Blippi Is Heading Back Out on Tour & Here’s How to Get Tickets

by Karly WoodNovember 16, 2021

Are your kiddos major fans of Blippi? Well it’s time for the YouTube sensation to get out from behind the screen and entertain the family live, in round two of his super popular tour!

Moonbug Entertainment and Round Room Live have just announced that Blippi The Musical will resume touring North America in February 2022. Blippi will be bringing his educational and energetic content to to cities all across the U.S., with tickets already going on sale.

photo: Courtesy of Shore Fire Media

“After multiple sold out shows in over 65 markets this past summer, we’re excited for even more audiences to experience Blippi The Musical in 2022,” says Stephen Shaw (the tour’s producer and co-president of Round Room Live). “We’re thrilled to continue to provide exciting and lasting memories for the whole family while prioritizing safety with venue and health officials in every city.”

While the entire list of cities have not been released yet, so far Blippi will appear in the following locales:

Friday, Feb. 4 – Merrill Auditorium – Portland, ME
Saturday, Feb. 5 – Emerson Colonial Theatre – Boston, MA
Sunday, Feb. 6 – Cross Insurance Center – Bangor, ME
Tuesday, Feb. 8 – New Jersey Performing Arts Center – Newark, NJ
Wednesday, Feb. 9 – Bushnell Performing Arts Center – Hartford, CT
Thursday, Feb. 10 – Proctors Theater – Schenectady, NY
Friday, Feb. 11 – Shea’s Performing Arts Center – Buffalo, NY
Saturday, Feb. 12 – Lyric Theatre – Baltimore, MD
Tuesday, Feb. 15 – Benedum Center – Pittsburgh, PA
Wednesday, Feb. 16 – 1^stSummit Arena – Johnstown, PA
Thursday, Feb. 17 – Berglund Performing Arts Theatre – Roanoke, VA
Friday, Feb. 18 – John Paul Jones Arena – Charlottesville, VA
Saturday, Feb. 19 – Thomas Wolfe Civic Auditorium – Asheville, NC
Sunday, Feb. 20 – Macon City Auditorium – Macon, GA
Tuesday, Feb. 22 – SKyPAC – Bowling Green, KY
Wednesday, Feb. 23 – Old National Center Events Plaza – Theater – Evansville, IN
Thursday, Feb. 24 – Rupp Arena – Lexington, KY
Friday, Feb. 25 – Rialto Square Theatre – Joliet, IL
Saturday, Feb. 26 – Fisher Theatre – Detroit, MI
Sunday, Feb. 27 – Carson Center – Paducah, KY
Tuesday, Mar. 1 – Landmark Theater – Syracuse, NY
Thursday, Mar. 3 – Hershey Theatre – Hershey, PA
Friday, Mar. 4 – The Palace Theatre – Stamford, CT
Saturday, Mar. 5 – Kings Theatre – Brooklyn, NY
Sunday, Mar. 6 – Flynn Center for the Performing Arts – Burlington, VT
Tuesday, Mar. 8 – Mohegan Sun Arena – Wilkes-Barre, PA
Wednesday, Mar. 9 – Forum Theatre – Binghamton, NY
Thursday, Mar. 10 – Kodak Center – Rochester, NY
Friday, Mar. 11 – Embassy Theatre – Fort Wayne, IN
Saturday, Mar. 12 – Miller High Life Theatre – Milwaukee, WI
Tuesday, Mar. 15 – Duluth Symphony Hall – Duluth, MN
Wednesday, Mar. 16 – State Theatre – Minneapolis, MN
Thursday, Mar. 17 – Chester Fritz Auditorium – Grand Forks, ND
Friday, Mar. 18 – Washington Pavilion – Sioux Falls, SD
Saturday, Mar. 19 – Five Flags Event Center – Dubuque, IA
Tuesday, Mar. 22 – Hartman Arena – Wichita, KS
Wednesday, Mar. 23 – Pikes Peak Center for the Performing Arts – Colorado Springs, CO
Thursday, Mar. 24 – Fine Arts Theatre – Rapid City, SD
Sunday, Mar. 27 – Theater at the Brick – Bozeman, MT
Wednesday, Mar. 30 – Ford Wyoming Center – Casper, WY
Thursday, Mar. 31 – Eccles Theatre – Salt Lake City, UT

Parents can head to BlippiTheMusical.com for tour dates and tickets. If your littles absolutely can’t wait to catch Blippi on stage, you can stream the North American Tour Cast Recording of his show, which features 13 songs, by heading to moonbug.lnk.to/BLive.

