Being Savvy: Your guide to activities and fun things to do with your preschoolers and kids in Seattle, WA

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Events

There's Only So Many Weekends Left.

August 06, 2009

On the last day of school, my kindergartner was sent home with more paperwork and materials that I had EVER SEEN IN MY LIFE.

Okay, that may have been a bit dramatic.

But still! Somehow, the most important piece of paper of the lot (the 1st grade supply list) I had somehow misplaced. Thank goodness I ran into a mom of my son's classmate in the supermarket last week and she mercifully emailed me a scanned copy.

Why is this so important now?

Because the school year will be here before you know it. So now is the time to enjoy every last drop of summer. Every morsel of fun. Every festival and event there is.

And this is a great weekend to experience just that.

Enjoy Music in the Park at Bothell Landing this Friday evening. This week features an 80s tribute band! Sweet!

The Rainer Valley Chamber of Commerce is hosting their annual Rainer Valley Heritage Festival and Parade. The parade starts at 11:00am and everybody loves a parade!

It's fair season! Celebrate at the Pierce County Fair in Graham. I don't even need to describe all the preschooler-friendly activities available - IT'S A FAIR. You get the general idea.

All weekend (Fri-Sun), enjoy Auburn Good 'Ol Days - where you can "celebrate like the did in the good 'ol days!" Translation: BBQ, entertainment, and kid's fun. Sounds good to me.

There's another opportunity to catch Recess Monkey at the Bellevue Library of the King County Library System. They'll be there Saturday at 11:00 am.  Read more...

Weekend Plans for When You're Not in Water or Melting.

July 30, 2009

All I have to say about this week is:

AGH.

MEH.

GRR.

It is just TOO hot. So hot, in fact, that my preschooler suffered from heat exhaustion this past Monday. It was pretty scary for a few moments, but now we know more about how to keep us all cool. Which basically revolves around drinking LOTS of water and limiting sun exposure.

While the weekend should bring us slightly lower temps - but still in the high 80s and low 90s - you'll still need something to do to fill in the times between dips in your kiddie pool. So pack plenty water and have fun!

What's summer without fresh blueberries? Come celebrate the local harvest as Bryant Blueberry Farm and Nursery hosts their Blueberry Festival on Saturday. They'll have pony rides, BBQ goodies, and, of course, plenty of blueberries to pick and enjoy.

It's Pioneer Days in Lake City! The fun will include a street fair, family activities and a parade! Rumor has it - there may also be a visit from the Seafair Pirates. Start August off right with a visit to this festival on Saturday.

You have a couple of opportunities to see Recess Monkey this weekend as they play two show around town. They'll be at Alphabet Soup Books in Wallingford on at 11am and at 3rd Place Books at 3pm on Saturday. The three members of the band used to be classroom teachers - so they know how to handle a crowd of kids with music and fun.

And remember, whatever you do, HYDRATE.  Read more...

It's Going to be Hot, Hot, HOT.

July 23, 2009

With weekend temperatures heading towards the mid-90s, you may want to do nothing more than lounging in your backyard in the kiddie pool.

Resist that urge! Here's some fun ideas to enjoy the weekend ahead.

Those in the south end may enjoy Renton River Days. Sponsored by Ikea, this festival has plenty of activities just for kids - from a Lego Playzone to face painting. And, of course there will be inflatables! 

The Tour de Terrace in Mountlake Terrace takes place Friday, Saturday and Sunday. There is a parade, musical entertainment and plenty to entertain the kids - big and small.

Got an artist in the house? Then ArtRageous in Auburn is your place to be this Saturday. This event boasts over 30 hands-on art activities, plus musical performances and artists in action.

Food more your thing? Enjoy seafood? Then your family will be in HEAVEN at the 35th Annual Ballard SeafoodFest this Saturday and Sunday. And it's not just about the food, kids have their own set of activities to enjoy as well!  Read more...

Weekend Plan Overload.

July 17, 2009

It's going to be hard to figure out just how to cram everything into this weekend.

