46 Fun things for everyone to this summer (in spite of covid 19!)

May 20, 2020 Jessica Gordon Ryan

We’re all bored in the house, in the house bored and as the weather gets nicer we are getting more restless and more anxious. Many of the things we had hoped to do this summer will have to wait. But, with enough creativity, there is a lot we can do! Below enjoy some of my ideas and things that I have had fun doing with my own children over the years.

1. Reverse Tie Dye

Tie dye is all the rage, but what about reverse tie dye? I had fun with this when my youngest was young. So many of his Polo shirts were coming home stained and not wanting to toss them I decided to have a little fun. We LOVED the results. This can be done with sheets, pillow cases, cloth napkins, jeans… anything really. The sky’s the limit! (Apologies - the photos below are 11 years old!) Directions and original blog post here.

2. Make Collages

We love to collage. Even now that the kids are nearly fully grown. Of, course they’ve changed in style over the years, but they’re always fun and you don’t have to be artistic for them to come out beautifully!
We have these for the very young, and you can incorporate them with a story. They’ll also LOVE these using cut out construction paper and recycled popsicle sticks.

Years ago I took the kids to The Eric Carle museum in Massachusetts and it happened to be the Very Hungry Caterpillar’s 40th Birthday. We did all sorts of Carle-inspired collages. They’re super easy to do at home! Why not collage with newspaper or even wrapping paper?!

3. Make your own ice cream! We’ve had such fun over the years with our YayLabs ice cream ball. Want something to do the work for you? Cuisinart’s ice cream maker will not disappoint! Here’s a link to some great ice cream recipes and ideas. (See below)

4. Have a picnic at home - We love making cheese and charcuterie platters for our at home picnics. See below.

5. Make s’mores without a fire pit

We’ve had so much fun doing this in our screened in porch on rainy 4th of Julys. All you need are sterno cans, sticks, marshmallows, chocolate and graham crackers. Or totally kick up your smores game with other goodies such as Nutella and peanut butter.

Here’s a link to some great S’mores with a Twist recipes.

6. Have a backyard campout

7. Paint seashells (or rocks or pine cones)

8. Organize a treasure hunt/scavenger hunt - This can be a lot of fun for adults too!

9. Start a journal

10. Start a photo journal - All you need is the camera from your smart phone.

11. Make dill pickles

12. As they open up, visit a new ice cream stand every week

13. As they open up, discover new lobster roll shacks. Or make your own and have an outdoor picnic or bring them to the beach (if your town permits)

Recipe for New England style Lobster Rolls

Screen Shot 2020-05-18 at 2.06.20 PM.png

4 cups cooked lobster meat, cut into bite-size pieces

1/2 cup low-fat mayonnaise

1/4 cup chopped green onions

1 tablespoon chopped celery

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

1/2 teaspoon salt

Dash hot sauce

4 hot dog buns

Assemble all the ingredients together and mix well. Then spoon into hot dog buns. We prefer them slightly toasted.

14. As they open up visit a vineyard

15. Make Sun tea

16. Search for seashells and seaglass

17. Start a container garden

18. Start a vegetable garden from your kitchen scraps

19. Take a long bike ride

20. Take a hike!

21. Make your own lemonade

22. Make your own limoncello

23. Go berry picking (where and when allowed)

24. Make your own fresh berry jam!

25. Have a water balloon fight!

26. Watch a summer thunderstorm -

I love nothing more than to sit outside in a screened-in or covered porch or deck and watch the summer sky light up followed by the distant clap of thunder… Bring a sweater, blanket and a glass of wine and enjoy some of nature’s prettiest sights and sounds!

27. Go stargazing

28. Watch the sunrise

29. Make Whipped Coffee

30. Celebrate Christmas in July!

It’s been a crazy year. Why not take out some of your favorite ornaments, play some music and bake up some of your favorite holiday treats. Invite a few friends over and have a Christmas party in July!

31. Create an inspiration board or book -

There’s no time like the present! While we’re no longer sheltering in place, we’re still enjoying a slowed pace. What’s your dream come true? What would you love to do next? Capture it all on a vision board or book. According to the popular book The Secret, "The law of attraction is forming your entire life experience and it is doing that through your thoughts. When you are visualizing, you are emitting a powerful frequency out into the Universe." If it doesn’t work you’ll have something closely resembling a work of art!

32. Perform a random act of kindness

33. Take a hike!

34. Create an obstacle course in your backyard (for kids)

35. Create an obstacle course in your swimming pool (if you’re lucky enough to have one!)

36. Go skinny dipping at midnight!

36. Hang a tire from a large tree branch

37. Find a drive in… This will be the summer of the drive-in for sure!

When the beaches open up…

38. Sip champagne when the sun sets… This is my favorite thing to do!

39. Have an evening picnic - save the cooking and cleaning. Order from your favorite restaurant!

40. Learn how to Kayak

41. Learn how to paddle board

42. Ride the waves on a boogie board

43. Make a sandcastle

44. Make sand candles (this can also be done at home)

45. Make blueberry or strawberry bread

46. For some terrific Covid-safe ideas for things to do in your state visit Only in Your State.com

A Checklist: 80 things to do this summer

May 24, 2019 Jessica Gordon Ryan

Every summer I make a list of things I want to do by Labor Day. Some things I want to do with my kids, while others not. Some of the items on my list are simple, plan an evening picnic on the beach, collect and paint rocks, find the best ice cream. Others require a bit more planning such as, visiting a vineyard, chartering a boat, etc… Have fun with this list - adapt it to your lifestyle and where you live. You can make it more kid-friendly, or more “grown up” if you’re an empty nester. Print it out and have fun. Life is short. Enjoy your summer!

