Computer History Museum

In the span of two generations computer technology has jumped from huge computers that filled an entire room and needed a small army of technicians to maintain and run them to the incredibly powerful and tiny mobile computers we carry in our pockets (which also can make phone calls). It is easy to take this rapid evolution for granted as we become more comfortable with computers in every aspect of our lives but a trip to the Computer History Museum in Mountain Park, CA (just South of San Francisco in "Silicon Valley") will make any visitor stop in awe of how things have changed. 

We visited the Computer History Museum in July as part of a trip to San Francisco - it was our first stop after driving all morning. The museum contains a visual history of the evolution of computers from the Babbage Differential Engine (the first mechanical computer consisting of 8,000 parts, weighing five tons, and measures 11 feet long) to the ENIAC (a computer the size of a room used by the US War Department after WWII), to mainframe computers using punch-cards, to the first Apple computer and Atari game consoles, to a Google self-driving car. The museum displays only a fraction of their catalog but the items on display are incredible and visually illustrate how technology and computers have changed over a span of 60 years. The museum includes several hands-on exhibits to help demystify the "magic" of computer technology and also highlights some of the more prominent women and men who helped to create the modern digital world we live in. 

Babbage Difference Engine #2 

JOHNNIAC Computer

IBM Mainframe demonstration lab

There are many special exhibits such as the history of video games (including some classic games you can play), the history of the Internet, and an exhibit on the evolution of robotics. The museum also has unique historical items such as a German Enigma Machine (of WWII fame), a guidance computer from an Apollo mission command module, and a .  The museum has a lot of information for Uber-Geeks as well as people just discovering technology.

German Enigma Machine

The museum is fairly large with a lot of exhibits to take in and can take a couple of hours to really see everything. They also offer a lot of classes for people of all ages and skills throughout the year. Of course, the gift shop is a must-visit as well.  ;-)

 - http://www.computerhistory.org

Chandler Police - Youth Academy

Earlier this month I sent my daughter to the Youth Academy at the Chandler Police Department - she enjoyed it so much! AND....She has already asked to again next year (even though she threatened to have me arrested for forging her signature on the sign-up form).  The Academy was five days, from 9am-4pm where they learned about all aspects of law enforcement. The classes were led by some of the nicest individuals who presented the kids with a side of law enforcement that most people do not see. T-shirt, lunch and snacks all included in the fee. By the way the fee is FREE!

I am still so jealous that I could not do this too (well... actually I signed up for the Citizens Academy - can't wait!). Criminal law, self defense, forensics, the artillery range and K9 training are just a few of the topics they learned by doing hands on activities.

I must thank the Chandler PD for giving their time and talents to the kids and help them see that there is a difference between how law enforcement is portrayed in the media and how they are in real life. They host this four times a year. The local restaurants donate the lunches and a local print shop donates the t-shirts.

Special Thank you to Katie for helping to write this review.
http://chandlerpd.com/youth-academy/

Phoenix COMICON 2015

This was my family's first time at Phoenix COMICON and it was so much more than I thought it would be.  Three floors of merchandise, LEGO, cosplayers, anime, and photo ops. There were so many amazing and creative costumes that it was fun to just sit and watch characters walk by. It was crowded to be sure, but everyone was polite and made sure that all children were given first chance to get to their destination. There were lots of special events to attend and you would really need to attend several days to soak it all in. A local gaming group hosted open gaming tables and the winners were given cool prizes. Overall it was a very family-friendly event and we look forward to going back again.

Special thank you to Katie Prator for their contributions to this edition.

National Weather Service -- Tempe

My daughter and I took a tour of the National Weather Service. We learned about all of the technologies and people needed to collect and analyze atmospheric data that is then used to create accurate weather forecasts. They also spring into action during severe weather to help keep people safe and provide information to local first responders. It was about an hour long and we asked thousands of questions. This is not a tour filled with bells and whistles, there is no WOW picture. But if you have an interest in science, a desire to travel or are curious how to be a weatherperson on television or in print, tornado chaser etc... then this is for you.

http://www.wrh.noaa.gov/psr/

Crafting at the Boyce Thompson Arboretum

Recently I have discovered the many wonders of the Boyce Thompson Arboretum.  Not only is it a beautiful place to explore and learn about various plants and trees, they also host different classes throughout the year. Recently I learned the art of turning wine bottles into wind chimes and even took my daughter to a Woodworking class. Let's not forget that this is a beautiful place to hike and take hundreds of pictures. There are several trails to hike and places to picnic so that you can return several times throughout the year and keep enjoying something new.

It is a quick and easy drive from Phoenix and is open practically year round.  The list of classes available for adults and youth visitors is long and I hope to take several more!

https://arboretum.ag.arizona.edu

Horseback Riding at Fort McDowell Adventures

Have you ever just wanted to mount  a horse and ride? Cross the Verde River, see some wildlife against the backdrop of the beautiful Arizona desert? Fort McDowell Adventures offers just that and much more.

Fort McDowell Adventures is a venue my daughter and I visit at least three times a year. They are so friendly and really work at making your visit relaxing and enjoyable.  They match your horse with your riding skill, so if you are a beginner there is no reason to fear - you will be just fine so sit back and enjoy the trail. They offer all sorts of different adventures and we look forward to trying something new from them soon.

http://www.fortmcdowelladventures.com/about-our-venues/horseback-riding/

My daughter is 12 have practically "Jane Wayne".  She loves these mornings alone with me and I love that she keeps and eye on me!

We crossed the Verde River 4 times and saw wildlife as we made our way across the changing landscape for the 90-minute ride.

Kayaking the Upper Salt River

Every day is a good day for adventure, for trying something new, and so this past Mother's Day I asked to go kayaking. My family jumped at the chance!

Capt Ted is a wonderful tour guide. Thru him we had everything everyone needed for our adventure - Kayaks (single or tandem), wet bags, life vests and park passes. He guides you with expertise and calmness. We stopped twice along the journey to stretch our legs on  beach and have a snack. Throughout our 9 mile - 4 1/2 hour trip we witnessed wild mustangs, cattle, beavers, bald eagles, coyotes, turtles, road runners and other wildlife. We took our children too. My 15 yr old boy and 12 year old daughter had the best morning and have asked to back and next time they want a solo kayak.

I would recommend Capt Ted and am looking forward to another adventure. Perhaps Father's Day?