Giving You the KNOW Before You Go

Southern Soul Barbeque - St Simons Island, Ga

Expedition Mom — Tue, 02 Apr 2013 14:14:54 +0000

Seen on both Food Network and TLC, as well as being featured in pages of Southern Living; Southern Soul Barbeque serves up it’s celebrated ‘que’ without excessive flair. Pull up a picnic table; the kiddos will be spellbound watching planes descending into the local airport, while the adults bask in a relaxed ambiance complete with ‘soul’ music.

Southern Soul Barbeque
2020 Demere Road
St. Simons Island, GA
(912) 638-7686
www.southernsoulbbq.com

Dining Type Sandwiches, barbeque plates, and ‘southern’ sides; full service bar with beer on tap

Ambiance Casual and easy-going

What’s to Eat
Their approach to food mimics the ambiance - simplicity that works. Their barbeque is cooked on smokers adjacent to the outside seating. You will not find meat that is overpowered with seasoning. If you are diabetic though, proceed with caution because these boys use lots of sugar and honey on their products. The sweetness cooked on nothing but wood is moist perfection.
Our pulled pork portion was HUGE. We are talking chunks of yumminess, as opposed to the shaved variety. There are 4 choices of sauce to personalize your grub, including a hot & spicy that is appealing to the masses; a perfect layer of taste with just the right amount of kick.
As a good ‘southern gal’, I have had my fair share of greens. While novices often try them ‘virgin’ style, I was raised knowing you added peppered vinegar sauce for a palatable experience. Just for giggles I opted for a virgin bite here. Shock and surprise!! Southern Soul uses their pork rub in their concoction of greens, making them preferable without pepper sauce.
In lieu of french fry sides, opt for the more unique offering of fried green beans. Their size and shape made for the perfect carrier to sample the variety of sauces on site.

Location, Location, Location
Occupying an old 1940s gas station and situated at the corner of Malcolm McKinnon Airport, this joint oozes ambiance.

Peek Inside
A walk inside this ‘hole in the wall’ style joint yields a bar-like counter to order at with minimal inside seating. If you have a large family or party, then just go ahead and know in your mind that you will be seating yourself outside. Sitting outside is not a banishment, but rather the optimal place to soak up the environment.
Outside you are greeted by three rows of wooden picnic style seating; flanking one end is the side parking lot and the other by the black, hot metal smoker from which the meat of your order was cooked to perfection.
Oddly-situated road-side at a round-a-bout, the noise from cars is minimal. Any noise is drowned out by the sound of Johnny Cash on the sound system.

Kid Focus
Often the hardest thing with kids is keeping them entertained when they are not actively eating. Here that is solved. On the other side of the round-a-bout is McKinnon Airport. Your vantage on the picnic tables allows you to watch as planes come into view just before clearing the tops of the trees and making their landing on the runway just out of view. Our boys cheered with delight each time they spied one of these small planes.
Only caution is on a windy day, the smoke from the giant smoker can whip around and irritate sensitive eyes. Opt for a seat towards the end opposite, which will also cut down on the mommy paranoia of little hands touching the hot smoker.
We have a grilled cheese aficionado is our posse. Even though it was not on the menu, they whipped up a fantastic specimen for him.

Customer Service
The girls brought our order out with a smile, amongst the throng of our boys clamoring for their edible treasures. One of the joys of this place is its simplicity, so don’t expect a lot of fawning over your party. You will not have a waiter hovering every five minutes to see if you are happy. All our needs were met and questions answered with minimal interaction after our order.

Disclosure
Thanks to the Southern Soul Barbeque for our complimentary meal. Our opinions cannot be bought and are honest and completely our own.

by Lori McMillen Brown

The 4th of May cafe -- St Simons, Ga

Expedition Mom — Tue, 26 Mar 2013 17:42:53 +0000

Named for the shared birthday of the three friends who founded this restaurant, 4th of May is full of charm, sweet-southern simplicity, and a damn good pimento cheese. This cafe has something for everyone and caters to making you feel comfortable and welcome. Grab a seat outside to soak up the ambiance of the Village Pier area.

