Your gender-neutral nursery will be anything but boring
Gender-neutral baby gear, clothes, and accessories have become very accessible, and nurseries are no exception. Whether you’re going the neutral route because you’re skipping the ‘gender reveal‘, you want to be able to plan for hand-me-downs for future babies, or just because you like the hues, there are lots of options for a gender-neutral nursery. It can be a bit of a challenge to keep things neutral and cohesive. These decorating options are easy to mix and match, plus, it’s all absolutely adorable. Oh, and boho-loving moms? There are a ton of earthy colors in this collection that you’ll love. You can’t go wrong with these.
Pick bold patterns or muted prints, or pair a little of both for a unique and darling room your babe will be able to grow into. Another major plus to neutral spaces, right? Of course, you’ll want to add baby and family photos, plus their own touches as their personalities start to show. Here are a few of our favorite choices.
Passport 20" Kids Pendant Ceiling Light by Leanne Ford
This fun ceiling light is an adorable addition to any kiddo's room. Who wouldn't want a hot air balloon floating through their space? We know we do.
100% cotton sateen, this illustrated crib sheet from Rookie Humans is like creating a storybook in their nursery. If the moon isn't quite your style, check out their full collection of stunning crib sheets, too.
Aside from being so cool-looking, clear storage helps you find what you're looking for fast and fits into any decor (including your gender-neutral nursery) because, again, clear.
Goodnight Moon 3-Piece Celestial Nursery Crib Bedding Set
Lambs & Ivy
This sweet crib bedding set includes a quilt, fitted crib sheet, and a crib skirt. "You are my sun my moon and all of my stars" is embroidered on the soft moon. That covers every parents' sentiment, doesn't it?
We have a feeling you're going to want blackout curtains in the nursery. Afterall, between being able to darken the whole room on your terms, and keeping the temperature regulated, there's a good chance your little one will sleep better with them.
A super cute decorative nursery sign that's laser cut and engraved from birch and white eucalyptus wood. They're available in 3 different sizes, with 12 different frame finishes to choose from.'
Handmade details, cotton fleece, and yarn combine to create an artisanal feel that's totally gender-neutral, too. Stick with the giraffe, or add the antelope and lion, too.
We're actually very in love with all the clocks from Birch Lane, but Smokey the Owl is an easy fave. Made from baltic birch plywood that's ethically sourced & printed with non-toxic, water-based inks, too.
WallpaperMural.com makes absolutely beautiful wallpaper, and the Ava Neutral design warms up any nursery or kids room. It's comfy, cozy, and has just the right about of whimsy, too. That's right, we said whimsy.
The soft colors with a little extra punch make these prints a great way to add neutral hues to your little one's gender-neutral nursery. (Note: these are a digital download.)
This set of 3 receiving blankets in the 'Forest Theme' palette is not only pretty, it's hard to go wrong with soft and breathable organic cotton and bamboo fabrication. Plus, you can never have enough receiving blankets, right?
This sound machine has 30 looping white noise sounds and 12 nightlight colors, and although it comes in black and white, this wood finish makes it part of the decor.
Babies aren't always terribly interested in stuffed animals until they're a bit older, but we know you already have quite the collection. Store them in style with this macrame storage hammock, featuring a string of LED lights for a soft glow in a gender-neutral nursery.
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It is officially summer here—and as a mom, I have had it! This summer, I am taking a stand and declaring that this summer is for every mom bod out there, and it will be the summer that we wear the DAMN bathing suit!
Rock that Mom Bod
I understand how self-conscious it is to be a mom—believe me! I see young twenty-somethings at the beach that look like they stepped out of a photoshoot as opposed to our day at the beach that involved a million “necessities,” a toddler who threw a tantrum and not one moment to enjoy my beer since I’m not only mom, I’m doubling as a lifeguard, too.
I, too, was once a young twenty-something who arrived at the beach without a care in the world. In fact, if my college self saw me in a two-piece today, she would probably tell me to rock the one-piece instead. But my college self was so naive and thought that her body could take anything (honestly, it had survived way too many nights of tequila shots and Natty Light).
What my college self didn’t know were all the amazing things that my body would be capable of doing. I am still in awe that my body could create and carry a beautiful smart little girl in just 42 weeks. And then, after 22 hours of labor and an emergency c-section, it would bounce right back to take care of this small, delicate newborn. And still, throughout her first year of life, my mom bod could provide the sole form of nutrition to that little girl—and even a little extra to donate to babies in need. My body could survive off very little sleep, be drained to the point where I thought I had nothing left—and then give more.
