 You know when you are around 5th Street Market & you look up on Skinner Butte? That amazing Victorian house? Have you ever wondered what life was like when people actually lived there? You are in luck! Or, rather, your kiddo is in luck! Leah Murray has designed a brilliant camp called Victorian Finishing School that allows children to explore what life was like over 100 years ago. We got to ask her all about it! What can parents expect their kids to learn during Victorian Finishing School? Our educational goals are for our students to be able to write a proper thank you letter, know how to thread a needle and sew on a button, and learn a bit of history. Our main goal however, is for them to have fun. We know that not all kids are cut out for the outdoors, sports, or intensely art oriented camps. The underlying theme of our camp use our imagination in a relaxed environment and learn a few skills that might be handy as they get older. How are your camps different from others in our area? We are mixing a bit of history and education disguised as imagination and creativity inside a 100+ year old home. The students are given costumes to dress in and a huge house to imagine living in, while learning to do the things the children that grew up here learned 100 years ago. They get to have tea parties, do art, and play hide-and-seek in a place where they would normally have to be quiet and not touch anything.
Why do you think it's important for kids to learn about these topics? We are becoming increasing out of touch with our past and the connections to others that it teaches us. Kids don't get nearly enough hands on activities in schools, and so many of our wonderful traditions are falling away. When was the last time you wrote a thank you note? Kids aren't learning how to read an analog clock, write cursive, or respect the amount work it takes to make something by hand. If I leave these kids nothing else by the end of the three days, I hope that they are at least curious enough about their ability to create something that isn't on a screen that they find other activities to learn. How would you invite a child who is very tech & screen focused to try out your camp? Everything that you do on the screen started out in the real world somewhere. Anyone can play MineCraft, but how many kids can say they have played hide and seek in a 'castle' in real life? What is the age range of your camps? We have set our age range to 9 to 12. We find this group gets along well socially, but we have allowed students who are 8 to attend if they are advanced writers because of the composition activity. We have found it helpful if the younger student has an older relative or close friend who can attend with them. Some parents might wonder, is this camp just for girls? We get this question a lot. I specifically created curriculum that would be beneficial and inclusive to everyone. Thank you notes and sewing buttons are not exclusive activities. We are open and accepting of all children no matter what their preferences.  How would you invite a child who is very tech & screen focused to try out your camp?
Everything that you do on the screen started out in the real world somewhere. Anyone can play MineCraft, but how many kids can say they have played hide and seek in a 'castle' in real life? Where did the idea to do a Victorian Finishing School Camp come from? Honestly, it came from reading Gail Carringer's Finishing School Series. It's a wonderful series and I was inspired to see if I could do something like it here in Eugene. I don't teach spycraft of course, but I am pleased with what we have created anyway. What are you most excited about teaching the campers? I love all of it. I get emotional when the parents come to the recital on Thursday and I hear the students telling their parents all the little stories I told them on the first day when I am not sure I have their attention yet. I love hearing from the parents how the students want to set the tables for dinner 'the right way' and ask to get supplies to continue learning sewing. I especially love watching the new friendships made by kids who wouldn't have met otherwise. Sometimes the cost of camps can be restrictive for families, do you have anything to help? We offer scholarships! We know that camp and childcare can be a financial burden on families. We are happy to be able to support those families through discounted tuition. We also offer discounts for siblings and for students who are also attending Singing Creek Educational Center Summer camps. (Visit us here for more information) Victorian Finishing School Shelton McMurphy Johnson House 303 Willamette Street, Eugene (Enter Driveway at Third and Pearl Streets) 541 484-0808 Email: director@smjhouse.org June 26th-27th-28th July 24th-25th-26th August 14th-15th-16th 9am-2pm each day ++++++++++++++++ How neat is that? Such a great way for kids to get a sense of what life was like in Eugene almost 150 years ago. & also learn some really beautiful & valuable skills. Thanks, Leah, for sharing Victorian Finishing School Camp with us. We are lucky to have you in Eugene!
1 Comment
Heard of #mealprepmonday? It is the answer to preventing Thursday night drive-thru suppers or forty dollar delivery pizza. You experience what it is like to have a sous chef in your own kitchen. And you JUST FEEL BETTER, because you save money, time, and are eating nutritiously. As a mother of three boys (with one under three months!), my week is altogether more harmonious when I reserve just a little time for meal prep on Sunday or Monday. It’s my Sous Chef Day, where I prep enough ingredients in advance so that I breeze through my weeknight dinner menu. Sure, scheduling and preparing for meal prep day is somewhat of a pain, but I am certain that one hour of prep one day per week saves me hours of time later. Remember our last post on the new Whole Foods store in Eugene and how they are here to serve families? Whole Foods in Eugene is partnering with GoMomGo once again to offer a $50 gift card giveaway to one of our readers and to inspire five weeknight dinners that are quick, healthful, and affordable. Here’s how the Eugene store can help with #mealprepmonday –  The Meat Department. The happy butchers are there to work for you! Our menu this week includes chopped bacon…so I asked them to chop it to reduce my prep time in the kitchen. They assured me that they can and will prepare anything in the meat counter in any way that you ask. Try them!  Discount Days. Coupons. Sales. Try to shop on a Monday and you will score $3 off your rotisserie chicken. Additionally, download the Whole Foods app and peruse the coupons and current sales. They currently have a $5 off $20 of produce coupon available. And don’t forget to check the Whole Deal paper coupon booklet, available in the store.  Freebies. If you are bringing the kiddos, stop by the Customer Service Desk for a free snack.  365 Brand Items. Look for their private Whole Foods or 365 label on all sorts of products – Whole Foods has these high quality products manufactured by reputable companies so they can offer them at a lower price.  A Whole Foods-Inspired |
| Eugene is now home to Whole Foods Market. Their bulk section provides an affordable opportunity to try out some ingredients that may be new to you, are easy to add to your current regimen, and are deeply nourishing –all types of rice, beans, dried fruits, nuts, and lots of different grains. |  |
Their produce department often offers $5 off coupons...and, well, it’s just so pretty.
Look for their private Whole Foods or 365 label on all sorts of products – Whole Foods has these high quality products manufactured by reputable companies so they can offer them at a lower price.
And the Eugene store is designed in a way where it’s also just a fun place to hang out when downtown – think family date with slices of wood-burned oven pizza in their eating area, happy hour at their bar offering local brews,
or trying out one of the local businesses housed within Whole Foods: Ellenos Real Greek Yogurt offering fresh yogurt and smoothies (it’s ridiculously good), or a cup of Wandering Goat coffee.
