Well Here We Are

Category: parenting

Surviving and Thriving: How to Stay Calm During the Holiday Hustle

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On November 7, 2023

In holiday, parenting, Sustainable Living, Uncategorized

The holiday season is undoubtedly a magical time filled with warmth, joy, and the spirit of togetherness. However, it can also be a whirlwind of commitments, shopping, decorating, and meal preparations that can leave us feeling overwhelmed and stressed. In the midst of the holiday frenzy, it’s essential to find moments of calm, serenity and ways to simplify the season. Let’s explore some ways to maintain your peace and well-being during the bustling holiday season.

1. Prioritize Self-Care

Amid the hustle and bustle, don’t forget to put yourself at the top of your to-do list. Self-care is not selfish; it’s essential for maintaining your inner balance. Take a few moments each day to do something that fills your cup. Whether it’s getting up 20 minutes before your family to enjoy a quiet cup of coffee or tea, a few pages of your favorite book, a facemask, or a brisk walk in the fresh air, these moments of self-care can be a lifeline during busy days.

2. Set Realistic Expectations

One of the biggest sources of holiday stress is setting unrealistic expectations for ourselves (I’m looking at you magic maker moms!). We all want to create the perfect holiday experience, but sometimes striving for perfection can lead to burnout. Instead, focus on creating meaningful moments and cherish the imperfect beauty of the holiday season. It’s okay if everything isn’t picture-perfect, as you’re are undoubtedly creating wonderful memories with loved ones.

3. Practice Mindfulness

Mindfulness, the practice of staying in the present moment without judgment, can be a remarkable tool during the holiday season. When you find yourself overwhelmed, take a deep breath. I love to use the Headspace app, and they even have curated meditations for the holidays. Enjoy the little details: the twinkling lights, the scent of freshly baked cookies, or the laughter of family and friends. Mindfulness can help you navigate through the chaos with grace.

4. Simplify Your Celebrations

We often feel compelled to do it all during the holidays, from hosting extravagant gatherings, going gung ho with the perfect decor, saying yes to every holiday activity, to buying countless gifts. However, simplifying your celebrations can lead to a more peaceful and enjoyable season. Consider reducing the number of events on your calendar, having a potluck-style dinner to share the cooking responsibilities, or opting for meaningful and thoughtful gifts rather than extravagant ones. Grocery shopping just one more to do? Consider doing a delivery from Misfits Market. Misfits Market is an online grocery delivery service that offers discounted imperfect and surplus produce and grocery items, reducing food waste and providing sustainable, affordable food options to customers. Get $10 off with this link. Thrive Market is another delivery option with some awesome sustainable and clean items. Get 40% off your first order with this link. A simplified approach can allow you to really enjoy the special moments.

5. Delegate and Share Responsibilities

The holidays are a time for coming together, so don’t be afraid to delegate and share responsibilities. Whether it’s involving family members in holiday preparations or dividing tasks among friends hosting the festivities, shared responsibilities can ease the burden on just one person and foster a sense of togetherness. *REPEAT AFTER ME* you don’t have to do it all alone!

6. Embrace Gratitude

The holidays are a perfect opportunity to embrace gratitude. Each day, take a moment to reflect on what you’re thankful for. It could be a warm home, the love of family and friends, good health, or even just that warm cup of coffee you had in the morning. Gratitude can shift your focus from stress to appreciation and bring a sense of peace and contentment.

7. Create Boundaries

In the age of digital connectivity, it’s easy to become overwhelmed by the constant flow of holiday emails, social media updates, and messages. Don’t let the influencers on social media make you feel like you are not doing enough. Create boundaries by setting designated times for checking your messages and disconnecting from technology when you need a break. This will allow you to savor quiet moments without the constant buzz of notifications.

8. Lean on Your Support System

Lean on your support system, whether it’s your partner, family, or close friends. Share your feelings and concerns with them, and don’t hesitate to ask for help when needed. Remember, you’re not alone, and your loved ones are there to provide emotional support and lend a helping hand.

9. Stay Active

Regular physical activity can be a great stress-reliever during the holiday season. Whether it’s a brisk walk (even if its a rage walk ha), a yoga session, or a quick workout, staying active can help release endorphins, boost your mood, and provide a sense of balance.

