Since ancient times, philosophers and artists have honored the four natural elements – earth, air, fire and water – as essential to life. Across the globe, cultures acknowledge that these four elements not only sustain physical life but also carry many religious and spiritual meanings as well. As spring welcomes the newness of life, now […]
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
Dynamic Youth Theater Brings Teens, Audiences Together
Ponderosa Players presents Ride the Cyclone in Bend
Local theater group, the Ponderosa Players, brings the musical, Ride the Cyclone (High School Edition) to life February 19-22 at Open Space Event Studios, in Bend. Known for their pre-professional youth theater productions, the Ponderosa Players are poised to deliver this cult hit musical, which blends humor and emotion, while adding in some amazing technical […]
Posted inTrending
Here’s to our Neighbor
Tips for an easy, enjoyable spring break in Washington
Like many local families, ours takes full advantage of the school vacations. Christmas and spring break, summer vacation or even a long weekend – it’s time to travel! Although our beautiful state of Oregon has no shortage of captivating places to visit, sometimes it’s fun to venture out a little further from home. Fortunately, close […]
Posted inFamily Time
Edible Easter Fun
Kids will love these blooming cakes!
If you’re looking for a spring baking activity or special dessert for Easter, a flowerpot cake is the perfect way to mix creativity, fun and a little bit of magic. Although there are numerous variations, this recipe provides an easy step-by-step guide. Gather the kids and dig in! Ingredients and Supplies Cake Your favorite chocolate […]
Posted inEducation
The Beauty of Children in Nature
Community rallies to save Skyliners Lodge
A special part of Bend’s history, Skyliners Lodge, also known locally as Skyliner Lodge, has been a treasured space where families have gathered throughout the years to explore nature, ski and celebrate. Sadly, this summer, it is set to close due to some looming major repairs and subsequent funding issues. Located along Tumalo Creek in the […]
Posted inParenting
Welcoming New Baby
What to do and say to address sibling rivalry
Few things are more important to parents than having their kids get along well together. Nevertheless, it can be difficult for kids, especially toddlers, to accept new additions to the family. “Where they were once the center of your world, now they’re forced to share the spotlight,” says Sophie Bell of babycenter.com, a popular parenting […]
Posted inBend Nest Calendar
BendNest Calendar Spring 2025
Events for the kids this spring!
Tuesdays Kids Yoga Teacher Training YOGA – Join Namaspa’s lead children’s yoga trainer, Deven Sisler, to become a certified children’s yoga teacher with Yoga Alliance. She has developed a comprehensive 95-hour teacher training online that is perfect for parents or educators who want to share the benefits of yoga and mindfulness with children. Namaspa Yoga […]
Posted inNews
Bend Nest News
Central Oregon Locavore Nourishes from Birth with Breast Milk, Infant Formula and Feeding Supplies Local nonprofit, Central Oregon Locavore, is making “local” accessible for all ages, even the newest members of the community. Centrally located in Bend, Locavore is now the distribution site for donor breast milk. Working in collaboration with the Northwest Mothers Milk […]
Posted inThings I've Learned
Meet Deschutes County Commissioner Phil Chang
Phil Chang is a two-term Deschutes County Commissioner, 21-year resident of Bend and most importantly, the proud father of Bend Senior High student, Max.
You have a long history of public service. Where does your inspiration come from? My grandparents were public servants and elected officials within the Nationalist government in China during the 1920s, 30s and 40s. Having fled the mainland during the communist takeover, my parents appreciated being welcomed to the United States, essentially as war refugees. […]
Posted inExpert Q&A
Health Expert Q&A
With so many children’s apps and video content available, it’s hard to know the limits. Are there guidelines for how much screentime my elementary-aged child should have every day?While there aren’t any federal guidelines for screentime, The American Academy of Pediatrics does recommend that elementary-aged children have no more than two hours of screentime per […]
