FREE Nature Scavenger Hunts

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First off I want to wish everyone a happy and safe 4th of July. Do you have any exciting plans this weekend? We are going on a camping adventure with some friends and visiting another one of a kind camping destination in Georgia (don't worry I will share all about it when we return). Remember you can follow us on our fun adventures by checking in with us on Instagram and Facebook.

We have all kinds of fun activities lined up for the weekend like learning how to tie the different types of knots, making para-cord bracelets, playing board games, geocaching, and going on scavenger hunts. So today I decided to make up my own nature scavenger hunts and share them with you.

Download the nature scavenger hunt here, or click the photo below.

Download the fungus scavenger hunt here, or click the photo below.

For more fun, FREE downloads including nature journal pages (leaf, arachnid, flower, etc) and fieldtrip/road trip worksheets (letter game, travel journal page, road trip scavenger hunt) visit my freebie page.

Do you have any camping trips planned this year? I'd love to hear more about them post a comment below.

You can also tag us on instagram (@kbalman or use hashtag #2015campingfun) or share a photo on our Facebook page.

Top 10 Favorite Camping Games

*This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my Disclosure Page for details.

One of our favorite camping activities is playing board games....but not just any board games. We enjoy playing educational board games and/or board games that incorporate the great outdoors. So here are our top 10 favorite camping board games. Whenever we head out on a camping trip we select 3-5 of these games to go along with us.

1) Camp Board Game - Camp Board Game is a FUN outdoor-themed game that is great for the whole family! Who will be first to arrive at camp? Find out with this fun, educational Board Game. By answering questions about animals and the great outdoors, players compete to be first to arrive at camp. The questions start out easy and become more challenging as the game progresses. It's a great way for kids and parents to learn fun facts about the outdoors while having a great time! Read our full review on Camp Board Game here.
2) Young Scientists Club Animal Tracks - Animal Tracks is a 3 in 1 game combines the excitement of memory, matching and learning games all into one. Play the traditional game of concentration, bingo and guess-the-tracks with a science twist. Animal Tracks comes with high quality and colorful cards with animals and their tracks that need to be matched to win the games.
3) Appalachian Trail Game - The Appalachian Trail Game is a fun game for the entire family. Its mission is to inspire and prepare you to step outside and have your own hiking adventure, which makes it the perfect game for camping trips. The game is simple to set up and play...it is so easy that even kids can play it. The game is basically a trivia game with questions about the AT. Along the way though there are obstacles like Poison Ivy, Hypothermia or getting lost. We all learned a great deal about the AT after playing this game. You can even through the game cards in your backpack to play it on the trail!
4) Sciology - Sciology is fun game of memory and strategy. The object of the game is simple collect 4 cards of each scientist category (12 different scientist categories  included)

5) Snake Oil - Snake Oil will cure your doldrums. This crazy fun game is great for then entire family. This game is not only fun but super educational too. It promotes oral presentation skills, creativity and innovation, risk taking, communication skills, vocabulary building, empathetic persuasion strategies and more. Read our full review on Snake Oil here.
6) Mancala - Mancala is an ancient game of strategy that is very challenging yet simple enough for even kids to play.
7) Dominoes - Dominoes is a fun, classic game great for the entire family. A good game of dominoes helps you to relax and to clear the mind, so why not enjoy a game or two using these double Mexican train dominoes from Cardinal.
8) Reverse Charades - Reverse Charades is a hilarious twist on the classic charades game. In Reverse Charades a team acts out clues for one person to guess. The goal is simple guess as many words as possible in 60 seconds. It is fast-paced and tons of fun! Read our full review on Reverse Charades here.
9) Gravity Maze - Gravity Maze is an addicting logic puzzled game powered by gravity. You can spend hours playing this game and never get tired of it...especially since it has 60 challenges ranging from beginner to expert! The game is a one person game or you can play it competition style to see who can get through the maze quicker.  Read our full review on Gravity Maze here.
10) Apples to Apples Disney Edition - App;es to Apples Disney Edition is super simple to play and great for expanding your kids vocabulary and thinking skills. Players select a card from their hand that they think is most like the card played by the judge. If the judge picks your card you are the winner of the round.

What are some of your favorite board games to take with you on camping trips?

Georgia One Of A Kind Camping Series - Conestoga Wagon

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Back in January I made a vow that we would go on more camping adventures! As I began the search for camping destinations I learned that Georgia has some very unique, one of a kind, camping experiences to offer. And it was that discovery that led me to this post today which is the first in my series "Georgia One Of A Kind Camping." I hope you will follow us along on our journey as we seek out the unique, one of a kind, uncommon camping experiences in Georgia. Remember you can follow our journeys on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook. Our hashtag is #2015campingfun!

