Being a San Francisco parent means you have a big heart and killer calves: you’ve hiked to the top of Nob Hill with a toddler in tow and we’re betting you’ve been on MUNI one too many times while pregnant. If you’re looking for boy baby names or girl baby names, from the Bay Bridge to Ocean Beach, we’ve revisited our favorite city’s streets and neighborhoods for some adorable baby name inspiration. Read on for the list!

Alma

Alma de Bretteville Spreckels was an old-school SF socialite and philanthropist who—along with her husband Adolph—gifted the city many an iconic institute including the Legion of Honor. Most famously, though, she’s the model for the statue in the middle of Union Square (Dewey Monument).

Andreas

There’s no reward without a little risk, and SF residents know that the San Andreas fault runs right through our city. It keeps us on our toes, like your little guy might! 

Angelou (or Maya)

The famous poet, activist and author who was awarded over 50 honorary degrees in her lifetime, was also the first African-American streetcar operator in San Francisco.

Ashbury

You have to be okay with a certain “aesthetic” to name your kid after this iconic street but you’ll likely get a free-thinker on your hands. Plus we think Ash is just the cutest nickname.

Bart

What could be more SF than naming your kid after the Bay Area Rapid Transit train?

Bay

The city by the bay couldn’t get more recognizable in this local name that also makes a perfect middle name, too.  

Broderick

You know it as the street, but did you also know it’s the last name of an abolitionist senator who died as a result of a wound inflicted during the last known duel within the boundaries of SF? Well, you do now. 

Cesar (or Chavez)

Both names pay homage to Cesar Estrada Chavez, a fierce fighter for civil and labor rights who co-founded (along with Dolores Huerta) National Farm Workers in 1962. You also know it as the name of what was once known as Army Street.  

Charlotte

For Charlotte L. Brown, who was one of the first people in the US to legally challenge racial segregation. In the 1860s Charlotte was removed (by force) from a horse-drawn street car for being a person of color. She filed a lawsuit. It took several years, but in 1865 she won.

Clayton

One of San Francisco’s lovelier streets, it’s also one of the shorter streets, starting at Fulton and winding its way up Ashbury Heights toward Twin Peaks where it affords some pretty stunning views.  

Clement

Home to a diverse array of foods and one of the best neighborhood farmer’s market in the City, we love the idea of naming a kiddo this and calling him Clem for short. Name for Roswell Clement who is often credited for the idea of creating Golden Gate Park.

Cliff

For something with a little versatility, this “regular” name comes from the iconic Cliff House (did you know they have the best breakfast biscuits in the West?). The Cliff House burned down in 1907 but was rebuilt, and rebuilt again to become the more modern structure that stands today.

Cole

Cole Valley has a rep for being one of the most kid-friendly hoods in the city, so why not name your kiddo for it, too?

Dolores

It’s not just a beautiful street name or your favorite park. It’s the namesake of the first mission in SF (which is also home to one of the only cemeteries within the city proper). Even more fun, it’s also the name of Dolores Huerta, who fought for migrant worker rights and co-founded National Farm Workers in 1962.

Duboce

This street and park are part of every N-Judah rider’s commute. Named after a colonel in command during the Spanish-American War (Victor Duboce). As long as you pronounce it right, you’ve got a sweet-sounding name that has a Parisian tinge to it.

Francisco or Francis

This is probably the most overlooked but most obvious name for any kid hailing from our city’s boundaries.

Gavin

Most people recognize him as Governor of California, but once upon a time, Gavin Newsom was our fair city’s mayor.

Geary

Why choose Gary when you can go with the totally San Francisco variation, Geary? One of the longest, cross-town streets in the city, Geary Blvd. takes you from Market Street all the way out to the ocean (and so does the 38!).

Harvey

Harvey Bernard Milk was the city’s first openly gay official, elected to the Board of Supervisors in 1951. Today we remember Harvey Milk for his courage and tenacity in standing out by standing up—a true San Francisco attitude. 

Hayes

It’s a valley, it’s a street and at one time was the last name of a prominent SF family. We think it would be an adorable first name, too.

Jack (London, Kerouac, Hirschman)

This classic name has plenty of SF-appeal: Jack London spent quite a bit of time in San Francisco throughout his years living at Beauty Ranch in Glen Ellen; Jack Kerouac became an adopted literary son of the city through the Beat Generation and Jack Hirschman was named SF Poet Laureate in 2006.

Juana

Want to name her something fierce? How about naming her after Juana Briones y Tapia de Miranda, the first female property owner in the state of California. She was born in Santa Cruz, of Spanish and African descent, and raised in the Presidio where she became known for being a healer and midwife.

Kamala

Before she was Vice President of the United States, Kamala Harris was San Francisco’s District Attorney from 2004 to 2011. She was born in Oakland and received her law education both at Howard University in D.C. and right in SF at the Hastings College of Law. 

Karl/Carl

If you’ve lived in SF anytime in the last decade, you likely follow Karl the Fog on Twitter. If not, newsflash: after all these years, our beloved fog has its own name. The “C” variant is also an SF street name.

Lawrence 

The founder of City Lights, the iconic North Beach bookstore and world-renowned publishing company, Lawrence Ferlinghetti turned 100 in 2019. To celebrate, the city of SF declared his birthday, March 24, officially “Lawrence Ferlinghetti Day.” Name your kid after this guy and we can promise spontaneous poetry will become a household thing. 

Leola

Leola King, aka the Queen of Fillmore, opened her first nightclub in the 1950s, back when Black-owned and women-owned businesses were scarce. She became a highly successful businesswoman and owned several properties and nightclubs, including the Birdcage. Her clubs hosted greats like Louis Armstrong and Ella Fitzgerald, helping establish the Fillmore District as the Harlem of the West.

Lillie

This perfectly sweet name has a pretty fierce backstory: Lillie Hitchcock Coit was a champion of SF firefighters and the benefactress who gave us the iconic Coit tower. Known also as Firebelle Lil, she was considered an eccentric woman who smoked cigars, wore pants (back when ladies weren’t supposed to) and gambled in male-only houses around North Beach.

Lombard

You love this crazy, curvy street every time your tourist relatives insist on snapping photos in front of it. It also makes a snazzy first or second name for a boy or a girl.

Lotta

The nickname of Charlotte Crabtree, Lotta was raised in the foothills of Grass Valley, CA during the gold rush where she honed her theatrical skills. Though she did perform frequently in San Francisco, her real legacy is Lotta’s Fountain—at Market and Kearny, the site of annual gatherings every April 18 to commemorate the Great Earthquake of 1906. Lotta frequently donated the money she earned as a stage performer for charities or to beautify the city she loved so well. 