Our bodies are truly amazing in what we can do, not only as moms but as women.
Wear the Damn Bathing Suit
I know that as a mom, I am guilty of trying to hide the stretch marks, baby weight and c-section scars and shelf when in all honesty, I should rock them as the battle scars they are. These marks and parts of our body that we deem are unsightly are actually signs of our body’s strength—proof that our body can do anything.
Moms deserve to wear the damn bathing suit—and feel as beautiful as our children see us. Rock the c-section scars, stretch marks and baby weight as you chase after your wonderful children in the ocean.
Wear the damn bathing suit so you don’t miss out on time with your family. Rather than sit on the side of the pool fully-clothed worrying about the size of your thighs, put on your bathing suit and play Marco Polo in the pool with your kids. Teach your littles how to do cannonballs. Make memories with your family rather than sit on the sidelines and watch memories being made around you.
The truth is, your kids won’t remember your stretch marks, baby weight or the c-section shelf. Your kids will remember the afternoon you spent building the largest sandcastle they have ever seen or those morning swims at the neighborhood pool.
Maybe if all of us moms got out this summer and wore our damn bathing suits, it would help encourage other moms to get out there and do the same.
We only get so many summers with our kids, let’s not waste them worrying about how we look—instead, let’s just wear the damn bathing suit.
Ashley Gillis is a mom to a beautiful, spunky little girl and is the Co-Founder of Hampton Roads Moms, a lifestyle blog and resource for Mom's in South East Virginia. She is a lover of the beach, margaritas, coffee, running and speaking her mind. You can get more of Ashley at www.hrvamoms.com.
We’ve rounded up our favorite out-of-town destinations, from a beach trip to a National Park hike
Not everyone likes to mix colder temps and outdoor fun, but you can change that this winter season. We’ve rounded up some fun winter road trip stops and there’s something for everyone in your crew to love. From exploring a small town like Wilmington, DE to hitting the slopes at Shawnee Mountain Ski Area, this winter road trip list checks off all the boxes. Skip the winter blues, and hop in the car to start enjoying the coolest season of the year.
Charleston, South Carolina boasts some pretty spectacular beach spots with great off-season weather, but the drive out of town to Botany Bay is one worth taking. Photographers include this "tree boneyard" on their bucket lists, and little ones will flip over the thousands of shells washed up along the shoreline. To get to the beach, you'll walk through lush wetlands until you step out on one of South Carolina's most hidden gems. Just remember, you can't take the shells home with you.
Botany Bay Plantation Heritage Preserve/Wildlife Management Area Botany Bay Rd. Edisto Island, SC Online:dnr.sc.gov
What is a DMV winter without a little (or a lot) of fun in the snow? At Shawnee Mountain, kids are the stars. With morning, afternoon, and full-day children’s programs, your kiddos will make life-long memories at this Pennsylvania-based ski area. They even have a mommy-and-me program for your tiniest snow-lover. Don't worry! The helmet is included at no extra charge.
Shawnee Mountain Ski Area 401 Hollow Rd. East Stroudsburg, PA Online:shawneemt.com
Crabtree Falls, the highest vertical-drop cascading waterfall east of the Mississippi River, is a spectacular sight and you won't have anything to block your view in the winter months. The first overlook is just a few hundred feet from the parking lot along a paved path making it an excellent stopover for travelers of all ages and abilities. The more adventuresome hiker may continue along the 3-mile trail to four other overlooks.
11581 Crabtree Falls Hwy. Montebello, VA Online:virginia.org
Don't miss the most visited National Park in the United States. Great Smoky Mountains National Park sits between North Carolina and Tennessee. Your family will love the lush forests and wildflowers that bloom year-round. Streams, rivers, and waterfalls dot portions of the Appalachian Trail. There's something for everyone at this gorgeous national park.
You probably don't think of a winter wonderland when you think about Wilmington, DE, but you might be surprised by all the winter fun to be had there. As if tax-free shopping isn't enough of an incentive, the Enchanted Woods at Winterthur Museum, Garden and Library, and the riverfront Delaware Children's Museum certainly are. If you are feeling adventurous, you and your gang can stop at nine small Delaware towns along the statewide Discovery Trail. Each stop offers a fun photo op with an original wall mural.