The 4th of May cafe
321 Mallory Street
St. Simons Island, GA 31522
(912) 638-5444
www.4thofmay.net

Dining Type All day southern comfort: sandwiches, southern staples, pot luck specials,and seafood. Breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Ambiance Casual and easy-going

What’s to Eat
Expect traditional coastal southern fare, but with attitude: Shrimp & Grits with blackened shrimp and shiitake mushrooms; or Flo’s Burger that is dressed with pimento cheese, fried green tomato and dill pickle aioli. Spiced pecans make an appearance with dried figs and house-made boursin cheese atop artisan lettuce, as a notable appetizer.
Southern cuisine just isn’t traditional without a wide array of vegetables and other side-dishes, and 4th of May does not disappoint. Along with menu residents such as squash casserole, sweet potato fries, black-eyed peas, and tomato pie, be sure to ask about their daily special sides.
We happened upon 4th of May at brunch time. Two mommies traveling with three kiddos were ecstatic to learn that they also had a full bar, allowing for therapeutic mommy-morning MIMOSAS!
While the kiddos opted for more traditional breakfast offerings, we couldn’t help but partake in a pimento cheese plate. While our travels to the Golden Isles offered pimento cheese sampling in plenty, 4th of May was our hands-down, island favorite. The cous cous-like texture was the quintessential balance for pimento cheese consistency. Paired with pickled okra and perfectly toasted points of wheat bread, near perfection was attained. Add the mimosas to the equation and you have found heaven on earth.

Location, Location, Location
4th of May is conspicuously positioned on the corner of Mallery Street and Kings Way. Heralding the turn down the quaint strip of shops to the pier, it provides a perfect place to people watch and take in the ambience of St. Simons.

Peek Inside
Walking in the door, families immediately know that they are not just tolerated but welcomed. The seating area in the entryway has a larger than normal selection of children’s reading, coloring and activity books.
While the inside is inviting and casual, the outside seating is the paragon for your dining experience. Grab a seat towards the railing corner and have some breathing room for the kiddos to be up and about a bit, without fear of invading other customer’s dining space.
Fido bowls conveniently placed outside the railing signal that a well-behaved family bowser could join in the right circumstance.

Kid Focus
The kid menu includes go-to’s such as grilled cheese and chicken fingers. For the ocean-going munchkins, there are smaller portions of grilled or fried shrimp.
Be sure to look past the posted options on the “For the Kids” section, and take advantage of the expansive side dishes. Unlike other Southern restaurants, they don’t label the entire list, including mac and cheese, as vegetable.

Customer Service
The staff was as enjoyable and flavorful as the food. We even had the opportunity to speak to Flo. She is one of the best friends for whom the name sake of the restaurant makes a reference. After the other ‘friends’ retired, Flo’s son joined on. Flo now runs the Fourth of May Catering Company.

Disclosure
Thanks to the 4th of May Restaurant for our media discount. Our opinions cannot be bought and are honest and completely our own.

by Lori McMillen Brown

Membership has it’s privileges - CMA Toddler Book Club

Expedition Mom — Fri, 22 Mar 2013 02:50:10 +0000

In A Nutshell
Atlanta’s only hands-on museum for kids, the Children’s Museum of Atlanta , continues to bring learning to life by offering a 10-week toddler book club series. Each week, toddlers and their caregivers will gather to enjoy an interactive story time, complete with songs and an art activity. And the best part? Your kiddo gets to keep the book featured that day!

We had an opportunity to visit during the current 10-week program (you know, to give you the KNOW before you go!). While this one is ending, a new 10-week session will be starting soon. Stay tuned for more information so that you can also enjoy the fun.

You’ll begin with an art activity to get your toddler engaged in the theme of the day while you wait for all of the kids to arrive. Not only does this get their little wheels turning, but also it’s a great distraction if you have a little one that is wondering why mommy ushered them through the museum without stopping. Following the art activity and book reading, an Imaginator will help bring the theme to life with songs and role-playing. Our book was The Going To Bed Book by Sandra Boynton. We acted out what you do to prepare for bed, and the kids got to use their energy and cute personalities to answer questions about going to bed. Kids are free to roam the room and express themselves any way that they would like. It can be challenging to get young ones to stay focused, but they enjoyed the activities. The program lasted about 30 minutes.

Let’s be honest, this program is a little pricey if you do not have a membership with Imagine It! already. This is designed as an adjunct opportunity for members; the program charge only covers their cost for 10 books (1 book for each session). As of the writing of this post, there is a membership sale going on RIGHT NOW! Woot!

If you are NOT a member, you can still participate (it just costs more – about $35 per visit over the 10 weeks).

Whether you are a member or not, you can try out a class by dropping in on a class - based on availability. The cost is $10 (plus museum admission) for non-members or $7.50 for members (who already get free museum admission). Just a note, they are expecting the 15-member class to fill to capacity in the upcoming second session, which means 2 things: Drop in option will be very limited, and you should get a membership and sign up right away!

Stay tuned for information and dates for the next Toddler Book Club. We will let you know, but you can also find out more information by checking out the website.

