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Growing up in a world of adventure.

3 Important Tips for a Safe Bike Helmet Fitting

We are on our way to new adventures with Bergen.  This past Sunday was “Bicycle Sunday” on Lake Washington Boulevard in the Seward Park neighborhood of Seattle.  The road is closed to motorized vehicles for a little over a mile stretch from Mount Baker Beach to Seward Park.  Once in the park, cyclists (and walkers, skateboarders, etc.) can ride the 2.4 mile loop trail to add even more distance to the route.

The Cascade Bicycle Club Education Foundation generously offers helmets for all ages (12 months and up) for $15, and includes a free fitting.  We are not quite outfitted to ride our bikes with Bergen, but getting a helmet for him was our first step!

Tips for a Safe Helmet Fitting | WildTalesof.com

I’m no cycling expert, that’s Slaed’s department, but I did learn three important tips for a safe helmet fitting:

1. Chin Strap: The buckle should be between the chin and neck, and should be snug, but not too snug.  You should be able to fit two fingers under the chin strap.

2. Side Straps:  These straps should come just below the ears with the two straps forming a Y shape.

3. Back Strap: Very important for this strap not to be too loose or too tight.  It should be just snug enough not to fall off.

Helpful Links:

Next up, a baby bike seat!

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Three Falls are Better than One: Wallace Falls State Park, WA

As summer in Seattle comes to a close, we felt the need to take advantage of one of our final {Saturday Perfect Weather} days.  I had my eye on Wallace Falls State Park ever since I saw the photo of the river’s fluffy cascading waters on the Washington Trails Association website.

Located in Goldbar, Washington, off of Highway 2, about 28 mile east of Everett, the drive gave us the perfect traveling distance for Bergen’s morning nap.  We took back roads to make the drive even longer, and to cut out any potential traffic situations.

When we arrived at Wallace Falls, the park was busy, but not unbearable.  We consulted the map, and made a plan to hike the 5.5 mile out and back trail to see the lower, middle, and upper falls.  Since it worked out so well on our last hike, we strapped Bergen onto my back in the Ergo.  We’re thinking he might have some enthusiasm for nature as he looks at the hanging leaves on the trees like they are mobiles, and you have to fight for his attention when he’d rather watch a waterfall.

The trek up to the lower falls was fairly easy.  We followed along the river at points, and had a good view of the rolling water at one of the large bridges.

Things were kicked up a notch in getting to the middle falls.  Steep steps had our muscles working hard, but the trail is well worn, and easy to navigate.  We took in the view of middle falls at both lookouts, and contemplated whether or not to go all the way to upper falls.  Bergen seemed to be enjoying himself, and the bagel chips and licorice had us ready for one last push.

This climb was certainly difficult, but plenty of people were conquering the trail; kids even.  Getting to the upper falls is important.  The middle falls give you a good perspective of the falls as a whole and by far the best view, but at upper falls we saw the entire Skykomish River valley, Olympics in the distance,  and close-ups of the tempting rocky pools.  Some daredevil types ventured out on rocks, others sat for a while just to experience the cascading water and be there.  I wanted so badly to jump into the perfect blue-green water.

Info to Know:

  • 14503 Wallace Lake Road
    Goldbar, WA 98251
  • The cost (if you drive in) is $10 unless you have a Discover Pass ($30).
  • It’s a difficult hike.  Make sure everyone has sturdy shoes.  I wore Keen sandals and was fine, but would have been better off in hiking boots.
  • Taking baby along? You’ll need a sturdy carrier that is comfortable and safe for trekking up steep hills.  No strollers on this trail!
  • Bring plenty of water and snack so you have enough energy to make it to the upper falls.  Water is available at the trail head.
  • If you are not up for hiking all the way to upper falls, it’s still more than worth the trip to the park.  Plenty to explore on lower and middle (the best view anyway).
  • Before you leave, cut off from the trail, and take some time to explore the river.

Looking for more Seattle Area Kid Friendly Hikes?

Grab our Seattle Area Kid Friendly Hiking Guide!

