ML Interest Tag: boat

Kid-Friendly Fishing Holes We Love

by Annette Benedetti

Spring is here and the fish are jumping. Now is the perfect time time for your kids to experience their first catch! If you are looking for the perfect way to get your family out of the house and into nature, heading to a nearby fishing hole is the perfect way to spend a couple of hours or an entire day. There are spots in the city limits and spots a short drive away, depending on how much time you have to try to catch supper. If you aren’t sure where to drop your line, or just just need somewhere new to explore, read on for some of our favorite spots.

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Haldeman Pond

A small 2-acre pond that makes a great spot for kids to fish. It’s got good bank access with plenty of spots for little ones to try their lines. Hidden away in the middle of Sauvie Island makes the pond feel much further away than it actually is, giving you the illusion that you’ve truly escaped the city. It’s stocked around mid-spring, and can be fished all summer long. A parking permit is required for Sauvie Island.

Featured Fish: trout, crappie, bass, catfish.
Location: 17 miles from Portland, off Oak Island Rd on Sauvie Island
Online: mapcarta.com

Henry Hagg Lake

This sprawling lake outside Gaston, Oregon has plenty of room to stretch out! Try your luck at the fishing pier or from any bank, or jump in a boat and explore the deeper waters. Experts recommend fishing the “arms” of the lake either from a boat or the bank for the best chance to catch something. When the kids tire, they’ll find picnic grounds, restrooms, and the chance to swim, too.

Featured Fish: trout, bass, crappie, perch
Location: 34 miles from Portland, past Forest Grove
Online: recreation.gov

Commonwealth Lake

Within Beaverton City limits, this stocked lake offers kids a great chance to practice close to home. A flat paved trail circles the lake, and an ADA fishing platforms makes a perfect spot to cast on. You’ll also find a playground, a picnic area, and restrooms. License required.

Featured fish: trout, bass, bluegill, and crappie
Location: 8 miles from Portland, off Highway 26 in Beaverton
Online: thprd.org

Blue Lake Park

Stocked with a variety of species, this lake offers bank fishing or an ADA accessible dock along with beautiful views. Rent a boat to get out on the water, and when the kids are done fishing they can cool off in the swim area or the splash pad.

Featured Fish: trout, largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, catfish, sunfish
Location: 14 miles from Portland, off NE Marine Dr.
Online: oregonmetro.gov

Canby Pond

Another spot reserved just for young anglers, Canby Pond is open to fishers 17 years old and younger, as well as those who have a Disabled Hunting and Fishing Permit. The pond is stocked and is popular in summer, though fishing is available year-round. Check online for a rotating schedule of events aimed at family fun.

Featured Fish: trout, largemough bass, crappie, bluegill
Location: 25 miles from Portland, Off Highway 99E in Canby
Online: bestfishinginamerica.com

via Pexels

Barton Park

A prime spot for fishing on the Clackamas River, this park offers good bank access and a boat ramp. Camping spots are available for an all-weekend excursion, and there are a few hiking trails to explore. The easy waters here make a great introduction to river fishing for beginners, and the gorgeous scenery doesn’t hurt, either!

Featured Fish: salmon, steelhead, fin-clipped trout
Location: 26 miles from Portland. Off Highway 224 in Clackamas
Online: clackamas.us/parks/barton

Bethany Pond

An easy to reach lake in Beaverton, this makes a great quick stop when you don’t have the whole day. The small pond is stocked with trout, bass, and more with warmwater species added year-round. While it won’t trick you into thinking you’re in the wilderness, it’s a sweet little spot that makes an easy trip for the little ones.

Featured Fish: trout, largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, and bullhead
Location: 12 miles from Portland, off Highway 26 in Beaverton
Online: thprd.org

Rainbow Trout Farm

This beautiful location east of Sandy covers 30 acres and includes 10 fishing ponds. Everything is there to make it the easiest start for any beginner: poles, tackle, and tips. Afterward, you can clean it yourself at their facilities, or have them do it for you and put it on ice. No extra charge! The best part for beginners is that it’s practically impossible to *not* catch a fish at these ponds, so everyone will leave feeling great.

Ponds are dotted between meadows, trees, picnic grounds, and are wheelchair accessible. All stocked with rainbow trout-- no license required.

Featured Fish: Rainbow Trout
Location: 52560 E. Sylvan Dr, Sandy, OR
Online: rainbowtroutfarm.com

Commonwealth Lake Park

Nestled in the Cedar Hills neighborhood, between Walker Rd. and Hwy 26, 20-acre Commonwealth Lake Park surrounds man-made Commonwealth Lake. This stocked lake in neighborhood park great for kids who want to experience their first, second or 50th catch. . Fishing platform that is ADA accessible. The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife stocks the lake with trout, so your kids are likely to have a successful experience.

Featured Fish: Trout
Location: SW Foothill and SW Huntington
Online: thprd.org

 

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How to Talk Like a Sailor (without Swearing)

by Amber Guetebier

Your little skippers will be ready for a high-seas adventure after learning a few fun words and phrases and their nautical origins. And if you like these, check out our pirate dictionary. You never know, one of these terms just might bale you out of the doldrums in just a couple of shakes. Read on!

photo: andreas160578 via pixabay

Adrift: Evolved from the word ‘drift’ or float, it became a way of describing a ship moved by wind and tides. It is now used to describe anything that is lost, as in, “Her matching sock were adrift among the piles of laundry.”

