ML Interest Tag: wish-list

The City’s Best Places for Santa Photos

by Allison Sutcliffe

Dress the kids in their very best and head to one of our favorite places for Santa photos, Seattle parents

It’s that time of year again, Seattle families. Time to dress the kids in their holiday best (be it a festive dress or plaid jacket) and head out in search of the cutest Seattle Santa pictures around. Here’s how to plan your annual holiday photo shoot at one of our favorite places to snag a Santa photo in Seattle, holiday wish list in hand. Say cheese!

1. Nordstrom Downtown Santa - Santa Lane

Your annual pilgrimage to see Santa at his ornate shop at the downtown Nordstrom is back on for 2022. That's right, after three years, Santa will once again return to the Downtown Nordstrom window on 6th and Pine to greet fans and take gift orders from kids of all ages. Photos will be printed on-site, and reservations are not available. 

Good to Know: If waiting in line downtown isn't your speed, kids can also see Santa over brunch at Nordstrom stores throughout Washington. Make reservations soon for this area favorite.

Insider Tip: Get there early in the season or on a weekday, if you can, to avoid the long lines (you know they'll be big this year).

Dates: Nov. 25-Dec. 24, 2022
Online: nordstromrsvp.com/festiveexperiences

2. Snowflake Lane Factory - Bellevue Square Santa 

There are more than a few ways to celebrate the holidays on the Eastside this year, and Bellevue Square Santa pictures are just the beginning. Schedule your sit down with the Big Guy at Snowflake Lane Factory on the second level. It's by appointment only, and you can count on Santa spending QT with the kids while checking his list. Plan your Santa appointment in the evening to enjoy the nightly parade and occasional snow showers that add a touch of magic to the season at Snowflake Lane. If you're able, stop by the Holiday Wishing Tree in center court to pick up a tag and support a local family in need.

Dates: Nov. 25-Dec. 24, 2022
Event details

3. Magnolia Santa Photos

Get out your grins because the 14th Annual Magnolia Santa photos are back. Families (including your fur babies) can book an appointment on the weekend or Thursdays to have a sit down with Santa. He'll take the time to figure out whether your kids are on the naughty or nice list before striking his jolliest pose. You can do a few different poses, so you can mix things up a bit here and when all is said and done, you'll get 10-20 images sent over in matter of days. Don't forget to stop at the Nutty Squirrel for gelatto when you're done! Masks are optional here.

Dates: TBD for 2022
Online: magnoliasantaphotos.com

Related: Dazzling Light Displays for Seattle Families

Santa photos seattle include this santa atop the Space Needle pictured next to his clear sleigh
Space Needle

4. Santa at the Space Needle

Jolly St. Nick returns to the Space Needle in his all-glass sleigh! Venture out onto the world's first and only revolving glass floor to meet Santa and the Needle’s professional photographers will snap your free digital photo for the ultimate holiday photo op. Here’s when Santa will be at the Space Needle.

Dates: Weekends, Nov. 25-Dec. 24, 2022
Online: spaceneedle.com/holidays

5. Magic at the Market

If a chance to shop for great local products and snag a free Santa photo while you're at it is part of your holiday to-do list, head to Pike Place Market for some holiday Magic. Santa will be under the iconic Market clock taking pictures with visitors before he heads off to help light the tree. Then he'll be back on Dec. 3 and 4 with Crafty in tow (the magical snow monkey, of course) to take more pictures with his fans.

Date: Nov. 26, 2022
Event details

Related: 10 Can't-Miss Holiday Attractions in Downtown Seattle

6. University Village

In his own cozy cabin near Room & Board, the University Village Santa is a Seattle favorite for a reason. Not only do families get to visit him in a private, cozy cabin that makes kids feel extra special, but parents can sneak off to do some covert holiday shopping while they're there. Schedule time to visit online and plan to arrive with about five minutes to spare before your appointment. While you’re there (and if you’re able) families can give a Winter Wish to a child in need. How? Just pull a tag from a Winter Wish tree. Then return your purchased, unwrapped gift to the house. 

Dates: Nov. 25-Dec. 24, 2022
Online: uvillage.com

7. Swanson’s Nursery

Families can find St. Nick at a his cabin in the Cafe building at Swanson's this year. He’ll be waiting to meet your little elves and have a quick convo with your crew before snapping that holiday photo you came for. Families will need to schedule online before heading over. While you're there, enjoy watching the train make its rounds (this year's theme is a Child's Imagination) and check out the great light displays, including dinosaur Humphrey who looks great in photos. 