Lowell

Lowell High School is the oldest public high school west of the Mississippi. It was founded in 1856 as the Union Grammar School but became Lowell in 1894. Though it was separated by genders for a time in its early history, Lowell High School was open to both boys and girls 1866.

Marina or Marin 

If you like the neighborhood you’ll love the name, but don’t forget it also means “of the sea” so it’s fitting for an SF kiddo no matter their zipcode. Alternatively, you could go with Marin, for our neighbors to the north.

Noe

Named for José de Jesús Noé, he served twice as alcade (essentially, a mayor) of Yerba Buena. One of his last acts while serving—along with Lt. Bartlett of the US Navy—was to officially rename Yerba Buena as San Francisco. At one time he owned land that covered much of what we now know as Noe Valley, Eureka Valley, Fairmont Heights, Glen Park and Sunnyside.

Posey

While he’s not a native SF-er, Giants catcher #28, Buster Posey, is as iconic an SF name as they come.

Vicki 

Vicki Manalo Draves was born in San Francisco, Vicki was the first woman ever to win two gold medals during one single Olympics. In 1948, not only did she receive two gold medals in diving, she also became the first Asian American ever to win a gold medal.

William or Willie (Brown, Leidesdorff, Mays)

Willie Brown was the 41st mayor of San Francisco and the city’s first-ever African American mayor. William Leidesdorff was an African-American who sailed to SF from the Virgin Islands in 1841 and became a respected, prominent businessman and politician. Willie Mays, one of the greatest baseball players of all time, spent his primary years playing (14 years) playing for the SF Giants (you’ll find his statue in front of AT&T—we mean Oracle—park). 

Make sure to capture all the adventures with your little San Franciscan—and share them with your family and friends near and far—with the Tinybeans app. The secure platform puts parents in total control of who sees and interacts with photos and videos of their kids.

Get your supply of white sheets ready, because you’re going to need them for a few of these last-minute Halloween costumes

Feeling frightened that it’s almost trick-or-treating time, and you don’t have your kid’s costume ready yet? Check out these easy last-minute Halloween costumes for kids. Many of them can be made with things you have stashed in your closets and dress-up bin, and take less time to make than it takes to eat a supersized candy apple.

Ghost Costume

This has to be the easiest costume of all time. Buy a new white sheet, cut out the spots for the eyes and mouth, and you’re done!

Gold Medal Last-Minute Halloween Costume

Your kiddo can be an Olympian in less time than it takes to sing the national anthem. Pull out a tracksuit, or a leotard if you’ve got a gymnast at home, then dig out a medal from a fun run or a 5k. Have her throw her arms in the air and give a cheer for this easy DIY Halloween costume!

DIY Strawberry

Strawberry last minute halloween costume
Pretty Life Girls

Five supplies are all you need to make this sweet strawberry from Pretty Life Girls. After a quick trip to the craft store, you can whip up this no-sew costume that is adorable, but more importantly is comfortable for kids and adults, too!

Jane Fonda

Primary

Legwarmers, a pair of leggings, and a onesie are all you need to get your heart rate pumping with this DIY aerobics instructor costume. Bigger kids can swap a swimsuit for a onesie. We love that the key ingredients for this costume can be worn again. If you're itching to do a little crafting, check out Primary's DIY felt boombox to take this costume from low-impact fun to step aerobics queen.

Related: 17 Incredibly Clever Cardboard Box Costumes

Baby Shark

Hellow Wonderful

Cardboard, gray and white paint, and sharp scissors are all you need to make this easy DIY Halloween costume. Bonus: a fierce shark costume comes with a soundtrack that all the trick-or-treaters will be singing, "do do do." Find out how you can make one of your own over at Hello Wonderful. Check out more of our favorite cardboard box costumes here.

 

Last-Minute Mummy Costume

This version might look complicated, but the very easy DIY option requires a white sheet, coffee, white underthings, and not much else! Check out a stress-free tutorial here.

Ballet Dancer

Iiona Virgin via Unsplash

Dig into your kiddo's dance bag, and you'll find the key ingredients for a ballerina costume. Add a fancy updo and voila: you have a future New York City Ballet dancer costume. If you don't have a tutu, check out this easy, no-sew DIY tutu tutorial.

Bubble Gum

Jeff Mindell via Studio DIY

Chew on this cute DIY costume! Gather up balloons, felt, and silver ribbon: that's about all you need to create your own bubblegum costume. While this version features a pink dress, we think a pink t-shirt would work just as well for a kids' Halloween costume. Find the step-by-step instructions at Studio DIY.

Related: Family Halloween Costumes That Are a Freakin’ Delight

Basic Monster

Amber Gutebier

Dig out an old pair of pants and your trusty black Sharpie for this easy DIY Halloween costume. With a snip of scissors and a light coat of green makeup, you'll soon have Frankenstein's monster lurching out your front door. Get the tutorial here.

 

Bath Time

Cheerful and Co Via Primary

Clear and white balloons pop all over a set of white PJs for this easy DIY Halloween costume—it's bubble bath time on the go! Primary has all the instructions so you can make your own, and then take that rubber ducky for a spin around the block.

Emoji

Hello Wonderful

Pick your kiddo's favorite emoji and whip up this cute Halloween costume that's easy to customize. You'll be running after your smiley face trick-or-treating in no time. Hello, Wonderful shows you how you can make your own with not much more than cardboard and paint.

 

Trolls

Doranda Woestman via Watch Out for the Woestmans

Pull out a brightly colored skirt or a tutu and a light t-shirt or leotard, and your little ones will soon be trolls. The awesome hair-dos look impressive—but they're easy to pull off when you follow blogger Doranda's DIY tip. Troll or treat!

Related: Halloween Costumes for Girls Who Aren’t into Princesses

Paper Doll

Slapdash Mom

With not much more than a big piece of poster board, you can create a perfect paper doll costume. We love that this easy DIY Halloween costume costs way less than a pumpkin spice latte while still being extra eye-catching. Follow the step-by-step directions at Slapdash Mom.

Stick Figure

All for the Boys

This clever stick figure costume from All for the Boys is sure to get lots of laughs. We love that it's easy, affordable, and eye-catching. 

