Chinese college students visit Ijams with Missy Kane

Local fitness expert Missy Kane led a group of visiting Chinese college students on a recent hike at Ijams. They had to dodge a few showers but managed a good tour of the boardwalk and River Trail.

Hosted by UT professor of sports management, Rob Hardin, the students were from Shanghai University of Sport and will be in the area for three weeks to practice their English. Many will become sports writers in China.

Welcome to Ijams and Tennessee!

- Stephen Lyn Bales

Two birthdays celebrated today at Ijams

Birthday Charlie is beside Professor Sprout (her left, our right)

There are wizards about at Ijams! 

This morning, birthday party coordinator Kodie Underwood organized a Harry Potter themed party at the nature center. She invited Professor Sprout to serve as hostess for the spirited fete to celebrate young wizard Charlie's ninth birthday.

The kids mixed magical potions and went outside to plant "enchanted" pumpkin seeds in the garden demonstration area. 

Birthday Evan found the largest bone!

And later in the day. 

Newly turned 5-year-old Evanwent on a Dino Dig with his guests but not before getting to release a spicebush swallowtail butterfly that had just emerged from its chrysalis. Evan's friends and family got to watch its first flight.

Wow! Now how cool is that?

For information about birthday parties for kids at Ijams call Kodie: (865) 577-4717, ext. 116. 

- Happy Birthday Charlie and Evan! 

Celebrate the Fourth of July at Ijams

Celebrate your July 4th Holiday at Ijams. 

Peg, Dr. Louise, Kodie, Sharon, Rex and I are here to welcome you.

The rains have passed. (We think.) The temperature is pleasant. We're doing free animal presentations and nature walks. So bring the entire family.

- Stephen Lyn Bales