Dates: Nov. 12-Dec. 23, 2023
Online: swansonsnursery.com

Related: From Sound to Shore: Where to Watch the Christmas Ship Festival

black santa in seattle meets kids at the Northwest African American Museum
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8. Wing Luke Museum - C-ID Santa

Asian American Santa is back at the Wing Luke Museum for 2021! While he was safe at home last year, he's happy to make his way back to sit with children and put on his best smile. You'll need to schedule photos in advance and things will move quickly (time slots are 3 minutes long!) when you get there. Please remember to bring proof of vaccination for anyone over 12 (negative tests will not be accepted) and masks for anyone over the age of 2. Spots are filling up quickly, so grab yours soon!

Date: Dec. 3, 2022
Online: wingluke.org

9. Northwest African American Museum

Black Santa is back and will be safely chatting with kids on December 19 and 20 at the Northwest African American Museum. Reservations will be part of the safety protocols in place, so make yours as soon as information is available. While you're there, be sure to check out this holiday market too. Keep up the joyful tradition this year!

Date & Time: TBD for 2022 (usually the first week in Dec.)

10. Kirkland Urban - Frostival

All those in favor of pictures with Santa in a snow globe raise your hand. Then head to Kirkland Urban on a Saturday afternoon to snap one starting the weekend after Thanksgiving. That’s when families will find Santa ready to take pictures with your best-dressed kiddos. Our favorite part? The lifesize Gingerbread Suite kids get to walk through to get to the Big Guy in Red.

Dates: Saturdays, Nov. 26-Dec. 17, 2022
Event details

Related: Merry, Merry! 10 Eastside Holiday Happenings for Families

11. Redmond Town Center

Your mask won’t hide your smile when your kids get to meet Santa at this favorite spot on the Eastside. You'll find this jolly old elf at Redmond Town Center where he sets up shop in the Center Street Plaza. There are five Santas to choose from this year, each with a belly that shakes like a bowl full of jelly and a twinkle in his eyes. So pick the Santa (and day) that works best for your family and make your reservation soon.

Insider Tip: Psst.. schedule later at night and catch the Redmond Lights while you're there.

Dates: Nov. 25-Dec. 24, 2022
Online: redmondtowncenter.com

12. Holiday Magic Village at Pacific Place

Two Christmas icons will be waiting to greet your kids at this new-this-year interactive display at Pacific Place downtown. Jolly Old St. Nick will be there to greet kids with open arms and a joyful laugh. But so will reformed Christmas bad guy, the Grinch. Schedule your photo online with one of these icons for the perfect holiday remembrance. They take the picture, you find the frame.

Dates: TBD for 2022

13. Alderwood Mall

According to local parents, the Alderwood Mall Santa wins for "most authentic” and we couldn't agree more. They’ve had the same Santa here year after year, which is really convenient for taking those holiday photos as the kids get older (and wiser). And who can resist Santa's awesome and adorable outfits? Book time with this popular Santa online (recommended). They also have a pet night and sensory-friendly Santa experiences here. 

Dates: Nov. 11-Dec. 24, 2022
Online: alderwoodmall.com

Mike Arney via unsplash

14. Issaquah Reindeer Festival

If meeting Santa and seeing his reindeer sounds good to you, reserve your spot to do both at the annual Issaquah Reindeer Festival at Cougar Mountain Zoo. Picture this: Santa sitting atop his festive sleigh while your cute kiddos, dressed in their holiday best, perfect that winning smile. Sounds like a holiday card in the making to us. Be sure to visit with the other animals while you're there too. Although the Reindeer Festival goes through the end of December, Santa will only be there for photos through December 23.

Good to Know: You can still visit with Santa's reindeer at the zoo from Dec. 26-30, 2022.

Dates: Dec. 1-23, 2022
Online: cougarmountainzoo.org

15. A Victorian Country Christmas

Santa isn't the only thing you'll see when you head south to the Victorian Country Christmas at the state fair grounds. In fact, you and the kids can enjoy more than 500 exhibits decorated to look like Victorian shops with thousands of unique holiday gifts, handcrafted items and great specialty foods items. Professional entertainment is featured on two stages, and kids will flock to Santa’s Village. Why? Because it's where they can have their photos taken with Mr. Claus and send wishes in the Magical Mailbox.

Dates: Dec. 1-4, 2022
Online: thefair.com

Related: Where to Find Seattle's Coolest Ice Skating Rinks This Winter

16. More Mall Santas 

Arthur & Associates, the local photographers behind santaphotos.com are working hard to make Santa photos safe this year. In addition to spots listed above, you can find them at the Commons at Federal Way, Lake Forest Park Town Center, Renton Landing and the Everett Mall. The best part? You can check out photos and schedules of all of the Santas online. Just like online dating, but better! So if you really like the look of Santa Bob, you can book accordingly. And here’s a special note for nostalgic natives: the original Frederick & Nelson Santa displays can be found at Town Center at Lake Forest Park, so if you were one of those kids who had a series of F&N photos lined up at Grandma’s house, here’s your shot at keeping that holiday tradition alive.

