Melody Vander Weide

3 weeks ago | grkids.com | Melody Vander Weide

Maybe you can relate: I used to keep my house in tip-top shape. Then, kids entered the chat, and now my home sweet home is big on love – and the chaos that comes from having a growing family. Clean countertops and swept floors are right up there with lattes for me, though. Too bad I can only order the latter in the Biggby drive thru! Today, my idea of organizing is shoving everything into a closet when company is coming. And honestly, I can’t remember the last time my house was fully clean.

3 weeks ago | grkids.com | Melody Vander Weide

Hey, Michiganders!We’ve got the inside scoop on some awesome beer gardens and great hangout spots that make us so excited for warm weather and summer vibes. Heading on a road trip up north? We’ve got some must-stop spots to put on your list. 121 N Bridge St, Bellaire, MI 49615Man, this place is a vibe. Shorts Beer Garden is right across from their brewery and, on weekends, it’s buzzing. Live music, beer truck, taco truck – the works. And let me tell you, their pizza? Out of this world.

3 weeks ago | grkids.com | Melody Vander Weide

So you’ve been to John Ball Zoo and cooed over all the adorable animals – and probably dreamed about being able to get up and close personal with some of them. Now is your chance! We’re giving away a Penguin Encounter at John Ball Zoo that puts you behind the scenes with a couple of the zoo’s coolest residents. You’ll meet the penguins, talk with their keeper, and learn what it takes to care for this playful flock.

2 months ago | grkids.com | Melody Vander Weide |West Michigan

LockersThere are two different types of locker rooms at the Holland Aquatic Center. There’s a traditional single-gender men’s and women’s locker room complete with lockers, restrooms and showers. These locker rooms are connected to the 50-meter competitive pool deck and not far from the other amenities and pools. There is also a Universal Change Room on the East side of the building.

Feb 12, 2025 | grkids.com | Melody Vander Weide |West Michigan

We all know date nights are important, but sometimes leaving the house feels impossible. Maybe the kids are staging a bedtime coup. Maybe Michigan’s winter weather has turned your driveway into an Olympic luge track. Or maybe you’d rather stay home in sweatpants because people-ing is exhausting. (No judgment, we’ve been there.)The good news? Staying in doesn’t mean sacrificing fun or connection.