ML Interest Tag: trading-post

LEGOS, Life Lessons, and My Little Lady

By Shelley Massey

Photo: Shelley Massey

My daughter. She’s a wily one. Born smack in the middle of two boys with a mom who cares more that she gets in a good run than a good manicure, my tender bloom is equal parts girly-girl and gunslinger.

By birth order alone, she inherited a basement full of action hero costumes, dinosaurs, trains, and LEGOs. In this jungle of—like it or not—stereotypical boy-ness, for years my daughter never knew that there were princess palaces and pink cheerleading outfits to contemplate. And even after the floodgates of pink, purple, and sparkly opened, I still find her sifting through her brothers’ stash, often looking for just the right prop for whatever drama she’s acting out. She learned early on to take what she has and make it work.

Just. Like. A. Girl. Can I get an amen, anyone?

Consider her adventures with LEGOs for a moment. While my son is a stickler for following the instructions and playing along with whatever theme comes plastered on the box (grateful to have at least one rule follower), my daughter takes the mismatched sets and works miracles. The chassis of a Ninja Turtles sixteen wheeler? That’s a stage for her ballerina police officer. Darth Vader in miniature? Nope. He’s a ninja warrior who fights red legos that she’s planted all over the playroom floor (oh, joy!). Her structures, while elaborately created from imagination instead of the blueprints we lost ages ago, matter less in the grand order of LEGO playtime. It’s her plot—the story and the drama and the interactions between her characters—that matters more.

Now, before you start feeling too sorry for my little LEGO lover, I should tell you that we’ve supplied her with plenty “girl” sets of her own. But the same thing happens. We build the set to specifications, and by the next afternoon Elsa has become a cowgirl on Sven’s back, Anna is a sled-driving horse thief, and Olaf is Sherif. The trading post we spent an hour building is snapped to the top of her brother’s LEGO X-Wing, and the Death Star is in jeopardy from an ice cube slinging Kristoff. It’s the plot that matters more.

At night, when I worry about my kids—or more honestly, about my parenting skills—I comb through the remnants of the day, searching for signs that I’m doing something right. And when she’s been on a LEGO kick, it’s easy to find what I’m looking for. Because if there’s any skill that a woman needs in this world, it’s her ability to pick up the mismatched pieces in the LEGO drawer of life and build something beautiful, exciting, and exactly right for herself out of it.

 

Shelley Massey is a writer and editor for family travel, fitness, and lifest‌yle publications. She enjoys exploring with her four kids ages 10 & under, running, good food, entertaining, and great stories. And though she and her family live happily in Atlanta, their hearts are in Tennessee. 

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6 Fab Flea Markets for Families

by Jennifer O'Brien

Whether you’re on the hunt for cool vintage toys or an antique baby crib, LA has world-renown flea markets filled with incredible treasures just waiting to be discovered. And kiddos can learn a lot from exploring these treasure troves with you on weekends. They’ll learn about small businesses, they’ll learn the importance of being eco-conscious in their community and how to create groovy items by simply recycling and upcycling. They’ll even learn how to bargain and negotiate for a better price. So grab some sunscreen, a hat and your best shopping bag because we’ve rounded up the top 6 fleas you need to check out, stat!

photo: Melrose Trading Post via Facebook

Melrose Trading Post
Every Sun., neighborhood families flock to the Melrose Trading Post at Fairfax High School. Filled with a thoughtfully curated selection of handcrafted artisan goods, one-of-a-kind finds, vintage clothing, albums, and antique furniture, there’s definitely something for everyone. Kids will dig the Melrose Sunday Music Series featuring tons of live music by local talent on the Greenway Arts Main Stage. There are also food trucks and a snack stand or two to keep hangry tots happy. Also, this is one of the only markets where dogs are welcome – so be sure to bring Fido along! But the very best part is that general admission and vendor fees help provide jobs for Fairfax High students, fund field trips, sports equipment, campus beautification projects, teachers programs and more ­– truly giving back to LA’s educational community.

When: Every Sun, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Cost: $3
Parking: A limited amount of free on-campus parking is first come, first serve.

Good to Know: Limited valet service is available for $5 at the Melrose and Gennessee entrance but most guests park in nearby neighborhoods and hoof it over to the market. Just be sure to pay attention to permit only and time restriction signs.