Dates: Nov.-Dec. 2022
Online: santaphotos.com

17. Special Santa Experiences

Kids can also climb aboard a vintage train car to visit with Old St. Nick. It's a clickety-clack excursion they won't soon forget. Book your ticket on the Yuletide Express that departs weekends from Snoqualmie. It’s an abbreviated train ride (just 25 minutes), but kids will get to see Santa and receive a little gift too. It's ho ho ho awesome. For a real adventure, we're talking overnight, put Leavenworth on your winter travel list.  can’t go wrong visiting Santa at the Leavenworth Reindeer Farm, where kids can meet his friendly reindeer (and feed them by hand, too!). Reserve your Farm Tour with a side of Santa starting in December to get that picture. 

Related: The Unforgettable Reindeer Experience You Need to Book Now

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Barbie’s New Tina Turner Doll Sports the Singer’s Most Iconic Look

by Karly Wood

Barbie’s newest doll pays homage to the Queen of Rock ‘n Roll

The Barbie Signature Music Series just got a new inductee: Tina Turner. The “Queen of Rock ‘n Roll” is the fifth artist to be inducted into the special series and in perfect timing with the 40th anniversary of her hit, What’s Love Got to Do With It.

To craft the perfect Tina tribute, the company brought on Barbie Principal Designer Bill Greening. “Let’s just say Tina has been on my wish list for a very long time,” he tells Mattel. “We started it right about the time she was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.”

Greening made sure the new Barbie had all the details and is styled in an outfit straight from the music video for What’s Love Got to Do With It. Tina is outfitted in a black mini dress, a denim jacket, black pumps and of course, her signature hairstyle.

Related: Barbie’s 2022 Día De Muertos Collection Is Stunning

tina turner barbie
Mattel

To bring the doll to life, Barbie and Greening worked with Tina herself. “She was very involved in the design process,” he says. “And the ‘What’s Love’ look was the choice right from the start.”

“I am honored to welcome my Barbie into the group of trailblazing women already represented and introduce more kids to my journey,” Reuters quotes Turner.

Related: Barbie Pays Tribute to Madam C.J. Walker with New Doll

tina turner barbie
Mattel

“I think this doll pays a great tribute to such an iconic performer” says Greening. “I was pleased to hear that this doll brought tears of joy when Tina received her sample.”

You can purchase your own Barbie version of the Grammy-winning, chart-topping singer, and one of the best-selling recording artists of all time for $55 at mattel.com and Walmart.

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It’s a “Par”-ty! Celebrate Mini Golf Day With Golf Swag for your Minis

by Kate Cartia

Not to be confused with National Miniature Golf Day, which is celebrated the second Saturday in May, Miniature Golf Day is celebrated today, September 21st! We think the mild early fall weather makes it the perfect time to check out your local mini golf course with all your caddies, or gather the whole crew and create your own mini golf course at home. Either way, you’ll want to check out our list of golf swag faves to get into the spirit!

product image of flamingo-shaped golf set
Fun.com

Flamingolf Golf Set

$17 BUY NOW

We can't think of one good reason why we don't need these, especially since this Flamingolf set will help us perfect our Wonderland game (yes, we know, they were playing croquet in Alice in Wonderland, but it's not Croquet Day). This set has everything you need for putting in pink.

set of child's wooden mini golf set
Fat Brain Toys

Putt-n-Play Wooden Golf Set

$35 BUY NOW

Five numbered obstacles and two holes can be set up in a playroom, bedroom, or backyard, so your kiddo can feel like a pro right from home!

baby pajamas with hat in golf print
Macy's

Baby Golf Coverall & Hat Set

$13 BUY NOW

Start them young with this adorable baby coverall set with little hat!

JCPenny

Kids PGA Logo Baseball Hat

$15 BUY NOW

They can show their love of the game both on and off the course with this bright and breathable PGA baseball hat!

Target

The Coolest Golf Encyclopedia For Kids

$13 BUY NOW

Kids and adult beginners will reference this encyclopedia over and over again! With history, rules, terms, and more, new golfers will become immersed in the game before they even get on the course.

Nike

Nike Club Skirt

$50 BUY NOW

Swing in style in this sporty skirt from Nike! Designed for movement, including built-in shorts, sweat-wicking fabric, and even pockets, this skirt is one of our favorites.

set of six LED golf balls
Amazon

Glow in the Dark LED Golf Balls

$21 BUY NOW

Strengthen your evening game with these ultra-bright LED golf balls!

