This Over-the-Top Glamping Experience Is Not Your Average Tent-Out

by Erica LoopApril 29, 2019

Forget a fancy foray into the woods: the newest trend in luxury camping takes glamping to the next level—and your own backyard (literally). With Glampique’s designs you can turn your yard into a space that rivals even the most luxurious of hotels! But it comes at a price.

If you happen to have an extra $20,000 that’s absolutely burning a hole in your pocket, you can purchase a completely furnished tent from Glampique. While Glampique’s price tag isn’t exactly on par with the pop up tent you bought your tot at Walmart, it’s less expensive than most RVs/trailers and cabins (and even many tiny homes). And bonus, it comes fabulously furnished.

Glampique’s founder/CEO David Levine said, about his company’s lavishly luxe products, “Glampique furnished tents are an ideal way to connect with nature while still enjoying the elevated experience of a boutique hotel.”

Each tent comes with a king-sized bed (with a mattress and bedding), wood and steel dresser, velvet and steel couch, velvet and steel ottomans, polished brass tables, Anker cell phone charger, mirror, Simple Human garbage can, flashlight and fire extinguisher. The $20,000 price tag also includes delivery and installation (in the continental United States). Visit Glampique’s website here for more information on ordering.

—Erica Loop

Photos: Courtesy of Glampique

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Researchers May Have Found a Fast-Acting Test for Preeclampsia & Here’s How It Works

by Erica LoopApril 26, 2019

Preeclampsia impacts between two and eight percent of pregnancies, according to the March of Dimes. The condition, which causes elevated blood pressure and swelling, can lead to serious complications before, during or after childbirth. Researchers at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center may have found a quicker, non-invasive way to diagnose preeclampsia—potentially saving lives.

While the test is still in the trial phase and isn’t FDA-approved for use, it’s designed to identify preeclampsia accurately in three minutes. This quick-use tool would allow doctors to identify and manage the condition earlier.

photo: John Looy via Unsplash

Dr. Kara Rood, lead author of the study and maternal-fetal medicine physician at Ohio State Wexner Medical Center said, in a press statement, “Giving birth is the only cure for preeclampsia, but it can develop as early as the second trimester.” Dr. Rood went on to add, “The quicker we identify women with the condition, the better chance they have of carrying their babies to full term and having a healthy delivery.”

So how does this test work? A red dye reacts with the proteins found in the urine of pregnant women with preeclampsia. This allows doctors to definitively diagnose the condition, eliminating any guesswork. The study researchers are hoping to have the test FDA-approved for use within the next few years.

—Erica Loop

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Love Your Heart: Women Can Get Free Heart Health Screenings for Valentine’s Day

by Shahrzad WarkentinFebruary 5, 2019

Too often moms put their own heath and well-being behind the needs of their family. It’s time to make a change, Mamas, and we think February is the perfect time to stop and do something for yourself. In honor of the American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women campaign CVS will be giving free heart health screenings for women.

According to the American Heart Association, nearly 80 percent of cardiac events can be prevented, yet most women don’t know their personal stats, which are critical to determining their risk. Every Thursday and Friday, including Valentine’s Day, during the month of February, CVS will be offering no-cost heart health preventive screening at local MinuteClinics across the country.

photo: Courtesy of CVS

“Women tend to put others before themselves, but it is imperative that women make their heart health a priority. The stark reality is cardiovascular diseases continue to be a woman’s greatest health threat, claiming the lives of 1 in 3 women. But by empowering women to be aware which includes knowing your numbers move more, eat smart and manage blood pressure, we can change that fact,” said Jennifer Mieres, M.D., an American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women medical expert.

The “Know Your Numbers” heart health screenings will measure total cholesterol, HDL (good) cholesterol, blood pressure, blood sugar and body mass index to help determine if women are at an elevated risk for heart disease.

To get a free screening just download a voucher, print and bring it with you to scan at the MinuteClinic registration kiosk or you can show it using your mobile phone.