10. Give Back

One of the most beautiful aspects of the holiday season is the spirit of giving. Consider volunteering your time to help those in need or donating to a charitable cause. The act of giving can be incredibly fulfilling and can remind you of the true meaning of the season.

11. Keep Traditions Alive

Traditions can be a source of comfort and joy during the holidays. Whether it’s baking cookies, decorating the tree, or certain games, uphold your cherished traditions that bring happiness to your heart. These rituals can provide a sense of stability and connection.

12. Go Simple with Decor

This year, you may try to opt for a simpler approach. Minimalist decor can create a sense of tranquility. Choose a few key pieces that hold personal meaning or evoke the holiday spirit, and let them shine. It will not only reduce the stress of decorating (and putting away!) but also create a peaceful atmosphere.

13. Declutter Your Space

Before you dive into decorating for the holidays, consider decluttering your space. Clearing out unnecessary items can help create a sense of calm and spaciousness.

14. Practice Forgiveness

The holiday season can sometimes bring family tensions to the surface. Practice forgiveness and empathy. Understand that everyone has their struggles and moments of imperfection. Embrace the holiday spirit of compassion and forgiveness, and focus on the love that binds you together.

A quick side note:

Dealing with Grief During the Holidays:
During the holiday season, it’s crucial to recognize that it can be a tender time for those carrying the weight of grief. If you’ve lost loved ones, remember it’s perfectly okay to embrace your feelings and allow yourself the space to grieve. You might find comfort in creating meaningful rituals to honor and remember those you’re missing this holiday season. Additionally, consider reaching out to a support network or a compassionate grief counselor who can offer guidance and understanding during this emotionally charged time.

In the midst of the whirlwind that the holiday season can sometimes become, I hope you can remember these few tips. In the end, the true meaning of the holidays lies in the love, connection, and moments of joy that we create and share with our loved ones. So, I hope you can embrace the season with an calm heart and allow yourself to enjoy every precious moment it brings.

Haunted by Waste This Halloween? Tips for a Sustainable Spookfest

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On September 20, 2023

In parenting, Sustainable Living, Uncategorized

Halloween, the time of year when the spookiness takes center stage, is just around the corner! It’s that magical season where creativity runs wild, and the ghosts and ghouls come out to play. But while we’re all for some hair-raising fun, it’s important to remember that Halloween can sometimes turn into a real eco-nightmare. Think mountains of disposable costumes and enough plastic decorations to rival a haunted landfill! Don’t worry, though; I’ve got a bag of tricks (and treats) to help you have a more eco-friendly Halloween without spooking Mother Earth.

Scary yet Sustainable Costumes

One of the most iconic aspects of Halloween is dressing up in costumes, but this tradition often results in a huge amount of overconsumption and textile waste. Instead of purchasing a new costume that may only be worn once, consider these alternatives:

Costume Swap: Organize a costume swap with friends or neighbors. This way, you can find a new-to-you costume and give your old one a new lease on life.

DIY Costumes: Get creative and make your own costumes using materials you already have at home. This not only reduces waste but also allows for a unique and personalized look.

Thrift Store Finds: Thrift stores are treasure troves for costume ideas. Browse through secondhand stores for clothing and accessories that can be repurposed into Halloween costumes. Some locations even put out sections dedicated to costumes during this time!

Boo-tiful and Sustainable: Decorating Your (Haunted) House

Halloween decorations often involve a plethora of plastic and disposable items. Can you say EEEEEEEEEK?? Here’s how you can make your Halloween décor more sustainable:

Natural Decorations: Incorporate natural elements like pumpkins (more on this later!), gourds, leaves, and pinecones into your decorations. These items can be composted after the holiday.

DIY Decor: Craft your own decorations from recycled materials or items found around the house! Paper bats, cardboard tombstones, and fabric ghosts are fun and sustainable options.

Reusable Decorations: Invest in high-quality, reusable decorations that can be used year after year. These may cost a bit more upfront but will save resources in the long run.

