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October 2, 2012

Seattle’s Volunteer Park Dahlia Garden

Here in Seattle we really can’t believe it’s fall. I keep waiting for things to change (and the rains to come), but here we are again with sunny skies, and 70 degree temperatures. I’m honestly worried. Am I overreacting? Nevertheless, we are certainly enjoying ourselves.

Our parks are still hanging on to summer as well. Just a few days ago on one of our afternoon walks, we visited Volunteer Park in the Capitol Hill neighborhood (just East of Downtown). We love Volunteer Park for it’s beautiful conservatory, water tower giving you unique views of the city, and wide open space. New to me this summer is Volunteer Park’s Dahlia Garden. The Dahlia Garden has been around for many years though, and given the fact that dahlias just happen to be my most favorite flower, I can’t believe I’ve missed the garden all this time! Where have I been? Why hadn’t anyone told me about it?

So many colors, shapes, sizes, and styles are represented in this modest garden located across from the conservatory and in front of the rhododendrons. I could have stayed for hours inspecting each and everyone. Lucky for Slaed and Bergen, who were not so fascinated, there is a playground hidden among the trees just a short distance away. So when they were bored of looking at flowers, they escaped to slide, swing, and climb. Norman and I were left alone to admire.

Info to Know

The Volunteer Park Dahlia Garden is located in Volunteer Park (near the conservatory), and maintained by the Puget Sound Dahlia Association.
- 1247 15th Ave East Seattle, WA 98112
- Hours: 6 am-10pm
The dahlias are planted every May, and dug up the following October. Peak viewing is in the month of August, though the season is July-September.
A visit to Volunteer Park makes a great outing. Some of the other features include, the Seattle Asian Art Museum (SAAM), the water tower, wading pool, playground, and conservatory.

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October 1, 2012

Downtown Seattle with a Toddler: 10 Great Destinations

When in Downtown Seattle whether you are a visitor of the city or a resident looking to enjoy some time with your family, there is plenty to do to keep everyone happy, beyond just the playgrounds and children’s museums (though those have their place too). Without leaving the downtown core, Seattle has destinations that older babies and toddlers will find fascinating while keeping parents engaged and entertained too!

1. Pike Place Market

Best visited during off peak times so that wandering toddlers are not misplaced, you and your little one will love exploring our year-round public market. Watch the fish fly at the Pike Place Fish Market, visit Rachel the Pig, listen to talented and entertaining musicians found throughout the area, and make sure to grab some of the world famous Macaroni and Cheese at Beechers. We also never leave the market without at least a half dozen of delicious mini-doughnuts from the Daily Dozen Doughnut Company.

2. The Seattle Aquarium

While it might seem like a splurge, the Seattle Aquarium located on Seattle’s Waterfront has a lot to offer both kids and parents, and if you truly are traveling with a toddler (from 0-3 years), they’ll get in for free. Bergen loves watching animals, and fish and water really seem to captivate him.

3. The Monorail

Hop on the Monorail at Westlake Center, and for $2.25 you can enjoy a ride to the only other stop: Seattle Center in the “Lower Queen Anne” neighborhood. Along the way you’ll see beautiful views of the city skyline from thirty feet above the street level. Riding the monorail is fun, and it’s a cheaper, faster alternative to taking a taxi or walking.

4. Seattle Center

Once you arrive via the monorail, there are so many choices at Seattle Center. For a free adventure, visit the International Fountain, and watch the choreographed water spraying performance. In hot (or even mildly warm) weather, kids and adults flock here to get a little wild and crazy, and cool off. At this point, Bergen just loves the surprise element of not knowing when each “super shooter” will spray. For hungry visitors, check out the newly renovated “Center House” for it’s many local and casual dining options. Just some of the other destinations include: The Space Needle, Pacific Science Center, Experience Music Project, Seattle Children’s Museum, and the brand new Chihuly Garden and Glass.