To kick off our "Georgia One Of A Kind Camping Series" we headed down to Rock, GA to The Rock Ranch to spend the night in a Conestoga Wagon! That's right folks you can experience what 19th century pioneer life was like and make some special family memories while you're at it.

Con • es • to • ga / pronunciation: kon-i-sto -ga  / noun: a large wagon with broad wheels and an arched canvas top; used by the United States pioneers to cross the prairies in the 19th century

< syn: covered wagon, prairie wagon, prairie schooner>

A moms review:
Before we checked in at our Conestoga Wagon we had hours of family fun at The Rock Ranch.

Rock Ranch Fun:
The Rock Ranch is a 1,500 acre cattle ranch that offers visitors an "agritourism" experience. It is owned by the Chick-fil-A family and dedicated to "Growing Healthy Families." The Rock Ranch offers seasonal events, educational fieldtrips, and more! So far we have gotten to experience the Spring Saturdays and Fall Family Fun Days and both have been exceptional. During Spring Saturdays you can pick strawberries (extra fee), fish with a cane pole (Tom and Huck style), take a tour of Tiny Town, visit the petting zoo, jump on a giant pillow, get a workout on the paddle boats, slide through a hill, ride a train and MUCH more! For an extra fee you can even tackle the rock climbing wall, speed down the zip line or go around in circles on the carousel. Be sure to read my previous post about the Fall Family Fun Days.

Before heading to The Rock Ranch office to check into our wagon we grabbed a quick bite to eat at Big Daddy's Vittles. After our yummy dinner we hopped on the shuttle which transports you to the Farmers Market area...this is also where The Rock Ranch office is located along with VIP parking area (which is where our car was parked). We checked in with our guide and hopped in our car to be escorted to the wagon area.

The Conestoga Wagons:
As we approached the fenced in field with the wagons the kids squealed with joy (okay maybe I did too)! There were 7 wagons in a circle to the left of the entrance and 1 lone wagon to the right of the entrance (which was the one we spent the night in). We parked the car under the nearest tree and unloaded our gear while our guide took the other family that was staying the night over to their wagon. After she was done with them she made her way back to us to explain all the details about our accommodations for the evening. The Rock Ranch provides the wagon equipped with bunk beds (8 bunks total) and vinyl covered mattress pads, a fire ring, plenty of firewood, picnic tables, clean port-a-potties (they truly are the cleanest I have ever seen), a hand washing station next to the port-a-potty complete with hand washing water, paper towels and soap, trash cans, a folding table and a wooden love seat swing, The Rock Ranch also provided us with a large plastic tub that contained bug spray, paper towels, a lantern, first aid kit, cups, paper and matches to help start a fire, and the contact information for our guide. She placed the bin on a second folding table that was next to our wagon and pointed out the drinking water that was also available for us.

The wagons are HUGE!!! As I mentioned above there are 8 bunks in total...of course both kids wanted a top bunk. To enter the wagon you go up a few steps and through a small split gate which has a slide latch on it. At the front end of the wagon is a large platform where you can store your gear, plus each bunk has their own shelves which is great for storing personal items (cameras, books, glasses, toys, etc). Both of the open ends of the wagon have vinyl flaps which can be dropped down to help keep out bugs, wind, etc. If you are looking for a great photo opp have your kids sit on the drivers seat!

After we unpacked what we needed to and laid out our pillows, blankets and sleeping bags we got our fun filled evening started. Hubby got the fire roaring while the kids ran around and explored (and gathered marshmallow roasting sticks). While they continued exploring hubby and I sat on the swing and enjoyed a friendly competitive game of mancala (I won). After the kids were done exploring we set up the folding table and played our favorite camping board games together (look for a post on that later this week). Even hubby enjoyed playing the games...even though he will probably never admit it. After we were done playing games we got out our s'more making supplies and enjoyed some tasty (not so healthy) treats. As we ate our s'mores we watched the sun go down and listened to the serenade of crickets, frogs and birds.

When it was time for the kids to hit the hay I helped them get settled in for the night by reading them some books....about Conestoga Wagons of course (Conestoga Wagons, Frontier Home, and Wagons West). After they were all tucked in I headed back out to the fire pit to stargaze with hubby. But of course the kids didn't settle down right away...instead they gave us a little puppet show!

In the morning the kids and I took a walk around the property. First we walked up to the pasture to check out the cows. Then we discovered a nice little path with some beautiful wildflowers and a stream. The path led to a pasture where we spotted a few frolicking deer. When hubby woke up we went exploring a little more and found termites, spiders and other amazing creepy crawlies, Then we made some flower tiaras and bracelets and taught the kids how to make grass whistles.

Oh I totally forgot to mention there is a volley net with a ball and horseshoe pit too!

