It’s been over 25 years since Emma, Geri, Mel B, Melanie C and Victoria started spicing up our lives and now the girls can live on forever thanks to the new LEGO BrickHeadz Spice Girls Tribute set. The best part? This is the first time actual people have been portrayed in BrickHeadz and we couldn’t think of a better set of trailblazing women.
Huge fans of the quintet will probably recognize images of the new set, which looks just like the OG photos world-renowned photographer Rankin took back in his studio in the 90’s. LEGO left no detail behind when recreating the iconic rendering of the Spice Girls and it makes us want to whip our out old CD’s and play “Wannabe” all afternoon.
The new set comes with miniature versions of each Spice Girl, microphones and stands with spot-on hair and clothing. Mel B dons leopard print, Mel C is sporting her signature track suit, Emma is rocking her baby pink dress, Victoria is in all black (she knew what she was doing from the BEGINNING) and Geri tops it off with her Union Jack dress.
LEGO designer Daniel Squirrell shares “There are few bands that defined pop culture in the same way the Spice Girls did back in the 1990s, and it’s been such fun bringing the band to life in our BrickHeadz style.”
You’ll have to wait just a little longer to get your hands on the new LEGO BrickHeadz Spice Girls set. It launches on Mar. 1 for $49.99 at LEGO stores and on lego.com.
It seems like trampoline parks are popping up all over the Seattle area. And with each new opening, a parent smiles knowing their energetic kiddo has a brand new spot to bounce off the walls that’s not in the living room. Whether you and the kids are training to become the next American Ninja Warrior or just looking for a place to burn off some steam, these indoor adventure parks are a great afternoon outing for kids of all ages. Read on to find a new favorite indoor play spot.
New Spots to Know
Flying Squirrel
With one of the best company names out there, Flying Squirrel Sports in Everett opened a few months ago. They call it a “spring-loaded, urban playground like you’ve never seen before,” and they're right. Beyond the wall-to-wall trampolines, families can challenge each other on the battle beam, dunk hoops together like they're pro ballers, spring off the air track, balance on the slack lines and generally get their bounce on. When you've worked up an appetite, swing by the Drey Bar and Café where you'll find a full menu of pizza (including gluten-free), drinks and treats. We love that there's a special spot for tots here (and pricing too). Littles will spend hours climbing, jumping and rolling around toddler soft play park. One thing is for sure, they'll nap after a visit to this new venue.
Park perk: If the kids need a change of pace, check out the on-site indoor mini golf course and arcade.
Another new kid on the block, Catapult Adventure Park might be the grand daddy of all on our list. This mega-size location offers 18 different experiences, some that are familiar and some that are totally new. Inflatables are the name of the game here with everything from the Launch Zone to the Ninja Cat Course to Mt. Catapult and the Leaping Leopard. But you'll also find ball pits, tornado twirls and oversized slides that set this park apart. We're loving Tube-Topia that mixes everything you love about winter tubing but without the snow. Rock climbing walls, zip lines and open courts that invite everyone to jump will tire the kids out whenever you visit. They'll be bouncing from one spot to the next. All you have to do is keep up.
Park perk: Fuel up with pizzas, wings, cheesy bread sticks or sweets on site.
Good to know: There are some height restriction on a few of the attractions. Kids must be at least 42" tall to try the Cat Walk, Cliffhanger, Tube-Topia and Flying Leopard. Also there's an $8 spectator fee if you don't want to jump but still need to hang with the kids.
35025 Enchanted Pkwy. S. Federal Way, WA 98003 253-517-5853 Online:catapultfederalway.com
The Air House Adventure Park
The Air House
The Air House begins with a main court featuring 2,000 feet of trampolines and thousands more fun activities. Activities range from bouldering walls and a laser tag arena to your favorite trampoline park regulars. You’ll also finds log rolls, jousting on the battle beams, a racing zip line and the Valo Jump (think Dance Dance Revolution meets trampoline park). We know your kids will be most impressed (and challenged by) the Wipeout. Inspired from the hit TV obstacle course series of the same name, kids will fall over laughing trying to avoid being knocked off this spot. While walk-ins are welcome, we recommend that you purchase tickets ahead of time. Groups are allowed to play every 15 minutes. Sorry, no outside food can be brought inside, but don't worry, the GrubHouse offers 12” pizzas, sandwiches, hot dogs, fish and chips, mac and cheese and more to satiate hungry tummies.
