Cheers to our Community
During the holidays, it’s always fun to wander downtown or meander through the Old Mill District with the family while browsing the local shops and ducking in for a warm drink. Bend has some wonderful, locally owned places that are perfect for finding those unique gifts. Shopping locally really is the way to go. Not…
Festive Holiday Candles
Did you know that once, during the Victorian era, people would place candles directly on their Christmas trees? Affixed with a bit of melted wax and some metal pins, the candles were glued to the branches and then set alight to create a spectacular glow. Unsurprisingly, the risk of a house fire was quite high,…
A Little Something for Everyone
This year, holiday magic abounds with a plethora of fantastical events. Grab your calendar and get ready to fill it with shows and activities, as the Central Oregon community has simply outdone itself with next-level opportunities for celebration—your crew won’t want to be left out! The following are the top picks for must-see activities and…
You Can’t Catch Me!
Mmmm… the melding of ginger, molasses and brown sugar instantly evokes warm holiday sensations and childhood memories. This season, schedule some kitchen time with the little ones to share this tradition of baking and decorating gingerbread boys and girls! Kids will love the rich flavor and simple shape: let the imagination run wild with decorating…
Bookshelf: Holiday 2022
You may remember the Busy Birds from local author, Kristin Riggle’s first children’s book, “Little Bird Explores Bend!” This holiday season, look for an all-new adventure with Busy Birds and their forest friends, who celebrate a very special Christmas in Bend! From a moonlight adventure to trimming the Christmas tree, these busy pals find joy…
Editor’s Note
It’s important to remember that only one year ago, faces were covered, and families were discouraged from gathering. Who knew that sharing time together was such a privilege? Thankfully, that time is behind us, and this year, we are reuniting and hugging. I’m excited to be headed to the coast with extended family soon for…
Health Expert Q&A with Lindsey Overstreet
Q: One of my teenage daughters has developed a few nervous habits. She is always biting her nails and seems very rushed when speaking. I have tried to talk to her about this, but she denies everything and tells me I’m hovering. Should I be concerned? A: When parents see a change in their child’s…
A Walk in Someone Else’s Shoes
As the snow drifts outside the frosty window, what could be more appealing than curling up by the fire (or space heater) in cozy holiday pajamas to lose yourself in a good book? Reading is the perfect, low-cost activity that both young and old can enjoy together. Broadening a child’s worldview and exposing them…
Thrive Central Oregon
Winter. For many Bend families, it’s the most magical time of the year, filled with the exhilaration of hitting the slopes and holiday shopping, family gatherings and warm, extravagant meals together. However, for some families, it means something very different. It means searching for a place to escape the extreme cold, scavenging for food and…
New Year, New You!
As the new year approaches, many local parents are making resolutions to get more physically active and improve their health. As difficult as it can be to schedule self-care time and childcare, indoor gyms can be a real lifesaver when it comes to meeting those new goals. Not all gyms are created equal, though. At…
Thermal Magic
During the summer, the invigorating cold waters of the Deschutes River and the Cascade Lakes are a welcome respite from the heat. When the winter weather hits, though, it’s the exact opposite. We search for ways to warm our bodies—wood stoves, layers of clothing and hot chocolate. Not all of us own or have easy…