Amazon

Golf Practice Net

$80 BUY NOW

Serious golfers can practice safely with this practice tent! It includes one large target and three chipping targets, so they can swing as long as they want!

If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.

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When He’s Not the Best Husband—but He’s Still a Good Father

By Tammy Letherer

I had been divorced for a couple of years when my former husband called with a surprise. Thankfully, it wasn’t the type of surprise he delivered the night he sat me at the table and told me he had been unfaithful for more than a decade and was leaving me for someone he met in Las Vegas.

No, this surprise had to do with our 12-year-old son. He said he was taking him to China for a vacation. I got that feeling you get when you walk in on a conversation, and everyone is laughing and looking at you like you know what they’re talking about.

China?

How had this come about? I searched my memory for some mention of anything remotely Chinese on my son’s wish list. Had the two of them been to see the First Emperor’s Terracotta Warriors on display at the Field Museum? Or taken a school field trip to Chinatown that I didn’t know about?

The only connection I could come up with was my son’s collection of Pokemon cards, but those are Japanese.

“Um… that would be cool, I guess,” I said, still processing the random nature of his declaration. By the time I gathered my thoughts enough to pose some questions and concerns, he announced that he had bought tickets to travel during a school week and over days that were technically mine on the parenting schedule.

“I can’t change it,” he said. “If I do, I’ll have to pay $1,000 and I know you don’t want that.”

What I didn’t want was to be told what to think or how to feel. An immediate, familiar pressure gripped my chest as I recalled all the activities and decisions that had already occurred behind my back. That he would plan something so extravagant for our son without discussing it with me felt too unfair. I was already struggling with the realities of co-parenting our three children, still getting used to the myriad ways a divorced mom must learn to let go as she is eased out of her job.

After college, I worked as a secretary in London for a few months and learned that, rather than firing people, workers are “made redundant.” It means the same thing but sounds so much nicer. I’ve been made redundant as a mother—no longer needed or useful in all the ways I once was.

This shows up in small ways:

Tell me about your science project. “I don’t want to talk about it. I told dad all about it.”

Want to see the new Marvel movie? “Sorry, mom, we saw it with dad.”

Guess what? I got pizza for dinner! (A chorus of groans.) “We had pizza two nights in a row with dad!”

And in big ways, like feeling helpless and broken during that stretch when my daughter called, in tears, begging to come home every time she was at her dad’s. Or having no words of comfort when my boys expressed their anger about their dad’s girlfriend moving in.

All of those impotent moments were triggered again by the thought of my son flying halfway around the world without me. I imagined him sleep-deprived and anxious from the long flight, wandering lost in a crowded street market, even starving, thanks to his finicky diet.

Overprotective? Maybe. But once your trust in someone is so completely shattered, how do you patch enough of it together to cover some areas and not others? I believe my kids’ dad is, as a parent, loving and devoted. But I believed that about him as a husband, too, and I was wrong.

I don’t blame myself for being guarded. I believe that any mother who has ever experienced betrayal would likely volunteer to go through it again rather than see her kids suffer a similar disappointment. At the same time, I have to be careful not to color my kids’ experiences with my disappointments. For me, this meant smiling while I packed a suitcase and waved bon voyage to my baby. It also meant feeling genuine happiness when my baby returned unscathed, unperturbed and a little more worldly.

Yes, I have learned some wonderful lessons on this road back from betrayal.

Here are the big ones.

Respond rather than react.

One of the best decisions I made early in the divorce process was to treat negotiations as business agreements and relegate them to emails rather than phone calls. That way, I can take my time and formulate a clear-headed answer on my timeline. Reacting equals losing power. Responding equals reclaiming power.

Have your facts straight.

In the case of the China trip, I assumed that my son couldn’t be taken out of the country without my permission. But when I checked our parenting agreement, I saw that my former husband only needed written permission from me for the first 24 months following the divorce. Wow. That shocked me, but there it was, in black and white.

Gathering the facts gave me time to gather my thoughts enough to get clear about my objections and whether they were ones I had a right to make. As galling as it is to have to follow rules with a rule-breaker who broke your heart, do it anyway.

Come from a “well-fed” place.

This is the juicy center, the meat inside the sandwich. Everything revolves around my ability to get quiet, tune in and take responsibility for my inner world. What are my motivations? Is this about me or my kids? Am I fighting for the sake of fighting? Am I settling an old score? Am I bored, lonely or craving drama? I need to look at whether I’m feeding myself what I need rather than entering into a “hungry” exchange with my former husband.