Star

Brit Co

Make your star a constellation this Halloween. Brit + Co's adorable, sparkly costume relies on a gold ribbon and glittery duds that your kiddo probably already has in her closet. They recommend using craft foam for the head-topping star—but cardboard plus gold paint will also work in a pinch.

Baby Doll

Hart Sew

This adorable wind-up doll is guaranteed to be one of the sweetest DIY costumes you'll find. Plus it's easy and cheap to make it yourself. Find how you can turn your toddler into a doll at Hart + Sew.

Related: 20 Halloween Costumes for Twins (Older Siblings & Parents, Too!)

Cat

last minute cat halloween costume
Paging Supermom

In less time than it takes to do the Monster Mash, you can make an adorable black cat costume. Paging Supermom calls it her Super Easy Kitty Cat Costume—and we couldn't agree more. It's a sweet option for preschoolers who change their minds about their costumes at the last minute. See our other favorite cat costumes here

Morton Salt Girl

last minute Morton Salt girl Halloween costume
Brit Co

We love this Morton Salt Girl costume because it's cute, clever, and takes almost no time to pull together. An extra bonus—since it relies on regular clothes, there's nothing that'll make sensitive kids uncomfortable while they're on the hunt for candy. But remember, as Brit + Co will tell you, the container of salt is a key accessory.

Jellyfish

A Casarella

This unusual animal costume is simple to make and packs a big punch. Dig out an umbrella and ribbon, then swim over to A Casarella to learn how to make your own easy jellyfish costume. We love her clever tip that'll give this daytime costume a spooky nighttime glow.

Cowboy (or Girl)

Dust off that denim, wrangle up a pair of boots and top it all off with a plaid shirt and a ten-gallon hat. You’ll have everything you need to be a cowgirl or boy costume—minus the horse, of course. If you’ve got a pool noodle left over from summer fun, you can turn it into a horse ready to ride off into the sunset. Yee Haw!

Pirate

Pirate Treasure Hunt
iStock

Shiver me timbers! It's easy to pull together a last-minute pirate costume. Grab a striped shirt and wrap a bandit around your kiddo's head. Pull out a pair of old pants and cut off the hem, using some shark teeth-style zigzags If you'd like a little extra flair, add eyeliner, a pile of necklaces, and make your tiny Blackbeard a cardboard cutlass. Don't forget to check our guide on how to talk like a sailor!

Athlete

RODNAE Productions via Pexels

Calling all sports fans! Dig out your kid's fave jersey—whether it's football, hockey, or basketball—and in no time you'll have a sporty Halloween costume. You can add an accessory like a helmet or a hockey puck, a swipe of festive face paint, and then get out the door. Candy's waiting!

Scientists, chefs, activists, dancers, and poets—our Bay Area history is full of inspiring women you’ll want to learn all about!

The Bay Area wouldn’t be the place of innovation, creativity and activism that it is today were it not for many of our trailblazing women. Keep reading to celebrate their accomplishments which have transformed the Bay Area and motivate your little trailblazers to set out on their own quest for a better world! 

Maya Angelou

Creative Commons

Renaissance Woman, 1928-2014

Chalking up dozens of awards and over 50 honorary degrees, Maya Angelou has worn many hats—from nightclub performer and Porgy and Bess cast member to fry cook, sex worker, and Civil Rights activist. She is best known for her written work—particularly her poetry and her memoirs spanning a series of seven autobiographies, including I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings. Before Amanda Gorman there was Maya Angelou, who became the first female inaugural poet in 1993.

Interesting fact: In 1944, after dropping out of San Francisco’s George Washington High at 16, Maya Angelou set her sights on becoming a cable car operator. She wanted the job because she admired the uniforms, but at first she was refused an application. She sat in the company offices every day for two weeks until she was hired, becoming one of the first Black cable car operators in San Francisco.

Juana Briones

Founding Mother, 1802-1889

Often referred to as “The Founding Mother of San Francisco,” Juana Briones was born near Santa Cruz, of mixed Spanish and African descent. Many of her family members arrived in Alta California with the de Anza and de Portola expeditions. Briones, a midwife, herbal medicine healer, and successful entrepreneur, gave birth to 11 children and adopted one. In 1844 she was granted a clerical separation (almost unheard of at the time) from her physically abusive and alcoholic husband. The same year she purchased the 4,400 acre Rancho La Purisma Concepcion in present day Palo Alto and Los Altos Hills. Through the late 1850s and 1860s she successfully fought in court to retain the title to her land in San Francisco and Santa Clara Counties.

Interesting fact: Juana Briones was killed in a cow stampede in the then city of Mayfield, now part of Palo Alto. There is an elementary school and park named for her in Palo Alto.

Charlotte L. Brown

Wikimedia Commons

Justice Seeker, 1839-?

Before Rosa Parks there was Charlotte L. Brown. She was the plaintiff in one of the earliest civil rights cases in California after being forcibly removed from a whites only horse-drawn streetcar near her home on Filbert Street in San Francisco in 1863. Brown won her case and was awarded $25, and later in criminal court the conductor was convicted of assault and battery against her. Only three days after the first trial she was ejected from a streetcar again, and once more filed suit against them, winning again. The Black-owned newspaper, the Pacific Appeal, noted at the time that the verdict “establishes the right, by law, of colored persons to ride in such conveyances.” Charlotte L. Brown’s case paved the way for similar cases that challenged the segregationist policies of private streetcar companies, culminating in an 1893 ruling officially outlawing segregation on state streetcars. The case was one of the first of several brought by Black activists in the U.S. against segregation and exclusion in the 19th and 20th centuries.

Interesting fact: Brown’s father was born enslaved and her mother, a free seamstress, purchased his freedom. They lived as Free People of Color in Baltimore in 1850, before moving to San Francisco and becoming part of the city’s burgeoning Black middle class.

Dominique Crenn

Creative Commons

Lyrical Chef, 1965-

Dominique Crenn elevated the San Francisco dining scene to the world stage after becoming the first female chef in the United States to earn three Michelin stars at her eponymous restaurant, Atelier Crenn. Lines of poetry literally accompany each course and her exquisite food is presented like an elaborate work of art. Her one Michelin-starred wine bar, Bar Crenn, is also a red hot attraction. Known for her creative modernist menus as well as her uncompromising vision, she is acclaimed as a chef and a business leader. 

Interesting fact: Crenn is engaged to Coyote Ugly and NCIS star, Maria Bello.