Ghastly Glow: Jack-O’-Lanterns

Carving pumpkins is a beloved Halloween tradition, but it often results in a lot of food waste. Here’s how to be more environmentally responsible with your jack-o’-lanterns:

1.4 billion pumpkins are produced for Halloween every year, and in 2019, 8 million of these pumpkins went to landfill. The energy, water and other resources that are used to produce these pumpkins have an environmental impact. Not only that, when the pumpkins decompose in landfill, they emit methane, a harmful greenhouse gas. 

SAVE YOUR CLOSET

Eat the Insides: Don’t toss the pumpkin flesh! Use it to make delicious soups, pies, or roasted pumpkin seeds.

Compost the Scraps: Any pumpkin parts you can’t use can be composted either with your curbside service if that is available or turning them into valuable nutrient-rich soil for your garden.

Ditch The Trash For Your Halloween Bash!

If you’re hosting a Halloween party, consider making it less environmentally ghastly by following these steps:

Use Real Plates and Cutlery: Avoid disposable plates, cups, and cutlery by using real dishes or curbside compostable alternatives.

Zero-Waste Snacks: Serve snacks and finger foods (get it) that generate minimal waste. Avoid single-serving packaged snacks whenever possible.

Sustainable Decor: Decorate your party space with the decorations that I discussed in the above section about decor!

Let’s talk about the inevitable- CANDY WRAPPERS.

These bad boys are hang around our environment like that one guest at the Halloween party that WON’T LEAVE. But there is a solution for dealing with this candy packaging… Unite your neighborhood or rally the neighborhood school for a recycling mission. TerraCycle specializes in hard-to-recycle items and offers a collection box for candy and snack wrappers that can be shipped right back to TerraCycle! Check it out here!

So there you have it, folks – a recipe for a hauntingly fun yet environmentally conscious Halloween that even the scariest witches and zombies would approve of. Remember, it’s all about creativity, mindful choices, and a dash of spooky spirit WITHOUT leaving ghostly carbon footprint behind. By dressing sustainably, decorating thoughtfully, and treating the planet kindly, you can enjoy the chills and thrills of Halloween without filling LANDFILLS. Let’s make this Halloween a howling success for both you and the environment!

Eco-Conscious Back-to-School: 10 Ways to Go Green This Year

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On September 1, 2023

In parenting, Sustainable Living, Uncategorized

As a former elementary school teacher and now a parent of an elementary aged child, the anticipation of a new school year ALWAYS fills me with excitement. It’s a time for children and parents alike to embark on a new adventure, and it’s also a fantastic opportunity to instill eco-friendly practices that benefit both our kids and the planet. In this comprehensive guide, I’ll share numerous eco-conscious ideas and essentials for preparing your child for school. Whether you’re a seasoned parent or a first-timer, these tips will help you make the back-to-school experience more sustainable and enjoyable. (Note: Some of the product recommendations below include affiliate links, while others do not.)

1. Lunch Box: PlanetBox Bento Box

One of the most eco-friendly choices you can make is selecting a durable, reusable lunch box. I highly recommend the stainless steel lunch box by PlanetBox. It’s not only dishwasher safe but also comes with multiple compartments, making it perfect for packing a variety of foods. Plus, it’s designed for easy access, allowing even the littlest hands to open it without assistance. What’s more, it’s built to last for years, eliminating the need for disposable lunch containers. (Note: This is not an affiliate recommendation.)

2. Silicone Snack Bags: Stasher Bags

Another fantastic eco-friendly addition to your school routine is silicone snack bags, such as those offered by Stasher. These bags have become a staple in our family for good reason. They’re not only dishwasher safe but also incredibly durable. Unlike disposable plastic bags, they can be used over and over again, reducing the waste produced by your child’s snacks. Whether you’re packing fruit, nuts, or sandwiches, Stasher Bags are a reliable and environmentally friendly choice. (Note: This is not an affiliate recommendation.)