So. Many. Option. For. Fun.

What will you choose?

Those foodies among us will be at the Bite of Seattle. With free admission and the new Just a Bite! promotion (right portions at the right price) you just can't go wrong. This is a very popular event - so come early and bring your patience. And your appetite.

Want to learn all about energy conservation? Then the 6th annual Shoreline SolarFest is for you. There will be tons of exhibitors (including energy providers and local environmentally friendly businesses) and a special spot for kids to play. I took my two kids last year and we had a great time!

A great event for the cultured family is the Wedgewood Art Festival. The perfect opportunity for strolling and admiring local artists.

Saturday is also Family Day at the Experience Music Project - meaning, FREE admission!

Enjoy!  Read more...

What You Sould Be Doing This Weekend.

July 10, 2009

I'm just going to say it; even though your probably don't want to hear it.

I actually enjoyed the cloudy and cooler weather this week.

(I KNOW! SACRILEGE.)

It was just nice for a few days to not have to water the plants twice a day, be able to wear a sweater to work, and not have the kids have trouble falling asleep because of the heat.

But the sun is back! And since summer is in full swing, you'll have plenty to occupy your family with this weekend.

Seafair kicks off tomorrow! It's the 60th Anniversary of the classic Seattle summer festival. The Seafair Pirates will greet you to open the festival this Saturday at 11:30 am at Alki Beach. Be sure to check out the Seafair website to see all the fun activities they have in store over the next few weeks.

Mercer Island is hosting it's annual Summer Celebration at Luther Burbank Park and Mercerdale Park. My guess? You'll be spending most of your time at the Children's Fun Zone. But no worries - there's food and entertainment as well.

Those in or near West Seattle have easy access to the West Seattle Summerfest. There will be live entertainment, vendors, food, and more.

Over on the Eastside, head to Redmond's Derby Days, featuring a bicycle race, live music, kids' parade, and carnival.

Now, if I can just decide how many events I can fit in this weekend...  Read more...

Bring on the Weekend; Bring on the Fun!

May 28, 2009

If this weather continues - we just may start expecting this! Here's some ideas - both indoors and outdoors - to keep you busy this weekend and into next week.

On Friday, Saturday and Sunday head over to Edmonds for the Edmonds Rotary Waterfront Festival. They have an extensive schedule of children's events, with inflatables, duck races and music all weekend. Be sure to pack your sunscreen!

Pike Place Market is hosting their Pike Place Market Street Festival on Saturday and Sunday. They'll have plenty of food, music, and, of course, a KIDS ZONE!

Want to pick up from farm fresh foods this weekend? Saturday and Sunday, South 47 Farm welcomes you to their Fields of Green Farm Celebration. Who doesn't like wagon rides, live music, farm animals, food and your pick of fresh veggies and fruits? You may learn a little, too.

This past weekend marked the opening of the Jim Henson's Fantastic World exhibit at the Experience Music Project. It features more than 100 pieces of drawings, cartoons and storyboards that illustrate Henson’s talent as a storyteller and visionary. Who else could have brought us Big Bird and Kermit the Frog? And don't forget -EMP hosts Family Days each month with free or reduced admission prices.  Read more...

Come On, Let the Sunshine In.

April 17, 2009

So many things to do this weekend in Seattle; so little time! My family is BOOKED UP this weekend: dance class, Little League, a family barbecue and two (count 'em TWO) children's birthday parties.

WHEW.

Hopefully your schedule has a little more wiggle room in it, so your family can enjoy all the awesome opportunities available this weekend.

(HINT. The sun in the forecast won't hurt either.

Hit up the Seattle Center to enjoy the Cherry Blossom and Japanese Cultural Festival, from April 17-19. The event commemorates Japan’s gift of 1,000 blossoming cherry trees to Seattle in 1976 and features tea demonstrations, Japanese food and much more.

Do you "Do The Puyallup" every fall? Did you know they have a spring fair, too? Head south to gobble up some elephant ears and see some animals at the Puyallup Spring Fair.