Bundle up and head over to the Balanced Rock Viewing Area at Trough Creek State Park in Pennsylvania if you want to see a few waterfalls, some cool natural stone steps, and a huge balanced rock on the side of a mountain. Your little adventures will love to make the suspension bridge sway back and forth over the creek. Grab a picnic table in front of Copperas Rock or picnic in your warm car parked across the street, but don't miss one of the most breathtaking rock formations around.
16362 Little Valley Rd. James Creek, PA Online:dcnr.pa.gov
Try these theme restaurants in Atlanta for an exciting dinner experience you may not expect
Dining with kids is an adventure. And one of the best ways to keep everyone happy and entertained when dining out is to hit up a out-of-the-box restaurant that practically guarantees a tabletop of happy plates (hint: here are some of our other favorite family restaurants tips). From brunch overlooking the world’s busiest airport to dinner inside a real train car—or perhaps pizza served by robots—we’ve got eight theme restaurants in Atlanta that are worth checking out. Find your favorite spots to make a memorable—in a good way—mealtime memory.
This Victory Brands restaurant in Decatur is best to visit when the sun is down to catch "all the tiki glow." There are plenty of neon colors, tropical flowers, and bobbling hula dolls during the day, though, so you won't be disappointed.
Insider Tip: If they've been good and let you drink your cocktail out of a giant bird of paradise vase in peace, reward them with an order of Tempur-Oreos for dessert. They're deep-fried Oreos with Nutella or vegan chocolate sauce.
Glaze your Instagram with a visit to Atlanta’s weirdest museum that combines selfies (or perhaps family photos) with donuts. ‘Hole In The Wall’ is not a full-service restaurant, but you can nosh on delicious donuts and sip tasty drinks while snapping selfies at donut-themed selfie stations.
All lords and ladies, regardless of size or stature, are guaranteed to have a blast cheering on their favorite knights in this dinner theater arena experience in Lawrenceville. From jousting to gallantry, the horses, knights, queens, kings, and of course—all the kids—guaranteed a night to remember.
Nope, not Trader Joe's. This particular Trader takes diners to poy paradise, with Polynesian-inspired decor, cuisine, and on occasion, entertainment. It's the home of the "original" Mai-Tai, so definitely add that to your order. This particular location in the downtown Hilton has been in operation since 1976, and this tiki bar is definitely high on wow factor for kids and parents, alike.
Located on railroad tracks in an old train car, and featuring three different rooms for Chinese, Sushi, and Hibachi, this Vinings staple is loco for kids interested in locomotives. Featuring all the traditional dishes you'd expect, try the hibachi for a little dinnertime entertainment (that doesn't involve an iPad).
This Mexican restaurant with a menu inspired by authentic street food and decor inspired by the celebrations of Dia de los Muertos. Whatever you do, don't miss the banana empanadas—fried pastries with sweet bananas, sprinkled with cinnamon sugar, and topped with whipped cream.
Located at the end of the south runways of the Peachtree-Dekalb Airport, this long-time staple of Atlanta dining will wow your wee air aficionados in a major way. With both indoor and outdoor patio dining, no seat is a bad seat for getting an eyeful of passenger planes taking off and landing at the airport. Decorated in a WWII-era aviation theme, the restaurant even has vintage planes on the property.
While they may be a little young to catch a show, your tiny dancers will love checking out the stage and vibe at lunch or early dinner at this downtown landmark. Filled with memorabilia, particularly of bands with roots in the South, the Hard Rock will satisfy their bellies with burgers and their heads with visions of becoming a rock star.
“Every year when I sit down to design the new Día De Muertos dolls there’s a flood of emotions; I’m honored and excited to represent this holiday that is so close to my own heart. I understand how important this holiday is and am grateful for the opportunity to continue celebrating these traditions with Barbie respectfully. I love celebrating the Día de Muertos traditions with my loved ones each year and honoring my family and friends that are no longer with us. It’s such a powerful and meaningful way to remember them through stories and happy memories,” says Barbie Signature designer Javier Meabe.
Mattel
This year, three dolls make up the collection. Barbie wears a royal purple dress with calavera sugar skulls and flower details. She dons a cempasúchil flower and rose headband with streaming ribbons, with a bone belt to finish the look.
“Ken has a little more complex design than Barbie but I’m always up for the challenge! I wanted to make sure he felt different, and special from the first Día De Meurtos Ken,” Meabe explains.
Mattel
Ken sports a bright blue shirt under a vest with skulls, flowers, roses, and bones to make up his charro look. To finish his ensemeble, he wears a calavera sugar skull bolero tie and sombrero with a golden band.
