November 16 Flannel & Frost FUNDRAISER – Mark your calendars as the Boys & Girls Club of Bend celebrates 30 years of community impact at their annual dinner and auction. This year is especially meaningful as they gather with 300 community champions to honor three decades of dedication to the club youth. They aim to […]
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 inEducation
Let’s Have Some Fun!
Tabletop gaming provides the perfect family outlet during the holidays
With ample family time on the horizon during the holidays, it’s time to stock up on a few new games. Not only do tabletop games bring the family together and foster connection, but they also strain the brain—in a good way! Did you know that they aid in decision-making skills, memory and strategic planning? Our […]
Posted inParenting
It Takes a Village
Supporting Children Through
Deep Loss
Recently, a young local family lost their father in a tragic mountain biking accident. I am writing this piece in honor of his family to provide resources for friends or families who are mourning. As parents, we often try to shield our children from the deeper sorrows in life. We do everything in our power […]
Posted inBookshelf
Two Little Red Mittens
Words by Kirin Hayashi | Pictures by Chiaki Okada
Two little red mittens. Left and right, they always went out as a pair.” What would happen if one of the little red mittens went missing? Could one red mitten go on an adventure? Make a snowman or tiny snowballs together with a new friend? Readers meet a variety of animals including a fox, rabbit, pigeon, […]
Posted inBookshelf
Winter Light
By Aaron Becker
An engaging board book that captures the light of winter. Discover crystals in a meadow or how the last sunlight of the day filters through bare branches. Will you see a kaleidoscope of colors? The background illustrations encourage discussions of winter scenes including a variety of snowflake shapes. “Share some time. Share some joy. Share […]
Posted inHoliday
Eco-Friendly Gift Wrapping and Decor
Creative and Sustainable
As a collective, we’ve become more conscious of our impact on the environment, and perhaps even more so around the holidays. During this season, it’s easy to rely on disposable items for convenience, but that can feel out of alignment with our values. We are connected to this Earth and all its life. Knowing that, […]
Posted inNews
Nest News: Fostering Young Minds & Local Talent
The Kid’s Entrepreneur Holiday Market
As the holiday season approaches, Bend is gearing up for a unique community event designed to showcase the creativity, ingenuity and entrepreneurial spirit of its youngest members. The Kid’s Entrepreneur Holiday Market, scheduled for Sunday, December 15 at the Elks Lodge, offers an environment where kids aged five to17 take charge of their own market […]
Posted inThings I've Learned
Things I’ve Learned: Julie Lyche
Executive Director of Family Access Network
Julie Lyche was born and raised in Eugene and has lived in Central Oregon for more than 30 years. She has served as the executive director of the Family Access Network for over 19 years. In addition to her work, Julie has volunteered in the local schools and on the basketball court, coaching her children […]
Posted inKid's Corner
Simply Beautiful
Easy pinecone crafts for the holidays
When the snow falls and the kids start complaining of boredom, try whipping out some engaging crafts to fuel their imaginations. Per usual, nature provides the best resources and inspiration for art, while also not breaking the bank when it comes to cost. For these simple, kid-friendly crafts, look no further than the humble pinecone. […]
Posted inOutdoors
A Hunt for the Perfect Tree
Central Oregon has no shortage of forests or trees. As we take those scenic drives, especially near the holiday season, it seems like every other tree is the perfect Christmas tree. If only we could cut one down to take home and decorate. Guess what? We can! There’s something magical about the natural aroma of […]