Park perk: The Softplay area designed for kids 48" and under. It's a multi-level climbing structure where kids can play safely under a parent's watchful eye.
Cost: $8-$30 (Airhouse grip socks are required and are sold separately.) Hours: Wed.-Thu., 5-8 p.m.; Fri., 4-9 p.m., Sat., 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sun., noon-6 p.m.
1101 Outlet Collection Way, #1275 Auburn, WA 98002 253-943-6770 Online:auburn.theairhouse.com
DEFY has taken over Seattle with four locations and a keen eye for planning. These exciting trampoline parks cater to the young and the young at heart (trust us). While each spot has its own unique flair and wicked wall art, families can always count on a fantastic array of trampolines, including wall tramps, air tracks and dodgeball courts. Skills are at the center of each location too. So whether you're working on your ninja skills or your aerial trick skills, kids will find what they need here in the form of launch pads, trapeze bars and cloud swings. Your kids will have a blast trying new circus tricks at every unique play station. Think this park is just for big kids? Think again, check the calendar for Kids Jump, where Littles ages 6 and under get the whole park to themselves so they can bounce without worrying, and so can you.
Park perk: DEFY Nights are a great way to add a little flair to your typical evening routine. Blacklights shine a whole new light on the jumping experience after dark.
Cost: $13-$26
DEFY Seattle 455 Andover Park E. Tukwila, WA 98188 425-669-9707
One of Seattle's OG trampoline parks, Bothell's Elevated Sportz has been entertaining families since they opened almost a decade ago. When it's raining outside, or your kids just need a change of scenery, bring them here to experience 10,000 sq. ft. of trampolines, dodgeball courts, foam pits and ninja courses. While we know the Littles will swoon over the Kidz Adventure play area, rumor has it, big kids love this spot too. It's four stories of ball pits, slides, tunnels, bridge and mazes that'll keep them climbing all afternoon. The great thing about this park is its variety. Kids can choose trampolines, Kidz Adventure or a combo of both, depending on your kiddo's age and the time you've got to play. The park’s iJump Café is also elevated from others, offering a large menu of sharable snacks, burgers, quesadillas, salads and more.
Park perk: For a new twist, try the Laser Maze (starting at $3 for one mission). It's a chance for kids to play spy (or maybe ninja?) as they work their way through the dense laser forest. Will they have the wit and speed to get through in time? You'll have to play to find out.
In our ever-changing world, Vertex Arena wants to be a beacon of hope. A place that connects kids through the power of play, offering a space that is appealing to the eye, whether you are five or 55. Located in Redmond, Vertex Arena offers a little bit of everything with their mix of indoor trampoline park attractions. You'll find lots of trampolines, sure, but you'll also find air basketball, battle beams and a ninja course to tackle (some of these attractions have height restrictions). Big kids can try their hand at Nerf Tag (ages 8 & up) or Arrow Tag (ages 12 & up), while most kids can enjoy the head-to-head-competition of dodgeball (ages 5 & up). The Sideline Social Restaurant and Bar offers a full menu (probably the best on our list) of appetizers, sliders, chicken wings, salads, pizza, cheeseburgers, chicken strips, fish and chips and fantastic-sounding desserts.
Park perk: Check out the new pinball and arcade center that recently opened.
10700 231st Way N.E., #100 Redmond, WA 98053 425-728-7298 Online:vertexarena.com
Pump It Up
In Kirkland, Pump It Up is known as the original indoor inflatable party venue. Although you won’t find traditional trampolines here, there are still plenty of obstacles to climb in, jump on, slide down and generally bounce around on. In fact, when it comes to bouncing around with younger kids, this venue is one of the best. Both the Kirkland and Lynnwood locations are currently offering Pre-K jump sessions for preschoolers and toddlers. And kids of all ages get a kick out of the All Ages Open Jumps. Hours for both vary by location and change weekly. The upside? They're both taking online reservations, so you can plan ahead for an afternoon of off the wall fun with your stir crazy crew. Psst... Family Jump Night is back at both locations. Check the online schedules to plan your next family outing.