5. Seattle’s Central Library

Libraries aren’t just for checking-out books. Rebuilt and opened in 2004, Downtown Seattle’s Central Library is an architectural masterpiece with11 floors, a “Book Spiral”, and amazing views of the Puget Sound from the top floor reading room. Once you have the chance to explore the design and unique elements of the building, take your little one to the children’s section to enjoy the play area, use the computers, and most importantly, cozy up with a good book. Room for strollers and family restrooms are also available.

6. The Lightrail

For this next public transportation experience, you’ll head underground to ride our recently established Link Lightrail System. If you’re using a stroller to tote your tot around, you’ll find it easy to roll off and on the trains. Currently, the lightrail goes as far North as Westlake Center in Downtown Seattle and as far South as the Seatac Airport.

7. Pioneer Square

Ride the lightrail just a few stops to Pioneer Square, the birthplace of Seattle. Visit the Smith Tower, which was the tallest building West of the Mississippi in it’s completion in 1914, run around Occidental Park and climb on the firefighters memorial. Then have cup of coffee or a picnic at the Waterfall Garden Park (between S 2nd Avenue Extended & Main St) and watch your tot become mesmerized while you relax. A visit to Magic Mouse Toys on 1st Avenue will also be a lot of fun for all.

8. The Olympic Sculpture Park

A perfect place for little ones to burn off some energy while parents explore over twenty beautiful and interesting sculptures. The park is located at the Northwest edge of Downtown Seattle, and boasts gorgeous views of Elliott Bay and of course, the Olympic Mountains.

9. The South Lake Union Streetcar

One last public mode of transportation takes you (appropriately) on the street level. Ride the car from the Westlake Hub to Lake Union Park. Kids under 5 ride free, and they’ll love watching the world go by as they move along in the streetcar without their carseat.

10. South Lake Union

Explore the Center for Wooden Boats, Museum of History and Industry, and celebrate Seattle’s maritime history. There’s plenty of green space for kids to spread their wings, fun trails, a splash fountain, and a tempting footbridge. Go on a scavenger hunt for a pirate ship, dragon boat, seaplane, kayak, and any other lake related item you can think of! Then hop back on the streetcar to get back downtown.

Downtown Seattle has much more to offer than a Top 10 list can provide. What would you add? Please leave a comment below!

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September 27, 2012

Fort Worden State Park, WA in Fast Forward

You must have places you wish to return to for another visit. Everyone, even the busiest of travelers has to have at least a few spots. Maybe the site was so spectacular that it’s more than worth a second (or third…) look. Maybe you want to show it off to friend or family member. Or maybe, in our case recently, you just didn’t get enough time there in the first place.

By the time we reached Fort Worden State Park in Port Townsend, Washington, we’d already had quite an eventful morning. We enjoyed a big breakfast at Sweet Laurette, checked out of our hotel, cruised the shops and galleries along Water Street, and even had a peek into the Maritime Center. The Fort was unfortunately our last stop before we headed home to Seattle, and we were working around Bergen’s nap schedule.

After checking in at the Visitors Center for a map and a lay of the land, we raced over to the closest battery. With Bergen in the stroller and not yet walking, there wasn’t much for him to discover safely, so I took Norman through some agility exercises via the stairs and various elements of the battery. In the meantime, Slaed and Bergen located a trail that would take us down toward the beach and lighthouse. I can’t wait to take Bergen back here when he’s a little older. What a perfect place for little guys and girls to run around and explore with their family!

We would hook up with the trail, but not without taking a look inside this spooky bunker.

This is where we really picked up the pace, and kicked it into high gear. We wanted to actually get to the shore, see the Point Wilson Lighthouse, and make our way back to the car. There was little time to linger, and take in the views as Norman and I literally chased after Slaed and Bergen.

Can you see Mount Baker in the distance?

Once off the trail, we caught a glimpse of the many camp sites available, and the Battery Kinzie. Fort Worden was one of three forts that protected the Puget Sound area, specifically the Bremerton Naval Yard, and the cities of Everett, Seattle and Tacoma from 1900 to the early 1950s. Interestingly enough, not one of the three forts (Fort Casey on Whidbey Island & Fort Flagler in Nordland are the other two) ever had to fire a hostile shot.

