Bend Nest

Bend Nest is a place to discuss, consider and laugh about all that parenting brings. A quarterly magazine produced by some of the finest writers, editors and photographers in Central Oregon, Bend Nest is smart and informed.
Posted inCulture

Local Artists Opening Their Studios to the Public 

The third-annual Bend Artists’ Studio Tour is set for Sept. 26-27 at various spots around town
by Dallas Finn Calvert

Central Oregonians will have a chance to peek behind the veil of artistic process on Saturday, Sept. 26 and Sunday, Sept. 27 at the third annual Bend Artists’ Studio Tour. It’s a free, family-friendly, self-guided event, running from 11am-4pm both days, put on by SageBrushers Art Society.  At each studio on the tour, the artists […]

Posted inCulture

Thriving Children

The Miracle of Music
by Shannon Dean

Most parents have witnessed a fussy baby calmed by a lullaby, a toddler who can’t resist bouncing to a beat or a preschooler inventing songs with hilarious lyrics. But beyond the joy and entertainment, there’s something remarkable happening inside those little brains. Music isn’t just fun. It’s foundational to how children learn, think, and grow. […]

Posted inKid's Corner

Let’s Get Cozy

DIY Fleece Blanket
by Nicole Blume

As the leaves change and the chilly wind begins to blow, now is the perfect time to cozy up to a fall craft that the whole family can make and enjoy together. And what better project than a warm fleece blanket? This sewing-free fleece tie blanket is super kid-friendly and easy to make! All you […]

Posted inThings I've Learned

Things I’ve Learned, with Alissa Guthrie

Owner & Director  of Mudpies and Lullabies Preschool Owner of Mountain Air Trampoline Park & Bouncing Off the Wall
by Alissa Guthrie

Alissa Guthrie is an entrepreneur and early childhood educator. She is the owner and director of Mudpies and Lullabies Preschool, the owner of Mountain Air Trampoline Park and Bouncing Off the Wall inflatable rentals with her partner, Eliot Collins. As a mother of five, she brings the same commitment to her family as she does […]

Posted inBend Nest Calendar

Bend Nest Fall Calendar 2026

Events this Fall
by Bend Nest Staff

Sundays Sisters Farmers Market FOOD – Head to Sisters to shop for fresh, micro-local produce, pantry staples and artisanal goods. Live music most weeks. Every Sunday through October.10 a.m.–2 p.m. Fir Street Park, Sisters | Free sistersfarmersmarket.com  Sunday – FridayParent-Child SwimMOVEMENT – This swim session is a quieter time in the shallow indoor pool for parents and children six and younger to explore the water and […]

Posted inBend Nest

Editor’s Note, Fall 2026

Happy fall, everyone!
Avatar photo by Angela Switzer

It’s easy to forget how much kids change and grow over the course of a single year. Clothes no longer fit, teeth have erupted, and backpacks that were once cool are suddenly not. What happened over the summer while you weren’t paying attention? The silver lining is that, behind the scenes, they are secretly becoming […]

Posted inExpert Q&A

Expert Q&A with Scott Rowles, MA, PE/T

Educational Therapist & Founder Potentia Academics 
by Scott Rowles, MA, PE/T

Q: My tween son is easily distracted in the classroom and seems to be struggling. He is bright but unfortunately, is developing a reputation as a troublemaker. What can I do to better support him? A: Great question! This is a common scenario that can happen at multiple grade levels. Adolescent development and increasing rigor […]

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