Fashion

September 23, 2019

Family Friendly Hikes in Utah

Are you from a place where fall exists? Oh I hope so!! This week officially launched us into a new season +I can honestly tell you that this is our favorite time to dive into the beauty in our own backyard! The perfect time to soak up the beautiful hikes Utah has to offer. The temperatures are cool + crisp, all the leaves are starting to change colors. They call this place beUTAHful for a reason!! The trick is finding ones that set your kids up for success as well.

GP : backpack | hiking boots | pullover **RIGG** : backpack | hiking boots

Two key players for hiking with kids. SKITTLES + comfortable Hiking boots or shoes. I look for something waterproof + something broken in. Packing light + bringing layers. Doesn’t that sound like a contradiction? Not for BACKCOUNTRY. The most reliable shop for outdoor family gear! I’d also say find an old school compass that is only out when you’re hiking. We only have one + the boys get so jazzed when it’s their turn to lead!

We have gotten our money worth on this Thule Baby Carrier! Rigg has taken his fair share of rides in here + it’s much more comfortable for any of the kids if they get tired from hiking. Way easier than carrying them on your back. It stands on it’s own once you set it down + also has lots of storage space for waters, snacks, wipes, sunscreen, etc.

I’m not a huge planner, so I’m usually needing something day of or next day (thank you overnight shipping) when it comes to gear or food. 🙂 A huge perk of living local SLC – are the Backcountry pick up options. They will pull your order for you if you call or hop on with a gear head after you place it! Otherwise it all ships within 2 days! Their customer experience gurus are legit the besssst company I’ve ever partnered with. We were fortunate enough for them to give you all an ongoing promo code!! So you can dress/gear up your crew for your fall/winter activities at a cheaper price. Keep in mind they have alllll kinds of outdoor gear.

Use code : GINGER for 15% off your first backcountry order. *exclusions apply

Hiking with kids is no joke. Don’t be fooled by the pictures, the boys still complain. But for whatever reason carrying a pocket full of skittles really eleviates a big part of the complaining. TRY IT!! Wanted to share a few of our favorite hikes that made it back to our #PARRISHFAMBUCKETLIST.

5 KID FRIENDLY HIKES IN UTAH TO ADD TO YOUR BUCKET LIST:

FARMINGTON POND TRAIL AKA PARRISH NEVERLAND :

I have never been here when it’s crowded. I’m hoping this post doesn’t send the masses, but I absolutely loveeeee the overgrown trees + calm feeling it has. I’ve shared this book reading picnic spot on our instagram. It has a small trail you can walk up alongside the river + plenty of nooks to hang hammocks or read books or feed the ducks. There’s a rope swing the boys love to play on + plenty of hungry ducks to feed. We plan to invest in some smaller paddleboards + try to make it to the other side without falling in. If you live in or around Davis County add it to your bucket list. I betcha a bag of sour patch kids you won’t be disappointed.

SILVER LAKE BIG COTTONWOOD:

I’ve visited here in each of the seasons. Fall is beeeautiful. The drive up to it is even remarkable. Bring your big camera! The views are unreal + lots of times there’s even a moose or two hanging out. There’s a planked walking path almost all the way around the lake. It’s all flat + even. I even see people bringing strollers, not sure I would because there is a small part that there isn’t a trail, but is totally doable. Have you ever taken yours? We’ve done scooters, but that kinda stressed me out. I’d suggest a scavenger hunt or game to play while you walk. Or go on a date night sans kids 🙂 That’s always a win! There are TONS of trail heads that you can find around the lake if you’re feeling up to something more.

DONUT FALLS :

Probably one of the most popular hikes people talk about in Utah, and for good reason. It’s only about 1 mile each way + is super easy hiking, with a wide trail for half of it. The waterfall at the top is beautiful!! People climb up to the top of the waterfall to complete the hike, but with kids I would not recommend this. Please make sure the water isn’t too high or moving too fast.

Right before you get to the waterfall there is a small hike down on rocks you have to do. It’s super short + most of the time they’re lots of people there to help! I would recommend carrying or wearing your babies. You will also cross a 2 foot long river, but it is only a couple inches deep. Wear shoes that you don’t mind get wet. You can usually spot out rocks to walk across so this isn’t really even an issue. Once you crossed that small river crossing you’ve made it!

ADAMS CANYON :

We haven’t been up there since the fire, I’m nervous about it. WE LOVE this canyon. Especially around the 4th of july when the flags are up. We had a devastating fire blow through here last week + I haven’t seen how things are shaping up there. This is normally one of the most spectacular fall trails to do with kids. Try to go during the week if possible, it tends to get more busy on the weekend.

This is another hike that goes to a beautiful waterfall in Layton (Davis County). This hike is a little more difficult than Donut Falls + I would recommend having a carrier for young tired prone hikers. The switchbacks at the beginning are a little steep and can be tiresome on little legs. That’s the steepest part of the hike, but there’s still a lot of uphill left. Some of the spots can get a little rocky – – – both of our older boys haven’t had a problem though.

