Author Archive | Jennie Lyon

Sunday, we decided to take an impromptu hike, so we jumped in the car and headed for Rocky Mountain National Park. It was a warm and sunny day and we were looking forward to a hike and picnic in the mountains. The higher we drove, the more snow that we encountered and since Eben and I had worn our Keen’s, we didn’t want to trudge through a ton of snow.

We decided to hike to Copeland Falls because it is a simple hike and with it being so warm, we thought the Keen’s wouldn’t be a big factor. I became a little concerned, the higher we hiked, the deeper the snow was. After 1.5 hours of hiking, we were surrounded by 2 feet of snow. The sun and the fact that a lot of the trail was snow packed was the only thing that saved our toes.{They were still a little wet and chilly.} The scenery was beautiful, full of ice sculptures from the run off.

I think Eben’s favorite parts of the hike were the checker board that he found carved on a tree stump, climbing all of the boulders and having a snow ball fight with Mr. Sweet Greens.

Parts of the river were still frozen and the mix of water and ice was amazing. This is a perfect hike for anyone with little ones, as there is a lot to see and tons of boulders to climb on. The best part was the cliff that we sat on overlooking the river while we ate our lunch. Fantastic. You can see more of our hiking pictures on the Sweet Greens Eco Flickr page.

How about you lovely readers, where are your fave places to hike?
Does your family enjoy hiking together?

We spend a lot of time at our local library, you could say that we love, love, love our library. At least a couple of times a week, you will find Mr. Sweet Greens, Eben and myself lounging in the window seats, reading a good book. This is truly one of Eben’s favorite after school activities. Our library is super fantastic, not only does it have tons of cozy seats and a fireplace, it was also built certified LEED Platinum by the Green Building Council. Some of the environmentally friendly elements include Forest Stewardship Council Certified wood, low emitting paints, carpets and adhesives and efficient lighting and mechanical fixtures. Oh yeah and the toilets are low flow with cute signs that read, “Pull Up for #1, Press Down for #2.”

Do you love to go to the library?
Is your library a green library?
Does your library have lovely little nooks and crannies to cozy up in?

Early last Spring a mother and father Robin built this beautiful nest in a nook on our front porch. Simple stated, I was elated. I have never had a bird build a nest, right outside my office window. Every day I eagerly watched the birds come and go as they brought back grass, sticks, leaves and even some string to build their nest. Shortly after, we had 3 little blue robins eggs in the nest. We were lucky enough to be able to see the little naked peepers once they were born.

Well, guess what? This season, a pair of sparrows has taken up residence in our nest and there are 2 tiny yellow eggs in it. I can’t wait to see these naked little babies too. Isn’t that fantastic?

How about you lovely readers, have you been lucky enough to have birds nest on or near your home?
I would love to see the pictures, you can upload them to The Sweet Greens Eco Flickr Group.