Photo: istock

This isn’t a post about entertaining my son with a new and clever idea. This is a post about why I believe Black Lives Matter, and why our children should learn the same. For a few days I grappled with something to share, then I realized that my learned behavior might be relatable. I’m a forty-year-old white woman, raised in a middle-to-upper class environment. Regardless of my personal circumstances, my privileges, my mother and father succeeded in providing a home for me based on acceptance and love. Now I’m realizing why that matters so much. 

One day, when I was younger, we were driving into the city from Long Island to attend a Broadway show. I loved Broadway. We parked our car in the usual parking garage and walked to our favorite restaurant around the corner to dine beforehand. It was our tradition. We passed a homeless person, a black man, sitting on the street. It might have been my first recollection of a homeless man. I remember staring, and I can still see him now as I write this. He wore a blue sweater and looked so tired. I was maybe six or seven. We walked passed him and then my dad stopped, took out his wallet (I use the same wallet today since he passed away just two weeks before my only son was born). He took out a hundred dollar bill and turned around to walk back to the man. My eyes popped. Then my mom said, “Wait!” She suggested smaller bills to make it easier for him to use and retrieved them from her wallet. She remembers this story too. She also remembers that I asked why they gave that homeless man money. She said that my dad answered me without hesitation, “He is no different from me.”

My lessons began early. To give. To not judge. To see no difference in people. But there is frankly so much noise, different opinions, down to the car radio playing the news to school in the mornings. Stuff can get through the cracks. I’m looking at it all. 

Later in life, I moved into my first Hollywood apartment at twenty-two. Dad, of course, was right by my side to help. Financially, and physically. Always was. I acknowledge how easy it was for me in those regards. I don’t deny it. I also admit my shortcomings. For instance, I was just moved in, the truck was emptied, and I was walking back through the courtyard. A young black man was coming out of the apartment right next to mine locking his door. I hadn’t seen him yet. He was black and I was dumbfounded. Was this a good building I thought? I was so green. I think back to that thought and I hate that my instinct was troubled. Even with my good examples, something sunk in to judge him in that moment. 

The neighbor gave a sweet hello and I was shy (I’m not usually shy) and barely answered. As I stepped into my tiny apartment, I was about to tell my dad… when he said, “Oh honey, I met Ramsey your neighbor. Really sweet guy, music producer. He said he’d invite you over this weekend for a dinner he’s having, to meet people. Isn’t that great?”  It was great. It was even greater that my dad said that. Perhaps being born in 1936 he saw it all. So he learned to live by example, without fear. I went to that dinner, and Ramsey became my first friend in Los Angeles. 

We all have work to do, parents especially. We are supposed to know right from wrong. Racism is wrong! Anyone who thinks otherwise isn’t someone I want in my son’s life as far as that can be controlled. Beyond that, I have to give him the tools to know the difference. I want to raise a good human. I want to be the example. I want to answer his questions and discuss openly why BLACK LIVES MATTER to me. My child’s beliefs can start with me. 

My son was born in New Orleans in 2015. A fate I now treasure. His history will be filled with a culture that I adore and openness from the beginning. His first doctor, doula, nurse, playgroup friend, were all black. I’m so thankful for that. I wish I didn’t have to see it like that, that’s the hard truth. I now understand that the communities we choose and continue to live in will support our family’s experience with race and racism. 

We need to model good behavior for our children. Racism isn’t good behavior. That is what I realized this morning. It begins with us. This will help break the cycle that is hurting millions today. I’m hurting too. My son saw me in tears the other day. I couldn’t share what happened to George Floyd yet, he’s only four. All I said is, “One day son, I’ll tell you about a man. His name is George Floyd.”

Jenni Dawn lives just outside of Los Angeles with her husband, newly rescued dog, and four year old son. She has a background in everything Entertainment, so it makes perfect sense to cover how to entertain family at home. Jenni's also a Cancer survivor with a passion for spreading hope and prevention advocacy. 

People across the country are utilizing video conference services such as Zoom to stay connected with family, friends and coworkers. Whether you are looking to hide your messy room or you simply want to add a bit of fun to happy hour with your friends, there are plenty of Zoom backgrounds to meet your video conferencing needs. Check out some of the best backgrounds we have rounded up so far.

Platform 9 3/4

The DoorDash Lunchroom has backgrounds for some of your fave restaurants, like The Cheesecake Factory, Cracker Barrel, Baskin Robbins and Panera Bread.