See our general Children’s Museum of Atlanta Adventure Guide

-- Melissa, Ambassador

Disclosure
Thanks to Imagine It! for our complimentary program visit. While our entrance was gratis, our opinions cannot be bought and are honest and completely our own.

St. Simons Island Lighthouse

Expedition Mom — Tue, 12 Mar 2013 14:09:23 +0000

St. Simons Lighthouse and Keeper's Museum

For the best view of Pier Village and St. Simons Sound, all it takes is 129 steps...up that is! Make the ascent of this working lighthouse, tour the Keeper’s Dwelling Museum, and take in the surrounding history. Don’t be alarmed if you hear something strange. Many people have reported hearing footsteps in the tower, said to be those of the head keeper who met an untimely end during an altercation with his assistant.

St. Simons Island Lighthouse Museum
101 12th St. (at corner of Beachview Drive)
St. Simons, GA
912-638-6609
http://www.saintsimonslighthouse.org

Age Appropriateness
To fully experience it all, you have to be able to climb up 129 stairs and then back down 129 stairs. Should this not be in your ability, there is still the Keeper’s Museum and grounds to see. Admission also includes the Maritime Museum at the Historic Coast Guard Station, located on East Beach at 4201 1st Street.
Caution must be used with younger children. If you have babies/toddlers, then a sling or backpack would be the wisest choice. If utilizing a sling, be sure to wear it on your back so you can still see your feet.
4 years old is our suggested minimum age for climbing. Even with our boys being 4, they were closely supervised on the way up and hands were held tightly on the way down.

Parking
Parking is free.

Accessibility
Terrain
Even though the lighthouse saw a renovation in 2010, the spiral staircase has typical steps known as winders. These steps are narrower on one side than the other. The same way you go up, is the path that others came back down.
Gear Needed
If it is the least bit breezy on the ground, then it will be blustery at the top. For kiddos with sensitive ears, consider a hat or windbreaker. Leave your flip flops for the beach and opt for tennis shoes here.

Time Management
Visiting Hours
The last chance to climb the lighthouse is at 4:30pm. They are very strict about this time for the last climb.
The Maritime Museum, located down the street at East Beach, keeps the same general hours. Be aware thought that they close daily from noon - 1 pm, for lunch.
Exploring the Lighthouse and Keeper's Museum
Don’t expect to sprint up the lighthouse steps. If you are in a hurry, then this is not your cup of sweat-tea. The same steps you are heading up, are the ones that others are coming down. Caution and patience has to be exercised when passing.
Your prize is the view from the top. Take some time to really take it in. This vantage really lets you see that the buoys out in the sound make a "road" for ships to follow.

Money Management
Tickets
Children under 6 years are free. Admission is discounted for ages 6-11, and Coastal Georgia Historical Society members are free.
Admission also includes the Historic Coast Guard Station, located on East Beach at 4201 1st Street.

Restrooms
Clean restrooms are available just outside the gift shop area. These are actually gorgeous restrooms with massive wooden stall doors that look as though they were made for a giant.

Eats and Treats
There are no concessions located at the Lighthouse Museum itself. Use the time up top to scope out Pier Village, where a mutltitude of eating options exists. Crab cakes at Barbara Jean’s, our favorite Golden Isles pimento cheese at 4th of May, or the most deee-lish ice cream at St Simons Sweets.
Should you have a sudden sugar plumet after your climb, there are some packaged southern sweets in the gift shop by the cashwrap area.

Don’t Miss
Picture Opportunities
Who doesn’t love iconic lighthouse pictures?? Don’t forget to get a picture of your family at the top with the high-altitude scenery in the back, like we forgot to do!
Gift Shop
Their gift shop has a wonderful collection of local history books, and eclectic souveniers with southern charm. This is not the best gift shop to have little kiddos in without you nervously clinging them close. Best to let them play outside with Daddy, and let Mom have a few minutes to gander. Our kiddos loved purchasing a lighthouse pin to put on their backpacks, after conquering their first lighthouse climb!

Kid’s Comments
“Look!! We can see our car from up here!” – Connor, 4 years old. The view afforded a nice vantage of Neptune Parl, Pier Village, and St. Simons Sound.
Disclosure
Thanks to the Golden Isles CVB and St Simons Lighthouse/Coastal Georgia Historical Society for our complimentary tickets. While our visit was complimentary, our opinions cannot be bought and are honest and completely our own.

by Lori McMillen Brown

St Simons Trolley Tours -- St Simons, GA

Expedition Mom — Thu, 07 Mar 2013 20:59:15 +0000

St Simons Trolley

The history of St Simons is often upstaged by stories of the "new rich" of Jekyll Island, but St Simons possesses a colorful past in it's own right. See the site of the Battle of the Bloody Marsh, Fort Frederica, Retreat Plantation, and more. Take a walking tour of the grounds of historic Christ Church, and learn about the characters buried there. St Simon's Trolley Tours unravels this history in a fun manner with a ride on a vintage trolley and a humerous (and amazingly informative) driver!