Extra details:
-Beware of fire ants! And make sure your children know what the mounds look like so they don't step in one.
-Warn children about the bugs that will probably be occupying the wagon...take along a broom to sweep out the wagon and get rid of any lingering bugs.
-Pack snacks, breakfast, beverages.
-If you want to play horseshoes make sure to bring your own.
-Pack games, frisbees, books, and other things to occupy your time.
-If you plan to also visit The Rock Ranch festivals or events make sure you allow yourself enough time to explore everything they offer...at least 5-6 hrs.

Where:
5020 Hwy 36
The Rock, GA 30285

When to visit:
Anytime of the year!

Cost:
$225 per wagon (each wagon sleeps 8 in bunk beds).  Two night options are available for $365 per wagon. During Fall Family Fun Days at The Rock Ranch campers can enjoy the added entertainment and public attractions for a discounted admission price of $10 per person.

Hot dog dinners, storytellers and an astronomer are available for an added fee!

Links to follow:
-The Rock Ranch Facebook
-The Rock Ranch Twitter

Educational resources:
If you are looking for a way to enhance your Conestoga Wagon/Pioneer experience and make it even more educational and fun check out these resources.

-Conestoga Wagon craft
-Conestoga Wagon wooden model
-Prairie Pioneers Unit Study
-Westward Ho Activity Book
-Going West Lapbook
-Cowboy Things To Make And Do Book

What is the most unique camping trip you have taken?

*Prices indicated in post are subject to change

Family Fun At State And National Parks And Historic Sites

*This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my Disclosure Page for details.

We love exploring State and National Parks and Historic Sites, not only in Georgia, but in other states too when we are traveling. Sadly they are a resource that a lot of people don't take advantage of enough. Both State and National sites work very hard to create events and activities for families to enjoy that are both fun and educational, but it has been my experience that people are not aware of all that these places have to offer. This post will explain some of our favorite events and activities. I hope that you are able to take advantage of some of these soon!

National Parks:
Most National Parks are very affordable to enter and only charge a parking fee which varies depending on the park. For most of the Georgia National Park sites are only a $3 parking fee. However there are several times during the year where entry into National Parks is FREE.

• Junior Civil War Historian - One hundred fifty years ago, our nation nearly tore itself apart. Soldiers in blue and gray struggled on battlefields across the country and changed the face of the United States of America. Complete one of two options to become a Junior Civil War Historian. When done, you will understand how the Civil War shaped our nation's history and become part of a select group of young visitors who truly appreciate how important the Civil War is to us today.

• Junior Ranger Program - The Junior Ranger motto is recited by children around the country; each taking an oath of their own to protect parks, continue to learn about parks, and share their own ranger story with friends and family.  The NPS Junior Ranger program is an activity based program conducted in almost all parks, and some Junior Ranger programs are national. Many national parks offer young visitors the opportunity to join the National Park Service "family" as Junior Rangers. Interested youth complete a series of activities during a park visit, share their answers with a park ranger, and receive an official Junior Ranger patch and Junior Ranger certificate. Junior Rangers are typically between the ages of 5 to 13, although people of all ages can participate.
• Civil War to Civil Rights Trading Cards - This program started in 2011 to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the Civil War and to encourage families to visit multiple national parks. There are more than 500 cards from nearly 90 national parks in 31 states. To earn cards simply participate in programs, make good observations, or ask or answer questions. For an entire list of the National Parks that have cards click here (this is not the most current list because it is from 2012, but I couldn't find and updated one on their website). 
• Passport To Your National Parks Program - America's National Parks are presented in one handy booklet with the Passport To Your National Parks program. The 104-page travelogue includes color-coded maps, pre-visit information, illustrations and photographs. It also includes a list of every national park area in the United States. Spaces allow you to collect the series of commemorative Passport stamps issued each year. You can order the booklet here or pick one up at a National Parks gift shop. 
• Discovery Backpacks - Many of the National Parks offer Discovery Packs that you can check out for FREE at the visitor center. The backpack is filled with all materials that you will need to have a fun nature learning adventure with your kids. (not all parks offer these)
• Monthly Events - Every month National Parks Sites across the country offer events and programs. Just check the website frequently. Also when visiting a National Park check to see if they have an app, Many of them now offer fun interactive app tours, like these which are great for kids.

If you can't currently travel, but are anxious to start learning about our countries National Parks then check out these fun virtual programs.