—Shahrzad Warkentin

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If Your Child Has Asthma, They Were Probably Born During This Month, Study Finds

by Shahrzad WarkentinSeptember 19, 2018

When your baby is born can have an impact on many things, like size, personality and even rates of academic success. Now you can add allergies and asthma to that list. A new study shows that babies are more likely to develop asthma when they are born during a very specific time of year.

New research has found that babies born during grass pollen season have a higher risk of developing asthma later on, however, babies who spend an entire hay fever season in the womb may be protected against the risk.

Babies born during pollen season more likely to get asthma, new study finds https://t.co/kXNbY8tKl8 pic.twitter.com/GT6ilqfFHO

— The Independent (@Independent) September 18, 2018

The grass pollen season in the U.S. typically runs from May to August, but it can begin earlier or end later depending on which region you live in. The study found that babies born during those months had elevated levels of antibodies in the blood known as immunoglobulin E (IgE). These antibodies help protect the body from viruses, bacteria and allergens. They can also help predict the onset of allergic diseases, like asthma, later in life.

While many previous studies have already shown that babies with high levels of IgE in cord blood are at greater risk of developing allergies later on, what was different and important about this particular study is that it looked at the effects of pollen exposure during pregnancy as well. The findings showed that babies who were in utero for an entire grass pollen season had lower IgE levels.

“This was a significant finding and indicates the possible development of a sensitisation barrier. However, more research needs to be done and currently we are working on studies to identify the specific risk time periods of pollen exposure during pregnancy on asthma and allergies in children,” explained Associate Professor Bircan Erbas from La Trobe University’s School of Psychology and Public Health in Melbourne.

Of course, that doesn’t mean that being born from May to August automatically means your baby will develop allergies and asthma. “The study provides new insight that could help us predict and manage diseases like asthma – which are a significant public health burden,” said Erbas. “However, it’s important to remember there are a number of factors that can determine who gets asthma or allergies. This is one piece of the puzzle.”

—Shahrzad Warkentin

Featured photo: Nita via Pexels

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Today Is Summer Sun Day

by rtstephenApril 21, 2016

Daily

Today Is Summer Sun Day

Soak it up.

Take advantage of the longer days with these games to play at twilight.

Add one or all 11 of these nation-wide summer programs
on your bucket list.

Put those extra daylight hours to good use with
an elevated take on the classic sun tea.

{ Today’s ideas brought to you by The Sun }

Just Opened: Buzz on Over to Busy Bees

by Katie BrownAugust 25, 2015

Billing itself as the only indoor playground “where everything moves, spins, or flies,” Busy Bees is NoVa’s newest indoor escape for antsy 48”-and-under tots. Cue the happy dancing by mamas, papas, and caregivers everywhere. We get it.

So Fresh and So Clean
Located in a Falls Church strip mall adjacent to a pavilion and several lunch spots, the bright white space is largely dedicated to its pristinely-cleaned play equipment—staff uses only “naturally based” Dapple products to keep germs at bay. First-timers: anticipate spending a few minutes completing a safety waiver, and be sure that you and your child are wearing socks (there are also fun pairs for sale). Adults and children under one are free; entry for each older child is $15 and includes all-day, in-and-out privileges. For parents and caregivers looking to fill the late-afternoon witching hour, weekday admission from 4 pm-5 pm is only $10.

Choices, Choices
Features include a padded jungle gym, rotating carousel suspension swing, electric see-saw, slide, blocks and puzzles space, and merry-go-round. The pièces de resistance, however, are the elevated, clear-bottomed trampoline and a net-enclosed balloon room. Shrieks and laughter abound.

And…Break!
Outside of the safety latch-locking half-wall surrounding the primary play space are padded stools for break time (there are a few snacks available for purchase, but outside food is also permitted) and several suspended pod swings. Cubby holes for shoes and personal belongings line the walls. Toward the back are bathrooms (ask a staff member for diapers or wipes if you forgot your stash at home) and a station with complimentary tea and coffee. There is also a party room available for rent; prices range from $220-$550. Stay tuned: The party room will soon host ballet and Music Together classes.