3. Reef-Safe Sunscreen: Beautycounter Sunscreen Stick

For outdoor activities and sun protection, opt for a reef-safe sunscreen like the Beautycounter Sunscreen Stick. This sunscreen is not only easy for little hands to apply but also leaves no white cast, making it suitable for people of all ages. It’s formulated with safety in mind, ensuring it’s gentle on your child’s skin and the environment. So, you can send your child to school with the peace of mind that they’re protected without harming our oceans. Use code CLEANFORALL20 for 20% off your first purchase

4. Secondhand Clothing: Embrace Sustainable Fashion

When it comes to clothing your child for school, consider eco-friendly options like secondhand clothing. Hand-me-downs from friends and neighbors can be a great way to reduce waste and save money. Additionally, explore in-person thrift stores or online platforms like Kidizen, which specialize in gently-used children’s clothing. By choosing secondhand options, you’re not only reducing the environmental impact of clothing production but also promoting a circular economy. Use code CFF0i for $5 your first order ( thats a zero btw)

5. Eco-Friendly Transportation: Reduce Your Carbon Footprint

One of the most impactful ways to make the school journey eco-friendly is by choosing sustainable transportation options. Encourage biking, walking, carpooling, or taking the bus to school whenever possible. Not only do these choices reduce carbon emissions, but they also help alleviate the chaos of drop-off and pick-up lines. As an example, our 6-year-old will be riding the school bus this year with her cousins, and she couldn’t be more excited about this eco-friendly adventure.

6. Reusable Water Bottle, Utensils, and Cloth Napkins: Ditch Single-Use Plastics

Reduce single-use plastic waste by investing in reusable essentials. We love Yeti water bottles because they’re not only durable but also dishwasher safe. In today’s busy world, the convenience of being able to toss them in the dishwasher is a big plus. For utensils, you can either use what you already own or opt for bamboo utensil sets, which are a sustainable alternative to disposable plastic ones.

Additionally, consider sending your child to school with cloth napkins instead of paper ones. These small changes can significantly reduce the amount of single-use plastic your family generates.

7. Label Everything: Teach Responsibility and Organization

Labeling your child’s belongings is not just about keeping things organized; it’s also a valuable lesson in responsibility. Help your child label everything, from backpacks to lunch boxes and clothing. Establish a routine for putting items away when they’re done with them at school and when they return home. This practice not only prevents items from getting lost but also teaches kids the importance of taking care of their possessions.

8. Zero-Waste Snacks: Minimize Packaging Waste

When packing snacks and lunches for your child, think about ways to minimize packaging waste. Invest in reusable containers for snacks like fruit, vegetables, and trail mix. By reducing single-use packaging, you not only reduce waste but also save money in the long run.

9. Teach Sustainability: Involve Your Child

Lastly, make back-to-school eco-friendliness a family affair. Involve your child in the process and teach them about sustainability. Explain why you’re making certain choices, like using reusable containers or choosing secondhand clothing. By including your child in these discussions and actions, you’re instilling a lifelong appreciation for eco-conscious living.

10. Volunteer for Green Initiatives at School

Get involved in eco-friendly initiatives at your child’s school. Volunteer to help with recycling programs, participate in community clean-up events, or join the school’s sustainability committee if available. By actively engaging in green activities within the school community, you not only promote environmental awareness but also contribute to a more eco-conscious educational environment for your child and others. These efforts can inspire positive change and demonstrate the importance of sustainability beyond the classroom.

In conclusion, preparing your child for school can be an opportunity to embrace eco-friendly practices and instill valuable lessons in sustainability. These tips and essentials will not only make the back-to-school experience more environmentally friendly but also set a positive example for your child. Here’s to a fantastic school year filled with learning, growth, and eco-conscious choices that benefit both your child and the planet!

Rise, Resist and Nurture: Motherhood’s Empowering Actions to Dismantle the Patriarchy

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On May 19, 2023

In parenting, Uncategorized

Motherhood is a journey that holds immense power—the power to shape the future, challenge the status quo, and dismantle the chains of patriarchy.

The patriarchy, with its deep-rooted norms and power imbalances, restricts the potential of all genders. It perpetuates harmful stereotypes, stifles individuality, and reinforces inequality.

Always trying to dictate the rules, it’s like a bad game of Monopoly where only a select few get to collect the money and own the best real estate. But fear not, because mommy is here to challenge the status quo. It’s time to flip the script, dismantle the patriarchy, and empower a new generation to rewrite the rules in their own way.