BLOODS LAKE :

This is located just off the Guardsman Pass Overlook (Big Cottonwood Canyon) Parking lot is located on your left. This is a great hike for kids because it is so short, so you get the reward of the lake early on. It can be steep going down though so I would recommend walking sticks (ask Rigg if you need to find a good one) + a good pair of hiking shoes for kids. It may be short, but it’s supppper pretty. This is a great Sunday afternoon picnic spot + the boys would stay all night throwing rocks into the lake if we let them.

I hope one of these hikes helps you unplug + get outside together as a family. The more you do it, the less they complain. AND depending on how tired they are before we even start. But my advice is to KEEP GOING. Keep finding ways to get outside. Let the kiddos in on your brainstorming session or let them lead the songs on the trail. Believe it or not I haven’t always been outdoorsy. But the more I see their little minds light up at the most simple things the more determined I am to disconnect + plug into these special boys that mean the most to me! Happy Fall, YALL!

We love you! xx

this post is sponsored by Backcountry. I am partnering with Backcountry to keep encouraging you to get outside and find your backcountry, wherever that may be. Use code GINGER for 15% off your first purchase at Backcountry.com! *exclusions apply

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Fashion

August 30, 2019

FINDING THE BACKCOUNTRY OUTSIDE OF SAN FRANCISCO

I don’t mean to start off on a negative foot, just want to be a bit more transparent with where my mind was at leading up to this trip to the backcountry of San Francisco!! I had to fly out on Jonah’s first day of school, but booked a late enough flight that I was able to take both of them to school + walk them in. And be back home to pick them up on the third day!! Someone shared with me recently the power of replacing HAVE TO – to GET to. I’ll walk you through a play by play from our retreat! We stayed in a quaint little about an hour + a half from San Fran.

SUNRISE YOGA : We woke up at 6:45 + walked through a guided yoga flow while the rest of the world right around us was just waking up The Ocean waves were crashing below us + the birds were singing their morning songs. She encouraged us to set an intention for the trip + put reason behind our day. “DEEPER MEANING” is what I wrote down in my journal when I got back to my room.

I talked a lot about my feelings from our trip to the bay area here.

SUP at TOMALES BAY : first stop was paddle boarding with the girls in a freshwater lake.

LUNCH at SALTWATER : Salt Water is a local restaurant, (oyster friends, a must visit) that has the sweetest energy about it. The menu was home grown, cooked while we were there + open special hours for us to get to try. Once again watching the head chef really share his love for food with each of us made my heart sing.

HIKE AT WILDFLOWER TRAIL : Robyn was our tour guide + I wish I had just attached my phone to her waist as she led our hike because she was a walking talking fountain of inspiring motivation. She’s inspired me to dust off my list of hikes. She rebirthed my desire to explore my new backyard.

I’ve always been drawn to yogi’s. I crave their calming energy. I have an awwwful way of remembering coreographed anything, so it’d take some serious practice. But I enjoy learning from their talents + look forward to attending one of Lesley’s retreats someday.

SUNSET DINNER : the perfect ending for a soul-filling day. I’m not the fanciest eater. In fact, I can’t wait to get home to have a bowl of cereal after the majority of our trips. This beach-scape dinner was the cherry on top. Stayed well after the party was shut down refilling my cup with confidence that I can do hard things. I can keep going + not lose my identity when this “influencer” world is telling me how to be. Because what I’ve discovered – is that that world isn’t the one dictating my thoughts, it’s my heart.

this post is sponsored by SHOPSTYLE x BACKCOUNTRY

The way I found “DEEPER MEANING” was by submerging myself into uncharted BACKCOUNTRY. What it means on a deeper level was my real break through. But the real magic comes when I realized I’m able to take it with me wherever the adventures of the day unfolds. It’s a feeling. It’s a head space. I found my backcountry as I quietly went back to my room + facetimed the boys. I found it as I pushed through my nervous jitters at the dinner table the first night as everyone started rolling in + didn’t know a soul. Both of these brand’s desire to bring together likeminded women + create GOAT WORTHY moments was remarkable. One that I admire as a business owner myself. It’s apparent to me that what you put into relationships you get out. I love passion. Of all sorts. I am grateful for the opportunity I had to hear about passions from new friends! Grateful to have reconnected with my purpose here THIS TRIP THO.

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June 28, 2019

Top 10 things to do in Northern California

Jon grew up going to Redding, California to visit his cousins in the summer time. But for the rest of us, it was our first time visiting this part of Northern California. The views were breathtaking!

We flew into Sacramento, rented a car + drove to Redding. already on your bucket list, add it. Soooooo, so worth it. We flew, but from Utah it isn’t too bad of a drive — around 10 hours. In Redding we stayed at the Sheraton, which is right next to the Sundial Bridge. In Tahoe we stayed at the Lake Tahoe Resort. If you’re interested in a more outdoor experience or to save on hotels, they have an incredible amount of beautiful camping spots!