Bale/bale out: To remove water from a vessel, this phrase now means to help someone out of a sticky situation. (Note: alternate, Old nautical English spelling of bail).

Becalm: To cut off the wind from the sails of a ship. Can be used interchangeably with sooth, as in, “The mother was able to becalm her child temporarily with the promise of a cookie.”

Booby: A fearless little sea bird that is known for being easy to catch. The term booby or boob is sometimes used to describe someone who may not be that bright.

Bumboat: A privately owned boat that sells goods or merchandise. Fun to say.

Caboose: Sure, you know it as the little red car at the end of a train but a ship has a caboose too! It’s the kitchen or galley on a small ship.

Cats paws: A term to describe small waves produced by light, variable winds on otherwise calm waters.

Chew (chewing) the fat: Salt pork or fatty, jerky-like meat was common food on sailing vessels as it lasted a long time without rotting. Sailors would complain about the food while gnawing away at the fat, thus the term became synonymous with gabbing, casual conversation or gossip.

Cranky: A crank was an unstable ship or vessel, now a term to describe a toddler who hasn’t napped.

Cringle: Not to be confused with Kris Kringle or the delicious pastry, kringle, this nautical term describes a rope loop at the corner of a sail for fixing the sail to the spar (see definition of spar below).

Dinghy: A dinghy can be a small boat carried or towed by a larger ship, often inflatable and used as a life raft; a type of racing yacht; or a rowboat.

Dog watch: A short watch period (for sailors on deck) from 4–6 p.m. or 6–8 p.m. it can also refer to any night shift, most often the last shift. As in, “Tonight Dad was on dogwatch for the little one’s feeding so mom could get some much-needed sleep.”

Doldrums: An area in the equatorial region of the Atlantic Ocean with calms, sudden storms and unpredictable but light winds. Because of the variable weather ships would get stuck in the doldrums. Now we use it as a term to describe being stuck or stagnant. As in, “Our nightly dinner routine is in the doldrums.”

Dolphin: A man-made structure in the sea or river used as a marker.

Earings: Nope, not (earrings) the kind with bling. These are the small lines that secure the upper corners of the largest sail to the yardarms. (See below for yardarms definition).

Fore and aft: From stem to stern or lengthwise of a ship. “Please vacuum your room fore and aft and not just the entryway.”

Ghost: To sail slowly.

Gob-stoppers: Grapeshot put in the mouth of a young, gabby sailor. Now used to describe the hard, chipped-tooth-inducing candy.

Grapeshot: Small cannonballs; basically smallish balls of lead fired from a canon used to damage rigging or aimed directly at sailors on an enemy ship (cannon balls would be used to cause more structural damage and sink the ship).

Hog: A rough flat scrubbing brush for cleaning the ship’s bottom underwater. No comment.

Horse: To move or adjust a sail by hand, using brute force rather than running rigging.

Hulk: An old ship that has become obsolete. (not all that incredible).

Jack, also jack tar:  A sailor. Also sometimes a flag on a ship.

Jury rig: The act of rigging temporary mast or sails, also the actual mast or sail that has been temporarily rigged. This is now used interchangeably with makeshift.

Mind your P’s & Q’s: When sailors would go to a port town and visit the local tavern, the barkeepers would give them credit. A “P” would indicate pint and a “Q” was a quart. So when payday came and it time to pay their tab, they’d be minding their Ps and Qs. It is now considered a term for good manners.

Ship Shape: A term now used to say something is clean, tidy and ready to go, in the 1800s, ships were inspected to make sure they were okay to port. If a vessel was in “ship shape” it was free of disease or other unsavories. “Timmy’s room was in ship shape before the play date.”

Show your true colors: A warship would have many colored flags on board to try and deceive enemy ships. The true color would only be revealed when it was too late. Now it’s a term used to describe someone who has shown their true nature.

Spar: Not to be confused with the verb which means to fight, a spar is a pole, usually of wood or metal, used to support the ship’s sail. Sometimes called a pelican striker.

Spin a yarn: This phrase means to tell a story or a tale and is comes from the stories sailors would tell to pass the time while doing monotonous tasks such as making spun-yarn.

Starboard and Port: Starboard is the ship’s right and port its left. Fun fact: the term “posh” originated from port out, starboard home, said to be the way to get the best view, and so where the elite class was seated or bunked.

Two shakes or a couple of shakes: Used to describe a short period of time, as in, “Give me two shakes and I’ll have your PB&J ready.” Sailors would measure short periods of time by the shaking of the sails.

Whole nine yards: Old ships had three masts, each of which had three-yard sails, so the whole nine yards meant all sails were up. Now it means all of something.

Yardarms: Either end of a yard of a square sail.

What’s your favorite nautical term or phrase? Share it with us in the comments below. 

—Amber Guetebier

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How a Conversation about Grief Helped Me See My Son’s Future

By Jason Lehmbeck

This summer, I described my son, who is thirteen, as splitting his time between Billie Eilish and the L.A. Dodgers—a typical L.A., young teen existence. If you’re in the same boat, you can probably relate—except that my son, Noah, was born with a genetic condition that comes with a cascade of medical, educational and social complications.

When Noah was born, there was so much we didn’t know. There’s no road map for most of us when we learn about a child’s disability for the first time, whether it’s something that’s commonly understood, or something rare and complicated like Noah’s, which presents a lot like cerebral palsy.