As mothers, we have the ability to take bold and empowering actions that promote gender equality and pave the way for a brighter, more inclusive world. So, let’s grab our superhero capes and explore some impactful steps we can take to shake up the patriarchal landscape:

  1. Parent with a Vision: We can be the driving force behind change by instilling the values of gender equality in our children. Through open and honest conversations, we can educate our little ones about the harmful effects of gender stereotypes and biases. Let’s encourage them to challenge societal norms, embrace empathy, and celebrate the diverse talents and capabilities of all individuals.
  2. Nurture Critical Thinkers: By fostering critical thinking skills, we empower our children to question the world around them. Let’s encourage them to examine the messages they receive from media, society, and peers. By teaching them to think independently and critically about gender norms and stereotypes, we equip them with the tools to challenge the status quo and advocate for equality.
  3. Language Matters: Words have the power to shape our perceptions and reinforce societal norms. As mothers, we can promote inclusivity by using language that embraces all genders. Let’s break free from gendered labels and instead use language that respects and acknowledges the diverse identities of individuals. By doing so, we create an environment where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued.
  4. Stand as Advocates: We are a force to be reckoned with when we raise our voices and advocate for gender equality. We can actively participate in activism and advocacy efforts that challenge gender-based discrimination and violence. Whether it’s joining local organizations, attending rallies, or engaging in online campaigns, our collective actions can create waves of change.
  5. Lift Each Other Up: Supporting and empowering other women and girls is an integral part of our journey. Let’s become mentors, cheerleaders, and advocates for women and girls in our communities. By creating safe spaces and nurturing environments, we enable them to thrive and embrace their full potential. Let’s also amplify their voices, celebrate their achievements, and stand united in our pursuit of equality.
  6. Self-Care as Resistance: Taking care of ourselves is an act of rebellion against the patriarchal norms that often demand our self-sacrifice. Prioritizing our well-being, setting boundaries, and seeking support when needed are essential steps in our journey. By valuing ourselves and demonstrating self-love, we become role models for our children and contribute to a society that values the holistic well-being of all its members.

“I want them to see a mother who loves them dearly, who invests in them, but who also invests in herself. It’s just as much about letting them know as young women that it is okay to put yourself a little higher on your priority list.”

Michelle Obama

Here are ten fantastic children’s books that promote gender equality and feminism for children ages 3-8:

  1. “The Paper Bag Princess” by Robert Munsch: This classic tale features Princess Elizabeth, who outsmarts a dragon and challenges traditional gender roles. It emphasizes bravery, resourcefulness, and the importance of being true to oneself.
  2. “Rosie Revere, Engineer” by Andrea Beaty: Rosie dreams of becoming a great engineer and learns that perseverance and embracing failure are essential for success. This book encourages girls to pursue their passions and highlights the value of resilience. There are other titles from the author with similar messages- Sofia Valdez, Future Prez, Ada Twist, Scientist
  3. “Not All Princesses Dress in Pink” by Jane Yolen and Heidi E. Y. Stemple: In this colorful and playful book, princesses engage in a variety of activities beyond traditional stereotypes, showing that being a princess can be diverse and empowering.
  4. “Malala’s Magic Pencil” by Malala Yousafzai: Based on the inspiring true story of Malala Yousafzai, this book introduces children to her childhood dreams and her advocacy for girls’ education. It promotes bravery, standing up for one’s rights, and making a positive impact.
  5. “The Name Jar” by Yangsook Choi: This story follows a young Korean girl who learns to appreciate her name and cultural identity in a new school. It encourages inclusivity, embracing diversity, and celebrating one’s heritage.
  6. “I Like Myself!” by Karen Beaumont: This delightful book teaches children about self-acceptance, self-love, and embracing their unique qualities. It emphasizes that it’s what’s inside that truly matters, promoting positive self-image and confidence.
  7. “Julian Is a Mermaid” by Jessica Love: Julian loves mermaids and expresses himself authentically, embracing his identity. This book encourages children to be true to themselves and celebrates individuality and acceptance.
  8. “She Persisted: 13 American Women Who Changed the World” by Chelsea Clinton: This inspiring book introduces young readers to remarkable women who have made a significant impact throughout history. It highlights the power of persistence and determination in pursuing one’s dreams.
  9. “Grace for President” by Kelly DiPucchio: Grace runs for class president and challenges gender stereotypes by showing that anyone, regardless of gender, can be a leader. It encourages children to believe in their abilities and promotes the concept of equal representation.
  10. “Sulwe” by Lupita Nyong’o: This beautifully illustrated book tells the story of a young girl named Sulwe who learns to embrace her unique beauty and discovers her own self-worth. It celebrates diversity, self-acceptance, and inner beauty.
  11. “I Dissent: Ruth Bader Ginsburg Makes Her Mark” by Debbie Levy: This biography introduces children to the inspiring life of Ruth Bader Ginsburg, a trailblazing Supreme Court Justice who fought for gender equality and women’s rights. It emphasizes the importance of speaking up and standing up for what is right.
  12. “The Story of Ruby Bridges” by Robert Coles: Based on the true story of Ruby Bridges, the first African American child to attend an all-white school in the 1960s, this book teaches children about courage, resilience, and the fight for equal rights.
  13. “Grace Goes to Washington” by Kelly DiPucchio: In this empowering tale, Grace joins her class on a trip to Washington, D.C., and discovers the importance of using her voice and taking action to make a difference. It encourages civic engagement and advocacy.