We got so many recommendations from all of you – – – THANK YOU! We have noted the ones we didn’t get to for our next trip. Happy to list them at the end of this post! But we wanted to share a few of our favorite kid friendly activities in Northern California.

REDDING, CALIFORNIA:

The small town, mountain-town feel brought all kinds of nostalgia. I loved that we had quick access to Chipotle + ma + pa diners.

HOTEL : Sheraton by Sundial Bridge

The pool backs up to the new Turtle Bay playground. Super clean + room service on point. It’s an incredible location + walking distance from beautiful hiking trails : get the avocado toast at the Mosiac restaurant next door + thank me later!

✖️Shasta Caverns : we did the tour. So worth it! You take a ferry across Shasta lake, pull into a pine tree lined dock that looks straight from a romance novel, then hop on a bus up to the cavern! FUN FACT: the difference in a cave + cavern is if they have a seperate entrance + exit. Cave’s have one way in, you use the same way to get out. This cavern was full of stalagmite crystals that have been there for millions of years! You follow the guide in one way, then exit out the other side. The tour guide had a flashlight so they are not required – – but I’d suggest bringing your camera + a bottle of water. The caverns are constantly 58 degrees with a high humidity level of 90 to 95%. This raises the temperature to about 68 to 72 degrees. Consider the current outside weather + be sure you wear comfortable shoes, since the tour includes extensive walking and stair climbing. I tied this sweatshirt around my waist + the boys didn’t want or need one. They don’t get cold as easily. No climbing or crawling is required. I get claustrophobic easily, but it wasn’t a problem! The passages are the same size as a hallway + the rooms are generally very open. The kids loved it! Strollers nor backpacks are allowed. I wore my fanny pack + didn’t have a problem. Check out my highlight bubble ‘cali’ to see more video of this adventure!

✖️Lake Shasta : pack a picnic + some sunscreen. the kids had so much fun playing in the sand!

✖️Burney Falls Hike : bring your camera! Super easy, (stair) hike down to a stunning waterfall! The big boys were able to hike easy + we carried Jack in our carrier. Sometimes Rigg. 🙂

✖️ Sundial Bridge : Suuuch a breathtaking stop. Like I mentioned, we stayed right near the bridge so we got to see it around the clock. I’d say go at sunset. It lights up + because we were there over the weekend, there was live music + food trucks celebrating the weekend! It was built/opened right around July 4th, so we heard that’s an especially magical time for a visit.

✖️Exploration at Turtle Bay : A MUST DO if you are traveling with kids. Think discovery museum on steroids. They have live animal encounters that you can book (we got to hang out with the sweetest Beaver names Timber). They had a goosebumps exhibit, a butterfly exhibit + the wittiest little animal show out in their amphitheater that left us smiling all day. They just had their soft opening for their new playground. I sincerely appreciate playgrounds built with INTENTION + heart. The overgrown trees + tallest slide in the valley. The boys could have stayed here all day! Bring sunscreen + water!

ROADTRIP FROM SACRAMENTO TO LAKE TAHOE! The drive is beautiful + only takes about 4 hours.

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, CALIFORNIA

I’ve been volunteering to drive on road trips! Ever since my trip to South Carolina, I have a car sick fear. You’ve all heard that I’ve dreamed about coming to Lake Tahoe my whole life + guys the water is soooo blue + clear. Seriously breathtaking! Stop at along the way!

HOTEL : Lake Tahoe Resort :

It’s located on the South side of town and is in walking distance to town – shops, restaurants + the lake. we recommend snagging a scooter! I would totally stay here again!

✖️Kayaking/Paddle boarding at ***** : the best way to get out on the lake for the day! But leave early if you want a decent parking spot. This beach is connected to

✖️ head into town : we ate at ***** + ******

✖️ Emerald Bay Hike :

✖️ Hike to ***** + rock climb at the top :

✖️ Mini golf at ****** + Jump at ************

WOULD NOT RECOMMEND : missing your flight + having to bunk up in Reno for an extra night.

Some of the recommendations we were given :

This post was sponsored by Visit California. All opinions expressed here are my own.

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June 10, 2019

Fun Summer Activities for kids + how to keep White Nike Clothes WHITE, while you’re at it!

To preface this post, when we signed with the talent agency that represents our family, I told them that NIKE was my ultimate dream collaboration/partnership. This has been 3 years in the making + I’m truly grateful lunch myself giddy over this opportunity to work with NIKE.

tap + to shop our look

WORK HARD + BE NICE TO PEOPLE! Oh, + write down the goals that feel too good to be true. We are partnering with Nike to introduce their SUMMER WHITES line. I’ve been a closet tomboy all my life + have worn Nike around town since the womb. The boys ask to wear their Nike shorts everrrrrryday + Jon sports Nike SB at the skate park. Nike is a Parrish family fave through and through.

