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 […]
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 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
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
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!
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 inNews
Bend Author Becca Seago Announces her Second Book
Nighttime is when the real adventures begin
Have you ever wondered what your pets are doing after you go to sleep? In this new children’s book, “Doug & Gary Adventures: Midnight Snack Attack,” Doug and Gary prove that nighttime is when the real adventures begin. Doug and Gary are author, Becca Seago’s real cats, and this story is based on a very real […]
Posted inBend Nest Calendar
Bend Nest Calendar 2026
Mondays – Fridays Toddler Time Jump ACTIVITY – Perfect for preschoolers, early learners and active toddlers, Mountain Air Toddler Time encourages physical activity, social interaction and imaginative play in a fun and welcoming atmosphere. Watch your little ones thrive in a safe, clean and exciting indoor playground. For children 5 and under. 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Mountain Air | $14 mountainairbend.com/events/ […]
Posted inBend Nest Calendar
Summer Camps 2026
There’s something for everyone!
School’s out and it’s time for kids to connect and have fun in the sun! Check out our comprehensive guide to summer camps and activities— you’re sure to find plenty to keep the wild ones happily busy all break long. Pro Tip: Most camps fill quickly, so don’t wait to sign up. Abstract in Motion CampAges 6 and up abstract-in-motion.com541-797-8122 Apex […]
Posted inBest of the Nest
The Gear Fix
Best Children’s Activity Consignment Store
Interview with owner, Josh Sims You have a unique business that fills a niche here in Bend. Can you describe what you do? We are a service-based business that falls into two different categories: consignment and service & repair. The soul of the shop is to keep gear going while also providing the best items […]
Posted inBend Nest
All the Buzz
Beekeeping in the High Desert
Amazingly, Oregon is home to over 800 species of bees, a stunning figure that may surprise readers. Although most of those 800 are wild bees and not the ones we associate with honey production, all are native pollinators that play a huge role in keeping local ecosystems healthy by helping plants reproduce, which is crucial […]
Posted inCulture
Eyes on the Sky
Balloons Over Bend expands offerings for the whole family
If you’re looking for a fun, family event, you need only look to the sky! The annual Balloons Over Bend is quickly approaching, with the festivities kicking off Friday, July 24 and concluding Sunday, July 26. “I think Balloons Over Bend is a magical event,” commented Julia Gilley, Event Director for Lay It Out Events. […]