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Hike Down Crystal Mountain: Sunshine and Daisies to Dust and Rocks

The Mount Rainier Gondola took us up to 6,872 feet of elevation, but we were determined to get back down to the base of Crystal Mountain Resort all on our own.  We decided to take the slow route, and hike.

Our journey began with an easy to navigate trail, and before we knew it, we were surrounded by wild lupines, daisies, and Indian Paintbrush.  We stopped often to take in the fields of purple, and admire the mountains in the distance.

We were happy to see Bergen content on my back in the Ergo, and I was happy to still be able to carry him this way!  While we walk quite a bit around town, our last true hike was in Arizona back in March, so we weren’t sure how he’d react to this 6-mile decent.

Magically, at about 30 minutes in, he decided to take a snooze.  I ended up pushing ahead of Slaed and his Mom, and was alone for most of the remainder of the hike.  We quietly continued on crossing streams, and circling alpine lakes.

It was right around here when the trail began to become questionable.  The lack of clear signage and markings left us (along with another group of hikers) wondering which path would be best to travel.  Even though we had a map, it was tricky to figure out, and we certainly didn’t want to take any chances of making this a longer hike with a one year old on our hands.  We decided to venture down a “road” instead of linking up with the Silver Creek Trail.  The road lead us into some rocky, dusty terrain.

Not exactly stellar hiking conditions, but fun to imagine with chairlifts filled with skiers, and the hills packed with snow in the winter.  No complaints on the view either.  I made my way down slipping and sliding, and just as the base of the resort came into view, Bergen started to put up a fuss.  I couldn’t blame him.  He was quite the trooper, and I was ready to be done too!  I relieved him from the Ergo, and we strolled the rest of the way in search of refreshment.

Info to Know:

  • We were attempting the “Crystal Mountain Trail” (#1161), which connects up with the “Silver Creek Trail” taking you back to the base.  Be sure to have a map on hand.  It would also be a good idea to talk the hike over with a guide at base to be sure of the turns!
  • Good, sturdy shoes are a must! Even if you didn’t take the road on the last part like we did, the trails are still rocky, and you are going downhill nearly the entire way.
  • 6 miles is strenuous.  Bring plenty of water, and a high energy snack.
  • Hat and sunscreen for sunny, warm, clear days.
  • The resort is located near Enumclaw, Washington
    • 33914 Crystal Mountain Blvd.
      Crystal Mountain, WA 98022
    • 1-888-754-6199 or 360-663-2265

    Now go travel the world with Sundays in my City!

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Summer Fun at Crystal Mountain Resort

A “just right” summer day, and a visit from Gramma was exactly the motivation we needed to go on a day trip to the Mount Rainier area via Crystal Mountain Resort.  The new gondola ride was calling our name, reminding me of the fun Slaed and I had riding a glass bottomed car on Whistler-Blackcomb’s Peak 2 Peak in British Columbia.  The 4 of us could enjoy the view without all the work of hiking up the mountain.

As we walked aboard, I was curious to see how Bergen would react to the ride.  I wondered if the heights would effect him.  Would he get excited? Would he even notice?

For the 10 minute ride, the view had him captivated.  As you can see, he loved pulling up on the bench or window, and looking down as we continued to climb higher and higher.  I on the other hand, became surprisingly nervous! Especially when about half way through, our car paused, and we hung motionless.  It turns out operators were just slowing down to help a car of elderly folks disembark.  I wasn’t prepared, but was put at ease when it was our turn to step off the gondola, and I witnessed one of the most beautiful views I’ve ever seen.

Though pricey, I think the experience is worth the cost, and it makes for a nice excursion with out-of-town guests.  We also splurged on lunch at the Summit House, the restaurant just off the gondola, which is actually Washington’s highest elevation restaurant (6,872 feet)!

Our Tips for a Good Mount Rainier Gondola Experience:

  • Even if you are just going up and down on the gondola, good, sturdy shoes are  a must.  The terrain can be unpredictable with steep ledges and rocky paths.
  • Be careful on the rocky ledges.  There are not any barriers, so the slightest misstep could have you in a scary situation.
  • Bring your camera and binoculars.  The binoculars will help you get an even closer view and you might even spot some wildlife.
  • Since we were with Slaed’s mom, we decided to make it really special and have lunch at the restaurant, but to save money, pack a simple picnic and enjoy one of the most breathtaking views in the world!