These books provide children with valuable lessons about equality, empowerment, and embracing one’s authentic self. They inspire conversations about gender equality, diversity, and the importance of everyone’s voice being heard.

Remember, dear moms, each action we take, no matter how small, has the potential to create a ripple effect that reverberates far beyond our immediate surroundings. Together, we can dismantle the patriarchal structures that hold us back and foster a better world. So, let’s embrace our power, unleash our voices, and lead the charge toward a brighter future—for ourselves, our children, and generations to come.

In solidarity,

Allie

Kid Friendly Camping Ideas for Bryce and Zion

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On July 18, 2022

In Camping, parenting, travel

Family walk to check out the beginning of the Narrows

I know you are not going to believe me–but, this trip was even better than I was expecting. I am opening with this simple fact, because as overwhelming as it can be to just GO with kids, it is always, always worth it. So, grab your map of Utah, a few highlighters and a notebook.

Let’s camp Bryce and Zion.

Where to Stay 101:

We chose Bryce and Zion only about 4 months before the trip, and by that time, all of the camping within the park was already full.  After a bit of research we were able to score a spot at Zion Canyon Campground, located in Springdale, Utah and literal steps from the South Entrance.  And this was our first lesson–just because we weren’t  in the park, doesn’t mean we didn’t get park perks. We were walkable from the park entrance- which meant we could pop back to the campground if needed, and we didn’t have to battle for parking (which does fill up!) and we zipped right into the park with no traffic when we drove in.  

View from our campsite

I have nothing but good things to say about this campground.  Clean, convenient, and FULL HOOK UPS- which was so nice–we didn’t have to worry about water and power for the week! Initially we were a bit bummed that we didn’t get a site along the river, because the setting is beautiful, but once we got there, we thanked our lucky stars that we didn’t! Water and young children do NOT mix, unless you are prepared to be hyper vigilant the ENTIRE time.  Our spot was nice enough- our girls loved playing with their monster trucks and cars in the red dirt and getting completely filthy (hence the gratitude for unlimited water!!) The campground is a breezy 10 minutes walking from the South gate and sits along the Virgin River.  

I highly recommend staying in Springdale, and if you can grab a spot at Watchman or South campground within the park- even better. Springdale has a couple of small markets, a few places to eat and some shops. We ate at Whiptail Grill- a service station turned restaurant and enjoyed their outdoor dining (and goat cheese chili relleno). There are not a ton of options for grocery stores here we ended up popping over to a little market across from the campground but prices were extreme so highly recommend bringing your food into the town of Springdale.

Birkenstocks and socks are a go to camping combo

With young kids in tow the best advice I can give is this–keep things as convenient as possible.This will change based on the needs of each family, but in short: be close to camp entrances, have access to the necessary amenities (for us that was water and bathrooms), restaurants and cafes, and choose a spot that allows kids to safely explore during down time.

Now on to the good stuff–the hikes, trails and explorations in Bryce and Zion.