St. Simons Island Trolley Tours
St. Simons Pier Village
St. Simons, GA
912-638-8954
www.stsimonstours.com

Age Appropriateness
Kids who are not yet walking will do fine on this trolley and will enjoy the shade and breeze delivered in the summer heat. Older kids will enjoy it as much as the adults. It's the ages in between that you must consider. Toddlers and preschoolers must be able to handle a 90 minute tour without a restroom break. There are no seatbelts in this vintage trolley, so our kiddos were thrilled to sit on their knees and look out the window as we drove around. Having a few snacks on hand made it more smooth as well. There is a stop at a church, which has a nice yard to let out some energy before heading back to the Village Pier.

Parking
Parking is free at Village Pier, which is where the trolley leaves from.

Time Management
One Tour Per Day - 90 Minutes Long
There is only one tour per day (11am), so plan your itinerary around it so you don't miss out. This tends to be snack time for most kiddos so pack a few morsels to munch while you are touring. You'll be back at the Pier at 12:30, and luckily there are several outstanding restaurants to walk to for lunch.
Even in "off" season, the trolley was full (probably because there is only 1 per day). Consider arriving early to secure your ticket. There is a playground and pier only a few yards from the loading location, so your kids can let off some steam while waiting for the trolley to depart.

Money Management
Tickets
Children under 4 years are free. Children's rates apply to kiddos age 4-12. It is not necessary to buy tickets ahead of time, which is helpful since parents never know if their younger kiddo is going to be in a mood that makes a trolley ride a "doable" activity for the day.

Restrooms
There are public restrooms on Village Pier for use before you leave and once you return, but there are no restroom stops on the trolley ride so plan accordingly.

Eats and Treats
There are a dozen or so places to eat at Pier Village, the place where the trolley takes off and returns. There is no vending on the trolley or at the trolley stop, Christ Church, a little more than half way through the ride. As a simple rule of etiquitte, I would not suggest eating on the trolley. However, non-messy snacks worked well for our kiddos (cheese bunnies, raisins, etc). Remember, this is a beautifully maintained vintage trolley, and they want to keep it that way. I would leave the yogurt and meatball sub for afterwards.

Don’t Miss
The Trolley Itself
The vintage trolley with its honey-gold wood is a remarkable site to behold. The kids were able to ring the old trolley bell (our driver/guide assisted them in this fun feat). Once everyone has disembarked from the trolley, get your kiddos to walk all the way to the back and look out. If you are standing outside the trolley, this makes a great picture!
The Rich History
Our tour guide shared a wealth of information about the island and its history. I couldn't soak it in fast enough! Situating the yonger kids on the side seats, allowing them to sit on their knees and look out the window helped me to be able to listen to the driver; you might consider the same.
Trolley bell
The trolley bell is there for more than just your kiddos enjoyment. Each time we passed a fun attraction or recommended restaurant or shop, the driver rang his bell. This made it easier to remember the location for returning later.

Kid’s Comments
“This trolley is coooooool.” – Cooper, 4 years old. He enjoyed the magic of the trolley ride, and mom enjoyed the break from her feet, the beautiful scenery and the rich historical commentary.
Disclosure
Thanks to the Golden Isles CVB and St Simons Trolley Tours for our complimentary tickets. While our ride was complimentary, our opinions cannot be bought and are honest and completely our own.

by Lesli Peterson

Jekyll "Passport to the Century" Tram Tour -- Jekyll Island, Ga

Expedition Mom — Thu, 07 Mar 2013 20:56:07 +0000

Jekyll Island Tram Tour

You don’t have to be rich and famous to see how the uber wealthy once played. The Jekyll Island National Historic Landmark District is home to the Jekyll Island Club, whose membership once boasted a representation of one-sixth of the world’s wealth. Hop aboard the “Passport to the Century” tram tour and be in the moment as you travel from it’s more humble beginnings, through the days of being an exclusive retreat for prominent American tycoons, straight through its abandonment and subsequent purchase by the state of Georgia.

Jekyll Island Museum
100 Stable Rd
Jekyll Island, GA
912-635-4036
www.jekyllisland.com

Age Appropriateness
The only thing that limits age for this tour is the ability to be content for 90 minutes. This is a great option for multi-generational vacationers; our tour had infants to grandparents. No seat belts and the wind blowing through their hair, gave the younger kiddos an unusual vantage not normally experienced in a vehicle these days. The constantly changing scenery kept the little ones occupied; while the evolving historical plot was both captivating and edifying for the adults. Even stops at the restored houses had elements to capture the wee ones' attentions, even if just for a moment: toys from the 1800's, antique fire-engine pedal car, and even the precursor to the viewfinder.

