Kimberly may be getting ready for her next New Hampshire escape, and this blog has been discontinued. Thanks for visiting and happy travels!

Hi Kim,

We have a vacation home in Jaffrey and now that our daughter is 5, we
are discovering all kinds of kid-friendly things to do in the Monadnock
Region. We'll be in the area several times between now and Thanksgiving.
Any festivals, events or other day trips that you would recommend? We're
always stuck without any ideas when it rains...any ideas for a rainy day
trip?

Karen

Hi Karen -

I just had half this email written before my computer some how froze and deleted it! Ugh...

Anyway, depending on which side or corner of Jaffrey you are on, there are different options.

For rainy days I suggest this always - local libraries. Milford has an incredible library. The children's room is loaded with endless books, books on tape, videos and role playing toys like dress-up outfits or play kitchens. IF you are there during the week you might want to check out their children's programs where they learn about music, art or even cooking. On the other end of you, is Keene, and their library is fantastic too. Of course near every library is a well place coffee shop or eatery for the parents too!

Also in Milford is Hampshire Hills Fitness Club, if health is attractive to you. This facility has everything under the sun, and a lovely day care. They do allow non-members to purchase day passes. www.hampshirehills.com

If semi-rainy, or just muddy, Milford also has a wonderful playground called Keyes Field. They have a skate park, tennis courts, huge sand box and several play structures well suited for a 5 year old [my oldest son is 5].

If a bit of a drive is ok, then head east to Derry and check out the small, yet extremely well done Children's Metamorphosis Museum is. Check out www.childrensmet.org

The old town hall theater in neighboring Wilton is full of eye candy and offers Sundays matinees, sometimes featuring kids movies.

Also, due to the season, there are a slew of craft fairs around southern NH that are billed for entire families. On Saturday November 19, there is a SUPER one in Merrimack, NH at Thorntons Ferry Elementary. They have incredible raffles, silent auctions, over 50 vendors, a Santa store for kids, ornament and face painting and all kinds of Santa stuff for them. Look at the calendar of events in the local paper, The Milford Cabinet. www.cabinet.com

I hope that helps...at this point in the year local papers are you best bet for their jammed packed calendars. Email me any time with questions...

Good luck
Kimberly