SONY DSC

During the fall, everyone looks for events he or she can enjoy with the family. These corn mazes are one way to enjoy the season and to keep everyone entertained for hours.

Merrymead Farm

Merrymead Farm is a family farm that hosts several events throughout the fall. They have been celebrating the seasons for over 30 years. Merrymead Farm hosts tours and school trips to visit the scarecrow and the farm animals and to enjoy fresh cider doughnuts. During their Fall Harvest Weekends, you can paint a pumpkin, join the wagon ride, enter the corn maze or the cornstalk tunnel, and even get a souvenir!

Cherry Crest Farm

The Cherry Crest Farm is celebrating fall with a “Thank a Farmer” corn maze. The farm hosts events throughout summer and fall. Apart from the corn maze, you can learn how milk processes, hold a baby chicken, hoist hay bales, and enjoy several other events held throughout the season. Cherry Crest Farm suggests you set aside four to five hours to enjoy the entire experience.

Maize Quest

Maize Quest hosts over 30 attractions throughout the season, including school field trips, family events, large groups, birthdays, and more. If you have ever wanted to enjoy a maze at night, this is one of the few places you can do just that. There is even a maze app to let you enjoy the experience even more.

Every one of these mazes hosts some of the most popular events in the area. Start planning now to get the first choice on pumpkins and more!

Image via Flickr by Andy McLemore

13797383625_e6cbaf4d75_bIt’s been reported that despite a host of features across most trim levels, the 2017 Camry will be sold at the same price as the 2016 model. Keep reading to learn about some of the perks you can expect.

The Entune Multimedia System

If purchasing the XSE or XLE trim level, your 2017 Toyota Camry comes with the Entune multimedia system. Besides offering driver navigation, it connects to apps like Yelp and OpenTable to help you make the most of your outings.

A Wireless Smartphone Charging Feature

Although most modern cars have USB ports and other outlets to help people keep gadgets charged, the 2017 Camry comes with an available Qi Wireless smartphone charging system on the XLE, XSE four-cylinder, and XLE Hybrid.

A Driver Safety Package

All Camrys have 10 standard air bags. However, if you decide to go with the XLE trim level, it includes a driver safety package that can automatically summon help if you get in a wreck, identify where the vehicle is after it’s been stolen, or help you get speedy roadside assistance when you’re stranded.

More Access to an Exclusive Color

Previously, Toyota only offered its Blue Metallic Streak hue on the 2016 Camry Special Edition. However, in 2017, it will be available on both the SE and XSE trim levels. If the vibrant blue shade strikes your fancy, it’s now easier to get it on your vehicle without having to pay extra.

To learn more about 2017 Camry features, schedule a test drive today. Then you’ll be able to experience them first hand.

Image via Flickr by alcidesota@yahoo.com

The Daily Shoot #ds387 - Illustrate the word equality today with a photograph that shows your favorite interpretation.

Four-way stop at a four point intersection.  I played quite a bit with post-processing and might of overdone it, but I liked how the word stop popped off of this one.

Knowing how to deal with a four-way stop can be confusing for even the most experienced drivers in Pennsylvania. Whether you’ve never felt confident approaching them or just need a refresher course, keep reading to get help; these tips are based on Pennsylvania state laws. Intersections are common crash sites, but knowing the rules of the road helps you stay safer.

Be Mindful of Pavement Markings

As you drive up to a four-way stop, remain aware of how the pavement’s marked. The indicators will let you know what you’re allowed to do, and give insight about how other drivers may maneuver their cars.

Come to a Complete Stop

The law in Pennsylvania does not dictate which driver has the right of way at a four-stop. However, it does give instructions about which drivers must yield. When approaching a four-way intersection, always come to a full stop. Never assume you can continue traveling forward, and that other drivers will realize your intentions.

 Check for Other Cars

The presence or lack of other cars at the four-way stop determines how to proceed. If you approach the intersection and are the first driver to reach it, you can move forward first. However, if you get to the four-way stop at the same time as another car, the driver on the left yields to the one on the right. If you are facing the other car, both of you can move forward carefully.

Hopefully these pointers help you feel more confident about handling four-way stops. Happy driving!

Image via Flickr by koocbor

484076985_f13debb5de_bThere are over a dozen hybrid cars on the market, and car manufacturers continually update their offerings so they’re maximally appealing. The Toyota Prius Prime is an ideal example of such innovation. A plug-in model of the popular Prius, this vehicle comes with plenty of perks.

It’s Fun to Drive

Compared to previous Prius models, the Prime has a stiffer chassis and improved suspension tuning. These characteristics help you confidently tackle corners and be reminded that driving is enjoyable. Furthermore, it can go from zero to 60 in about 10 seconds, meaning it’s not a race car, but boasts adequate power.