Parking
Parking is free at the Jekyll Island Museum. While most places have free parking on the island, there is a $6 fee to get onto the island. Passes are good for 24 hours. Should you be there multiple days, there is a 7 day pass available.

Time Management
Tour schedules
Tour times may change based on the time of year, so be sure to check the website for details. During full operating hours, tours are offered daily at 11am, 1pm and 3pm.
Tour itinerary
The tour is 90 minutes long with two planned stops along the way to explore two restored houses. No restrooms or concessions were available along the tour route.

Money Management
Tickets
Children under 6 years are free. Children's rates apply to kiddos age 6-12. This is a great idea if the weather is questionable. It was overcast and drizzly when we started our tour. The covered tram kept the majority of the moisture off the adults, but allowed just enough for the kids to have some novelty.
Cheaper alternatives
Self-guided walking tours are an option, through the purchase of an E-Guide. Inquire at the Jekyll Island Museum for more information.

Restrooms
Clean restrooms are available in the gift shop area.

Eats and Treats
There is no food along the tour. With two 4yo boys in tow, we did take along our own small snacks. While not appropriate to take in during the house tours, it was not frowned upon while on the tram ride.

Don’t Miss
Picture Opportunities
While pictures on a moving tram are difficult, at best, for the average Joe and camera, the house tours provide ample opportunity for some unique views. The last house, Indian Mound Cottage, has a "million dollar picture" opportunity right from the front portico area, of thevast lawn and Jekyll Island Club. This stop also affords a cute shot with the kids sitting in one of the electric cars that Rockefeller kept on the island.
The Rich History
This tour is rich in island history, as well as odd architectural facts of period. Our guide was keenly aware of the age of all the children on the tour, and made a special effort to engage them.

Kid’s Comments
“Having a Jeep pull the tram is really cool. I LOVE Jeeps!” – Connor, 4 years old. Sometimes it is the little things!
Disclosure
Thanks to Jekyll Island Authority and the Jekyll Island Museum for our complimentary tickets. While our visit was complimentary, our opinions cannot be bought and are honest and completely our own. Thank you to Jekyll Island authority for Jekyll Island Club picture.

by Lori McMillen Brown

Unique Atlanta Egg Hunts - Updated for 2013

Expedition Mom — Sat, 02 Mar 2013 17:07:20 +0000

Can’t remember which egg hunt you did which year, because they all felt the same? We have compiled a list of “Egg Adventures”, all within a day trip of the metro Atlanta area, that have some unique flair and will be sure to stand out.

Babyland Magical Easter Eggstravaganza

Babyland General Hospital

300 N.O.K. Drive

Cleveland, Georgia 30528

Saturday, March 23, 2013 8am - 5pm

The hospital staff has a day of activities planned for you and the ‘Kids in their 70,000 sq. foot, ante bellum home from breakfast with the Easter Bunny, to an arts and crafts festival, dancing with Cabbage Patch Kid costume characters, hourly prize drawings, and a free Easter Egg hunt on the grounds of BabyLand General Hospital with 28,000 eggs. The day’s festivities also include an Easter Parade through the town square in Cleveland.

Check for updates on www.cabbagepatchkids.com

Dinosaur Egg Hunt

Fernbank Museum of Natural History

767 Clifton Road, NE

Atlanta, GA 30307

Saturday, March 30, 2013 9:30am - 2pm

Eggs, games, prizes...oh my! It's time for Fernbank's 4rd annual Dinosaur Egg Hunt. Join Fernbank Museum and some special guests for a day of EGGcellent activities including timed egg hunts, games with the Radio Disney AM590 Street Team, an inflatable slide, a walk-around dinosaur mascot and more.

To ensure a fun time for all, advance registration is required to participate in a timed egg hunt. Space is limited. Hop over to www.fernbankmuseum.org for ticket information and to register.

Egg Scramble: Helicopter Drop

Eastside Baptist Church

2450 Lower Roswell Rd

Marietta, GA 30068

Saturday, March 30, 2013 from 10:30 AM - 1:00 PM

They will feature two egg drops with a helicopter flying in 20,00 eggs and dropping them onto our egg scramble field. There will also be inflatable games, face painting, food, a live band, and more!