We’re one week into summer + I’m quickly discovering that I’m not the only Mom wondering how to keep these hoodlums out of trouble until school starts back up. We spend a lot of time outdoors + have plans to spend the majority of our summer out there! Nike helps keep us cool in the Utah heat.

30 things to do this Summer that don’t take a lot of planning + include comfy clothes 🙂

Stovetop smores. Don’t forget to add a strawberry!
Lemonade Stand
Leave pre made happy notes on windshield
go find find a new park you’ve never been to
Treasure Hunt – burn the edges of the pirate map you draw for a real WOW factor
freeze toys (we use action figures) in a bowl of water, let them chisel them out
Go on a bike ride
Play Simon Says, Charades, hopscotch, or annie-I-over
Go to a matinee
wash the car +/or wash bikes
build legos
make muffins from scratch
watch older home videos
splash pad day : do a quick Google splash pads near you search if you haven’t ever been to one – most of them that we’ve been to are free or very inexpensive
write a letter + mail it to grandma + grandpa or cousins
hike Adam’s canyon
paint ice in the sink or in a bucket outside
play around the world on basketball hoop
make a fort, take turns reading books in it
try one of these bike games
put on a play or a talent show (make sure to recruit neighbors to participate + all the parents to watch
glow sticks + night games — kick the can | flashlight tag | ghost in the graveyard
visit the fire department
go to the drive in movie theater | we go to the one on redwood road in slc. pack into the back of a truck or jeep or bring lawn chairs + invite your friends

I AM ALLL here for white on white, but would you believe me if I told you I started my period when I tried on my white pants for the first time. GO FIGURE. I’ve gotta come up with a BTS video to show our daily chaos in real life because I still can’t believe it most of the time + I live here.

Note to self: Keep a bottle of carpet cleaner with you, it took blood out in an instant without water!

Kids don’t need a lot to be happy. They need a happy mom to show them what it means to be a good person to myself + to others. I set out to master one skill for summer + that is to plan ahead more consistently. It’s not my strong suit, but when I do plan, I’m sooo glad I did.

SHOP THE POST:

Thank you Nike + reward style for sponsoring this post!

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FAMILY

May 1, 2019

KID FRIENDLY HIKE ON THE BIG ISLAND, HAWAII WITH BACKCOUNTRY

My parent’s brought all of our family to The Big Island! WHAT A DREAM COME TRUE!!!

SWIMSUIT | JACKET | SHOES | JONAH’S JACKET | RIGG’S JACKET | JACK’S JACKET | BOYS SHOES | JON’S HAT | JON’S SWIM

We knew we’d be going on a few hikes + that rain was in the forecast (isn’t it always in Hawaii . . . at least for one day), so we snagged some new rain gear from Backcountry before we left.

JONAH’S JACKET | JACK’S JACKET | SHOES | BOYS SWIM

The gearheads were AMAZING + walked us through the details about all their technical rain gear + helped us pick the best jackets for packing + staying dry. They were even so nice to give us a Backcountry promo code. Get 15% off your first purchase with code: GINGER

JON’S SWIM | JON’S HAT | BOYS RAIN JACKET | JACK’S RAIN JACKET | BOYS SHOES

a few things we packed for hikes + beach days:

rain gear for the whole family
a GoPro. (on sale) It packs down soooo small so it’s easy to take on hikes + the Hero7 is waterproof, so we took it into the waterfalls no prob. we did snag the floaty so the boys wouldn’t lose it in the waves.
snacks + water! there is a Costco in Kona, so we stopped on the way in. Go for the local acai bowl tho, not the costco ones 🙂 (food post coming soon)
water shoes that are also good for hiking! i love wearing tevas + for the boys their birks were great the majority of the trip. On our Popoui Hike down to the rope swings, they wore these little water shoes!
HATS! y’all know we’re a crazy suncreen family by now, but hats are a great way to keep the sun off your face + keep you cooler while out in the heat allllll day.
these leggings are perfect for the rain. They keep the moisture away from your skin + I love the texture. I even wore them on our travel days!
swimsuits! for just in case you run into any beautiful waterfalls or swimming holes along the way, which isn’t too hard to do in Kona! We shared some of our favorite swim here.
a rain protector for your backpack. I loved that we could carry our gear around all day without worrying about it getting ruined by the rain.

You can snag all this gear for 15% off. Use code: GINGER on your first Backcountry purchase.

POLOLU VALLEY LOOKOUT:

This hike had an awesome wide trail that was easy for walking, which made it perfect for all the kids. It was sooooo beautiful right along the coast + had the best lookout spots + even had a rope swing with a seat!

I’d recommend packing snacks + a lunch for when you get to the bottom. Don’t stop on the rocks, keep walking to neverland!!! Don’t forget to stop at the local little shave ice hut on your way back down to the main road. Her banana bread will blow your mind!