Of course, life, in its perfection, always provides us with opportunities to practice these skills. I had another chance when our daughter turned 13 and her dad decided it was her turn for an extravagant trip—to Thailand. This time I was prepared.

My response? Don’t forget your sunscreen.

Oh, and bring me back a Buddha.

Originally published in June 2018 on She Does the City.

RELATED LINKS
Dear Husband: I Need More Help from You
When Divorce Is the Only Answer
Why I Stopped Overcompensating for My Kids’ Absent Dad

Tammy Letherer is an author, writing coach and blogger. She holds a degree in Journalism from Indiana University and has enjoyed a long, varied professional writing career. She is the author of a memoir, The Buddha at My Table (release date October 2018) and a novel, Hello Loved Ones. She lives in Chicago with her children.

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Donating Used Toys in the Bay Area

by TaLeiza Calloway-Appleton

It’s always a good time to give back to your community. Why not give back, declutter your closets and toy bins while helping the planet at the same time? We’ve gathered a list of places where you can used toy donations support great causes and families in need. Everybody wins!

San Francisco

Parents in business is Otter
iStock

ToyCycle

Looking to offload some of your pre-loved toys to another family in your community? ToyCycle is perfect and offers peer-to-peer toy recycling where you post available items and arrange for pick up and vice versa if you see an item that you can use. They even have an app that makes it easy to post the items that you'd like to pass down. Note: Items are sorted by age to make it easier to find what you need.

Online: toy-cycle.org

SCRAP
Old objects find new lives at SCRAP, the Bay Area's first re-use center for creative education. Donations of art supplies, craft supplies, toys, textiles and office supplies are sorted, stored and made available to the community for educational programs and creative projects in the classroom and at home. SCRAP accepts donations of clean, reusable materials Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Check online for a full list of accepted materials and call ahead to ensure that they have enough storage space to accept your donation.

801 Toland St.
San Francisco, CA
Online: scrap-sf.org

Salvation Army
The Salvation Army Family Store and Donation Center in San Francisco accepts used toy donations, books and children's clothing. Mon.-Sat., 9 a.m.-7 p.m., and Sun., 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Donated items are sold in the Family Store and the proceeds are used to fund the Salvation Army's Adult Rehabilitation Centers. You can even schedule a pickup!

3921 Geary Blvd
San Francisco, CA
Online: salvationarmyusa.org

Edgewood

Editor's Note: Edgewood Center for Children and Families has moved from San Carlos to San Francisco.

New Location Alert! The Edgewood Center for Children and Families has moved but is still providing treatment and prevention programs to children, youth and families that have experienced traumatic stress. Show your support by donating to their wish list that includes art supplies, gently used tablets, personal care items, sports equipment, household items, books, dolls, puppets, toy trucks and games in new or excellent condition. Donations are given directly to clients.

1801 Vicente St.
San Francisco, CA
Online: edgewood.org

A boy plays with a toy giraffe
iStock

Goodwill
Goodwill in San Francisco accepts donations of household items, women's clothing, men's clothing and children's items including books, baby gear (must meet current safety standards), sports equipment, games and toys. Drop off hours are Mon.-Sat. 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sun. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Donated items are sold in Goodwill stores and the proceeds are used to fund programs that help disadvantaged individuals learn competitive job skills and find employment.

1669 Fillmore St.
San Francisco, CA
Online: goodwill.org

Homeless Prenatal Program
For over 30 years the Homeless Prenatal Program in San Francisco has been serving as an empowering resource center for families. The center accepts gently used baby and maternity clothing, children's and parenting books. COVID-19 Update: The program is ONLY accepting baby formula, baby food, diapers and wipes at this time. Call for drop-off hours. You can also make a cash donation online.

2500 18th St.
San Francisco, CA
Online: homelessprenatal.org

SF Smiles
SF Smiles collects donations by appointment only of new and gently used essentials for individuals and families in need throughout the San Francisco Bay Area. SF Smiles is run on a volunteer basis by Chad Christensen out of his family home in the Inner Sunset neighborhood of San Francisco. Chad and his volunteers redistribute donations directly to families and also work with many local organizations to reach their programs’ clients.

Online: sfsmiles.org

East Bay

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BANANAS

Editor's Note: BANANAS is not accepting on-site donations at this time. Visit their Virtual Boutique to learn how to help those in need.

BANANAS provides affordable child care, workshops, classes and support groups for families in Northern Alameda County. Their BANANAS Boutique provides low-income parents with free books, toys and equipment for their children. Your donations of clean and gently used toys, books, puzzles, games, children's clothing and maternity wear keep the boutique stocked up. Items can be dropped off during business hours. Due to limited space, the BANANAS Boutique occasionally reaches storage capacity, so call ahead before heading over.