Although it is FREE, you do need to pre-register. We did this when Munchkin was 2 yrs old and had just a phenomenal time. The kids are enthralled with the helicopter flying over and it is a sight to see all the eggs falling from the sky out. The atmosphere is that of a small hometown carnival. They had grilled hotdog and hamburger plates for sale, inflatable slides and bouncy houses, picturesque photo opportunity spots, and various games for the kids to play. A great family atmosphere for all! http://ebceggscramble-eorg.eventbrite.com/.

Flashlight “Egg”stravaganza

Kenworth Park

Acworth, Ga

Saturday, March 30, 2013 8:00pm

The City of Acworth Parks and Recreation Department is partnering with Freedom Church to bring the kids of our community a fresh spin on a time honored tradition, Acworth’s first after dark Easter Egg Hunt!!! The Easter Bunny will be “dropping” in on Friday, March 30 at the Acworth Sports Complex, located at 4000 South Main St. Acworth, GA 30101 and he is bringing 20,000 eggs filled with candy. The Easter Bunny will be Skydiving in before the hunt begins! We are encouraging everyone to arrive at 7:30 p.m. to see the grand entrance!! The actual Easter Egg Hunt will begin at 8:00 p.m.

Again this year there will be a Special Needs Easter Egg Hunt on the Horizon Field. This hunt will begin at 8:30 p.m. and is for children through the 5th grade with Special Needs.

For more information on the Friday Night Flashlight “Egg”stravaganza visit www.acworthegghunt.com or call the Acworth Parks and Recreation Office at 770-917-1234.

Magic Monday: Egg Hunt at Smith Family Farm

Atlanta History Center

130 West Paces Ferry Road

Atlanta, GA 30305

Monday, March 11, 2013 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM

Celebrate springtime on the farm during our annual egg hunt. Join the search for colorful eggs hidden throughout Smith Family Farm to win prizes. Participate in fun and games, like the peep toss, doing the bunny hop, and creating spring crafts. A surprise visit from the Easter Bunny delights everyone.

The Egg Hunt is part of their monthly program, Magic Mondays, for toddlers and preschoolers (18 months to five years) engages our youngest visitors in activities that introduce them to history in creative ways.

For tickets: Egg Hunt at Smith Family Farm

The Rock Ranch Easter "Egg-stravaganza"!

The Rock Ranch

5020 Barnesville Highway

The Rock, Georgia 30285

Saturday, March 23, 2012 11am - 2pm

The Rock Ranch Easter Eggstravaganza, a free community egg hunt, will be held Saturday, March 23. The Rock Ranch will open the gates at 11 a.m. and the event concludes at 2 p.m.

More than 26,000 prize eggs will be hidden at The Rock Ranch for the event. Age-specific egg hunts will be held across the 1,250-acre ranch owned by Chick-fil-A founder S. Truett Cathy.

For more information, visit www.therockranch.com, call 706-647-6374 or find them on Facebook.

Underwater Egg Hunt

Boundary Waters Athletic COmplex

Douglasville, Ga

Saturday, March 23, 2013

A fun twist to your traditional egg hunt! Kids will enjoy the underwater egg hunt, visiting the Easter Bunny, making cool crafts, and doing fun activities. Plus, you can stay and swim! Bring your swimsuit and towel. Ages 7 - 12 years old. Pre-registration required. Call 770.489.2175 for more information and fees. All pool rules apply. See aquatic guidelines.

Yogi Bear’s Easter Egg Hunt

Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park

106 King Street

Bremen, GA 30110

Saturdays in March 1pm - 5pm

You are invited to bring the family to camp at the Jellystone Park™ in Bremen, GA for a spring-filled fun Easter Egg Hunt with bunnies, basket decorating for the kids, train rides, hay rides and of course, Yogi Bear™! The hunt, which includes an Easter Basket as well, is only $3.00 per child in addition to the camping rate.

If you come for a day pass only, the cost is $6 for children (includes basket) and $4 for adults (rates subject to sales tax). No reservation is required for the Easter Egg Hunts. Visit the Georgia Jellystone Park website for details.

Georgia Sea Turtle Center - Jekyll Island, GA

Expedition Mom — Thu, 28 Feb 2013 03:16:39 +0000

Simone the Sea Turtle

Sea turtles have migrated up to 12,000 miles across ocean and land. Luckily, you don’t have to travel that far to get up close with these reptiles; The Georgia Sea Turtle Center at Jekyll Island is open to the public. Families learn about sea turtles through several interactive exhibits, and view sea turtle patients as they recover from various ailments.

Georgia Sea Turtle Center
214 Stable Rd
Jekyll Island, GA
912-635-4444
http://www.georgiaseaturtlecenter.org

Age Appropriateness
The interactive displays in the Exhibit Gallery target elementary school age and above, but there are elements of each exhibit that can appeal to kids as young as 3. Kids of all ages will enjoy the Rehabilitation Pavilion.

