ML Interest Tag: peacock

6 Birthday Party Ideas Your Tween Will Love

by rtguiomar

The tween years can be difficult for a number of reasons. You’re in between life stages, not quite a child but not yet a teenager. And planning a birthday party can be, well, interesting! You’ve outgrown the bouncy house phase but you’re not quite at the pizza and a movie alone phase. Not to worry! The DMV is filled with entertaining and exciting options for that in between party point!

Photo: Escape Room Live

Escape Room Live
The “Escape” experiences are all the rage worldwide and the DMV is definitely not being left behind! Escape Room Live has three DMV locations (Georgetown, Glover Park and Alexandria) and they are all the rage. Players work in teams to solve puzzles and brainteasers in order to “escape” the room in which they’re trapped — before time runs out. Room themes include favorites like “Titanic,” “Ghostbusters,” and “Sherlock Holmes.” They offer a variety of party packages and it’s a great team-building activity which is key in the tween years!

Georgetown, Glover Park, and Alexandria, Va
Online: escaperoomlive.com

Ultrazone Laser Tag
Who doesn’t love laser tag?! At Ultrazone, your tween can step into a high-tech laser tag venture where individuality is limited only by their imagination! Their goal will be to avoid lasers, and strategize with friends as they vie for high scores and stardom! Ultrazone offers state of the art laser tag games, arcade games and birthday parties that are out of this world! Party packages include party room, host, pizza, soft drinks, arcade tokens and goodie bags. So, strap on a vest and step into the labyrinth where you will become completely immersed in another world!

3447 Carlin Springs Rd. (Bailey’s Crossroads, Va)
Online: ultrazonebaileys.com

Photo: Terrapin Adventures

Terrapin Adventures
Terrapin Adventures is all about building relationships through fun! They’re thang is aerial adventures with only wood, rope, and cable. Yep, just wood, rope and cable! They combine team building and thrills within the context of caring for and understanding our environment. Tweens can explore, learn about, and enjoy nature as it was meant to be. They have specialty trained Aerial Adventure Guides/Facilitators that provide your party with a safe, thrilling, and memorable experience. Different party theme/adventures are available and you can choose from Easy, Thrilling and Challenging difficulty levels.

8600 Foundry St. (Savage, Md
Online: terrapinadventures.com

Buzz Bakery in Ballston/Arlington
Buzz will be all the buzz with tweens who love to decorate cupcakes…and eat them! The lovely, welcoming bakery near Ballston Mall offers Birthday Party packages. You can host a very small party in the back of the bakery or a bigger one on their outside patio. Buzz offers cute cupcake and cookie decorating kits perfect if you want to go somewhere other than your house to decorate some sweets. You can even order savory snacks to nibble on.

818 N. Quincy St. (Arlington, Va)
Online: buzzbakeshop.com

Photo: Guiomar Ochoa

Zazzy Peacock Studios
Meet Jill Newman and you’ll understand why she chose the name Zazzy Peacock for her new studio located in the Artists & Makers 2 space in Rockville. She’s a colorful, creative soul who is full of energy and loves working with equally minded youngsters. You must be eight and up to host a party at ZPS and Jill will work with you on the materials you’d like to work with as well as what you’ll be creating. Tweens are encouraged to create a custom project! You bring food and cake but can leave decorations behind as Jill has zazzed ZPS in such fun, bright colors, you won’t need to lift a finger. She even handmade a festive birthday banner!

12280 Wilkins Ave. (Rockville, Md)
Online: zazzypeacockstudios.com

Encore Stage & Studio
Is your tween a drama queen?! A birthday party at Encore Stage & Studio is spot-on for your actor or theatre buff. Their birthday package includes a party room rental before the theatre performance, and an exclusive backstage tour. Plus, your tweens birthday will be announced to the entire audience before the start of the show! The party room is available 90 minutes before show-time and you’re responsible for providing food and decorations. Party package cost is only $75 plus $8/seat for the show. Now, that’s a bargain! f

4000 Lorcom Ln. (Arlington, Va)
Online: encorestageva.org

Do you have any other cool tween birthday party ideas? Share them in the comments below. 