Take a road trip to somewhere new
Visit a vineyard
Try a new outdoor sport (such as paddle boarding, kayaking, golf or horseback riding)
Go to the beach (lake, park, rooftop) and watch the sunrise.
Go to the beach (lake, park, rooftop) and sip champagne as the sun sets.
Collect shells
Collect sea glass
Visit a new ice cream shop every week
Ride a Merry Go Round
Start a quest for the best Lobster Roll
Go berry picking and make home made jam
Prepare a meal using only ingredients from the farm or farmer's market
Make a pitcher of sun tea
Start a vegetable/herb/fruit garden
Start a container garden (better for children and those of us with black thumbs!)
Make s'mores with various flavors (strawberries, raspberries, peanut butter cups)
Make ice cream using rock salt and a plastic bag, or this way. (Great activity for kids)
Go for a hike or a long walk someplace new
Charter a boat
Ride a ferry
Host a pool party
Host an outdoor movie party
Go to a drive-in
Visit a museum
Visit a zoo
Visit a botanical garden
Make a Summer 2016 "Mix Tape" from your iTunes
Lose yourself in a good summer book
Organize a potluck picnic
Swim in the rain (but not in the lightning!)
Go skinny dipping!
Kiss in the rain
Go kayaking
Go paddle boarding
Camp out on the beach (by the lake) and look for shooting stars
Go to an outdoor concert
Record your day with pictures
Hang some bird feeders and count all the varieties that stop by
Rent a convertible
Play tourist in your hometown
Buy several bunches of flowers and make a pretty display
Sleep on the porch
Watch a rainstorm
Make Lemonade from scratch
Make Limoncello
On a particularly hot or rainy day lose yourself in Netflix
Visit one new outdoor restaurant a week
If you have little ones: Create a scavenger hunt with pictures in your neighborhood
If you have teens: Create a scavenger hunt in town - have the kids text their finds
Take a surfing lesson
Go boogie boarding
Go for a long bike ride somewhere new
Try Geocaching with the family
Go crabbing/clamming
Make sand candles
Start a journal and fill it with ideas, thoughts, dreams and aspirations
Start an illustrated/paint/photography journal
Go to an outdoor flea market/antiques fair
Host a Christmas Party on a hot day in July!
Go to a matinee
Color and hide "Easter" eggs
Unplug for a day
Host a clam bake
Take a sailing lesson
Make a large batch of gazpacho - try yellow and green varieties too
"Create" a new smoothie flavor
Go ziplining
Go to a minor league baseball game
Eat a hotdog
Have a Create your own Burger contest
Visit a local brewery
Visit a local distillery
Go for a "midnight" swim
Spend a hot rainy day in bed
Plan a lunch date with the girls
Go for a long walk or run
Make blueberry bread with freshly picked blueberries
Go to a local fair
Go to a carnival and jump on some rides!
Have an indoor picnic (No mosquitos! No ants!)

Westport's Best Kept Secret :: Hummock Island Oyster Tours

September 10, 2017 Jessica Gordon Ryan

Hummock Island Oyster Tours, Westport, CT. All images property of Jessica Gordon Ryan and The Entertaining House

About a week or so ago I had the privilege of joining a group of 8 led by Jeff Northrop Senior and Junior for a newly created Oyster Farm Tour on the family-owned Hummock Island in Westport, Connecticut. An oyster lover myself, I couldn't pass up this opportunity. I've only recently come to truly appreciate just how delicious those are in our own backyard.

We gathered in front of Elvira's, a small deli, where we met Jeff Sr. who took us over to the island. The adventure began when we climbed into the boat. The ride itself, less than 10 minutes, set the tone for the rest of the evening to come. It was one that was both informative and yet casual and relaxing.

Hummock Island Oyster Tours - Jeff Northrup, Sr.

Scenic boat ride to Hummock Island on Oyster Tour

As we motored across Sherwood Mill Pond we learned a little bit about the surrounding waters. We saw the oyster cages all lined up and learned that each cage houses roughly 1000 oysters. These farmed bivalves feed off of the algae which occurs naturally in the pond waters. Oysters get the nutrients from the algae by filtering the water through their gills. Because of this, and because there are so many oysters in the Mill Pond, the water is significantly cleaner than even the Long Island Sound. For more on what oysters eat hop on over to In a Half Shell, a wonderful website dedicated entirely to oysters.

Once we got to Hummock Island guests settled into Adirondack chairs on the porch while Jeff Senior told us of the history of oystering in Connecticut and how the company came to be. It all began 1741 when the pond was awarded as a grant from the British King and a hundred or so years later a house was erected on the tiny island which would serve as a residence for the “oyster guard” who kept watch over the surrounding waters. The farm is still family run by Jeff Northrop Sr. and was most recently joined by son Jeff Jr. who left a career in finance to help his father with the business.

Westport-based Hummock Island Oyster Company has long been known for their outstanding oysters and their clients are indeed impressive ones with distribution in New York, Boston and Pennsylvania. Upscale local restaurants such as The Whelk and Pearl at Longshore get their oysters from Hummock Island. The highly acclaimed Blue Hill Farm relies on Hummock Island exclusively.

While "dad" took on the role of historian, "son" was shucking away on the other end of the porch, halving the oysters for us to taste. Jeff Jr. Showed us how to properly shuck an oyster and walked us through the tasting. There were no accoutrements - no lemon, mignonette or cocktail sauce - to top them off with and so what one tastes is the natural salinity of the water in which they live and the briny, sweetness of the meats themselves.

Hummock Island Oyster Tours - Jeff Northrop, Jr.

Guests enjoy themselves on the porch as Jeff Sr. discusses the intricacies of oyster farming

Our Oyster Tour's Youngest guest - along for the ride. (Hummock Island Oyster Tours)

The experience is family friendly and exciting for adults and children of all ages. In fact, children are encouraged to attend, and those under 12 are free with a paying adult.