This year, a special Barbie also joins the collection and is designed by Benito Santos. “I’m excited that we get to expand the world of Día De Muertos in the Barbie portfolio. We also get to see it come to life though the vision of Benito Santos, who also loves and celebrates the holiday,” says Meabe.
Mattel
A member exclusive, this doll wears a red-and-white embroidered gown with a layered mermaid hem, a cropped embroidered jacket, and a holiday-inspired headpiece. You can shop the new 2022 collection at mattel.com, where dolls range in price from $80-$100.
Right now, the Benito Santos x Dia de los Muertos doll is currently sold out, but it could come back in stock.
This quiet town on California’s Central Coast is the perfect family vacation escape
California’s Highway 1 is full of picturesque beach towns and Morro Bay is one of our favorites. It has a small-town vibe with welcoming locals, loads of wildlife, and not-too-crowded beaches for a day in the sun. Whether you are road tripping from the Bay Area or Los Angeles, Morro Bay is the ideal destination for families looking for coastal relaxation without all the cheesy souvenir stores you’ll find in many of the other California beach towns.
Located just north of San Luis Obispo, Morro Bay is most recognizable for the iconic Morro Rock, which was formed 23 million years ago from the plugs of now-extinct volcanoes. We’ve tried out quite a few activities while visiting Morro Bay and you can find our favorites both on land and on the water below.
Wildheart Coastal Adventures
Mandy at Wildheart Coastal Adventures is your key to learning about what makes the Morro Bay Estuary the unique spot that it is. She will craft the perfect kid- and dog-friendly adventure that can include hiking to the top of the Black Hill Trail to see the estuary from above as well as kayaking adventures for all levels of paddlers. During our paddle, she pointed out sea otters, sea lions, harbor seals, and tons of birds and other wildlife. We especially appreciated how conscientious she was regarding keeping our distance from wildlife so as not to disturb them in their natural habitats.
Sub Sea Tours Whale Watching and Harbor Cruises
For a less active way to explore Morro Bay from the water, we recommend reserving a spot on a three-hour whale watching tour or one-hour harbor tour with Sub Sea. The whale watch tour takes you out past the calm harbor waters to see if you can spot gray or humpback whales that come to feed on the abundant sea life offshore. A shorter, less bumpy option (for those who might get seasick) is the harbor tour. A glass-bottomed boat takes you to visit the sea lions that have taken over a wooden platform in the harbor and the sea otters that frolic near shore. You can also rent kayaks and stand-up paddle boards from this location.
Black Hill Trail Hike
For some killer views of Morro Rock and an easy hike for the kids, head to the Black Hill Trail. To find the trailhead to this 0.62-mile round trip hike, turn off Main Street just past the Inn at Morro Bay and on to Park View Road. Keep left on to Upper State Park Road and follow that to the end where you can park. The trail meanders up to the peak where there are boulders to climb and great spots for a family picture.
Morro Bay Maritime Museum
Your little explorers will love visiting this museum that has a tugboat, a Deep Submergence Rescue Vehicle, and a commercial fishing vessel as part of its fleet. The museum is free to visit and open from Thursday-Monday but you can always walk through the outdoor exhibits and learn about things like pulleys from the information displayed. Indoor you can watch a video that shows what powerful waves do to Morro Bay Harbor and why its layout makes it particularly difficult for captains to navigate.
Morro RockBeach
Spend some time with your toes in the sand at Morro Rock Beach. You can walk there from downtown or drive out and park in the free lot. If you are lucky, you will get to see some surfers catching gnarly waves just offshore. This is also a great spot to fly your kite as the wind whips around the rock. Head to the harbor side to see what the sea otters are eating today. If you make your way to the back side of Morro Rock, you’ll be rewarded with climbing rocks and many stone cairns.
Shopping in Morro Bay
You can easily spend a whole day exploring downtown Morro Bay. From the life-sized chess board that resides in the center of town to the many souvenir shops along the harbor, there are lots of spots that the kids will enjoy.
The Garden Gallery is a favorite spot to pick up some succulents or garden art to take home with you.
Pick up a surrey at Farmer’s Kites and Surreys and head out along the bike path to check out Morro Rock up close.
Swing by The Shell Shop to grab some crustacean art to take home with you. Since 1955 this shop has been selling jewelry, corals, and shells of all types. We especially love their windchimes made out of seashells.