When you visit, you’ll also find that there are very well educated team members available to answer your questions and make recommendations based on your interests or needs.
Currently, Heng Ou’s book, The Essential Art of Nourishing the New Mother motivates me. Ou highlights some of those “trendy” foods we’ve been hearing about, such as bone broth and turmeric, that have been nourishing people for centuries but are currently new again to us westerners.
Listed below are a few of Ou’s favorite pantry items, all of which can be affordably found
at Whole Foods. Click on links for detailed recipes, inspired by Ou.
Listed below are a few of Ou’s favorite pantry items, all of which can be affordably found
at Whole Foods. Click on links for detailed recipes, inspired by Ou.
- Adzuki beans – add to a Mother’s Bowl or soup/stew. They are small (good for picky eaters with texture issues) and the easiest bean to digest.
- Bulk grains and unsweetened dried fruit – combine to make Coconut Dried Fruit Granola.
- Black sesame seeds – add to smoothies or sprinkle in savory or sweet dishes for extra crunch. This ingredient is age defying, offers lactation support for nursing moms, and has B vitamins and iron.
- Goji berries – infuse these to make a nutrient rich hot tea or an iced tea you can sip on all day.
- Spirulina and Bee pollen – add one of these supplements to a smoothie for natural energy, an easy B vitamin and protein boost, and purification.
More Whole Foods tips:
And…Whole Foods Eugene is giving away a $50 gift card to a GoMomGo Reader! So awesome!
To enter:
Comment on this post with what you love about Whole Foods (if you've been there) or what interests you in Whole Foods if you haven't been yet.
You can also enter on our Facebook page & share for more entries.
Giveaway winner will be announced on Sunday, January 1, 2017 at noon. Happy New Year, right?
Hooray!
- Check out their weekly sales flyer
- The Whole Deal coupon book is available in store
- Download the Whole Foods digital coupon app
- Kids 12 & under can enjoy a free piece of fruit every time they are in the store (fruit is located at the Customer Service Desk).
- The Eugene store offers a private upstairs space that can be reserved for social groups, businesses, boards, etc…for free. The space has been used for mom's coffee dates (they have a baby gate), mom’s night out, and wine & cheese tasting events.
- They are committed to the community! Since opening in September 2016, they have donated over $23,000 to the Eugene/Springfield community through their 5% days.
- January 6-8, 25% off ALL supplements...some supplements will already be offered at promo price so will actually be 50% off when combined with the sale.
- January 14, Health & Wellness Fair from 10am-2pm – various vendors will be sampling their products, healthy recipe ideas, and Eugene Yoga will be running a couple free yoga classes in the private space upstairs.
- January 21, Barre3 free pop-up class and wellness education from 10:30am-1pm.
- February 11, Free Valentine’s day craft for kids, from 12-2pm.
- February 16, A Registered Dietician from PeaceHealth will be hosting a free educational class on maternal health, from 6pm-7pm.
And…Whole Foods Eugene is giving away a $50 gift card to a GoMomGo Reader! So awesome!
To enter:
Comment on this post with what you love about Whole Foods (if you've been there) or what interests you in Whole Foods if you haven't been yet.
You can also enter on our Facebook page & share for more entries.
Giveaway winner will be announced on Sunday, January 1, 2017 at noon. Happy New Year, right?
Hooray!
Summer is approaching. And while GoMomGo has tried to make you aware of all the events, farms, and activities to enjoy with your family, it’s also nice to send the kids away for a bit of those long summer days.
May I recommend Nearby Nature?
May I recommend Nearby Nature?
The Nearby Nature program is currently based at Alton Baker Park, where they are also the park hosts. The program has existed for 24 years. They provide all sorts of classes, events and camps for the city.
My son and I went to visit and get a feel for their summer day camps. This is the part of the Learnscape, which encompasses fruit trees, herbs, native plants, and vegetables.
My son and I went to visit and get a feel for their summer day camps. This is the part of the Learnscape, which encompasses fruit trees, herbs, native plants, and vegetables.
Throughout the area are five special gathering places, such as Hazelnut Hollow and The Nest, which serve as home base for the different age groups at camp.
Natural shade and tree stumps provide a space for an outdoor theater, a swelling garden provides snacks and learning discoveries, trees beg to be climbed and burrows of mud provide sensory play --mother nature style.
There is plenty of unstructured free play, sandbox time, storytelling, art with recyclables, toys of rocks and sticks, and creativity with nature. Children are invited to engage all of their senses as they explore all that Nearby Nature has to offer.
There are day camps for children age 3-11. The preschoolers stay close to home base and go on a few short nature walks. The 4-5 year olds mosey out to the park, and kids age 6 & up venture out often for field trips, to climb trees, and to scale rock walls.
Each class has one paid adult instructor, one adult volunteer, and one teen volunteer. There are a max of 12 kids per camp. There is currently plenty of room in the preschool camps while the elementary age camps are filling up fast.
Each class has one paid adult instructor, one adult volunteer, and one teen volunteer. There are a max of 12 kids per camp. There is currently plenty of room in the preschool camps while the elementary age camps are filling up fast.
Nearby Nature also holds events and programs throughout the year. NatureQuest is coming up soon on June 25 from 10am-12pm. The whole family can attend for an outdoor play day in the Learnscape. Build fairy houses, stick forts, sandcastles, and more! Members FREE, non-members $5/family. Pre-register here or by calling 541-687-9699.
Visit their calendar to read about all of Nearby Nature's offerings!
Visit their calendar to read about all of Nearby Nature's offerings!
There are a few things I hope my children catch on to and hold dear in life. One is music appreciation, and even better, musical skills. We strive to expose them to all types of music and give them ample opportunity to play and experiment. I’m so grateful we live in an artistic community such as Eugene that provides multitude opportunity to learn, appreciate and enjoy music.
Recently my 6-year old son and I were invited to check out a brand new business, AllStar Rock Foundation, in downtown Eugene.
Recently my 6-year old son and I were invited to check out a brand new business, AllStar Rock Foundation, in downtown Eugene.
Proprietors Shane and Lisa Johnson were inspired by the franchise School of Rock. Their children were a part of the School of Rock in Dallas and they saw firsthand how it instilled confidence, poise, public-speaking ability, and self-awareness. Not all of their children continued on in music, but they all share deep gratitude for the exposure.