Jeff Jr shows guests how to properly shuck an oyster. (Hummock Island Oyster Tour)

Nutritional Benefits of Raw Oysters

I wondered after eating what seemed to be an endless amount, whether one could eat too many of these delicious bivalves. And then I decided that the answer was no! In fact, the nutritional benefits are many. A single serving has about 5 grams of protein and about 2 grams of carbohydrates. They're also high in calcium, potassium, magnesium, and vitamin B-12, as well as zinc and iron.

Oyster cages and tumblers help to sort oysters, separating them by size, eliminating those too small and helping to distribute nutrients. This ensures that the best possible products are being delivered to restaurants and distributors. Thanks to modern technology, their farming process is smarter and more sustainable, something which is of great importance to the Northrop family.

Unlike many other oyster farms, no additives are added to Hummock Island oyster cages. Their tidal gates allow for over 2.5 million cubic meters of fresh, nutrient-rich water to enter the pond where shallow waters create the perfect environment for cultivating firm white meats, beautiful shell formation, and an intimate merroir.

While we were there 2 blue crabs and several small fish found themselves among the oysters in a cage and Jeff Jr released them back into the pond. It was amusing to watch them scamper off the deck sideways directly towards the water. They needed no help with directions!

I recently spoke with Jeff Jr. and asked about the inspiration behind these newly-created tours. "We wanted to be able to offer the community something completely different; to provide an unforgettable, one-of-a-kind experience that's engaging, informative and fun. We also want to be able to share this indescribably special place that's right in everyone's backyard."

Having had the incredible opportunity to visit Hummock Island myself I can attest to the fact that the experience truly is one that is magical and unforgettable.

Artists and photographers take note! The setting on Hummock Island, especially at sunset is pure magic. We caught the most spectacular lighting as light and shadows shifted over the course of the evening. In addition to delicious oysters, you'll be inspired to paint or take pictures! See below.

The views from Hummock Island at Sunset. Westport, CT

Hummock Island Oyster Farm Tour Takeaways and Tips

Tour Schedule (Approx an hour and a half):

Our time was leisurely and unrushed as we toured the small island, learned the lores of the oyster business and the house on the island. The tour was informative and entertaining.

Parking is indeed a challenge.
Those from Westport can find limited on-street parking (with proof of residency) and those from surrounding areas and out of town can temporarily park at the site of the former Positano Restaurant. You'll meet at Elvira's, a small deli. There you can load up on water and snacks and use the bathrooms as there are none on the island. You'll walk across the street to Tide Gates at Old Mill where you'll hop on a boat which will take you over to Sherwood Mill Pond to Hummock Island. During the busy summer months consider using Uber or having someone drop you off.
Arrive a few minutes early.
Because parking is a challenge and because you don't want to keep everyone waiting.
In case of inclement weather a rain date will be offered.

Dress comfortably and sensibly and for the weather.
In the spring and fall evenings can get chilly. Wear sweaters and bring jackets. Sunglasses are a good idea.
Wear boots or shoes that can get wet.
Bring your own snacks to enjoy with the oysters.
Crackers and cheese, wine and champagne are popular choices.
Make sure your phones are fully charge.
You WILL want to take pictures
Photographers, bring your cameras and any additional lenses you may want.
Artists, brings your sketchbooks, pens and pencils

For more information and to book your own tour visit their website here, http://www.hummockisland.com/

Thank you Northrops, for an absolutely wonderful and unforgettable experience!

80 Things to do this summer :: Make it a #summertoremember!

June 9, 2017 Jessica Gordon Ryan

80 Things to do this summer. Image via Indulgy

Every summer I make a list of things I want to do - from the simplest of things like catching fireflies with my youngest to those that require more planning like taking road trips throughout New England. It's easy to fall into the daily routine of mundaneness, even in summertime. There are a few things that make the list every year that I never seem to be able to get to and yet I write them down none the less... One day I will get to these things... One day I will! I also leave room at the bottom for the things I hadn't written but have done. It's good fun to look back at the list at the end of the season. For those with kids headed off to college, and for those with young kids these lists can also help with planning. Why not include the whole family and see what ideas everyone else contributes. Feel free to use my list for inspiration and build your own from there.

80 Things to do this summer :: Make it a #summertoremember! Image via Pinterest

Make ice cream from scratch - using salt, ice + cream or an ice cream ball
Make s'mores
Have a picnic dinner on the beach
Wake up early and watch the sunrise from the beach (lake, etc)
Go paddleboarding
Go kayaking
Learn to surf
Learn to sail
Discover new ice cream shops
Start a visual journal with either photos or illustrations
Discover new outdoor restaurants
Start a quest for the best Lobster rolls
Make your own dill pickles
Bake a loaf of strawberry bread for your neighbor (or keep it for yourself!)
Play mini golf
Go horseback riding (take a lesson!)
Go ice skating
Have a Christmas Party in July
Visit a local vineyard
Visit a local brewery
Visit a local distillery
Go to a fair
Go to an amusement park
Go waterskiing
Go inner tubing on a lake or lazy river
Climb a ropes course and go ziplining
Take a nap on the porch
Make Sun tea
Go to a flea market
Picnic at an outdoor concert
Search for sea glass or shells
Have a movie marathon on a hot, steamy or rainy weekend
Start a container garden
Go on a ferry or boat ride
Rent a convertible
Make a "tape" with your favorite songs of the summer
Visit a museum
Explore a new town
Stay at a local hotel for the perfect "staycation"
Go to the farmer's market and make lunch or dinner with only local ingredients
Visit a local botanical garden
Host an outdoor movie night - (great for kids of all ages!)
Create an obstacle course in your backyard (great for kids)
Go on a hike
Find local attractions you haven't been to and visit a few of them
Make fresh Lemonade
Create a scavenger hunt (great for kids)
Host a Make your Own Sundae Party (great for kids and teens)
Pick your own strawberries
Pick your own blueberries
Bake a pie using your freshly picked berries
Make your own strawberry jam (It's so much easier than you'd think!)
Visit a local carnival
Make your own pickles
Wash a car or have teens host a car wash
Set up a lemonade stand with your children
Visit a waterpark
Have a water balloon fight
Have a sponge ball fight
Tie-dye some old T-shirts, sheets or pillow cases
REVERSE tie-dye some stained shirts. The results are amazing!!
Peruse a bookstore
Peruse your local library
Unplug for a couple of hours and lose yourself in a good book
Take a floral arranging class
Take a watercolor class
Learn calligraphy
Have breakfast on the beach
Sit on the porch and watch a thunderstorm
Go stargazing - be on the lookout for shooting stars
Plan a family road trip
Have a Christmas in July party, with decorations, music and all!
Swim or go in a hot tub in a heavy summer rain (without thunder and lightning!)
Perform a random act of kindness
Create an inspiration board or book
Learn something new
Try a new sport or form of exercise
Create an obstacle course in a swimming pool
Go skinny dipping at midnight
Make your own fringe jeans or shorts

