The Leach Botantical Garden, one of my FAVORITE spots in S.E. Portland at on the north side of Mt. Scott is offering a Children's Nature Fair Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

It's free but donations are welcome. A bunch great activities are planned: arts and crafts, Mad Science's "Fire & Ice" show, slug races (HA!), ladybug walks and more.

Click here for all the deets.

This is one of my favorite local guides for walks and hikes of varying distances and abilities. You wanna do a short wander by the waterfront? There's a hike for that. Wanna burn some major calories and work those muscles? There's a longer hike with more elevation gain! And!AND! It's frugal fun for the family!

Click on the image to check out some local treks.

Jason Mraz owns an avocado farm, did you know that? Neither did I, until now. He loves avocados SO MUCH he's willing to share his recipe for "Chocomole," like guacamole, but made with avocados. You know, so it's healthy!

Mraz's Chocomole Recipe:

Note: This will make a huge bowl big enough for a family of four. You'll want to share this with friends.

Mash up 5 ripened avocados

Add 1 - 2 cups of chopped or blended dates

1 soft cup of raw cacao

1 easy cup of raw carob powder

1 tbsp. vanilla

Add a few long pours of agave nectar to sweeten to liking

Then add half cups of cocoa and keep adding until chocolate taste is right. Careful not to overdo it -- if you add too much, it can get bitter.

THIS is the most effective Kmart marketing campaign since the Blue Light Special. And, it's hilarious.