Caitlin Johnson, their daughter, is AllStar’s bass instructor. She is a bubbly, enthusiastic, generous soul who is so excited for the opportunity to teach Eugene her beloved instrument. She has played with some serious musicians – most recently having played bass for Dalton Rapattoni’s band, Flyaway Hero. Rapattoni is the most current third place winner from American Idol. She was sweet enough to help my three year-old with bass scales…
Caitlin Johnson, their daughter, is AllStar’s bass instructor. She is a bubbly, enthusiastic, generous soul who is so excited for the opportunity to teach Eugene her beloved instrument. She has played with some serious musicians – most recently having played bass for Dalton Rapattoni’s band, Flyaway Hero. Rapattoni is the most current third place winner from American Idol. She was sweet enough to help my three year-old with bass scales…
while my six year-old son had a one-on-one lesson with Jake…
Jake Fitzgerald has been playing music for 11 years. He started on bass at age 10 and went on to study guitar, drums, piano, ukulele, banjo, and dulcimer to name a few. His music influences span the spectrum from Punk, Rock, Folk, Jazz, Classical and beyond, creating a plethora of music styles for him to pull from to expand his own creative styles. He has had the experience of touring and recording with bands over the years. Jake has an encouraging and good-natured attitude about learning music, which his students love about him. He loves sharing his skills and knowledge of music with all his students and makes each lesson unique to that student.
What I deeply appreciate about All Star Rock is their conviction to get the students playing onstage as soon as possible, playing music they enjoy. After their first private lesson, the student will get to plug in and immediately get that experience playing on the AllStar stage. This is highly motivating for the student…my 6 year old learned some legit strumming patters and chords on the electric in just one private lesson and was super serious about his opportunity to play on stage. Now, nearly a month after that lesson, he continues to ask when he gets to go back and “plug in”!
AllStar Rock’s programs are for students age 5 through adult. Students learn how to play by rocking together with fellow peers, creating a supportive and motivating environment in which to learn. Each program is a 10-week course that culminates in at least two performances in a concert-like setting at a local venue (possibilities include Beergarden, Cozmic Pizza, and a few outdoor venues). During the 10 weeks, the student has a 1-on-1 private lesson each week with an instructor and one weekly rehearsal with their newly formed band. This integrated method inspires students to be their best, peaks their interest in the theory of music and creates a team dynamic. You can visit their website to sign up for a free lesson!
See program descriptions and details here.
A great way to try out AllStar is to sign up for summer camp! If you sign up before June 10 you get 25% off. Camps are for 7-18 year olds, no experience necessary.
And again, this place isn't just for your kid. I seriously can't stop thinking about doing an adult program at some time. I've always wanted to learn the bass! I highly encourage you to wishlist an AllStar rock program for a much needed gift to you or your partner someday!! I'll come watch you perform at the Beergarden!
Do you own a home or dream of owning a home? Are you feeling behind on current real estate and how it has changed in the last (tumultuous!) five years in our city and in our country?
GoMomGo is so happy to have met Amanda Bryan, an Oregon real estate broker with Keller Williams Realty Eugene and Springfield. She has a great story and is UP-TO-DATE on what is going on with Lane County real estate. We surveyed many people and asked her the hardest questions we could come up with, and because we found the answers so helpful and relevant, we decided to share them with you!
GoMomGo is so happy to have met Amanda Bryan, an Oregon real estate broker with Keller Williams Realty Eugene and Springfield. She has a great story and is UP-TO-DATE on what is going on with Lane County real estate. We surveyed many people and asked her the hardest questions we could come up with, and because we found the answers so helpful and relevant, we decided to share them with you!
GoMomGo: How do I know if it is better to rent or buy in Eugene right now?
Amanda: A great way to start to figure this out is to answer these questions:
If you answer yes to two+ of these questions and you have good credit and two+ years of consistent income, it is worth looking into. I offer these consultations for free with no pressure or obligation. I love helping people reach their goals.
GoMomGo: What sort of things makes the market a seller's market or a buyer's market? Do things like the upcoming presidential election have anything to do with that?
Amanda: A sellers market is created when the number of homes on the market does not meet buyer demand. Market demand is measured in months, meaning that if no new homes were to go up for sale it would take that many months to sell out of houses. A balanced market is about six months, and anything below leans toward a seller’s market while anything above favors a buyer. As a whole, Lane County is currently in a seller’s market with 2.8 months of inventory as of February.
As far presidential elections go…Yes and No. A couple perspectives 1) If your income is derived from an industry that could be affected drastically, then it is possible that an election year could influence buying or selling…but most often, individual people will still need to have a home to live in and job to go to regardless of the outcome of elections. I would not recommend waiting to buy or sell in a big election year unless you know it could result in losing your income or moving. 2) While elections themselves don't have a huge impact to the market in the short-term, policies created by elected officials can have a great impact on the real estate market in the long-term. As city boundaries change, property taxes shift, and public services get voted in or out, then the area income and quality of life is affected. As a homeowner, it pays to get involved and vote. As a local Director on the Springfield Board of Realtors and an Oregon and National Realtor, I advocate on a political level for bills/policies/laws/candidates that have homeowners and my client’s best interest in mind.
GoMomGo: Is there a way to get into the market with a 10K down payment? 5k? No down payment?
Amanda: Yes. Depending on your income and credit there are several programs and home-buyer assistance programs in our area to help buyers get into home with very little or no down.
GoMomGo: For people who do not know if they will stay in one area for more than 5 years, is there any merit to purchasing an investment property (vacation home or rental property) even if they don't own their own home?
Amanda: Yes, this is a more common trend in larger metro areas where home prices close to employers are way out of reach for entry buyers. Purchasing homes without the intent to occupy will fall under different lending rules, so you'll wan to be clear with your Broker and Lender…but absolutely, this can be a great way to get into the real estate market.
GoMomGo: It seems many homes are either new with tiny yards or really old with nice, big yards. Is there a happy medium in our county?
Amanda: I hear your struggle; they are out there for the right price. Depending on where in town you are looking and what price range you are in, it can be challenging to find. A service I offer my buyers is to help figure out where the homes that fit their needs are located, and what price range they need to be in to get the house they want, if it is available.
GoMomGo: What are the types of things I should consider when choosing a realtor? There are so many it's hard to tell what makes one stand out over the other.