Since our journey with Noah began, we’ve experienced a lot of the frustrations common to parents of young children with disabilities, along with many moments of joy. We’ve met other families and learned that we share common experiences—the fractured nature of support and resources, and the frustrating dead-ends and U-turns that come with trying to access those resources, services, reimbursement, and yes, fun, too.

Staying grounded, reaching out to the community to find other families like yours, and paying it forward when you do are all good guidance, but sometimes it’s really hard to follow that advice when you most need it. The cycles of grief that can accompany parenting a child with a disability are completely normal and necessary—that’s one of the most important things I’ve learned in my journey as a parent, and I owe most of that to Diane Simon Smith, a mother of two boys with disabilities who has practiced marriage and family therapy for more than twenty-three years.

Diane’s guidance on going through the grieving process has had a big impact on me in this season of life as Noah’s dad. As Diane told me and a group of other parents recently, it’s necessary to sit with the emotion that comes with grief. Then, when we’re ready, try to picture a landscape that incorporates that emotion and start building a new future, one brick at a time.

Noah is now at the age when it’s time to start preparing for his Bar Mitzvah celebration. Thinking about how different it will be for him and our family has triggered a whole new cycle of grief for me, and served as yet another reminder that so many things aren’t typical for Noah. He won’t have the kind of ceremony that his mother and uncle did when they turned thirteen. Sadness overwhelms me every time I think about that. So I do my best to sit with the emotion. Then, taking Diane’s advice, I think about all that’s possible in building a Bar Mitzvah with Noah that’s not typical. And with that first brick, I see a future that fills me with joy.

As we engage with the Rabbi, Noah, and his family to prepare for Noah’s big day, we’ve all been reminded of the core purpose of this ceremony. The essential idea is to establish that Noah is ready to be a part of the community, and the community is ready to receive him as a fully-fledged member. Typically, the person does intensive studying in preparation to perform a Torah reading during the service. But we are taking a not-so-typical approach so that Noah can bring his whole self to the service through his strengths and loves. As with everything in Noah’s life, music will be everywhere. We are still working on which Billie Eilish song is most appropriate based on his portion of the Torah, but he will be rocking his eye-gaze device to let us know. And in doing so, he is opening the eyes of his family, his Rabbi, and the broader congregation to a new way of seeing this rite of passage. One that doesn’t feel rote, and reinvigorates a sense of a person’s responsibility to his community and the community to him.

Learning from experts, other families that share our experiences, and our children helps us as parents to not only cope, but heal and thrive. That’s one of the biggest motivators for me when it comes to supporting other families raising kids with disabilities—the idea that we can accomplish so much more when we work together.

—Jason Lehmbeck

When Jason Lehmbeck's son, Noah, was born with a genetic condition, he pivot his serial technology entrepreneur experience into his new mission: Undivided, a technology platform to help parents of kids with disabilities live their best lives.

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The Best Kid-Friendly Things to See & Do in National Harbor

by Jamie Davis Smith

National Harbor is one of those rare places that really does have something for everyone. From kayaking the Potomac to family friendly dining at Bobby McKey’s, it’s the perfect spot for locals and out-of-towners to spend a few days exploring. Read on to learn about some of our favorite things to do and see at National Harbor!

National Harbor

Shop & Eat!
National Harbor is full of restaurants and shopping. Some highlights include Savannah's Candy Kitchen featuring old-fashioned favorites like giant caramel apples, ice cream, candy by the pound, chocolates and more. Another family-friendly choice is Bobby McKey's kids and teen shows that include food, drink and entertainment for a flat fee. There is something for everyone. Plenty of causal restaurants from fast food to pizza are available in addition to white tablecloth dining with views of the harbor. When it comes to shopping check out Build-A-Bear at National Harbor and a number of gift and clothing stores perfect for browsing. For even more shopping check out Tangier Outlets just down the street from National Harbor.

National Harbor Restaurants and Shops
Online: nationalharbor.com

Bike the Sights
Bicycles are a great way to get around National Harbor. Bring your own or rent a bike from one of the Capital Bike Share sites scattered around the harbor. Get a 30 day pass and enjoy unlimited bike rides for 30 days. That's more than enough time to explore!

Capital Bike Share
Online: capitalbikeshare.com

Boats Galore
National Harbor has a few different ways to see the sights by boat. Monumental Boat Tours is a unique way to take a tour of Maryland and Virginia. Kids five and up and join an adult on a two-person boat to take a curated tour of the Potomac. This two-hour self-guided tour will take you past Mount Vernon, a lighthouse, Fort Washington and more. No boating experience is necessary but you may get wet! If you would rather have someone else steering the boat rent a FloatBoat360 for two hours. Up to seven can cruise the Potomac with a guide. Be sure to pack snacks! FloatBoat360 comes complete with a table, cooler and chairs for a leisurely ride.

Boating at National Harbor
Online: nationalharbor.com/play-locations/boating-in-dc

Watersports Adventures
National Harbor is a great destination for water activities. Rent a single or double kayak or an adorable duck-shaped paddle boat. Kids eight and up can try their hand a stand up paddle board or hydrobike. Any of these are a great way to add some adventure to a trip to National Harbor and try something new.