––Karly Wood

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Food Trucks: Your Meals on Wheels

by Sandra LeeAugust 17, 2021

Have a meal al fresco with rolling restaurants that are delicious with no clean-up needed. These awesome neighborhood food trucks around the Bay Area not only serve gourmet food of all cuisines but are a great way to get the family together and hang outside. Many are open with COVID-19 precautions and pre-ordering in place, so get ready to dine out!

San Francisco

Off the Grid Levi's Plaza

Take a break during the week and enjoy lunch outside from some of the best rolling trucks in town. Chow down on @senorsisig, @curryupnow, @bowldacai and others on a rotating schedule.

1155 Battery Street
San Francisco, CA
When: Tues.-Thurs. 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
Online: offthegrid.com

SPARK Social SF

A community garden space in the heart of Mission Bay, this food truck park is also a beer and sangria garden as well as an event space. They work with over 150 food trucks that rotate for lunch and dinner, so there is truly something for everyone. The lineup is posted every day at 10 a.m!

601 Mission Bay Blvd. North
San Francisco, CA
When: Weekdays 11 a.m.-9 p.m. (with trucks rotating 3-5 p.m.), Saturdays 11 a.m.-9 p.m. and Sundays 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Online: sparksocialsf.com

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Parklab Gardens

Mini golf and dinner? Head over to Parkland Gardens for tee time and food. @hooktdoughnuts is there with mini and mochi donuts if you are looking for something sweet, or make it a Taco Tuesday with @domingosinternational! Check out the bar for Happy Hour specials every day.

1379 4th St.
San Francisco, CA
When: 11 a.m.-9 p.m. daily
Online: parklabgardens.com

East Bay

Off the Grid—South Shore Center, Alameda

Check out this pop-up lunch event, open every Saturday with food trucks and live music! They set up shop in the parking lot of South Shore Center, a 594,000 square-foot open-air shopping destination featuring a variety of nationally known retailers and restaurants to serve the residents of Alameda. A nice food break before or after some shopping!

535 South Shore Center
Alameda, CA
When: Saturdays, 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
Online: offthegrid.com

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A post shared by Tacos Sinaloa (@tacos_sinaloa_oakland)

Tacos Sinaloa

Family-owned and operated, this Oakland taco truck is your best bet for authentic tacos in the East Bay. Meat, veggie and seafood lovers can munch on tacos, burritos, quesadillas and tortas. Don't forget a seasonal agua fresca or strawberry horchata!

2138 International Blvd
Oakland, CA
When: 9 a.m. Sun.-Mon.
Online: tacossinaloaoakland.com

Peninsula/South Bay

Kona Ice West San Jose—South Bay

Follow the Kona Ice West San Jose Facebook page to get all the intel on when they'll be delivering to your neighborhood. You’ll place your order in advance and we definitely recommend you go for the color-changing cups as the kids will love them.

Online: facebook.com

Tasty Mob Market
A food concept with food trucks and pop-up stores, Tasty Mob Market aims to connect small business owners with the community. From tacos to momos, there is something for everyone! Be sure to stop by Calif Caracas for the Bay's best empanadas!

Online: Redtri.com

Off the Grid—Serramonte Center

Serramonte is your Tuesday night dinner spot in Daly City. Enjoy street food from a rotating list of food trucks right outside Serramonte Shopping Center like @capelosbarbecue and @curveballmobile for some awesome sliders.

39 Serramonte Center
Daly City, CA
When: Tuesdays, 5-8 p.m.
Online: offthegrid.com

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The Momo Everest

Authentic Chinese and Nepalese food is served up including their namesake Momo, which is a delectable meat or veggie filled dumpling. Their chili chicken is to die for and quite spicy so make sure to wash it all down with the best Masala Chai you will find outside of Kathmandu!

Multiple locations (yes, they're that good):

205 W El Camino Real, Sunnyvale
425 S Winchester Blvd, San Jose
81 S Main St, Milpitas
1593 Monterey Rd, San Jose
39233 Fremont Blvd, Fremont

Online: https://everestmomo.us/find-us

Marin

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A post shared by Marin Country Mart (@marincountrymart)

Marin Country Mart

Marin Country Mart is the place to be for Sunday lunch! Food trucks are there serving up delicious sweet and savory snacks for the whole family. Afterward, stroll over to the shopping village and support local businesses.