Park perk: Pump It Up has long been a reliable indoor birthday party spot for kids. Both locations offer birthday party packages for 10-25 kids, and are available every day from 8 a.m.-9 p.m. Prices start at $240 for 10 kids. What could be easier?
Cost: $8-$10 Hours: vary by location and week
11605 N.E. 116th St. Kirkland, WA 98034 425-820-2297 Online:pumpitupparty.com
18027 Highway 99, Suite J Lynnwood, WA 98037 425-774-2297 Online:pumpitupparty.com
Good to Know:
1. Currently, everyone over the age of five is being asked to wear a mask. Don’t leave home without it.
2. Socks are required at all locations. Left them at home? You can buy a pair at the park.
3. Many of these trampoline parks require signed waivers for kids to play, and most have an online option so you can sign before you’re even through the door. It’s a great way to save time when your kids are anxious to play.
4. Most venues offer membership packages that could save your family a heap of cash if you think multiple visits are in your future.
5. Every location on this list offers birthday party packages. So if an indoor birthday bash is on your kiddo’s wish list, any of these spots will be happy to help.
Do your favorite local candy store a solid and stock up on delectable delights from their aisles this Halloween. And if you’ve already bought your give-away stash, we suggest sneaking over to treat yourself from one of these Atlanta sugar shacks. Keep reading for our favorite Atlanta candy stores, below.
Collier Candy Co.
iStock
Inside Ponce City Market, this sweet shop with a vintage feel—right down to the squeaky floorboards—has an impressive collection of old-fashioned confections (remember Boston Baked Beans?) alongside some more interesting options.
Even Sweeter: Feeling adventurous? Try the Seattle Chocolate Company's milk chocolate truffle bar.
Ponce City Market 675 Ponce De Leon Ave. NE Online:colliercandy.com
Chef Brulee’s chocolate store offers 38 of the most beautiful, delicious artisan chocolates you will ever taste. You have to try them all, but if you can only pick one, don't miss out on the leopard-dusted creamsicle chocolate.
Even Sweeter: They make custom cakes, so if you're in the market, make a trip to the store to see what they can do.
1140 Alpharetta Street #500 Roswell 404-953-0369 Online:chefbrulee.com
This whimsical candy store makes homemade gummy bears—everything from pineapple to grapefruit and even champagne for the grown-ups. Decadent truffles, old-fashioned soda and other candies can be purchased to satisfy your sweet tooth. Kids will love peering into the glass display to pick out their favorite pieces. Lolli & Pops carries sweet treats from around the world and some made locally.
Even sweeter: Pick up a gift tin for your friends with a sweet tooth. It makes the perfect hostess gift.
4400 Ashford Dunwoody Rd. NE Perimeter Mall 770-551-7120 Online:lolliandpops.com
Sugar Factory Atlanta
iStock
Sugar Factory’s 800-square-foot Midtown Atlanta retail confectionary features a signature floor-to-ceiling candy wall with more than 500 types of sweet treats, including a selection of novelty and bulk candy like the brand’s world-famous Couture Pops. Completing the confectionary, the café will offer coffees, hot chocolate, frozen hot chocolate, homemade specialty rainbow doughnuts and pastries, in addition to homemade gelato and ice cream.
Even sweeter: Check out the gummy bear chandelier before you go.
1080 Peachtree Street NE Midtown 470-428-4395 Online:sugarfactory.com
Anyone who’s ever loved an animal knows just how special the bond between person and pet can be. The long walks in the park, the endless games of fetch and the sweet, curled-up cuddles after a long day make up some of life’s best memories for both people and their pets.