Boating In DC
Online: boatingindc.com

 

Gaylord National

Make it a Staycation
Gaylord National is a destination itself. For locals it's the perfect place for a staycation. For those visiting from out of town, it's a family-friendly place to use as home base while visiting the DC area. Gaylord National features an indoor pool, soaring atrium with nightly light shows, a family-friendly rooftop lounge and more. It's the perfect jumping off spot to explore the rest of National Harbor no matter where you live! Insider Tip: Check for seasonal events hosted by Gaylord National. Past events have included a pop-up 80s themed lounge, an outdoor light display, breakfast with the Grinch, and an annual winter wonderland featuring larger than life ice displays. Even if you don't stay at Gaylord you can still enjoy much of what the hotel has to offer.

Gaylord National
Online: marriott.com

Experience the Capital Wheel
The Capital Wheel offers unique soaring views of the National Mall, National Harbor and Alexandria. Families get their own climate-controlled gondola. If you are afraid of heights you can ride with confidence knowing that there is a panic button in case you need to get off quickly. However, the ride is so smooth and the views are so impressive that you will probably forget your fears and enjoy the ride.  Even if you don't go for a ride be sure to look for Capital Wheel at night when it is illuminated and lights up the harbor. Insider tip: Check the Capital Wheel's website for information about their VIP car featuring leather seats and periodic specials.

The Capital Wheel
Online: thecapitalwheel.com

Ride the Carousel 
One of the best kept secrets in the DC area is the carousel at National Harbor. For under $10.00 kids get unlimited rides for the entire day on National Harbor's gorgeous Americana-themed carousel. Even better, parents ride free! Insider tip: The carousel is located within a pavilion that also has a playground and a shaded picnic area prefect for snacks.

National Harbor Carousel
Online: thecapitalwheel.com/carousel

Visit the Beach
National Harbor really does have it's very own beach. While you can't go swimming there is sand galore for kids to dig. National Harbor's beach also features the iconic statue The Awakening. Kids love climbing on the statue's 70' hands emerging from the sand. This is a great spot to spot a beautiful sunset over the harbor or to watch the Capital Wheel.

Water Lantern Festival

Look for Special Events
There is always something special happening at National Harbor! It's a popular spot for annual events like the UniverSoul Circus, ICE!, the Water Lantern Festival, outdoor movies, story time, outdoor fitness classes and more. Be sure to check out National Harbor's special events page to get the most out of your visit.

National Harbor Special Events
Online: www.nationalharbor.com/events

—Jamie Davis Smith

featured photo: Toddlin’ Across America 

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Watch the Trailer for “Doogie Kamealoha, M.D.,” a Fresh Take on a Classic Show

by Sarah Shebek

Remember Doogie Howser, M.D., the show that gave Neil Patrick Harris his big break and had us all cheering for a teen doctor? Disney has reimagined that concept for the next generation with Doogie Kamealoha, M.D. The original series premieres September 8 on Disney+ and the trailer is available to watch now!

In Hawaii, 16-year-old Lahela “Doogie” Kamealoha is juggling a budding medical career and the ups and downs of teenage life. Fortunately she’s supported by her close-knit (and hilarious) group of family and friends! The show is shot on location in O’ahu and it’s created and executive produced by Kourtney Kang (How I Met Your Mother, Fresh Off the Boat).

Peyton Elizabeth Lee stars as Lahela and the show promises a number of top guest stars. Keep your eyes out for Margaret Cho, Randall Park, Jae Suh Park, Max Greenfield and more.

“Thirty years ago, a young medical prodigy took the world by storm and left a lasting impact on pop culture,” said Ricky Strauss, president, Content and Marketing, Disney+. “Kourtney and the team at 20th Television have created a very modern take on this beloved property which will resonate with our global Disney+ audience. We can’t wait to introduce the world to the new Doogie!”

New episodes will drop every Wednesday on Disney+. We’re excited to watch a classic show revamped for Gen Z! For all the latest Disney+ drops, make sure you check out our ongoing coverage.

—Sarah Shebek

Featured image courtesy of Justin Stephens, Disney

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Captain Your Own Boat Down the River with Chicago Electric Boats

by Maria Chambers

What a wicked summer it’s been for weather, Chicago! It’s been quite the roller coaster, but no complaints, we’ve been outside and taking advantage of our city being open. We have just a couple more months to enjoy boating season, so make a plan to get on the water. While there are several tour companies that narrate a memorable trip along our waterways and teach a bit of Chicago architectural history, sometimes you want to steer the course yourself. Read on to learn how Chicago Electric Boat hands over the captain’s hat and allows you to do just that.

About Chicago Electric Boats

Operating since 2012, Chicago Electric Boat Company is Chicago's largest self-guided river boat rental operator. They operate with safety as a core focus, as owner Ron Silvia is a member of the Chicago Harbor Safety Committee and President of Downtown Docks and is a driver in the city's exciting waterfront developments.

Boat Options Available

Their fleet includes eco-friendly private electric boats that create one-of-a-kind opportunities to explore our world-famous waterfront, history-making iconic skyscrapers and moveable bridges from a unique eye-level vantage point.

Renters will find five boat types: all-weather Duffy Boats with fully covered seating areas, Pontoon Boats with adjustable canopies, partially covered Donut Boats that offer 360-degree views of the city, a Vintage Yacht and refurbished 1950s-style Retro Boats for when you want to feel like a movie star.