On Saturday, YMCA's in the greater Seattle area are hosting a Healthy Kids Day. The event will provide information nutrition and education, as well as fun activities, including games and art.

Join the Earth Day celebration at the Climate Day for Kids at the Olympic Sculpture Park on Saturday. They'll learn about climate change and how their families can help reduce their carbon footprint. And since it's the art museum, there will also be opportunities to create art using recycled materials.


So, go on, get out there this weekend!  Read more...

Easter Plans?

April 09, 2009

The celebration of Easter is coming up on Sunday and hopefully by that time the sun will return for the weekend to make out egg hunts possible (well, at least outside!). Angie showed us the many ways to make your Easter green (the playdoh recipe? I'm totally trying that out this weekend) and now we'll look at the best Easter themed activities for the weekend.

Friday
While it's not exactly Spring-like, Castle Ice Arena in Renton is offering a Easter Skate from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm. The Easter Bunny will even be there to share eggs and - what else = Easter candy. Don't forget your basket!

Saturday
In Everett, Bethany Christian Assembly's Easter celebration offers giant inflatables, live entertainment, and thousands of eggs to hunt for from 10:00 am to noon.

The Shoreline Fire Department hosts their annual Easter Eggs Hunt at the picturesque Richmond Beach Saltwater Park. It's a great hunt for kids of all ages as they have age-defined hunting areas.

Edmonds Lutheran Church is hosting their annual East Egg Hunt from 9:00 am to 11:00 am. The event is put together with other Lutheran parishes and is open to the entire community.

The City of Tukwila is hosting their Easter Egg Scramble and Hunt featuring breakfast and a mad dash for candy and treats. Rumor has it, the hunt features one special prize-winning egg! The event begins at 9:00 am, with the hunt starting promptly at 10:00 am.

The City of Redmond goes all out with their Eggstravaganza! There will be face painting, music, crafts, a Mr. Bunny appearance, and a pancake breakfast (hosted by the Lions). Breakfast begins at 8:00 am, with the hunt commencing at 10:00 am.

Feel like hunting eggs at the beach? Then head down to the Des Moines Beach Park anytime between 9:00 am and 11:00 am to search and pose for photos in the Bunny Barn.

Check with you local parks and recreation department for other local events in your community.  Read more...

No April Fools Here!

April 02, 2009

It's sort of tradition to have cruddy weather during Spring Break in Seattle; and this week has been no exception. My son and I traveled to Idaho to visit family and were greeted by five fresh inches of snow once we arrived. On Wednesday, we ventured back over the snowy Cascade Mountains and were greeted by snow falling in the greater Seattle area.

Ah, April Fool's Day. But, no, REALLY, it happened.

Welcome to Spring in Seattle.

The weather may not be cooperating, but there is still plenty to do now that Spring has sprung (at least on the calendar).

Have a love of alpacas? Head over to the Puyallup Fair Grounds for ALPACAPALOOZA! This free event will feature live alpacas in competitions, demonstrations and more. All day Saturday and Sunday.

It's April - which means it's time for the annual Skagit Valley Tulip Festival. Other than all the gorgeous tulips to view, there are a lot of family friendly events and activities to enjoy. 

Have a Tuesday music break at the Mercer Island Public Library for Songfest! Your preschooler can dance and sing away their morning energy with performer Patrick Doherty.

And, don't forget, Whirligig at Seattle Center runs through April 12!  Read more...

Spring Break!

March 26, 2009

Next week is Spring Break for the Seattle School District and many of the other local school districts (including the one my kindergartner attends). My son and I will be hitting the road to visit family in Idaho (and, yes, I have Angie's recent post on traveling with kids bookmarked so I can use all her tips!).

Since this is our family's first experience of Spring Break as parents of school-aged children combined with the fact that my daughter's preschool doesn't take a week off, our expectations (especially for the kids) are especially low. But yours don't have to be! If you are not headed out of town to warmer weather (I'm jealous), there are still plenty of activities around town to keep your crew entertained.