Looking to learn a little more about the sea life in Morro Bay? A great spot to stop is the Estuary Nature Center. This free spot will teach kids (and grown-ups) all about protecting our natural resources for generations to come. It is located on the second floor in the Marina Square Building.
If thrift shopping and treasure hunting is on your must-do list, Morro Bay has at least a dozen spots where you can find your new favorite outfit or that perfect gift.
With easy access to super fresh seafood, Morro Bay is a seafood-lovers paradise. We love the easy dining that’s offered at the many fish markets in town like Giovanni’s Fish Market (pictured above). Here you can get fish tacos and clam chowder, along with any type of fried fish you could dream up. The outdoor dining is particularly kid-friendly.
Tognazzini’s Dockside is another favorite as the portions are big and the service is friendly. You’ll have a lovely view of the harbor while you enjoy fresh-caught fish and some of the best desserts in town. Their Fish Market next-door is perfect for when you want something a little more casual.
Grab a table at Dutchman’s Seafood House at sunset and enjoy the colors changing with Morro Rock in the background. This family-owned restaurant also owns its own dock, ensuring the freshest fish for its patrons while supporting the sustainable fishing methods of local fishermen. Try the sand dabs and a cup of clam chowder.
Another option just above the life-sized chess board downtown is Dorn’s Original Breakers Cafe. Open since 1942, Dorn’s offers fresh, local seafood as well as steaks, chicken, pasta, and salads. It’s also a great spot for your weekend brunch.
Just outside of town you’ll find the unassuming Taco Temple where you’ll definitely want to make a stop. Huge portions are the name of the game so feel free to split meals. Go for whatever is listed as the catch of the day and enjoy it taco style with horchata on the side.
The Bayside Cafe has some of the best no-frills dining in the area. The California Chowder in a bread bowl is a crowd favorite. This side-by-side combo of clam chowder and green chile soup is the perfect balance of spice and the sea. Save room for their boysenberry crisp, generously topped with whipped cream, it’s not to be missed! Be sure to check out all the cool ceiling art on your way out.
Sweet Treats
There’s no shortage of spots to stop and grab some sweets in downtown Morro Bay. Embarcadero Fudge and Ice Cream has just that—fudge and ice cream—with samples of whatever you are thinking of purchasing. Carousel Taffy is a must-visit spot with taffy by the pound.
You may never get the kids to leave Kelli’s Candies with their massive selection of jelly beans, ice cream, taffy, and more. With arcade games in the back, you might as well get yourself an iced coffee and a piece of fudge as you’ll likely be there a while.
Kate Loweth
Where to Stay in Morro Bay with Kids
We love the location of 456 Embarcadero Inn & Suites for your Morro Bay visit as you can easily walk to all of the great restaurants in town or hop over to one of the kayak rental spots to book your day on the water. Rooms are large and many have balconies so that you can enjoy your coffee while breathing in the fresh ocean air. The property also has a hot tub for relaxing in the evening hours.
Just outside of downtown near the golf course is the Inn at Morro Bay (pictured above). It’s a great option for families looking to stay a few days as the rooms are large and each has a private deck that looks out over the harbor or the pool area. The pool is kept at a nice, warm temp and there’s a hot tub if you want to relax with the jets on.
What a Weekend in Morro Bay Looks Like with Kids: *Spoiler Alert* It’s Awesome
Morro Bay is an easy three-hour drive along 101 from San Jose. There are tons of spots for detours to break up the journey a bit. Swing by the Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery on your way out of town. It’s 45 minutes north of Morro Bay in Cambria. Kids will love how close they can get to these massive creatures. Volunteer docents are often available to answer questions.
Head up the hill to tour the majestic Hearst Castle on your next Morro Bay Visit. This massive property is accessible to visitors via buses from the visitors center (believe us, you wouldn’t want to attempt the steep, windy roads in your minivan). On your way up, you might spot some of the unique animals that make this property their home before you enter the walls of the property that was built for W. R. Hearst by architect Julia Morgan. Adults and older children will enjoy seeing the swimming pool that is lined in gold, as well as the massive dining room and other opulent spaces.
Morro Bay is the ideal family destination with the perfect balance of things to do and also ways to relax. Check out the Morro Bay Tourism website for more ideas on what to do on your next weekend adventure. You can find out about seasonal events like the Maritime Family Fun Day.
Note: This trip was paid for by Morro Bay Tourism but all opinions expressed here belong to the writer.
