We’ve already discussed the 4th of July activities at KCRiverFest, and now it’s time for me to share some other options for how to spend the holiday just in case you have decided to forego those particular festivities this year.  So what else is there to do in our area for the 4th? Here are some other things going on in the Kansas City metro area: Olathe... [Read more...]

What is one of the most important factors you consider before moving to a new area? Does the school system make the list? Of course, parents want to make sure their kids are getting taken care of by the educational system, and I can say with confidence that our area has some of the best schools out there.  That’s why 3 Shawnee Mission high schools have... [Read more...]

It seems like every year I forget which fruits are in season.  Well, some of the less obvious ones, anyway.  When I was at the store the other day I noticed how perfect the fruit looked.  This is THE season for great produce, from strawberries and blueberries to watermelon and, my personal favorite, rainier cherries. Fortunately, we’ve got a farmers’... [Read more...]

Shawnee’s own Cinnamon Schultz, who enjoyed some screen time in the film “Winter’s Bone,” is back to the stage for a string of performances, mostly of the Shakespearean variety.  Schultz is returning to The Heart of America Shakespeare Festival at Kansas City’s Southmoreland Park as a witch in the 17th-century tragedy, “Macbeth.” The curtain... [Read more...]

Get ready to celebrate the 4th of July with Kansas City’s premier Independence Day festival on the Missouri River – KCRiverFest.  On Saturday, July 2nd, and Sunday, July 3rd, you can enjoy days jam packed with live music, carnival rides and games, local vendors and…fireworks, of course! The festivities will run from 1 pm to 11 pm.  They are hosted... [Read more...]

As Olivia Newton-John said way back in the day, “Let’s Get Physical!” Okay, bad reference, but appropriate for this post, I promise.  If you’re up for a bit of a challenge, consider signing up for the Shawnee Mountain Mud Run, a 5K following the Shawnee Mountain trails and grounds.  The race will take place on Saturday, August 20th, and will include... [Read more...]

Some kids would love to sit around all day, watching TV, but there are plenty of healthier ways to keep your kids occupied that don't involve mindless technology. Your local Shawnee Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Store offers affordable classes and day camps for your aspiring little artist. Kids can dabble in crafts like tie-dye, knitting,cake decorating and... [Read more...]

The 16thSampler Garden Tour is being held this Saturday, June 11th, and we’re going to get to see six beautiful Shawnee gardens! The tour will run from 9 am to 5 pm, rain or shine. You can buy your tickets, which are $8 in advance and $10 the day of the tour, at: Hartman and Sons Sentry Hardware on Johnson Drive Family Tree Nursery and Garden Centers... [Read more...]

Great news for fishermen (and women!)! This Saturday and Sunday, the state wildlife department is waiving its fishing license requirement, so that anglers who don’t have a license yet can cast their lines in local lakes and ponds for free. We’ve got a lot of fishing options right here in our area, so it’s not necessary to go far.  Of course, one... [Read more...]