5232 Claremont Ave
Oakland, CA
Online: bananasbunch.org

Davis Street
This organization assists families in need by addressing issues facing low-income families and the homeless. In addition to gently used clothing, the organization also accepts household items, backpacks and school supplies in the fall as well as new toys for its holiday program. Donation hours are Mon.-Tues. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. COVID-19 Update: Only donations of in-kind donations of unexpired non-perishable canned food are being accepted.

3081 Teagarden Street
San Leandro, CA
Online: Davisstreet.org

Loved Twice

Loved Twice is a nonprofit organization that supports new mothers by providing them with baby clothing. They accept baby clothing sizes 0-12 months only and can also take small blankets and board books. Loved Twice has several Bay Area drop-off locations for your convenience. Visit their website to see if there’s a location near you and make a donation today!

Online: lovedtwice.org

Salvation Army
The Salvation Army Family Store and Donation Center in Alameda accepts used toy donations, books and children's clothing, Mon.-Sat. 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Donated items are sold in the Family Store and the proceeds are used to fund the Salvation Army's Adult Rehabilitation Centers.

1918 Park St
Alameda, CA
Online: salvationarmyusa.org

Goodwill
Goodwill in Oakland accepts donations of household items, women's clothing, men's clothing and children's items including books, baby gear (must meet current safety standards), sports equipment, games and toys. Drop-off hours are Mon.-Sat. 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sun. 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Donated items are sold in Goodwill stores and the proceeds are used to fund programs that help disadvantaged individuals learn competitive job skills and find employment.

2925 E. 14th St
Oakland, CA
Online: goodwill.org

Peninsula

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Goodwill
Goodwill in Palo Alto accepts donations of household items, women’s clothing, men’s clothing and children’s items including books, baby gear (must meet current safety standards), sports equipment, games, and toys. Drop-off hours are Mon.-Sun. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Donated items are sold in Goodwill stores and the proceeds are used to fund programs that help disadvantaged individuals learn competitive job skills and find employment.

4085 El Camino Way
Palo Alto, CA
Online: goodwill.org

PARCA
PARCA helps people with development disabilities and their families at all stages of their lives, from children’s services to independent residential programs to respite care. Through a partnership with Saver’s Stores, PARCA turns used clothing and household item donations into funds that support their programs. Requested items include toys, games, puzzles, stuffed animals, bicycles and sports equipment, as well as clothes and household items. Donors can schedule a donation pick up over the phone and online, or drop off donations at Saver’s Thrift Store in Redwood City or Milpitas, during store hours.

800 Airport Blvd., Suite 320
Burlingame, CA
Online: parca.org

CORA

This organization supports families escaping intimate partner abuse. Their needs include diapers, new clothing, umbrellas, strollers and more. They run seasonal school supply drives. You can view their wish list here and drop off donations at their office. COVID-19 Update: CORA is currently not accepting donations of goods. Check their website for updates.

2211 Palm Ave.
San Mateo, CA
Online: corasupport.org

South Bay

LifeMoves
LifeMoves provides interim shelter and services for families. Linens, towels and blankets are among the family shelters' greatest need. Household supplies such as towels are also needed for incoming residents. View shelter wish lists here and consider making a donation today.

184 South 11th Street
San Jose CA
Online: lifemoves.org

Salvation Army
We moved! The Salvation Army Family Store in San Jose is now located on West Taylor Street. It accepts used toy donations such as books, bikes, games, stuffed animals and children's clothing, Mon.-Sat. 9 a.m. to 8p.m. and Sundays 10 a.m.-6p.m. Donated items are sold in the Family Store and the proceeds are used to fund the Salvation Army's Adult Rehabilitation Centers.

702 W. Taylor St.
San Jose, CA
Online: salvationarmyusa.org

Santa Maria Urban Ministry

Santa Maria Urban Ministry was founded in 1983 to provide emergency food to impoverished families in downtown San Jose. Santa Maria has provided a food pantry continuously for 38 years and also collects donations of clothing and goods for families in need. In addition to clothing and care items, there is a need for school and craft supplies. Learn more about their wish lists and make a donation.

778 South Almaden Avenue
San Jose, CA
Online: santamariasj.org 

Marin

iStock

Salvation Army
The Salvation Army does more than just ring bells and accept change! Their Family Store and Donation Trailer in San Rafael accepts donations Tues.-Sat. 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. Donated items are sold in the Family Store and the proceeds are used to fund the Salvation Army's Adult Rehabilitation Centers.

