Maple Syrup Day

Today was a beautiful, warm day here in Central Ohio. It was the perfect day for our planned visit to Dawes Arboretum to learn about the process of making maple syrup. We have recently read about maple syrup making in Little House in the Big Woods and the boys were very excited to witness it first hand. The sap was really running on this sunny 50+ degree day.

Among the many things we learned are the facts that:

(1) It takes 40 gallons of sap to make one gallon of maple syrup.

(2) The syrup we usually buy contains ZERO percent of real maple syrup.

(3) It takes a lot of work to make maple syrup. That's why real maple syrup costs so much. BUT, the taste is amazing... so it looks like we'll have to find room in our grocery budget for the real thing from now on!

(4) Modern technology has helped make the syrup-making process easier than it was for the pioneers.

 In addition to learning about maple syrup, we had a wonderful time exploring the beautiful arboretum. It felt so good to be outside and feel the sunshine. The boys were so happy and free... running and playing outside! Here are some pictures from our fun family field trip:

 

  

Dawes has an amazing nature center for kids! In this picture the boys are looking at a beehive.



Bird-watching

 

Deer tracks!
The rain boots were DEFINITELY a good idea on this muddy day!

We actually got to sit and relax here for a long time while the boys played hide and seek among the trees.

We brought home a half pint of real maple syrup, made in Ohio!



Even though we had a different plan for dinner, the boys convinced us to make pancakes so we could enjoy the syrup. Jon is the BEST breakfast maker. He loves the new griddle my mom got him for Christmas!

                                  

Hooray for a great family day!