Outdoors

Time for a picnic that doesn't involve much lugging! Mom only has two arms so Skip Hop made a combo outdoor blanket and cooler contraption in its Central Park bag ($45) that allows a parent to slip the product on their arm and tend to their tots while searching for the perfect spot to serve lunch. The company recently sent us one to try out.
Who is this product designed for? The bag is ideal for families or anyone who is outdoorsy.
Is it practical? Yes. The blanket is good size — big enough for a family of four to sit on — and the insulated bag is compact, but has space to hold sandwiches, boxed drinks, and small snacks. Wrapping the mat back up takes about a minute.
What sets it apart? It's a nice alternative to carting a cooler and bulky blanket to the park. The mat comes in handy when you need to throw something on the ground for your baby to crawl on, and the product's strap secures right to the handlebar of most strollers.
What could be better? It's a pretty straightforward product and is priced reasonably and well made so I don't think there's much to improve upon.
Would you buy it? Yes and I'd keep it in my trunk for impromptu picnics, trips to the beach, and sporting events.
Would you give it as a gift? Yes. It's a practical baby shower present and comes in two fun prints —uptown stripe and wave dot.

From kitty's perked ears listening to birdy chirps to romps in the long grass for Fido, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the great outdoors even when it's not Earth Day. My favorite activity is strolling by the ocean on warm days with my pup while he focuses on looking for sticks and not getting wet, I listen to the waves crash along Baker Beach. In honor of the 40th anniversary of the Earth Day holiday, I'd love to hear how you enjoy nature with your furry friends in the comments below!

Like many of you, I'm looking forward to hitting the road this Spring for some outdoor runs. But before you head out the door, don't forget to take safety into account. Check these items off your checklist, and you'll be good to go.

Need to Have

• Your ID. Whether you slip your driver's license into your sports bra or use a running-specific alternative, like a Road ID bracelet or an in-case-of-emergency tag, make sure you carry all your vital info.
• Sunscreen. Unless you're running at night, you should always protect yourself with sunscreen, even on cloudy days.
• Keys. Getting locked out of your house is neither fun nor very safe.

For other stuff you need to have or that's nice to have, read more

If you choose your hiking boots carefully, you can wear the same pair for years. But tracking down the perfect pair is easier said than done. I recently purchased a new pair of hikers, and they seem promising; I'll know after I break them in!

If you're gearing up for some cold-weather hikes, don't forget to bring these questions along when you head into the store.

• Will you be hiking on wet ground? If so, it's worth investing in a pair of waterproof boots; they are more expensive but essential for preventing moisture-based blisters.
• Do you need a heavy or light shoe? The heavier the boot, the tougher your hiking will be. For day hikes, a lighter boot is best, but if you're scaling inclines and/or carrying a heavy pack, you need the extra support of a heavier shoe.
• Do you need ankle support? If you are going to be hiking on steep inclines or uneven terrain, get a boot that covers the ankles, rather than a low shoe such as an approach shoe. This will help prevent injury.

Three more tips, so keep reading.