A mom asked an advice columnist what to do after Grandma sent an itemized invoice charging for her granddaughter’s weekend visit
Kids are expensive—there’s no way around that. But that begs the question: when they travel to visit relatives, who’s responsible for the bill? One mom reached out to an advice columnist with that exact question after her daughter’s weekend visit with Grandma resulted in a $475.50 invoice—but as you might have guessed, there’s more to the story.
The distressed mom wrote to the Washington Post‘s advice columnist, Dear Amy, with this story.
“Dear Amy: I sent a check for $300 to my mother to cover my daughter’s expenses during her visit. Upon my daughter’s return, my mother sent me an invoice for $475.50 for additional expenses, including the cost of gas to and from the airport to transport her (45 minutes away), train tickets to go to the city to a museum and the cost of the museum admission. It was an itemized bill.”
The mom added some context: “This is hurtful, as this past winter my mother came to live with us for four months and we paid for everything, including a nice vacation to an island over Christmas. (Neither of my siblings has a relationship with my mother because she is petty and doesn’t respect boundaries — like a $300 budget).”
She wrote that she wasn’t sure how to address Grandma’s stingy behavior, even adding, “We even write her a check for groceries when she hosts Thanksgiving dinner.”
“Now I feel she has taken advantage of my generosity, and I don’t trust her to spend time with my daughter because it is just too costly for me (financially and emotionally),” the mom said at the end of her letter.
Those are some relatable feelings. And considering Grandma had a free $300 to spend on her granddaughter’s visit, they’re all valid.
There are a few questions to address here. First, are parents on the hook for expenses when their kids visit extended family? That’s an issue that could vary by family—everyone’s financial situation is different. But this story has an extra sticky layer: Mom happily sent Grandma $300, which should have been more than enough for a fun-filled weekend. But Grandma didn’t stick to that budget—in fact, she more than doubled it and just expected her daughter to fork over the extra cash.
Amy’s advice to the letter writer was (sigh) that she was going to have to take things up directly with her mom.
“Is your mother financially insecure? Is she worried about maintaining her own lifestyle in retirement? These are legitimate concerns,” she wrote. “But is there a legitimate reason she couldn’t stay within the reasonable $300 budget, spending over twice that amount? Is this itemized bill her passive-aggressive way of telling you that she doesn’t actually want to host your daughter for such a long visit?”
Amy continued with some more good advice: use this situation to think about the future and set some boundaries so Grandma can’t do something like this again.
“After you communicate your questions and concerns to your mother, you will have to make the tough decision about future visits,” she wrote. “Because your mother seems to communicate through monetizing relationships, you’ll simply have to decide whether this relationship between grandmother and granddaughter is one you can afford to foster.”
It’s always exciting having grandparents in town for a visit. Here are our 9 favorite activities that are ideal for an all-ages group
There is something incredibly special about showing off the city you love, to the people you love—especially grandparents. Whether your kids call them Nana, Grandpa, Grammy, Poppa, Abuelita, or another loving and popular nickname, grandparents have a special connection with their grandkids—so much so, science has proven that grandparents feel closer to their grandkids than their own kids. And of course you want to give them the backdrop to make connections and have a great time.
As with any aging relative, you also want to keep their physical limits and energy in mind, while also making a personal connection to this amazing city—you know, balance the tourist attractions with lesser known local spots—making it more than just a vacation but a glimpse into your daily life. Even with its steep hills and winding streets the Bay Area is accessible for everyone. This list keeps the mobility needs for visiting family in mind while also providing inspiration for quality family time everyone will cherish. From boat tours and children’s theater shows to one-of-a-kind hotel stays, redwoods, and high tea, everyone in your family will find something to love about the next grandparents’ visit to the Bay Area and the memories that will last a lifetime.
The Best Activities in San Francisco for Visiting Grandparents
Sarah Montoya
1. Visit the Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco
Located along the Lands End Trail the Legion of Honor is one of the most beautiful places to visit in San Francisco. The architecture alone is enough to make it worth a visit, add in a lovely cafe and you have the perfect place to show grandparents the arts in San Francisco. The museum regularly hosts world class exhibits to inspire all ages. Just a short walk from the museum is a unique view of the Gold Gate bridge. Learn more about what else you can see and do at Lands End.
Accessibility Information: The museum itself is fully accessible and easy to navigate for persons with mobility concerns. However, the parking lot can be a bit rocky in places and steep in others; however, handicap parking is available at the entrance. For family members without a placard please consider dropping them off at the entrance. There is not a push button but there is an intercom at the north entrance to call security for assistance.
2. Visit the de Young in Golden Gate Park
The de Young is located in Golden Gate Park. The museum itself is wonderful, it has art from all over the world and centuries past, but if you are on a budget it’s the perfect space to picnic in the sculpture garden or head to the observation tower for a view of Golden Gate Park. Both the sculpture garden and viewing tower are free. During your visit check out all the Golden Gate Park has to offer.
Accessibility Information: The museum is fully wheelchair accessible, as are the sculpture garden and viewing tower. The parking garage beneath the music concourse in Golden Gate Park has elevators. Handicap parking along the main road with a relatively flat walk to the museum. If you are traveling via public transit there is a stop directly in front of the museum. Golden Gate Park has closed JFK to cars but continues to run a shuttle through the park to ensure that everyone can enjoy the park.
