Siouxland Families

If you love sharing with your kids about Lakota culture or have wanted to do so but weren't sure how to start, you're going to be so excited about The Animals Speak: The Lakota Way . It's so kid-friendly with colorful illustrations and I'm happy to share about it. Thank you to Abrams Books for sending me a press copy of  The Animals Speak: The Lakota Way to read and review. Who wrote and illustrated  The Animals Speak: The Lakota Way? The Animals Speak: The Lakota Way was written and illustrated by S.D. Nelson. He is renowned artist with his original works displayed everywhere from the Smithsonian's National Museum of the American Indian to the South Dakota State Historical Society. He is a member of the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe and currently lives in Arizona.  You can learn more about Nelson and his work on his official author website . The Animals Speak: The Lakota Way is published by Abrams Books . Inside  The Animals Speak: The Lakota W...

Have you ever seen the meme about it being customary for Midwesterners to explain, upon being complimented on an article of clothing, that they acquired it at a significant discount? Well, it's funny because it's true! Here in Siouxland, we know the value of hand-me-downs and how buying used items can save money and reduce waste. And Rhea Lana's plays into that perfectly! Read on to find out how. This post is sponsored by Rhea Lana's of Siouxland ***now updated with Spring/Summer 2026 event details!*** What is Rhea Lana's? Rhea Lana is a children's consignment chain known for their high standards and guided by the saying "Moms helping Moms". Community members can resell their used items through the local Sioux City Rhea Lana sales events, run by a really kind local mom named Katy, and then Rhea Lana's pays the person who brought in the items (about 65 % if you label, price, and drop-off your items yourself, or 35% if...

Winter in Siouxland sometimes means frigid temps, arctic winds, and plenty of snow, ice, and slush, and our summers come with thunderstorms and occasional temps over 100. Not to mention storms and rainy days in spring and fall. And don't get me started on Midwest wind! But with rare exceptions when travel is dangerous like ice storms, our exciting weather doesn't mean we have to stay cooped up!  So, here are some of my top suggestions for where Sioux City area kids can play indoors when the weather outside is frightful:

Sioux City, Iowa has plenty of romantic and unique options for a special Valentine's Day celebration. Whether you're looking for an active or a more relaxed experience, there's something for every couple! ( for kid-friendly Valentine events and activities, check out this post instead! ) Here are the top 10 Valentine's Day date ideas in Sioux City, Iowa to help make this holiday extra special. Grab drinks on Historic 4th Street Sip on something special while taking in the charming atmosphere of Historic 4th Street. Try a popular eatery like SoHo Kitchen & Bar, Marto Brewing Co. or Winnie's Mocktails for unforgettable flavor. Enjoy each other's company while taking in the sights and sounds of one of the most historic and vibrant sections of Downtown Sioux City. And watch for Valentine special at the 4th Street bars and restaurants. Go ice skating at the IBP Ice Center Get your heart racing and make some great memories when you enjoy this classic winter sport w...

On a recent trip to Kansas City, I had the opportunity to visit a new restaurant, The Ranch KC, and I was so impressed I wanted to share about it with all of you! My former hometown of Kansas City is one of my favorite travel destinations, not just because I love seeing my family and friends there, but also because there are great places to play, shop, eat, and explore. And The Ranch KC is definitely going on my list of great little places to eat in the KC area for future trips too! The Ranch KC is at its heart a barbeque restaurant with a relaxed atmosphere and lots of kid-friendly options, so I definitely recommend it as a great way to get some KC BBQ, especially if you're visiting the area with kids.  Where is The Ranch KC? The Ranch KC is located at 17207 S US Hwy 71 in Belton, MO, in a small strip mall just a few minutes south of Kansas City itself. There is a plenty of free parking in their parking lot.  Food at The Ranch KC The food a...

Every month I bring you the best things to do in Sioux City and Siouxland, from storytimes and crafts to music festivals, streaming concerts, and holidays from silly to serious. This January, you might also be interested in my posts on indoor play in Sioux City , indoor play in Sioux Falls , and Snow Sports in Siouxland .  I hope this event list inspires you to go make some happy memories with your family this month!  Now updated with January 2026 events and details! Recommended Reads for January  Mice Skating by Annie Silvestro (picture book) Frozen Fun by Kevin Lovegreen (early chapter book) Thurs 1/1 Happy New Year's Day! Go for a First Day Hike to celebrate Fri 1/2 National Science Fiction Day, read a favorite scifi book or watch a favorite scifi show to celebrate! 10am: Family Movie at the Sioux City Public Library  downtown, FREE Sat 1/3 Discovery Saturday at the National Music Museum in Vermillion, S...