Visit the Pacific Science Center to enjoy their annual Spring Fling from April 1-5. Included in the price of admission are visits from special animal guests, nature activities and even pony rides!

Want to keep learning? Then head to the Bellevue Arts Museum for FREE on Friday as part of their First Free Friday promotion.

Spring Break in Seattle means its Whirligig time! Just what is Whirligig? Well, it's a "wacky world of child size action"! The Center House is transformed with bouncy houses, slides and much more. There are also roaming clowns, face painting, and free entertainment. It runs for two weeks from March 27 through April 12. Want to miss the crowds? Plan on attending on a Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday.

Have a great Spring Break and stay safe!  Read more...

The Sun is Out, but the Snow May Be On Its Way.

March 05, 2009

Snow or no snow...spring is just around the corner - I can FEEL it. Here's some great ways to get through another week while waiting for spring to arrive.

This Friday is Free First Friday Concert night at Music Works Northwest (the non-profit community music school). This month will feature Linda Bailey and Klaus Liebetanz performing family-friendly flute duets. Admission is free.

Want something to do together as a family? The Bellevue Family YMCA is hosting a Family Fun Night on Friday from 6:00 - 8:00 pm - open to the public ($5 for non members). You and your children can enjoy craft projects, gymactivities and swimming.

Go celebrate Dr. Suess' 105th Birthday on Saturday at Third Place Books in Lake Forest Park from pm 9:00 - 11:00 am. There will be entertainment, crafts, stories, and, OF COURSE, green eggs and ham!

The City of Kent is hosting Kent Kids' Arts Day on Saturday at the Kent Commons. Artists will guide your little Picasso through a variety of hands-on art experiences. You can also take a brake from all the art and listen to live entertainment all day.

Not ready to give winter up yet? Hold on by enjoying Preschool Skate (Monday through Friday, 11:00am - 3:00 pm) at Castle Ice Arena - free is a great price!  Read more...

The Superbowl Is Not Entirely Preschooler Friendly.

January 29, 2009

With the BIG SUPER BOWL WEEKEND ahead, you may be looking for other options than constant coverage of the pre-game, game, and, of course, post-game. I know I am. The Wing Luke Asian Museum is celebrating the Year of the Ox with 50% off regular museum admission prices. They also have a special exhibit on Native Hawaiians in the Pacific Northwest to enjoy. (Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.)  Read more...

Concert Review: Juggletunes with Linda Severt.

January 27, 2009

I don't just write this Seattle Savvy blog: I LIVE IT, too. Other than bringing the best of the fun activities and insights to you, the parents of Puget Sound preschoolers, I can figure out what will fill the days of OUR life. Because goodness knows there are lots of hours that fill those days. And naps only take up so many of them. So last Saturday, my kids and I headed to the Shoreline  Read more...

Weekend Fun: George, Movies, Puppets and MORE.

January 22, 2009

Since the inauguration is over, we may go back to our regularly scheduled programming. Lucky for us, that means a weekend of fun, family events. What will make your short-list? Juggletunes by Linda Severt comes to the Shoreline Library. It is just what it sounds like - circus arts (juggle) and music (tunes). Rumor has it there will be puppets, too! (Saturday only.) Northwest Film Forum  Read more...

Preparing for Inauguration Day.

January 19, 2009

No matter how you voted, Tuesday, January 20, 2009, is an historic day in our county as the first African American President is inaugurated into office. While most of the action, perse , is taking place in our nation's capital, Washington, DC, there are local events that can make you ALMOST feel like you are there. The Seattle Central Library is hosting a viewing of the inauguration in  Read more...

What to do on MLK, Jr Day in Seattle.

January 16, 2009

With the off from school and (hopefully) work, you may be looking for something to do on Monday for the Martin Luther King, Jr Holiday. While a day off is a lovely time to spend with our family, let's not forget the reason behind it. The Martin Luther King, Jr Day is only the third federal holiday that commemorates a singular person. We celebrate it each year on the third Monday of January  Read more...