Isadora Duncan 

Creative Commons

Innovative Dancer, 1877-1927

Isadora Duncan, the “Mother of Modern Dance,” brought her unique free-spirited and untrained style to the field of ballet. Her ideas spread across the U.S. to Europe and the Soviet Union, and helped bring about modern expressive dance. Duncan was born in San Francisco and raised in Oakland, which is where she met Florence Treadwell Boynton. Boynton created a home and dance school in the Berkeley Hills that reflected Duncan’s dance style which was influenced by Greek art and sculpture with dances in flowing tunics. This Greek collonaded “Temple of Wings” helped solidify Berkeley’s turn-of-the-century reputation as the Athens of the West.

Interesting fact: Not only was Isadora Duncan one of the most innovative and internationally renowned dancers of her time, she also leaves behind the lesson not to wear a long scarf while riding in a car. She was strangled after it became entangled in the rear wheels.

Dian Fossey 

Creative Commons

Gutsy Naturalist, 1932-1985

San Francisco-born Dian Fossey attended U.C. Davis and San Jose City College before travelling to Rwanda where she spent 18 years studying the endangered mountain gorilla. Her “war on poaching” is generally credited with reversing the downward trend in the animal population, which reached a low of 250 in 1981. In the process she made a lot of enemies and was found brutally murdered in her cabin in 1985. Fossey made huge contributions to the study of mountain gorilla behavior and a movie was made based on her best selling autobiography, Gorillas in the Mist.

Kamala Harris

Vice President of the United States, 1964-

Born in Oakland, Kamala Harris served the people of California for many years as Attorney General for the state of California (2011-2017) and U.S. Senator (2017-2021). In 2021 she was inaugurated as vice president.  She is the United States' first female vice president, the highest-ranking female official in U.S. history, and the first Black and first Asian American vice president. After securing her historic win for Vice President of the United States, Kamala Harris heralded, “I may be the first woman to hold this office. But I won’t be the last.” 

Louise Lawrence

Consciousness Raiser, 1912-1976

After marrying twice and spending the first 30 years of her life as a low key young man named “Lew,” Louise Lawrence was finally able to fully embrace who she was on the inside and moved from Berkeley to San Francisco to begin living full time as a woman. She placed personal ads and regularly scanned the newspapers for cross dressing arrests in order to find other trans and gender non-conforming people.

Lawrence started assisting at the U.C.S.F. Langley Porter Clinic and lectured to the doctors there in order to convince them not to classify being transgender as a mental disorder. Her work at U.C.S.F. put her in touch with Dr. Alfred Kinsey in 1948 who had recently released his book, Sexual Behavior in the Human Male. By then, Louise Lawrence had amassed a network of nearly 200 trans people across the United States and decided to share their stories with Kinsey. She felt that gender variance was missing from his first book, and she directly facilitated its inclusion in his follow-up works. Without Lawrence’s efforts it likely would have been left out.

Interesting Fact: Louise Lawrence housed strangers travelling cross country to San Francisco to undergo gender confirmation surgery and also counseled them.

Julia Morgan 

Creative Commons

Prolific Architect, 1872-1957

After graduating from Oakland High School and then U.C. Berkeley near the turn of the twentieth century, Julia Morgan became the first woman admitted to a prestigious architectural program in Paris, and in 1904 the first woman in California licensed to practice architecture. A project assigned to her by Phoebe Hearst to improve one of her estates led to a meeting with her son, newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst, and her most famous commission—Hearst Castle.

She was one of the leaders in the Bay Area Arts and Crafts Movement and her buildings can be found all over the Bay Area, including the Berkeley Women’s City Club; several buildings at U.C. Berkeley including the Hearst Greek Theater and the Women’s Gymnasium; six buildings at Mills College including El Campanil, the Margaret Carnegie Library, and the Student Union; the Julia Morgan Ballroom at the Merchants Exchange Building; numerous YMCAs; and the redesign of San Francisco’s Fairmont Hotel. In the course of her career, she designed more than 700 buildings, and in 2014 she became the first woman awarded the AIA Gold Medal for Architecture.

Isa Noyola

Wikimedia Commons

Trans Crusader, 1978-

Bay Area-raised Isa Noyola, is a Latina transgender activist and deputy director of the Transgender Law Center, the largest transgender-led civil rights organization in America. She organized the first national anti-trans violence protest in 2015, with over 100 activists—particularly trans women of color—protesting the violence trans communities face. Noyola also founded and serves as a national advocate for El/La Para Translatinas which seeks to improve the quality of life for TransLatinas in the Bay Area. She is a tireless activist in the LGBT immigration rights movement, advocating for transgender women being detained at ICE detention centers.

Amy Tan

Wikimedia Commons

Heritage-Inspired Writer, 1952-

Oakland-born Amy Tan, author of The Bonesetter’s Daughter, The Kitchen God’s Wife, and most famously her best-selling novel, The Joy Luck Club, was often inspired by her mother’s stories of growing up in China. The Joy Luck Club became the most prominent example of Asian Americans on screen for a quarter century. (This writer saw a scene from the movie adaptation being filmed at U.C. Berkeley.) 

Interesting fact: While pursuing a doctorate in linguistics at U.C. Berkeley, Tan’s best friend and roommate was murdered. She was asked to identify the body, and the shock of it all left her temporarily mute and prompted her to leave school and become a speech therapist for children.

 

 

Whether it’s close to home or when you’re exploring a new place, there is something magical about visiting a farm with children. Not only does it tell the story of the local culture, but according to Gail Melson PhDa leader in the field of human-animal interaction—it also gives kids an opportunity to learn about resiliency, empathy and real-world perspective. Turns, out, being an animal-lover matters. Enchanted by these real-world lessons and their own farm experiences, Maddy Darrall and Billy Macqueen created the sweet new Apple TV+ original series, Lovely Little Farm. The show is all about sisters who navigate daily life on the farm (including talking animals!) and the various lessons they learn. Check out the farms that inspired the executive produces’ sweet new series—from Nigerian dwarf goat farms in Maine to farms in the UK that focus on helping disadvantaged youth—these special spots are a must-visit on your next agricultural adventure. And the best part? There’s always something new happening on the farm—no two visits are ever the same—guaranteed.