• WebRangers - WebRangers is the online extension of the Junior Ranger program. It's a website for kids of all ages. If you love our National Parks, Historic Sites, and Monuments, then this site is for you.
• Flat Ranger -  Flat Stanley by Jeff Brown is the story of a boy who is flattened by a bulletin board. Because he is flat, he can travel by mail (which costs a lot less than traveling by plane or car). Like Flat Stanley, Flat Rangers travel across the country by mail. They visit America's National Parks and send home pictures and information about all the places they see. (letter and templates can be found on the website)  There is also a traveling Clara Barton.
• Sesame Street Explores National Parks - Travel with fun-loving Muppets Elmo and Murray from Sesame Street to two of America's most popular national parks in the new online series Sesame Street Explores National Parks. Watch educational videos and download lots FREE resources!
• Archaeology For Kids - Do you like digging in the dirt? Finding things that are lost? Putting pieces together? Figuring out stories from clues? Learning about the past? These are all things archaeologists do—maybe you're one, too! 

Georgia State Parks and Historic Sites:
Georgia State Parks charge a $5 parking fee, If you plan to visit a lot of them I suggest the annual $50 pass. The cost for Historic Sites varies and generally runs between $3-$7 per person. However there are a couple times a year that the State Parks and Historic Sites offer FREE admission. Another option that enables you to visit for FREE is checking out the State Parks or Historic Site passes at your local library.

• Junior Ranger and Get Outdoors Program - Children ages 6-12 will have fun learning in the outdoors as they work toward earning a Junior Ranger badge. By following the guidelines in the Junior Ranger Activity Book they will experience nature first-hand, explore Georgia's fascinating history and enjoy outdoor recreational activities. The experience builds as children work their way through three badge levels. For even more fun children can also earn a Get Outdoors Georgia Gopher Badge. Choose from a list of 16 different badge requirements that will get you outdoors and help you learn about nature.

• Civil War Badge - Georgia State Parks and Historic Sites is offering a limited edition Civil War badge as we commemorate the 150th Anniversary of the Civil War. "Kids" ages 7-70 will have fun exploring sites in Georgia that were touched by this historic event. (limited time)
• State Park GeoTour (State Parks and Historic sites) - Using a GPS or smartphone with a GPS app, you search 61 Georgia State Parks & Historic Sites locations around the state to discover hidden containers or “caches” which contain a small prize. (The coordinates to all caches are available online at Geocaching.com) You take a prize and then leave one for the next person. After signing the logbook to document your success, you go back online and share your experience.
• First Time Camper - If you've always wanted to try camping, but weren’t sure how to begin -- we can help. Through our First-Time Camper program, you’ll get borrowed gear, expert advice, two nights’ accommodations and more...all for $50.
• Monthly Events and Homeschool Days - Every month the Georgia State Parks and Historic Sites offer events and programs. Just check the website frequently or utilize the Pocket Ranger App.
• Educational Resources for Teachers and Parents - view and download numerous resources including animal case studies. fieldtrip guides, educational videos, tour curriculum and more. 
• Park Clubs and Challenges - Are you a mountain biker, canyon climber or paddler? Then your family will love these fun clubs and challenges. 

Did you know that during May and June, parks all across the country will be celebrating nature and outdoor recreation? Check out all these great upcoming ways to celebrate outdoor fun Kids to Parks Day (May 16), Great Outdoors Month (June), National Trails Day (June 6), National Get Outdoors Day (June 13) and the Great American Backyard Campout (June 27). 

What activity do you think your family will do first? Did I miss highlighting any family fun events or activities that these two places offer?

Tell Pests To Take A Hike This Spring #LearnWithOrkin

*This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my Disclosure Page for details. This post was sponsored by Orkin however all opinions are my own.

We are an avid traveling, hiking and camping family and though we have a very weird fascination with insects (we have a colony of Madagascar Hissing Cockroaches and collect dead insect specimens) there are few we DON'T particularly like getting bitten/stung by or bringing home with us.

Last week I had the pleasure of taking a fieldtrip to the The Rollins Learning Center in Atlanta and learned some pretty awesome facts about pests from Orkin Entomologist Ron Harrison. I even had the pleasure of feeding an adult and baby bed bug...cool right? Watch the bed bug feeding video here.

Well today I want to share with you some of the things I learned from The Orkin Man about the pests you may come in contact with and even possibly bring home with you during traveling, hiking and camping adventures. I'd also like to share some ways you can protect yourself and your family against these pests.

TICK

TICKS:
Did you know that in 2013, more than 35,000 Americans were affected by Lyme disease, which is commonly carried by ticks (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention). While many believe ticks are only a danger in the forest, that's a myth – ticks can and do dwell around the home as well. The good news is that here in Georgia the chances of getting Lyme disease from a tick are very low. In 2013 only 8 cases were reported for Georgia. 

Did you know that ticks don't fly?  And that they silently and painlessly bite their way into your skin where they feast on your blood?