Flat Stanley is coming!

January 14, 2009

Ever heard of Flat Stanley ? I hadn't until recently, but now I'm hooked. Flat Stanley is the main character in a series of books authored by Jeff Brown. The first was published in 1964, and the books tell the story of Stanley's adventures after becoming "flat". Just how he becomes flat is a story unto itself. Stanley and his younger brother, Arthur, receive  Read more...

It's raining, BUT...

January 08, 2009

...it's supposed to stop on Friday. I truly hope that wherever you are; you are warm and safe. Looking for things to do for your preschooler during our relentless rain storm? Here's an old Seattle Savvy post on how to have fun when the rain won't stop . Looking for things to do this weekend? We've got your plans right here. It's the very last weekend to experience the Adventures of Mr.  Read more...

Need plans for New Year's Eve??

December 29, 2008

New Year's Eve, by design, is not very family friendly. Who would want to keep their kids up until midnight? But, sometimes we're still itching to get out and celebrate. Lucky for us there are still lots of fun, family activities to experience. Bellevue's KidsQuest Children's Museum is hosting New Year's at Noon . They'll be ringing in the new year by counting down a full twelve hours  Read more...

Quick! Go see these light displays before it snows again!

December 23, 2008

Had enough of the snow? I SURE HAVE. I have lived in the Pacific Northwest my entire life and have never experienced anything like this in terms of the amount of snow and the length of the storm. Incredible, really. Hopefully the roads around you are improving (if your situation is anything like mine, the worst part of the drive is just getting from my house, down the driveway and into  Read more...

Another holiday themed weekend ahead!

December 11, 2008

Did you hear it may SNOW this weekend? That's, like, REAL weather, people. So, if you will be able to make it out of the house, you should have some activties lined up, right? As for us, Saturday is breakfast with Santa in the morning and then visiting Bellevue's Magic Season that evening. Here's the best of the best of the weekend ahead. Need to visit Santa? The Mountlake Terrace High  Read more...

Bellevue's Magic Season.

December 08, 2008

This year marks the 12th year that the Bellevue Downtown Association has sponsored Bellevue's Magic Season. Held traditionally beginning the day after Thanksgiving into the new year, the Magic Season will run until January 11, 2009, giving you plenty of time to head to the Eastside to experience all the magic the festival has to offer. What I'm looking forward to the most? Each evening at  Read more...

Holiday fun for the weekend ahead.

December 05, 2008

The holidays are in full swing...do you even NEED more activities to fill your weekend? If you do - here's the funnest stuff out there. As part of their Little Maestro Series , the Bellevue Philharmonic Orchestra presents a Holiday Hooray with Lisa & Linda . Be prepared to sing and dance along! (Saturday only.) Mountlake Terrace Elementary School is hosting a Holiday Bazaar . You can get  Read more...

A preschooler's guide to Seattle Center's Winterfest.

December 03, 2008

We're just a few days into Seattle Center's annual Winterfest, so there is still so much to see and do. I've pulled together all the best activities and must-see sites of the festival - perfect for tons of family fun, whether is be for an hour or the whole day! Most activities are free or low cost, so be sure to put this on your December must-do list. Everyday at Winterfest  Read more...

A patriotic way to spend your Saturday.

November 07, 2008

The turn into fall and the upcoming Veteran's holiday leaves little preschooler events available this weekend. But, there is a great Veteran's Day related event for your and your family to enjoy on Saturday. On Saturday, you can enjoy one of the largest Veteran's Day parades west of the Mississippi River. Each year, close to 200 parade entries, 20 bands  Read more...

Seattle by the letters.

November 04, 2008

In November, The Savvy Source's theme is "Because a Great Book..." and today in the local city blogs we're all looking at our city "by the letters". Here's what you need to know, see and do in the Seattle are "by the letters". A = Enjoy the sights and sounds of Alki Beach in West Seattle. B = Just a ferry ride away is the beautiful Bainbridge Island . C = Seattle Center , home to many fun  Read more...