Take meetings from the Bahamas. There are even swimming pigs!

Add a little Harry Potter magic to your next meeting from Platform 9 3/4 to The Great Hall.

Unsplash offers many beautiful Zoom backgrounds from gorgeous office spaces to luxurious beach shots.

From the Golden Girls living room to Rory’s apartment in Star’s Hollow, Modsy has put together a collection of re-imagined pop culture interiors.

Delish created fun Easter and Passover themed backgrounds to brighten up your virtual holiday celebrations.

HBO has countless backgrounds based on Game of Thrones, Westworld, Euphoria, Insecure, Succession and more. 

Pixar has released backgrounds for your favorite movies including Toy Story, Up, Finding Nemo and Inside Out. You can also find backgrounds for based on Cars and The Incredibles

“Werk” from the set of RuPaul’s Drag Race.

Host a virtual meeting from under the sea with Spongebob.

These Schitt’s Creek backgrounds will transport you to the Rosebud Motel.

CBS All Access can transport you into one of their hit shows including Star Trek Discovery.

FOX can help make your meetings more animated transporting you to the worlds of The Simpsons or Bob’s Burgers.

Hold your next meeting with Agent Coulson at the Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. base.

Insert yourself into one of your favorite ABC shows like American Idol or Modern Family.

Zoom provides instructions on how to use virtual backgrounds. The company says there are no size restrictions for virtual backgrounds but it recommends cropping the image to match the aspect ratio of your camera before uploading it.

—Jennifer Swartvagher

Featured photo: Trang Dang from Pixabay 

 

RELATED STORIES

Some Restaurant Chains Announcing Free Delivery Amid Dining Room Closures

Starbucks Temporarily Changes to a “To Go” Model in US and Canada

Local Business Financial Aid Resources: COVID-19

Most of us don’t need any encouragement to dream of bright, sunny days spent outdoors with family and friends. So when the dust settles and it’s time to head to the pool, be sure you’re taking this new float with you!

Urban Outfitters Friends Door Pool Float is a must for die hard fans. The purple door is straight out of Monica’s apartment, with faux frame included!

The plastic float measures approximately five a half feet long and two and a half feet wide. Meant for only one person at a time, it definitely has us calling “dibs!”

You can find this float for $35 at Urban Outfitters for the summer season.

––Karly Wood

All photos: Courtesy of Urban Outfitters

 

RELATED STORIES

Zappos and PBS KIDS Team Up to Release Arthur Adaptive Collection

Disney’s 2020 Year of the Mouse Collection Has Arrived on Amazon

The New Harry Potter x Boden Kids Collection Has Us Believing in Magic

 

It looks like Hilary Duff isn’t the only celeb reprising their role in the oh-so-nostalgic reboot of Lizzie McGuire. Reportedly, the show’s original family cast will all make comebacks in the new series.

The teen-turned-adult revival of the Disney fave follows McGuire (Duff) as she turns 30, works in her dream job, dates her dream guy and lives in a dream apartment in Brooklyn. While this may sound vaguely familiar to fans of Duff’s TV Land show Younger, there are some differences—starting with the cast!

So which stars will make a return? Entertainment Weekly recently reported that stars Hallie Todd (Jo, Lizzie’s mom), Robert Carradine (Sam, Lizzie’s dad) and Jake Thomas (Lizzie’s younger bro, Matt) will all reprise their roles on the new series. Likewise, Duff recently posted a pic of a cast read-through with the caption, “we are standing in what will soon be the McGuire living room. What’s up fam. We doin this.”

Along with the same cast as the original, the reboot will also feature Lizzie’s beloved animated alter-ego. While the new series is currently in production for Disney, as of now there’s no word on a debut date.

—Erica Loop

Featured photo: Hilary Duff via Instagram 

 

RELATED STORIES

Disney+ Is Bringing “Lizzie McGuire” Back

This Is Every Show and Movie Coming to Disney+ & There Are A Lot!

Disney+ Will Offer the Option to Download and Save Your Family’s Favorite Flicks

There was nary a Friends fan who didn’t covet the insanely hip, effortlessly thrown together look of Rachel and Monica’s larger-than-life NYC apartment. Now your wishes are finally coming true as Pottery Barn has just released a Friends collection!