Additional Museums to Consider Visiting with Grandparents: The SFMOMA, The Asian Art Museum, and the Contemporary Jewish Museum are all located downtown with paid parking lots close by and are all fully wheelchair accessible. Each one is also located along major Muni stops for families using public transit.
3. Book a Tea Party at Love Joys
It feels almost universal that kids and grownups love tea parties.Love Joy’s lovely neighborhood spot tucked away in Noe Valley is a beautiful way to experience a local neighborhood and enjoy the magic of tea time. They offer two options for full service tea and a cozy casual environment that is welcoming for all ages.
Accessibility Information: Conveniently located along the J line, visitors can take a historic trolley car directly to the front door. Parking is metered with reserved handicap parking on the block. The staff is happy to offer assistance and accommodate any needs especially if you call ahead.
Sarah Montoya
4. Step Back in Time at the Filoli Historic House & Garden
Built as a private residence in 1917, Filoli sits on 654 acres of land along California’s coastal range. The home is open for tours year round and the 16 acres of English Renaissance gardens are perfect for a slow stroll. Considered one of the finest country estates of the 20th century, Filoli is sure to be a memorable experience.
Accessibility Information: Reserved parking for ADA placards with a loading ramp are available at the entrance. The staff will guide you to the ramp entrance to the house through the Clock Tower Shop Courtyard. Due to Filoli’s historic structure, wheelchairs may need to traverse bricks, gravel, grass, and other uneven surfaces.
Stanford Park Hotel
5. Have the Ultimate Sleepover at Stanford Park Hotel with Their American Girl Package
The Stanford Park Hotel in Menlo Park hosts the perfect sleepover with an optional one-of-a-kind add-on called, The American Girl Package. The customizable experience includes an American Girl bed, bathrobe and slippers upon arrival, along with a welcome note. At night, enjoy freshly baked chocolate chip cookies and milk brought to the room before heading off to Stanford Shopping Center the following day for a special experience at the local American Girl store. Activities rotate throughout the weekend and include Pet Pampering Day, Doll Hair & Manicure Day, Sweet & Savory Treats, and more.
Accessibility Information: Both the hotel and the Stanford Shopping Center are fully accessible properties with ADA parking options and trained staff to support accessibility needs. The Stanford Park Hotel pool and hot tub are fully accessible along with all other amenities.
6. Hike The Redwoods at Muir Woods National Monument
California Redwoods are world famous and always worth the visit. Muir Woods offers up a beautiful range of trails with varying levels of difficulty. Use the NPS app to plan your visit. Grandparents can join their grandkids in the feeling of accomplishment while helping kids ages 5-12 earn their Junior Ranger badges. Muir Woods has a reservation to manage parking and visitor traffic, so best to plan your trip well in advance.
Accessibility Information: Muir Woods National Monument has ADA parking available and segments of accessible trails. Brochures and trail maps are available in braille, and assistive listening devices are available upon request.
Sarah Montoya
7. Enjoy a Show at the Bay Area Children’s Theater
With kid focused productions of children’s classics that many grandparents will recognize, Bay Area Childrens’ Theater is the perfect way to introduce kids to the theater while also entertaining grandparents. Whether you catch a show at their Oakland location, Fort Mason in San Francisco or a show in Berkley you can find a performance close to you in the Bay.
Accessibility Information: The Bay Area Children’s theater is dedicated to accessibility and works with all of their venues to ensure that the experience is accessible to all audience members. BACT also offers shows with accommodations for blind and visually impaired audiences and ASL interpreters at select shows.
8. Take a Tour of San Francisco with the Big Bus Tour
With so much to see and do in San Francisco, seeing the city can feel overwhelming. Let the Big Bus Tour do the work for you—check off your tourist bucket list as you hop on and off the bus at.
Accessibility Information: Big Bus Tours have accessible buses with wheelchair lifts; however, not all of the buses are able to accommodate wheelchairs. Please contact the company 48 hours prior to your tour.
9. Go on a Blue and Gold Boat Tour
What’s a trip to the Bay Area without time on the water? The Blue and Gold Boat Tour offers a variety of tours allowing you to see the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, Angel Island, and Sausalito. Enjoy the sunset or simply get from one pier to another while enjoying the melody of the waves.
Accessibility Information: The fleet vessels vary in age and design. All vessels are wheelchair accessible and have accessible restrooms. Wheelchairs can only access the main deck which houses the bar, the restrooms and wide open interior deck and viewing spaces. The upper decks can only be accessed by stairs thus wheelchairs cannot access the upper exterior decks.
Grab your hats, gloves, and boots. It’s time to go snow tubing
When you think about snow, Atlanta usually isn’t the first place that comes to mind. But we’d all love a little fun in the snow this winter. Whizzing down a snow-covered hill on a bouncy snow tube (or even on skis) makes for some incredible cold-weather memories. So get ready to bundle up in your best winter gear and head to the most fantastic snow tubing spots in the Southeast. The best part? You won’t have to drive too far to find all the snow tubing excitement your kids can handle.
Be transported to a wintry vacation state of mind on the Parrot Mountain slide. One of the longest and steepest snow tube hills in North America it measures 575-feet-long and 8-stories high. Snow tubing, ice skating, a snow play area for snowball fights and snow angels, fire pits and s'mores, and carnival rides transform this lakefront paradise into a winter wonderland every year.