Amanda: Realtors come in all personality types and working styles. If you want the best service it is ideal to ask for an interview before you start working together and ask for their commitment to reaching your goals together. If you don't feel comfortable talking to them in the beginning, it's safe to say it could get worse and cost you in the long run.
More of Amanda’s FAQ’s available on her website:
When Buying
When Selling
Amanda: A great way to start to figure this out is to answer these questions:
- Do you want to own a home and enjoy perks of home ownership?
- Would it benefit you to earn an average of 3% of your homes value in equity each year while doing nothing more than paying to maintain your home and paying a mortgage equal to your area's average rent?
- Are you paying more in rent than you could be paying on a mortgage?
- Are you planning on staying in the area for 5-10 years?
- Do you have a large amount in savings or access to funds to assist with a down payment/closing costs (count this as a yes if you have between $5000-10,000)?
If you answer yes to two+ of these questions and you have good credit and two+ years of consistent income, it is worth looking into. I offer these consultations for free with no pressure or obligation. I love helping people reach their goals.
GoMomGo: What sort of things makes the market a seller's market or a buyer's market? Do things like the upcoming presidential election have anything to do with that?
Amanda: A sellers market is created when the number of homes on the market does not meet buyer demand. Market demand is measured in months, meaning that if no new homes were to go up for sale it would take that many months to sell out of houses. A balanced market is about six months, and anything below leans toward a seller’s market while anything above favors a buyer. As a whole, Lane County is currently in a seller’s market with 2.8 months of inventory as of February.
As far presidential elections go…Yes and No. A couple perspectives 1) If your income is derived from an industry that could be affected drastically, then it is possible that an election year could influence buying or selling…but most often, individual people will still need to have a home to live in and job to go to regardless of the outcome of elections. I would not recommend waiting to buy or sell in a big election year unless you know it could result in losing your income or moving. 2) While elections themselves don't have a huge impact to the market in the short-term, policies created by elected officials can have a great impact on the real estate market in the long-term. As city boundaries change, property taxes shift, and public services get voted in or out, then the area income and quality of life is affected. As a homeowner, it pays to get involved and vote. As a local Director on the Springfield Board of Realtors and an Oregon and National Realtor, I advocate on a political level for bills/policies/laws/candidates that have homeowners and my client’s best interest in mind.
GoMomGo: Is there a way to get into the market with a 10K down payment? 5k? No down payment?
Amanda: Yes. Depending on your income and credit there are several programs and home-buyer assistance programs in our area to help buyers get into home with very little or no down.
GoMomGo: For people who do not know if they will stay in one area for more than 5 years, is there any merit to purchasing an investment property (vacation home or rental property) even if they don't own their own home?
Amanda: Yes, this is a more common trend in larger metro areas where home prices close to employers are way out of reach for entry buyers. Purchasing homes without the intent to occupy will fall under different lending rules, so you'll wan to be clear with your Broker and Lender…but absolutely, this can be a great way to get into the real estate market.
GoMomGo: It seems many homes are either new with tiny yards or really old with nice, big yards. Is there a happy medium in our county?
Amanda: I hear your struggle; they are out there for the right price. Depending on where in town you are looking and what price range you are in, it can be challenging to find. A service I offer my buyers is to help figure out where the homes that fit their needs are located, and what price range they need to be in to get the house they want, if it is available.
GoMomGo: What are the types of things I should consider when choosing a realtor? There are so many it's hard to tell what makes one stand out over the other.
Amanda: Realtors come in all personality types and working styles. If you want the best service it is ideal to ask for an interview before you start working together and ask for their commitment to reaching your goals together. If you don't feel comfortable talking to them in the beginning, it's safe to say it could get worse and cost you in the long run.
More of Amanda’s FAQ’s available on her website:
When Buying
When Selling
Check Out Amanda's Recent Client Testimonials:
“Amanda has a great personality and she treats you as if you were her personal friend. She asks the right questions upfront in order to help you find the home that’s right for you. Rather than pushing you, she is willing to walk with you until you are 100% ready. Her expertise and knowledge make home buying easy, and her addictive laugh and grace make home buying enjoyable…She is willing to guide you from start to finish and she understands urgency and execution. If you are struggling to meet timelines and documentation requirements, she will quickly learn how to resolve the issue in order to help her clients. Also, her hours are flexible and she is willing to make time at anytime.”
- from a single person in Eugene
“I knew our budget was on the low side and I was worried that no realtor would be interested in helping us, or that we would be low on their priorities. Amanda was thrilled to help us find our home no matter what our budget. She didn't pressure us to up our budget, she didn't show us houses outside our price range, and she answered all my calls and questions promptly. She scheduled all appointments and got us into our first house faster than I ever imagined possible…I am fortunate to have worked with Amanda and she is the first person I will go to in the future.”
-from a family of 3 in Eugene
“Buying a house can be daunting. Amanda was there to walk us through the inspection, the signing, and is still available today for any questions we have! Go in, talk with her, and tell her your dreams. She cares…and she strives to help you find your home you belong in, and she is a very valuable asset!”
- from a young married couple in Eugene
Ever since my son learned to crawl, there have been a few things that were quite certain – he is FAST, agile and veeeery busy. I have spent the last six years trying to keep up with his ever-moving body. One can only holler, “Control your body!” so many times before realizing I. Need. Help.
Last fall when he turned 6, we began a quest for a martial arts studio in Eugene – hoping to find a fun, natural way for him to learn to discipline his body. No one in my family has trained in martial arts before so we were uncertain of what to look for. After visiting a few places, we still felt unsure. I’m seriously so glad we took a chance on one more place.
Last fall when he turned 6, we began a quest for a martial arts studio in Eugene – hoping to find a fun, natural way for him to learn to discipline his body. No one in my family has trained in martial arts before so we were uncertain of what to look for. After visiting a few places, we still felt unsure. I’m seriously so glad we took a chance on one more place.
My son began training with the Little Champs (age 4-7) at McKenzie Martial Arts (on W. 11th across from Lowes) last September. During his complimentary visit I noticed a few things: the coaches called him by name, remembered his name throughout the duration of the class, and they asked the other students to help him out and show him how things are done. It was done in a very respectable, authentic manner.
The kids are quickly taught that they are teammates and are there to assist each other. There is an intentional balance of play, instruction and drills. I also noticed the coaches were grown adults rather than high school or junior students. It is abundantly clear that MMA’s coaches understand child development and how to work with each age level to help them succeed.
