Our First Spring In Ohio

Wow, I can't believe that spring time is already here! Although this past winter was relatively mild by local standards, we certainly weren't used to single digit temperatures and snow being a common occurrence! It will definitely take some getting used to, but it's a very welcomed change.

My kids will grow up seeing and experiencing all 4 seasons, and I cannot think of a better town to live in for just that! In the winter, there are great sledding hills and an outdoor ice-rink, but spring and summer is when all of the fun happens in my quaint little town of 50,000 people. You see, I live in one of those gems of a city where family values still run strong, and there are always plenty of things to do, with or without the kids in tow! It's so refreshing to finally be out of the Northern VA area and back home in Ohio, where my kids can make some wonderful memories.

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This is our first official spring living here in Ohio, and I am so looking forward to everything my area has to offer. I think my town has a lot of unique charm, and it will be so much fun exploring and falling in love with my hometown all over again after nearly 20 years of being away.

We will be getting the perfect opportunity to get out and get active in just a couple of weeks. My awesome father-in-law and his family are coming up for a few days to visit, and here are a few of the places we'd love to show them. The best part? ALL of these things are just blocks from my house. How cool is that?!

This large totem is a landmark where I live. I have always wondered why it was placed there and the story behind it. Maybe I will stop by and see if there is a plaque with the history behind this Indian warrior. It's definitely one of the more unique things in my town.

We have a charming downtown area right on the riverfront. It's walking only, and is home to several antique shops, art galleries, a theater, and even some eclectic bars and restaurants. My husband and I want to ride our kick scooters here and explore the shops and the boardwalk. It's a great way to be active, and would make a perfect day time date!

This gorgeous fountain is nestled in the heart of downtown, right near the riverfront. Every time we pass by, the kids squeal with delight. Maybe we will pack a nice picnic and have lunch here when Bruce, Diane, and Henry come to visit.

There is a second fountain downtown that looks absolutely stunning at night. I can just imagine taking a stroll here with my husband after a romantic dinner at one of the local eateries. Looks positively magical, doesn't it?

While I don't think anything is going on in  March, I also am super excited about all of the festivals that take place downtown. There is an Italian Festival, Greek Festival, and even Oktoberfest! Much of the community gathers here with their families, and it's always a great time.

Also, in the warmer months there is live music on the riverfront every single weekend. There is a huge ampitheater and loads of vendors selling yummy foods. It's kind of neat because we can sit out on our deck and hear the bands play. (Yes, we live that close to downtown!)  This year, we plan to actually go enjoy the show with the crowds. My dad's band might even play, which would be really cool!

Another wonderful thing my town has to offer are natural wonders like caves, caverns, and even plenty of waterfalls. This cave is actually quite the local legend. Well over 100 years ago, Indians kidnapped a young white girl and kept her in this cave for years. True story! It's well documented and even has a historical marker. You can even see Native American carvings and drawings on the cliff and cave walls!

Here is just one of the spectacular waterfalls in my town. There are quite a few, and they are breathtaking! I can't wait for my kids to see them for the first time!

So as you can see, I am so excited for spring to arrive so we can get out and explore our lovely little town and do things as a family. Nowhere else has ever really felt like home to me, and I am so happy to be back! My kids will grow up in this awesome community, and I just couldn't be more thrilled about that!

Does your town have any neat landmarks or activities? I'd love to hear what your plans for the spring are!