If you have an animal lover in your family, you’ll be thrilled to hear about the work that Annenberg PetSpace is doing across Southern California. Annenberg PetSpace is focused on the benefits that animals and people receive from loving and caring for each other and is a unique community space that includes an education center, a leadership institute, and, best of all for people who are looking to add a new (four-legged) family member, an adoption center.
Annenberg PetSpace is open to the public and committed to fostering a love of animals in the next generation. On a visit, you’ll have the opportunity to take part in a Pet Encounter with an adoptable animal, explore the Critter Corner and enjoy a behind-the-scenes view of how pets are received and prepared for adoption. Interested in adding to your family? Annenberg PetSpace lets you schedule an appointment for a meet-and-greet with a potential pet and gives the option to take them home the same day!
If you’re interested in adding someone special to your family, check out these friendly pets who are currently living at Annenberg PetSpace as they wait for their forever home:
Heidi
Heidi is two years old and 62 lbs of bouncy, full-of-life fun. With her perky ears and soft tan and black fur, she’s a picture-perfect pup who’s looking for a family to call her own. Heidi can be shy when she meets new people for the first time but loves to play and cuddle once she’s gotten to know you!
Zorro
Zorro is the perfect mid-sized pup for an experienced pet parent who’s ready to build a loving, trusting relationship with a dog who has lots of love to give! Zorro had a leg injury, received surgery and is working hard to regain his strength in physical therapy. At just two years old, this playful guy is ready for a lifetime full of love!
Clifford
Clifford might not be quite as big or quite as red as the Big Red Dog, but he’s got a heart just as sweet and can’t wait to be a part of a family! Clifford can be a little nervous meeting new people (who isn’t?), but it doesn’t take much to get his tail wagging.
Cheesy Mac
Cheesy Mac is a laid-back kitty who likes things quiet and relaxed, but who gets playful quickly when someone brings out his favorite toys. Cheesy Mac is looking for a home where he can snuggle up and relax in calm and tranquility with a helpful human there to make sure he gets all the snuggles he needs!
Sadie
Sadie is a four-year-old pup who is ready for a loving, trusting family. She's timid and takes a little while to trust people, but once you get to know this 76-pound doggo she's sure to be a furever friend.
If your family is looking for a new pet and wants to explore options other than dogs or cats, a visit to the Annenberg PetSpace Critter Corner is a must-do! The Critter Corner, home to a variety of small animals, is designed to help potential families learn about all the pet options available to them and determine what sort of animal might be the best fit for their family!
With a playful box turtle, a California kingsnake, a cockatiel, a domestic rabbit, a guinea pig, a hamster and a leopard gecko, the Annenberg PetSpace Critter Corner has something for everyone. As you move through the Critter Corner you’ll have a chance to learn about what sort of care each animal needs, what makes them feel happy and fulfilled and what you’ll need to do if you want to bring one into their home.
This summer, whether your family is on the lookout for a new pet or not, an afternoon spent at the Annenberg PetSpace is an afternoon well spent!
I'm a Style Expert and mom of 2. With over a decade in the fashion industry, I launched my lifestyle site Jasmine-Snow.com and my own digital style show, The Nap Series.
I believe fashion is an experience. Whether getting dressed in your closet or putting together a beautiful new space in your home, it’s about creating a look that makes you happy and is totally authentic to you and what you love! What’s more fun than that?! My style cred spills into every messy side of life in a ridiculously chic and relatable way. Despite sometimes being covered in purées and having a chaotic-ish new normal, I really believe style works on everyone!
Although parties and nightlife are still on hold this year, that does not mean the glitz and sparkle of the holiday season has to be too! I’m loving casual relaxed sparkle this year, and I promise it’s going to be just as chic as ever other year! When it comes to my babies, I love dressing and shopping for them with what feels most “of the moment” but also is super playful and fun for them to enjoy style too! When it comes to putting it all together, I take a 5 step approach that I like to call The Style Method. I start with a bit of inspiration, pick out a main piece to dress around and then build from there! The goal is to always have fun with it and never take yourself OR your shopping list too seriously! Check out a few of my favorite things that keep my kids entertained and practically style themselves!
1
The Black Bib
An accessory for babes with places to go and style to be seen!