80 Things to do this summer - Image via Pinterest

Cream & Sugar Cafe Scoops up some Freakishly Large Shakes

February 24, 2017 Jessica Gordon Ryan

A version of this article first appeared in CTBites.

Over-sized, over-decadent milkshakes are becoming quite the "thing" lately. They're as much an activity as they are a treat. Cream & Sugar Café in Bethel, Connecticut is the latest to jump on this milkshake bandwagon and it seems as though they've brought the extreme to even new extremes!

Until a few weeks ago Cream & Sugar Café was relatively unknown. Located in the heart of Bethel, the café enjoyed a steady stream of local customers stopping in throughout the day for coffee, crepes and ice cream. Owner Alyce Kallman had been wanting to open a creperie, a nostalgic nod to her childhood in Morocco and after moving to Connecticut from California she set out to pursue this dream. She found the perfect spot that had been an ice cream parlor. One rainy day over winter break this would prove to be pure serendipity. The first Freakshake, The Rainy Day Remedy, was born and with thanks to social medial, word on these larger than life milkshakes started to spread like wildfire. Kids began pouring in, taking their own pictures, sharing them on Instagram, creating a high demand for these insanely large ice cream creations.

“We never expected them to be so popular. We have long lines out the door with wait times of up to an hour, sometimes even more. After school and weekends are the busiest,” said Kallman who has had hire additional staff to keep up with the demand. The restaurant will soon undergo a slight re-organization allowing for more counter space and the ability to form separate lines – one for ice cream, another for the shakes. She admits to being overwhelmed by all the business. “We weren’t prepared for all this and we are doing our best to accommodate everyone.”

These shakes are larger than life – they are the Super Bowl of Milkshakes – attracting customers like young Brooklyn hipsters from several hours away.

Shakes include Crazy for Coconut, Peanut Butter Crush Brownie Milkshake and S’mores, yet each is fully customizable. I was asked if I wanted to try one of these monstrous frozen desserts and then told that I wasn’t expected to finish it. (Finish it?!!) How could I turn down such an offer?

I followed Alyce behind the counter where I saw her add scoop after scoop after scoop after scoop, (for a total of nine!!!) some freshly brewed espresso and toss it all into the Vitamix. Noticing my expression at the sheer amount of ice cream, she said “Don’t worry, our scoops are small, they blend down to nothing!” I felt my hips rapidly expanding and wondered how this blonde Californian stayed so slim. Once the milkshake was ready she poured it into a glass mug that had been decorated with chocolate sauce. This was just the beginning. I learned that it takes roughly 10 minutes to construct one of these shakes. 10 minutes!

On top of the mug she placed a generous slice of a three-layer chocolate cake, to which she added whipped cream, a very generously-sized chocolate chip cookie, more whipped cream, a brownie, and even more whipped cream. This was held together by poky (thin chocolate covered cookies that resemble skewers) as well as a couple of paper straws (which added a pop of color) and a Hershey bar. I watched in awe as even more whipped cream was added. Along the base she placed several Oreo cookies on a bed of yet more whipped cream. (Surely she used the entire can!) But that wasn’t it - I watched as she added mini chocolate chips to the base and drizzled gobs of chocolate fudge and marshmallow sauce all over the top. Not until the edible glitter was sprinkled over the top was it complete.

I marveled at this creation presented to me and started shooting images as whipped cream tumbled from the top to the plate below like snow spilling from branches after a storm.
I unwrapped a long straw and stuck it into my shake where my mouth met coffee flavored deliciousness with just a touch of mint. My eyes may have rolled back in my head. Alyce then joined me and elaborated on how these treats came about “The ice cream shop was already here so we decided to keep it and I liked the fact that we could offer something for everyone. The shakes were never part of the original plan, but here I was on a slow, rainy day over winter break and I decided to play around. I wanted to make something different, something bigger and better that hadn’t been done before. I sent pictures to my daughter in college and she told me that I had to start selling them. I guess, as they say, the rest is history.”

With the warm weather forecasted this weekend, and Spring lurking around the corner you will want to plug their address for your car's navigation system. Be prepared to wait, as the long lines will no doubt get longer as the weather warms. Each Freakshake serves about 3 people and will run roughly $15.00.