Bocketts Farm, Leatherhead, Surrey
Lovely Little Farm creators Maddy Darrall and Billy Macqueen have been taking their kids to this award-winning farm for years. What began as a working sheep and cow farm, has evolved to include a ton of fun, family activities and family-friendly events. From chicks to llamas, there is, of course, loads of animal encounters to be had but there is also outdoor playgrounds, a young driver’s zone for tractor enthusiasts as well as trampolines and water balloon battles during warm, summer months.
Online: https://bockettsfarm.co.uk/

Vauxhall City Farm, London
This local London city farm was started in the late ’60s and is where Macqueen still takes his grandson to visit the animals—they’re all here—from llamas and chinchillas to rabbits and sheep. What’s extra special about this spot is that it’s the closest to London (Big Ben can be heard from here!) and is empowering local communities to experience nature to “enhance their health, well-being as well as provide a range of educational, recreational and therapeutic activities.”

Online: vauxhallcityfarm.org

Hackney City Farm, London
This free-to-visit farm provides kids and adults the opportunity to get up close and personal with a range of farm animals, help plant vegetables, volunteer and join mini-farmer’s clubs as well as join classes like pottery (for a small fee).

Online: hackneycityfarm.co.uk

Surry Docks Farm, London
Located on a former wharf on the banks of the Thames, this working city farm and charity welcomes the community to learn more about farm, food production and the natural environment. Add to that fun seasonal fairs, community projects, and, of course, animals galore make this a must-stop. Don’t miss the farm shop where you can purchase farm fresh eggs, meats and produce.

Online: surreydocksfarm.org.uk

Kentish City Farm, London
The first city farm established in the United Kingdom, this 4.5 acre spot runs educational sessions on seasonal produce, a riding program (temporarily on pause due to railway construction), a wildlife pond, goats, sheep, chickens and geese, three horses, two donkeys, a couple of pigs named Wilma and Betty, a cow named Shirley, plus various small animals. And don’t forget to say hi to the two farm cats, Gracie and Mr. Grey.

Online: ktcityfarm.org.uk/

Mudchute Park and Farm, East London
Part of the original London City Farms network, this community charity with a working farm, children’s nursery and a wide range of education activities is set within 32 acres of countryside in the heart of East London. Macqueen has fond memories of this special farm—when he worked next door, two of their two prize pigs escaped and snuck into the nearby superstore, clearing all the shelves of loaves and sandwiches and snacks. They caused such havoc it made the national news!

Online: mudchute.org

Jamie’s Farm
This farm-based organization focuses on helping disadvantaged 8-15 year olds in addition to hosting regular school visits. And according to Macqueen and Darrall, this farm has made such an impact on the lives of children and teenagers in the UK that it should receive every gold medal recognizing their contribution for making lives better. Jamie’s Farm is comprised of a smaller city farm called Oasis Farm Waterloo, as well as a four larger working farms based in Herord (Wales), Monmouth Wales, Bath (West England) and Lewes (South England). Jamie’s Farm acts as a catalyst for change, enabling disadvantaged young people to thrive academically, socially and emotionally.

Online: jamiesfarm.org.uk/

Millers Ark Farm, South West England
Recently awarded a Traveler’s Choice Award, this is the farm where stars of the show actually live! Head over here to visit with Bif and Bop (the two goats that used to live in the house), Barbara (a gorgeous sheep), Little Lamb and the chickens—that all luckily call this farm home. They were guaranteed a forever life, and according to the executive producers, “No roasting tin for any of them thank you very much.”

Online: facebook.com/millersark

Blackstone Clydesdales, Scotland
The Blackstone Centre was established to share the passion and knowledge about the Clydesdale Heavy Horses—a Scottish rare breed. Here, visitors can learn about their lives on the farm and witness first hand these magnificent animals. Located in southwest Scotland, Macqueen took his daughter Megan to visit this special spot for a holiday trip and it became one for the memory books.

Online: blackstoneclydesdales.co.uk

Hall Hill Farm County Durham, North England
Darrall has visited this award-winning farm for children, with her two boys during a holiday trip and can’t recommend it enough. With over 700 acres to explore, kids will delight in the endless possibilities—from lamb feeding and rabbit handling to tractor ride and crazy golf, it’s a great day out for children.

Online: hallhillfarm.co.uk/

Odds Farm Park, Bucks, South England
Odds Farm Park is approved by the Rare Breed Survival Trust thanks to housing and breeding rare animals—from ponies and donkeys to rabbits and guinea pigs. But that’s not all this farm offers—there is indoor play (great for rainy days!) and loads of outdoor play including an adventure fort, mini golf and a seasonal water play with water pumps, channels, streams and pools.

Online: oddsfarm.co.uk/

Baylham House Rare Breeds Farm, Suffolk, East England
Located in the Suffolk countryside, Baylham House Farm is where co-creators Darrall and Mcqueen have spent loads of time with their families. Here you can spend the day getting up close and personal with the animals, picnicking (either bring your own or order from their newly-opened shop), and sit by the river to enjoy the local wildlife. What makes this farm extra special? It specializes in native breeds that were once common but are now very rare like White Park cattle, Greyface sheep (producing the heaviest fleece around) and Middle White pigs—historically raised in large quantities to supply London with pork. There is an entrance fee but each child receives a bag of feed upon entry.

Online: baylham-house-farm.co.uk

Sunflower Farm Creamery, Cumberland, Maine
This small, Nigerian Dwarf Goat Creamery in located in Maine and while the creators didn’t get a chance to visit it in-person, they fell in love with the farm online—providing lots of laughs thanks to their adorable pygmy goats. In addition to welcoming visitors, don’t miss purchasing farm-fresh chevre and cajeta (available May through Jan.), attending a cheese class or simply learn more about why Nigerian Dwarf goats make great milking goats.

Online: sunflowerfarm.info/

3 Reasons Why It’s Important for Humans to Have Animal Encounters

Dr. Gail Melson has spent her career studying the connection between humans and animals and can prove that connecting with farms and their animals enriches children’s lives in three distinct ways.

1. Children can see where their food comes from. This gives children a greater appreciation of the natural ecosystems in which plants and animals are nurtured and ultimately, how products show up in grocery stores and meals show up in restaurants.

2. Time spent in nature, in fields, meadows and pastures, has been shown to have calming effects both physically and psychologically, for both children and adults.

3. Nature sounds, sights and smells provide a rich sensory experience.

“When children observe and respectfully interact with animals, it provides them the opportunity to learn about the ways other creatures move, think, feel and live,” says Dr. Melson. Adding, “Such learning can be enhanced by adults who point out differences and similarities while, at the same time, giving children time and space to connect with animals. This process can help children develop ‘perspective-taking,’ the ability to imaginatively experience the world from a perspective different from one’s own. Animals, because they are other species, present children with the challenges of understanding very different (from themselves) ways of being.” 