$43
Just because you're a baby doesn't mean you can't make messes look chic! I never worry about covering up a cute outfit with a lame bib... this just adds to the whole look! This bib is like a baby version of a cool leather jacket, and is convenient to easily wipe clean after every meal. My favorite gift for new stylish mamas!
My entire messy life organized inside a cute cozy pouch!
$68
I loooove a pouch situation in almost every bag, but Stoney Clover takes the cake on making pouches super cool that you never want to hide them in a bag! I keep my life organized by using fun pouches and the patches and personalization make labeling my entire #momlife into something really fun and stylish. The new cozy collection is a favorite, but the choices are endless!
I am beyond obsessed with this company. It has all the cool black and white minimalist vibes mixed with my love of personalization! Oh... and of course it's good for the kiddos too! There are tons of designs to create your own look that works within your decor. This is the perfect way to actually make all of those toys and other random stuff laying around look cool. It's also a great way to make a nursery pop if you place on a neutral color rug.
I love that this company designs glamorous dress up pieces like these capes and makes them so cool and cute that they actually appropriate for the grocery store runs when your little one insists on dressing in full costume. Each piece feels overly special!
I'm a big believer that everyone should have a classic striped tee or long sleeve in their closet. Perfect for layering and mixing with sparkles and patterns! Your mini's closet is no exception and how fitting that Kule is making the perfect style for all cool kids out there!
Wiggle and Whisk Studio is the perfect way to keep your little one entertained in the cozy winter days ahead. With a monthly membership, little bakers from 2-102 are invited to step into the baking studio and following along with a library full of baking tutorials. Founded by a dance teacher each lesson is filled with lots of fun, secret ingredients and epic dance parties while bakers whisk up their own confections!
I cannot get enough of these fashion forward Uggs for Toddlers! Deciding between graphic black and white or neon was just way too difficult! These have all the classic details you love about cozy Uggs but with a new fashionable twist!
A pair of MaryJane shoes are an absolute must in my book. They're classic, comfortable for little ones and always look polished. My favorite for babies all the way up to toddlers is Elephantito. I treat metallic like a neutral and gold is the perfect pick for a little extra glitzy to an outfit.
Movie nights are pretty big in our house (especially these days)! We love getting cozy in our sweats or PJ's and I'm loving this new popcorn sweatshirt to pair with soft joggers to step up our movie party game. Lola and the Boys is always good for a touch of fun and sparkle to any outfit!
Cardigans are my go to for keeping my kids warm. I through them on over dance outfits, dressed and even pajamas sometimes! This leopard one from Crewcuts is great to add a pop of graphic animal print to any outfit.
What happens when you are considering divorce (whether in your head or out loud) and February rolls around? If it is still all internal thoughts, you may still go to the card store and spend an extra half hour finding a card that does not overpromise love forever or make claims of soulmates. You may not want to be obvious in your questioning of the marriage, but also not insincere about making promises in a signed Hallmark document that you are not looking to keep.
If you are feeling bad and do not want your change of heart to be obvious, do be careful what you write in that card. I have had clients who save Valentine’s Day cards and use them as evidence against their ex during divorce! It can be that much more hurtful if you write about undying love on February 14th and then a week later you are serving divorce papers. And if you the word “divorce” has been bandied around the dinner table, then it feels even worse to send a “I will die by your side” card and you may just opt for a Shoebox funny card that makes fun of his lack of ability to fix the dishwasher. What about if your spouse takes it upon themself to use the day for a grand romantic gesture as a way to bring you back into the marriage? Who knows—it could work! If the reasoning you may be planning your exit is due to a lack of communication and effort on your spouse’s part, Valentine’s Day could give them the excuse to address what is lacking in the marriage.
If your spouse does not take the opportunity that Feb 14th gives (Hallmark or not—it is a great day to show love), then it may be your final straw. And of course, if you learn that their Valentine’s Day love is misdirected…well…that could be your answer as well. When in the first stage of divorce—the deciding stage—Valentine’s Day can be the day that makes you or breaks you.