Cream & Sugar is located at 7 PT Barnum Square, Bethel, CT
Hours Sunday – Friday, 12 – 10PM. They are currently closed on Mondays.
www.creamandsugarcafe.net

New York City off the beaten Path :: Untermyer Gardens Conservancy

August 1, 2016 Jessica Gordon Ryan

The Untermeyer Gardens: Hidden Gems of New York City - Photography property of Jessica Gordon Ryan/The Entertaining House

A couple of years ago I read and flagged an article in the New York Times about New York's secret gardens - though I am not sure what the article was actually called. There was a garden near the Bronx and one in Brooklyn. There might have been others. The article long ago disappeared but recently and quite by accident Untermyer Gardens was brought to my attention once again. I visited their website and knew at once that this was someplace I needed to see. It embraces everything I love - a charmed history, incredible views, glorious landscape, the remnants of spectacular architecture - a bit of urban decay- that all tell a story (or many) of an era long ago departed. The grounds have been magnificently restored and implemented with well maintained trails that lead its visitors from one fabulous "discovery" to another. Along freshly mulched paths we wandered to learn that the Untermyer Gardens are as opulent and formal as they are rustic and simplistic. As with many other wonderful New York gems (The New York Botanical Gardens, The Cloisters, The Bronx Zoo) one forgets about the hustle and bustle all around. Who'd ever have imagined that this oasis was tucked away in Yonkers, New York - of all the places!

As a working mother with three kids at home during the summer I always struggle with having the time to manage my projects and pay attention to my children. When I'm busy they're they're slaves to their iDevices which kills me to no end. Teenagers no longer "play" and my youngest has no friends around. During the week I'm limited in what I can do to keep them occupied, but on the weekends I want to make up for this lost time. When they are with me I want to keep them out of the house and engaged for a better part of the day. This does take some thought and planning but in the end we always manage to find activities that are engaging, thought provoking and memorable and most importantly we always have a good time. The Utnermeyer Gardens had something that appealed to us all, and that isn't always an easy thing. Oh, and something else worth mentioning, admission to the park is completely free!

Walk through the remnants of the main building and at once you're in the shade of the most spectacular weeping willows. Look straight ahead and you'll see The Walled Garden, inspired by the great Indo-Persian gardens of antiquity. Divided into quadrants, the Walled Garden features four waterways bordered by crenellated walls, each anchored by an octagonal tower. The garden was intended to mimic a paradise on earth, Eden, and had features inspired by religious descriptions of paradise. For more read about the Walled Garden here.

Step into the Temple of the Sky, a magnificent roofless Greek rotunda with corinthian columns for your first magnificent glimpse of the Hudson River.

Below the Temple lies what was once a magnificent reflecting pool that the conservancy hopes to restore. The mosaic design of swirls and circles contained fish and other sea creatures including star fish, lobsters, and crabs inspired by ancient Roman designs. Although it was restored in the 1970s by Italian craftsmen, the mosaics are currently in disrepair.

Can't you just imagine the pool in all its glory with wonderful music filling the air, with magnificent parties at night?

Signs of urban decay amongst a storied past... This is New York after all!

Everywhere you turn plantings are meticulously manicured and maintained - gorgeous, resplendent with roses, and lilies and hydrangea and a myriad of other floral varieties.

Just beyond the Walled Gardens a the Majestic amphitheater stands gracefully overlooking the lower property and the Hudson River. It is said that the amphitheater's floor was based on a wall fresco found in the ancient city of Tiryns thought to date as far back as 1400-1200 BCE. The magnificent mosaic depicts spirals and papyrus lotus blossoms.

Two fierce Foo Lions stand on guard... you must pass them, however, if you want to see the Vista!

As one prepares to leave the Amphitheater, one catches yet another breathtaking glimpse of the Hudson... wander through the doorway ...

... and arrive to the Vista which was modeled after similar series of descending stairs at the Villa D'Este in Italy. At the Villa D'Este, the stairs descend gracefully toward Lake Como while at Untermyer, they cascade toward the Hudson River. Bosworth's original design flanked the stairs with Japanese cedars mimicking the dark cypress of the original. In 2015 the conservancy replanted over 100 Japanese cedars to restore the grandeur of original allee. The walk down is quite steep and remember this, what goes down must eventually come back up!

Come to the bottom of the allee to the base of the Vista. Stand at the magnificent Overlook with its resplendent views. Note the the two columns that frame the views - they are ancient Roman monolithic cipollino marble columns from the estate of the noted architect, Stanford White.

The remains of the Gatehouse sits at the bottom of the property. This once stood at the intersection of the estate's carriage trail and the Old Croton Aqueduct. A two story house, it is now in ruin. The lion and horse sculpture are attributed to Edward Clark Potter. Surrounding the Gatehouse were the Color Gardens, a series of six terraced gardens each planted in a single color, stood to the north of the Vista and were reached through gaps in the walls lining the steps. The terraces color schemes were, in descending order, pink, blue, red, white, yellow and, at the bottom, a delphinium garden. Today only the last two terraces exist as the upper color gardens are on land owned by the neighboring hospital, St. John's Riverside.

There are many well manicured and well marked trails for those seeking a connection with nature and a sense of adventure. Silence surrounds you as the tress provide a pleasant noise barrier from the streets below. Every once in a while a rumbling along the subway tracks can be heard reminding you that just outside of this Shangri La is a vibrant and bustling city.

The grounds are impeccably maintained.

The sun shone bright on us and we welcomed the shade when we could find it. Following the paths we came upon a clearing, and when we looked up we saw the Temple of Love and a small waterfall which cascaded down.

The Temple of Love is spectacular with views that look out over the Hudson River and the Palisades, but the temple itself is best viewed from below. It was the centerpiece of an extended rock garden that was flanked by terraced beds. The outcropping was an elaborate water feature, with water coursing all around it in various waterfalls and ponds. The Temple of Love was created by Carlo Davite, a Genoese stone mason who did work in the Paris Exposition, the St. Louis Exposition and at the Frick Museum.

Looking down from up above in the Temple of Love

Looking up and into the heavens from the Temple of Love.

Numerous rock outcroppings work together to create the many steps and covered areas that lead to the top of the temple.

Around every bend, it seemed, was another well defined trail. We wandered along with the hopes of being led back to the entrance with the hopes of finding out car!

My kid blended into the foliage!