Grab a tube, ride the Magic Carpet lift to the top, then hop on your tube and laugh or scream all the way down. Riders must be 42 inches tall and four years old to ride. For little ones, a snow play area will keep them entertained for hours. When Mother Nature doesn't provide the snow, the snow-making equipment ensures enough to have a great time. Wear warm clothes—your toes and fingers get cold fast.
Your entire family will enjoy this 500-foot run with a vertical drop of 60 feet. Fill out a waiver and buy your tickets at the Sapphire Valley Community Center before you arrive. One rider per tube, and young and old alike can ride for 1.75-hour sessions.
Located in Maggie Valley across from Ghost Town in the Sky (not in the ski area), Tube World is the home of awesome snow tubing fun each winter. The groomed slope is perfect for specially designed inner tubes. You'll ride the moving carpet lift to the top of the hill, then tube your way down the snow-covered run.
Before Thanksgiving and through the end of March, your crew can enjoy all the snow tubing fun in Gatlinburg. The Tubing Hill is 350 feet long with a 50-foot drop. Kids ages 3–5 must ride with an adult, and children ages two and under cannot go tubing. You must be at least six years old and 42″ tall to ride on your own. Cubbies Snow Zone is the perfect place for small children to play in the snow.
Grab your family and friends and get ready to get rowdy on Tennessee's largest snow tubing hill. The snow-covered tubing lanes are over 500 feet long with a 70-foot drop, and they are covered in real snow. Head to the top of the hill and check out some of the best views of the Smoky Mountains before you slide down.
Don't bother bundling up for this indoor snow tubing experience since it's always nice and warm inside. Hot or cold, rain or shine, Pigeon Forge Snow stays open year-round, and the real snow never melts. They've got fun for all ages, from little ones to teens to parents and grandparents. Everyone can race down the slopes, build snowmen and snow forts in the giant snow play area, and have all kinds of wintry excitement.
Holiday parties are a great way to create lasting memories with the ones you cherish most, but for party throwers taking on the role of host, these festive get-togethers can cause a great deal of stress. From creating the perfect meal to keeping guests entertained, hosting involves many moving parts.
To help you throw a memorable gathering that involves careful planning and preparation, we’ve turned to the experts at Smithfield Foods. Keep reading to learn five easy tricks that’ll turn your stress levels down a notch and help you have fun along the way.
1. Plan Your Menu Ahead of Time
To save yourself from the last-minute stressor of an overwhelmingly crowded grocery store with limited stock, create a dinner menu several weeks in advance. This not only allows you to find the ingredients you need but also helps you develop a cooking timeline for the big day. Plus, you’ll also be able to spend less time in the kitchen and more time mingling with loved ones.
After a long day of cooking and entertaining, the last thing you want to do is spend hours cleaning up. To help you quickly spruce up your home without having to sacrifice well-needed downtime, it’s best to opt for disposable plates, utensils, napkins and cups. At the end of the night, you won’t have to face a sink piled high with dishes and can focus your time cleaning other areas.
A buffet-style food station also goes hand-in-hand with recyclable serveware. Your family and friends can help themselves as they please throughout the gathering, so you don’t have to plate every serving. Don’t forget about the power of light decorations! By placing inexpensive decor, such as candles, candy canes, ornaments, and coasters in key areas where food and drinks will be served, you can give each space a pop of festive fun.
3. Have Drinks & Appetizers Ready for When Guests Arrive
When hosting a large gathering, it’s important to remember that your entire table spread does not have to be ready prior to your guests' arrival. To keep guests occupied (and out of the kitchen), set pre-made, festive cocktails and eye-catching appetizers around your dining areas. This will keep your guests’ hunger at bay and get the party going.
For some simple appetizer inspiration, look to these adorable Eckrich cheddar dog wreath tartlets. They’re sharable, easy to make and can get your kiddos involved for some extra helping hands.
4. Set the Mood with Festive Tunes
Music is a must no matter the get-together you’re hosting. Creating a holiday-inspired playlist with your favorite songs can be also be a fun way to get guests involved- reach out to your guests several days prior and ask them to add their seasonal favorites into the mix. If you'd prefer to take one thing off your plate, select an already-created playlist from YouTube, Spotify or iTunes.
Hot tip: instrumental versions of holiday classics are a big hit that won’t distract from conversations and can help set a comforting and cheery ambiance.
5. Purchase Compostable Containers for Leftovers
Before your Yuletide celebration concludes, be sure to set aside compostable food containers for your guests. This allows them to feel comfortable to take home their favorite goodies and helps reduce the potential for food waste. If only a few guests choose to take home lunch for the next day, don’t fret. There are many tasty ways to recreate remaining dishes into new meals that your children will love throughout the rest of the week.
In need of more inspiration for your next family meal? Smithfield Foods’ large portfolio of products, including Smithfield® Bacon, Nathan’s Famous® Beef Franks and Eckrich® Smoked Sausage, can meet your household’s needs for breakfast, lunch, dinner and even snack time.
A holiday dinner isn’t complete without a satisfying side of stuffing. To add a Southern spin on classic stuffing, we recommend trying out this delicious Smoked Sausage Cornbread Stuffing recipe featuring Eckrich® Smoked Sausage, apples and cornbread. This unique stuffing mixture packs in both amazing flavor and texture.
Check out the recipe from Eckrich® below to create this tasty dish.