Valentine’s Day during Divorce
Now let’s assume that you already know what the inside of your divorce attorney’s office looks like when Valentine’s Day rolls around. Under most circumstances, you nor your soon-to-be-ex acknowledge the holiday to each other.
If you are in the sad stage of the divorce process, you may have a sentimental exchange with your ex, reminding them of happier Valentine’s Days of the past, which depending on where your spouse is in the emotional rollercoaster of divorce will be responded to with a sad emoji face or ignored altogether.
If you are in the angry stage of the divorce process, there may be bitter and sarcastic text exchanges with your friends about sending black roses or chocolates filled with toothpaste (cures his gross halitosis). There are thoughts of sending edible thongs and leopard skin handcuffs (with or without the keys) to his conservative new girlfriend or her new boyfriend claiming that is what she is into. Obviously, these should be just fun fantasies and not acted upon (I am not looking to give anyone any good ideas).
It is perfectly normal to acknowledge that while Valentine’s Day was meaningless to you in the past, during a divorce, it can be an emotional day. Just be sure to keep yourself in check as your divorce is not over and you do not want your impetuous antics on Valentine’s day to affect the resolution of your case.
Valentine’s Day after Divorce
So, divorce papers are signed off by the judge and you now can file taxes separately. Whether this is a good thing or a bad thing, Valentine’s Day may still not be just like any other day. You may have accepted the divorce, but you still may feel the old feelings of anger and sadness creep up on February 14th. The hope is that as you have more and more years of distance between you and the divorce, those feelings will lessen and the day goes back to just being a Tuesday.
However, the real hope is that you have possibly found someone else who will once again be making the dinner reservations a month in advance looking to impress. Or that you will be at Hallmark reading cards and having a hard time deciding which one because they are all so perfect for your new love. I have seen it happen.
Jacqueline Newman is a divorce lawyer and matrimonial law expert. As managing partner of a top-tier 5th Avenue Manhattan law firm focused exclusively on divorce, her practice runs the gamut from prenups for high net worth people contemplating marriage to high conflict matrimonial litigation in dissolutions.
Just because you don’t want to go all out or spend a ton of money on a costume this year, doesn’t mean you can’t dress up! Get in the spirit this Halloween and find a costume that’s easy to pull off and without the steep price tag. Check out our roundup of Prime-worthy costumes, all from Amazon and all for under $50!
Pink Lady
Super cute costume, that's also super easy? That's why we love this two-piece Pink Lady ($25-$32) get up! The bright satin jacket and black neck tie is easily paired with basic black pants or skirt, and has us singing "Summer Loving" The only thing left you have to decide is if you're going to channel your inner Rizzo, Frenchy or Sandy.
80's Mom
It's time to relive your glory days, mamas and head back to the 80's ($32)! This layered dress is actually one piece, and comes with the ruffled skirt, crop top and belts. Top off with the included leopard print headband and don't forget to crimp, crimp, crimp! Add your own leggings in a bright color to pump it up.
Waldo
Easy is the word of the day! This Waldo ($10-20) costume comes with a hat, shirt and glasses so all you need is a pair of jeans to completely pull off the iconic Where's Waldo? look. You won't be blending in on Halloween with this costume! This one makes a great group or family costume, too!
Witch
You don't have to be a scary witch ($28) to have a great Halloween costume! This black and purple dress provides just the right amount of spooky, while the silver and purple accents give it more of that "good witch" vibe. The most important thing is that it looks so comfy!
Flapper
Head back to the roaring 20's and be a flapper ($18-25) this Halloween! This gorgeous peacock patterned mini dress and black fringe give it an authentic feel, and at the price point, you can easily snag an accessory set of gloves and headband for super cheap to round out your look! (And no, you don't have to wear those shoes to make it work.)
Cat in the Hat
Dr. Seuss would approve this Cat in the Hat ($16) accessory kit that comes with a hat, bow tie and gloves. Simply combine with a black shirt and pants and you've got the easiest costume––one on that your kiddos will love!