Dr. Melson emphasizes that perspective-taking is a building block for developing empathy, the ability, not just to perceive, but to feel what another is feeling, that empathy is essential for a more civil and kind human community, but it also is important as a foundation for stewardship of the planet and our fragile ecosystem. She says, “Empathy is a motivator for learning and caring. In this way, when children develop empathy for other animals and for the natural environments essential for their survival, children are more likely to care about animal protection and welfare. Since children will grow up to be the future stewards of our planet, building perspective-taking and empathy toward all living creatures is crucial.”

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It’s Women’s History Month, and there’s no better time to give major props to some of the legendary women who come from or have made Texas a better place. From the “mother of Dallas” to the one and only Janis Joplin, our list of inspiring women really give meaning to the saying “Don’t Mess with Texas.” Keep reading to discover more about these iconic females. 

Kacey Musgraves (1988- )

Wikimedia Commons

Born in Golden, Texas, Kacey Musgraves started writing songs at the age of eight. With the help of her family, she released a solo album at the age of 14. After high school graduation, she moved to Austin and, in 2008, was noticed by local producer Monte Robinson. Known for progressive country lyrics, her first solo debut single "Merry Go Round" was on the same album with "Follow Your Arrow," which Rolling Stone magazine listed as 39 in its list of 100 top country songs of all time. She has won six Grammy Awards, is an advocate for the LBGTQ community and continues to create original country music that challenges the genre. 

Sarah Horton Cockrell (1819-1892)

Wikimedia Commons

Considered to be the "founding mother of Dallas," Sarah Cockrell's family was one of the first pioneering families in Dallas county. She was a businesswoman who played an essential role in the development of the city, and at one point, she owned nearly a fourth of downtown Dallas. She and her husband, Alexander Cockrell, owned a ferry service on the Trinity River, a sawmill, and were involved in brick making, construction, real estate. Besides managing all the home duties of the era, she also oversaw the records, handled the money and kept up with the correspondence the businesses required. After her husband was killed in 1858, Sarah took over and expanded the businesses. She was also responsible for the construction of an iron suspension bridge that went over the Trinity, which was a developmental milestone for the city of Dallas.

Bessie Coleman (1892-1926)

Wikimedia Commons

As the first African American and Native American to earn her pilot’s license, Bessie was an early American aviation pioneer. Born to a family of sharecroppers in Atlanta, TX, she worked the cotton fields while attending a segregated school. After developing an interest in aviation, she saved her money and went to France to get her license. Upon her return to the United States, she became a high-profile pilot in dangerous air shows. Popularly known as Queen Bess and Brave Bessie, her life was tragically cut short when she died in an airplane crash in 1926.

 

 

Carrie Marcus (1883-1953)

Wikimedia Commons

Carrie Marcus was an American businesswoman and one of the co-founders of Nieman Marcus, a luxury department store based in Dallas, TX. While she never received a formal education, she was taught at home and spent hours reading German newspapers and European fashion magazines. In 1899, after moving to Dallas, she became a top saleswoman at A. Harris and Company. In 1907, Carrie, her husband Al Nieman, and her brother Herman started Nieman Marcus. The men handled the finances and the logistics, and Carrie, with her knowledge of fashion and department stores, handled the buying. Soon, she was traveling to New York Paris to bring back ready-to-wear fashion to an eager Dallas society. 

The store was a success, due in part to the fact that it carried specialized items that couldn’t be found anywhere else. She established the Neiman Marcus Fashion Award in 1938, which pushed the store into the upper echelons of fashion and couture. In 1950, Marcus became the chairman of the board of directors when her brother died, and she remained involved with the day-to-day decisions until she died in 1953.

Emma Tenayuca (1916-1999)

Wikimedia Commons

Born into a Mexican Comanche family, Emma Tenayuca was an American labor leader, union organizer and educator. Famous for her work during the 1938 San Antonio pecan shellers strike, Tenayuca helped 12,000 workers strike in protest of a wage reduction of one cent per pound of shelled pecans and inhuman working conditions. Later that year, the National Labor Relations Act raised wages to 25 cents an hour. Until and even after her death, she continued to inspire activists, as can be seen in the bilingual book, That’s Not Fair! Emma Tenayuca’s Struggle for Justice.

Janis Joplin (1943-1970)

Wikimedia Commons

One of the most famous musical artists of all time, singer/songwriter Janis Joplin was born in Port Arthur, TX. Known for her mezzo-soprano vocals and electrifying stage presence, Joplin’s music was highly influenced by female jazz greats, like Ma Rainey and Bessie Smith. An outcast at her high school, Joplin eventually attended the University of Texas, Austin, which is where she made her musical debut—her first song “What Good Can Drinkin’ Do” was recorded inside the home of a fellow student.

She left for San Francisco, CA in 1963, where she lived in the Haight-Ashbury district and worked with local musicians like future Jefferson Airplane guitarist Jorma Kaukonen and band Big Brother and the Holding Company. After her breakthrough performance at the 1967 Monterrey Pop festival, Joblin became a worldwide sensation. She performed at Woodstock and released three iconic albums before her death in 1970. She has inspired generations of musicians and singers for generations, including Florence Welch, Pink and Stevie Nicks.

Sheryl Swoopes (1971-)

Wikimedia Commons

Born in Brownfield, Texas, Sheryl Swoopes is a basketball legend. The first woman to be signed on to play for the WNBA, she has been awarded MVP of the WNBA three times, and she’s been named as one of the top 15 league players of all time. She’s won three Olympic gold medals and is one of only 10 women who have an Olympic gold medal, an NCAA championship and a WNBA title. In 2017, she was inducted into the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame.

Her college basketball career took off once she landed at Texas Tech, where, in 1993, she led the Lady Raiders in winning the NCAA Championship. Her jersey was retired the following year, making her only one of three players to be awarded this honor. In 1994 she was named to the USA National Team and went to Australia to compete in the World Championships. In 1997 she was signed on with the WNBA’s Houston Comets and spent 11 years playing with the team. After that, she had a short stint with the Seattle Storm, and then in 2011, after coming out of retirement, at the age of 40, she scored the buzzer-beating winning shot for the Tulsa Shock, ending their 20-game losing streak. In 2017, Swoopes returned to her Alma Matter, Texas Tech, and is still an assistant coach today. 