To celebrate the 25th anniversary of Friends, Potter Barn has brought back the beloved Apothecary Table from the episode titled, you guessed it, “The One with the Apothecary Table.”

In addition to this perfect living room centerpiece, Pottery Barn has released 13 additional new Friends-inspired items including pillows, mugs emblazoned with classic one-liners like “You’re My Lobster” and “Joey Doesn’t Share Food,” tea towels, a doormat and wall art.

The collection, which ranges in price from $12.50 to $1,099, is now available online at Pottery Barn and in stores nationwide.

Fans can also enter to win a free trip to Warner Bros. Studios in Los Angeles where they will be treated to a deluxe tour of the studio including a stop into the Central Perk set from Friends. The grand prize winner will also score a $1,000 shopping spree at Pottery Barn. Entries will be accepted until Sep. 30. You can get the full rules and details here.

—Shahrzad Warkentin

All photos: Courtesy of Pottery Barn

 

RELATED STORIES

IKEA Recreates Living Rooms of “The Simpsons,” “Friends” & “Stranger Things”

Pottery Barn Kids Just Dropped 2 New Collabs & You’ll Want Them Both

Pottery Barn’s Newest Kids Room Collab Is Out of This World

Forget about a house or apartment. Now you can rent the iconic Oscar Mayer Wienermobile for your next overnight stay.

How can you get the chance to sleep in the mobile mega-dog? Starting Jul. 24 you can rent the Wienermobile for a stay on Aug. 1, 2 or 3 via Airbnb! And sorry, you can only rent it for one night—not all three.

According to the Airbnb listing, the rental is $136 per night. Even though the roving hot dog typically moves, the overnight stay is stationary (in Chicago). The rental includes a sleeping space, sitting area and outdoor bathroom. Renters will also get a mini fridge stocked with (of course) Oscar Mayer hot dogs and Chicago-style essentials.

Along with the fridge-full of doggies, you’ll get an Oscar Mayer roller grill to take home and a hot dog-inspired welcome kit!

—Erica Loop

Featured photo: Oscar Mayer via Instagram 

 

RELATED STORIES

Hello Kitty Cafe’s Newest Location Pops Up in Las Vegas

Here’s How to Win a Lux Swim-Up Suite Vaycay from Sandals

The Halo Top Ski Lodge Will Make Your Ice Cream Dreams Come True

Not sure where to put all of baby’s stuff? Before you spend your money on high-priced furniture, baskets and bins, read on for some clever—and cost-effective—organizational ideas, many of which you can DIY. With all the money you’ll save, you’ll be able to buy even more stuff if you like.

Storage Containers

IKEA

These IKEA hampers fold down flat when not in use, but trust us: You'll find tons of uses for them. Fill them with stuffed animals, dress-up clothes or other toys. The large opening means it's easy for your child to pull items outand put them back in during clean-up time. They're also handy for stocking with clothes that are out of season or that your child hasn't grown into yet. Stack them in your closet to save space. They're sturdy enough to remain upright, and the airy mesh sides mean they don't trap smells or moisture.

Available at ikea.com, $7.99.

Changing Station Organizer

100 Layer Cake-Let

Hang a peg board over the changing table and decorate it with a mix of cool accessories and necessities: baskets filled with butt cream and wipes, baby's monogram, and a favorite toy to distract during diaper changes. It'll all be out of the way but easily in reach. Win-win!

Idea: 100 Layer Cake-Let

Book Baskets

Apartment Therapy

Keep your bookworm's hardcovers and pop-ups looking brand new by stashing them in hanging baskets. Put the special reads (like Grandma's hand-me-downs) in higher baskets out of baby's reach, and keep sturdier board books on lower shelves.

Idea: Apartment Therapy

Clipboard for Accessories

Tinker With This

Keep small items like headbands, bowties or hats in order with this cute DIY clipboard. To make it, get some pallet wood (paint it if you like) and use wood glue to adhere clothespins across it. When your child gets older, use it to organize jewelry, award ribbons or other small items.

Idea: Tinker With This

Burlap-Covered Boxes

My Pink Life

Lots of diapers means plenty of empty diaper boxes. Reduce, reuse and recycle by wrapping the boxes in burlap or your favorite patterned fabric or wrapping paper. Fill the boxes with diapers, onesies, baby toys or anything else that needs a home.