Hippie
Just be cool mama! This hippie ($12-20) costume could not be much easier! Pair these inexpensive groovy pants with a pair funky sunglasses ($4) and let your flower child flow. We know you've got something in your closet to add to this ensemble.Tie-dye, be free!
Wonder Woman
Want to embrace your inner Wonder Woman ($12-35) without showing off all that leg? Then this headband and shirt with cape combo is for you! The soft cotton printed T-shirt gives you that Amazon woman feel, without the excess flesh and it's easy to pair with jeans. Instant costume!
Every parent knows the struggle of putting their baby to sleep. You use this trick and that trick, and after what seems like a decade, your little one is finally asleep in their bed. Now it’s time for the second hardest part of the night– your escape from the nursery. If you have a light sleeper, then you know that even the slightest noise can cause a catastrophe.
That’s why we laughed so hard when dad Tyrone Morris posted the below video of his wife reverse leopard crawling out of their sleeping son’s nursery. This is all of us, is it not?! Check out the video below:
A trip to Mission Bay is a pretty universal crowd-pleasing experience. With the smooth sandy beaches, calm waters and multiple playgrounds, it’s a pretty sweet outing. But did you know you can also check out some pretty awesome animal creatures hiding on the resorts? You and your little ones can get up close and personal with birds and a few seals. You’ve just taken the routine trip to the bay — and your cool parent factor — up more than a few notches. Read on for the details on where to take your little animals to see the amazing creatures of Mission Bay!
Gracie the Seal and her Sidekick Billy There is something special about these two harbor seals that permanently reside at the Bahia Hotel. Not only are they the best of friends, but they are both blind rescue seals. When they were found in completely separate incidents, they were injured and nursed back to health. When they were determined to be unfit to be released back into the wild, the Bahia Hotel stepped up and made a home for them at the resort, much to the delight of the seals and their guests. The best part is you don’t have to be a guest of the hotel to visit Gracie and Billy. Take your little pups right to the hotel and go watch the seals play and sunbathe in their spacious living quarters. Your kiddos will not be the only ones enamored with the two of them, it’s nearly impossible to not fall in love a little with these two best buds.
Insider’s Tip: Try to plan your trip around their 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. feeding times.
Bahia Hotel
998 W Mission Bay Dr.
San Diego, Ca
858-488-0551
Online: bahiahotel.com
Birds Galore at The Catamaran Resort If you really want to impress your kids, head to the gorgeous Catamaran Resort located right on Mission Bay and spend some time with talking birds! The cockatoos, parrots and macaws that call the resort home put on quite the show and are very friendly. Your little birdies will get a kick out of interacting with them and will love the adorable mandarin ducks that live at the resort too. There are also two large koi ponds on site filled with the huge and colorful fish that will swim right up right up to your kiddos when they stand at the edge of the water. Feeling adventurous? There are tons of water-sport rentals to check out at the hotel. If your kids are old enough, grab a kayak or paddle boat and see some sea life in their natural habitat!
Insider’s Tip: Plan to get there between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., when the birds are on display.
Catamaran Resort
3999 Mission Blvd.
San Diego, Ca
858-488-1081
Online: cataramanresort.com
Paradise Point Resort With a name like Paradise Point, it’s only natural to expect paradise. But did you know that besides being a beautiful hotel, this Mission Bay hotspot pretty much houses its own Eco-system? There are more than 44 acres of beaches, lagoons and gardens where you and your little explores can catch glimpses of turtles, stingrays, lizards, egrets, ducks and even leopard sharks! There is so much to see here that you may want to grab lunch at one of the kid friendly restaurants on site. Then you can head over to the coolest attraction there; the 70-foot observation tower. It was recently refurbished so you can safely check out one of the best panoramic views in San Diego.
Insider’s Tip: For a real treat, book a water taxi that will take you from the beach outside the Catamaran Hotel to the landing dock at Paradise Point Resort. It’s a great way to check out the Bay up close and personal.
1404 Vacation Rd.
San Diego, Ca
858-274-4630
Online: paradisepoint.com
Have you checked out the amazing creatures of Mission Bay? Did we miss one that should be included?