Mary Kay Ash (1918-2001)

Wikimedia Commons

Yup, that Mary Kay. The Texas entrepreneur was the founder of Mary Kay Cosmetics. She started at Stanley Home Products in the ‘60s, and when Kay was passed over for a promotion (which was given to someone she had trained), she grew frustrated with the challenges women faced in the workforce. She started to write a book in hopes of assisting women in business, and that book turned out to be her business plan for what would become one of the most famous cosmetics companies in the world. Her first storefront location was in Dallas, TX; it was 500-square feet and had nine saleswomen. The business was set up in the “house party” mode similar to what Stanley and other companies such as Tupperware used. She would offer friends facials, and then she would pitch her products, which proved to be enormously successful.

At the time of her death, her personal wealth was approximately 98 billion, and her company had a sales force of over eight hundred thousand in over three dozen countries. Mary Kay Ash received many awards in her lifetime, including receiving the Golden Plate Award of the American Academy of Achievement in 1980 and being inducted into the Junior Achievement U.S. Business Hall of Fame in 1996.

Erykah Badu (1971-)

Wikimedia Commons

A Dallas, TX native, Badu is an American singer-songwriter, and actress and producer. She is a graduate of the prestigious Booker T. Washington High School for the Visual and Performing Arts. Her musical influences include R&B, ‘70s soul and ‘80s hip hop. She’s been compared to jazz legend Billie Holiday and is oftentimes referred to as the Queen of Neo Soul. Her breakout performance was in 1994 when she opened for D'Angelo in Fort Worth, TX. Her first album, Baduzim produced four singles, including classic songs like “On & On” and “Appletree.” She was awarded a Grammy for “On & On,” and the album won Best R&B Album of the year. She went on to record five more albums, several of which have been certified gold, platinum and double platinum. 

Known for her funky style of bold colors, large headwraps and even larger hats, Badu has had a long, successful career in the music industry, as well as in Hollywood. She’s appeared in several movies including Blues Brothers 2000 and The Cider House Rules. Badu splits her time between South Dallas and New York, and she remains extremely active in her hometown. In 1997 she set up the Beautiful Love Incorporated Non Profit Development (B.L.I.N.D), and one of their first ventures was the save and restore the Black Forest Theater. Serving as a community and cultural center in South Dallas, the theater has played host to illustrious musical icons, like Snoop Dog, Jill Scott, Talib Kweli and Questlove.

Jenny Boucek (1973-)

courtesy Jenny Boucek

Dallas Mavericks assistant coach Jenny Boucek is the third female coach in NBA history, and the only single mom coaching in The Association. She was born and raised in Nashville, TN. She played basketball at the University of Virginia from 1992-96, where she helped lead the team to four regular season Atlantic Coast Conference Championships and three NCAA Elite Eight appearances. She was recognized as a GTE All-American and Defensive Player of the Year twice, and she finished her tenure at Virginia with over 1000 points. 

Boucek has enjoyed a long and illustrious basketball career. As an inaugural WNBA player, she played for the Cleveland Rockers in 1997 before an injury ended her career in 1998. She came back as a coach for the Washington Mystics in 1999, spent three seasons with the Miami Sol, and she was an assistant coach with the Seattle Storm when they won their first WNBA Championship in 2004. She spent two seasons as the head coach for the Sacramento Monarchs before moving back to the position of head coach for the Storm. She then made the move to the NBA, where she was an assistant coach with the Sacramento Kings before moving to the Dallas Mavericks. About parenting, she says “I can’t imagine life without my daughter,” and several Mavs players, who were also raised by single moms, can identify with Coach Boucek. 

Edna Gladney (1886-1961)

Wikimedia Commons

Born in Milwaukee, WI, to an unwed mother, Gladney was an early advocate for disadvantaged children in Texas. In 1904, she was sent to stay with an aunt and uncle in Fort Worth; she eloped with her husband in 1906, and they moved to Sherman, TX in 1913. As a member of the Sherman Civic League, Gladney discovered the Grayson County Poor Farm—a spot of abandonment for mentally ill, handicapped and unwanted children. It had abhorrent living conditions, especially for the children, so Gladney spearheaded a campaign to make improvements. She went with other Civic League volunteers to clean it up personally. 

Gladney went on to be an influential member of the Texas Children's Home and Aid Society. With the help of philanthropist Aamon Carter, she was able to secure the first kids’ home for the organization. She lobbied the Texas legislature on behalf of adopted children, and it is that said she personally oversaw the placement of over 10,000 kids. Active until she died in 1961, Edna Gladney paved the way for children’s rights in Texas for generations to come. Gladney's life story was told in the Oscar-award-winning film Blossoms in the Dust.

—Gabby Cullen

 

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Simone Biles appears to have had a gold-medal Valentines Day. The Olympic gymnast, 23, is engaged to football player Jonathan Owens, 26!

“THE EASIEST YES,” Biles wrote on Instagram, “I can’t wait to spend forever & ever with you, you’re everything I dreamed of and more! let’s get married FIANCÉ.”

Owens gets a perfect “10” on the proposal. He staged it under an outdoor gazebo, dressed in a gray suit, got down on one knee and presented Biles with a stunning oval-cut diamond with a delicate, pavé-set band.

From the looks of it, Biles—in a classic but edgy black leather minidress—was overjoyed. The couple celebrated with a kiss and champagne and plenty of photos.

photo: Jonathan Owens/ Instagram
Owens, who plays in the NFL for the Houston Texans, also demonstrated his excitement on Instagram, showing off pictures of Biles sporting his ring, and commenting on her post “Ready for forever with you.” The football player appears to be ready to retire his game off the field in exchange for Biles’ hand, and her teammates—who jumped right in to her comments section to congratulate her—couldn’t be happier. 

Fellow Olympic great Nastia Liukin wrote, “SO FREAKING HAPPY,” and Suni Lee, Biles’ Olympic teammate, shared her excitement, writing, “OH MY GOSSSSHHHH” and “IM SCREAMING IM SO HAPPY 😭❤️❤️❤️❤️.”

We wish the happy couple the very best.

—Shelley Massey

 

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The 2022 Winter Olympics kick off on Feb. 4 and will be must-see TV for families across the world. Don’t want to stop at just watching the games? Go ahead and create your own mini-Olympics right at home. We’ve scoured the web and found 9 ideas on how to host your own bash—torches, games and podiums included. Here’s to letting this year’s golden games inspire the whole family!

Before the Party Begins

Decorate for the Occasion

Small for Big

Get worldly with this DIY flag garland from Small for Big. It's like a geography lesson and a super cool party accessory all in one. Be sure to start the garland a few days in advance so you don't need to rush. It's a project that can keep older kids interested for hours and gives you a chance to talk about the different countries that compete in the Olympics and why each country is special. Travel here for the full tutorial.