Melrose Trading Post
Fairfax High School
7850 Melrose Ave.
Los Angeles
Online: melrosetradingpost.org

photo: Topanga Vintage Market via Facebook

Topanga Vintage Market
The 4th Sun. of every month, stop by the Topanga Vintage Market at Pierce College in Woodland Hills for some of the coolest vintage and most unusual antiques in town. Whether you’re browsing for antique globes, fine China, or an old-timey Mickey Mouse phone that reminds you of childhood – you’re bound to find it here. Arrive early and ensure your pick of the best inventory possible. There are also plenty of food trucks and live entertainment on hand to feed little ones’ bodies and spirits while you get your shop on.

When: The 4th Sun. of every month, 8 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Cost: $3; 12 and under, veterans and active military are free.
Parking: Free parking is available – be sure to enter campus at the Mason Ave. entrance.

Good to Know: You can take the Metro here! The Orange Line stops right across the street from the market at the Pierce College stop.

Topanga Vintage Market
Pierce College
Victory Blvd. at Mason Ave.
Woodland Hills
Online: topangavintagemarket.com

photo: Rose Bowl Flea Market via Facebook

Rose Bowl Flea Market
Keep an eye peeled because you’re bound to spot some of Hollywood’s biggest celebs browsing next to you at LA’s most unique flea market, the Rose Bowl Flea Market in Pasadena. For over 50 years, on the 2nd Sun. of every month, vendors have been selling their wares to LA’s enthusiastic treasure hunters. With an average of 2,500 vendors on site, you may not be able to reach them all in one sitting – but hey, that’s more to explore next time! There’s plenty of food (check out the market special of a hot dog and beverage for $4) and drinks available throughout the market, including wine and beer – holla!

When: 2nd Sun. of every month, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Cost: $9; 12 and under are free.
Parking: Plenty of free parking is available on site or you may pay for VIP preferred parking closer to the entrance.

Good to Know: Tickets are available at the gate or in advance online through the Rose Bowl Flea Market site. Express admission is also available from 8 a.m. – 9 a.m. for $12 per person, early admission is available from 7 a.m. – 8 a.m. for $15 per person or VIP admission is available from 5 a.m. – 7 a.m. for $20 per person. But just know not all vendors are even moved in and completely set up until 9 a.m.

Rose Bowl Flea Market
1001 Rose Bowl Dr.
Pasadena
Online: rgcshows.com/rosebowl.aspx

photo: Long Beach Antique Market via Facebook

Long Beach Antique Market
Often named one of the top flea markets in the country, the Long Beach Antique Flea Market has been the go-to destination for treasure hunters and bargain seekers in the know since 1982. With over 20 acres of home décor, clothing, jewelry and vintage collectibles, it’s more than worth your time to drive to the LBC the 3rd Sun. of every month. Chances are you’ll spot everything from a vintage Louis Vuitton baby bag and gorgeous turquoise bracelets to a stunning mid-century dresser and indigo shibori throw that would look fab in your tyke’s nursery. You have to hit the market early to get the really great finds, but on many items, you’ll really snag a bargain here. There are food and beer options as well so shoppers (big and small) keep smiling.

When: 3rd Sun. of every month, 6:30 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Cost: $6; 12 and under are free.
Parking: Free parking is available around the market area.

Good to Know: $12 early admission with entrance to market from 5:30 a.m. – 6:30 a.m.

Long Beach Antique Market
Long Beach Veterans Stadium
4901 E. Conant St.
Long Beach
Online: longbeachantiquemarket.com

photo: Pasadena City College Flea Market via Facebook

Pasadena City College Flea Market
The Pasadena City College Flea Market held on the 1st Sun. of the month is known for its wonderful selection of antiques and collectibles and boasts one of the best record marketplaces in all of Southern Cal. So if you’re looking to introduce your littles to the vinyl of your younger years, this may just be the spot to find it. Vendors are super friendly and accommodating, prices are fair and pooches are welcome – what more could you ask for!?

When: 1st Sun. of the month, 8 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Cost: Free.
Parking: $2 parking is available at the structure on the corner of Hill and Del Mar.

