this pun.

Parting Shots

Thanks to Mel of Washington D.C.

Thanks to Don of Kelowna, BC

Thanks to Mel of Washington D.C.

The post Indian Bank Loan appeared first on Traveling Archive.

Schwinn Krate EVO

The Schwinn Krate EVO is truly a beautiful bike. It’s stylish, sleek while some might notice the nostalgic elements such as the seat, it features all the modern updates to make the bike comfortable and a perfect fit for most children between ages 3-7 (38-48” tall). It comes with training wheels and can be used without as well. It is available in blue, red, black, yellow and pink, the bike retails for $169 at Walmart, Target and SchwinnBikes.com.

Bullseye Bow — Bow & Arrow

The Bullseye Bow is sturdy, fun and made in the USA. The set includes the bow, a removable quiver, three foam tipped arrows, and a cut-out target. Easy to use, they can reach distances of up to 60 feet or more. The arrow guide is positioned in the handle for a straight, accurate shot every time.  Just click the arrow nock to the string, pull back, and release.  A target is included too. It is a great toy for enhancing fine motor skills. It is super fun for adults too, and is a great stress reliever as you have to focus on the process and not on anything else.

The V-tech Video Camera

Get out of the box, and into a blast of creativity with the KidiZoom Creator Cam. It is a great starter camera for kids who want to delve into producing their own videos. It includes a green screen with over 20 animated backgrounds. Kids can host a dance party, get chased by a T-Rex, venture into outer space. It includes a tripod and has a built in microphone as well as on screen editing tools and creativity tools to help your kid become the new big Hollywood producer. The camera has a microSD card to increase storage.

Dance Charades

Keep a fun family vibe going as you dance the night away with Dance Charades. Simply pop the CD in a player or and pick one of the charades card and get silly. The CD gives a 40 second clip so you can dance out whatever the card you pick says to do. Great for kids and adults.

Please join my mailing list for the latest relaxation techniques, natural products, greatest toys and activities for adults and kids and more. Would be great to hear from you so please connect with me! #schwinn #bike #dance #charades #vtech #camera #fun #adventure #family #charades #stayhome #activekids #kids #outdoor #happy

The post Amazing Adventure Activities appeared first on Traveling Archive.

SolarBots: 8-in-1 Solar Robot Kit

Toys using solar energy should be the wave of the future — what a great way to harness nature and play all day. These SolarBots which are unique robots that you create are powered by the sun. Build adorable characters that use a tiny compact solar panel to get their energy.

There are several options from building a drummer robot that marches along, beating a drum; an armadillo robot that does somersaults; a solar bug that crawls on six legs, and more! The 48-page, full-color manual guides solar power pioneers through model assembly and offers fun scientific facts about the real-life applications of solar technology. What solar-powered inventions will you dream up?

Age 6+.

NASCAR Crash Circuit Road Course with Winner’s Circle

Sure to make you smile, this hyper speed new race set brings the excitement of NASCAR into your living room. Compete like real drivers as you race around steep turns at lightening speeds while side swiping one another and even pushing your competition off the track. Your car might even fly and pass other cars and you might even get wrecked. A super charged, super fun game.

The Road Course Track set with Winner’s Circle comes with two motorized race cars, two flash chargers, pit crew figurines, and a Winner’s Circle that really spins!

AGES: 5 plus

VEX Robotics Construction Zone

Building has never been such fun… ok it has, but this is a real treat for the budding builder in your home that will adore the VEX Robotics Construction Zone. It Includes over 1,350 pieces, and there are three separate builds that function just like their real-life counterparts, including the construction workers to help you with the heavy lifting.

The Construction Crane has an elevator and stands over the site at about two feet. Control its operations to lift and move objects wherever the crane can reach. Complete with an engine, the Dump Truck can haul parts across your construction site. The Backhoe will help you scoop and do all the heavy lifting!

The post Five Fab Finds 4 Budding Builders & Engineers appeared first on Traveling Archive.

Roller Coaster Decade

Joke of the Week

Thanks to Don of Kelowna, B.C.  for sharing this joke.

Video: Did You Steal My Makeup?

Thanks to Bok of Quezon City, Philippines
You don’t have to teach them how to lie.

Video: Chinese Village Couple’s Joyful Dance

Thanks to Ernie of Fresno, CA
Uplifting film of a farming family who just love to dance.

Tom’s Puns

Thanks to Tom of Pasadena, CA who sent these puns.

Parting Shots

Thanks to Mel of Washington, D.C.

Thanks to Don of Kelowna, B.C.

Thanks to Peter Paul of South Pasadena, CA

One more from Peter Paul

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