The kids are quickly taught that they are teammates and are there to assist each other. There is an intentional balance of play, instruction and drills. I also noticed the coaches were grown adults rather than high school or junior students. It is abundantly clear that MMA’s coaches understand child development and how to work with each age level to help them succeed.
I later discovered that the two coaches of the Little Champs, Adam Roberts and Terry Britten, are the co-founders of MMA, which started in 2009. I am so grateful that they take the time to coach every age level – from age 4 to adult. Read more about their story here.
I knew in our first visit that we had found our place, and as I was thanking Coach Adam following class, my son ran up to me – as if on cue – and declared, “MOM! I pick this place!!”
After several months of watching my son develop his skills, grow in confidence and just have fun in his 2x week MMA regimen, I was a bit jealous. The office manager, Holly, encouraged me to try the women’s kickfit class – so I have officially been training at MMA too. You know the kind of exercise that hurts so good? This is women’s kickfit at MMA. Coach Shannon crafts a workout that balances strength and cardio all while learning self-defense skills.
I knew in our first visit that we had found our place, and as I was thanking Coach Adam following class, my son ran up to me – as if on cue – and declared, “MOM! I pick this place!!”
After several months of watching my son develop his skills, grow in confidence and just have fun in his 2x week MMA regimen, I was a bit jealous. The office manager, Holly, encouraged me to try the women’s kickfit class – so I have officially been training at MMA too. You know the kind of exercise that hurts so good? This is women’s kickfit at MMA. Coach Shannon crafts a workout that balances strength and cardio all while learning self-defense skills.
There is truly something for every family member at MMA – even a specially designed play area where younger siblings hang while parents observe class. Also, Emily of GoMomGo will soon bring us another MMA story about her kids training in the Juniors’ class (age 8-12) and her husband training in the adult classes.
Q &A with Coach Adam
GoMomGo: What are some of the long-term benefits of a student training in Jeet Kune Do and Gracie Jiu Jitsu? What other training styles do students learn and how do they differ?
Coach Adam: McKenzie Martial Arts is a self-defense school. We are the only school teaching both Bruce Lee's contemporary Jeet Kune Do and Gracie Jiu Jitsu. Everything we teach is 100% intended for, and applicable to real life street defense and bully defense. We are grateful that there are traditional studios in our community that carry on the time-honored customs of Tae Kwon Do, Karate, Kung Fu, etc. but what we teach at MMA is fighting concepts. Everyone that leaves our school will be able to realistically defend themselves regardless of their age, size or ability.
GoMomGo: Your motto is "keep it playful." Can you explain that?
Coach Adam: This is an amazing motto that comes from our Gracie Jiu Jitsu family. It truly embodies the lifestyle and attitude at McKenzie Martial Arts. There is a certain level of intensity and seriousness that is inherent with self-defense and combat sports. Most people can easily match this intensity and "KeepitReal", but we want to instill in our students a training philosophy that will keep you on the mats for a lifetime. Life is serious, "KeepitPlayful" is a good reminder to us all to have fun and stay safe!
GoMomGo: MMA consistently has been voted top martial arts studio by the Register Guard...what do you suppose are some of the reasons MMA stands out?
Coach Adam: We are excited to announce that we were just again voted the 2016 top Martial Arts Studio in Lane County! We have been honored with this award every year since we have opened our doors and are humbled each time by this amazing community recognition. We believe that we stand out from other martial arts schools because of our realistic and contemporary approach. We truly have a unique system that appeals to much of our community.
GoMomGo: Anything else you'd want families who are new to martial arts to know?
Coach Adam: McKenzie Martial Arts is truly dedicated to empowering our community. We believe that the stronger we are as individuals, the stronger we are as a whole. We hope that everyone has a chance at some point to come "KeepitPlayful" with us!
Thanks, Adam! So great to hear all about McKenzie Martial Arts!
GoMomGo: What are some of the long-term benefits of a student training in Jeet Kune Do and Gracie Jiu Jitsu? What other training styles do students learn and how do they differ?
Coach Adam: McKenzie Martial Arts is a self-defense school. We are the only school teaching both Bruce Lee's contemporary Jeet Kune Do and Gracie Jiu Jitsu. Everything we teach is 100% intended for, and applicable to real life street defense and bully defense. We are grateful that there are traditional studios in our community that carry on the time-honored customs of Tae Kwon Do, Karate, Kung Fu, etc. but what we teach at MMA is fighting concepts. Everyone that leaves our school will be able to realistically defend themselves regardless of their age, size or ability.
GoMomGo: Your motto is "keep it playful." Can you explain that?
Coach Adam: This is an amazing motto that comes from our Gracie Jiu Jitsu family. It truly embodies the lifestyle and attitude at McKenzie Martial Arts. There is a certain level of intensity and seriousness that is inherent with self-defense and combat sports. Most people can easily match this intensity and "KeepitReal", but we want to instill in our students a training philosophy that will keep you on the mats for a lifetime. Life is serious, "KeepitPlayful" is a good reminder to us all to have fun and stay safe!
GoMomGo: MMA consistently has been voted top martial arts studio by the Register Guard...what do you suppose are some of the reasons MMA stands out?
Coach Adam: We are excited to announce that we were just again voted the 2016 top Martial Arts Studio in Lane County! We have been honored with this award every year since we have opened our doors and are humbled each time by this amazing community recognition. We believe that we stand out from other martial arts schools because of our realistic and contemporary approach. We truly have a unique system that appeals to much of our community.
GoMomGo: Anything else you'd want families who are new to martial arts to know?
Coach Adam: McKenzie Martial Arts is truly dedicated to empowering our community. We believe that the stronger we are as individuals, the stronger we are as a whole. We hope that everyone has a chance at some point to come "KeepitPlayful" with us!
Thanks, Adam! So great to hear all about McKenzie Martial Arts!
NEW/PROSPECTIVE STUDENTS -- MMA wants to invite you to come visit! Simply show up 10 minutes early for the class you want to visit and talk with a coach or staff at the front desk to get started. Mention GoMomGo referred you - if you join by May 21, you will get 50% off enrollment fee.
Current MMA Schedule.
Also, visit their FAQ page for more helpful info.
CURRENT STUDENTS – mention you read the GoMomGo article and get 10% off in the pro shop through May 21.
Be sure to check out MMA's awesome summer camps, too. They have an early bird discount through June 20. Such a perfect way to get your kids moving & learning this summer!