2257 Larkspur Landing Circle
Larkspur, CA
When: Sundays 11 a.m-3 p.m
Online: facebook.com/marincountrymart

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A post shared by Casablanca Food Truck (@casablancafoodtruck_)

Casablanca Moroccan and Mediterranean

Looking for some healthy and delicious Mediterranean food? Casablanca's been cooking up gourmet favorites like falafel, shwarma sandwiches and kabob wraps for 17 years. Follow them on social to see what farmer's market they'll be at next!

Online: casablancamoroccanfood.com

—Sandra Lee & Kate Loweth

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Yes, You Can Buy a Crunchwrap Supreme Float and Yes, It’s Only Five Dollars

by Sarah ShebekJune 24, 2021

We have four words for you: Crunchwrap Supreme Pool Float. Thanks to Five Below’s new partnership with Taco Bell, you can claim one for your summer fun—for only $5!

If you’d rather set sail on a giant packet of hot sauce or a hard shell taco, you’ve got options. The full line includes three floats to choose from (four, if you count the two different hot sauces) for ages 12 and up. Taco bout the perfect way to spice up your water play!

They’re only available at Five Below, the retailer that offers fun family items starting at $1. And since each one is five bucks each, you might want to snag them all before they sell out. Good luck choosing your favorite!

One caveat: maybe don’t take your actual Taco Bell order into the water. A soggy taco is a sad taco. Save the food for the shore, then Live Mas with these floats!

—Sarah Shebek

Featured image courtesy of Five Below

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There’s a “Friends” Cruise Coming & It’s Time to Pivot Your Summer 2022 Plans

by Karly WoodJune 10, 2021

It’s been a big year for Friends fans. With the reunion special finally airing, it’s time to start looking for ways to get your next fix, and we’ve got the answer!

Travel agency Fana World Travel has just announced the Cruise with Friends vaycay. Setting sail May 15 to 21, 2022 on the Celebrity Equinox, the getaway offers the perfect atmosphere for uber fans to mingle with each other as they travel to Key West, Grand Cayman and Cozumel, Mexico.

photo: Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

Cruise with Friends will be limited to 500 Friends fans and will be a complete experiential trip. You’ll get to compete in a themed costume contest, trivia game and more!

Prices start at $1648 per person for an inside stateroom, with a double occupancy requirement (or double your rate if you’re flying solo). You’ll also get unlimited surf Wi-Fi, $150 shore excursion credit and a premium beverage package included with your fees.

Make sure you’re ready to cruise, as all fees are non-refundable. One last tidbit: despite being a Friends-themed cruise, the OG actors will not be aboard this summer getaway.

––Karly Wood

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It’s Baby Situation! Mike & Lauren Sorrentino Welcome First Child

by Sarah ShebekMay 28, 2021

We have a (mini) situation! And he has a fantastic name: Romeo Reign. He’s the first child of Mike “The Situation” Sorrentino and wife Lauren Sorrentino.

You’ll likely recognize Mike from the Jersey Shore series, who married his longtime love Lauren Pesce in 2018. They’ve already set up an Instagram account for their new addition with one of the best handles we’ve seen in a while, @itsbabysituation. Baby Romeo’s debut picture is captioned with his weight (six pounds, eight ounces) and length (19 inches).

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A post shared by Romeo Reign Sorrentino 👑 (@itsbabysituation)

Romeo’s new Insta account also teases the launch of “Shop Baby Sitch” on June 1. Described as a premium lifestyle baby brand, it will feature products hand-picked by Mike and Lauren. And Baby Situation is feeling lots of love in the comment section, as Snooki, MTV and the Jersey Shore accounts sent congratulations to the family. We’ll join in with our own best wishes to the happy family of three!

—Sarah Shebek

Featured image courtesy of Tinseltown / Shutterstock.com

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It’s All Island Vibes with Krispy Kreme’s New Collection

by Karly WoodMay 18, 2021

Summer vacation is still a few weeks away but that doesn’t mean you can’t experience the flavors of the season. Krispy Kreme has just launched their new collection and it’s available now.

Starting today, May 17, the Island Time Collection is available at participating locations in three tropical flavors. Not only do the flavors bring you to a summer state of mind, but the beachy toppings will have you craving a day at the shore, too.

photo: Courtesy of Krispy Kreme

The three flavors include:

Pina Colada Doughnut: An Original Glazed® doughnut filled with Pina Colada-flavored Kreme, dipped in a Pina Colada-flavored icing, sprinkled with toasted coconut shreds and topped with a candied cherry.
Island Time Doughnut: An Original Glazed doughnut filled with classic Kreme, dipped in light blue icing and graham crumbs to resemble an Island, and topped with a palm tree.
Key Lime Pie Doughnut: A doughnut filled with Key Lime Kreme, dipped in lime green icing, topped with graham crumbs and a Kreme dollop.