One good thing about hot summer days is warm summer nights. And, in DFW, that means perfect weather for outdoor live music! And there’s nothing we like more than a family-friendly spot to listen to some tunes. From Concert by the Lake in Rockwall to Cool Thursdays at the Dallas Arboretum, we’ve gathered our favorite summer concert series that offers some of the best live music in Dallas. See them all below.
A popular summer music series held at the outdoor auditorium at The Harbor in Rockwall, fun cover bands like Def Leggend, Infinite Journey and Memphis Soul. Held on Thursdays from 7:30 p.m.-9:00 p.m., you can bring in your boat, enjoy music from the lake, and eat at one of the restaurants while listening or setting up on the lawn. There’s a fun fountain for the kids, too.
Sounds of Summer Concert Series in Highland Village
Head to The Patio Courtyard for free concerts at Highland Village. On Thursdays from 7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m., you can bring chairs and blankets, grab a bite from a nearby restaurant and let the kids splash in the interactive splash pad.
Every second Saturday through Sept., Denton Drive Live! offers a family-friendly concert (two bands each night) with all types of music including salsa, rock, blues, pop and more. There are activities for the kids and plenty of food and drinks for purchase. Be aware that pets are not allowed at the concert series.
This fun summer music series will feature several local or Texas musicians on the rise. Every other Thursday, head to Winters Park where you'll find food vendors and an activity area for kids.
This is one of the best places to see live music in Dallas! Cool Thursdays at the Dallas Arboretum brings you to one of the most beautiful spots in the metroplex, overlooking White Rock Lake.
Levitt Pavilion Summer Concert Series in Arlington
This impressive venue offers family-friendly free concerts every weekend during the summer. It’s BYOB and okay to bring your own summer picnic. They also have ticketed events that are perfect for a date night.
This popular food hall has concerts running most of the year. They start late, so while it might be a better fit for older kids, they are still family-friendly events!
Head for the Dallas Zoo on Saturday nights to enjoy live music, food, and of course, your kids' favorite animals! The show starts at 7 p.m., but you can arrive earlier.
Every Tuesday night there's a free concert held in Old Town Lewisville, at Wayne Ferguson Plaza. There are two bands, and the show starts at 7 p.m. Dogs are welcome, and you can bring your own food, but there are food vendors like Righteous BBQ, TM Ice Cream and more.
Hiking is always fun but throw in hidden staircases and gorgeous murals, and you’ve got yourself a real adventure! Explore the city on foot and soak in the beauty of the stairs, the views from the top and our Bay Area’s very own local artists. Here’s a guide to a few of our favorite spots!
Staircases
Nicole Findlay
The Hidden Steps on 16th Avenue
You'll find the Hidden Garden Steps at 16th Avenue and Kirkham Street in the Inner Sunset. The steep staircase, adorned with beautiful mosaic tiles, depicts colorful flowers, plants, insects and more!
At the top, turn right and follow 16th Avenue through the Golden Gate Heights neighborhood. Here, you'll reach another set of beautifully tiled stairs where you can climb from the sea (at the bottom) to the stars (at the top).
And when you get to the top of that staircase, why not turn right, and catch a third set of stairs? This not-as-pretty concrete set leads you to the tip-top of Granview Park. The views of the Pacific Ocean, the bay, and the entire city below are jaw-dropping. Pat each other (and yourself!) on the back. That was quite an urban climb!
The Steps to Macondray Lane
Have you seen "Tales of the City?" You know, the 1993 miniseries (with a sequel in 2019) featuring Laura Linney, Olympia Dukakis, Paul Gross and Barbara Garrick? Well, Macondry Lane was the inspiration for Barbary Lane in "Tales of the City." It's a secluded, greenery-lined pedestrian walkway in Russian Hill between Leavenworth and Taylor Streets. At the Taylor side, there's a set of wooden stairs, and from the top, you can see the beautiful bay.
At the top of Solano Avenue in North Berkeley starts the most unexpected urban stroll through parks, streams, volcanic boulders, and traditional Ohlone Indian sites. You'll even find chickens to feed on the route! From Solano Avenue at The Alameda, go straight on Indian Rock Path, a narrow lane cutting between houses with a dead end on Indian Rock Park, a climber's Mecca. Look for stone steps carved on the right side of the rock and walk to the top. The 360-degree view of the bay is breathtaking. Continue up Indian Rock Avenue and turn onto San Diego Road. On your left, you'll discover John Hinkel Park with its lush canyon and stone amphitheater. Go down into the park to Somerset Avenue and turn right onto Arlington Avenue, then left into Yosemite Road. This is where a clever resident set a chicken coop at street level with a bubble gum dispenser filled with chicken feed and treats for good dogs. Get your quarters out! After Great Stoneface Park, find Indian Trail at the south (left) corner of San Fernando Avenue and walk down Berkeley's wild side. Turn left on The Alameda, left (up) Yosemite Steps after Capistrano Avenue and down Contra Costa Avenue back to Indian Rock Path. Turn right to Solano Avenue.