350 Fourth St
San Rafael, CA
Online: salvationarmyusa.org

Goodwill
Drop off your used toy donations, household items, women's clothing, men's clothing and children's items including books, baby gear (must meet current safety standards), sports equipment, games and toys at Goodwill's Drop Off Center, located inside the Mill Valley Safeway on Camino Alto. Drop off hours are Mon.-Sun., 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Donated items are sold in Goodwill stores and the proceeds are used to fund programs that help disadvantaged individuals learn competitive job skills and find employment.

1 Camino Alto
Mill Valley, CA
Online: goodwill.org

—TaLeiza Calloway-Appleton and Chantal Lamers

Featured photo: iStock

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Don’t Miss These Portland St. Patrick’s Day Events

by Levi Rogers

Celebrate the return of St. Patrick’s Day to Portland with a fun mix of events that will appeal to everyone in the family. Last year we honored the patron saint of Ireland through mostly virtual means, but this year the celebration will be the best of both worlds—with a hybrid mix of virtual and in-person events across Portland. Join in a parade, watch some traditional Irish dancing and music from your home, or run a half-marathon where a 12 oz. pour of beer awaits you at the finish! Read on to find out more.

Portland St.Patrick's Day Parade

Photo by Johnny Cohen on Unsplash

The 33rd Portland St. Paddy's Day Parade returns live and in person! The parade will start at 1p.m. sharp and the meeting point is at the Fernwood/Beverly Clearly School in NE Portland (33rd and Hancock). The parade has been a tradition since 1990 in the Portland area and this year marks an especially welcome return to a cherished local Irish tradition here in Portland. It's a great event for the whole family to participate in!

Mar. 13, 1 p.m.
Online: Event Details

Shamrock Run and Fitness Fair

Photo by Miguel A. Amutio on Unsplash

The Shamrock Run is the crown jewel  or "Pot of Gold" of the St. Patrick's Day celebration here in Portland. It's a fun race with a plethora of options for runners and walkers of all abilities. From a kid-friendly "Leprechaun" 1K lap, to distances of 5k, 8k, 15K, Half-Marathon, and a 4 mile "stride," the Shamrock Run has something for all abilities and ages. Perhaps there are no pots of gold beneath rainbows (at least that we've found in Oregon), but there is a medallion (possibly gold), that awaits you after your run plus, a bowl of Bob's Red Mill oatmeal, and 12 oz. pour of beer! Check out the website for info on registration and race start times. A fitness fair will also take place at the Oregon Convention center on Friday March 11 and Saturday March 12 before the race begins on Sunday.

Mar. 11,12 & 13 
Online: Event Details.

Portland’s Annual Virtual St. Patrick’s Day Celebration

Photo by Clay Banks on Unsplash

On Thursday March 17th celebrate St. Patrick's Day with the All-Ireland Cultural Society as they host a variety of local Irish dancers, singers, musicians, (and bagpipes) on their Youtube channel. The event is completely free (although you can make a donation). 

You can head to their Facebook page for sneak peaks and updates leading up to the event. It will be a St. Patrick’s Day to remember!

Mar.17
Online: Event Details.

St. Patrick’s Day Golf Tourney at Edgefield

Photo by Markus Spiske on Unsplash

Golfers of all skill levels and ages are welcome at this friendly, individual-format, 20-hole tournament on Edgefield's par-3 Pub Course. Adults can grab an Irish Stout to start the day and win prizes for on-the-course contests. Purchase tickets online or at the Edgefield Gift Shop. 

Weds., Mar. 17, 12 noon check-in; 1 p.m. start time
$35/ participant
All ages welcome

Edgefield Golf Course
2126 S.W. Halsey St.
Troutdale, OR

Online: Event Details

McMenamin’s St Patrick’s Day, All Locations

Photo by Patrick Fore on Unsplash

Enjoy one of McMenamins’ classic seasonal brews and hear live music during St. Patrick’s Day Across the Land, a casual weekend celebration at several participating locations throughout Portland. Kid-approved favorites on every menu make dining out at McMenamin’s an easy and affordable option for celebrations like this one. Check the website to find a location near you and more details. McMenamin pubs, restaurants and bars are open for takeout, delivery, outdoor dining and most with limited indoor seating. Please call ahead to see what the best and safest option is for your family. 

Mar 17, 18, 19 times vary
Many participating locations
Online: Event Details.

Virtual Tour of Blarney Castle

Photo by Mat Reding on Unsplash

If you've ever dreamed of traveling to Ireland it's very likely that Blarney Castle is on your wish list. Blarney Castle is a well preserved 15th century building located in the small town of Blarney Ireland. This enchanting castle is one of Ireland's oldest and most historic making it a fascinating place to explore. There are many myths surrounding this castle including one that if you kiss the Blarney Stone you'll be granted the gift of gabbing! While travel is made much more challenging these days the internet allows us to take adventures all over the world. This St. Patrick's Day gather round the kids and take a virtual tour of Blarney Castle! 

