Daily Adventures August 8 - 13

Monday, August 8  We could all use a little more Wild Rumpus in our lives, right?  Right.  This book store claims to "stop at nothing to grab children's attention" including animals with scales, fur, and feathers that roam freely throughout the premises.  On Mondays at 10:30 am the Rumpus, as I've cleverly and affectionately nicknamed it, hosts Tail Time.  This read-aloud is aimed at preschoolers, but that won't keep me or my kids away from free-range chicken.  While we're in the neighborhood, we'll stop by Clancey's Meats and Fish for one of the best deli sandwiches in the Twin Cities.  Nearby Linden Hills Park makes for a great dessert.

Tuesday, August 9  There are two kinds of people in this world: Those who like Neil Diamond, and those who don't.  If you're in the Neil Diamond camp, you can end your day at the Lake Harriet Bandshell taking in Karl Commers' "Neil Diamond Tribute" at 7:30 pm.  It's part of Minneapolis' Parks outdoor concert series.  Whet your appetite for "Sweet Caroline" by spending the afternoon at the Lyndale Park Gardens.  Here you'll find four distinct gardens, including the famous rose garden, and Roberts Bird Sanctuary.  It's a great place to while away a beautiful summer day.

Wednesday, August 10  You're probably familiar with "Spoonbridge and Cherry" at the Walker's Sculpture Garden.  But this ain't the same old cherry anymore.  You can now download an app called "SCVNGR" that will take you on a digital scavenger hunt through the garden.  On this adventure, you'll be directed to snap some photos and answer questions about what you're seeing.  You can earn rewards by completing these challenges.  What kind of rewards?  I have no idea . . . yet.  If, like me, your phone isn't smart, you can borrow one from the Walker.  They put the "art" in "smart" . . . Sorry about that one.

Thursday, August 11  "What creatures have a tough outer shell-like covering, three body parts, and six legs, and have been found on earth for 350 million years?"  If you're anything like me, you probably answered, "The one on the bottom of my shoe."  But I know my kids find insects fascinating.  Fortunately for us, the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Reserve is hosting a free Insect Investigation today from 10-11:30 am.  I just have to remember to not scream "Eeeew! A bug!" when we find one.

Friday, August 12  I mentioned before that the Three Rivers Park District is a jewel in our cities' crown.  Today we're going to check out another of their awesome facilities - French Regional Park.  French Park has webbed climbing structures that remind me of Mr. Savre and elementary Phy. Ed.  And if we get tired of that, there are GPS units to check out for some geocaching, and a swimming beach.  All of this activity would make Mr. Savre proud.