Each dock has different options available, so which boat type you want to rent will determine the pick-up and drop-off location.

New This Year: Cycleboats

Enjoy a mashup of a boat ride and a bike cruise on a Chicago Cycleboat. Hop on a bike seat set around a table and cycle at your own pace with your friends. The whole boat works together to power the boat as a captain navigates the boat down Chicago River. No worries though, there is a back up electric motor in case you lose steam. 

Where to Rent

Chicago Electric Boat has four different docking stations, with different boating options available at each: Rockwell on the River (3057 N. Rockwell St., Avondale), Marina City (300 N. State St., Near North) or Chicago Riverwalk/City Winery (11 W. Riverwalk S., Loop) and Chicago Water Plaza/Sweet Home Gelato (151 W. Wacker, Loop).

Cost to Rent

The prices vary based on which boat you're interested in and which pick-up location, but prices start at $160/hour. Private cycleboats can be rented starting at $550.

Rather Relax and Drive?

If you'd rather be a back-seat driver vs captain the ship, you can choose to enlist the assistance of a licensed captain or accredited tour guide for an additional charge.

Extras for Kids

Kids receive complimentary activity books to keep them busy while cruising.

Other Helpful Bits

  • Required US Coast Guard safety gear is stocked on each vessel
  • The boating season runs April-November
  • Each boat is equipped with a radio and plug-in, so bring along a device to add a soundtrack to your day
  • You're encouraged to pack food and drinks to fully enjoy the experience
  • There is no age limited, but kids under the age of 13 must wear life vests that are provided at all times
  • To make the best use of your time on the boat, check out the recommended routes and decide which parts of the Chicago River you'd like to prioritize
  • Stops along the river are not permitted, other than the dock you retrieved your boat
  • Bathrooms, or heads, are not on board any of the boats but you are welcome to return to the dock to utilize the facilities

    • Online: chicagoelectricboats.com

    — Maria Chambers

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    Trash the To-Do List & Do This Instead

    By Jordan Manfredi

    Photo: Jordan Manfredi

    I listen to way too many podcasts—the ones that make you feel more aware, upset, unsure and fascinated. I meditate sometimes and I drink enough water. I’m definitely putting in the work to try to remember who I am, in addition to being a mom, a wife and a business owner.

    My “to-do” list, like most caregivers, is long. It lives in my phone and on my mind and if I forget it, it pings me back into submission. It keeps me busy—doing and going, going and doing my way to a satisfactory life. And it makes me feel 82% numb and substantially less alive.

    The routine dulls my senses and for a not-new human like myself, it bores me to death sometimes. Sincere gratitude aside, being a mom of young kids is majority monotonous and minority former-self fun. Today, as I was driving home from a meeting, I realized that I had a full tank of gas, my suitcase and not one but two credit cards. I thought, “I could just get away for the weekend, run off and be alone for a full 48 hours. The kids would be fine, my husband would understand.” In fact, he was the one that told me, “I can’t make you happy.”

    I wanted to drive far away today and to leave my problems behind. The idea perculated fuzzy in my head, as my fomer-fun self suddenly perked up, like a breath of fresh air had entered my lungs and was pumping life back into me. But as regularly programmed, I instead reverted back to my “to-do” list and pushed the novel-yet-non-sensical idea aside.

    Annoyed, I drove back into the mind-blowing experience of modern motherhood. I was driving myself numb and not doing anything about it. Why? Because motherhood is unconditional and transformative. It’s damn beautiful and in that beauty is also a breakdown, an experience of the soul. And because as mothers, we’re trained not to rock the boat. Heck, we are the boat keeping everything afloat.

    Deep inside my sticky sense of resentment, hand-dipped in disappointment, I heard my husband say it again inside my  head: “I can’t make you happy. You have to do that yourself.” He was right. This, “But what happened to my life?” baggage wasn’t his or theirs to carry. It was mine, all mine. There was no one left to blame. So now what?

    I noticed a motorcyclist driving in front of me and he was masterfully pulling up his front wheel and rocking a wheely. I was at once, in awe and in admiration and also moderately concerned for his health and well-being. We exchanged a thumbs up as I drove by, congratulating him on his fearless feat and in that flash of a moment, I saw a twinkle in his eyes. They were sparkling like sunlight on the water. They were eyes of someone who was happy in that moment. It was that undeniable look you have when you’re doing something that makes you feel alive. When you’re not asking for anyone’s permission to live out loud and disappointing the world by not caring what anyone else thinks. Carl Jung calls it, individualizing, a way of being open-hearted to life.
    That’s what I’m looking for. That look, that feeling.

    I then have another idea and refuse to let my “to-do” list dictate my decision. I ask Siri,  “How far is Coney Island from here?” She answered, “12 miles.” I veered my car off and decide to take matters into my own hands. To dedcidedly be happy by doing something that actually makes me happy. It was pretty simple: I was going to hit the coasters, because I love riding roller coasters. I took myself on the date night I’ve been so desperately missing and I ended up riding the Thunderbolt front row next to a mom and her daughter. We held hands and screamed our heads off. When I picked up my souvenior picture to remember this version of me that I’ve longed for, I noticed something in my eyes looking back at me. It was that same shine. There’s the me underneath the “to-do” lists and it’s just waiting to come out if only we can allow ourselves to unappolgetically do whatever makes us happy, no outside assistance required.