Busy Bees
6110 D Arlington Blvd. (Falls Church, Va)
(703) 462-9445
Online: busybeesplay.com
Open: Mon-Fri, 9 am-5 pm; Sat-Sun, 10 am-5 pm

Have you been to Busy Bees? Tell us about your trip in the comments section!

—Katie Brown

Photos: Casey Gammon, Bluebees Photography

Secrets of The 606: What’s Hot on the Bloomingdale Trail

by Christa ReedJune 9, 2015

It’s the most anticipated green space since Maggie Daley Park. And like downtown’s massive playground and skating ribbon, Bloomingdale Trail does not disappoint. This 2.7-mile biking-walking-running-scooting path is part of an elevated trail and park system (commonly called “The 606”) that cuts through Wicker Park, Bucktown, Logan Square and Humboldt Park on the former railroad line connecting those neighborhoods. It just opened after a decade of planning. Here are the secrets of this urban oasis perfect for families (and dogs, too!).

photo: Kiran Advani

Here’s the Skinny …
The trail is paved and elevated, allowing for awesome city views. There are 12 access points on it (all with ramps perfects for strollers, scooters and bikes) and four of them are located next to ground-level parks (at Damen, Milwaukee, Ashland and Albany). If you planned to walk the trail and bike envy kicks in, there are Divvy stations just north of the Marshfield, Damen, Western and Albany access points. Dogs are allowed and especially welcome at the dog park at the Damen access point. Come ready to be inspired — everyone is talking about the trail’s convenience, beauty and how it will spur families to get healthy exercise together.

photo: Christa Reed

For the Kids …
There’s some really fantastic El train watching on the bridge near Winnebago (close to the Milwaukee access point). Fences are high enough to keep little ones in, and the water fountains are low enough to keep them hydrated. Plan a playdate at the Damen access point where there is a large sitting space with benches and Churchill Field, a baseball field at ground level. Or hit the the playground at Yates Elementary between the Humboldt and California access points (shown below). When CPS is out for the summer, this is a great park that’s close to the trail’s halfway point and perfect for your little climber. You can also find fun right off the trail at Cat & Mouse Game Store (at the Milwaukee access point) or Mindy’s Hot Chocolate for a snack (at the Damen access point).

photo: Christa Reed

Be Aware …
On our trip down the trail, we didn’t see any public restrooms or garbage cans, and parking was scarce. And the foliage is new so it’s going to take some time before there’s any legitimate shade from the trees. If you plan on taking small children there, be aware that although it’s pretty well fenced-in, there are still some unfinished drop-off spots (most notably near access points).

The path itself is smooth, but not flat. So if you’re there with your jogging stroller, be prepared for some hills. It’s not as wide as the Lakeshore Path that snakes by the Museum Campus, but does have water fountains and a rubber border. Also, be mindful of children on bikes; some have no been briefed yet on the “on-you-left” protocol.

photo: Christa Reed

Overall, while not finished, Bloomingdale Trail beautiful and a true asset to the city. Go now — and often — while you can still take in the delightful smell of new mulch and community spirit!

For more information on Bloomingdale Trail/The 606, go to the606.org.

Have you visited this awesome new attraction yet? Let us know what you think in the Comments!

— Christa Reed

Outtasight!: Hidden New York for Kids

by Mimi O'ConnorDecember 31, 2014

You know that one of the best things about this city is that no matter how long you’ve lived here, it can still surprise you. Your kids think they’ve seen it all? Try taking them to one of these undercover, out of the way, or hiding-in-plain-sight destinations. Some are old, some are new — but all are super cool in one way or another. Plus: they’re either cheap or just plain free to experience.