More info to know:

  • Cost for round trip gondola rides range from $0-$20 depending on age.
  • The resort is located near Enumclaw, Washington
    • 33914 Crystal Mountain Blvd.
      Crystal Mountain, WA 98022
    • 1-888-754-6199 or 360-663-2265
  • So much more summer fun to be had including: hiking, frisbee golf, horseback riding, biking, lawn games (like bean bag toss!), and of course, shopping.

Stay tuned for our hike down the mountain!

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

Need some travel inspiration? Check out the travel dreaming happening over at RWeThereYetMom?

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A Year of Babywearing: Benefits & Tips

It’s hard to believe we’ve been “wearing” Bergen for a year now.  I remember like it was yesterday putting him in the Moby Wrap for the first time when he was just over a week old, walking around the house, and then walking to Breastfeeding 911 class thankfully just two blocks from our house.  I was so afraid he would fall out, so I cupped my hands around him like I was holding him anyway.  Now in what feels like 5 seconds flat, he’s buckled into the front or back of the Ergo carrier, and we are off on another adventure.

We rely on our carriers, and in no way shape or form could we continue our active lifestyle without them.  There are some places where strollers just can’t go, and places where strollers get in the way.  We also can’t just carry Bergen around all day in our arms, and he’d get into more trouble than you can imagine if left to his own devices!

Our Benefits of Carriers & Babywearing

  • When Bergen is safe and sound in a carrier, our hands are free to do other things.  These can be fun things like shopping, eating, or even wine tasting, but it’s also handy for chores like laundry, dishes, and cleaning.
  • Bergen feels secure, and thus more calm because he is close to one of his parents.  This was especially important when he was a newborn, and when he was first teething.

  • When Bergen was a newborn, (and even now that he’s older) he could nap on the go in his carrier.  Many babies will nap longer in the carrier than they would in their crib, bassinet, in your arms, etc.
  • Carriers are less bulky than strollers.  They travel well, and allow us to navigate places like festivals, farmers markets, and sporting events simply.

  • “Strangers” are less likely to touch a newborn baby when they are being worn by mom or dad as opposed to the openness of a stroller, buggy, or carriage.
  • Bergen is at our level and right there with us exploring the world.  I feel like I’m more likely to talk and interact with him on walks, hikes, and shopping trips.  And especially when he’s facing out in the bjorn with his Dad, he is able to socialize with everyone around him; something he absolutely  loves to do.

Our Tips for Babywearing

  • Start early! I can’t emphasize this enough.  From my experience with Bergen (starting at about 1 week old), and friends with little ones, the sooner you start, the more routine and “normal” being in a carrier will be for baby and parent.  Start with just wearing baby around the house, then try a short walk close to home.  Once you are comfortable, you can work up to grander adventures.
  • Practice often in short spurts.  Just because baby doesn’t like it after 15 minutes, doesn’t mean never do it again.  Try it again later for another 15 minutes.
  • Talk to other moms and dads.  Watch other moms and dads in action.  Ask questions.  For the first 5-6 months, I only carried Bergen in the front carry position with the ergo.  I was curious about carrying him on my back so I just asked other moms and dads about it when I saw them out and about.
  • Watch videos.  Do a you-tube search, and you’ll find all kinds of helpful tutorials for every type of carrier and position.
  • Enlist the help of others at first for guidance on positioning, and making sure the baby is safe.  As I was learning to carry Bergen on my back, I needed Slaed to put him into place while I concentrated on buckling.  Now with some practice, I’m able to hoist him on my back by myself from a chair or the back of the car.
  • Visit a maternity/baby store that sells several different carriers.  Have a store employee help you try a variety of carriers out to see what works best for you.  I found it helpful to try the carrier with a doll first, before getting Bergen involved.
  • Think like the little engine that could…and remember the old saying, “if at first you don’t succeed, try, try again.”  You will improve, and it will get easier, I promise!

Babywearer? Give us more of  your benefits and tips in the comment section!