    I’m a beauty hunter, a dreamer, a learner and a doer. I'm also a mama to 2 wild ones (Lily Love + Bear). As a self proclaimed forest fairy + forest school founder, I believe in nature and magic and know that growth happens when you step outside of your comfort zone.

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    MOHAI’s Newest Exhibit & 5 More Places to Explore in South Lake Union

    by Allison Sutcliffe

    If you’re in South Lake Union, a trip to MOHAI is always on the day’s docket. With the opening of their newest exhibit Da Vinci—Inventions, it’s the perfect time to plan a day in this walkable community. From exhibit tips to nearby activities and eateries, here are six great reasons to play in SLU soon.

    Da Vinci—Inventions at MOHAI

    If your kids aren’t fans of da Vinci’s yet, they will be after visiting MOAHI’s newest exhibit that opened just this past weekend. It highlights the ultimate Renaissance man’s many inventions, and features the work of Grande Experience, a group of Italian artisans who brought da Vinci’s drawings to life. They scoured over 6,000 pages of his personal codices, written in mirror-image no less, to get the info they needed. One of the first things you’ll see when you walk through the doors are the codices themselves (try your hand at reading them) and a secret message scrawled in red that looks a bit like abstract art. We bet your kids will figure it out (hint: let’s just say it’s as easy as A-B-C)!

    Wandering through the exhibit, kids will marvel at the imaginative ways da Vinci applied his observations of the natural world to problems that needed solving and limitations of the time. Have your kiddos keep an eye out for bird wings, duck feet and other animal elements in his creations. The fantastic displays range from costumes and musical instruments to flying machines and pop-up bridges for foot soldiers (that totally work!). There are even a few intriguing inventions designed to help humans explore underwater that are easily mistaken for space suits and flying saucers. Although much of the exhibit is for eyes only, there’s a row of “touchables” young kids will love. They can test out pulleys and gears that showcase some pretty basic physics concepts that’ll get them thinking.

    Save the date: This summer, MOHAI will host two Water Wonders outdoor workshops for families on Saturday, August 28 and September 18, from 2 -3:30 p.m. The workshops will be held on the MOHAI terrace and use da Vinci's inspiration to give kids a chance to explore how we move over, under and through water. Kids will move from station to station making observations, taking on specific challenges and of course, getting wet as they do. Complete them all and you’ll get $5 off your next MOHAI visit.

    Good to know: Although the rest of the museum exhibits are open, the Kidstruction Zone on the 3rd floor remains closed for now. Also don’t forget about Free First Thursday at the museum, where everyone gets in for free from 5-8 p.m.

    Dates: Jul. 31, 2021-Jan. 3, 2022
    Hours: Thurs.-Mon., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Thurs. in Jul. & Aug., 10 a.m.-8 p.m.
    Cost: $22/Adult; Free for kids 14 & under

    MOAHI
    860 Terry Ave. N.
    Seattle, WA
    206-324-1126
    Event details 

    Play at Lake Union Park

    Just outside MOHAI is Lake Union Park, and in the summertime, it’s a welcome grassy mecca for city kids. Start at the splash pad just outside the Center for Wooden Boats’ Education Center and you may not have to do much more than that to keep your kiddos happy. Just remember finding a shady spot is a challenge so bring plenty of sunscreen and full water bottles to keep everyone content on sunny days. The boat pond is another hot spot for families, and although the Center for Wooden Boats’ pond boat rental program is on hold for now, families can bring their own model boat to try on the pond. Then there’s the secret beach just over the bridge. While everyone else heads to Alki or Golden Gardens, you and the kids can wade in the shallow waters, launch kayaks or SUPs or just watch the sea planes take off from nearby Kenmore Air. It’s not a shady spot, so bring a sun tent if you plan to spend serious time there.

    Visit the Center for Wooden Boats

    Bring your little sailors to the Center for Wooden Boats to get your fill of wooden boats on display and on the water. Whether you wander through the offerings at the Wagner Education Center or stroll the docks to see what’s being restored or rented, it’s a dry land excursion every boat lover needs to take. Families can rent sailboats of all sizes for a fee when the Center is open, or stick to a free peapod boat rental for simple way to explore Lake Union.

    Hours: Weds.-Sun., 11 a.m.-7 p.m.
    Cost: Free

    1010 Valley St.
    Seattle, WA
    206-382-2628
    Online: cwb.org

    Ride & Slide

    Be sure to bring your scooters, trikes and balance bikes when you visit the new exhibit. Right outside the doors of MOHAI is one of the city’s best bike paths—the Chesihaud Lake Union Loop. Ride it over to the little playground that’s just beyond the Center for Wooden Boats' shelter. It’s another secret spot that lets families find a change of scenery without going far. If you’re up for it, visit the Kraken Team Store in Chandler’s Cove, just beyond the playground—look for the flags. It’s the only place you can grab a Kraken sippy cup that, let’s face it, your baby needs.

    Take a Boat Ride or Tour

    Kylie Kirkland

    Ice Cream Cruise
    If you see the exhibit on the weekends, add a sweet cruise around Lake Union before or after your visit. This narrated tour lasts about 45 minutes and includes fun and fascinating stories about our fair city. Sure you’ll see the houseboat from Sleepless in Seattle, but you’ll also find out about the busiest drawbridge in the world, where Boeing was born and how Gas Works Park went from a gas tech plant to a favorite kite flying destination. A variety of sweet ice cream treats are available for purchase once you’re on board, and doggies are welcome.