Scale South San Francisco's Sign Hill
We bet you've seen this place hundreds of times as you've zoomed up 101 toward San Francisco: A hill covered with white letters, reading "SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO THE INDUSTRIAL CITY," —it's the Hollywood sign's way-less-glamorous, NorCal cousin.
But did you know that this city park situated on the face of San Bruno Mountain is also a rare grassland habitat with endangered animals, stairs, and kid-friendly hiking trails? Getting to the letters is easy from Grand Avenue, just a short, uphill walk through a quiet suburban neighborhood. The Letters Trail is quick and takes you right up to the big white signs. (If you're looking for something longer, there are three other trail options to choose from: Ridge, Seubert and Iris Hill). Three-year-olds should be able to walk this trail on their own.
Dipsea Stairs
This staircase is not necessarily urban, but it's hidden in Mill Valley—and one of our favorites in the Bay Area. For the more experienced hiking family, this 3.70-mile loop tackles 680 stairs—but wow! How amazing are you going to feel when you reach the top? This trail takes an average of 1 hour and 53 minutes to complete, and feel free to bring your furry four-legged family members (as long as they stay on leash).
Climb Telegraph Hill
Paper streets may sound tame but they’re a guaranteed workout! Go down Sansome Street three blocks to a concrete-and-steel stairway called Filbert Steps where you start your ascension. Wooden cottages, rose bushes, and sculpted gardens line both sides of the stairs. Kids will love the “Teacup poodle OK” mural around a water hydrant on your right. Continue the stairs up to Coit Tower—enjoy the view—and come back down the Greenwich steps. These turn into Greenwich Street, leading you to Levi Plaza’s park, a zen place with fountains to splash in and rocks to relax on.
Balmy Alley: Located between 24th and 25th Streets, this block-long alley is one of the best spots to see murals. The murals began in the mid-1980s to express anger over human rights violations and political corruption in central America. Today, new murals pop up all the time and can include gentrification and government injustice.
Clarion Alley: The Mission of Clarion Alley Mural Project (CAMP) transformed Clarion Alley into a space filled with murals. There's been over 900 since 1992.
Walking around the Mission District is like stepping into an outdoor art gallery. If you'd like to see even more murals and learn about each piece—take a walking tour.
Murals from the Works Progress Administration era cover the entire first floor of the Beach Chalet building. Enjoy the free art show before grabbing a bite to eat. The Beach Chalet restaurant (upstairs) and Park Chalet (downstairs and outside) are both delicious. The beach is just across the street, too! What could be better? Gorgeous murals, a delicious lunch, and a family frolic in the sand!
North Beach, San Francisco
Tucked into alleys on Columbus Street, you may have to search a little to find the murals in this neighborhood. But when you do, it's worth the effort. Our favorite, though, is not hard to spot. Stand on Columbus and Broadway and look above the New Sun Hong Kong Restaurant. We promise you can't miss it!
Chinatown, San Francisco
More and more colorful murals have popped up in Chinatown in the past decade. Take a stroll through this lively neighborhood and see how many you can spot! Our favorite is the giant blue dragon On Trenton Street and Pacific Avenue.
Two murals inside the station are almost identical. Can your family find the differences? What do you think the murals look like? Peacock feathers, hot air balloon, a symbol of diversity? The beauty of art is that it's up to your interpretation.
Downtown Oakland
The walk between the 12th and 19th Street Bart Stations has some really striking artwork. You'll find murals honoring the lives of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, John Lewis, the Oakland skyline and more!
Flax Art & Design, 1501 Martin Luther King Jr Way, Oakland
The kids will surely get excited when they see the huge T-Rex dinosaur painted in rainbow hues.
Jack London Square, 4th and Webster, Oakland
The giant Oakland Dreams mural is definitely Instagram-worthy. It represents youth holding on to their dreams. Beautiful and inspirational!
Think all poetry has to rhyme? These inventive ways to teach kids about poetry are all about the free verse. All you need is imagination, a sense of humor and a few craft supplies. Read on for our four ways to teach your little bohemian the fine art of poetry.
