Garden of the Gods is a stunning rock formation in Shawnee National Forest with expansive views of Southern Illinois.
Chris Marts 
Visit Shawnee National Forest and Discover the Stone Face
We initially traveled to Shawnee National Forest in Southern Illinois to get our feet wet with a new camper. Aside from boondocking, we visited Shawnee to explore the beautiful Garden of the Gods.
Our First Camper Trip: Lessons from Shawnee National Forest
Our first trip with the camper took us to Shawnee National Forest in Southern Illinois.
Cherokee Marts Embracing Independence as Our Oldest Drives
Cue the sappiness.
Tagging Cars: A Family Activity That Feels Illegal
Normally as a parent, you wouldn’t want your kids spray painting things like cars.
Things The Kids Have Said
“You guys don’t know what it’s like to be a kid!” – C We now joke that Chris hatched from an egg at 30. Not sure how to explain his earlier life, but nope, he has never been a child. “Why is it illegal to eat humans?” -C Well, would …
WHY SO MANY SPORTS?!
I’m going to start off with this. Chris and I are not sports people.
Discover Big Thorn Farm: Unique Off-Grid Brewery in Illinois
In rural eastern Illinois lies a brewery unlike any other.