Another quick trip for doing the Big Island with kids, is Carl Smith Beach. You can wade in clear water . . . no waves + they’re always turtles to swim with! The kids will LOVE it!

Be sure to shop all our gear for 15% off your first Backcountry purchase with code: GINGER

see other #goatworthy moments here:

HAMMOCK CAMPING
PADDLEBOARDING IN ST GEORGE
all #GOATWORTHY moments with Backcountry.

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FAMILY

April 30, 2019

Spending Easter In Kona, Hawaii

This Easter was a special one. I think I’ve mentioned here how special my Mom + Dad made holidays growing up. They would focus around Our Savior, Jesus Christ + kept us close as a family. Easter especially!

Watching them continue to make strides to keep us close + loveee on the grandkids makes my heart beam. Pretty surreal to all be together in the most beautiful place on earth as a family!

We flew in on Friday. Settled in Saturday morning + snuck over to Target on the way back from the beach. To our surprise, there were NO baskets left + the easter section nearly emptied by the time we got there! Kinda funny, but we still managed to pick + pull pieces together for each of the kids!

We all got to go to Church together to a local ward + Jack + Cece went up to sing on the stand with the Primary kids. Kinda neat that the Temple was right across the parking lot from the Church. This Island is about the prettiest place I have ever been! EVER.

Have you ever seen a cuter set of Grandparents!?!! Cousins sun up to sun down has been the sweetest scene. Each of the boys have asked to move here! Rigg is convinced he doesn’t need to go to school!

Last time we came to Hawaii, I was in middle school, Mo + Dan didn’t wear make up yet + Kylee was still making us laugh back then!

I can’t imagine life with any other sister in law. Ashley calls herself the chocolate sister + she honestly brings the sweetness!

Hoping you all had a Happy Easter, spent with the ones you love.

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FAMILY

March 28, 2019

Paddleboarding in St George with Backcountry

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Travel

March 25, 2019

OUR TRIP TO DUBAI

Our trip to Dubai didn’t exactly start out like we had envisioned. Long story short, Jon’s passport was expiring in 60 days. Come to find out, you have to be no shorter than 90 days from expiring to get in! He rerouted through Georgia for a same day passport + met us over there a couple days later.

I could tell by Jon’s face that something wasn’t right. He didn’t even want to ask me to do it, the sweet gate lady told me. And those words haunted me, but instead of going home to cry – – – like I thought I had wanted to in that very moment, we grabbed the bags + the kids + with tears in my eyes, we bravely headed on our first flight to Paris. They let him through security to help us get on, but saying goodbye wasn’t easy!

Basically my worst nightmare a 20 hour plane flight with kids alone. I’ll spare the details, because the this was a trip of a lifetime that totally made it worth it! 🙂 You can read more about it + what we packed here.

Looking back on the memories we made over there, I’d do it 10 times over.
Without a question. . . but really kinda praying I don’t have to anytime soon!
Still realizing how many lessons I learned on that 22 hour flight.
Mainly, how JUAN MAKES LIFE SO MUCH BETTER.

We had the very, very best time in Dubai.
It blew every expectation I had out of the water, it was by far one of the coolest places we have ever been!
Wanted to share a few of our cherished memories with y’all. You can check out our entire itinerary here.

Hope you enjoy it + that you’ll all make it there someday, if you haven’t already!

xx,

ginger

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FAMILY

March 20, 2019

Our Dubai Itinerary

In Dubai, we stayed at Atlantis! Un-freaking-real! Waking up to that view each morning was something that could have convinced me to never go home.
The hotel was about 15-20 minutes from all the attractions, so we just took an Uber + didn’t rent a car!

How’s that aquarium for a hotel lobby?! 🙂

One of the number one questions I got asked while there + now that we are back, is if I “felt safe.”
100,000% YES! Dubai is one of the cleanest places we’ve ever been + it was totally family/kid friendly. I was nervous right when we landed because I’m anxious like that, but one of the security guards let me us his phone to connect to wifi! Seriously everyone was so nice + helpful! I felt safe + confident that I could get around until Jon got there! I don’t have an international phone plan, but I was able to connect with Wifi on my phone most every place we went!

I promised several of you that I’d create a recap post with an itinerary with the things we did:

1. Legoland Dubai + Legoland Waterpark

Make sure you go early! We got up + got out.
It closes at 6 pm, so you’ll want to take advantage of the whole day.
This was #1 on the boys list + we had such a fun first day.
They have 40 lego themed rides, a full waterpark + 6 themed lands! #WOWZA
I’d recommend booking your tickets early online, you’ll most likely score a discount!

There was a little district around Legoland that was so fun + even though I was sooo tired (#singlemom + #jetlag),

2. Seawings Dubai:

Jon was MEGA bummed he missed this sea plane tour! This was his activity of choice, but he didn’t make it in time.
We tried to tell him he didn’t miss out to make him feel better, but between us, HE MISSED OUT.
You guys, this was unreal. I felt like I was on the bachelor (only with 3 kids + no boo).
I’ve never done anything like this before.