—Guiomar Ochoa

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5 Cool Podcasts to Try on Your Next Road Trip

by rtmeredith

With a spark of fun and a whole lot of inspiration, these new kid-friendly podcasts will keep your crew quiet and entertained when you hit the road—whether it’s for a weekend or maybe just a trip to the grocery store. Keep reading to discover what you should be downloading for your kids.

 photo: Jonathan McPherskesen via Flickr

1. The Candlewick Podcast
Have you ever wondered how a children’s book author comes up with all those creative ideas? Well, so did Candlewick Press. Their new podcast series pulls the curtain back and offers us an up-close and personal look at authors and illustrators. In an easy to listen to interview format, authors and illustrators share personal stories about their creative process, how they landed in the world of children’s publishing, and how they come up with unique concepts. This engaging podcast will capture your kiddos attention, and it might have you hooked too!

Hear it: candlewickpodcast.com on iTunes and Stitcher

2. Wow In The World
If you’re constantly listening to NPR, be prepared to jump up and down because NPR recently launched a podcast for kids. Wow In The World is chocked full of interesting topics like technology, human origins, and the answers to some pressing questions (like how astronauts poop in space). Not only is the show exciting and engaging for families, but it’s designed to get kids and grown-ups talking long after the podcast has ended. Now, that’s an idea that will make you say “Wow!”

Hear it: npr.org/podcasts/510321/wow-in-the-world on iTunes and Stitcher

photo: Tim Samoff via Flickr

3. Stories Podcast
Hit download on this magical storytelling podcast and hear all the classics like Snow White and The Boy Who Cried Wolf, as well as unique stories from the author Daniel Hinds, about mermaids, dragons and more. With new episodes to play each week and dare we say, addicting series to return for, your kids will be totally hooked, We’re not making any promises here, but you may find yourself with some free time to sit back and relax or tackle your to-dos. And if you become obsessed like we did, be sure to check out the eBooks available for purchase on Stories Podcast’s website, and your kids can be happily following along with the story as it is read.

Hear it: storiespodcast.com on iTunes and Stitcher

photo: Eric Peacock via Flickr

4. Spare the Rock, Spoil the Child
Whether you’ve already got indie music-loving minis in your crew or if you’re desperately searching for kiddie tunes that won’t drive you totally nuts, Spare the Rock, Spoil the Child is a solid choice for listening ears of all ages. This family music show is produced and hosted by Bill Childs along with his own two kids, using studio quality sound played in weekly, hour-long sets. Your gang will love rockin’ to the best kindie bands around, like Dan Zanes, Caspar Babypants, and Recess Monkeys. They’ve even got some of our favorites including Ziggy Marley, The Replacements, Ella Fitzgerald and more.

Hear it: sparetherock.com on iTunes and Stitcher

5. Sparkle Stories
Sparkle up! If you’re striving for a peaceful and relaxing road trip, calming tales from Sparkle Stories is a must. Storyteller and author David Sewell McCann tells original fables with moral twists (think realistic kids handling everyday issues like sibling rivalry) hidden deep enough in the narrative your little listeners won’t even know they’re learning. A handful of episodes can be heard from your favorite podcast app or purchase a $15 per month subscription from Sparkle Stories website and gain access to a library of over 900 titles (psst...they’ve even got their own app for Apple devices to make it easier for you to listen).

Hear it: sparklestories.com on iTunes and Stitcher 

Do you and your kids have a favorite road trip podcast? Tell us which one in the Comments below.

— Meredith Mortensen,  Rachael Brandon, Shahrzad Warkentin

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How a Five-Year-Old Inspired an Epic Photoshop Battle

by Red Tricycle

Photo: Reddit

And the Internet takes over, again! When poor five-year-old Eva went to take a photo with a peacock, she ended up getting more than she bargained for: the peacock chased her, resulting in one hiarious photo. “Our trip to the petting zoo did not go as planned,” captioned bwaxse on social sharing site, Reddit.

Maybe it was the terror in her face – or possibly her fleeing stance – that inspired the Redditors…but whatever the cause, it led to an epic Photoshop battle. Check it out below:

All Photos: Imgur

Which one is your favorite? Tell us in the comments below!

H/T: Stuff

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Carlsbad’s Sleeping Beauty: Spotlight on Leo Carillo Ranch

by Aimee Della Bitta

This Carlsbad working ranch is secluded in the heart of a magnificently landscaped 27-acre canyon and designated a historic park which contains romantic hand-crafted adobe buildings, antique windmills, a reflecting pool and enough beautiful trees and flowers to keep budding nature-lovers busy and delighted. Visiting Leo Carillo Ranch with kids is like discovering a treasured gem. From oodles of prancing peacocks to authentic ranch and farming equipment, a trip to “Carlsbad’s Sleeping Beauty” is positively dreamy.