Not only will guests be able to enjoy the Island Times Key Lime Pie Doughnut option, but they’ll also be able to sink their teeth into the Key Lime Glazed Doughnut on Key Lime Fridays. May 21 and 28th, Krispy Kreme will offer both lime sweets for diehard citrus lovers.

The collection is only available for a limited time, so head to a Krispy Kreme near you.

––Karly Wood

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Find Your Village: 15 Facebook Groups for Boston Parents

by Kate LowethMay 11, 2021

Never in history has it been more important to stay connected online. Working from home, social distancing and homeschooling can be isolating and overwhelming, so we’ve found over a dozen Facebook groups you can join to reach out and connect with other parents in the Boston community. Read on to find that support, shared knowledge and camaraderie are just a few clicks away in a local online group for parents.

Boston Moms
This group of over 7,000 members is for moms in Boston and the South Shore area to connect for support and playdates (especially!) and to share interesting articles and advice pertaining to being a mom.

Polish Triangle Parents
Polish Triangle Parents (PTP) is an online community for parents living and/or working in Boston's Polish Triangle, a neighborhood in Dorchester.

Boston South End Parents
Parents in the South End neighborhood of Boston can connect in this Facebook group to share area resources.

Somerville (and beyond) Parents
This is an informal group for parents in the Somerville, MA area. This group is designed to make it easier for parents to arrange get-togethers, seek advice, share articles or resources, and just get acquainted. Nannies, grandparents and other people who care for children are also welcome.

Boston Autism Moms/Dads
This is a support group for families of children with autism. The group's intention is to help parents share information about educational, medical and social supports and services.

Boston-Area Special Needs Parents
This group welcomes parents of children with special needs who live in Boston and its immediate surroundings. It is intended to help families in very close proximity connect on social, educational and medical issues; serve as a networking opportunity for parents who may wish to conveniently connect in person as well as online; and assist in the hyper-local share, resale, and trade of unwanted or excess medical supplies, durable medical equipment, and other specialized equipment that serves children with special needs.

Brookline Parents
This group draws parents from the Brookline neighborhood to arrange meet-ups, buy and sell kids items, offer advice and get to know neighbors with similarly-aged kids.

Arlington Parents
This is a discussion group for parents and caregivers in and around Arlington, MA on topics related to parenting, children, caregiving, families, school and more. The group numbers over 6,000 members.

Newton Parents
This robust group of over 8.000 members is for parents in Newton, MA to communicate about local programs, classes and offerings.

JP Families
This group is a grass-roots list organized by Jamaica Plain parents and guardians and those working towards adding children to their family who want to connect on Facebook, ask advice and find resources. Its local area is primarily Jamaica Plain, Roslindale, West Roxbury, Roxbury, Mission Hill and parts of Brookline/Dorchester/Hyde Park/Mattapan.

Boston Desi Parents
This group brings together parents who are interested in socializing and sharing Indian culture with their children.

Gay Dads of Greater Boston
This group aims to bring together gay dads raising kids in the greater Boston area and it adjacent cities and towns, so that their children can get to meet each other, play and develop a positive self-esteem. Also, gay dads can develop long-term friendships, allowing them to share support and ideas on how to raise happy, well-adjusted kids proud of their family composition

Braintree Moms
The Braintree Moms group has been set up as a resource for expectant, new and experienced moms (as well as female guardians) that are currently living in Braintree, MA or those planning on moving to the area.

Quincy Moms
This group supports moms in Quincy, Braintree, Weymouth, Hingham and beyond.The group shares school information, tips for families and support for those living in the area.

Bedford, Massachusetts Moms & Dads Group
This page is for Bedford parents to communicate on all things related to kids: from school-related events, weather cancellations and special programs to parents trying to get rid of old kids' toys, clothes etc. Here you can find recommendations for babysitters and summer camps.

Do you have a parenting group that you’d like added to this list? Send an email to kate.loweth@tinybeans.com.

—Kate Loweth

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The 10 Best Kid-Friendly Trails in Pittsburgh

By AllTrails

Tinybeans Voices Contributor

December 21, 2020

The next time you’re itching to get out of the house, head out on an easy hike with your whole family. Thanks to our friends at AllTrails, we’ve rounded up a list of the best kid-friendly trails in Pittsburgh that are gentle enough for even the youngest of hikers. Read on to check them out.