It Has a Dual-Motor System

Demonstrating its commitment to unveiling cars that feature new, practical technology, Toyota will put a two-motor system under the hood of the 2017 Prius Prime. You can run the car on gasoline, electricity, or both simultaneously. When driven in the electric mode, Toyota estimates a mileage range of 120 miles.

It Features Head-Turning Good Looks

If you’re in the market for a hybrid car, it may as well be one that looks as smooth as it drives. The 2017 Prius Prime certainly fits that description. It’s sleek, aerodynamic body features attractive curves that showcase how this car is pretty and robust all at once. Also, LED lights cut through the night so you’ll see and be seen.

You can buy the 2017 Prius Prime at Toyota dealerships starting late this year. Until then, keep envisioning this hot hybrid, and how much you’d like to own one.

Image via Flickr by Neubie

23855273464_e72c5d1e1c_oMany of today’s leading car manufacturers have begun offering hybrid versions of their most popular vehicles. Toyota is no exception, since it’s done just that with its RAV4. Keep reading to learn some of the reasons why this hybrid is a hot pick.

It Has an Electronic Motor That Responds to Road Conditions

What’s under the hood of a 2016 RAV4 Hybrid? An electric motor capable of up to 194 net horsepower. Even better, the motor has an electronic, on-demand all-wheel drive system that automatically gives more power to the back wheels on slick surfaces for better traction.

It Offers a Real-Time Energy Monitor

Peace of mind during every trip becomes possible thanks to the RAV4’s energy monitor that gives real-time statistics about how the gasoline engine, electric motor, and hybrid battery are powering the vehicle. This dashboard indicator also lets you know when the battery’s charging.

It’s Available With the Entune App Suite

When purchasing a 2016 RAV4 Hybrid you’ll have an opportunity to enjoy the Entune App Suite. It’s standard on the Limited Hybrid trim and an optional feature on the XLE Hybrid. The Entune App Suite offers subscription-free services such as traffic and weather reports, plus compatibility with familiar apps like Facebook Places, Pandora, and Yelp. This technology app makes it straightforward and fun to know more about the places where you’re driving, stay connected to people, and hear favorite tunes.

Learning more about standard and optional features of the RAV4 Hybrid is simple. Just plan to test drive this cool vehicle soon.

Image via Flickr by automobileitalia

BRISTOL, TN - MARCH 16:  Jeff Burton, driver of the #31 AT&T Mobility Chevrolet, does a victory lap after winning the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Food City 500 at the Bristol Motor Speedway on March 16, 2008 in Bristol, Tennessee.  (Photo by Chris Trotman/Getty Images for NASCAR)

If you’re feeling the need for speed, the state of Pennsylvania has numerous places where you can watch some of the region’s top drivers face off against each other. It’s vicarious living at its finest.

Buck Motorsports Park

Located just under two hours from Hatfield by car, Buck Motorsports Park is a great destination for a themed road trip. For over four decades, this facility has hosted pulse-pounding events that make people marvel at high-tech, speedy vehicles. Simply purchase tickets at the gate and get ready for a night of fun.

Grandview Speedway

Offering a clay track that’s a third-of-a-mile in length, Grandview Speedway provides a family-friendly environment for motorsports enthusiasts. Situated less than 45 minutes from Hatfield by car, this point of interest lets people get memorable glimpses of the modified car industry as vehicles race around this historical dirt track.

Beaver Springs Dragway

Beaver Springs Dragway is located in Central Pennsylvania and regularly attracts novice drag racers, seasoned professionals, and everyone in between. This facility provides a very supportive and accepting environment for anyone who’s fascinated by drag racing, even if they don’t have top-grade vehicles. This quarter-mile track sits at a 632-foot elevation. Besides the drag racing track, facilities at Beaver Springs Dragway include restrooms, a concession stand, and scales.

This list should provide a solid starting point if you’re ready to spend a day or two immersed in Pennsylvania’s motor racing culture. Plan your trip today and get ready to have a renewed appreciation for the capabilities of cool cars.

Image via Flickr by zmmrc

7174336898_45a7a0e2a8_bStatistics say most car seats aren’t used or secured in vehicles properly. Follow the tips below to keep your littlest passengers safer so you can enjoy more peace of mind.

Check for Wiggle Room

Always follow manufacturer’s directions for placing the car seat firmly. Once you’ve done that, focus your attention on the part of the car seat where the vehicle’s safety belt passes through it, and tug on that section. If it moves back and forth more than an inch, the car seat isn’t adequately secured.

Use Attachments Properly

The direction the car seat faces depends on the age of the child using it. Up until they’re about two, kids should sit in rear-facing car seats. No matter which direction the seat faces in your car, ensure you’re using all available attachments as specified.