Burger Joint at Le Parker Meridien

Perfectly acceptable as a destination in and of itself, or a genius lunch option before or after a Midtown excursion, Burger Joint has a lot of things going for it: it’s unexpected and incongruous, it’s literally sort of hidden and it serves delicious grub. Stroll into the lobby of the swank Le Parker Meridien and look for the neon burger. Follow the sign’s red arrow around the corner and you’ll find yourself in an old school, grungy-in-the-best-way (and likely fairly packed) restaurant. The name pretty much says it all, but tasty burgers and fries are the fare here, and you can also get a milkshake or a beer if you’re so moved. Posters for movies and television shows and lots of graffiti from past patrons cover the walls, and the crowds (expect to wait to order at the counter and perhaps for a table) are part of the experience.

119 W. 56th St.
Midtown West
212-708-7414
Online: parkermeridien.com

photo: via Joe Loong on Flickr

The New York Earth Room

Sure, The New York Earth Room might elicit the reaction of, “That was weird”, but it’s also an experience the kids likely won’t forget any time soon, precisely for that reason. Yet another offbeat find secreted away in a tony New York neighborhood (this time, Soho) The New York Earth room is actually an art installation created for the Dia Art Foundation by Minimalist and Land artist Walter De Maria. It is, as the title implies, a room full of earth — AKA dirt. Lots of it. (The raw numbers: 280,000 pounds, covering 3,600 square feet, and measuring 22 inches high.) The good news is, visitors can’t actually touch the dirt, so you don’t need t worry about kids leaving covered in soil. Adding to the impressive nature of the piece is that it is located on the second floor of its Wooster Street home. Wild and wacky, the installation is a great way to show kids that art isn’t necessarily always painted and in a frame, and to pose the question of: what makes something “art” anyway? (Not sold on the idea? There’s no risk to check it out: it’s free.)

141 Wooster St., Bell 2B
Soho
212-989-5566
Online: www.diaart.org

photo: Mark W. via Yelp

The Whispering Gallery at Grand Central Terminal

Don’t ask us to explain the exact physics of it all (parabolics?) we just know it’s cool. Located on the dining concourse level of Grand Central Terminal just outside the famed Oyster Bar & Restaurant, The Whispering Gallery is an architectural feature that would be right a home in a spy novel or romance story, enabling someone to hear a whisper from all the way across the bustling passageway. To experience the phenomenon in action, one person should stand facing one corner of the space, while another stands facing the opposite diagonal corner. When one person speaks in a normal tone, they can be heard by the other with no problem at all. (Of course, this makes The Whispering Gallery a popular place for marriage proposals, but you could also employ it to tell someone they’re going to Disneyland or getting that new scooter they’ve been eyeing.) In the spring, head to the Brooklyn Botanic Garden to try out the Osborne Garden “Whispering Benches” which, thanks to similar properties, also support covert conversations.

Grand Central Terminal
89 E. 42nd St.
(212) 340-2583
Online: grandcentralterminal.com

photo: Markus N. via Yelp

The Elevated Acre

Next time you and the family are tooling around the Financial District and feeling overwhelmed by the urban jungle, head to 55 Water Street. Hop on the escalators for a quick ride and emerge in a hidden oasis of greenery and calm among the skyscrapers. The Elevated Acre is a popular spot for the area’s office workers looking for a peaceful spot to lunch, but it’s also a place for picnics, lawn games, and general maxing and relaxing. The cushy AstroTurf ensures the “lawn” is a verdant green at all times, and plantings of hydrangea and annual flowers add color. The out of the way gem also provides great views of the East River, Brooklyn Bridge and more. Yet another reason to visit this urban park?: You’ll find electrical outlets under some of the benches, so if your phone needs a charge, you can plug in and chill out here.

55 Water St.
Financial District
212-963-7027
Online: 55water.com

photo: via Brian Jin M. on Yelp

The abandoned City Hall subway stop

All it takes is a swipe of a Metrocard to go back in time and see some of the glory of old New York. Originally the starting point of the city’s first subway line, the City Hall station, built in 1904, is considered one of the finest ever created in the system. Its features include stained glass skylights, brass lamps, arches of colored Guastavino tiles and an elegant curving tunnel, the last of which is responsible for the stop’s closure — it couldn’t accommodate the new, longer trains introduced in 1945. To see the abandoned station, hop on the southbound 6 train and stay on it at the Brooklyn Bridge stop, the “end of the line.” The train will then make a turnaround to head back uptown, and that’s when you can catch a glimpse of the past. If you want to actually walk the platform, the Transit Museum offers tours for members.