Battery Kinzie

Needless to say, there was no time for close-up exploration of the lighthouse, which as it turns out is okay as this lighthouse is not open to the public. We breezed past it, and caught up with the main road taking us back towards the car.

Point Wilson Lighthouse

Fort Worden has so much more to offer than what we were able to see during our quick visit. Miles of hiking trails are available, some ADA, making them a good choice for kids in strollers. The beaches are known for being kid-friendly, there are kayaks available to rent, and several museums to learn about the history of Fort Worden.

Info to Know:

Fort Worden State Parkis located in Port Townsend, Washington on the Northeast side of the Olympic Peninsula.
- 200 Battery Way
  
  Port Townsend, Washington 98368
  
  (360) 344-4400
Several lodging choices are available within the park ,which include campgrounds, officer’s housing, dormitories, and even a castle!
Check ahead of time to find out the hours of the park’s various establishments.
Cost: $10 for a day pass OR annual Discover Pass ($30)

Come along with us on all our adventures by “liking” our facebook page and following us on twitter!

Go visit RWeThereYetMom? and Delicious Baby for more travel fun!

September 26, 2012

Wild Sightings: Washington Park Arboretum

There we were on one of our usual walks in the Washington Park Arboretum catching up on the days activities. Bergen babbling away in his stroller. Norman wishing he was off his leash chasing the squirrels scurrying about in the grass and trees.

All of a sudden, we were stopped in our tracks.

We listened for several minutes trying to locate where the sound was coming from.

Once we were able to hone in on one particular tree, we inspected each and every branch and limb until finally…I spotted the creature who was talking to us!

Beautiful Barred Owl

The owl stayed very still, high up in the tree allowing us to watch in awe, and even allowed us to point out our discovery to others passing by on their walk. I’ve seen an owl once before, but this was Slaed’s first “owl in the wild” spotting. Not such a usual day after all.

Ever spot an owl in it’s natural habitat? Or any share-worthy animal in it’s natural habitat?

Come along with us on all of our adventures by “liking” our facebook page and following us on twitter!

September 24, 2012

Travel Tips: Saving Money on the Hotel

Deetjen’s Big Sur Inn

When we choose to go the hotel route while traveling, the cost is always daunting to me. For as much time as we actually stay in the room, it’s unbelievable how much we can end up spending. It’s necessary though, and I along with my super-saver husband have found a few ways to save.

1. Ask. Don’t be afraid to simply ask the hotel directly for a lower rate. Pick up the phone, and inquire with a hotel representative if there are any ways in which you can reduce your bill at the end of your stay. On our recent visit to Port Townsend, I did just that, and they kindly dropped the pet fee that was added, allowing Norman (the dog) to stay with us for free.

2. Loyalty Programs. When you sign on to the rewards club of your particular hotel chain of choice, you are giving yourself the opportunity to earn points. Those points can then be transferred for payment once you’ve accrued enough. It’s more than just points though. Through our Hilton Honors program, we’ve received coupons for free extra nights, and other nice benefits like newspapers, treats & drinks. It also helps when one family member travels a lot for business. Then those points can really add up fast.

Baby’s First Hotel Room

3. Don’t Give Up. If the rate seems expensive, go ahead and book anyway, but check back regularly. Often the rates go down. If that happens, re-book, then cancel your previous reservation. Continue checking up until your actual vacation or travel date. We use this same trick to save on rental cars.

4. Entertainment Book. If you don’t already have one, what are you waiting for? If you travel at all or just leave the house on a regular basis, the cost is worth it, and you’ll find that you make back the money you paid for the book in savings before you know it. “The Book”, as well call it in our household, includes coupons and discounts for many hotel chains.