You can choose different tours, ranging from 20-45 minutes, Seawing Dubai.
We got to see the beautiful aerial view of all of Dubai+ the Burj from the sky!
We did the 45 minute Signature tour. The boys did incredible.
You take off + land in the water. (Rigg’s fave part)
Each boy had their own seat + Jack fell asleep to the hum of the engine. Watch our video here.

3. Atlantis Aquaventure:

They even offer sting ray feedings on the property!

Jonah was brave enough for every single water slide + Rigg wanted to be but couldn’t get them to buy his tall hair do like they do at Lagoon.
But the waterpark at Atlantis was pretty remarkable. Just as I pictured it being.
The lazy river has a conveyor belt that takes you to the top for even more speed. They have double tubes, but no lap riders. We couldn’t find a leg cast cover for Jack so we wrapped it in 2 towels + crossed our fingers. He had the time of his life + by some miracle we kept the cast dry.

Jonah talked me into going down THE slide – – – straight down, through a tunnel of sharks.

You can get tickets to Atlantis Aquaventure park, even if you’re not staying at Atlantis + I would highly recommend it.

4. Desert Safari + Camel ride with Platinum Heritage:

This was one of the most magical nights we spent in Dubai. We really got to immerse ourselves in the beautiful culture.
We went on a desert safari, had dinner + rode camels under the moonlight with Platinum Heritage.
We booked in the hotel. They came + picked us up (make sure you request car seats) + brought us back afterwards.
This was the longest to + from of all our activities. Platinum Heritage was all around amaaaazing with the kids.
There are several different experiences you can choose from on their website. Most of our group stayed the night.

“

They focus on creating an authentic experience by: meeting with local Bedouins, learning the ancient art of Falconry, stargazing with a professional Astronomer to discovering the native desert wildlife riding in the world’s largest collection of open topped 1950’s Land Rovers still in active service.

We loved Platinum Heritage because they choose a gentle wildlife drive over the dunes, which was perfect for kids + spotting wildlife.

5. Al Seef District:

Al Seef District was sooo family friendly + loaded with shops, restaurants + located right along the creek! It was beautiful + so clean! There are so many museums + things to do in this area. Rides for the kids, boat tours, etc. You could spend the whole day here! Look at that dunkin donuts, the cutest ever!

6. Green Planet indoor rainforest:

The Green Planet was Rigg’s favorite activity! It had over 3,000 plants + animals to see/interact with!
There are so many things to do including: a sloth adventure, holding a python, visiting the bat cave.
The natural light bridge was a photographers heaven.
Too bad I dropped my camera down the marble stair case the day we got there.
Wondering if we can have a rope bridge in the new house. The Green Planet is a must see + tickets start at only $24 a person!

I love the “neighborhood” The Green Planet is in!
We hit up the arcade right across the street + the boys played with their new toys while we waited for our uber back to Atlantis.
We also went to the CANDY LAB.

7. Skiing indoors at the Mall of Emirates:

We’re from Utah so we love the mountains + we love to snowboard.
But doing it indoors (when it was hot outside) was completely new to us.
It has been on my bucket list foreverrrr.
We flew out the same night so we didn’t have quite enough time to meet penguins.
We rented all of our gear there, they even give you socks, you just have to purchase gloves! So you could bring your own if you’d like to pack them.

You’ll find 5 slopes, with varying difficulties. Perfect for all ages + skill levels.

Ski Dubai was the first indoor ski resort in the Middle East.
You can enjoy the winter wonderland, without the cold temperatures.
It’s located inside the Mall of Emirates. Oh, + there is a shake shack right up the escalator to the left.

8. Shopping + eating at Dubai Mall:

Dubai has a lot of biggest + best + their mall is no exception!
The food court alone had the best line up I’d ever seen.
There’s a full grocery store as well as every store I’ve ever heard of.
We ate dinner on the patio of SOCIAL HOUSE with a front seat view to the Dubai Fountain.
GET THE CHEESECAKE DESERT + imagine Tom Cruise scaling the Burj as you watch the light show!
It’s the largest mall in the world (+ i’ll also say cleanest). Can you tell I was mind blown over the cleanliness of the city yet? 🙂
There are over 1200 stores + they have every store you could think of.
Even if your not a shopper, you have to see it!
There are 2 malls! See if you can spot SKI DUBAI from the regular freeway from the slanted rooftop! We spent plenty of time at both malls!
The other one is in the same vicinity as Dubai Fountains + Burj Kahlifa!

9. Burj Kahlifa:

The Burj is the T A L L E S T building in the world. . . THE WORLD!
There’s 2 different views you can puchase/choose from.
They are both pretty incredibly breathtaking.
Both stops will take professional pictures for you if you’d like them to!
Am I scared of heights. uhhhhhhh deathly! We went all the way, to the top observation deck at 148 stories + had the best view of Dubai!

