*Gear Review* Chariot CTS

I can honestly say that our Chariot was some of the very best money we invested in our children as far as being able to get outside and be active with them.  We recommend them to everyone with children.

We bought our Chariot (thanks to help from some awesome baby shower money) back in 2009.  I will say right up front that they are certainly not cheap.  Currently, the Cougar 2 base chassis runs for $685 at REI.  And then you have to purchase at least one attachment to make it work.  We get the most use out of the Bike Trailer Kit ($75) , the XC Ski Kit ($275) , and the Jogging Kit ($100) , though there certainly are other attachments out there (like strolling wheels and a hiking kit)

Before you faint from sticker shock, please note that this could easily be the only stroller you need.  It works as a jogger (BOB strollers run from $400-$600 by themselves), bike trailer AND a solution for skiing.

This Moment....

*No words necessary, just a precious moment from our life*

*Guest Post* Adventure Baby!

*Giveaway closed! Congratulations, Caroline M. - check your inbox!*

I am thrilled to introduce you to Stephanie on the blog today.  Stephanie is the owner of one of my very favorite shops in Jackson, Backcountry Baby. Backcountry Baby was created to help parents simplify the adventure of parenting. Specializing in travel gear, cloth diapers and baby wearing gear. They've got all the essentials covered (plus some fun goodies!) Stop by at 245 W. Pearl St in Jackson or online at www.backcountry-baby.com (their online shop just went live).  


She has some super valuable tips for traveling with babies and kids, especially during the holidays (and make sure you read all the way to the end of the post for a chance to win something on her "must have" list!)

Moonlit Ski Adventures + Challenge

We love getting outside as a family and we do it every day (I feel like a broken record, but in case you haven't heard it before, we have a "15 minute" rule.  Even in the worst conditions, we are outside with our kids 15 minutes a day.)

I think that it is really easy to get stuck in the box of what you DO outside.  Go to the park, go on a run (and keep kids occupied in a stroller,) go hiking, go skiing, go on a nature walk.  Whatever your family does best is what you do most.  All of these things are wonderful and are certainly nothing to discredit.  However, sometimes we just need to try something new and challenge our minds, bodies and spirits (and those of our children) to keep our experiences exciting and fresh.

One thing that we love to do occasionally (and so wish we could do more) are moon-lit ski adventures.  Husband and I actually took a moonlit ski on our second date (is that trust, or what?!?!) Now we bundle the kids up in the Chariot, bring our headlamps as back up, and venture out on the trail (or not...)  It is amazing how a trail or scenery that is so familiar in the day time can be so different at night.

And yes, sometimes that different can be a little scary.  You of course have to take precautions.  We go slower and enjoy our surroundings, we pack extra extra gear, water, and food, and we make sure to make noise so we don't startle any 4-legged furry animal out on his own moonlit trek.  We are usually on familiar trails (especially at night.)

Posing where we had taken a picture two years prior on our second date!

This winter with two kids (and one old enough to appreciate the adventure) we are excited to explore outside in different ways.  We believe in appreciating nature in ALL its forms (darkness included) and develop a respect (including the safety aspect) for that in our kids.  Now all we need is some SNOW! :)

This week over at Active Kids Club, they have teamed up with Polarn O. Pyret, to encourage families to get outside EVERY day this week with the "Every Day is Play Day Week."


Here's the challenge:
As a parent and educator. Like both Polarn O. Pyret and ActiveKidsClub.com Facebook pages and during the week of Novemeber 14th - 19th share your fun ideas with us on how you embrace the elements. Get deals, win prizes and participate in chats on how we can best embrace the elements with some fun outdoor play ideas.


If you are an educator let us know how you get your kids outside at your school for recess or how you incorporate outdoor learning in your curriculum.


Don't miss this incredible opportunity.  Yes, it is a challenge and may not be easy, but your kids will thank you for it! (and YOU will be a better person because of it!)

A Biking TRIO!

Tonight was momentous - we biked together as a family....all THREE of us (P is just a BIT too young at 4 months...) J has a balance bike and something clicked tonight as he rode around and we rode with him.  I have taken him out to ride plenty of times, but I usually just walk pushing the stroller while he rides.  We were proud parents to see him cruise on that bike, and he was thrilled!  He even biked about half of the 1.5 mile trip home.  So fun!!!

The best part is that he wants to ride like Daddy and Mommy and we love that he can be active and keep up with us (at a 2-year-old level anyway!!)

This is how we get down to the park....love that Chariot!

Proud Kid! Helmet and all.... :)

Just like Mama (see helmet placement)

At the park waiting for Daddy to meet us to bike home together (P is happy - even if he doesn't look it! - in the Action Baby Carrier!)

Chariot Sweetness

I cannot sing the praises of our Chariot enough.  It is the piece of equipment that lets us continue to get outside - running, walking, biking and skiing.  It is a full load with two kids in it (plus snacks, drinks, dog leash, quilts, phone, random books, etc. etc.)  The boys are always happy in it and safe and comfortable.  

And, uh, I seriously think I should get bonus points for my run just pushing this! :)