There’s a good chance that you’ve pinned at least one cute animal-themed food art idea by now. Because….well, cute! Of course, whether you execute is a whole other story. No worries, most of these are totally doable—but we did throw in a few jaw-dropping, looks-too-good-to -eatmasterpieces, too. So move over, teddy bear toast; we’ve rounded up the best wildlife masterpieces for your ogling (and maybe even replicating) pleasure.
Leopard Lunch
While scrolling through Sarah Gonzalez’s (aka @lunarbell_lunch) Instagram feed, three words will come to mind: “we’re not worthy”. She takes food art to a new level with such detail, like the realistic spots on this leopard. Note the heavy use of veggies as flora, too! Grab some popcorn and park here a while; you may even be inspired to try your hand at an idea or two.
Bear-Shaped Pizza
The all-time kiddie favorite just got an adorable upgrade. This version on Bento Monsters comes with a step-by-step tutorial and is something even the littlest of hands can help out with thanks to a cookie cutter, tomato sauce and slices of cheese.
Tiger with Camera
Are you admiring the tiger, or is it the other way around? The shoe’s on the other, er, paw with this clever lunch. A sandwich cutter and a few geometric cuts are all you need for this bento meal by Mamabelly.
Stingray Mushroom
Plant-based diets are making a big splash these days. Elevate the humble mushroom to a mighty stingray on a bed of rice, an instant marine biology lesson for your pint-sized foodie. Get the details from Becoming a Bentoholic.
Squirrel Bento
We have yet to meet a toddler who doesn’t squeal at the sight of a squirrel. This one from Wendolonia is both cute and doable thanks to a shaped cookie cutter. It’s the supporting cast that steal the show, though, with cheese leaf shapes waiting for a nibble. Pure genius.
Babybel Cheese Penguin
So cunningly simple, you’ll kick yourself for not thinking of it first. Eats Amazing turns a snacktime staple into a polar delight with a mini circle cutter, candy eyes and a bit of carrot. Make sure to scroll down, since you’ll find ways to transform a clementine, sandwiches, and raisins into these irresistible creatures.
Cow Cake Udderly adorable. As if anyone needed more coaxing to eat cake, the mom and baking genius behind Cococakeland uses her piping prowess to make this cow. Poke around on her blog for other animal and non-animal creations, many with tutorials.
Fishy Breakfast
Fish first thing in the morning is a must when it looks like this: croissant dough baked in the shape of an aquarium, hand-cut fish-shaped bread, apple-slice fish skeleton on a skewer (so creative!) and just-the-right details like aquarium greenery and a fishing rod. Follow Instagram user mikodesign for more whimsy.
Sheep Bento
Little Bo Peep would definitely have kept better track of her sheep if it came this way. Provolone cheese, nori, candy eyes and grapes in the hands of the Bento School Lunches blogger become a super fun meal. Bonus points for the spelling lesson in the veggies.
Relaxing Panda
Keep calm; charaben on. “Charaben” is the Japanese term for most of what’s on this list—crafting food into characters, animals or cute scenes. Instagram user @5ambento is a pro, but this particular rice panda is a fun reminder to keep things simple and lighthearted.
Bunny Egg
Clean and simple is Food for Harper’s mantra, perfect for minimalist lovers. Her bunny-shaped egg is made with a mold, and looks like a breakfast or snack any little one would gobble up in no time.
Bumblebee Burgers
When it comes to the food art world, Instagram user @leessamantha is queen. If you haven’t heard of her by now, prepare for jaw-dropping photos of full meals-turned-masterpieces. You’d be hard-pressed to find a kid who’d turn down these burger bumblebees, using melted cheese, nori, cucumbers, and a couple dabs of ketchup.
Turtle Sliders
Is it slow and steady, or cute and healthy that wins the race? This impressive bento meal covers both with its simple-yet-clever use of pickles to upgrade a burger (oh hi there, summer BBQ party inspiration!) Don’t miss the graham cracker crumb “sand” and yogurt-covered raisin “turtle eggs” that pinch hit for a lesson in the birds and the…turtles. Get the full how-to on Lunchbox Dad.