Who Was Leo Carillo?
The Leo Carillo Ranch is what Hollywood dreams are made from — literally. In 1937, at the peak of Hollywood actor and preservationist Leo Carrillo’s successful film career, he felt an intense need to find a retreat to re-create an Old California-style working ranch. He came across Los Kiotes, in an area now known as southeast Carlsbad.

What to see at The Leo Carillo Ranch
For kiddos whose favorite lyrics include “And on his farm he had a … ” be sure to check out the cattle chute, a blacksmith and foundry shop, a hay barn and a working tractor called “Big Red.” Whether you’re looking for them or not, you’re sure to run into plenty of peacocks wandering the park and in the trees. We suggest researching some fun facts about peacocks before going to the ranch. You may never be this up close and personal with so many for a while. Kids will love learning that a baby peacock is called a “peachick” and that they don’t grow their fancy tails until age three. Check out other feathery facts to share with your little bird here. 

 

Make sure to check out the abundance of local fauna. Birds of Paradise, bougainvillea and agave can be found throughout the ranch. Also look for the Toyon trees lining the sides of Palm Lane. These trees are known as Christmas Berry because of the red berries dotting their branches.

How to See the Ranch
Guided walking tours are offered on Saturday at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m., and on Sunday at 12 and 2 p.m. Tours last approximately 90 minutes. Access to buildings for further exploration are only available on these docent led tours. But, if you have littles that can’t sit through a guided tour, pick up a copy of the ranch guide at the visitor center and go explore on your own. Either way you’ll be able to enjoy the view.

What to Bring to The Leo Carillo Ranch
Make sure you come prepared with comfortable shoes for walking the grounds, plenty of sunscreen and snacks.

Don’t forget your camera! The park is a photographer’s paradise (think perfect setting for family photos). Find the “Bride’s Arch” for some seriously snap-worthy shots.

Leo Carillo Ranch
6200 Flying Leo Carrillo Ln.
Carlsbad, Ca 92009
Online: carrillo-ranch.org

Have you been to the Leo Carillo Ranch before? What’s your favorite spot to check out?

— Aimee Della Bitta (photos too)

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Modern & Colorful Hand Painted Kid Room

By Sara Olsher

When I asked my 4 year-old daughter what she wanted her room to look like, she said “lots of colors!” For a kid who often wears every color in the rainbow and enjoys mixing a lot of patterns, this wasn’t very surprising. The problem is, I (somewhat selfishly) wanted to like her room too, since I can see it from the living room. I wanted a room we could both be happy with.

I love modern design, and I wanted a room that was colorful, but not tacky or overwhelming. Stripes are obviously a big trend in rooms right now, but I didn’t want a whole room of stripes, and it felt like lots of colorful stripes could quickly overload the senses. I decided to pick six colors and do diagonal stripes – and not across the entire wall. To tone it down even further, I chose black and white accents (the black and white dot rug is from Ikea, $20).

I can honestly say that the stripes project was a pain in my tuchas and I was really glad that I decided to only do six stripes. It required a lot of painter’s tape and measuring so that the stripes were lined up perfectly.

This was a cheap project, though, thanks to paint samples from Home Depot. Each 8oz sample was $3, and I still have paint left after painting two walls and the borders of all her picture frames.

In case you’re curious, the colors are Glidden from Home Depot. Yellow is Sunflower (GLY01), Blue is Peacock Blue (GLB01), Green is Lucky Shamrock (GLG05), Pink is Watermelon Smoothie (GLR09), Red is Red Geranium (GLR06), and Orange is Orange Marmalade (GLO04).

As you can see, only half the wall is painted; the other half I left white. I gave the picture frames (Ribba from Ikea, which she’s had in her room since babyhood) some pizazz by painting the edges. I mixed in some other colorful stuff too – a vintage blackboard and a Felix the Cat ceramic piece I did in high school.

Another priority for me is storage. These are from Ikea’s Trofast collection.

At four, C can’t read yet – but she also can’t remember which drawer is for which toys. I labeled each one and drew a picture of what’s inside. This method works only part of the time, haha.