As temperatures rise in the spring and people spend more time outside, gardeners, families and pets are in danger of disease-bearing ticks. To protect yourself and your family, be aware of these simple safety tips:

• Clear overgrown shrubbery and grass to keep ticks from lingering around the home.
• When hiking avoid bushy areas, tall grass and hanging branches...stick to the trail (this can be hard if you are a geocaching family like us). 
• Avoid shady, damp areas ticks really like these places. 
• Wear light-colored long-sleeved shirts and pants to easily detect and deter ticks while outdoors. Tuck your pants into your socks. Wear a bucket hat or baseball cap.
• Use EPA-registered insect repellant on exposed skin near pants cuffs, shirt cuffs, collars and socks to ward off ticks.
• After being outdoors immediately take a shower afterwards and check for ticks. Make sure you check all your nooks and crannies, ticks love those spots. It usually takes them awhile to find a good spot and work their fangs into you so you may be able to get them off more easily before they dig in their fangs and become engorged. 

To remove a tick follow these easy steps (it is best to remove them within 24 hours after being bitten):

• Wipe the area with an alcohol wipe.
• Grasp the tick with a sharp pointed tweezers as close as possible to the head where it is entering your skin.
• Pull it straight away from your skin with a slow, steady pressure. Don't yank it, twist it or rock it back and forth.
• Even removing the tick as efficiently as possible may leave some of its mouthparts in your skin. If this happens, pinch up a fold of skin that contains the bite area and carefully scrape the skin containing the mouth parts with a scalpel or razor blade. Or, use a sterilized needle to break the skin and remove the mouth.
• It's very important to thoroughly clean the wound with antiseptic.
• If you have any concerns about the possibility of Lyme Disease, keep the tick in a film canister or between a piece of folded tape and take it to a public health lab for inspection.
• If the bite becomes infected, contact a medical professional immediately.

****DO NOT burn it off, smother it with alcohol , etc!****

FIRE ANT

FIRE ANTS:
Many homeowners consider ants to be one of the most serious pests. There are more than 10,000 species worldwide, and about 50 of those in the United States.

Ants can infest homes by coming in through the tiniest of cracks, and controlling them is difficult because they leave an invisible pheromone trail for others to follow once they find a food source. There are three main categories of ants: nuisance, health (such as fire ants) and structural (such as carpenter ants). If you are an avid hiker or camper than you know all about fire ants.

Did you know that fire ants are not a native species in North America? It was accidentally brought into the USA in the 1930s via a shipment of cargo. They have thrived due to a warm climate (especially in southern US state) and lack of predators. And did you also know that fire ants contain an alkaloid venom which they can inject multiple times?

To protect yourself and your family, be aware of these simple safety tips:

• Avoid dry fields and shady areas such as woods.
• Watch where you step and look for large earthen mounds or trails which are especially visible after a rainfall. There can be several hundred thousand ants in these mounds.
• If you discover a mound rope off the area so people know to avoid it until an exterminator can treat the area. 
• Be cautious and observant of where you sit or place items such as food, drinks, chairs, and even tents.
• Wear light-colored long-sleeved shirts and pants to easily detect and deter ants while outdoors. Tuck your pants into your socks.
  

To treat a fire ant bite/sting follow these easy steps:

• Immediately brush off any ants still on your body. Fire ants can sting multiple times. Don't use water or shake them off it only makes them angrier. 
• Look for red bumps which will "sting" or "burn." They may look like hives.
• Immediately squeeze the venom out of the area you were stung/bitten. 
• It's very important to thoroughly clean the wound with antiseptic.
• Treat the ant bites with an over-the-counter anti itch/pain product and cold compresses.
• As quickly as possible strip down your clothing and shake them off. It is possible ants could be hiding on your clothes.
• About a day after the bite any blisters that have appeared will become filled with a pus like substance. Treat these pustules with an anti itch product so you do not risk popping them open which could lead to secondary infection.
• If itching persists or the bites become infected, contact a medical professional immediately.

****Fire ant stings/bites can be fatal to some people. Look for severe reactions such as sweating , nausea or excessive itching. If these are visible contact emergency medical services immediately.****

MOSQUITO

MOSQUITOES:

Mosquitoes are more than nuisances at picnics and outings. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), some mosquitoes can transmit West Nile virus, Chikungunya virus and more.

Did you know that prime mosquito-biting times are dusk and dawn? And that they only need a little bit of water to breed and survive, making them very hard to control? And did you know that only the females enjoy your blood for their meals?

Mosquitoes are EVERYWHERE and when we are out on adventures these are the #1 pest we encounter. They don't bother me so much but boy do they love my husband and children who develop large welts after being bitten.