Parking
Parking is free.

Time Management
Visiting Hours
Hours change based on the time of year, so be sure to check the website for details. The Center is CLOSED on Mondays; plan your itinerary accordingly. Tickets sales end 30 minutes prior to closing.
Exploring the Center
Plan to spend about 30 minutes in the Exhibit Gallery in order to peruse the kiosks. If your kiddo is super interested in turtles or likes to read each kiosk in depth, plan to spend about twice that amount of time.
Our kiddos spent about 15-20 minutes in the Rehab Pavilion, and we noticed most groups were flowing in and out at about that rate, even with older kids.

Money Management
Tickets
Children under 3 years are free. Standard discounts are available for children, seniors, military, and teachers.

Restrooms
Clean restrooms are available in the gift shop area.

Eats and Treats
There is no food or vending at this location.

Don’t Miss
The Website
There is a section of the website dedicated to kids. This is a fabulous way to prepare your kiddos for this adventure. Get them excited about seeing the turtles and help the understand the mission of the Center. If you've got younger kiddos (and Netflix) consider watching the Diego episodes about the Turtle and Ocean Rescuer!
Stamp Stations and Turtle Story Sheet
Younger kiddos will enjoy walking through the exhibit and getting a special stamp at each station on a special story sheet. They use stamps of their choosing to build a unique story of their own (pretend) turtle's life. It is great for guiding them through each of the learning kiosks; without it children in the pre-school age group might be tempted to run through the exhibit gallery at neck-breaking speed.
Turtle version of Atari game "Frogger"
There is a kiosk with a game that is reminiscent of the old Atari game "Frogger". Younger kids will enjoy this; it tends to hold their attention for an extended period of time. If you find that younger kiddos want to speed past the exhibit gallery, but the adults or older kids are more interested in spending quality time here, then direct the kiddos to this game and gain an extra 15 -20 minutes to explore.

Kid’s Comments
“I like that the turtle are getting help.” – Cooper, 4 years old. I love that he learned about the turtles, but also understood that this was a special place for them to get help.
Disclosure
Thanks to Jekyll Island Authority and the Georgia Sea Turtle Center for our complimentary tickets. While our visit was complimentary, our opinions cannot be bought and are honest and completely our own.

by Lesli Peterson

4-H Tideland's Nature Center -- Jekyll Island, GA

Expedition Mom — Thu, 28 Feb 2013 02:41:41 +0000

Inside the Exhibit Gallery

This Nature Center is a gem hidden far from the Millionaire Mansions on Jekyll Island. Kids can see live animal exhibits, enjoy the touch-tank, take a canoe ride, and go on a nature walk. There are also several programs offered during the summer months that visitors can take advantage of including live animal feedings, astronomy hikes and more. And at only $3 per person over 2 yrs old, the price is just right.

4-H Tidelands Nature Center
100 S Riverview Drive
Jekyll Island, GA
912-635-5032
http://www.tidelands4h.org/index.html

Age Appropriateness
Children as young as 2 yrs will enjoy seeing the fish, reptiles and other animals up close, and well as exploring the touch tank. Older kids can enjoy the animals, as well as the other adventures the Nature Center provides.

Parking
Parking is free.

Time Management
Plan to spend about 30 minutes inside the Nature Center learning about and viewing the animals. Add an hour or more for taking a canoe trip on the 17-acre pond or getting in some fishing time.
Kayak tours are 3 hours and require reservations. Nature walks are available March - October and last 90 – 120 minutes. They are held at 9am, three days a week at various locations on the island. See the website for more information.

Money Management
The exhibit area is $3 per person (2 and under free). Fishing is free but you must bring your own equipment. Kayaking, canoe rental, guided nature walks and special events are additional costs. This program is run by UGA, making most programs very affordable.

Restrooms
Restrooms are available in the exhibit area.

Eats and Treats
There is no food or vending at this location.

Don’t Miss
The Teeny-Weeny Turtles
Don’t forget to examine the teeny-weeny turtles in the smaller tanks. It is from these tanks that some of Georgia Aquarium’s LARGE resident turtles have originated. You never know; you may be looking and the next big star at Atlanta’s own aquarium!
The “Hometown” Feel
This isn’t a flashy tourist attraction with glossy graphics and highly technical exhibits. This “hometown” attraction focuses more on substance than flash. The heart of this facility is in education about the environment of the marshlands surrounding it.