The other wall is very different – I painted circles freehand on the opposite wall. The white clock is from Target ($7), and the mid-century dresser and bookshelf are vintage. When I saw the little coat rack at Ikea ($25), I couldn’t believe how perfectly it matched the room and I had to have it. She hangs her coats and doctor jackets there.

Her dresser has a few knickknacks, mostly from my childhood, and a fan I spray-painted pink (she was thrilled!).

C loves books (and so do I!). I love this old bookshelf I found at the antiques fair for $20.

I’ve been carting these cute star garlands in bronze, silver, and gold around for years (they’re from Paper Source), and hung them from the ceiling. Good thing there’s no theme here and I can do what I want. ;)

On the left, below, you can see the blackout shade situation. This is a very wide window, and after battling for over a year with a ridiculous blackout shade from Home Depot that kept falling down, I finally decided to get two smaller shades from Ikea. These are much higher quality – the inside is made of metal, rather than cardboard like the Home Depot shade. Yes, there is a space between the two shades which lets light in, but it doesn’t bother C. I got the idea to use two shades from my friend Reichel, who did the same in her kids’ room – they aren’t bothered by the light either.

The night stand was $15 from the antiques fair. It works perfectly and can take a beating. She loves her “special drawer.”

Overall, I wanted C to feel at home in her room, and be delighted every time she enters it. From her perspective, there’s color everywhere. From my perspective, it’s fun, cute, and not tacky at all. Success, I’d say!

Sara Olsher is a single mama based in the San Francisco Bay Area. She is fascinated by emotional intelligence, confidence, and resilience in young kids.

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LEGOs are Taking Over This Local Mega-Park

by Kelly Aiglon

Hello, LEGOs! You’ll happily greet tons and tons of bricks — half a million, to be exact — if you go to Morton Arboretum before November 1. It’s all part of a new exhibit, Nature Connects: Art With LEGO Bricks by Sean Kenney. The world’s first LEGO certified professional has created over a dozen sculptures in wild colors and all shapes and sizes. Read on for the brick-tacular scoop.

The Sculptures
You’ll find them peppering the east side of the Arboretum grounds. All are inspired by nature and the fantastic creatures that call the outdoors home. Highlights include a nearly seven-foot-wide regal peacock showing off its brilliant green and blue plumage, a monarch butterfly perched on a pink milkweed plant, a hummingbird sipping nectar from a colorful trumpet flower, a nearly life-sized family of deer, and more.

There’s plenty to see but the fun is also interactive. A mosaic face cut-out invites kids to play the part of ants crawling beneath the ground. But the biggest thrill will be an ongoing event, LEGO bricks at Thursday Family Nights, held every Thursday through August 27 from 5-8 p.m. You’ll have a blast with live music, kid-friendly food and entertainment after hours in the Children’s Garden. Kids can head to the free play area where a huge selection of LEGO bricks will be available for creative building fun.

The Artist
Sean Kenney spent so much time playing with LEGO toys growing up that he decided he might as well make a career of it. For more than 30 years, the artist and “professional kid” has been turning ordinary LEGO bricks into sculptures for large-scale exhibits, major corporations and venues around the globe. Named the world’s first LEGO Certified Professional in 2005, Kenney is the only independent artist in the world that has produced steel reinforced, fully glued, outdoor-grade LEGO installations.

While You’re There …
Be sure to visit the Children’s Garden, where kids walk on stepping stones to cross a pond and kick off those their shoes for a foot dip in the Secret Stream. Children can climb a spider web of ropes or hop across a bridge. Older kids will love getting “lost” in the hedge Maze Garden (there’s a toddler maze next to it for the shorter set). Also a must-see: the hidden gem of an exhibit called Treehouse Tales (walk toward the north pond and follow the signs into the wilderness to get to it). It’s a magical village of six whimsical tree house structures that you can climb into as you learn about the vital roles trees play in our lives.

Have a blast nature and LEGO fans!