Total Time
Skill Level
Servings
1 hr 35 minutes
Intermediate
12
Ingredients
Pkgs. Eckrich Smoked Sausage, diced
28 oz.
Unsalted butter
1/2 cup(s)
Large sweet onions, finely chopped
2 whole
Stalks celery, trimmed and finely chopped
6
Large red apples, cored and finely chopped
2 whole
Chopped fresh sage leaves
2 Tbsp.
Fresh thyme leaves
1 Tsp.
Large eggs
6
Pkg. stuffing mix
14 oz.
Loaf of prepared cornbread (homemade or store-bought)
Preheat oven to 350°F. Light coat two 3-quart baking dishes with butter or oil.
Melt butter in a large, heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Add sausage, onion, celery, and cook, stirring frequently, until vegetables are soft, about 5 minutes. Add apples, sage and thyme and continue cooking for 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Whisk eggs in a large mixing bowl. Stir in contents of skillet, stuffing mix, and chicken broth. Crumble cornbread into bowl and stir in pepper and salt until well combined. Transfer mixture to prepared baking dishes. Do ahead: The dressing can be prepared up 24 hours in advance, just cover and refrigerate. Bring to room temperature before baking.
Bake dressing uncovered for 75 minutes, until top is golden-brown and the center is set.
Tips to Stretch Your Dollar
Switch up your leftovers routine this holiday season by turning your remaining stuffing into tasty, bite-sized egg muffins. Easy to make and a great option for breakfast or brunch the next morning, these muffins only require stuffing, eggs and your choice of mix-ins (think: spinach, mushrooms, cheese or ham).
Preheat the oven to 375°F, grease a muffin tin with butter, then whisk together six eggs and two tablespoons of milk. Stir in your leftover stuffing and toppings then bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until golden brown.
In need of more inspiration for your next family meal? Smithfield Foods’ large portfolio of products, including Smithfield® Bacon, Nathan’s Famous® Beef Franks and Eckrich® Smoked Sausage, can meet your household’s needs for breakfast, lunch, dinner and even snack time.
Sorry, kiddos, this special pie is for moms and dads only. With an impressive combination of flavors that are delicately sweet, buttery and salty, this tasty Bourbon bacon pecan pie is sure to wow your dinner guests—and your tastebuds.
Check out the recipe from Smithfield® below to get started.
Whisk together the butter, eggs, brown sugar, corn syrup and bourbon.
Chop two cups of the pecans.
With a fork, prick the crust in several places.
Place the chopped pecans in the pie shell and lightly press so that they don’t float up too much after adding the batter.
Cover the chopped pecans with the batter, then arrange the remaining whole pecan halves in concentric circles around the pie, working from the outer edge toward the middle.
Bake the pie for about 40 minutes, or until the filling is just set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
If the pecans or crust are starting to get too brown before the pie is done, cover loosely with foil.
Remove the pie from the oven, sprinkle the candied bacon on top and allow to cool completely at room temperature.
Serve when cooled, top with whipped cream if desired
Tips to Stretch Your Dollar
If you have any leftover bacon, be sure to store it in a container for breakfast the next day! Whether you add the bacon to an omelet or serve the simple-yet-classic bacon and eggs, your kids are sure to love the rich flavor of Smithfield’s maple bacon.
In need of more inspiration for your next family meal? Smithfield Foods’ large portfolio of products, including Smithfield® Bacon, Nathan’s Famous® Beef Franks and Eckrich® Smoked Sausage, can meet your household’s needs for breakfast, lunch, dinner and even snack time.
Take your tastebuds on a tour through Italy this holiday season. With this impressive arancini recipe—featuring crispy, fried Arborio rice balls stuffed to the brim with savory Carando Toscano ground sausage, portobello mushrooms and mozzarella cheese in a zesty tomato confit—your guests will be asking for the secret ingredient.
Check out the recipe from Carando below so you can create the perfect appetizer for your next holiday dinner.
Add one tablespoon of the extra virgin olive oil, shallots, and garlic, sautéing until translucent.
Add the rice and sauté until translucent.
Add 1/4 of the chicken stock, stirring constantly until it is absorbed.
Continue to add the stock,1/4 at a time, stirring constantly, until all of it is absorbed and the rice is tender.
Transfer the rice to a sheet pan, spread it out in a thin layer, and allow to cool.
While the rice is cooking, brown the sausage in a large skillet.
Add the mushrooms and cook until all of the water is released and evaporated.
Drain the mixture and allow to cool completely.
Pulse the sausage and mushroom mixture in the bowl of a food processor until just chunky, then add the mozzarella and pulse a few times to just incorporate. Reserve.
While the rice is cooling, heat a heavy sauce pot over medium-high heat.
Add the remaining extra virgin olive oil and when it begins to shimmer, add the onions, stirring occasionally.
When the onions are just before burnt, remove them with a slotted spoon. Discard onions and add tomatoes to the pot, stirring often to break up the tomatoes.
Once the confit is at desired consistency, remove from the heat and add the zest. Reserve.
Tips to Stretch Your Dollar
If you find yourself with any leftover Carando Tuscan ground sausage, add a nice kick to your holiday stuffing, or save it for the following morning and make a tasty breakfast burrito. Add in cheese, scrambled eggs, spinach, mushrooms and any other fillings of your choice for a fully-loaded meal to kickstart your day.
