The Week Ahead: One For Nature Lovers

Labor Day is fast approaching. Everyone starts commenting, "Just where did the summer go?" Many high school athletes return to the practice fields and Moms start checking out the latest "back-to-school" fashions.

But let's not rush things too fast. Enjoy what is left of the lazy days of summer by watching a summertime movie, taking a stroll with your dog as the sun sets on Lord Stirling Equestrian Trails or paddle down the Passaic River to the sights and sounds of the swamp waking up.

If you are looking for something a little more energetic and unusual, sign up for the Canine Scavenger Hunt. This is the 10th consecutive year the Friends of Lord Stirling Stable will host this canine caper. If you don't have a dog of your own, go with a friend or borrow a neighbor's dog.

Monday, August 16

• Monday Movies "Free Willy: Escape from the Pirates Cove" - Bernards Township Library, 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m., Program Room B. Keep cool with another water centric free movie where a baby orca (killer whale) is stranded in a lagoon and needs to be rescued. A full length movie staring Beau Bridges and Bindi Irwin.  Rated PG. No registration required. Free admission.

Tuesday, August 17

• Registration Opens for Fall Programs at the YMCA – Somerset Hills YMCA, 140 Mt Airy Rd, Basking Ridge, 7 p.m. for members and Friday, Aug. 20 at 10 a.m. for potential members. The fall program guide is available now for viewing on the Somerset Hills YMCA website; individuals may also pick up a hard copy of the program guide at either of the Welcome Centers at Mount Airy Rd or Riverwalk, or call 908-766-7898 and ask to have one mailed to them. Registration is on a first come, first served basis.

• Knitters and Crocheters - Bernards Township Library.  10 a.m. to 12 p.m., Program Room B. Bring your current project or one you are planning to start and share tips, techniques and ideas with other enthusiasts. For further information, call 908-204-3031.

• Early Birds Paddle - Lord Stirling Park, 190 Lord Stirling Rd, 6:30 a.m. – 8:30 a.m. Paddlers will start the day on a quiet paddle along the Passaic River to enjoy swamp sights and sounds in the early morning. Register online at www.somersetcountyparks.org or call 908-766-2489. Advance payment required.

Wednesday, August 18

• Boardwalk Bash - Bernards Township Library.  2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Games, prizes, boardwalk food and more to conclude the Summer Reading Program. All ages invited. Register ahead, but walk-ins will be welcome. Free Admission.

• Teen Movie - Bernards Township Library, 6:30 p.m. Program Room B. The film adaptation of the Alex Rider Series starring Alex Pettyfer.  No registration required. Free Admission.

Thursday, August 19

• Noodle Night at the Pleasant Valley Pool – Pleasant Valley Park.  5:30 p.m. to 8:30  p.m. Bring your own noodle. 

Friday, August 20

• YMCA Free Friday – Somerset Hills YMCA, 140 Mt Airy Rd, Basking Ridge. Become acquainted with many of the YMCA's programs and facilities. Open to all, no admission. Families and individuals can enjoy full access to both facilities at Riverwalk and Mount Airy Rd. Group fitness, rock climbing wall, pool, spinning classes, zumba and more.

• Katydid Kids – Lord Stirling Park, 190 Lord Stirling Rd. 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Bugs can be fun for children ages 4 to 6. In this program learn about bugs and insects through crafts, stories and games as they explore habitats, homes, and lives. Fee is $15 per person. http://www.somersetcountyparks.org. Advance payment required.

Saturday, August 21

• Dog Walk on the Equestrian Trails – Lord Stirling Stable, 256 S. Maple Ave. Enjoy a walk with your pup as the sun sets. Meet at 6:45 p.m.  Walk from 7 p.m. – 8 p.m.

Sunday, August 22

• Beginner Trail Ride – Lord Stirling Stable, 256 S. Maple Ave., 10 a.m. – 11 a.m. Novice Horseback Riders can participate in a one-hour guided trail ride. Register in advance: August 9 - 19. Fee: $28 Somerset County resident/$36 non-resident.

• Canine Scavenger Hunt – Lord Stirling Stable, 256 S Maple Ave. It's a hunt for 'treats.' Accompany your pet on the equestrian trails to sniff out doggie treats. Register between 4 p.m. and 5 p.m. The "Hunt" starts at 5 p.m. Fee is $10 per dog and handler with a $2 charge for each additional person. Prizes will be awarded to all participants. For additional information call  908-256-1910.