Idea: My Pink Life

Closet Dividers

Blissfully Domestic

If you received clothes in various sizes at your baby shower or stocked up during Black Friday sales, you may find your baby's closet overrun with items in multiple sizes, making it hard to find what actually fits. To keep clothing organized by size, decorate plain wooden door hangers. If your closet bar isn't removable, hang the divider signs on a pretty ribbon.

Idea: Blissfully Domestic

Diaper Decor

Junk in the Trunk Vintage

Diapers are so much a part of your baby's room (and both of your lives!), you might as well make them part of the decor. In this clever hack, a shower caddy doubles as a handy and supercute diaper holder/display. Add a few coats of spray paint to match it to your nursery's color scheme.

Idea: Junk in the Trunk Vintage

Floating Shelves

Handmade Charlotte

A few inexpensive wooden boxes, some paint and hangers to affix them to your nursery wall are all you need for this eye-catching, and endlessly customizable, wall decor. It can hold books, toys, photos and much more. Best of all, you can keep adding to the display if you need more storage space, or rearranging it as your needs change. 

Idea: Juliana de Giacomi via Handmade Charlotte

Mini Chalkboard Clips

amazon.com

Attach these mini chalkboards (they come with attached clothespins) to toy bins, laundry baskets, storage baskets and more! This decorative way to label containers keeps items organized and gives you better oversight into what you have.

Available at amazon.com, $8.99 for a pack of 12.

featured photo: KathrinPie via Pixabay

— Ayren Jackson-Cannady

 

RELATED STORIES:

Get Organized, Baby: 11 Clever Nursery Storage Tools

Into the Wild: Amazing Animal Decor for Baby’s Nursery

How to Create a Cozy Reading Nook in Baby’s Nursery

 

Traveling is expensive for anyone, but when you have kids tagging along it can quickly double or triple.  You’ll need to book more flights, rent more rooms and backpacking on a shoestring no longer applies.

Luckily, there are a lot of ways you can save money when planning a trip away with the family. Here are 10 tips that are sure to save you money on your next family getaway.

  1. Make Use of Family Passes: No matter where you go, there is bound to be a point in your trip where you have to choose between purchasing individual tickets or buying a family pass. It’s worth doing the math, but it is almost always cheaper to take the family pass route. From theme parks to concerts and even group tours, this applies to all sorts of attractions and activities, Also, do your research before purchasing expensive tickets. Sometimes the family pass isn’t advertised everywhere you look. You may even find that a different promotional offer that isn’t just for families works out to be even cheaper. Make sure to do the math!
  2. Avoid Major Tourist Traps: Every destination has its typical tourist activities. Whether it’s going to a cultural show in New Zealand or visiting Disneyland in California. It seems crazy to avoid these “must-do” activities, especially when every blogger out there highly recommends them! The truth is, you can experience a new destination a lot better by avoiding these activities. Try to immerse yourself into new cultures naturally without visiting shows that are put on for commercial purposes. On top of getting to know a destination more like a local, you’ll walk away with your wallet a bit heavier.
  3. Find the Cheapest Flights: One of the biggest expenses of any trip is purchasing flights. This is even more true for families than solo travelers as you need to purchase extra tickets for your children. Plus you definitely need to bring checked luggage—you need to keep the toys somewhere and without them, you’ll have nothing to keep the kids entertained! There’s a number of ways to save money on flights, here are a few: Use the best search engines. My favorite is Skyscanner because it researches the cheapest days to fly, uses loyalty schemes and points-based credit cards, and makes the most of budget airlines
  4. Spend on Experiences, Not on Gifts & Souvenirs: It’s far too easy to purchase souvenirs everywhere you go. Before you do, stop and ask yourself, “Do I really need this plastic keyring?” If you already have a keyring, the answer is probably no. If you’re on a budget, it pays to spend it wisely. I always recommend spending your money on creating memories yourself and your kids will remember and cherish for the rest of your lives.
  5. Rent an Apartment Instead of Hotel Rooms: Hotel rooms are expensive so look for cheaper alternatives. A lot of people don’t realize that hostels often have private rooms and sometimes suites. I’ve stayed in a lot of very nice hostels (sometimes called “poshtels”).  if you avoid the bottom of the barrel ones, then you can often find nice, family-friendly accommodation at a budget. Another great alternative is booking a small apartment or house for your family.  Travel apps like AirBnb are perfect for this.
  6. Consider Visiting Budget Destinations: Heading to Hawaii is always a treat, but there are equally beautiful places in cheaper regions around the world. In Southeast Asia, for example, accommodation can be found for a fraction of the price of a hotel room in a first-world country. Everything else tends to be cheaper as well, including eating out and booking tours.
  7. Eat Out Less: Eating out can burn through your budget, especially when you have little ones to bring along. If you’re at a destination where dining out is expensive, consider paying a visit to a grocery store (or even a local market). You can pick up some local ingredients and cook up something delicious for a lot less than it would cost to go to a restaurant.
  8. Book Well in Advance: When planning a holiday, it’s very rare for things to get cheaper the longer you wait.  If you’ve made a decision to go, get planning and book as soon as possible. This is especially true when booking flights and accommodation. Waiting until a week out from the school holidays is going to make your trip significantly pricier. Try to book a year ahead.
  9. Consider Alternative Transport Options: Make a spreadsheet and compare the prices, pros, and cons of every transport option. Perhaps taking the train instead of flying will save you 50 percent of the price of your flights. Maybe it’s cheaper to rent a car at the airport than taking taxis everywhere you want to go. There is never one right way to book transport, and it’s usually best to mix-and-match to find the cheapest option. Do bear in mind, that there is more to this decision than just price. A 14-hour bus ride might be significantly cheaper than flying, but keeping your kids still for 14 hours may be well and truly impossible.
  10. Travel With Another Family: A great way to reduce travel expenses is to share them with other people (and no, your kids don’t count, unless they’re paying)! Find some friends or another family to tag along with you on your trip. You won’t be able to split the cost of airfares, but things like car rentals and accommodation can be shared to save money. On top of the cost-saving, you’ll have other adults there to give you the occasional break if there’s somewhere you really want to visit that your kids wouldn’t be interested in.