In need of more inspiration for your next family meal? Smithfield Foods’ large portfolio of products, including Smithfield® Bacon, Nathan’s Famous® Beef Franks, Eckrich® Smoked Sausage and Carando Toscano Ground Sausage, can meet your household’s needs for breakfast, lunch, dinner and even snack time.
Creating a well-balanced and delicious holiday dinner menu can be challenging. Toss in purchasing your necessary ingredients plus actually making your festive table spread and you have an even more time-consuming task ahead. With this one-ingredient Hickory Smoked Spiral Sliced Ham recipe, you can cut down on your preparation time and still serve up a memorable meal. Just the trick you needed.
Check out the recipe from Smithfield® below to see how you can make this the star of your dinner table.
Total Time
Skill Level
Servings
2 hr 40 mins
Beginner
Varies
Ingredients
Smithfield Spirals Hickory Smoked Spiral Sliced Ham
Remove all packaging from the ham, including glaze packet, and place face down in a large roasting pan.
Add 1/2 inch of water to the bottom of the pan, then cover the pan tightly with aluminum foil.
Cook the ham for 14-16 minutes per pound, or until an internal temperature of 120 degrees. Total cook time will vary by weight.
Remove the ham from the oven and allow to rest for about 10 minutes before serving, or glazing, if desired.
Massage the packet to gently blend the glaze. Cut one corner off the glaze packet and squeeze glaze evenly over the top of ham. If desired, use a knife or brush to spread glaze between slices. Allow glaze to melt into the ham before serving.
Tips to Stretch Your Dollar
To help cut down on food waste—and make use of any remaining ham in your fridge—you can create your own rendition of a turkey gobbler. Simply substitute turkey with slices of your hickory smoked ham and layer in your remaining glaze sauce, cranberry sauce and your choice of cheese. Enjoy!
In need of more inspiration for your next family meal? Smithfield Foods’ large portfolio of products, including Smithfield® Bacon, Nathan’s Famous® Beef Franks and Eckrich® Smoked Sausage, can meet your household’s needs for breakfast, lunch, dinner and even snack time.
Winter is coming, which means we’re daydreaming about chairlift rides and carving lines. If you’re hoping to get your kiddos excited about powder days and ski slopes, we’ve rounded up the best skiing lessons in and around Seattle to help get your kids comfortable on their boards and sticks. Before long, your little skier will be yelling, “Pizza pie and French fries!” and bombing down the hill. You better get ready to keep up! Read on…these lessons are filling up fast!
Kathryn Mueller
Summit at Snoqualmie
Meet the Mountain The Summit at Snoqualmie offers a variety of skiing lessons for every age and ability, and great terrain for beginners and experts alike. Easily reached by traveling up I-90 through Snoqualmie Pass, you won’t miss the sprawling slopes. Summit at Snoqualmie is the closest ski area to Seattle, only about 45 minutes if you hit good traffic. It’s a perfect place to get some practices, and when tantrums inevitably hit, the car ride home won’t be too long. There are four different ski areas, all with a different tagline and thousands of skiable acres to explore. Summit West is the place to learn. Summit Central has something for everyone. Summit East is a fun playground ready to be discovered. And “when you’re ready” for a challenge, hop on over to Alpental.
Ski School Scoop Winter programs for your little shredders sell out fast, but the good news is spring is just around the corner. Spring ski season offers great conditions to learn how to ski and snowboard and also gives little fingers and toes a bit of a reprieve from the chilly, wet weather. The snowpack is also at its highest, so falls can be like landing on a snowy pillow. It’s a great way to minimize meltdowns–fingers crossed.
Multi-week skiing lessons are open now for registration. If your little ones are just starting out, we got an inside tip to book Thunderbirds (ages 4-6) in March or Central6 for spring. The four-week sessions for Thunderbirds occur on Saturday and Sunday, and Spring Central6 is a six-week program filling up for the end for February. Just remember, for multi-week lessons, you will need a pass or ticket, as those aren’t included in the lesson price. Plus, students must provide their own gear, or rent gear, and purchase a lift ticket or season pass.
Insider tip: If you plan to rent equipment, Summit recommends renting take home rentals and bringing them back for multi-week lessons. It will save you from standing in rental lines and losing precious minutes on the slopes.
Daily Lessons Daily beginner lessons are tailored to meet your family’s unique needs and are offered to kiddos 4 & up. Booking is available online. Lessons are available at Summit Central and Summit West. Reservations are required, and they are in high demand and may sell out fast. We’re sensing a theme–book early! It’s a pretty popular place, especially on the weekends, so don’t fret about braving the crowds. Even if you can't get into a lesson, they have ample places to ride the magic carpets. It's a great way to learn!
Insider tip: Remember to reserve online or over the phone before loading the skis on the rack. Reservations must be made at least 48 hours before the lesson date and time. Weekends and holiday book-up early, so sign up in advance!
West Kids Club and Central Kids Corral Days: Daily, 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Tickets: $199/per person
While you’re there, check out snow tubing. All the equipment is provided for a slipping and sliding good time. You’ll definitely want to bring your snow pants, jackets and gloves though! But if you happen to forget something, they have retail shops you can peruse.
COVID Info: Masks are required in all indoor facilities. Social distancing is also recommended.