The last path we chose brought us to the base of the Caretaker's house. I could see from afar that it was in a bit of a state of disarray - I could see the bold, bright colorful graffiti. I adore graffiti as odd as that might sound. I have a particular fondness for urban decay and the graffiti often goes hand in hand. We inched closer and I was hoping there was a way up to the house.

A lion peers out at what must have been the former entrance to the gatehouse. He looks terribly sad these days. His commanding presence softened over the years.

My 11 year old pauses, as though he's actually contemplating the trespassing. He stays put. But I want to. I want to explore what's left of this house. I want to see the brightly colored words sprayed on to the brick walls. I look down and notice there's no longer a floor, instead a green carpet of grass below, above us only sky.

I am mesmerized, in awe. And so it is not my son who trespasses; it is I. I am curious. My camera wants to capture it all. I look around and survey the remains and nothing looks dangerous. I motion for the kids to follow me. It all looks safe, save for a few bits and pieces of broken glass. It looks like some rebellious teenagers were here last.

I try to imagine life as it was within these four walls but I cannot. Instead I am very much in the moment. I see this as a great location for a photo shoot - Maybe Vogue, with models dressed to the nines in Gucci or Valentino. One model holds a flute, another holds a Magnum, behind them a man in a tux stands with his arms crossed, a cigar in his left hand.

I look out at the trees beyond in the open spaces where the windows once were and think to myself that I must return in the fall as the vibrant foliage will reign supreme and accentuate the already bright interior.

One last walk around and then we spy another path that looks like it will lead us out. The climb uphill looks ominous. We're hot and thirst, but we must persevere if we are to get our bottles of chilled water. It was a long, uphill climb - and so worth every moment of our adventure.

The Untermeyer Gardens Conservancy
945 North Broadway
Yonkers, NY 10701
(914) 613-4502
Visit their website for tours, directions and more information.

Go Ape :: Unplug and connect to nature through aerial obstacles and zip line adventure!

June 29, 2016 Jessica Gordon Ryan

The folks at Go Ape reached out to me to see if I might be interested in experiencing and reviewing their newest course in New Britain. I, of course, jumped at the chance!

Go Ape is an amazing outdoor Treetop Adventure Course providing participants with about 3 hours of outdoor fun and exercise. The result is spectacular. We were able to explore the park from an otherwise unobtainable vantage point as we navigated our way through the treetops using zip lines, obstacles and tarzan swings.

What resulted was perhaps one of the most amazing experiences I've had in a very long time.

Go Ape Review. The Entertaining House. All images shot with iPhone 6. Me in my harness preparing for our Go Ape Adventure and training Session. — Go Ape Review. The Entertaining House. All images shot with iPhone 6. Me in my harness preparing for our Go Ape Adventure and training Session.

I'd like to think I'm pretty adventurous. I'd like to think I'm physically fit and strong. I'd like to think I'm up for challenges and adventures. I definitely like to step outside my comfort zone as I believe that's where the best things happen. And so here I was about to step as far out of my comfort zone as I've ever gone, though I didn't know it at the time!

We arrived to find a temporary trailer set up with the Go Ape Offices at Stanley Park in New Britain. There I was given a load of paperwork to read and disclosures to sign. I had to be made aware that our activities were dangerous and even potentially fatal! I signed my life away. I signed my children's life away. How much of a risk taker am I? I was beginning to think I should turn around. But my youngest was super excited. We arrived late because despite my car's navigation I still managed to miss an exit. We had to wait for the next group.

You participate in a group so that your guide can go over a comprehensive training once, for everyone. Paying attention is critical.

Go Ape Review. The Entertaining House. All images shot with iPhone 6Above, Javier, our guide discusses the importance of safety and gives us a demo.

When our group was all present we were harnessed up then participated in a thorough 30 minute safety briefing and training. As we went through our training I worried that I might forget a crucial step, but as you gain experience and go through the motions it becomes second nature. And the higher you go, the more in-tune to your safety you are. I was worried about having to be responsible for the harnesses for my 15 and 10 year olds. I was less concerned with my safety than theirs - every time we climbed a new tree, crossed a new rope course, crawled, jumped or zipped we had to double-check that every clasp was properly shut. Again, this soon became second nature.

Go Ape Review. The Entertaining House. All images shot with iPhone 6. Javier chooses Christopher to help.

After we learned and practiced the proper way to harness ourselves, we had a few trial runs on low level platforms - where we got to try out tightrope walking, zip-lining, climbing and free falling into the spider web-like net. Level 1 didn't seem so bad. It was in fact, a breeze!

Go Ape Review. The Entertaining House. All images shot with iPhone 6. Christopher on the Level 1 zip line.

After our practice run my little one pulled me over. He wasn't feeling so well. His stomach hurt - his harness was awfully tight. He looked positively ghostly. We sat him down and gave him some water and took off his harness. He was still clammy after a few minutes of rest and hydration. As soon as one of the guides caught wind that Alexander wasn't feeling well he rushed over with some Gatorade, thinking that it might do the trick. After he inhaled the bottle, rested a few more minutes his color came back and he was rearing to go!

Go Ape Review. The Entertaining House. All images shot with iPhone 6. Alexander, 10, has just landed his Tarzan free-fall jump and climbs over to the tree as Christopher prepares his next task.

Above - As Alexander sailed into the net, Christopher was securing his harness to get ready for his next task. Three people are allowed on a platform and with children under 16 a parent must be on the platform with them before one can take off. (I shot this just prior to my jump, which I did with eyes closed!) Once I got to the platform Christopher was ready and able to take off.

Go Ape Review. The Entertaining House. All images shot with iPhone 6

Each obstacle becomes slightly more challenging! I found safety on the net as I took this picture of the boys eagerly awaiting my arrival so they could zip across!