Hi, I'm Delilah. I'm a traveler, photographer and writer from Auckland, New Zealand. My favourite places in the world are Queenstown, Singapore and New Caledonia!

Everyone loves to be an insider. And, if you can get the low-down on all the wonderful tips and tricks that will make your trip to The Happiest Place on Earth even more magical, then all the better. From special rides to off-menu treats, these Disneyland secrets will up the ante on your next visit. Scroll down to see them all.

Gabby Cullen

1. You Can Ride Mary Poppins' Horse on King Arthur's Carousel

In 2008, the legendary Julie Andrews was honored with the dedication of "Jingles" the horse, a replica to the one she rode in the iconic Mary Poppins movie. The horse is adorned with bells, like in the movie, umbrellas, and even a silhouette of the world's most famous nanny herself. 

2. Hidden Mickeys

It’s hard to avoid seeing Mickey Mouse everywhere you turn in Disneyland, but did you know that there are a few Mickeys that are intentionally hidden? Disney theme park designers (Imagineers) left behind a treasure trove of hidden Mickeys. Created in the famous mouse’s image, and worked into the overall design of an attraction, there’s no definitive number on just how many Mickeys can be found. There are, however, dozens of blogs and even books dedicated to the subject. Print out a list, like the ones found at Hidden Mickeys Guide, and challenge your family to find as many as you can during your next trip—it’s a fun way to pass the time while you wait in those long lines.

Gabby Cullen

3. Club 33

If you’ve ever strolled around New Orleans Square just outside of the exit from Pirates of the Caribbean you might have noticed a green door with a small placard that reads “33”. This spot is the holy grail of Disneyland secrets: an exclusive club that only a select few are members of. Becoming a member isn’t easy, it's rumoured you have to drop anywhere from $25,000 - $100,000 to start plus an annual fee of $12,000, oh and you’ll have to clear the waiting list, which is rumored to be years long. If you’re lucky enough to know a member you can also join them as a guest. So what’s so special about Club 33? In addition to serving up five-and six-course meals that include dishes like rack of lamb and lobster paella, it is also the only place in the park where you can enjoy an adult beverage from the top-shelf bar. You can also enjoy character visits at the club, valet parking at the Grand Californian, and access to 1901, a private lounge at California Adventure.

4. Morse Code Message at New Orleans Square Train Station

Stop by the New Orleans Square Train Station and you’ll no doubt hear a mysterious morse code message being clacked out from the Telegraph Office next door. The message is actually part of Walt Disney’s original dedication he gave on Disneyland’s opening day. It reads: “TO ALL WHO COME TO DISNEYLAND, WELCOME. HERE AGE RELIVES FOND MEMORIES OF THE PAST, AND HERE YOUTH MAY SAVOR THE CHALLENGE AND PROMISE OF THE FUTURE."

