Hoosier Outdoor Experience

A couple of weekends ago there was a Hoosier Outdoor Experience at a Ft. Harrison State Park, which is only about 10 min. from our house.  It was advertised as a way to experience some new outdoor activities for free. We had never been to the event or to the park, so we decided to take advantage of the gorgeous weather and free admission and go.  As we arrived we were immediately overwhelmed by the size of the event.  There were a TON of people there, and it was spread out into three separate areas of the park connected by a tram-like shuttle.  What we thought might be a quick, fun morning turned into a long, whiny adventure.  However, we were able to do a few things without waiting in long lines.

 



The kids enjoyed playing in this huge tent and thought we should buy it.  Seeing as I'm not much of a camper, we passed on that.

Ryan and the kids practiced tying different kinds of knots.  I was waiting in a line while they did this, so I'm not sure how they did.

All three children drove remote control boats, but Caroline was not quite as interested in it as the boys were.  Personally, I don't exactly see the appeal of remote control boats, but I suppose there is something for everyone.

 

We caught the very end of the animal show so the kids were able to touch some animals if they wanted. My cautious first-born was not too sure and refused to pet the snake and skunk. However, the two younger ones were fascinated and went right over.  I wasn't sure if Grant, who has a love/hate relationship with snakes, would actually want to touch it, but maybe it was good for him.  He didn't have nightmares afterwards so that was good!

All in all, I suppose it was fun.  I think if we were to go again, we'd make sure we got there right when it opened and took money/food for all of us.  I think it would be fun to try fly fishing or rifle shooting, but let's be honest.  Next year I'll have an 8-mo.-old baby, so the likelihood of me being able to try anything I want to do is pretty slim!