A DAY IN THE LIFE OF DAD

PLAY a day in the life of dad

Crazy Times

BY BRANDON FOREMAN

IT seems that we have all been living this life with a new set of rules that change every week, if not every day, and somehow, we are getting through it. I will be the first to say that it is not easy. Let’s step back and think about it. Some of us have not made any changes in our lives, but yet, everything has changed. Some of us have made big changes, like new homes, new cities or even new careers, but at the same time, everything around us is also changing. When I say changing, I am talking about the “new world” it seems we are in. It used to be that when we said “social,” we followed it up with the word media, not distancing. Wearing a mask was only what you did one night a year. I’m not going to recap all that has changed here. We know our lives are different, but I do want to take a minute to remind everyone that there are some things that have not changed. Our children look to us for guidance and stability, and we have to give that to them, even when our lives are constantly changing. We need to be there for them, and they need to know that with all the craziness and changes in the world, they can count on us. I don’t think there is anything wrong with worrying, fear, or being uncertain, but I do think that we need to make sure we don’t let this creep into our children’s lives. They need stability and to not have to worry about these adult problems. Our children need to be children and not grow up so fast. They should never be scared to play outside or worried about where their next meal will come from, or if they are going to have to find a new home. I say all this to remind you that, as parents, we sometimes forget that our children are watching and listening to our every move and word. So next time you get overwhelmed and get on a soapbox with your spouse or when you are driving and take that phone call and start going on about how hard things are and you don’t know what you’re going to do about the house, your job, or anything else, make sure you do not have little ones down the hall or in the car just listening in. Your children are along for the ride with you, with nothing to do but listen to what you say. Trust me, they understand a lot more than you may give them credit for. Also, know that what they don’t understand, they will fill that void or lack of understanding with something else. That is just the way our minds work, and 9 times out of 10, it is with negative thoughts. So, I leave you with this. Though we are all making adjustments and moving forward, remember it is not all bad. There are some really awesome things going on. We have businesses opening back up, people are hiring on every street, and projects are getting started again. Take some time and forget whatever it is you’re going through, and just hang out with your children. They will love it and you will, too. And remember, as my grandmother always told me, “this too shall pass.” ■ Our children look to us for guidance and stability, and we have to give that to them, even when our lives are constantly changing.

PIC OF THE MONTH

PLAY out & about

‘cause parenting is a trip Nickelodeon Universe

BLOOMINGTON, MINNESOTA

BY LINDSAY MILLER

LOCATED in the Mall of America in Bloomington, Minnesota, the Nickelodeon Universe theme park has reopened after a hiatus due to COVID-19. With some restrictions put into place, you can assure the park has your family’s safety as its top priority, and because of this, you’ll need to get your tickets as soon as possible for your next vacation. From family attractions to thrill rides, there is something for every member of the family to enjoy.

WHERE TO STAY

Stay near the Mall of America in the Radisson Blu Mall of America Hotel. The convenience of having just a short walk to the main attractions is unbeatable. Everything is in one place, and if you decide to fly, you won’t have to worry about renting a car. Just a short ride in an Uber or cab will take you right to the center of everything. The hotel features beautiful interior decorations, modern rooms, a pool, a gym, and a complimentary breakfast.

WHERE TO EAT Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.

Based on the classic comedy-drama film, Forrest Gump, the Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. is a family-friendly seafood restaurant. All meals have a home-cooked feel, just in case you’re feeling a bit homesick. If seafood isn’t your favorite, they also have a selection of burgers, steaks, and pasta. Additionally, there is a fun gift shop with Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. and Forrest Gump merchandise.

The Rainforest Cafe

If you’re looking for a fun experience while eating, you might find yourself at the Rainforest Cafe. Here, guests will find themselves completely immersed in a forest with fun, themed dishes including Rasta Pasta, the Jungle Turkey Wrap, and the Sparkling Volcano brownie dessert. On your way out, stop by the gift shop that is attached to the restaurant and filled with fun toys and games and a few fun shirts for the kids.

The FireLake Grill House & Cocktail Bar

For a more formal experience, dine in at FireLake Grill House & Cocktail Bar, located right in the Radisson Blu Mall of America Hotel. This beautiful and modern restaurant offers a menu with breakfast, lunch, and dinner options. While the lunch menu is only available Thursdays through Sundays, there is still so much to choose from on the dinner and breakfast menus.

WHAT TO DO

Visit the Nickelodeon Universe, of course! With over 20 rides and several attractions, such as blacklight mini-golf, adventure golf, and an adventure course, there is plenty of fun for everyone in the family. Nickelodeon Universe is also wonderful for guests who are on the autism spectrum, as their team members receive training on sensory awareness, motor skills, social skills, and communication. The theme park also has quiet spaces and noise-canceling headphones to accommodate you and your children.

If you have had your fill of Nickelodeon Universe, there is still plenty to explore in the Mall of America, including the SEA LIFE Aquarium. This aquarium holds a 1.3 million gallon aquarium filled with sea turtles, sharks, sawfish, stingrays, jellyfish, and seahorses. Guests will also have the chance to touch stingrays and sea urchins and feed them as well. This beautiful, educational experience is one worth taking note of.

It almost goes without saying that if you’re in the Mall of America, you know there’s plenty of stores where you can shop ‘til you drop. Featuring over 520 stores, you’ll get a day full of shopping unlike anything you’ve ever experienced before.

One final must-see is the Crayola Experience in the Mall of America. With activities pulling out the creative side of your youngster, you’ll be here all day. Attractions include the Crayon Factory Show where you’ll learn how crayons are made, Melt and Mold where you can make your own crayons in a super fun shape, and Wrap It Up! where guests will learn how their crayons are wrapped and even wrap some themselves. ■

Coordinates: 44.8547° N, 93.2420° W Distance from Baton Rouge: 1,189 miles Flying Time: 2 hours, 40 minutes Driving Time: 17 hours, 51 minutes