There are 5 courses in the park each with a set of obstacles that become more and more challenging. At the base of each course is a bench to rest and catch your breath if you need it and water so that you needn't worry about carrying your own bottles. I work out very regularly and I was surprised to find myself trying to catch my breath after a few of the obstacles, many of which are as mentally challenging as they are physically. You want to say I can't do this! You want to turn back, but you can't! And therefore there's no choice but to push yourself to your limits. How often do we really do this anyhow? Not often enough if at all.

With each course, the trees get higher and higher. I was amazed at my ability to hyper-focus as I concentrated on what was straight ahead of me and not below. Many of the obstacles are extremely unstable I learned to rely on my footing and how things felt underfoot so that I didn't have to worry about looking down and losing focus. Losing focus would have meant a fall. But I was harnessed. Yet, despite that fact there was something in me that simply couldn't allow myself to mess up. I was determined to make it across each task at hand. Some chose not to, and simply zip-lined across - I saw that as a cop-out and I wasn't here to cop out!

The courses with the ropes were hardest for me. Unwavering focus and upper body strength was required. Just ahead, if you look, is the twisted ladder... one of the most nerve-wracking of all. The trick, I learned, was to walk the cable. However, almost at the end my left foot slipped out from underneath and I held on for dear life! I wonder if I had forgotten that my harness was even on?

There are no guides who travel with you and you are really on your own. This is in part, I am sure, due to the way the course is set up and the fact that only 3 people are allowed on a platform at a time. No worries though, once you get to the harder courses, there are guides below to offer encouragement and support.

Another safety net, another photo op! I was terribly worried about dropping my phone! As you can see, more dangling moving wooden steps just beyond the rope tunnel... we were quickly approaching our 2nd zip line though! The zip line is an awesome reward for your hard work!

The Folks at GoApe want participants to know that by participating in a Go Ape adventure they are also contributing to the health, finance, and well being of the parks. The company provides a portion of our proceeds and stewardship services back to the parks we call home. I also want to point out that no trees are harmed from any of the cables attached to the trees. If you look closely at my photos, you'll see that each tree is protected by special braces that grip the trunks. Each platform rests on these braces. The braces are also designed to expand as the trees grow. Each tree is manually inspected by independent arborist to ensure optimal health. So go ahead, hug a tree! (and as you get closer to the end, and as the platforms get smaller and smaller, you'll find yourself doing exactly that!

This wonderful concept began in the UK before it came here. Their motto is "Live Life Adventurously" and I don't think enough of us do this, at least not often enough. Go Ape offers us to challenge ourselves in a way we don't typically do. It requires strength and strategy in way we don't often combine the two. Because once you start a course and are in the trees, there's no way back down and you can't back out, therefore you cannot fail. If you think about it, it's all set up to help you succeed.

In the end you come away with an incredible sense of accomplishment - one that many of us as adults don't experience near enough. You have no choice but to push yourself, and despite all the self doubt, in the end you did it and that is one of the most rewarding experiences you could ever give yourself.

Before I got to the final zip line and made my way to the top of the very last tree 65 feet up in the air, I told myself that I was going to finish the task but I wouldn't do it again. Ever. As I stood on that tiny, narrow platform 65 feet up securing and sending off my children, all I could think of was to get down to safety. And then it was my time to fly the nest. I sat down and let my harness do its thing. I didn't close my eyes. I didn't hold on for dear life. For roughly 1/5 of a mile, over a large pond, I held out my arms and sailed into the wind - I felt like a bird flying in the breeze and it was the most sensational thing I have ever experienced.

A day later I've noticed a few new bumps and bruises and my stomach muscles are a bit sore. As I think about the adventure I shared with my children I'm reminded of a favorite childhood story, The Little Engine that Could and how, in the end, she said to herself "I knew I could, I knew I could!" Would I go back and do it again tomorrow? In a New York Minute I would! And so would my boys.

Go Ape also proved to be an amazing bonding experience for me and my boys. I highly recommend this as a family activity as you work together to offer guidance, support and cheer each other on. It's an activity everyone can participate in together and everyone comes out with the same fulfilling experience. The course, including the training, takes about 3 hours to complete. It's a wonderful day spent reconnecting with nature - tuning out the digital world and tuning into the natural world.

Pointers, notes and comments:

Eat beforehand. You'll need your strength
Arrive a few minutes early to fill out disclaimers and paperwork
Use the restrooms before you get harnessed!
Wear sneakers
Wear comfortable slightly loose fitting pants or shorts
If you plan on bringing a phone or camera cargo shorts or pants are recommended
Leave sunglasses behind. You won't need them in the trees!
At the base of each station rest if you need to but do drink the water to stay hydrated.
Gloves are available for purchase but aren't necessary. My hands were sore not from the ropes but for holding on for dear life!
Take your time
Enjoy the beauty all around you
The course is open rain or shine with the exception of lightning and heavy winds
Guides are extremely informative and kind
Guides are stationed below some of the courses but you are on your own for the obstacles
When in doubt close your eyes and look straight ahead!
Believe in yourself!

Go Ape is located in New Britain, CT, and 14 other states. To find one near you, or suggest they build one near you, visit their

My experience was complimentary but that in no way altered or affected my experience. The cost is not inexpensive, but for a physically challenging and engaging 3 hour activity and and experience you won't forget, the value is indeed priceless.

Discovering Connecticut :: Open House Day

June 7, 2016 Jessica Gordon Ryan

Celebrate Connecticut Open House Day on Saturday, June 11
Free/Discounted Admission and Special Activities for Residents at 170+ Attractions

Connecticut residents and families don¹t have to travel too far or spend too much to experience all the state has to offer this summer. More than 170 local attractions from historical sites and museums to renowned theaters and unique foodie stops will offer free or discounted admission, special activities, giveaways and hands-on activities for the kids on Connecticut Open House Day, Saturday, June 11.

Residents can browse the complete list of Open House Day participants, and view attractions by town, at the all-new www.CTvisit.com.