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Take Me Out to the Perfect Ball Game {with a baby}

Bergen is a regular now at Safeco Field as he just went to his 4th Mariner baseball game this past week (plus Spring Training in Peoria, Arizona).  This particular game blew all of his other baseball experiences out of the water though.  To begin, Felix Hernandez, our star, Cy Young award winner was pitching.  Slaed was able to take the afternoon off from work allowing us all to go to the matinee game with his Mom who is visiting from Arizona.

As we were sitting in our seats, taking turns feeding Bergen finger food with him bopping around from lap to lap, the ballpark cameraman strolled down to capture fans enjoying themselves.  He didn’t really care about us.  However, everyone around us cared a lot about little Bergen.  Bergen Fans started calling out to the guy telling him to video the baby, over and over (and over) again! They got pretty loud.  This grabbed his attention, so he finally turned around, and shot his camera right at Bergen.  Thrilled out of their minds, everyone around us clapped and cheered as they saw Bergen bouncing around on the Jumbo Tron screen centrally located in Safeco Field.

Moments later, I got a message from a friend asking if we were at the game.  She thought she just saw Bergen up on the big screen! I let her know that it was indeed our little Bergen.  When someone else recognizes your son, it just makes it that more real and exciting, doesn’t it?

Meanwhile, Felix was pitching quite a game, and the Mariners scored one run.  The innings were just ticking by one after another.  Before I knew it we were singing “Take me out to the ball game” and stretching our legs.  Talk of a perfect game began to come up.  We watched Felix throw strike after strike, and batter after batter swing and miss his tricky pitches.

To accommodate a restless Bergen, we walked around the park grabbing food and drinks along the way.  Soon it was the 9th inning, and we found ourselves standing behind “King’s Court”, Felix’s special cheering section.  Fans in this section wear yellow shirts, and flash big “K” (for strikeout) signs.

It was from there where we saw him pitch his last pitch of the game.  With 2 strikes up, he thought for sure the batter would swing.  He threw a strike, and the batter watched the ball drop into the glove of the Mariner’s catcher.  A Perfect Game.

We also had a perfect outing with Bergen! Here are some tips to ensure smooth sailing at the ballgame with a baby:

  • Tag team carriers: Taking turns between Mom and Dad, Bergen can bop around and socialize in the bjorn, and then hangout in the ergo (back or front).  Sometimes he even takes a nap in the ergo though now that he’s 1, the awake stretches are a lot longer.  Sadly, he has nearly outgrown the bjorn.
  • Food: We are sure to bring plenty of options for food throughout the game. Avocados, string cheese, pouches, bananas all travel well. Plenty of puffs, cheerios, and “mum mums” are also on hand.  “Feeding time” allows us to hang out in our seats for a while.
  • Expectations and flexibility: Be flexible, and expect to move around the park.  You won’t be able to sit in your seats for the entire game.  Move around.  Find standing spots, and explore.  Check out the pitchers warming-up in the bullpen.  Go see new areas, and view the game from different vantage points.
  • Follow the weather: Sun hats and sunscreen for the warm, sunny day.  Jackets and warm socks for the cool night.  At Safeco Field, it always seems 10 degrees cooler than “outside”, so we always keep this in mind.
  • Consider the time.  For obvious reasons, we prefer the day game.  Bergen can take his regular morning nap, and then be back home in time for an afternoon snooze.  We can make a 6:00 pm start time work, but but 7pm is pushing it these days.
  • Open areas.  Most of time there are sections that are not completely full with spectators.  These areas are great for giving Bergen space to cruise around seats without bothering too many people.
  • Special to Seattle’s Safeco Field:
    • A nursing room is located in section 128 near Guest Services.
    • For your little one’s first game, go to Guest Services to register.  Kids get a special certificate with their name on it and a poster.
    • Meet and take a photo with the Moose in his home, the Moose Den (main level, near center field)
    • Kids 3 years and under/48 inches and under can romp and play in the Seattle Children’s Hospital Playfield (not far from the Moose Den)
    • Safeco Field/Mariner’s Website

    Now go travel the world through Sundays in my City!

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

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