November is here!

October 30, 2008

Halloween is LITERALLY (and finally!) just around the corner. And since it lands on a Friday this year, you have a TON of events available to celebrate on Friday evening . I'm guess that it is due to the holiday and the last weekend of the month that this weekend is slow on events. Like S-L-O-W. You've been warned. Local kids' music favorite, Recess Monkey  Read more...

Where to celebrate Halloween in Seattle (preschooler approved).

October 24, 2008

I never imagined there would be SO many family events for young children in Seattle during the Halloween season (it's not just a day, apparently). In Savvy Seattle, we have covered the perfect pumpkin gathering places , Halloween events and festivals (those not occurring on October 31), and even a gaggle of fall craft ideas . And we're not done yet. While trick-or-tricking through  Read more...

What to do this weekend that has NOTHING to do with Halloween.

October 23, 2008

SHHHH! Today we are NOT TALKING ABOUT HALLOWEEN. This weekend guide consists of no Halloween related events and activities. Okay, I LIED, there is ONE Halloween related activity. But it should be super fun so I made an exception. This weekend in home to this month's edition of the ever popular Baby Loves Disco . You can pre-order tickets or purchase at the door, but whatever you do: put your  Read more...

The top fun family Halloween events.

October 21, 2008

Each Tuesday is list day at the Savvy Source, and today is no exception. Each Savvy city blog examines the same theme each Tueday: the top five ways to localize Father's Day or the top five places to see fish locally , for example. And this week all Savvy city blogs are covering the top Halloween events around town and for the VERY FIRST TIME EVER I am making an exception and including SIX  Read more...

This weekend guide practically wrote itself.

October 16, 2008

I was under the delusional belief that as the summer moved into fall and the weather cooled and the rain returned; my Thursday "weekend round-up" posts would become increasingly difficult to write. This has not turned out to be the case. AT ALL. Each week I discover more and more interesting events, festivals and workshops. And the roster of events for the upcoming weekend just further  Read more...

Seattle's farm fest harvest guide.

October 10, 2008

Fall in Seattle (for those of you not totally depressed by the passing of summer) is a beautiful season, full of glorious fall colors, tastes and smells. And experiencing the farms of the Puget Sound Region is a perfect way to also see the animals and foods alike go along with it. These farms are one of the reasons life is great for Seattle families. You can live in the city with all its  Read more...

The weekend is coming, whether you like it or not.

September 18, 2008

The outstanding warm September weather continues; though they tell us rain should appear by the time Monday dawns. Take part of the weekend (I know it will take me a while) to find where you have hidden yourpreschooler's raincoat in preparation for next week's school and activity adventures. Because, remember, real northwesterners DON'T carry an umbrella. Well, once you locate the raincoat,  Read more...

Warning! Another fantastic weekend ahead!

September 11, 2008

I'm happy to report that my family has settled into our new kindergarten and preschool routine. Both a plus and a minus of kindergarten is that my son comes home EXHAUSTED; not only is he not napping anymore, but the class schedule is much more grueling (if that can be said about the lesson plan for a five year old) than preschool was. So our night routine is basically: come home, make and  Read more...

Just when you thought it was safe to start your weekend.

September 04, 2008

I thought FOR SURE that the first weekend after the start of the school year would have preschool-age appropriate events few and far between. Boy, was I wrong. Very, very wrong. This weekend is teaming with fun, family events for our community to enjoy. So get out there - the weather should be gorgeous. The Puyallup Fair is the largest single attraction held annually in the state  Read more...

Five ways to prepare (you and) your preschooler for their first day.

September 02, 2008

As of today, Tuesday, September 2 nd , I am proud to say that I am the parent of a preschooler AND a kindergartner. Hold me. My son, after two great years of preschool, is making the transition to a full-fledged public school student at our local elementary school. This is a time of change for my three year old daughter as well, as after (longingly) watching her older brother  Read more...