The popular statewide event, now in its 12th year, invites residents to discover and rediscover Connecticut¹s fascinating world of art, history and visitor experiences. And with more than 170 local attractions in towns and cities across the state participating, residents can plan a day to delight everyone in their group.

Just a sampling of the participating attractions include:
· Dinosaur State Park in Rocky Hill: free admission from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
· New England Air Museum in Windsor Locks: buy one admission and get one free (higher price prevails) from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
· Wesleyan Potters in Middletown: free tours and demonstrations, including pottery wheel throwing and fun activities for children, from noon to 4 p.m.
· Nathan Hale Homestead in Coventry: free admission from noon to 4 p.m.
· Fascia¹s Chocolates in Waterbury: free special chocolate experience and tours from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tours include behind-the-scenes look at the factory and its history
· Mystic Aquarium in Mystic: $6 off general admission when you mention Connecticut Open House Day at the gate
· Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum in Ridgefield: free admission from noon to 5 p.m.
· Oaxaca Kitchen in New Haven: 15 percent off entire check for lunch or dinner from noon to 10 p.m.
· SportsCenter of Connecticut in Shelton: one free activity per person from 9:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.
· Stamford Museum & Nature Center in Stamford: free admission for the first 100 visitors from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Specials and discounts, as well as hours of operation, vary by attraction.

³The Connecticut Office of Tourism is thrilled to invite residents to enjoy the state¹s dynamic blend of attractions and experiences for another Open House Day,² said Randy Fiveash, director of the Connecticut Office of Tourism. ³So many businesses are eager to throw their doors open and participate. It is yet another example of the collaboration that fuels the state¹s $14 billion tourism industry.²

For more information about Connecticut Open House Day, visit www.CTvisit.com. Also RSVP to the Facebook event and follow @CTvisit on Twitter, #CTOpenHouse.

Stay tuned as there is More to follow!

Celebrate Connecticut Open House Day on Saturday, June 11. More than 170 local attractions from historical sites and museums to renowned theaters and unique foodie stops will offer free or discounted admission, special activities, giveaways and more. For a complete list of participating attractions, visit http://www.ctvisit.com/connecticut-open-house-day-june-11-2016. Follow along by using #CTOpenHouse.

80 Things You Must Try This Summer!

May 31, 2016 Jessica Gordon Ryan

I've tried to create a list filled with ideas for both adults, teens and younger children. Take this list, print it out and put it on your desk or tape it to your refrigerator. We all have an idea of things we want to do and see over the summer, then as the weeks pass on we lose ambition, drive and creativity. Much of our days are filled with work and camps for the children. Many have time set aside for travel and family vacations. But the days are longer and there's so much that can be done on a long weekend or after work. The summer season has officially arrived - Let's make the most of it and fill our days with laughter and joy-filled activities. For those of us with children, especially older children, let's not focus on academics but on living... I'm a firm believer that the best way of learning is to get out of the classroom and get out into the world... or out into the neighborhood!

80 Things for kids and grownups to do this summer. Image via Tumblr.

Take a road trip to somewhere new
Visit a vineyard
Try a new outdoor sport (such as paddle boarding, kayaking, golf or horseback riding)
Go to the beach (lake, park, rooftop) and watch the sunrise. DONE!
Go to the beach (lake, park, rooftop) and sip champagne as the sun sets. DONE!
Collect shells
Collect sea glass
Visit a new ice cream shop every week
Ride a Merry Go Round
Start a quest for the best Lobster Roll
Go berry picking and make home made jam
Prepare a meal using only ingredients from the farm or farmer's market
Make a pitcher of sun tea
Start a vegetable/herb/fruit garden
Start a container garden (better for children and those of us with black thumbs!) DONE
Make s'mores with various flavors (strawberries, raspberries, peanut butter cups)
Make ice cream using rock salt and a plastic bag, or this way. (Great activity for kids)
Go for a hike or a long walk someplace new
Charter a boat
Ride a ferry
Host a pool party
Host an outdoor movie party
Go to a drive-in
Visit a museum DONE
Visit a zoo
Visit a botanical garden DONE
Make a Summer 2016 "Mix Tape" from your iTunes
Lose yourself in a good summer book
Organize a potluck picnic
Swim in the rain (but not in the lightning!)
Go skinny dipping!
Kiss in the rain
Go kayaking
Go paddle boarding
Camp out on the beach (by the lake) and look for shooting stars
Go to an outdoor concert
Record your day with pictures
Hang some bird feeders and count all the varieties that stop by
Rent a convertible
Play tourist in your hometown
Buy several bunches of flowers and make a pretty display
Sleep on the porch
Watch a rainstorm
Make Lemonade from scratch
Make Limoncello
On a particularly hot or rainy day lose yourself in Netflix
Visit one new outdoor restaurant a week
If you have little ones: Create a scavenger hunt with pictures in your neighborhood
If you have teens: Create a scavenger hunt in town - have the kids text their finds
Take a surfing lesson
Go boogie boarding
Go for a long bike ride somewhere new
Try Geocaching with the family
Go crabbing/clamming
Make sand candles
Start a journal and fill it with ideas, thoughts, dreams and aspirations
Start an illustrated/paint/photography journal
Go to an outdoor flea market/antiques fair
Host a Christmas Party on a hot day in July!
Go to a matinee
Color and hide "Easter" eggs
Unplug for a day
Host a clam bake
Take a sailing lesson
Make a large batch of gazpacho - try yellow and green varieties too
"Create" a new smoothie flavor
Go ziplining DONE
Go to a minor league baseball game
Eat a hotdog
Have a Create your own Burger contest
Visit a local brewery
Visit a local distillery
Go for a "midnight" swim
Spend a hot rainy day in bed
Plan a lunch date with the girls DONE
Go for an long walk or run DONE
Make blueberry bread with freshly picked blueberries
Go to a local fair
Go to a carnival and jump on some rides!
Have an indoor picnic (No mosquitos! No ants!)