For the Baby Beatnik
Beat Generation writer William Burroughs’ “cut-up” method works strikingly well for the half-pint crowd. Think of it as a collage with words. Get out the safety scissors, grab some magazines and cut out words. You can also write words on paper and cut them out. Once you’ve got them cut up, toss them in the air. The order that they land in is the order you write down or recite. Tip: Stick to words kids will recognize like animals and colors and don’t forget your articles (a, an, the) and conjunctions (and, but, if). Schoolhouse Rock flashbacks, anyone?
For the Nature Lover
If you prefer your poetry in the garden Emily Dickinson-style, try rock art poetry. Using waterproof ink and stamps or paint or paint pens, write words or individual letters on smooth stones. Arrange the words into a simple verse. As an added bonus, you can rearrange it anytime.
For the Aspiring Avant Garde
Book spine poetry is about as simple as they get and a great intro for kids to poetry. Just stack books spine out and recite. For example:
What am I?
My Father’s Dragon
Demolition
The Dark
For the Free-Lovin’ Free Verser Elementary school teachers will tell you the secret to those adorable poems your kids bring home are based on this easy method known as cinquain (pronounced “sin-kane”). It’s a five-line poem, with a 1, 2, 3, 4, 1 sequence. There are variations on the method, but here’s one you can try with yours:
Line 1: one word, noun
Line 2: two words, adjectives to describe the noun in line 1
Line 3: three words, verbs that relate to line 1
Line 4: four words, feelings that relate to line 1 (make this one a complete sentence, e.g., “It makes me laugh.”)
Line 5: one word, noun/synonym for line 1
Example:
Rabbit
Fuzzy and white
Hopping, Sniffing, Hiding
How I Love You
Bunny
—Amber Guetebier; photos by Amber Guetebier except where noted.
Going green has never been more fun than when you’ve got your own little leprechauns on the loose. From parades to “greening of the fountains,” Atlanta is one lucky place to be. Here are our favorite spots around town to kiss the Blarney Stone.
Atlanta St. Patrick's Parade: Saturday, March 12
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The Atlanta St. Patrick’s Parade, which dates back to 1848, is one of the oldest parades of its kind in the U.S. and longest running event in Atlanta’s history. It returns to the streets of Midtown. The family-friendly event will feature highlights such as the world-famous Budweiser Clydesdales and the world’s largest walking flag, which is carried by dozens of marchers. Previous year’s parades were attended by more than 80,000 spectators, so plan to get there early via MARTA.
Where: Peachtree St. and 16th St. in Midtown from 12 noon to 1:30 p.m. Online:atlantastpats.com
Smyrna St. Patrick's Day Fest: Thursday, March 17 and Saturday, March 19
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Paddy like no one's watching at the 18th Annual St. Paddy's Day Festival at the Smyrna Market Village, and little clovers are welcome to join Thursday afternoon and all day Saturday. 13 years and younger get in free. The weekend will have brew-tiful weather accompanied by live music, the dyeing of the fountain green by Smyrna's mayor (Thursday 6 p.m.), Cornhole ATL, drink specials, and games for the little clovers all day long!
Where: Smyrna Market Village, 2840 Atlanta Rd. Smyrna Online:facebook.com
ShamRock The Station: Thursday, March 17
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Central Park will be turning green with free activities and music all day, including musicians, stilt walkers, airbrush tattoo artists, balloon artists, Irish dancers, and bagpipes.
Experience a purely gold St. Patrick's Day celebration during Luck of Avalon! Calling all lads, lassies, and little leprechauns! Join us on Friday, March 11th as we celebrate St. Patrick's Day, Avalon style at Luck of Avalon. Get ready to sham-ROCK the night away in the Plaza with special performances from King O'Sullivan School of Irish Dance + North Georgia Pipes and Drums, live music, Irish flair + of course, green beer.
Worth the Drive: Shamrock City (Rock City Gardens) March 12, 13, 19 & 20
Up for a day trip? Then visit Rock City's annual St. Patrick's Day festival. It's less than a two-hour drive north of Atlanta—and you'll enjoy traditional Irish food (and some non-traditional like green fudge!) plus learn an Irish jig. Take a fun family picture with a St. Patty's-themed costume character. Before you leave, make sure you stop by the Blarney Stone Climbing Wall, where kids can win a "lucky surprise" for reaching the top.
Where: Rock City Gardens, 1400 Patten Rd., Lookout Mountain from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Online:www.seerockcity.com