History Lesson: Labor Day (plus Seattle Labor Day BONUS!).

September 01, 2008

The first Monday of September brings us the traditional end-of-the summer holiday, Labor Day. And while a long weekend, family barbecues and last minute school shopping (even for preschoolers!) is usually what we think about when looking forward to this holiday, do you know the history of Labor Day? The day originated in 1882 out of the New York City labor movement; the Central Labor Union  Read more...

Things you must do with your children in Seattle before they grow up: Volume 6.

August 28, 2008

Remember the Mt. Saint Helens eruption? Enjoy Washington grown apples? Then this volume of "Things to do with your preschooler before they grow up" is for you. Get ready for numbers 26-30. 26. Witness living history at Mt. Saint Helens . I witnessed the 1980 eruption siting on the roof of my uncle's house in Portland. The visitor's center at Mt. Saint Helens still sends shivers up my  Read more...

Seattle weekend plans? CHECK.

August 21, 2008

We're heading out for one last hurrah this weekend - over to Idaho to visit family - before school starts and my son enters kindergarten (!!!). It will just be the kids and me in the car for about six hours (ONE WAY), so if you're hanging around Seattle this weekend, you're definitely getting the better end of the deal. Anyone want to meet for lunch in Othello at the Burger King around  Read more...

Top 5 places to see fish in Seattle.

August 19, 2008

Our water journey continues during the month of August here at Seattle Savvy Source. This month, we've examined the best beaches in all of (greater) Seattle and the best places to learn to swim . Now we'll venture further out: to the oceans and the seas. Where, oh, where might we see the creatures that fill our ocean and our many lakes? Here's the top five water-life experiences for you and  Read more...

What you'll be up to this weekend while I'm out camping.

August 14, 2008

The moment has arrived - I'll be heading out for my first EVER overnight camping trip (TWO nights) this weekend. So, I won't be around this weekend to take advantage of all the great events happening this weekend in Seattle. The good news? YOU'LL be here. And there's plenty to keep you and your family busy. Come celebrate the City of Shoreline's birthday at Celebrate Shoreline  Read more...

What will you be doing this weekend? Here's your guide!

August 07, 2008

The summer weekends keep rolling ahead - one of the great things about living in the great Pacific Northwest is that summer (while late to start) really keeps going deep into August and September. And, lucky for us, that means many more weekends filled with fun summer activities. Here's your weekend guide. Picky eaters? Head to the Taste of Edmonds , where there is sure to be something to  Read more...

History Lesson: The Northwest Railway Museum.

August 04, 2008

Most preschoolers like trains. But there are always the ones, and I'm sure you either know one or have one in your household, who has a slight obsession with them. Then the Northwest Railway Museum in Snoqualmie may be just the thing to send them over the edge. The museum itself was founded in 1959 as the Puget Sound Railway Historical Association and operated under that name until 1999, when  Read more...

Gearing up for another summer weekend.

August 01, 2008

No worries, friends, Thursday's rain was just a minor blip on our screen as we look forward to the weekend. (Okay, okay, there's a small chance of rain on Friday, but I'll believe it when I see it.) I even took my own advice and let the kids splash away in the afternoon rain puddles. Got plans for the weekend? Here are some events to help fill your calendar. Judkins Park in Seattle will be  Read more...

Things you must do with your children in Seattle before they grow up: Vol. 4.

July 31, 2008

What adventure is next on our journey to complete the 100 things you must do with your children before they grow up? From the ocean to elephant ears, it's all included in numbers 16-20. 16. Wiggle your toes (and the rest of your body!) in the Pacific Ocean. I don't care where you do it whether it's at Ocean Shores or Orcas Island , this is MUST. 17. Welcome the troops home at  Read more...

Before you check out "The Show", you may want to start in the minors.

July 29, 2008

While the Mariners may be " The Show " around Seattle, alot of good, inexpensive family adventure is to be had experiencing all the fun that the minor leagues have to offer. Whether it's the Mariners' Triple A affiliate the Tacoma Rainers or the Single A affiliate the Everett Aquasoxs, a day at the ballpark is just a short drive away. One of the great things about watching minor  Read more...