Current MMA Schedule.
Also, visit their FAQ page for more helpful info.
CURRENT STUDENTS – mention you read the GoMomGo article and get 10% off in the pro shop through May 21.
Be sure to check out MMA's awesome summer camps, too. They have an early bird discount through June 20. Such a perfect way to get your kids moving & learning this summer!
When you hear the camp instructor say, “Unfortunately we don’t have the technology to put lasers on our Speeders...although, that would be pretty cool,” you know it’s gonna be a good day at camp.
My kindergartner and I recently visited one of Bricks 4 Kidz many spring break camps. This one was themed Star Wars Lego and met at Willamalane Sports and Recreation Center.
My little guy hummed the Star Wars theme song the whole way there. He is the kid who uses the Force to open the automatic sliding doors at Target (moms of little boys -- you know what I'm talking about). So I was quite appreciative of the Star Wars-y ambience, complete with music and a video, upon arrival.
We were greeted by Joe, one of B4K instructors in Lane County. B4K is a franchised business with a local chapter in Lane County, recently started by Zach Smith and his mother.
Zach said, “I originally found Bricks 4 Kidz while looking for cool education programs for kids. I've always been very passionate about helping people improve their lives. Bricks 4 Kidz looked like the perfect opportunity to offer something fun and educational to make a positive impact in the community. I showed it to my mom and she fell in love with the idea too.”
B4K classes provide an extraordinary atmosphere for boys and girls, where they learn, build, and play with Lego bricks. Zach said, “I really wish I had something like this when I was a kid. It's very inspiring watching the fun and excitement among the kids while they build creativitiy and learn things that help get them ready for the real world. The kids and the teachers have a blast together which makes it very rewarding.”
Learn more here about B4K. In addition to spring break and summer camps, they also do a daily after-school program at a number of local schools. Check the list here.
My little guy hummed the Star Wars theme song the whole way there. He is the kid who uses the Force to open the automatic sliding doors at Target (moms of little boys -- you know what I'm talking about). So I was quite appreciative of the Star Wars-y ambience, complete with music and a video, upon arrival.
We were greeted by Joe, one of B4K instructors in Lane County. B4K is a franchised business with a local chapter in Lane County, recently started by Zach Smith and his mother.
Zach said, “I originally found Bricks 4 Kidz while looking for cool education programs for kids. I've always been very passionate about helping people improve their lives. Bricks 4 Kidz looked like the perfect opportunity to offer something fun and educational to make a positive impact in the community. I showed it to my mom and she fell in love with the idea too.”
B4K classes provide an extraordinary atmosphere for boys and girls, where they learn, build, and play with Lego bricks. Zach said, “I really wish I had something like this when I was a kid. It's very inspiring watching the fun and excitement among the kids while they build creativitiy and learn things that help get them ready for the real world. The kids and the teachers have a blast together which makes it very rewarding.”
Learn more here about B4K. In addition to spring break and summer camps, they also do a daily after-school program at a number of local schools. Check the list here.
B4K supplies tablets and project kits from which instructors can generate dozens of Lego creations. On the last day of the Star Wars Lego Camp, the students built a Speeder. They watched a two-minute video to become familiar with the concept of a Star Wars Speeder and then gathered around tables to build.
Joe said this was the most time-consuming and challenging project of the week but after a quick informal survey of the kids, it was also the most favorite project. Kids like a good challenge!
Students worked at different paces, those who finished first were encouraged by Joe to, “Partner with someone and help them finish, like a good Jedi.” Once the Speeders were complete, it was time to race!
Besides building models, students also do mosaics using single bricks and a Lego base board and 3D figures using classic bricks.
I appreciate how B4K does not use Lego themed sets (which are no small cost and are NEVER on sale) and teaches kids concepts to use their imagination with the basic, classic Lego bricks. I also appreciate Joe’s thoughtful, conscientious instruction. He emphasized play and kept encouraging kids they could do these challenging projects on their own – even when the kids were stumped. They perservered and made it through a very tough project!
B4K wants GoMomGo readers to know that the program is the perfect combination of fun and educational. The hands-on building helps engage kids. In the after school classes B4K teaches concepts of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) which gives kids valuable concepts and skills that will help them later in life. They work in teams and learn to share and work together.
GOMOMGO DISCOUNT!!
Zach and B4K are happy to offer a summer camp discount to GoMomGo readers. Please call 541-600-6614, mention GoMomGo and receive $25 off a summer camp!
Summer is coming soon! Make sure you check our summer camp page to start planning and stay tuned for our next Summer Camp feature with Old School Eugene!
I appreciate how B4K does not use Lego themed sets (which are no small cost and are NEVER on sale) and teaches kids concepts to use their imagination with the basic, classic Lego bricks. I also appreciate Joe’s thoughtful, conscientious instruction. He emphasized play and kept encouraging kids they could do these challenging projects on their own – even when the kids were stumped. They perservered and made it through a very tough project!
B4K wants GoMomGo readers to know that the program is the perfect combination of fun and educational. The hands-on building helps engage kids. In the after school classes B4K teaches concepts of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) which gives kids valuable concepts and skills that will help them later in life. They work in teams and learn to share and work together.
GOMOMGO DISCOUNT!!
Zach and B4K are happy to offer a summer camp discount to GoMomGo readers. Please call 541-600-6614, mention GoMomGo and receive $25 off a summer camp!
Summer is coming soon! Make sure you check our summer camp page to start planning and stay tuned for our next Summer Camp feature with Old School Eugene!
Folks, it's August. The end of summer is near. This is both good and bad. Good because school starts again (hello structure, we've missed you so), and scarves and boots and everything pumpkin. Bad because the water in the parks gets turned off and you're stuck inside more often (hello rain, we've missed you too), and some of us become football widows and after a while all the pumpkin everything starts to be a little bit gross.
However! It's not too late to take advantage of some summer fun. Today I want to share a super fun little afternoon activity that is an excellent "oh gosh what should we do today?" option.
So the Eugene Saturday Market has a much smaller market on Tuesdays and Thursdays. The location is the same - downtown in the park blocks near 8th and Oak, and it opens at 10:00 am. Here's what we've been doing: we park halfway between the market and the Eugene Public Library downtown branch, which is on 10th between Olive and Charnelton. Think Broadway, from about Charnelton to High. Once we've parked, we spend time at both places - the library and the market. It makes for a really lovely afternoon!