1. North Shore Riverfront Trail

North Shore Riverfront Trail is a 10.1 mile heavily trafficked out and back trail located near Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania that features a river and is good for all skill levels. The trail is primarily used for walking, running, road biking, and mountain biking and is accessible year-round. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.

Distance: 10.1 miles
Difficulty: Easy

2. Riverview Park Loop Trail

Riverview Park Loop Trail is a 2.7 mile moderately trafficked loop trail located near Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania that features beautiful wild flowers and is good for all skill levels. The trail offers a number of activity options and is accessible year-round. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.

Distance: 2.7 miles
Difficulty: Easy

3. Nine Mile Run, Braddock, Kensington, Homewood and Tranquil Loop

Nine Mile Run, Braddock, Kensington, Homewood and Tranquil Loop is a 3.6 mile moderately trafficked loop trail located near Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania that features a great forest setting and is good for all skill levels. The trail is primarily used for hiking, walking, running, and nature trips and is best used from April until November.

Distance: 3.6 miles
Difficulty: Easy

4. Meeks Run and Oil Well Trail Loop

Meeks Run and Oil Well Trail Loop is a 1.8 mile moderately trafficked loop trail located near Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania that features a river and is good for all skill levels. The trail offers a number of activity options and is accessible year-round. Dogs are also able to use this trail.

Distance: 1.8 miles
Difficulty: Easy

5. Highland Park Double Loop Trail

Highland Park Double Loop Trail is a 2.5 mile moderately trafficked loop trail located near Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania that features a lake and is good for all skill levels. The trail offers a number of activity options and is accessible year-round. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.

Distance: 2.5 miles
Difficulty: Easy

6. Fall Run Trail

Fall Run Trail is a 1.4 mile moderately trafficked out and back trail located near Glenshaw, Pennsylvania that features a waterfall and is good for all skill levels. The trail is primarily used for hiking, walking, running, and mountain biking and is accessible year-round. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.

Distance: 1.4 miles
Difficulty: Easy

7. Hartwood Acres

Hartwood Acres is a 5.5 mile moderately trafficked loop trail located near Allison Park, Pennsylvania that features beautiful wild flowers and is good for all skill levels. The trail offers a number of activity options and is best used from May until September. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.

Distance: 5.5 miles
Difficulty: Easy

8. Dark Hollow Woods Trails

Dark Hollow Woods Trails is a 1.2 mile moderately trafficked loop trail located near Oakmont, Pennsylvania that features a river and is good for all skill levels. The trail is primarily used for hiking and walking and is accessible year-round. Dogs are also able to use this trail.

Distance: 1.2 miles
Difficulty: Easy

9. Monongahela Incline

Monongahela Incline is a 1.7 mile lightly trafficked loop trail located near Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania that offers scenic views and is good for all skill levels. The trail is primarily used for hiking, walking, and nature trips and is best used from April until October. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.

Distance: 1.7 miles
Difficulty: Easy

10. Snowflake Loop, Wissahickon and Bridle Trail

Snowflake Loop, Wissahickon and Bridle Trail is a 1.4 mile moderately trafficked loop trail located near Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania that offers the chance to see wildlife and is good for all skill levels. The trail is primarily used for hiking, nature trips, horses, and mountain biking and is best used from March until October. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.

Distance: 1.4 miles
Difficulty: Easy

AllTrails

Tinybeans Voices Contributor

AllTrails helps connect us to the outdoors and makes getting outside easier and more accessible. Home to the largest collection of hand-curated trail guides, with AllTrails you can search for and navigate trails, parks, and green spaces, or use filters to find your next favorite trail.

Amtrak Announces Roomette BOGO Sale

by Jennifer SwartvagherJuly 9, 2020

Many people are looking to get out of town to visit loved ones or simply they just want to escape for a few days. Amtrak customers can travel in the comfort of a private room at a discounted price this summer. Now, when one person purchases a Roomette, one companion can join them for free.

Roomette accommodations are offered on many routes across the country. Located in the sleeping car, a Roomette is the perfect option for customers seeking privacy and space on a short trip and added comfort and amenities when traveling overnight. All customers in private rooms receive complimentary lounge access at major stations, priority boarding and complimentary meals onboard.

Roomette accommodations are available across the national network on the following trains: California Zephyr, Capitol Limited, Cardinal, City of New Orleans, Coast Starlight, Crescent, Empire Builder, Lake Shore Limited, Silver Service, Southwest Chief, Sunset Limited and Texas Eagle.