Pasadena City College Flea Market
1570 E. Colorado Blvd.
Pasadena
Online: pasadena.edu/community/flea-market

photo: Artists & Fleas via Yelp

Artists & Fleas
Brooklyn-born flea market empire, Artists & Fleas, finally made its way out west and serves up some of the chicest artisan and craft fare around every 2nd and 4th Sat. in Venice. Smaller in size and expertly curated, this market is much easier to navigate than some of the other behemoths out there. From vintage clothing and cool jewelry to beauty products and healing crystals (it is Venice after all), Artists & Fleas is a relaxing weekend outing for LA families. A variety of small batch confectioners and food trucks are on site as well providing much-needed nourishment for haggling and hunting. Pups are welcome too!

When: 2nd and 4th Sat. every month, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Cost: Free.
Parking: Street parking, nearby lots and free bike parking

Artists & Fleas
Westminster Avenue Elementary School
1010 Abbot Kinney Blvd.
Venice
Online: artistsandfleas.com/la-venice

Final Treasure Hunting Tip: Don’t forget to bring lots of cash when you hit the flea market circuit. Though some vendors are happy to take credit cards, some may not and cash is king when it comes to easier bargaining.

What are some of your fave flea markets around town? Give us the scoop and let us know if we missed yours in the comments below!

—Meghan Rose & Jennifer O’Brien

RELATED STORIES:

Los Angeles Activities: Explore Pasadena

7 Local Kid-Inspired Businesses We Love

Awesome Spring Festivals to Celebrate the Season

 

 

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The Newest Play Space in Town: Little Beans Evanston

by Kelly Aiglon

What do you get when you combine an imaginative play area with a cafe? Don’t answer yet — there’s more. Add an art studio, indoor obstacle course, basketball court, party rooms, karaoke room and enough 100-watt smiles to light up Willis Tower. We’re talking about Little Beans Evanston, a kiddie haven for all ages that just opened its doors. Yes, you should get excited because it’s exactly as cool as it sounds. Read on for the scoop.

Need to Know
Little Beans Cafe and Family Activity Center in Evanston is the second location of the loved play space and cafe in Lincoln Park. Like the original, the new North Shore oasis has a warm, familial feel — but this time, the opportunities for play are super-sized. With different themed rooms and a welcoming indoor lighthouse (a nod to the nearby Grosse Point Lighthouse), it’s a massive romper room/gym with activities for littles (like a camping-themed pretend-play zone) and bigs (did you catch the part about the obstacle course?). It has set hours for open play and also hosts parties, playgroups, classes and camps.

For the Little Beans 
The main attraction for the 0-6 age range is the “play village.” Kids can dart from one huge play structure to another or scoot around on ride-on cars within view of their parent or caregiver. Fashioned after a campground, the space includes a topsy-turvy-looking clubhouse (complete with a tube slide), camper, trading post, ranger station and animal hospital. Each area is a mini universe of imaginative play and is stocked with age-appropriate toys, from plush critters to faux tools to fire hoses.

The wide-open room has a special gated corner just for crawlers. Also, a designated infant room is tucked in the back, and is great place for parents’ groups to meet. The intimate, carpeted space keeps small babies out of the hubbub so Mom and Dad can chat without worry and supervise tummy time.

For the Big Beans
While most play spaces cap off at about five years old, Little Beans Evanston makes sure older kids are included. In fact, they get their own “Ninja obstacle course.” The massive, custom-built shebang has little warriors jumping hurdles, climbing ropes, sliding down poles, walking on rings, and zooming across a foam pit on a zip line. Kids are encouraged to line up and tackle the course one by one. A green “go” button at the beginning and red “stop” button at the end adds excitement and an “American Gladiator” sense of urgency.

The big-kid zone also includes a half-court gym for games and basketball, and a lounge complete with air hockey and ping pong. Don’t leave the lounge without looking at the floor: A cool new digital gaming system called Eye Play projects games on the ground, which you play by stepping and stomping on images. Choose from soccer, hockey or a fun gopher-catching adventure. (Psst … Little Beans in Lincoln Park just added Eye Play, too, and you can find it in a new room to the side of the cafe.)

Extras You’ll Love
Apart from the main play areas, there are a few extras. The karaoke room — open at select times throughout the day — pumps kid-friendly tunes while budding American Idols let it rip into microphones. Before their starring moment, they can get primped in the “dressing room” stocked with boas, hats and other accessories.

If quiet time is on our agenda, hit the reading room, a relaxing lair with comfy chairs and, soon, a full bookshelf. Nearby, hole up in the art room, where you can tackle the project of the day or make a masterpiece of your own imagining.