Kid Friendly Hikes in the Zion Canyon:

To access Zion canyon, you must take the shuttle bus that picks up at the visitor center.  Once in the canyon, there are MANY hikes to enjoy (both long and short!) but here are the ones I can recommend with small children. 

Marlow playing in the sand at Checkerboard Mesa

Upper Emerald Pools– This hike was somewhat strenuous for our 4 year old, but she LOVED walking behind the waterfall (Lower Emerald Pools) and continuing on to Middle Emerald Pools and Upper Emerald Pools. On our way back down, instead of retracing the trail to Lower Emerald Pools and Zion Canyon Lodge, we took the Kayena trail back down to The Grotto shuttle stop. (Quick Tip: the beauty of the shuttle means you don’t have to end where you started!)

Kayena Trail– This stunning trail runs along the “cliffside” above the Virgin River and boasts jaw dropping views of the canyon. We actually hiked this trail twice because we loved it so much. Later in the afternoon around 4 it was practically empty, and the light in the canyon was magical.

Riverwalk Trail– If you are looking for an easy, mellow hike, this a paved, relatively flat walk along the river. It is also the beginning of the Narrows hike, so if the water level allows you will see many hikers in their waders! You could bring a stroller on this if you wanted.

Hike to Scout Lookout– My glutes still hurt just thinking about this one. 1000 vertical feet in 2 miles, and I carried my 2 year old in the kid carrier (leg day!). Scouts Lookout is as far as you can go before you need a permit (and rock solid nerves) to scale the last bit of the Angels Landing hike. This trail is NO JOKE and was challenging for all of us. We were so impressed that our 4 year old was able to do it- shout out to the 864 Skittles she ate on the way up. The view from the top is breathtaking, and worth the ass kicking on the way up. (Quick Tip–Best way to motivate a young hiker? Bribes. Lots of bribes. Our favorites are skittles, mms, and small fruit snacks dispensed one at a time.)

My sweeties enjoying the riverwalk hike

Outside the Canyon

Checkerboard Mesa:This isn’t much of a trail persay, but our kids did enjoy getting out of the car and playing on this interesting rock formation. We used this as a lunch spot, and enjoyed relaxing, taking in the views and letting the girls play in the sand.

Canyon Overlook Trail: This is an iconic Zion trail.  I’d say this trail was moderate, with some steep sections, but overall not too strenuous.  The view is insane, which means the parking is scarce- get there early. For kids under 3, bring a backpack carrier or be prepared to carry them for a few sections.

Views from the Canyon Overlook Trail

Bryce Canyon

We chose to only do one day in Bryce, and that felt like that was enough. It was about a 2 hour drive from our campground in Springdale. It is a different climate, and we needed long pants and jackets. We did the Navajo Loop and Queens Garden Trail that provided some killer views of the Hoodoos. We drove to a few of the other look outs and HAD to stop at Ruby’s General Store.

Bryce Canyon Hoodoos (and M is SNOOOZING)

Everyone will do Zion and Bryce a little differently, but here are a few of our takeaways…

Golden nuggets of wisdom: 

Ebikes: If your kids have outgrown a kid carrier then I recommend renting ebikes and riding into the park.  There is a nice trail from the visitor center called the Parnus trail that takes you into the canyon.  From there you will have to ride on the road (and they have a rule that when the shuttles come by you must pull over and put your foot down to pass) to the trail heads.  If we didn’t have the giant kid carrier for Marlow, we for SURE would have done this.  When we come back next time, you will find us on bikes!

Earlier is better: This is the third most visited National Park in the country, so plan accordingly.  We went during busy season (April) and it was crowded.  We got going early every day save one, and we had about a 25 min wait to get on the shuttle. Shuttles come often, and the employees are efficient, so things ran smoothly, but  we still heard nightmare stories of people waiting 90 min+.  

Check the weather: We were SPOILED and the weather was extremely nice when we were there, with most days being in the mid 60s to 70s, and the mornings around 45-50s.  

Later can be better too: One of the days, we headed into the park around 3:30 and practically had the place to ourselves! Since many people day trip to the park from farther flung areas, there seems to be a mass exodus from the park around 4-4:30.  We had the trails to ourselves and the light in the canyon was spectacular. *Be sure to check the time for the last shuttle.  