Nature Connects: Art With LEGO Bricks by Sean Kenney
Thru November 1
Cost: Free with Arboretum admission ($14/adults; $9/kids ages 2-17)
Morton Arboretum
4100 Illinois Route 43
Lisle
630-968-0074
Online: mortonarb.org

— Kelly Aiglon, with additional reporting by Kelly Haramis

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Fun Farm: Spend the Day at Frying Pan Park

by rthilaryriedemann

Pigs, cows, horses, turkeys, peacocks—these aren’t the usual beltway suspects when you think of living in D.C. But, if your family is longing for a simpler time, or just an afternoon away from the hustle and bustle, pack up some sandwiches and hit the road for Frying Pan Park. Kiddos will have a ball petting the sheep, checking out the pigs, and they can even try their hand at milking a cow. Since it’s a working farm, you’ll probably hear mooing, bleating, and baaing. We found it to be a nice respite from all the honking we hear on the beltway.

Photo: Jamie B. via Yelp

Plan Your Play
If the kids can stand to wait a few moments to see the livestock, hit up the visitor’s center to grab some info on the farm before swinging by the barns. You can get brochures, use the potty, and see a map that will show you around the farm. You may also check out the schedule of classes and events so the kids can tromp around helping with chores, shelling corn, and even taking a wagon ride. P.S. Near the entrance to the farm, is the Moffett Blacksmith Shop where kiddos can learn about blacksmithing, and how important smiths were to the community.

Truck (and Tractor) Touch
Equipment loving kiddos (and parents!) can wander around to The Antique Equipment Shed where turn of the century horse drawn and mechanized equipment reside. Not only do they have some early 1900 Fordson, John Deere and Farmall tractors, but they all work! Kids can see plows, combines and other gear that farmers used (and still use) to till, plant, harvest and work the land. The kids will be fascinated by the equipment, and super curious about the other buildings all around. There’s a smokehouse, dairy, corn crib, chicken coop, sheds, and even an outhouse! We didn’t ask if it was still functioning. The kiddos also get to check out the farmhands driving around doing chores like feeding the pigs, mucking stalls, checking on the babies, and baling hay. If the little ones want to actually ride a tractor, they’ll be out of luck, but there are a bunch of miniature tractors just outside the Middleton Barn where kids can ride, whoop, and pretend they’re the farmer in charge!

Photo: Tom G. via Yelp

Are You Ready to Party…Animals?
The littles will go udderly crazy for this part of Frying Pan Park. Cows, draft horses (complete with mice in the stalls!), sows (mama pigs), goats, lambs, and more are on display for the little ones to stare and gawk at. This time of year is perfect for introducing the fam to the tiniest farm animals, as the piglets, calves and lambs are all coming into the world, or are just a few weeks old. The super brave can pet the animals, and the bravest of the brave can even try their hand at milking a cow if you come around 4pm (double check the website for daily milking). Mini farm hands will fall in love with the lambs. A good scratch behind their ears, and the animals were in hog heaven! Uber lucky kids will get to see the male peacock in all his splendor, and maybe even get a honk or two out of him! The turkeys that President Obama pardoned at Thanksgiving live right next to the peacocks; while the ducks and their ducklings love hanging out in the tub around the corner. The barns, and pens, not only house the animals, but they let kids see what life is like on a farm. From milking pens, to hay lofts, and equipment used to move things around, the barns are more than just home to the livestock – they’re a glimpse into a farmer’s life, and what it would have been like to work on a farm in Fairfax County in the early 20th century.

Photo: Ryan D. via Yelp

Hitch a Ride
For even more fun, take a wagon ride! As the family rides around the farm, the little ones will learn about the history, land use, crop growing and get insider tidbits on the animals. Check the board outside the tractor play area for times. There’s also a vintage carousel on the grounds that lets pint sized farm goers go ‘round and round.

Shop ’til You Drop
Visitors looking for a cool beverage, a farm souvenir or who just need to cool off during the summer heat can step into the Country Store where ice cold water, toy tractors and lots of AC are available. They also have some restrooms a few feet away for the kids who just can’t make it back to the visitor’s center. Bonus: Across from the store is a small playground where kids can slide, swing, bounce, jump and race around to burn off some of that farm energy.

2709 West Ox Rd. (Herndon, Va)
Open: Daily
Online: fairfaxcounty.gov

—Hilary Riedemann

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Last Minute Christmas Eve Happenings

by Suzie Ridgway

There’s still plenty of time to catch a holiday show, shop for cool local artisan gifts, see your favorite holiday light displays and catch Santa to whisper last minute wishes before he takes off on his grand sleigh ride for the night. Check out all of the things you thought you missed, but are still there waiting for you to do on Christmas Eve.

photo: Courtesy of Portland Saturday Market

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Saturday Market’s Festival of the Last Minute
Need a Portland artisan gift at the 11th hour? This is the place to find unique, locally made treasures at the last minute. The festive environment includes a Santa booth, roving carolers, warming stations and yummy holiday treats.