Some thoughts:
Tuesday mornings are the story time for two year olds at the downtown library. There are two chances to catch it: 10:15 and 11:00. If you've got a two year old (blessings unto you) that works perfectly! If not, the library still has lots of fun stuff to check out. - Thursdays are story times for one year olds. Same times as above. - Just for future reference, Wednesdays are for preschoolers and Fridays are for babies under one year old. :) - The Tuesday and Thursday markets don't run all year long. Be sure to check the website below for dates. - There have been several different food carts at the market when we've been there. These make for such a fun lunch! We've also gotten pizza at Sizzle Pie, which is a super affordable option. We've also packed a picnic lunch and eaten it on the grass at the market.- Next Tuesday, August 11th, is the downtown library's last summer reading program. Nearby Nature is presenting animal-inspired stories and hands on art. There are two chances to catch this: 1:00 and 3:00. Fine print: These programs fill up really fast. You can pick up free tickets starting 30 minutes before the event begins. Be sure to do that. Then be prepared to sit on the floor - the room is mostly floor space with a few rows of chairs in the back. The aisle is narrow and they want people to stay seated. This is not a great choice for wiggly toddlers. - Since the market is open on Saturdays too, this makes for an awesome family date. The library even has a family story time each Saturday at 10:15. Hit the story time, check out a new batch of books for the week, go have lunch at the Saturday Market, grab some veggies to try to entice your children to eat green things, and head home. Doesn't that sound lovely!? - If you're not in a rush, take your time to wander around on Broadway. My four year old loves to just walk up and down the street and look at the people, peek in the windows, and watch the cars and trucks drive by. Lots of wonderful conversation opportunities. - Bring your quarters. Parking on the streets downtown is metered.- Bring a book for yourself. If you're lucky, there will be other littles running around in the outdoor courtyard that's outside of the children's area at the library. The kids can play and you can read and thank your lucky stars that you picked up a latte on the way into the library because this is about as perfect as parenting gets.
The Essentials:
Parking: I'd say shoot for Broadway on a weekday. On a Saturday? Try the parking garage near 8th and Park.
Cost: The library is free, and just walking around the market is free as well.
Food: Pack a picnic or plan on purchasing lunch or snacks. There are lots of options.
Restrooms: Portapotties at the market, flush toilets at the library
Resting/Nursing spots: Lots of benches
Push or Wear: Either one works
Time Frame: Two-ish hours
Here are the websites:
Market: http://www.lanecountyfarmersmarket.org/
Library: http://www.eugene-or.gov/library
Is there anything else downtown that you like to do while you're in that area? Please share!
Happy Adventuring!
However! It's not too late to take advantage of some summer fun. Today I want to share a super fun little afternoon activity that is an excellent "oh gosh what should we do today?" option.
So the Eugene Saturday Market has a much smaller market on Tuesdays and Thursdays. The location is the same - downtown in the park blocks near 8th and Oak, and it opens at 10:00 am. Here's what we've been doing: we park halfway between the market and the Eugene Public Library downtown branch, which is on 10th between Olive and Charnelton. Think Broadway, from about Charnelton to High. Once we've parked, we spend time at both places - the library and the market. It makes for a really lovely afternoon!
Some thoughts:
Tuesday mornings are the story time for two year olds at the downtown library. There are two chances to catch it: 10:15 and 11:00. If you've got a two year old (blessings unto you) that works perfectly! If not, the library still has lots of fun stuff to check out. - Thursdays are story times for one year olds. Same times as above. - Just for future reference, Wednesdays are for preschoolers and Fridays are for babies under one year old. :) - The Tuesday and Thursday markets don't run all year long. Be sure to check the website below for dates. - There have been several different food carts at the market when we've been there. These make for such a fun lunch! We've also gotten pizza at Sizzle Pie, which is a super affordable option. We've also packed a picnic lunch and eaten it on the grass at the market.- Next Tuesday, August 11th, is the downtown library's last summer reading program. Nearby Nature is presenting animal-inspired stories and hands on art. There are two chances to catch this: 1:00 and 3:00. Fine print: These programs fill up really fast. You can pick up free tickets starting 30 minutes before the event begins. Be sure to do that. Then be prepared to sit on the floor - the room is mostly floor space with a few rows of chairs in the back. The aisle is narrow and they want people to stay seated. This is not a great choice for wiggly toddlers. - Since the market is open on Saturdays too, this makes for an awesome family date. The library even has a family story time each Saturday at 10:15. Hit the story time, check out a new batch of books for the week, go have lunch at the Saturday Market, grab some veggies to try to entice your children to eat green things, and head home. Doesn't that sound lovely!? - If you're not in a rush, take your time to wander around on Broadway. My four year old loves to just walk up and down the street and look at the people, peek in the windows, and watch the cars and trucks drive by. Lots of wonderful conversation opportunities. - Bring your quarters. Parking on the streets downtown is metered.- Bring a book for yourself. If you're lucky, there will be other littles running around in the outdoor courtyard that's outside of the children's area at the library. The kids can play and you can read and thank your lucky stars that you picked up a latte on the way into the library because this is about as perfect as parenting gets.
The Essentials:
Parking: I'd say shoot for Broadway on a weekday. On a Saturday? Try the parking garage near 8th and Park.
Cost: The library is free, and just walking around the market is free as well.
Food: Pack a picnic or plan on purchasing lunch or snacks. There are lots of options.
Restrooms: Portapotties at the market, flush toilets at the library
Resting/Nursing spots: Lots of benches
Push or Wear: Either one works
Time Frame: Two-ish hours
Here are the websites:
Market: http://www.lanecountyfarmersmarket.org/
Library: http://www.eugene-or.gov/library
Is there anything else downtown that you like to do while you're in that area? Please share!
Happy Adventuring!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Megan Defferding is the mom to two super fun boys who love to find great stuff to do all around Lane County! Check out her blog series, Happy Adventuring, weekly on GoMomGo.
Megan Defferding is the mom to two super fun boys who love to find great stuff to do all around Lane County! Check out her blog series, Happy Adventuring, weekly on GoMomGo.
Fanfare! Drum rolls! Cutting of ribbons and such! Summer has officially arrived, because the city has turned the water features on at the parks! Which means the next three months of your life will be filled with dumping sand out of shoes and trying to fit your four year old in a pair of 24 month shorts because the ones that fit him got wet and you really need to go into Costco because for some reason your family is constantly demanding to be fed. So, to kick things off, why don't we take a look at one of my family's favorite parks. It's probably one you hang out at too.