To protect yourself and your family, be aware of these simple safety tips:

• Clear overgrown shrubbery and grass to keep mosquitoes from lingering around the home. Also get rid of any standing water areas (including gutters)
• Hike during the morning and early afternoon. Get off the trail before sunset to avoid the peak mosquito hours. Avoid shady, damp areas mosquitoes really like these places. 
• Hike on open, sunny trails rather than in shady ones. Any wind will help blow the mosquitoes away, and the drier air is harder on them.
• Wear light-colored long-sleeved shirts and pants to easily detect and deter mosquitoes while outdoors. Tuck your pants into your socks. 
• Use EPA-registered insect repellant on exposed skin near pants cuffs, shirt cuffs, collars and socks to ward off ticks. You can citronella wax on your skin to keep mosquitoes away. 
• Burning citronella candles can help keep mosquitos away from an area, but wind will blow the smell away easily.

To treat a mosquito bite follow these easy steps:

• Don't itch it! That just causes more damage and possible infection.
• Wash the bite area with soap and water.
• Apply an anti-itch medicine such as Benadryl gel. Also apply a cold compress to the affected area to reduce swelling. You can also make a paste using baking soda and water to help alleviate the itch,
• In the case of a severe reaction antihistamine and anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen or naproxen can also be used. 
• If the itching persists or the bites become infected, contact a medical professional immediately.

BED BUG

BED BUGS:
Bed bugs are known to leave itchy welts on the skin after they feed on human blood during the night.  These tiny pests are a particular concern for travelers, who are likely to pick them up at hotels, or on planes, and bring them home. 

Did you know bed bugs are attracted to heat, CO2, & body odor?  And did you know that bed bugs can live for up to 6 months without feeding? What about that they silently and painlessly bite you and feast on your blood? And that they do not fly or jump?

Vacation with your family and friends – not bed bugs – this spring with some simple tips. Just remember the acronym SLEEP:

•     SURVEY: Check for signs of infestations, such as dark brown or red spots, on hotel bedding. Bed bugs are not a sanitation issue, which means they can be found in any hotel or motel – from a one-star to five-star location.
•     LIFT & LOOK: Bed bugs tend to settle in close proximity to their food source – you! Lift the mattress and inspect the box spring, sheets, furniture, upholstery and hollow bedposts, as well as crevices behind baseboards, pictures and even torn wallpaper.
•     ELEVATE: Keep luggage and personal belongings off the floor and away from the bed to keep bed bugs from crawling inside. You can even put suitcases in the tub or shower of the hotel to discourage the bugs from crawling inside. It is also a good idea to put and keep your clothing in a sealed bag during your stay.
•     EXAMINE: Bed bugs are hitchhikers, so check all luggage and clothing for bed bugs while repacking and when arriving at home.
•     PLACE: Remove all clothing from luggage and place in the dryer at the highest setting for 15 minutes immediately upon returning home. (Bed bugs cannot survive temperatures above 120 degrees Fahrenheit.)

To treat a bed bug bite follow these easy steps:

Remember you will not feel a bed bug bite you (believe me I would know, remember I fed one). The bites do not typically become visible until a day or more after the insect feeds...if at all. You may notice large welts, red marks, itching, blister-like inflammation, rash and or swelling. Bed bugs can carry diseases but there is no evidence that they can transmit the diseases to humans.

• Don't itch it! That just causes more damage and possible infection.
• Wash the bite areas with soap and water.
• Apply an anti-itch medicine such as Benadryl gel. Also apply a cold compress to the affected area to reduce swelling and itching. 
• In the case of a severe reaction antihistamine and anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen or naproxen can also be used. 
• If the rash persists or the bite becomes infected, contact a medical professional immediately.
  

That's my arm in the bottom left. 

And there you have it...the top 4 insects you will definitely encounter if you are an adventurous family who enjoys traveling, hiking and camping! For even more information on these bugs visit the Orkin Pest Library.

Remember if you are ever concerned about insects of any kind (or even wildlife) in or around your home visit Orkin.com.

GIVEAWAY:
Orkin has graciously offered to giveaway an Orkin pillow encasement to one lucky reader. Only the first entry is mandatory. Other entries are optional and give you extra chances. This giveaway is not affiliated with Facebook in any way. The winner will be posted on the blog and will be emailed. Winner must reply within 48 hrs with their contact information or another winner will be chosen. Prize will be mailed via Orkin.

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The BIG Camping Checklist

*This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my Disclosure Page for details.

This year we are planning on taking more camping trips...even if it's just for one night. We already have one planned in April with my homeschool group, SE Homeschool Fieldtrips. So be on the look out for lots of camping related posts and photos on Instagram.

One of the hardest parts about camping for most people is preparing and packing. Last year when we went to Stephen C. Foster Park in Okefenokee Swamp we were so unprepared, which is what prompted this post. I started compiling a list of everything we forgot on our camping trip and also enlisted the help of my sister-in-law and brother who are camping extraordinaire's, and came up with this BIG camping checklist. This checklist probably has more stuff listed than you really need, but it is better to be over prepared. There are extra spaces under each category for you to pencil in any extra stuff you need. If you see that I missed a must take item let me know so I can add it to the printable.

