Last year, when my family took a road trip to the Hood River Fruit Loop, we were hooked. In fact, after filling our bags with fresh apples, pears and other fresh goodies, the trip became an instant annual tradition. For those unfamiliar with the Hood River Fruit Loop, it is a scenic 35-mile route running […]
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 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 inCalendar
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 inBookshelf
BendNest Bookshelf Spring 2025
A Treasure of Measures By Mike Downs | Illustrated by Joy Hwang Ruiz How would you measure the time it takes to read a good book with your brother or sister? Or to splash in a puddle? Do you mark your inches of growth on the wall? Author Mike Downs takes an imaginative look at the […]
Posted inOutdoors
From Obsidian to Agate
Oregon adventures in rockhounding
After moving to Oregon, my family and I quickly became addicted to rockhounding. What is rockhounding, you may ask? People who search for and collect rocks or other minerals are considered rockhounds. Geologically, Oregon is one of the best places in the entire United States to search for and discover beautiful natural treasures like sunstone, […]
Posted inHealth
Fire, Water, Air, Earth
Embracing the Four Elements of the Spring Season
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 […]
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 […]