Gabby Cullen

5. Behold the Evil Queen

Mirror, mirror on the wall, the Evil Queen’s in the window, ya’ll (But only if you’re lucky enough to catch her.)! While you and your family are wandering through Fantasyland, be sure to visit Snow White’s Scary Adventures. In the window high above the attraction, the Evil Queen peers out from behind the curtains at random times throughout the day to survey her realm and judge tourists wearing fanny packs. Give the kids your phone and see if they can snap a picture of her evilness!

 

6. The Lilly Belle

Named for Walt’s beloved wife, Lillian Disney, the Lilly Belle is the Presidential Parlor car that trails the back of the Disneyland Railroad steam engine, where the caboose would be. Decorated in mahogany wood paneling and antique furniture and accents, the secret car was once only accessible to members of Club 33 and the few visitors who knew to request a special ride first thing in the morning. Now visitors can reserve a ride aboard the Lilly Belle by booking a two-hour train-themed tour. For $89 per adult, you’ll be loaded up with a drink and a donut first thing in the morning before heading out on a guided walking tour that ends with a grand circle ride aboard the Lilly Belle.

Gabby Cullen

7. Dominguez Tree at Adventureland’s Jungle Cruise

High above the Jungle Cruise in Adventureland, stands a prominent palm tree that predates the existence of Disneyland. It belonged to the Dominguez Family who sold their Anaheim farm to Walt Disney so Disneyland could be built. The Dominguez’s one request was that their beloved family tree, which had been a wedding gift, remain untouched as part of the park. The sentimental man he was, Mr. Disney agreed, and the tree still stands tall today. In fact, one of the youngest members of the family, Ron Dominguez, worked his way up the Disneyland ranks, eventually becoming the park’s president.  Can you find the tree?

8. Secret Menu

The delicious eats are a major part of the fun of a Disneyland visit, but did you know there are even more off-menu treats you can indulge in? You just have to know what to ask for. Some of our favorite selections include the Ice Cream Nachos at the Golden Horseshoe, which is a huge shareable feast of three ice cream scoops on top of waffle cone “chips” topped with hot fudge, whipped cream and chocolate chips. If you prefer something a little savory and are a fan of In N’ Out’s animal style burger, order a Galactic Style Burger at the Tomorrowland Grill to get it topped with French fries, bacon cheese, grilled onions and Thousand Island dressing.

Gabby Cullen

9. Walt's Secret Apartment

If you’ve built a place as magical as Disneyland, you’ll never want to leave, which is probably why Walt Disney built himself an apartment where he could live, work and enjoy the view of the amazing place he created. The entire family used the apartment, and if there were special visitors in the park, Walt and his wife would invite them up for a visit. While no one lives in the apartment today, it acts as a time capsule of sorts, preserved as Walt left it. If you look up at the windows above the Main Street firestation you can see a lamp perpetually glowing.

10. Walk in Walt’s Disneyland Footsteps Tour

Want to get a peek inside that wondrous apartment and an insider’s look at the entire park? Book a “Walk in Walt’s Disneyland Footsteps Tour” and get up close with parts of the park unavailable to most guests. Your knowledgeable guide will treat you to one incredible story after the other as you visit Walt Disney’s private apartment and ride some of the most classic attractions that have been around since the beginning. When the tour is over, you’ll be treated to an exclusive lunch on Main Street U.S.A. For advanced reservations, call 714-781-TOUR.

11. Beyond Tacos & Turkey Legs—Disneyland’s Vegan Options

One of the best things about a day at Disneyland is the delicious snack fest you and the kids get to indulge in. From pizza and chimichangas to corn dogs and giant turkey legs, it’s a foodie fairytale come true. And vegans or guests just looking for veggie options need not feel left out of the fun. A myriad of restaurants throughout the park offer a variety of vegan options to thrill any palate—you just have to know where to go. Here’s a great rundown to bring to the park. We like the vegan jambalaya at Cafe Orleans, and kids will devour the Veggie Tater Bake at Flo’s V-8 Cafe.