When the seat faces to the rear, secure it from the bottom using either your car’s seat belt, or the provided lower car seat attachments. Both are equally effective, and you’ll want to choose the one that offers the best fit, but never use both at once. If the car seat faces frontwards, you need to also use the top tether to keep the seat in place.

Ask for Help if in Doubt

If you’re uncertain about whether the car seat is installed correctly, always get assistance from professionals. Some organizations offer free car seat inspections and are available to give guidance.

Following these tips will help ensure that your child is safe on the road, and what could be more important than that?

Image via Flickr by stevendepolo

 

When it comes to shopping for a new truck, you have a number of great options, including the Toyota Tacoma and Toyota Tundra. Learn more about each truck to figure out which will best suit your needs.

Size

One of the key differences between the two trucks is size. The Tacoma is a midsize, while the Tundra is full-size. As a result, the Tundra can tow quite a bit more when properly equipped. The Tacoma towing capacity caps out at 6,800 pounds, but the Tundra can tow up to 10,000 pounds with the available towing package.

Engine Options

The full-size Tundra also has beefier engine options than the Tacoma. You can opt for either a V8 4.6-liter engine that produces 327 pound-feet of torque and 310 horsepower, or the 5.7-liter V8 engine that increases the horsepower to 380 and the torque to 397 pound-feet. The Tacoma offers two engine options as well: a four-cylinder 2.7-liter engine that produces 159 horsepower and the V6 4.0-liter engine that has an increased output of 236 horsepower.

Family-Friendly

The Tundra offers more space along with premium safety features such as rear cross-traffic alert, the Toyota Star Safety System, and blind spot monitoring. The Tacoma also has a full-size cab with seating for five, so there is plenty of room for passengers and gear.

No matter which truck you choose, both the Toyota Tacoma and Toyota Tundra will offer great features and options that will make it a great fit for what you need.

Image via Flickr by ilikewaffles11

 

More and more drivers are looking for fuel-efficient vehicles to reduce their emissions while also allowing them to spend less at the gas pump. Toyota has plenty of options to choose from, ranging from full-size SUVs to compact sedans.

Toyota Prius

The 2016 Toyota Prius recently earned the top ranking in its class from the U.S. Department of Energy for its fuel efficiency. The combined estimate comes in at 42 miles per gallon, or 40 MPG on the highway and 44 MPG in the city.

Toyota Avalon Hybrid

If you want a sedan with a spacious interior and premium features, take the Toyota Avalon Hybrid out for a spin. The car gets an estimated 40 miles per gallon combined, which is an increase of 16 MPG from the standard Avalon. It also has a large 17-gallon fuel tank, giving it a range of up to 700 miles between fill-ups.

Toyota Camry Hybrid

The Camry is a favorite among buyers, with reliability and standard features that make it more appealing. Toyota engineers added a new level of appeal to the sedan by making it a hybrid. This increases the fuel efficiency to 41 miles per gallon combined. Its aerodynamic design also helps make it more efficient, but it’s still fun to drive.

When you opt for a hybrid vehicle, you may spend a little more at the time of purchase. But when you factor in the amount of fuel you will save over the life of the car, it becomes well worth the extra initial expense.

Image via Flickr by Rian Castillo

 

Small Town Fun

Jun 18, 2016

 

Hatfield, Pennsylvania is a small town but has a number of activities available for visitors of all ages.

Lansdale Farmer’s Market

Spend the day outdoors at the Lansdale Farmer’s Market, held in the Hillcrest Shopping Center parking lot on Main Street in Lansdale. The market is open every Saturday from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. from mid-May through early November. Shop for fresh and local produce, handmade gifts and treats, and freshly prepared delicacies like guacamole and gelato.

Jumpin’ Jack’s Inflatable Playland

If you find yourself in the Hatfield area with younger kids, plan a trip to Jumpin’ Jack’s Inflatable Playland. This indoor fun center has inflatable slides, bounce areas, and games for children of all ages. There is also a designated “Jumpin’ Joey Zone” for kids ages four and under. You can enjoy snacks and drinks from the concession stand and spend a day making fun memories together.

Asher’s Chocolates

Located on Wambold Road in Souderton, Asher’s Chocolates is a fun spot to visit for anyone who has a sweet tooth. Since 1892, the family owned company has made delicious  fine chocolate treats for those in the area as well as customers throughout the country. You can even sample sugar-free treats.

Boyd’s Cardinal Hollow Winery

This winery is in West Point and offers tours and tastings to visitors. Sample some of the local favorites, including organic dry strawberry and blackberry wines that use flavors from the area.

Whether you live near Hatfield or are planning a trip to the area, be sure to add these fun activities to your to-do list.

Image via Flickr by Emily Allen