    Hours: Sat., sailings at 11 a.m., noon & 1 p.m. through Aug. 28; Sun., on the hour from 11 a.m.-5 p.m., year round
    Cost: $15/adult; $10/kids, 3-12; $4/kids, 2 & under

    860 Terry Ave. N.
    Seattle, WA
    206-422-0036
    Event details 

    Tour the Seattle Fireboat Duwamish
    Weekends are also when families can climb aboard the historic fireboat Duwamish for a tour. It’s the second oldest fireboat in the country and you’ll find it docked at the Historic Ships Wharf just behind MOHAI. If you can, plan to visit on Sunday when it’s Family Funday. In addition to the usual tour, kids will find coloring pages, crafts, puzzles and more.

    Hours: Sat. & Sun., 11 a.m.-3 p.m., through Sept.
    Cost: $5/group, suggested donation
    Event details 

    Good to know: The historic Virginia V is currently in the shipyard for repairs, but has plans to return to the waters outside MOHAI this fall when tours resume.

    Play Mini Golf

    If an easy lunch and a round of mini golf sounds like a great way to get out of the sun, head across the street to Flatstick Pub. The pizza is fresh and served up quickly (especially on weekdays) and the Ryan Henry Ward-themed, nine-hole mini golf course in back is irresistible to kids (If we’re honest, the 12-foot Sasquatch is pretty irresistible to parents, too). You don’t need a reservation to play, although you can make one online.

    Good to know: Take advantage Pizza Happy Hour, week days from 3-6 p.m. Pizzas are just $10 and you can still get a round of golf in before they go 21-plus. 

    Hours: Sun.-Thurs., 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Fri. & Sat., 11 a.m.-1 a.m.; 21+ after 7 p.m., daily
    Cost: $8/person
     
    609 Westlake Ave. N.
    Seattle, WA
    206-258-4989
    Online: flatstickpub.com/south-lake-union

    —Allison Sutcliffe, story and photos (unless noted)

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    River Rats: 5 Kid-Friendly Rivers to Tube & Raft Near Atlanta

    by Phebe Wahl

    Atlanta is surrounded by some of the country’s finest whitewater, and we’ve rounded up the most family-friendly runs around. And while all of the rivers listed below are serviced by river outfitters who can take care of every detail of your trip, it’s always a good idea to review some river safety guidelines before you go. Keep reading for some of the state’s most family-friendly rafting options, below.

    Chattahoochee River, Metro

    Shoot the Hooch via Yelp

    Odds are, your parents had a wild time shooting the ‘Hooch sometime in the late 70s or early 80s, and some of their memories may not have involved an actual boat. And while the Hooch is still the closest, easiest, and coldest water around, the wild weekends of yesteryear have been tamed considerably. It’s good, clean(ish), family fun for rafters ages 5 and older.

    Keep in Mind: The Chattahoochee is regulated by the release of water from Buford Dam, and can quickly change from relatively low water levels to fast-flowing rapids. You can call ahead to find out the water release schedule (770-945-1466), and be sure to check out average float times here.

    Make It Easy: Let Chattahoochee Outfitters set you up with the appropriate watercraft for your group, drive you to the put-in location, and feed you (nothing beats concession food after a long day on the water) when you float back to the headquarters at Azalea Park in Roswell.

    Chattahoochee Outfitters
    203 Azalea Dr.
    Roswell
    770-650-1008
    Online: shootthehooch.com

    Chattahoochee River, Helen

    Erin R. via Yelp

    Alpine Helen is home to some of the coolest and most popular tubing adventures in the state. Surround yourself with refreshing forest scenery on a lively tubing trip down the Chattahoochee River. You'll float right through the middle of Helen and have optional waterslides along the way.

    Keep in Mind: Helen is Georgia's weird and wonderful Alpine village, which is quite a destination on the weekends. If you'd rather keep to the privacy of the forest animals, this rafting adventure may not be for you.

    Make It Easy: Take a one or two-hour-long trip with Cool River Tubing and also enjoy their aerial park, open seven days a week from Memorial Day to Labor Day.

    Cool River Tubing
    590 Edelweiss Strasse
    Helen, GA 30545
    800-896-4595
    Online: coolrivertubing.com

     

    Chestatee River, Dahlonega

    Yarbroug3434 .. via Yelp

    If you're looking for a shorter option, check out the Chestatee river trip in beautiful Dahlonega. You can book kayak or tube trips, and while tubing trips only last around 30 minutes, you can walk 10 minutes back to the launch and ride the river as many times as you'd like for only $5.

    Keep in Mind: The minimum age of tubers is 4. Keep in mind the tube has to be carried back up the trail.

    Make It Easy: Dahlonega outfitters Chestatee River Adventures offers trips from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend.

    Chestatee River Adventures
    2718 South Chestatee St.
    ​Dahlonega, GA 30533
    770-540-9950
    Online: chestateeriveradventures.com

    Toccoa River, McCaysville

    Daniel U. via Yelp

    Don’t let the fact that the Olympic rafting competition was held just upstream on the Ocoee deter you from getting your feet wet in these hallowed waters. You can elect to mosey down the river on a gentle half-day float on the Toccoa with the littles ages 5 and older.