Download and print the BIG Camping Checklist here, or click the photo below.

Do you have any camping trips planned this year? I'd love to hear more about them post a comment below.

You can also tag us on instagram (@kbalman or use hashtag #2015campingfun) or share a photo on our Facebook page.

AYL StarLight 330 LED Lantern Review - A Must Have For Camping and Home

*This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my Disclosure Page for details.

A moms review:
This year we plan to take more camping trips, so besides making an awesome ultimate camping checklist (which I hope to post on my blog soon) I have been on the search for quality camping supplies.

A few weeks ago we received an AYL StarLight 330 LED Lantern to review. It has been too cold to go camping so we tested out the lantern at home. Not only is this lantern great for camping, but it also comes in handy around the home. It makes a perfect night light, can keep you safe during a black out, makes bedtime stories more fun, and can save your life during roadside emergencies. 

The AYL StarLight 330 LED Lantern uses LED lighting technology making it one of the brightest, clearest LED lanterns on the market today (300 Lumens). Because it uses LEDs it generates little to no heat so there is no need to worry about starting a fire or having a child get burned. The use of LED lighting technology also means that the lantern uses less power and can be used continuously for up to 6 days. The LED lights are guaranteed for up to 100,000 hours of use before needing to be replaced. The lantern uses 3 D batteries for power (not included).

The lantern is made from sturdy rubber and high impact ABS plastic making it very reliable, durable and even water resistant. The base is very solid and weighted slightly so you won't need to worry about it tipping over easily. But it is still very lightweight making it easy to transport, it is so light that even a child can tote it around with ease. At the top of the lantern is a sturdy metal handle which folds down out of the way when it is not in use. At the bottom of the lantern is a fold-out plastic hook which makes hanging the lantern a breeze.

The lantern has three lighting modes which are easily accessible with the push of a button. There is Low, High and Flashing Strobe (perfect for emergencies). The High mode is equivalent to about a 30 watt incandescent bulb. On the front of the lantern is a little green light that flashes about every 5 seconds. This simple little feature is something that almost no other lantern has. So what does it do? Well it helps you locate the lantern in the dark...pretty ingenious right. One other really unique feature is the removable top which basically turns the lantern into a focused light/flashlight.

I was thoroughly impressed with this lantern and it is a great addition to our camping supplies and home emergency kit.

There are only a few things I think the company could improve on to make the lantern even better. The bottom hanging hook which is made of plastic doesn't look like it will hold up over an extended period of use (especially around children). Perhaps a metal hook similar to the carrying handle may be a better option for them to consider in the future. And the battery installation was a little difficult as there are no orientation indicators on the inside of the battery compartment (like most products)...I finally realized they were located in the instruction booklet...yeah I am one of those people who doesn't like to read instructions. I also had some difficulty with the battery cap the first time. The AYL Starlight 330 uses a special triple seal to help keep moisture and humidity from entering the battery compartment. Because of this the cap can be a little difficult at first to remove and replace...but it is definitely a feature that needs to remain in place. And since the batteries don't need to be replaced often it is totally something I can live with. The instruction manual also has clear instructions for removing and replacing the cap (plus there is a link to a video too).

The AYL StarLight 300 also comes with a Limited Lifetime Warranty so you can rest assured you are making a wise investment. 

Where to buy:
You can currently purchase the AYL StarLight 300 Lantern on Amazon for $35.00 (FREE shipping).

Top 10 Things To Do At Georgia State Parks

*This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my Disclosure Page for details.

We love exploring the Georgia State Parks. And with over 65 Georgia State Parks and Historic Sites there's a lot of exploring to do! But did you know about everything these fabulous parks offer? And did you know that many of the activities are FREE or very inexpensive? State Parks require a $5 parking fee and Historic Sites vary in price, ranging from FREE- approximately $10 per person. And since the majority of the activities are FREE you can have a fun filled family day for next to nothing!

Here are our top 10 favorite things to do at Georgia State Parks:

1) Geocaching - Geocaching is treasure hunting with a GPS. You can find out how to get started by reading one of my past geocaching how to posts. Throughout the State Parks you will find many geocaches, however you need to check out the Georgia State Park GeoTour. There are 43 State Parks and 14 Historic Sites participating in the GeoTour. Makes sure you download your passport before you head out. As you complete the State Park GeoTours you can earn special Geo-Coins, Trading Cards and Pathtags.