Plans are in the works to offer several classes in conjunction with local businesses like Dance to Evolve, Kit Gymnastics and Fonseca Martial Arts. Music, yoga and more will also be on the agenda.

A Cafe With a Drive-Thru
The front-of-the-house cafe is a sunny destination unto itself and caters to families that have to work around lunch and feeding schedules. The menu has panini sandwiches, salads, soups, pastries, milkshakes and snacks. Coffee comes from Intelligentsia and is available in the cafe or through a drive-thru window — perfect for getting charged up for a day at this powerhouse new spot.

Little Beans Evanston
430 Asbury Ave.
Evanston
847-807-3731
Hours: Mon.-Fri., 8:30 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sat. & Sun., 8:30 a.m.-1 p.m. (Drive-thru open 6:30 a.m.-7 p.m. daily)
Admission: $12 day pass for the first child; $10 for the first sibling and additional siblings are $8
5-visit passes, 10-visit passes, monthly passes and Family VIP memberships are also available
Online: littlebeanscafe.com/Evanston

Will you visit this new play gym? Let us know in the Comments!

— Kelly Aiglon

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A New Splash Pad & Playscape That’s Worth the Trip

by Kelly Aiglon

There’s no better combo than a splash pad and playground. Add a covered wagon, wildflower garden and maze of fake animal tracks, and your kid will really be a happy camper. Get ready because you’ll find all of that and more at the new Rita (Fredenhagen) and John Harvard Early Learning Playscape. The attraction for ages 2-7 just opened in Naper Settlement, Naperville’s outdoor living-history museum that’s all about the pioneer days.

Pump Up the Water Fun
The main attraction is the splash pad, which you’ll find in the shadow of a real-sized covered wagon (one of the playscape’s many charming nods to early settlers and pioneer history). The entire area, particularly the splash pad, is thoughtfully designed for younger kids and those with a broad spectrum of capabilities. No ginormous geysers or bucket dumps here — the splish-splashing is tame and all in good, gentle fun.

In a contained area, you can enjoy what feels like a big sprinkler party. Kids maneuver mini cannons to spray water, while ground jets shoot water skyward. There’s even a re-creation of an old-fashioned pump; jiggle the handle to send water streaming down a chute, and fill cups and bowls along the way.

Play & Learn
There’s plenty more to do after you’re all splashed out. A re-creation of a pioneer village — complete with a trading post stocked with fake food — sits beside the sprayground. Climb to the top of the fort-like play structure and take the winding tube slide down. Or camp out on top and peer through a periscope or telescope to spy on what’s happening below.

Naper Settlement is an educational attraction aimed at showing kids what life was like back in the 19th century. The same spirit is alive at the playscape, where you can follow animal tracks embedded in the concrete; there are seven different kids of animal tracks (plus wagon and human tracks!) and the fun is guessing which is which. Next to the slide they’ve built a smaller-scale replica of Fort Payne, a lookout center that was built during the Black Hawk War of 1832 and sat where downtown Naperville is located today. Even at the trading post there are lessons to be learned, as a panel points out what type of goods (metal tools, blankets, beads) were swapped during that time.

While You’re There
The fact that the playscape is just one part of a 12-acre living-history museum — where costumed interpreters roam, tell stories, and demonstrate skills like blacksmithing and weaving — makes this spot worth the drive. (From Chicago it takes about 45 minutes to an hour to get to Naperville.) The Settlement’s quiet, uncrowded paths lead you on a journey into historic homes and buildings, including a one-room school house, log cabin, print shop, chapel and mansion. Interpreters have obvious passion for sharing what they know about this time in history, and they tailor their talks so they’re age-appropriate and exciting for just about anybody they meet.

If you’re looking for a day of play in what feels like the colorful pages of a history book, this is a great place to go. Enjoy!

Harvard Early Learning Playscape
at Naper Settlement
523 S. Webster St.
Naperville
630-420-6010
Online: napersettlement.org

The Playscape is open during regular Summer Season hours, from April 1-October 31: Tues.-Sat., 10 a.m.-4 p.m. ; Sun., 1-4 p.m. (Closed Mon.)

Entrance into the Playscape is included in your museum admission: $12/adult; $10/senior (62+); $8/youth (4-12). Those under 4 years, Naperville residents and Naperville Heritage Society Members are free.

What have you heard about this awesome new spot? Let us know in the Comments!

— Kelly Aiglon

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