Outdoors

On a warm Northeast Ohio morning, a sunflower field feels like a world of its own. Rows and rows of bright yellow blooms stretch toward the sky. Sunflowers have always symbolized joy, hope and resilience. That’s why they make the perfect backdrop for family traditions. They remind us to look toward the light and appreciate the simple gifts each season offers. ...

We've still got plenty of time to enjoy summer, and there's no better place to do it than at the 129th Annual Cuyahoga County Fair. The fair runs from Tue., Aug. 11 through Sun., Aug. 16 at the Cuyahoga County Fairgrounds in Middleburg Heights. ...

I’ve got red, gray and black squirrels in my yard who treat it like they own it. I fill a bird feeder with cheap seeds away from my good feeders as an appeasement, hoping they take the bait — literally and figuratively. ...

You know we're in the thick of summer when the Asian Lantern Festival returns to Cleveland Metroparks Zoo. Experience the wonder of the zoo illuminated after dark, featuring live performances on the Fifth Third Bank Stage and a variety of culturally inspired cuisine at the MetroHealth Asian Food Market. ...

A simple backyard water day doesn't require perfection... just a willingness to make space for laughter, sunshine and family memories. Sometimes, the best summer adventures happen just a few steps outside the back door. ...

My childhood July 4th was unnecessarily dangerous, now that I look back 50 years later. At the top of the list: not the mayonnaise-based salads that sat out all day, or the undercooked hamburgers. It was the discarded sparklers, many still glowing red, that littered the grass while we looked for someone to light the next one. Shoes were optional; burned feet were common.  ...

Excuse my bragging, but I have the eyes (not vision) of a 20-year-old, according to my optimistrist. The reason? I wear sunglasses year-round. Read on about why sunglasses aren't just cool looking, but can protect your eyesight, too. ...

I have one of those camera bird feeders and am thrilled every time it records a visitor... except for the racoon that cleans out my pricey feed. On more than a few sleepless nights, I've run into the yard to shoo one from the feeder. Here's good news about my hobby: A Cleveland Clinic doctor says bird-watching (if not raccoon-chasing) is good for your mind and body. ...