Dec. 24
11 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
2 SW Naito Pkwy.
Online: portlandsaturdaymarket.com

Credit: FROGZ by Imago Theatre 

Catch a Show

Frogz
If you like your holidays with less jingle and waaaay more bells (and whistles), don’t miss this Imago Theatre show. A mesmerizing production that mixes Mummenschanz-like mime and acrobatics with breathtaking, unique costumes and masks, it truly has to be seen to be believed. Best for kids 3 and up.

Dec. 24
7-9 p.m.
$34.50/adult, 
$29.50/youth and seniors, $17.50/child
Imago Theatre
17 SE 8th Ave.
503-231-9581
Online: imagotheatre.com

George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker
What’s Christmas without Marie fighting off the Mouse King? (Or hearing preschoolers try to pronounce “Polichinelle?”) This exquisite Oregon Ballet Theatre production runs two hours, so plan accordingly for small children.

Dec. 24
Noon
Tickets: $19-$144
Keller Auditorium
222 SW Clay Ave.
503-222-5538
Online: obt.org

photo: Peacock Lane

See the Lights

Peacock Lane
This super-charming block of English Tudors in southeast Portland is a must-visit every holiday season. Your little ones will love debating which house is their favorite. The event is free, but be sure to bring a little cash for hot cocoa stands. Follow Peacock Lane on Facebook and Twitter to stay abreast of street closures.

Dec. 24
6-midnight
Free
SE Peacock Lane, between SE Stark and Belmont streets, one block east of Cesar Chavez/SE 39th
Online: peacocklane.net

The Grotto Festival of Lights
See musical performances, carolers, petting zoo, puppet shows, food and beverage, and lights, of course, as well as a petting zoo. Holiday foods and beverages are available, as is shopping in The Grotto’s Christian Gift and Book Store. Don’t forget to bring a donation of canned or dry food benefiting Snow-Cap, the east county’s affiliate of the Oregon Food Bank.

Dec. 24
5-9:30 p.m.
$5/child 3-12, $9/senior, $10/adults, free for children 2 and under
8840 NE Skidmore
503-261-2400
Online: thegrotto.org

Winter Wonderland
Get the little elves into the family truckster and drive around the race track to see the largest light show west of the Mississippi with over 250 displays. We love the giant poinsettia wreath and reindeer that jump over the car. You can also tune your radio to PIR’s special station to listen to holiday music as you drive through.

Dec. 24
5-9 p.m.
Portland International Raceway
1940 N. Victory Blvd.
503-232-3000
$18 per carload. Cash or check only.
Online: winterwonderlandportland.com

 

photo: Army Corp of Engineers via flickr creative commons

Last Chance for Santa

Santaland Downtown Macy’s
Treat your child to the Christmas tradition of Santa in Santaland at Macy’s. He’s located on the first floor, and there’s a vintage monorail car available for photos.

9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Macy’s
621 SW 5th Ave.
503-248-5415
Online: macys.com

Pioneer Place
Line at Macy’s too long? Scurry across the street to this jolly guy in the downstairs Rotunda of Pioneer Place. But what’s particularly cool about this Santa scene is the chance to walk through a winter wonderland once every hour on Christmas Eve. Yes, whether there’s snow outside or not, experience a “snow fall” of white flakes in the Atrium area – no mittens required!

9 a.m.-5 p.m.
700 SW 5th Ave.
Online: pioneerplace.com

Lloyd Center
Head down to the lower level of the mall for this gentle and jolly Santa, perched in front of Nordstrom. Be sure to check the website for photo opp hours – Santa needs to take a break daily to feed his reindeer.

noon-6 p.m.
2201 Lloyd Center
503-282-2811
Online: lloydcenter.com

Cedar Hills Crossing
For an unforgettable Santa visit with all the bells and whistles, cozy up to the jolly guy at Cedar Hills Crossing. It’s important to note that this particular Santa crew has moved from Pioneer Square, and will no longer be available there. But if you live closer to Southwest, that may just be a bonus. In addition to meeting him, kids and families may enjoy chestnuts on the fire, hot cocoa, hot cider and candy canes. They totally get the whole “line” thing and offer you options for texting or calling to reserve your spot.