There will be crowds: Adjust your expectations.  You’re going to the third most visited National Park.  There are going to be people- lots of them.  Be kind to all and try to keep a good attitude.  I always try to keep the mentality that all of these people are out enjoying the outdoors and perhaps by seeing these stunning places they will be motivated to protect the environment.  

Bring your own water bottles and refill regularly: Most of the stops have refill stations–save some weight (and the environment) by bringing refillable bottles, and load up at each stop. People often don’t realize they are getting dehydrated in the desert, so stay on top of that water!

Naps on the go: When we are on vacation, we let go of the naptime schedule a bit. Our 2 year old mostly napped in the backpack. We also tend to relax some on the bedtime too. I know this can be tricky, but we have found the more you can just “roll” with things, the better.

Our happy little camper!

Finally, the low down dirty details on how each day rolled out…

Our Itinerary:

Day one: Drive from Bay Area to Barstow.  We had a great pit stop at Murray Family Farms outside of Bakersfield.  They have animals, slides, pick your own fruit, and a fun bouncey feature- it was a PERFECT stop for anyone traveling with kids.  We stayed at the Calico Ghost Town Campground (not our first time staying here and TBH it is not our fave).  Full hookups and does the job.  

Day Two: Drive from Barstow to Zion.  Arrived in Zion late afternoon, set up camp and prepped for the next day.

Day Three: Got up and going early and walked to the visitor center where we picked up the Junior Ranger booklet for Ruby and hopped on the shuttle.  We hiked to Upper Emerald Pools, and ate lunch up there.  On the way down we took the Kayenta Trail to the Grotto Stop.  Then we hopped on the shuttle and took it to the last stop (the Temple of Sinawava) and did the Riverwalk.  It was a full day and we were WIPED out.  We got back to camp around dinner time.

Day Four: Drove into the park to the Canyon Overlook Trail.  Scored a parking place in the tiny lot (our lucky day!).  After the hike we went out to Checkerboard Mesa, ate lunch and played around.  Headed back to camp to regroup, and then Ruby wanted to go back to Lower Emerald Pools because you get to walk behind a little waterfall (which she loved the first day.) We took the Kayenta Trail again down to the Grotto stop.  It was seriously one of our best memories because there was practically NO ONE there- a stark contrast to our first day that was a bit of a mob scene.  Took the shuttle and got back to camp around 6:45.

Day Five: We drove 2 hours to Bryce Canyon National Park.  It was MUCH colder there (40 degrees compared to the 70 we had in Zion!)  and we hiked the Queens Garden/Navajo Loop through Hoodoo land.  It is the most popular hike in the park and was crowded for sure.  It was strenuous for all, as I had Marlow on my back, and Casey had Ruby on his shoulders on the way back up the canyon.  We enjoyed the change in landscape and felt like the Hoodoos made the park feel otherworldly! Ruby completed another Junior Ranger booklet and Marlow even got a pin here! On our way out we stopped at Ruby’s General Store for a poke around.  Got back to camp and decided to go out to eat at The Whip Tail- the restaurant right next to our campground.

Day Six:  We had a slow roll morning- slept in a bit and made a full breakfast and geared up for our big hike.  We didn’t get to the Visitor Center around 11:00  and there was a bit of a wait to get on the shuttle (20 minutes).  We started on the Angels Landing trail around noon (after eating lunch at the trailhead.)  We hiked (and got our butts kicked) up to Scout Lookout. Snacked at the top and headed back down.  We took the shuttle to Zion Canyon Lodge and relaxed on lawn for an hour and ate ice cream.  Got back to camp around 7…longggg but full day.

Day 7: Drive from Zion to Tehachapi.  We hopped on the road and stopped in Vegas and had an extended pitstop at Meow Wolf- an interactive art installation made by a Santa Fe based artist collective.  SUCH A FUN STOP! After a couple of hours exploring the experience, we hopped back on the road and drove to Tehachapi RV and spent the night.  

Day 8: Tehachapi to the Bay Area.  

I hope you found this helpful. I have another camping post in the works, so be sure to subscribe to my newsletter to never miss an update.

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