Oakmont Park
2295 Oakmont Way
Eugene, OR 97401
Oakmont Park
2295 Oakmont Way
Eugene, OR 97401
This park is super popular, and I think there are 3 reasons why:
1. It's centrally located.
2. Hello you can walk to Starbucks!
3. It's actually a really great park.
Here's what we like:
- There is a very fun little pretend house that is always a hit.
- Great water features - both a small spray and play to run in and a pouring/pipe system near the sand
- Lots of shade
- A great play structure
- Lovely hills all around - perfect for running out the crazies!
- It's set pretty far from the road
- Surrounded by a nice paved trail for bikes and other wheels
- Water fountain
- A few garbage cans
- A fun little patch of bushes that makes little kids feel like explorers
- Sand. I can't stand the stuff but it sure keeps littles busy. Have we talked about the magic of baby powder? I can't remember. Anyway, put a shaker of baby powder in your bag. Shake it all over those sandy hands and feet, and the sand will wipe right off. Easy peasy.
- There's a basketball hoop, so you can rock a game of horse if you have big kids!
Here's what we don't so much like:
- No bathrooms
- Parking is sort of a pain - you have to cross a pretty busy street if there aren't any open spaces right in front of the park (there are crosswalks but no light to guarantee you the right away)
- I feel like the structure isn't super accessible for really small ones. There is a very steep bridge and an equally steep tunnel that can be slightly intimidating. That being said, we've been going to Oakmont since my biggest boy could walk, and he's never complained. :)
Thought of the day: You know that bag that you're always hauling to the park? The overflowing tote with the snacks and the sunscreen and the hats and the shovels and the wipes? Okay, well I've been using a canvas bag that was super handy because it had a zipper, which meant that when it tipped over, all the stuff wouldn't come tumbling out. However, it was so little! Way too small to fit all of the stuff that littles require for a long afternoon at the park. So a friend of mine brilliantly shared that she uses an IKEA bag. You know, one of those huge blue plastic ones? (Note: It's officially called FRAKTA which is not only an entertaining thing to say but also 99 cents!) So now that's what I do, and I LOVE it. It doesn't matter if the bag gets wet or sandy. It's giant, so you won't leave anything behind. And even though it's so big that you sort of have to dig to find what you want, it opens up so widely that it's not really a problem. Try it!
1. It's centrally located.
2. Hello you can walk to Starbucks!
3. It's actually a really great park.
Here's what we like:
- There is a very fun little pretend house that is always a hit.
- Great water features - both a small spray and play to run in and a pouring/pipe system near the sand
- Lots of shade
- A great play structure
- Lovely hills all around - perfect for running out the crazies!
- It's set pretty far from the road
- Surrounded by a nice paved trail for bikes and other wheels
- Water fountain
- A few garbage cans
- A fun little patch of bushes that makes little kids feel like explorers
- Sand. I can't stand the stuff but it sure keeps littles busy. Have we talked about the magic of baby powder? I can't remember. Anyway, put a shaker of baby powder in your bag. Shake it all over those sandy hands and feet, and the sand will wipe right off. Easy peasy.
- There's a basketball hoop, so you can rock a game of horse if you have big kids!
Here's what we don't so much like:
- No bathrooms
- Parking is sort of a pain - you have to cross a pretty busy street if there aren't any open spaces right in front of the park (there are crosswalks but no light to guarantee you the right away)
- I feel like the structure isn't super accessible for really small ones. There is a very steep bridge and an equally steep tunnel that can be slightly intimidating. That being said, we've been going to Oakmont since my biggest boy could walk, and he's never complained. :)
Thought of the day: You know that bag that you're always hauling to the park? The overflowing tote with the snacks and the sunscreen and the hats and the shovels and the wipes? Okay, well I've been using a canvas bag that was super handy because it had a zipper, which meant that when it tipped over, all the stuff wouldn't come tumbling out. However, it was so little! Way too small to fit all of the stuff that littles require for a long afternoon at the park. So a friend of mine brilliantly shared that she uses an IKEA bag. You know, one of those huge blue plastic ones? (Note: It's officially called FRAKTA which is not only an entertaining thing to say but also 99 cents!) So now that's what I do, and I LOVE it. It doesn't matter if the bag gets wet or sandy. It's giant, so you won't leave anything behind. And even though it's so big that you sort of have to dig to find what you want, it opens up so widely that it's not really a problem. Try it!
The Essentials:
Address: Oakmont Park, 2295 Oakmont Way, Eugene
Parking: Free street parking. Sometimes when it's super crowded you have to park just a bit down the street.
Cost: None
Food: Also none. Pack some up in your IKEA bag. ;)
Resting/Nursing spots: There is plenty of shade, and a few benches and picnic tables. Lots of good options!
Bathrooms: Nope
Time Frame: A few hours, no problem
Happy Adventuring!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Megan Defferding is the mom to two super fun boys who love to find great stuff to do all around Lane County! Check out her blog series, Happy Adventuring, weekly on GoMomGo.
Address: Oakmont Park, 2295 Oakmont Way, Eugene
Parking: Free street parking. Sometimes when it's super crowded you have to park just a bit down the street.
Cost: None
Food: Also none. Pack some up in your IKEA bag. ;)
Resting/Nursing spots: There is plenty of shade, and a few benches and picnic tables. Lots of good options!
Bathrooms: Nope
Time Frame: A few hours, no problem
Happy Adventuring!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Megan Defferding is the mom to two super fun boys who love to find great stuff to do all around Lane County! Check out her blog series, Happy Adventuring, weekly on GoMomGo.
Categories
All
Advent
Amy
At Home
Books
Camp
Christmas
Christy
Cup Of Tee
Downtown
Emily
Encouragement
Eugene
Fall Picks
Farms
Gift Guide
Giveaway
Halloween
Happy Adventuring
Healthy Kids Happy Homes
Hike
Hike Mom Hike
Holiday
Holiday Picks
Inside Play
Jenna
Junction City
Lane County
Library
Mama Makes
Martial Arts
Megan
Merry Reviews
Museum
Music
Outside
Parent Interviews
Parks
Portland
Pumpkin Patch
Recipes
RiverPlay
Road Trip
Shopping
Springfield
The Very Best
Thrifting
Water Feature
Yearly Event
RSS Feed