You can enjoy views from a few of the levels + then head all the way to the top to the Observation Deck!

10. Museum of Illusions:

This museum is in Al seef District! It offers interactive, immersive + fun experience for children, parents, couples, grandmothers and grandfathers – a perfect, unusual and exciting place for all generations! I think this is where Jack picked up the phrase “for real?” We learned about vision, perception, the human brain + all the science to back it up. You are able to walk around freely + stay at each exhibit however long you’d like to! I love mind riddles + found it interesting to discover why your eyes see things when your brain just cannot understand.

Few more things to note:

1. Bring a stroller, they do have complimentary golf cart shuttles that take you to the waterpark, it’s just nice to have!
2. @mydubai is a great account to look to to pull inspiration!
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FAMILY

March 6, 2019

All in a day’s work: Hot Chocolate Edition

Stop.

Hold up.
Stop scrolling!!

Only read AHEAD if you’re playing ‘HOT CHOCOLATE’ from Poler Express on Spotify! 😉

Jonah wanted to do a hot chocolate stand. I thought it sounded cold.

Jonah wanted me to make the sign. I told him I would if he would help.

I strongly believe in creating outlets to support our kids dreams, so I threw on a coat, changed my attitude + stopped saying no.

JACKET | SWEATS

Jack hogging the hand warmers ^ ^

Jonah brought the supply list to Bowman’s + took the lead on pushing the cart + gathering items!
It was pretty rainy, but we were committed and weren’t about to back down now.
They scouted the best spot on the lawn to set up + carried out the chairs, table, treats, etc.
I remember legitimately debating where to put the balloons!
I AM OLD ENOUGH TO HAVE KIDS + THEY ARE OLD ENOUGH TO CREATE A HOT CHOCOLATE STAND.

My Aunt Nyla owns gas stations in Logan + we love stopping through the drive thru made ziploc baggies of treats for people who wanted it.
They had a steady line once that after work rush hit.
Even though it was cold, this was an afternoon that I’ll never forget.
I thought they’d last a couple of hours maaaaybe? NOPE!
I had to beg them to come in after SIX HOURS!

The Whittier boys came + helped, which made it extra memorable.
The boys split the earnings. Any guesses how much they made?!

Coy works with Jon now + to be honest, they feel more like family than anything short.
We celebrated with homemade pizza + a trip to Crystal Hot Springs.
I didn’t lose my phone this time! 🙂
They begged to stay out longer every time I went to check in.
Rigg didn’t ever come in for anything but more water. Nope, not even to pee.
But once Coy + Jon came home from work, we added a clean up fee into their hot cocoa price + made them shut it down.
biggest supporter when it comes to chasing their dreams.

Here’s to saying yes to more of the little things that are easily overlooked or brushed off to a later date.
Their dreams are my dreams + together we’re becoming the best people we can be!

shop the post:

xx.

ginger

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FAMILY

February 28, 2019

SNOWSHOEING WITH BACKCOUNTRY

This post is sponsored by Backcountry.

We’ve always loved getting outside. It’s really the only way to stay sane living in Utah in the winter.
We really catered our winter #PARRISHFAMBUCKETLIST to enstill #GOATworth moments with the boys!
I love any excuse to explore our new neighborhood + so we thought it would be fun to show the boys how superheros really walk on snow.

SNOWSHOES

ZIP UP | SWEATS | SNOWSUIT

HAT | SHIRT | SNOWSUIT

Our best friends live in Mtn Green, so we journey up the Weber canyon often, but don’t verge from our main trails. We parked at Snow Basin + started walking. Jon spent a good first hour of our adventure getting all of us ready. YES, allll of us. True story, snowshoeing was one of our first dates. First snowboarding, then snowshoeing, so bringing the boys with us was kinda nostalgic + kinda a wake up call for how much we’ve changed! 🙂 He still does up my snowshoes.

JONAH’S SNOWSUIT | JONAH’S BOOTS | KIDS SNOWSHOES

Jack actually got us outdoors this time in his new backpack. He keeps telling everyone it’s from Christmas? Hahah! He’s at the funnest age + has some pretty wild stories. Did you catch my stories? We were legit laughing all weekend over Jack sitting in his carrier in the family room.

ZIP UP | SWEATS | BEANIE | CARRIER

We have been doing our carrier homework for ages. Never dared pull the trigger in fear of them not wanting to ride in it. But Jack is about the easiest baby we’ve had + as you’ve all seen, he doesn’t want to get out of it. We wanted one that would stand on the ground on it’s own + this one does. It has about every pocket you could possibly need + simple size adjustments that are marked for how big your baby is! He also managed to fall face first on the rug on Sunday + didn’t want to get up. He said “this fun” + stayed there. Easy to please this kid. Excited to hike all summer with him strapped on!