Meet the Mountain Get ready to learn to ski at one of the most majestic resorts in Washington. With expansive views of Mt. Rainier, kiddos will be awed. Starting on Thanksgiving Day and running through mid-March, Crystal Mountain offers skiing lessons for all ages and abilities, starting as young as 4 years old. Daily youth lessons, for kids ages 4-12, provide an opportunity for young skiers and riders to gain confidence on the slopes as well as make memories that will last a lifetime. Taught by passionate and experienced coaches, half-day and full-day lessons are available.
Ski School Scoop Your little skier and snowboarder will learn at a designated area at the base of the mountain, and their indoor meeting area helps keep kids active and engaged when they are not out on the snow. Younger children are typically grouped in groups of three. The littlest future Olympians need more hands-on support as they get used to their boots and boards, but class sizes for older kids, who are likely more experienced, are larger. For the full-day classes, lunch is included—so don’t worry about packing that PB&J. Kids also get hot cocoa. Yum! Parents can check their kids in 30 minutes before the resort opens (8:30 a.m. on weekdays and 8 a.m. on weekends.), so get there early! Plan to pick up your kids between 3 p.m. and 4 p.m., after your day of solo schussing. Don’t be surprised if they don’t want to leave—your kiddos will be having too much fun!
Insider tip: Gear rentals are available for all ages as well, so don’t worry if you don’t have tiny boots, bindings and skis. Crystal Mountain takes the hassle out of all your equipment needs.
Good to know: Multi-week lessons are no longer available for skiers, but programs for snowboarders are. Cost starts at $499/per person.
Group Lessons Hours: Half-day lessons, 10 a.m.-noon & 1-3 p.m.; Full-day lessons, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Cost: $175/child for half-day; $225/child for full-day
There are also lots of fun activities to enjoy after class. If you’re looking to kick off your boots and enjoy the scenic views, don’t miss out on the gondola. And dinner at 6,800 feet (with a killer view) is always a hit. Grab a bite at Summit House, Washington’s highest elevation restaurant at the top.
COVID Info: Masks are required indoors for all guests, regardless of vaccination status. Masks must meet CDC guidelines—no single layer buffs or perforated masks. Masks are recommended in outdoor areas such as lift lines, walkways and the base area, but are not required.
Ski School Scoop The KOMO Kids Program is a longstanding tradition at Mt. Baker. Geared toward kids ages 7-15 years old, the ski program is split into four-week sessions, and kiddos ages 4 and up are divided into groups by ages and abilities. To asses your ability, Mt. Baker has a handy ability guideline so you can find the right lesson that's right for you and your family. The sessions are fun and focused on safety and learning.
KOMO Kids Program Dates: Jan. & Feb. Days & Hours: Sat. & Sun., 9-11 a.m. Cost: $145/per child
Daily Lessons Private daily lessons ($225/per person) are also available, which is great for one-on-one instruction. These lessons are for kiddos ages 7 and up at last about two hours. Your kiddos will get to try their skills on the beginner terrain and tow their way along to hone their ski and snowboard skills—hold on tight! Reservations are strongly encouraged, as walk-in lessons have limited availability.
Insider tip: There are lots of great lodging options nearby the mountain, but parking is very limited. If you’re hoping to get a prime parking spot, get to the mountain early, or come for an afternoon ski session. Weekdays are much quieter than weekends, so plan accordingly.
COVID Info: Facial coverings are required for everyone when indoors, regardless of vaccination status, unless actively eating or drinking. They're also strongly recommended outside, when physical distancing isn’t possible.
If slipping and sliding in the snow and frosty fingers and toes don’t sound like an ideal place to learn to ski, head on over to Bellevue. Mini Mountain isn’t like the other resorts included here. For starters, it's indoors. They have three rotating carpets that can help little skiers get comfortable on skis, load and unload from a chairlift and have fun, all while learning from instructors with more than 30 years of experience. No need to bring anything, which makes getting out the door super easy. The indoor facility helps set kids up for success so when they finally make it to the snowy peaks and majestic slopes, they are ready to go. Mini Mountain has a boot fitting area, lounge and an area for gear rental. An added bonus, parents can relax on comfy leather couches and watch as kiddos perfect their pizza pie.
Lessons The great news about Mini Mountain is that you don’t need snow to learn how to ski—you can practice year-round, and many people do! Weekend lessons are currently booked out through January, but they have lessons throughout the week. Each lesson is about 20 minutes long, and kiddos get one-on-one attention from an instructor. They are able to teach kiddos starting from when they start to walk, but most children who enroll in lessons are 2 and up. Signing up for classes is a breeze. Simply call or register online. No need to worry about brining anything easier—everything is provided. Just sit back and imagine hauling down a mountain with your little one in tow.
Meet the Mountain Whistler Blackcomb, located in Whistler British, Columbia, is a majestic winter wonderland. With areas specifically designed for families, Whistler Kids Snow School offers an incredible atmosphere for your Littles to learn to ski or snowboard. And the snow school is just one of many family-friendly adventures you can embark on while visiting the mountain. From outdoor ice skating to tubing, there are plenty of other things to do that will bring a smile to your kiddos’ faces. Plus, there are hundreds of shops and dining options—more than 150 restaurants catering to all tastes and appetites, and 200 shops that will delight your inner window-shopper. If you needed more reasons to book your next family vacation to Whistler, they also offer camps, childcare and babysitting services. So, if you need a little time away after a long day on the slopes, your little adventurers are in good hands.