2) Camping - Many of the State Parks offer camping options including tent, RV, group and backing packing sites. They also have cabin rentals if you are not fond of being one with nature. If you are not an avid camper and want to give it a try check out their 1st time camper program. This program allows you to borrow all th  gear you will need for 2 nights of fun for only $50. If you are an avid camper then the loyalty program is for you. After you camp 9 nights you will get the 10th night free. Camping SPECIALS are also offered from time to time. For the 2014 Summer you can get 50% off select State Park campsites.

3) Boating - About half of the Georgia State Parks offer boating fun. For a small fee you can rent canoes, kayaks, paddle boards, pedal boats and even fishing boats. Or if you have your own boat that is welcome too. Spend a day or a few hours relaxing on a serene lake!

4) Fishing - Children under 16 years of age can fish without obtaining a license. So grab a rod or make your own bamboo fishing pole and head to one some of the top fishing parks in Georgia. 44 Georgia State Parks offering fishing.

5) Swimming - You don't need to travel to the coast for white sandy beaches because 24 of the State Parks have them. For just $5 a day you can enjoy sandy beaches and clean lake swimming. A couple of the parks even offer splash pads and "sliding rocks". We have been to two of the lakes and they are absolutely fabulous.

6) Junior Ranger Program - Do you have a child that loves nature and history? Then you must check out the FREE Junior Ranger Program. Simply visit your favorite Georgia State Park and ask the visitors center for activity book. You can also print one here. Children can then work through the activity requirements on their own or with the help of an adult. After they complete the guidelines in the book they will earn a badge (there are 3 badge levels). Also be sure to check out the Get Outdoors Gopher Badge and limited time Civil War Badge. Some parks and historic sites offer Junior Ranger day camps or workshops, usually during summer.

7) Hiking - All of the State Parks offer fabulous hiking and there is something for everyone including the novice and expert hikers. Perhaps you need a stroller or handicap friendly trail? Georgia State Parks have those too. The first trail we hit with our daughter in a stroller was at Amicalola Falls. Be sure to take along your nature journal to document the neat things you find on your hike or check out some of my FREE nature journal/notebooking worksheets. To make your hike even more fun create your very own exploration backpack.

8) Archery - Perhaps you want to harness your inner Katniss? Well you can do that too at 8 of the Georgia State Parks. For a small fee you can try out two different archery ranges: traditional static ranges, where archers shoot into “bow butt” targets in free-standing target sheds and trails with realistic targets (deer, turkey, etc.) on several lanes. There is a range fee (approximately $5-$10) for archery and you can either bring your own equipment or rent from the park.

9) Visit Historic Sites - Are you a history buff? Then you will love the 18 Georgia Historic Sites. Travel back in time as you visit beautiful plantations, unique homes, Native American mounds, civil war battlefields, coastal forts and gold rush museums.

10) Biking - 20 State Parks offer beautiful bike trails. For the novice biker there are several paved trials and for the experts there are dirt mountain bike trails.  Some trails do require a small fee to help maintain them. One of our favorite paved paths is at Panola Mountain. Pretty soon you will be able to even rent bikes at Panola Mountain.

These are just some of the activities offered at the Georiga State Parks for a full listing as well as their events calendar visit the website.

Image courtesy of Georgia State Parks.

*All of the parks do not offer these activities so be sure to use their new Google Map search feature to find the perfect park for your family. 

What Georgia State Parks have you been to?

10 Minuscule Tips For Camping With Munchkins

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Last week I blogged about our family vacation and how much fun we had camping and learning together as a family. Today I am sharing 10 Minuscule Tips For Camping With Munchkins!

1) Pack lots of Ziplock baggies. 1 Gallon Ziplock baggies are perfect for storing all the treasures I am sure your your kids will pick up during your adventure!
2) Check to see if there are any geocaches at the campground you are staying at. If so pack some treasures to exchange.
3) Pack educational board games. Who says you cannot take learning on the road. Here are some of our favorite board games. If you have limited space in your car to transport games here is a great website with lots of fun old fashioned camp games. Like the, I'm Going On A Camping Trip, game!
4) Take along your nature journals. There will be lots of opportunity to have some fun drawing and writing about nature.
5) Warning kids get very dirty on camping trips. Pack dark clothes and extra clothes as well.
6) Pack some of your children's favorite books. Sometimes it can be very hard and scary to fall asleep in a tent. Make your children more comfortable by reading them a bedtime story.
7) Set boundaries for children. A campground can be lots of fun but it can be easy for children to get lost. Make sure you discuss with your children the boundaries, campsite number (if they should get lost), etc.
8) Discuss various dangers: poison ivy, dangerous animals, water safety etc.
9) Pack some fun toys: Frisbee's, water guns, balls, beach toys etc.
10) Ask the campsite if they offer any type of special programming. Many State parks offer workshops, children activities, etc. These can be lots of fun and are educational too.

Be sure to browse through all of our other Top 10 Posts!

Linking up with: Top Ten Tuesday, Ben and Me