We’ve been getting snow nonstop since we got back from Cancun. It’s pretty, but good heck it’s freeeeeezing.
Getting above the wind was a good idea. I swear the second I start to plea my case for why we should move to California,
Jon knows the mountains will win me over. Between him + Jack we were going up no matter what!
Repeat after me: I AM SO GLAD WE DID!

KIDS SNOWSHOES

It’s funny how easily we can tell ourselves that these #GOATworthy moments are too much work. Because every time I gather up our stuff (in 2 minutes) and have the best afternoon outside I ask myself why we don’t take time for this simple moments more often. Making this a major priority in 2019! It fuels our soul + thanks to backcountry for the constant inspiration to live life to the fullest. We adore this company + are grateful for this partnership that has taken our simple moments to the next level.

SNOWSUIT | BOOTS

From shopping, to customer service, to product selection they are the bees knees. The best of the best. We love that they’re local. If you’re in Utah did you know you can go down to their distribution center + try on most anything before you buy it. Super rad.

JON’S SNOWSUIT | JON’S BEANIE | JACK’S SNOWSUIT | CARRIER

STOKED to share a 15% off discount code on your first order at Backcountry. Use code: GINGER
We shop here year-round + have found everything from our killer snowsuits to our camping hammocks!
There’s definitely something for everyone on that site.

Head to Backcountry for all of your outdoor gear whether it’s hiking, running, skiing, yoga, fitness, snowshoeing, climbing, travel, surf, SUP, etc – they have it all! NOT TO MENTION THEIR SWIMSUIT SELECTION. You all know I never say no to a killer unique one piece! Can’t wait!

xx.

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FAMILY

January 16, 2019

6 things to do in the winter

to keep you from going absolutely insane with your kids.

So like, anyone else ready for the sun to come back out? We’ve been in Utah for a minute + I’ve found that if we sit down as a family + throw out ideas (new or recurring) that we want to add to our #PARRISHFAMBUCKETLIST, the winter months don’t seem so draaaag. It’s frigid by 3:45 so it’s really motivating during the long winter months to have a game plan. I do not like being cold. In fact, I really hate it. But in lieu of complaining all the live long day about it, I try hard to enjoy it.

01 | SNOWBOARDING

SHOP OUR GEAR HERE

There’s NOTHING better than FRESH mountain air, summer or winter. The boys love being on the mountain + it’s amazing how happy we all our when we leave. Jon grew up on Brighton, I went to Beaver Mountain. Above the inversion if possible, because even if you’re freeezing, the photos you’ll have in the end will make you happy! Jack finally has his cast off, which has been a sigh of relief. Weekend fill up fast around the Holidays, but the older we get in our marriage, the more we are hunkering down with our family! Doesn’t have to be fancy as snowboarding. Go build a snowman + take slo-mo videos of the kids jumping over it.

02 | MOVIE NIGHT

We’ve loved our little projector this year! Buuuut, if this isn’t an option for you – – – build a fort at home, grab some yummy treats at the dollar store, your coziest blankets + enjoy a night in. Our favorite family movie is: THE GOOFY MOVIE

03 | SWIMMING

SWIMSUIT + BOOTS + BEANIES

Staycations are fun + something new for us! Always finding excuses to get out of the house. But even if you don’t want to spend the night, look up a local hotel with either an indoor pool or heated outdoor pool or hot spring! You could also head to your local rec center + let the kids get alllll their energy out. If they’re anything like our boys, they’ll soak that crap right up!

04 | BOARD GAMES

Do you have a favorite board game? We each get a new game for Christmas every year! I have fun thinking about them during the year. Jon is insaaaane good at any type of strategic thinking game + I seem to cream him in speedy card games. They take us straight back to our dating days. The boys have stepped right up to the plate + love them as much as we do! Competitive family much? Sharing a few of our favorites below. Can you guess who holds the Parrish record in Bop It? Jonah!

05 | MIDWAY ICE CASTLES

ELSA IS THAT YOU? The Ice Castles in Midway We haven’t been yet this year, it opened the night we were in Midway, but we had prior plans. but it’s on the #Parrishfambucketlist. If you’re local to Utah go check it out!!! There’s even an ice slide!

Quick story: The Ice Castle owners were on my solo flight to Dubai! I saw their sweatshirts, but was a little preoccupied at the time if you can image + didn’t really make small talk. When we were on our desert safari THEY WERE IN OUR GROUP. All the way across the world + booked the same Safari Adventure. I really need to get a Dubai blogpost up! But anyways, I was happy to have some free hands + attention to talk! Suuuch kind people + the smallest world.

06 | SLOW MOTION VIDEOS

Are my boys the only ones who live for a good slow motion video? Keeps them entertained for hours. They usually request jumping off of things + ask me to score them. But the other day we let the train station+ skate park collided for an afternoon of filming. You have to get down low + see who can make the best jumps. If you have any suggestions as to what to do with video sent it my way, I’m all ears.

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