Available on Amtrak.com or by using the Amtrak app, customers can book between Jul. 7-17, 2020 for travel from Jul. 13, 2020 through Sept. 30, 2020.

To receive this discount, use the Fare Finder from this page or enter code V306 when booking a trip on the Amtrak app. The offer is subject to availability and not available on the Auto Train. An advanced reservation of at least three days is required. Other restrictions may apply.

In an effort to simplify and safeguard the travel experience, several cleaning, contract-free and convenience measures have been implemented to every part of the customer journey. Learn more about all measures at Amtrak.com/coronavirus.

—Jennifer Swartvagher

Featured photo: Aris on Unsplash

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36 Ways Your Kids Transform Your Mom Heart

By Shelby Spear

Tinybeans Voices Contributor

April 9, 2020

Photo: Pixabay

If we think we know a thing or two about life and love going into parenting, we realize the moment our child first rests in our arms just how shallow our roots of understanding. Which makes sense because the greatest path to knowing self is by coming to know who we are as a part of someone else.

And as a mom, fusing ourselves to the heartbeat of our kiddos is indescribable. While we learn a whole lot of good about the true meaning of love, our children also have an uncanny ability to point out massive flaws in our character. Thank God. Really, God, thank you.

Our kin become a perpetual mirror for us to gaze upon as they reflect back what we like about our self along with what needs some finishing touches. Since I’ve somehow managed to log 23 years of parenting three kids in like 20 seconds of real time, the length of journey allows me to ponder all the lessons learned. And let me tell you, the instruction is kinda sorta picking up steam as I steward young adults in their 20s. Fair warning.

So here are 36 beautiful lessons—based in part from Robert Fulghum’s poem, All I Really Need to Know I Learned in Kindergarten—we can glean from our precious ones, split into Act 1(birth to 12) and Act 2 (13+) of child rearing. Act 1: All the Insight Needed to Become Selfless Your Young Kids Will Teach You

Cherish everything.
Fight fair.
Don’t compare yourself to others.
Put everything into perspective.
Worry about your own mess.
Don’t expect others to see things the way you do.
Say I love you. Always.
Count to ten before anything.
Pray.
Trials and struggles enlighten you.
Live a grateful life.
Trust more, think less.
And love and hug and listen and laugh.
Speak, but also be.
Make some time for you every day.
When you feel like you’re alone on an island, know a million other parents share the same shore.
Communicate, then succeed and fail together.
Become a child once again.

Act 2: All the Insight Needed for Authentic Freedom Your Teens Will Teach You

Let go of almost everything.
Give up the fight.
Don’t take things personally.
Change your perspective.
Stop worrying.
Try to see things as others do.
Love. Everything. Always.
Count your blessings daily.
Pray. Pray. Pray.
Let yourself unfold.
Live simply and simply live.
Be more open-minded.
And observe and breathe and be and become.
Project less.
Love yourself each day.
When you feel like you’ve done nothing right, pause and turn to God for His opinion.
Communicate by listening first, speaking if necessary, extending Grace always.
Embrace the dichotomy of life.

Witnessing the chaos, magnificence, unpredictability, grand metamorphoses of all things ‘growing up’ reminds us how much we need to unlearn as adults to become like little children once again.

The joys of motherhood speak for themselves, but it’s in the messy pile where we find our authentic self.

The gift of motherhood full of collateral beauty we never signed up for and receive anyway: freedom to unfold and become the best version of ourselves right alongside our kids.

What a blessing.

Shelby Spear

Tinybeans Voices Contributor

A self-described “sappy soul whisperer/sarcasm aficionado,” Shelby is a wife of 27 years & mom of three millennials. She co-authored How Are You Feeling, Momma? (You don't need to say, "I'm fine.") Her stories are in print at Guideposts, online at sites like Her View From Home and Parenting Teens & Tweens, and at shelbyspear.com. Get 3 FREE chapters of Shelby's book

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1. North Shore Riverfront Trail

2. Riverview Park Loop Trail

3. Nine Mile Run, Braddock, Kensington, Homewood and Tranquil Loop

4. Meeks Run and Oil Well Trail Loop

5. Highland Park Double Loop Trail

6. Fall Run Trail

7. Hartwood Acres

8. Dark Hollow Woods Trails

9. Monongahela Incline

10. Snowflake Loop, Wissahickon and Bridle Trail

AllTrails

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Shelby Spear

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