9 a.m.-6 p.m.
3205 SW Cedar Hills Blvd.
Online: portlandsanta.com

Bridgeport Village
All aboard! Why should kids have all the fun? Hop on the Bridgeport Express, a 35-passenger, solar-operated trackless holiday train that transports shoppers of all ages around the Village. And, yes, there is a great Santa here, as well as some iconic holiday characters like the Grinch, Charlie Brown and Friends and Portland’s own Olaf. Santa’s got new digs this year and will be continuing a musical light snow show on the hour from 5-9 p.m. daily.

9 a.m.-5 p.m.
7455 SW Bridgeport Rd.
Tigard
Online: Bridgeport-village.com

Washington Square Mall
This mall has a “Santa Fly By” program that lets you wait in a “virtual line,” registering via web, text, phone or in person at “Santa’s Lodge” (click here for details). You receive an approximate wait time and then can go knock a few items off your OWN Santa list instead of standing in line. One of those helpful elves will text you as your time draws nigh. Gotta love elves that text, right? In addition to photos, you can scan yourself at the Naughty or Nice O’Meter, Snap an “Elfie” to star in your own video, and experience Elf-Ray Vision in Santa’s Observatory.

Dec. 24
8 a.m.-5 p.m.
9585 SW Washington Square Rd.
Online: shopwashingtonsquare.com

Clackamas Town Center
Get everyone in the family in the picture with Santa. Clackamas Town Center’s Santa offers family portraits and pet photos every Monday. Don’t miss Rudolph Wednesdays on three separate days, when Santa’s elves hand out free activity packet giveaways with the purchase of a photo package.

Dec. 24
9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Lower Level, Macy’s Home Court
12000 SE 82nd Ave.
Happy Valley
Online: clackamastowncenter.com

What’s your Christmas Eve tradition?  Let us know in the Comments below!

–Suzie Ridgway

 

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Explore San Diego’s Hidden Gardens and Caves

by Marissa Mullen

There’s no shortage of outdoor activities in San Diego. But did you know some of the best spots are hidden? You just have to know where to look! Take some time out with your kids to travel off the beaten path and discover the only cave  in La Jolla only reachable by land and a topiary garden in the middle of Mission Hills.

Photo credit: Kristen H. via Yelp

Topiary Garden
Kids will get a kick out of the huge shapes and animals that make up this Edward Scissorhands-style topiary garden in Mission Hills. This landscape wonderland is located on a hillside front yard at a private residence. You are not permitted to actually enter the garden, but you can feel free to get out of the car and delight in the artful creations. The owners have taken inspiration from their many travels to create the unique topiaries found in the garden.

Tip: Have your kids look carefully and see how many shapes you can find. Then see if they can spot a camel, a peacock and even Mickey Mouse!

3549 Union St.
San Diego, Ca 92103
Online: http://www.yelp.com/biz/harpers-topiary-garden-san-diego

Photo credit: Angela I. via Yelp

Hidden Garden of Ocean Beach
The entrance to this whimsical, magical world is tucked away in an unassuming location behind a small house in Ocean Beach. Resembling a fairy garden, this peaceful backyard is free and open to the public. Eclectic treasures and antiques are plentiful. Kids can expect to see anything from a charming rusted ore bucket and an old cement mixer, to beautiful plants, colorful flowers, serene streams and sometimes the resident cat. This neighborhood gem is a wonderful place for kiddos to explore all the treasures of the garden and to exercise their imagination. The best part is that it’s constantly changing and transforming so you will see something new each time you go.

Photo credit: Marissa Mullen

Tip: First, stop at nearby Olive Tree Marketplace and order some yummy sandwiches to go. Then take a short stroll to the Hidden Garden and enjoy a peaceful picnic while you take in the surrounding beauty.

4973 Niagara Ave.
San Diego, Ca 92107

Olive Tree Marketplace
4805 Narragansett Ave.
Online: olivetreemarket.com

Photo credit: Marissa Mullen

Sunny Jim Cave
Sunny Jim Cave is a the only cave in La Jolla that is reachable by land. Named by L. Frank Baum of Wizard of Oz fame, Sunny Jim was a cartoon cereal box mascot in the 1920s. Entrance to the cave is through the gift shop, and all kids get a cute plastic sea creature. For a nominal fee, you can enter the man-made tunnel and descend down 145 steps to a cool, scenic view at the bottom. When you’re done, leave the gift shop, turn right, and walk the bluffs to the lookout point for some spectacular ocean views.