Online: web.mta.info

photo: via Salim Virgi on Flickr

58 Joralemon Street

Do we think this merits a trip on its own? Probably not. But it’s a worthy diversion on a day that includes a trip to Brooklyn Bridge Park or the Brooklyn Heights Promenade. Yet another “hidden” structure from those sneaky folks at the MTA, this nondescript Greek revival townhouse does its best to deflect attention. But the building has a few “tells”, the most noticeable (and suspicious) is that its facade contains no windows — just glass backed by ominous, black rectangles. (The door’s keyhole is not the standard domestic hardware, either.) Surprise: it’s not a house at all, but a disguised subway evacuation tunnel and ventilator.

58 Joralemon St., between Willow and Hicks St.
Online: google.com/maps

photo: via ambient on Flickr

Do you have a favorite secret spot in NYC? Share it with us in the comments below!

—Mimi O’Connor

12 Bay Area Museums You’ve Never Visited

by Amber GuetebierFebruary 28, 2014

Maybe you’ve heard of some of these museums, but we bet you haven’t yet explored these hidden gems with your kids. These small, local museums are an easy (and cheap) way to find adventure in your own backyard. Keep in mind that many of the museums on this list are staffed by volunteers so it’s always a good idea to call ahead to confirm opening hours. Flip through the gallery to begin your adventure.

The Cable Car Barn & Powerhouse, SF

This museum makes you feel like a tourist in your own town, with an elevated viewing area to see the winding machinery for the cables as well as a sneak-peak at where the actual cables leave the barn into the streets below. It’s full of cable car history, historic photos, gears, levers, wheels, and an adorable gift shop.

Hours: Apr. 1-Sep. 20, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.; Oct. 1-Mar. 31, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day
Cost: Free
Ages: All Ages

1201 Mason St., San Francisco, Ca 94108 (sfcablecar.com/barn.html)

Photo credit: Michelle S. via Yelp

What’s your favorite hidden museum in the Bay Area? Let us know in the comments below!

—Amber Guetebier

Just Opened: The Largest Indoor Play & Trampoline Park You’ve Ever Seen

by Kristina MoyJanuary 14, 2013

Dodgeball and basketball and foam pits! Oh my! Indoor trampoline parks are springing up all over Seattle and have become the latest craze in family fun. However, Elevated Sportz (the newest indoor trampoline park to open!) is setting itself apart from the others in a BIG way by offering 10,000 square feet of wall-to-wall rebounding fun, the largest indoor soft play space in Seattle, and fab amenities for parents. This is not your average indoor trampoline park!

What’s the scoop?
Located off of the Bothell-Everett Highway in Bothell (20 minutes north of Seattle), Elevated Sportz offers four trampoline areas (designed for ages 3 to adult) including a main jumping court, 3-D dodgeball court, basketball slam dunk court, and trampoline foam pit. It doesn’t matter if your kiddo is a newbie to trampoline jumping or an old pro, each court offers a different experience and is designed for every age and jumping ability.

Before you bounce…
Before you and the kiddos can jump or bounce at Elevated Sportz, you’ll need to complete a liability waiver–one is required for each person. To save time at the door (and avoid the long wait times at the electronic kiosks), either plan on arriving at least 30-minutes after the park has opened or complete the waiver online prior to your arrival. You can also purchase tickets online to expedite your entry time.