In between ski lessons and epic après ski adventures, check out the Magic Castle on Blackcomb, the Tree Fort on Whistler and the Enchanted Forest. These play areas are great for families of little ones, and a perfect excuse to kick off your skis and explore the magical outdoor playgrounds. The Magic Castle is located on Blackcomb Mountain in the Children's Adventure Park. The Tree Fort is located on Whistler Mountain, near the Big Red Express chairlift.
Ski School Scoop If you’re looking for weekday, multi-day ski lessons, Whistler Kids Adventure Camp is a great option for your youngest little skiers and snowboarders, from 3 years old to 12 years old. Kids get to learn from the same instructor throughout the duration of the camp, and they will also make lots of friends in a program packed with events, themes and activities. The camp also includes a hot lunch and snacks. Kids will ski for a full five days with instructions, starting at 9 a.m. and ending at 3:15 p.m. Plan to drop them off between 8:30 and 8:45 a.m. and picking them between 3 and 3:15 p.m.—plenty of time for you to get in more than a few sweet runs on the mountain!
Where:Skiers Plaza, Whistler Village Cost: $1,255/child
Daily Lessons If you’re looking for less of a commitment than a week-long camp, Whistler offers teen group ski and snowboard lessons, child group ski and snowboard lessons and private lessons for families and children, which can all be booked in advance. Group lessons are a full-day excursion, meaning you’ll have lots of time on the mountain and ski runs. Private half-day lessons are also available. As spaces are limited, Whistler recommends booking well in advance to ensure you don’t miss out. By booking in advance, you’ll also get all the paperwork out of the way which will save you time at drop-off. Don’t forget to bring a helmet and also lots of layers. Nothing ruins a fun day on the slopes like cold fingers and toes.
Good to know: Children ages 6 & under ski for free. Tickets can be collected from a conveniently located ticket window in the village.
Insider tip: If you’re planning on renting equipment, Whistler Blackcomb makes it incredibly convenient. They even have complimentary delivery! If you want to make getting out the door a breeze, it’s recommended that you pick up equipment the day before. That way you won’t have to rush the first day of ski school.
More Whistler Magic If you’re looking for something to get your heart racing, look no further than Blackcomb Mountain’s bubly™ Tube Park. No equipment is required, but you may need to be a bit brave and ready for an exhilarating rush. It's open weekends and holidays from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. and from 11 a.m.-6 p.m. on week days.
COVID Info: Face coverings are required in indoor settings including restaurants, lodging properties, restrooms, retail and rental locations. Face coverings will not be required outdoors but are required in gondolas.
Meet the Mountain Mission Ridge is located only about 12 miles outside of Wenatchee. It’s a great mountain for family skiing, and you’re likely to get lots of blue bird days—it boasts 300 sunshiny days a year, so pack your shades. The direr, higher and east-sidier (it’s on the eastern slope of the Cascades) destination means your family will enjoy light, dry powder when you’re bombing down the mountain. With more than 36 designated runs spread over 2,000 beautiful acres of skiable terrain, we can’t wait to book our trip!
Ski School Scoop Mission Ridge offers lots of different lessons for kids of all ages and abilities, but reserve your spot soon because space is filling up fast. Most of the multi-week lessons are already full, but here's the inside scoop to get in: call them today and get on a waitlist. If your little one is a snowboarder, there is still space. The Flyers programs are a great option for kiddos just starting out in the sport. The program is tailored towards the littlest skiers (ages 3-5) and snowboarders (ages 4-6) and the package includes lessons, lift tickets and rentals. What a deal! Your child gets paired with a youth instructor and gets a personalized one-on-one experience.
Mission Ridge also offers Kids Lessons for children ages 6-12. These lessons are a great way to introduce children to skiing and snowboarding. Kiddos will be grouped with other children of the same ability and age, so they’ll learn to ride and also make friends along the way.
For older kids who have more experience and are interested in becoming instructors, Mission Ridge offers a program called Cadets. It’s a unique offering that lets teenagers 13-15 improve their skills while learning to teach. The multi-week program prepares students to pass a Level 1 instructor certification and goes from December through March.
Kids Lessons Cost: $79 for lessons only; $119 for lessons, lift ticket & rental gear
Cadets Cost: $554/per person; includes season pass Dates: Sat. & Sun., from Dec. 11-Mar. 13
Insider tip: You won't find this online, but another awesome kid's program is the Night Bombers. The class will be offered for kiddos ages 6-12 and will open on their website shortly. The classes will have a ratio of five students to one coach, and skiers and snowboarders will be grouped by age and ability. Kids will be able to make friends and have fun exploring the mountain at night. More details will be coming soon.
Meet the Mountain About two hours from Seattle, Stevens Pass can be accessed through the beautiful and winding Cascade Loop Scenic Byway. Perched at the top of sweeping mountain views, right off the highway, Steven’s Pass is a winter wonderland for skiers and snowboarders alike. It offers 1,125 acres of diverse skiable terrain. Children of all ages and abilities have learned to ski there for decades, which is one of the reasons the mountain is so popular. Kids can enroll in both full- and half-day ski and snowboard lessons. Group lessons are small and offer a chance for kids to get comfortable on their skis and boards. Before too long, they’ll be cruising along–probably faster than you!
There are also lots of family activities in and around the resort. Bring a sled and explore the free family sledding hill and snow play area at the Steven’s Pass Nordic Center, located just five miles from the resort. Other activities including cross country skiing, skating and snowshoeing are also just minutes away. And if skiing at night sounds like a good time, don’t miss out on adventures after dark skiing with the family.