    Keep in Mind: This river runs through Tennessee and Georgia but has two names depending on the state. In Tennessee, the rapids are referred to as the Ocoee, while in Georgia, the name changes into the Toccoa River (and generally has calmer waters).

    Make it Easy: Call the Rolling Thunder River Company to take care of all your needs, from selecting the right craft to hiring a guide to steer you through the more daunting waters.

    Ocoee River/Toccoa River Centers
    20 Hughes Street
    McCaysville, GA 30555
    706-492-5720
    Online: rollingthunderriverco.com

     

    The Chattooga River, Mountain Rest

    Christa T. via Yelp

    While it's not as dramatic as the depiction in Deliverance, the Chattooga isn’t a lazy river float. In fact, children under 8 aren’t allowed in the boat, and you’ll find that the adventure on the Chattooga is less about dueling banjos and more about keeping yourself in the boat.

    Keep in Mind: The Chattooga was federally protected in 1974 so if your goal is to see some breathtakingly undeveloped scenery, this is the river for you. However, undeveloped means undeveloped. Don’t plan on stopping off to grab some ice for your cooler along the way.

    Make it Easy: Contact the Nantahala Outdoor Center to set up your guided trip, and ease any lingering post-Deliverance jitters you may have.

    NOC Chattooga River
    851A Chattooga Ridge Rd.
    Mountain Rest, SC
    864-647-9014
    Online: noc.com

    Featured image by Angga Indratama on Unsplash.

    —Shelley Massey

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    Discover the Not-So-Obvious Spots to Hike, Camp & Fish Near Chicago

    by Lindsay Welbers

    Starved Rock State Park is a popular spot for campers and anglers, and it’s no surprise why. The Illinois River has some of the best fishing opportunities and the park’s beautiful setting and proximity to Chicago make it an attractive destination for daytrippers—or a quick weekend away. In recent years, however, Starved Rock’s visitor numbers have surged. When the park reaches capacity, traffic can back up for miles, leaving adventure-seekers stuck in their cars instead of casting a line or taking in the scenery. Read on for equally dazzling places to enjoy nature without getting stuck in gridlock traffic.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/CEqPL6jpp7H/?hidecaption=true

    Lowden State Park

    Located just 90 minutes from Chicago, Lowden State Park has 80 campsites with access to electricity and a shower building. There are another 46 primitive campsites, for a more rustic experience, in a separate campground. This park sits right on the Rock River, which has an average depth of about 3 feet at the height of summer. Rent a canoe or kayak from local outfitter White Pelican if you don't own your own boat, but there are docks located along the riverbank where the public can cast a line. Check out the dock by Margaret Fuller Island for a great view.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/CBZSFlXDMqV/?hidecaption=true

    Hennepin Canal

    The Hennepin Canal is an ideal spot for families willing to trade amenities for solitude. The Hennepin Canal includes nine campgrounds, 150 miles of trails and some of the most abundant stocks of fish you’ll find in Illinois. All campsites are first-come-first-served, have no showers or running water, but toilets are available at each campground. Fishing on the canal is allowed 24 hours a day and trawlers should have no trouble pulling out bass, catfish, walleye, crappie and bluegill. Visitors who prefer to cast a line from their boat will find 29 miles of portage-free canoeing along the feeder canal from Rock Falls.

    Spring Lake Park

    Spring Lake Park outside Macomb has an impeccably maintained campground, with great amenities, and 6 miles of shoreline to cast from. Spring Lake is stocked with blue catfish, muskellunge, bass, bluegill and crappie. Campers have 102 campsites to choose from, with space for either tents, RVs, or cabins. An on-site bait shop rents pontoon boats, canoes, kayaks, paddleboards, paddleboats, and fishing poles. Within the park itself, there are over 12 miles of biking and hiking trails, so you’ll have plenty to do if the fish just aren’t biting.

    Chain o’ Lakes State Park

    Located about 60 miles north of Chicago, Chain o' Lakes State Park is great for families looking for a variety of activities. Camping is abundant, with 151 sites and three cabins. A concession stand rents boats and sells bait. Anglers will find bluegill, bass, walleye, crappie, muskie, northern pike, bullhead, and catfish. This park lives up to its name, with three lakes and the Fox River within the park itself. That means the shorelines get marshy and most fishing is done from either on a boat or designated fishing piers. Other activities at Chain o’ Lakes include hose rentals, hunting, and over 10 miles of hiking trails. There is even an accessible picnic area with a quarter-mile hiking trail, that will accommodate anyone with mobility concerns.

    Nauvoo State Park

    Nauvoo State Park is a stunning and peaceful place. This park is small, just 148 acres on the banks of the Mississippi River. It includes a 13-acre lake with one mile of shoreline, stocked with bass, catfish and bluegill. There are no boat docks or rentals, so be prepared to cast from the shoreline or use the primitive boat launch. Campers will find 105 camping spaces, a few short hiking paths and a playground area. Visit the in-park museum to learn about the town’s history as a stop for French explorers and as a settlement for early Mormons.

    — Lindsay Welbers

    Lindsay Welbers is the author of “Chicago Transit Hikes: A guide to getting out in nature without a car.” She lives on the Northwest side of Chicago and writes the ultralight camping blog “Third Coast Hikes” which encourages Chicagoans to explore their backyards, especially the corners they may not have considered before.

    Featured photo: visionpic.net via Pexels

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