Josh Hallett via Flickr

12. Front of the Monorail

Riding the monorail is a unique experience in itself, but for something unforgettable try nabbing a seat in the front with the conductor. While the monorail is mainly used as a mode of transport between the park and hotels, even guests not staying at the Disneyland Resort are welcome to take a ride. Just get on at the Tomorrowland station where you can take a full round-trip ride. When you arrive at the head of the line, put on your best smiles and ask very nicely if you can sit up front. If by chance someone has beat you to the punch, you can ask to wait for the next monorail car. If you’d prefer the view from the back, you can also request a seat in the rear pod. Either seat will give you an incredible unobstructed view of the park below.

13. Pick Up Baby Essentials You Left at Home

Remembering all the essentials you need to bring from home for a trip to Disneyland is a wild ride in itself, especially with a baby in tow. Being the perfect parent you are, you think you have everything covered until the moment when ...  “No diapers?!” Luckily, Disneyland’s got your (and your baby's) behind.  Visit the Baby Care Center near first aid on Main Street, U.S.A. to purchase any important items you may have forgotten—diapers, formula, bottles, wipes, pacifiers—the works. You can also nurse or feed your tot in peace at this quiet spot.

Gabby Cullen

14. Park Bench Where Disneyland Was Born

“The Disneyland Story presenting Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln” attraction is always a thrill for guests who stop by the Main Street Opera House. But the coolest of cool is getting to see the actual park bench where Walt Disney first conceived the idea of Disneyland. While watching his two daughters ride the Griffith Park Merry-Go-Round, Mr. Disney sat and contemplated a magical place where parents and kiddos could experience unimaginable fun together. Yep, it all started right here.  Have your kids take a seat, and see if they get inspired…

15. Magic Moments

A little kindness goes a long way, and if a park employee happens to catch you being especially kind and positive, they might just reward you with a little fairy dust. According to a former Disneyland employee, park employees have the power to grant you with "spur of the moment acts of kindness.” Those gifts could be anything from front-of-the-line passes to free ice cream cones.

16. Best Place & Time to Watch Fantasmic

The fact that your tots have reminded you a billion times today about tonight’s Fantasmic Show gives you a sixth sense they may like to attend (You’re very intuitive that way.). Though most guests vie for a viewing spot in the center, the show was actually designed to be watched from all around the Rivers of America. So we suggest snagging a secret spot near the Haunted Mansion where there’s a lot more breathing room. Also, consider doing the second Fantasmic show instead of the first. You can hit the rides with no lines as everyone catches show #1, and then park empties out a bit for the second show. You’re welcome.

—Shahrzad Warkentin with Jennifer O’Brien

Feature photo: Christian Thompson via Disneyland Resort

 

RELATED STORIES:

17 Ways to Save on Your Next Trip to Disney

Forget Rose Gold—Disney Parks Rainbow Mickey Ears Are the New Hotness

New Disney Parks App Will Make Waiting in Line More Like Playtime

Pixar Fest 2018: The Disney Parks Ultimate Fan Guide

 

 

Whether you’re in an apartment or a tiny home, with a growing family comes less space. Add to that the scores of visiting relatives who want to see their grandkids and your home-office/guestroom/livingroom/playspace starts looking a little crowded.

IKEA has a solution for families (and college kids) everywhere! The Swedish furniture retailer recently revealed a new line of products that are perfect for anyone looking to maximize their space. The RÅVAROR collection stacks, folds and packs up easily—making it easy to move, convert a space or reimagine your home.

Here’s an image of a piece from the RÅVAROR collection before:

 

And after:

Citing the need they’ve found among the more nomadic, urban dwelling population (especially common among millennial families) IKEA designed the furniture to allow people to move easily to a new space without heavy labor or giant truckloads. We think it’s beyond perfect for college-aged dorm dwellers who seem to move every summer.

The line, which won’t debut until 2020, features 20 products, spanning a variety of home goods and furniture needs. look for daybeds, lighting units, storage, sofas, tables, a mini kitchen and more.

Along with RÅVAROR, IKEA also announced a collab with Solange Knowle’s creative agency Saint Heron, a collection (the Musselblomma line) made from recycled plastic and the Rognan robotic furniture line!

—Erica Loop

Featured photo: Courtesy of IKEA

 

RELATED STORIES

Now You can Use Pinterest to Shop IKEA

These Kid-Friendly Picks from the IKEA 2019 Catalog Are Both Genius & Chic

IKEA Recreates Living Rooms of “The Simpsons,” “Friends” & “Stranger Things”