Trade your preschooler's kazoo for a summer concert.

July 22, 2008

My husband recently returned from a business trip that caused him to be away from the house for an entire week He brought them kazoos . KAZOOS. As much as I like to support my children's interest in music; I've had to set some rules regarding the use of the kazoos. The two main rules are nokazooing while someone in the house is sleeping (mostly for my benefit) and no kazooing in the car  Read more...

How to make friends and influence people (not really) in Seattle.

July 21, 2008

Meeting new mommy-friends is always hard; at least for me. I'm not sure if it's my fear of being judged as a mom or my general discomfort with meeting new people, or both? I'm clueless. What I DO know is that I would to do more of it. The idea for this post came to me while I was reading a fantastic post by another Washington mom and blogger Amanda, at her site, Mandajuice . She moved to  Read more...

The Review: Babytime Expo.

July 18, 2008

Remember that one time, a few weeks ago, when I mentioned the BabyTime Expo in my weekend guide? (Yah, me neither. I had to go back and look it up.) Anyway, I was lucky enough to attend the event for a few hours on Sunday with my 5-year-old son, Bubba. (I was planning on taking my 3-year-old daughter, Sis, but she was on a napping strike, and I didn't think it would be fair to expose all  Read more...

Are you ready for the weekend?

July 11, 2008

You've got to admit it, this week has been SPECTACULAR. The weather has been my version of perfect, mid 70s and not-too-hot evenings. Bliss. And it seems to be no end in sight. This weekend would be perfect for you to head out and enjoy these preschooler-approved events: For those of you with Nordic background (or just an interest), your family can celebrate Viking Days at the Heritage  Read more...

Five ways to make the most of your three day 4th of July weekend.

July 03, 2008

In Seattle, it's practically tradition that it rains on the 4th of July. So, it's sort of unprecedented that it will be somewhat sunny for the holiday for two, count it TWO, years in a row. Since you won't be stuck in the house with the kids all weekend, here's the best of Seattle area activities to get you moving. Enjoy Seattle at the WaMu Family Fourth . You'll find family activities  Read more...

Events preview for this weekend: it's going to be hot, hot, HOT.

June 26, 2008

Even though the first of July is next Tuesday (!!), only in just this past week has it really felt like summer in Seattle. The beautiful summer weather should come to a crescendo this Saturday, with temperatures expected to be in the mid-to-high eighties. So if you're not headed out camping (like my husband and son are) or out to the beach; it would be a great time to slather on some  Read more...

Too big, too little.

June 11, 2008

I have a question for all you Savvy parents out there. Even with as close in age as my children are (24 months apart), we find that there are some activities that are more suited to my 5-year-old than my 3-year-old and vice-versa. As much as we like to do things together "as a family" (as the two of them always say), I would like to be able to take my older child, Bubba, to some  Read more...

Story time at the library: why you should let someone else read to your child.

May 21, 2008

One of the best and easiest ways to help your children get excited about language and learning is to read to them. Additionally, research has shown that reading aloud to your children is the single most important thing we can do to ensure future academic success. By reading books together, we are bonding with our children, expanding their vocabulary, helping them develop listening skills  Read more...

More of Our Favorite Activities and Things to Do in seattle

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Creatures & Critters:
Our Urban Jungle

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Do, Re, Mi! Places to Hear, Sing & Play a Tune

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Artistic Endeavors:
Our Favorite Art Venues

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Room to Run:
Run, Jump & Wiggle Outdoors

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Rainy & Quiet Days:
Cozy & Crazy Indoor Fun

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A Sense of History:
Our City's Stories

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Splash, Spray, Play! Local Spots to Get Wet

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The Most Fun in Life Is Free!

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The Best of... Our Top Can't-Live-Without Spots

The Voice of Being Savvy seattle:
Angie McDonald, Bethany Dunn

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