Online: blarneycastle.ie

St. Patrick's Day Crafts and Science Experiments

Photo by Jess Bailey on Unsplash

A little green food coloring can go a long way! Check out some of these amazing St. Patrick's Day crafts and science experiments. Or look for our guide on how to catch a Leprechaun. While it was once true that leprechauns only lived in Ireland they have since naturalized all over the world in parks, the woods, and gardens. All you'll need to do is gather up a few materials, including a cardboard box or shoebox, a stick (or pencil in a pinch), a pillowcase, and food and trap your very own leprechaun. Follow three easy steps outlined

 

 

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Saved by a Dog Named Stormy

by Kurstin Christie

Like so many children, my son’s interest in dogs started when he was young. The excitement he felt when he saw a dog resulted in squeals of delight and eventually evolved into begging, pleading and being the number one present on his wish list. As animal lovers ourselves, my husband, Eric, and I started seriously weighing the pros and cons of getting a dog. Eric was all for it, but juggling a career, family and everyday responsibilities already had my head spinning. Adding a dog into the mix seemed like it would push our family into further chaos. 

On September 7, my husband died unexpectedly. Nothing could have prepared me for the heartbreak, fear and grief that followed. My loss wasn’t the worst of it. The most gut-wrenching pain comes from seeing my son experiencing the same feelings. In a day, our world was turned upside down, and there was nothing I could do about it. 

Suddenly, our once vibrant home was too quiet. The void left by my husband’s absence was immeasurable and undeniable. My son buried himself in his iPad and me in my phone. He played Roblox, while I mindlessly scrolled through Instagram. 

One day, four months later, my son said, “You know, dad promised me a dog when I turned 9.” Gulp. This was a pivotal moment. What do I do with that information? I was just learning how to navigate life as a newly single parent. That alone was overwhelming. And to adopt a dog in the mix? I was at a fork in the road, and I didn’t know what to do. My son had been so closed off since he lost his father. I closed my eyes, took a breath and told my son we were adopting a dog. 

He beamed with excitement as we drove to pick up our new pet while I tried to manage the self-doubt and panic running through my head. It all happened so fast. We pulled up to the house, I signed the paperwork, put the dog in the carrier and was back on the 405-freeway heading home. In less than 30 minutes, Stormy joined our family. 

I was so focused on the added responsibility of owning a dog that I never considered the precious moments Stormy would bring. I didn’t realize how much she would help us emotionally. My son and I traded screen time for playing on the floor. We attended training classes together. We were so proud when Stormy learned her name. We laughed to tears when she stole chicken off the kitchen table. We feel so much love for her when she shows us she misses us by pulling our clothes downstairs to a certain spot.  

I’ve watched my son become more confident because of Stormy. He’s more comfortable talking to people who want to pet her and has learned it’s important to think about someone other than yourself. For me, her snuggles calm me, and her daily walks get me outside, no matter how low I’m feeling. What can I say? I’m happy I threw caution to the wind and listened to my son. We needed Stormy. I’m a convert: and 100% certain that dogs are worth it.   

Stormy celebrated her 2nd birthday this month. 

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Fill a Child in Need’s Christmas Wishlist with USPS’s Operation Santa

by Erica Loop

The U.S. Postal Service is in on the best Secret Santa action ever! Through USPS Operation Santa, you can gift a child in need with something off their holiday wish list.

Every year children from across the country put pen to paper and write out a hopeful list of possible presents. While many of these would-be gifts end up under the Christmas tree, many go unanswered.

photo: Mike Arney via Unsplash

Low-income families who need money for necessities, such as rent or food, can’t always fill their kiddo’s Santa lists themselves. Here’s where the USPS and you can help. Through Operation Santa you can make a difference in a child’s life, giving them the Christmas of their dreams.

So how can you help a child this holiday season through the USPS? Visit the USPS Operation Santa website and browse letters from hopeful children. Choose a letter to adopt (or a few), fill the wishlist, wrap the gifts and bring them (plus the necessary postage) to a participating post office by December 18, so kids can receive them by Christmas.

Here’s a bit more info on how the program works: the USPS receives thousands of letters to Santa every year and scans them, with personal information hidden. Once they’re live on the website, people like you can adopt the letters and help Santa fulfill their wishes! The gifts are shipped on behalf of the North Pole so you can deliver holiday magic together.

—Erica Loop

 

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