Ski School Scoop The group lessons are a great opportunity for children to engage in small groups with an instructor specifically trained to teach little ones, toddler temper tantrums and all. Group lessons are capped at a maximum of three to six participants, depending on the age group. Half-days are only available for the littlest skiers and snowboarders, and for those enrolled in the full-day group lessons (think: older kiddos) lunch is included. Stevens Pass recommends reserving ski and snowboard lessons in advance by booking through their website. You can also purchase a three-pack if you want to ensure you get your kiddos up at least a few times this year.
If you’re hoping to experience the mountain on quieter days, be sure to visit mid-week. Arriving early, before 9 a.m. also helps ensure parking is available and kiddos get to their lesson on time. Renting equipment ahead of time will also help alleviate some stress and keep you from waiting in lines. Morning check-in will be much smoother if your equipment is ready to go and sized correctly ahead of time.
Insider tip: Lift tickets are complimentary for kiddos ages 3–6.
Good to know: If private lessons ($539/per person for full-day) sound like a better fit for you and your family, this personalized approach to learning is also available. Included in private lessons is an expert instructor and also a nice perk of not waiting in lines. Yes, please!
Three-Pack Three Maximum Cost: $465/child (ages 3 &4); $555/child (ages 5 & 6); $585/child (ages 7-14)
Group Lessons Ages 3 & 4 Days & Times: Daily, Half-day, 9:30 a.m.-noon or 1-3:30 p.m. Cost: $149/child, mid-week; $169/child, weekends and holidays
Group Lessons Ages 5 & 6 Days & Times: Daily, Half-day from 9:30 a.m.-noon or 1-3:30 p.m.; Full-day from 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Cost: $149/child, mid-week; $169/child, weekends and holidays; $189/child, full-day mid-week; $209/child, full-day weekends and holidays
Group Lessons Ages 7-14 Days & Times: Daily, Half-day, 9:30 a.m.-noon or 1-3:30 p.m.; Full-day, 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Cost: $139/child, mid-week; $159/child, weekend; $179/child, full-day mid-week; $199/child, full-day weekends and holidays
COVID Info: All tickets, passes, lessons and services must be purchased online and masks are required in all indoor facilities. They're not required outdoors but are recommended in lift lines.
Summit Stevens Pass 93001 US Hwy. 2 Skykomish, WA Online: stevenspass.com
Mission Ridge Ski and Board Resort via yelp
Expert Advice for Beginning Skiers
Mark Music, Mission Ridge’s Ski School Director, offered up some great tips to help set kiddos up for success on the mountain. He says to focus on comfort and to set realistic expectations. Bring lots of layers, never keep boots out in the cold (your kiddos toes will thank you) and bring hand warmers. That’s the secret he says, having a balaclava or neck gaitor ready, both hand and feet warmers ready to deploy at any moment, and a pair of spare mittens to keep hands dry on a damp day. Also, make room for lots of breaks during the day and head to the bathroom before gearing up in the many, many layers you’ll be packing on your tiny skiers.
It’s also never too early to get a child used to their boots and skis. Before making a trip to the mountain, have your kiddo walk around the living room in their ski gear. It can be a fun way to make believe while also getting them comfortable with what will hopefully be their favorite winter attire.
Music says just getting to the mountain is something to celebrate. “Congratulate yourself for getting to the hill,” he says. “Don’t be hard on yourself. The primary goal is more about getting outside together and making some great memories you’ll be talking about years from now.”
Jamal Hinton and Wanda Dench are set to spend their 7th Thanksgiving together after a wrong-number text started a years-long friendship
The story first went viral in 2016. A grandma, Wanda Dench, sent out a text with an invitation to her Thanksgiving dinner, but she accidentally sent one invite to the wrong number. Jamal Hinton was at the other end of that text message, and even though Dench wasn’t his grandma, he asked if he could still come over for a plate.
“Of course you can,” Dench wrote back. “That’s what grandma’s do… feed everyone.”
That was the start of a years-long friendship that’s still going strong. Hinton just posted a photo of himself and Dench, smiling with their arms around one another outside a Cheesecake Factory restaurant, as he announced that the pair are planning to get together once again for Thanksgiving 2022.
“To answer all your questions, yes Thanksgiving year 7 is planned out!” he wrote in the caption. “See you guys Thursday!”
Hinton captured hearts all over the internet when he revealed he had taken Dench up on her offer in 2016 and spent Thanksgiving with her and her husband, Lonnie.
It became a tradition as Hinton grew up—for their first Thanksgiving, he was just 17 years old. Now, as an adult, he still joins the Dench family. They even found ways to gather safely throughout the COVID pandemic, and they grieved together (and with their fans all over the world) when Lonnie passed away from complications of COVID-19 in early 2020.
2022 will be the seventh Thanksgiving that this unlikely pair of friends spends together, but the impact they’ve had on one another is even more far-reaching than that. There’s currently a Netflix movie in the works about their relationship, and Hinton featured Dench on a billboard when he started his own business. Earlier this year, Dench got her first tattoo—with Hinton by her side. Now they’re planning on getting matching ones.
“I told her the cameras and the fame, everything could stop tomorrow, and nothing’s changing between us,” Hinton told the Today show.
“Absolutely,” Dench added. “He’s in my heart for life.”