What else is there to do?
Adjacent to the trampoline courts is a 6,300 square foot multi-level, soft play structure known as Kidz Adventure. In addition to multiple tubes, tunnels, and bridges (think a life-sized hamster cage for kids!), this over-the-top play structure includes a spiral slide that will take you from the top of the structure all the way to the bottom, an obstacle course, ball pit, Kiddie Kastle, and mounted air-powered shooters! Yes. There’s a little something for everyone in this fun zone! And unlike other indoor soft play spaces in town, you don’t need to worry about height or weight restrictions since Kids Adventure is designed for kids just learning to walk to age 12.

While Tony Cui, owner of Elevated Sportz and father of two young boys, designed the park to give kids a high-energy indoor play experience, he also designed the park for parents and knows what it takes to keep families coming back for more. In addition to a free WiFi lounge, Cui designed a second floor iSpy Deck for parents and caregivers to keep tabs on their kids or to simply relax with a cup of coffee and enjoy an unobstructed view of the park.

Now that you’ve worked up an appetite
In the u Jump i Jump Café, Cui offers a variety of made-to-order food items and beverages. This is not your typical kiddie park restaurant, but pizza is on the menu and the café will soon be serving adult beverages. Cui has also strategically placed several flat screen televisions around the café, lounge, and on the iSpy Deck so you can enjoy the latest football or baseball game while your kiddo goes crazy. In the coming year, Cui plans to offer dodgeball leagues and trampoline fitness classes for parents as well.

Party like it’s your birthday
If you’re looking for a fun place to have your child’s next birthday party, Elevated Sportz offers two private rooms on their main floor that come equipped with a flat screen TV and built-in surround sound. If you’re thinking this is not your typical party room–you’re right! For a fee, Elevated Sportz will also design a birthday party package for you including invitations, decorations, food, party goods, a dedicated party hostess, and more! If you’re looking for a private suite to hold your next family reunion, corporate event or PEPS reunion, Elevated Sportz also offers a 1,500 square foot OH-Zone suite. This second floor, private suite is designed to hold up to 75 people and offers guests a fab view of the park as well as state-of-the-art audio and visual equipment.

What’s it gonna cost?
Admission prices are based per hour and are a bit steep. However, if you’re looking for a super-fun indoor play space to burn off some energy (and cure the cabin fever blues!), Elevated Sportz is worth every penny. Bonus: Parents are always free with a paying child and special Toddler Time rates are available during the week as well as Friends and Family Night discounts and discount punch cards. Check the online calendar for more information.

Good to know
If you’re planning on visiting the park, but don’t want to shell out extra money for food, we suggest you eat before you go and pack some snacks for the car ride home. This park will burn some serious calories in no time! And while you can’t take outside food into the park, a refillable water bottle (or sippy cup) would be a good idea. The trampoline park does offer water fountains, restrooms with changing areas, a large area with picnic tables, and cubbies for shoes and coats.

Elevated Sportz
18311 Bothell-Everett Highway, Suite 140
Bothell, Wa 98012
425-949-4488

Online: www.elevatedsportz.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/ElevatedSportz
Twitter: twitter.com/elevatedsportz

Hours:
Monday – Thursday: 10:00 am – 10:00 pm
Friday – Saturday: 10:00 am – 11:00 pm
Sunday: 10:00 am – 9:00 pm

Admission:
Trampoline Open Jump Time
Ages: 3 and up

Weekdays:
$11 for 60 minutes
Add-on: $7 for 60 minutes
Add-on: $5 for 30 minutes

Weekends:
$11 for 60 minutes
Add-on: $11 for 60 minutes
Add-on: $6 for 30 minutes

Kidz Adventure Play Time
Ages: Walking to 12

Weekdays:
$11 for 90 minutes
Add-on: $7 for 60 minutes

Weekends:
$11 for 90 minutes
Add-on: $8 for 60 minutes

Unlimited Access to Trampolines & Kidz Adventure
Ages: 3 to 12

Weekdays:
$19 for 2 hours

Weekends:
$22 for 2 hours

Do you think you will give Elevated Sportz a try? We would love to hear your comments below.

— Kristina Moy (she even took the photos!)

ML Interest Tag: elevate

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