Photo credit: Marissa Mullen

Tips: You’ll want to make sure your kiddo is able to walk down all the steps, as it’s a little dark and slightly slippery. Wear closed-toe shoes and bring a jacket, as it can get chilly at the bottom. Also, keep in mind that there is no restroom, so make sure the kids go before!

1325 Cave St.
La Jolla, CA 92037
Online: cavestore.com

Photo credit: Marissa Mullen

Do you have a favorite San Diego secret spot? Tell us in the comments!

-Written by Marissa Mullen

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Game On! Old School Games That Still Rock

by laurie halter

Did you sink a Battleship or Guess Who as a kid? Perhaps you had a Clue it was Mrs. Peacock in the study with the rope as you prepared to Operate on the guy with the big red nose?  If these sentences don’t have you scratching your head, you are a child of the pre-iPad era and know that back then board games were big business.  Below are a few of our faves old school game picks. Let us know in the comment section below if we missed your choice nostalgic game.

Rubix Cube

Any of you who remember this torture device probably also remember peeling off the colored stickers in order to re-stick them when that last blasted line didn’t match up!  How did colored, plastic squares hold so much power over us as kids?

 (Photo courtesy of Gracedustin via Flickr)

Clue

If you knew it was Professor Plum in the Library with the candlestick, then you grew up with a steady diet of mystery sleuthing playing Clue as a kid. Whether Mrs. Peacock is your go-to gal or old Mr. Cranky pants, Colonel Mustard, Clue remains a fave among Gen X and Y parents.

 (Photo courtesy of Chris Corwin via Flickr)

Life

Ah… if only in real life you could buy a sports car, marry the guy of your dreams and move into a mansion with the spin of the numbered wheel. You’re on cloud nine, until…the dreaded “Taxes Due” spot!  The board game Life ushered many young girls and boys into the trials and tribulations of being a grown up, if only for a short time, while taking a ride in their favorite plastic car.

(Photo courtesy of  LifeSupercharger via Flickr)

Simon

Flash green, flash blue, flash blue, flash red, repeat… faster. Are your hands sweating yet? If so, you probably watched every kid in the rumble seat of their family car matching wits with Simon.  Now, nearly 35 years later, you’re more likely to find it in iPad form than a clunky piece of plastic, but the game itself continues to instill anxiety in the hearts of children everywhere.

 (Photo provided by Toywhirl via Flickr)

Mouse Trap

It seems you can, in fact, build a better mousetrap and this game helped children the nation over try to outwit their opponent at it.

 (Photo courtesy of Squiggle via Flickr)

Perfection

The last plastic piece is almost in its matching tile when BOOM – the entire board is thrown in the air and the alarm sounds. The minute is over and the player has not in any way reached Perfection. Let’s just rename this little beauty, “the heart attack.”

 (Photo courtesy of Jronaldlee via Flickr)

Battleship

If you’ve ever shouted the battle cry, “You sunk my battleship” you have been through the rigors of the strategic game of little grey plastic boats. Remember placing the ships as close together as possible to make it seem like the biggest ship had been found?

 (Photo courtesy of nworbleahcim via Flickr)

Chutes and Ladders

Chutes and Ladders was an early lesson in winning (up the ladder you go) and losing (down the ladder you slide, and to make it interesting, let’s add a broken plate of cookies.) And just when you thought you had made it to the winning square? More often than not, the result was that last long slide to the bottom.

(Photo courtesy of Ben Husmann via Flickr)

Guess Who?

Who else thought the people on the cards in this guessing game really could talk based on the commercials promoting it during our youth?  What a letdown to open the box and realize that instead of a grandma saying, “Can you guess who? “, it was really just a deduction game based on facial features.

(Photo courtesy of Ben Sutherland via Flickr)

Operation

Ushering a whole generation of young imaginary surgeons, Operation not only let kids of the 80s and 90s operate on a character, but freak out at the smallest hint of a trembling hand.

(Photo courtesy of Pernell via Flickr)
 
 

What board games most remind you of your childhood?

— Laurie Halter

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