 

Set Up Gold-Medal Worthy Snacks

Don't forget to offer up Olympic-themed snacks like ring cookies, bagles and more. See our favorite ideas here

Make Gold Medal Cookies

Cindy Hopper via Alpha Mom

There are gold medals... and then there are gold medals made with cookies. We prefer the latter. The effortlessly creative Cindy Hopper at Alpha Mom shows us how to make these crafty medals for your own Olympic games. Rewarding kiddos with one of these after a long day of competition will be so much fun!

 

After Your Guests Arrive

Be Sure to Have an Opening Ceremony

Kate's Creative Space

Let the games begin! Use these DIY torches from Kate's Creative Space to kick off the opening ceremonies for your at-home games. A lap around the backyard with these "official" torches will have little athletes ready to play.

 

Throw the Javelin

Hoosier Homemade

Broom handles, check. Pool noodles, check. Colorful duct tape, check. Looks like you have everything you need to create your own backyard Olympic Javelin Throw. Get the full tutorial at Hoosier Homemade and watch the kiddos have a blast seeing how many noodles they can get through the target. Isn’t it fun when throwing is not only allowed, but encouraged?!

 

Have a Hurdle Competition

I Can Teach My Child

Watch kiddos get happy with hurdles when you set up this simple hurdle run from I Can Teach My Child. The hurdles are pool noodles and they’re kept in the ground by kitchen skewers so you can easily adjust the height depending on the age and size of the kids. On your mark, get set, go!

 

Have an Olympic Hoop Ring Toss

Makes and Takes

It’s a craft! It’s a sport! It’s a win! The Olympic Ring Hoop Loop from Make and Takes is ideal for kids of all ages and it’s super easy to make. Make all five hoops around the loop from a three to four-foot distance and you’re in the running for a gold medal!

 

Olympic Ring Craft

Happy Hooligans

Little and big kids can make an Olympic ring craft just like the one spotted over at Happy Hooligans. Save your toilet paper rolls or paper towel rolls for the perfect circle shape! Get the tutorial here

Hand Out Medals on the Podium

Project Nursery

How cute is this podium we spotted over at Project Nursery? It's pretty easy to make and will be a fun finish to the day. Be sure to have medals handy, like these you can order in no time. 

 

— Taylor Clifton, Aimee Della Bitta with Gabby Cullen

 

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Gold Medal-Worthy Snacks for Your Olympics Party

You don’t have to be a world-class athlete to get ready for China. First thing’s first: food! Whether you’re hosting an Olympic-themed party or just planning to park yourself in front of the TV and watch the games 24/7, it helps to have some festive fuel. Flip through the slideshow below for Olympics-inspired dishes that score big points for being fun, easy, and tasty, too!

Veggie Torch Cups

Project Nursery

How easy is this fun snack? Cut up veggies, buy some gold torch cups and add ranch for Olympic-inspired bites. See the whole party over at Project Nursery

Olympic Rice Cake Snacks

See Vanessa Craft

Healthy snack alert! We’re loving how these rice cake bites are equal parts tasty, healthy, and customizable (Slather on your fave spread, whether that’s peanut butter, light cream cheese, or another non-nut option.). Adults or big kids can slice the fruits, while little ones can get down with the decorating. Learn more at See Vanessa Craft.

Olympic Rings Pizza

Living Well Spending Less

Pint-sized pizza lovers (and adults, too!) will love making this Olympic-centric pie. The best part? Those Olympic rings are the perfect excuse to add lots of colorful veggies to your pizza. Learn more at Living Well Spending Less.

Olympic Doughnut Rings

Whatever Dee Dee Wants

If celebrating the Olympics with colorful donuts is wrong, we donut want to be right. Whether you make your own homemade donuts or go for store-bought, the key ingredient for these delish treats is a variety of sprinkles. Learn more at Whatever Dee Dee Wants .

Olympic Cookies

Love to Be in the Kitchen

Need a quick and easy dessert to celebrate the Olympics? These cookies fit the bill. Make ‘em from scratch or pick some up at your local store—just don’t forget the oh-so-necessary M&Ms! Learn more at Love to be in the Kitchen.

Oreo Gold Medals

Mirabelle Creations

With just a wee bit of assembly (and zero baking!) you can pass these treats out to the hungry masses or use them as edible awards after your own backyard Olympics. Learn more from Mirabelle Creations.

Olympic Ring Bagels

Baby Budgeting

Talk about the breakfast of champions! We can’t get enough of these colorful bagels—and we’re betting your family will love them, too. Serve them up for a healthy breakfast option and you’ll be ready to face the day! Learn more at Baby Budgeting.

Olympic Torch

Cook with Kids

Thanks to some flat-bottomed ice cream cones, you’ll be able to recreate the passing of the Olympic torch and then munch on your own version of the world-famous flame. In this case, the fire comes in the form of caramel corn—but you can always sub in a healthier option like orange sherbet. Learn more at Cook with Kids.

Froot Loop Snack Mix

Isabella and Zsa Fischer via Unsplash

Separate Froot Loops into the colors of the Olympic rings and mix with your favorite snack mix for a great Olympic-watching treat!

—Taylor Clifton & Abigail Matsumoto

Featured image: Nick Torontali via Unsplash

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It’s fitting that former Olympic gymnast Shawn Johnson East’s second child decided to make his grand entry during this year’s Games! The East family welcomed their new addition last week and they’ve officially shared him with the world. They posted an emotional video of his birth story, plus some adorable new photos that include big sister Drew Hazel.

Baby boy clocked in at almost 10 pounds (officially 9 pounds, 13 ounces) and his birth is documented in an almost nine minute long video on the family’s official YouTube Channel. The caption reads in part “A moment we’ve been excited to share… meet our perfect little baby boy. We are so in love. Momma and little man are doing really well and are healthy and happy. Drew’s loving her new role as big sister and is loving her cuddle time with her little brother everyday.”

The couple also shared a trio of sweet black and white photos to Johnson East’s Instagram account. The new baby is obviously adored by the whole family!

After marrying in 2016, Shawn and husband Andrew welcomed daughter Drew Hazel in 2019. They currently live in Nashville and document their family life extensively on social media. Another gold-medal moment!

—Sarah Shebek

Featured image courtesy of Kathy Hutchins / Shutterstock.com

 

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