5. Maybe You’re Special. You might be in a special category or group that receives discounts, and you don’t even know it! Or maybe you know it, but you haven’t taken advantage yet. AAA, AARP, and Union memberships all can save you money on your hotel stay.

Goofing off at the Palace Hotel in Port Townsend, WA

6. Don’t Stay at a Hotel. Sometimes the best way to save money on the hotel is not to stay at one at all! Individuals all over the world are renting out their home or 2nd home, etc. for travelers and vacationers. 2 sites we use frequently to find rentals are:

Sunset: Cannery Hotel in Astoria, Oregon

7. Stay Away. While not for everyone as it’s not exactly family friendly and it might be a buzz-kill, you’ll often save money if you consider staying at a hotel further away from your ultimate destination. We used this trick on our Disneyland trip a few years ago. We didn’t mind driving a little bit to get to the park though with Bergen around we might think twice about that now.

8. Book early & Don’t Change Your Mind. A dangerous option, but many hotel chains will discount your rate if you choose to book with their no cancellation policy. It seems to only be available if you book far in advance.

This post is part of Travel Tips Tuesday on WalkingOn Travels and Suitcases and Sippy Cups. For tons more travel tips, check out their sites!

What are your hotel saving tips? Please share!

Come along with us on all of our adventures by “liking” our facebook page and following us on twitter!

September 24, 2012

Baby Adventure Gear

We’ve had a wonderfully adventurous year thanks to some high-quality gear. Here are a few of the items that have made travel and adventure easier, enhanced our experiences, and made new things possible!

1. The Go Crib by Guava Family

The “Go-crib” is extremely portable, light-weight, and easy to assemble. The crib is equipped with a manual pump, and along with the thin fold-up mattress, it is stored in it’s own backpack. It’s been essential for sleep at all of our usual travel destinations, and really comes in handy for camping trips.

*While the Go Crib is no longer available, the company (Guava Family) has designed a new product called the Lotus Travel Crib. Learn more about the Lotus Everywhere Travel Crib in our set-up post!

2. Yepp Mini Front Child Seat

A recent addition to our adventure gear line-up, the Yepp Mini allows us to take Bergen on bike rides! He has a blast riding around with his Dad, and it really opens up the possibilities for outings around the city. According to Yepp, babies can start using the seat when they are 9-months old and sitting up independently. It accommodates kids up to 33 pounds or about 3 years old.

3. Baby Jogger Summit XC

We purchased the Baby Jogger Summit XC before Bergen was born, and really only expected to use it on trails, and of course for jogging. Boy did we underestimate how difficult it is to navigate the steep hills of our neighborhood, and our worn out city sidewalks. When we tried to take Bergen out for a walk in the “city mini” (also by Baby Jogger), we turned right back around, and grabbed the Summit. We’re thankful for the handbrake, the sunshade that provides plenty of cover, it’s durability, option for fixed or unfixed front wheel, easy fold-up, and it’s beautiful black color.

4. Rugged Idea Waterproof Blanket

This blanket doesn’t just come in handy, it’s a necessity in Seattle. Bergen is kept warm, cozy, and dry, and we feel great supporting a local company! After being out and about for a walk in the rain, it’s amazing how fast this blanket dries. Each corner of the blanket has 2 Velcro straps for easy stroller attachment.

5. Ergobaby Performance Carrier

Our ergo goes everywhere with us from the airport, to the zoo, to the mall, or to a state park for hike. We chose the performance line because it breathes well, dries quickly, and is made for those who are a bit more active. I started using the carrier with the infant insert when Bergen was about 2 weeks old. Now you’ll most often find him in the back carry position enjoying the view.

What helps you and your family get out and about for adventures?

Come along with us on all of our adventures by “liking” our facebook page and following us on twitter!

Seattle’s Volunteer Park Dahlia Garden

Downtown Seattle with a Toddler: 10 Great Destinations

Fort Worden State Park, WA in Fast Forward

Wild Sightings: Washington Park Arboretum

Travel Tips: Saving Money on the Hotel

Baby Adventure Gear

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