Kid’s Comments
“Did you see all those turtles?” – Cooper, 4 years old. There are a number of turtles here, much like the Sea Turtle Center. While the Turtle Center focuses on rehabilitation, the turtles at the Nature Center are used for educational purposes.
Disclosure
Thanks to the 4-H Tidelands Nature Center for our complimentary tickets. While our entrance was complimentary, our opinions cannot be bought and are honest and completely our own.

by Lesli Peterson

St Simons Grand (#202) -- St Simons, GA

Expedition Mom — Wed, 27 Feb 2013 16:18:49 +0000

View of The Grand from the beach.

Sun-drenched interior, ocean view, marble floors, and expansive bedrooms and bathrooms. This condo functions as the perfect “home base” for a vacation in the Golden Isles. In fact, this condo and its property alone are enough to satisfy even the most discriminate of travelers with a heated ocean front pool and easily accessible private beach entry.

St Simons Grand #202
1400 Ocean Blvd
St Simons, GA
866-244-3658
Visit Website

Accommodation Type Condominium

Location Type Beach

Level of Accommodation Luxurious

Money Management
Off Peak Rentals
As with any beachfront rental, you will save by staying during the off season.
Extend Your Stay
Extend your stay a full 7 days, and the condo is priced so that your 7th night is free. Stay a whole month (what a fabulous way to spend the summer) and you save 50% or more.
Don’t Go Alone
If you are looking for all the luxurious amenities this condo offers but don’t have the cash for it, consider vacationing with extended family or close friends. With 3 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms, plus a sleeper sofa, there is more than ample space to enjoy beachfront living with multiple families.

Parking
The parking garage is under the condo building so your car is protected from the sun and other elements. There are assigned spaces for each vehicle, which are in close proximity to your unit by either stairs or elevator. Parking is free.

Property Amenities
Amenities
Gated entry, wireless internet, hot tub, and outdoor heated beachside pool. There is also private access to the beach via a short boardwalk.

Eats and Treats
There are no restaurants on the property, but there are over a dozen within three miles. Each room also comes with a full kitchen, coffee maker, and more.

Customer Service
When you arrive at the gate, a staff member will greet you with a package about the property and the room. Should you arrive while there is no staff member present, there is a phone to reach the on-call person.

Proximity
The Grand is on St Simon’s Island, minutes from Village Pier with dozens of restaurants and shops, the Lighthouse, and the St Simon’s Trolley. This pier also has multiple playgrounds for the kids and has proven to be a wonderful place to watch the dolphins play.

Inside the Room
Overview
This condo has marble floors throughout which is very accommodating to spilled juice boxes and misplaced beach towels. There are two bedrooms and two bathrooms at the front of the condo, which also includes a washer and dryer.
The kitchen is spacious and well equipped including a toaster, microwave and coffeepot (bring your own coffee and dish wash soap). There are even toddler utensils! And for mom and dad, a wet bar is located off to the side.
The kitchen is open to the dining room, which easily seats 6, and the living room. The entire expanse of the back wall is sliding glass, opening to a heavenly view of the beach. You can walk onto the full-length balcony, easily 30+ feet long. It is the perfect place to eat breakfast, read a book, or watch dolphins play in the water. The railing is very sturdy, over waist high and rails are close together – kiddo friendly!
Finally, the Master is off the dining room. It boasts a king size bed, patio access, an entertainment center, walk in closet, and full master bath. Mom and Dad will like the double sinks and oversized shower. The kids will have a ball playing in the oversized corner tub with Jacuzzi jets.
Kid Friendly Amenities
This condo is loaded with kid amenities: full sized refrigerator, microwave, over-sized bathtub, washer and dryer, TV with cable as well as VHS and DVD players. There is ample space to run around and play, and the floors are spill-friendly. Separate bedrooms for the kids (including twin beds with kid-welcoming décor), safe balcony railing, and easy access to the beach and the pool round out the child-friendly amenities here.

Don't Miss
Beach Access
It is important to stress the ease of access to the beach that this property offers. Take the elevator down to the parking level, walk past the pool, and then take the wooden gate to the beach. There is no need to fight for parking, cross busy streets, or carry your things across sand dunes. This sort of convenience can ease the stress of a vacation with kids.
Condo not Hotel
This is a condo and not a hotel. There are towels and simple soaps in the bathrooms, and rags and dishwasher detergent in the kitchen. There are dishes and glasses, and pots and pans, as well as a coffee maker and toaster. Ample sheets, blankets and pillows can be found in the closets. Other than that, you will want to bring any necessary conveniences from home.
Disclosure
Thanks to the owners of #202 at The Grand for our complimentary room. While our stay was gratis, our opinions cannot be bought and are honest and completely our own..

by Lesli Peterson