Dive In: 10 Epic Airbnb Rentals with Pools

by Amanda NorcrossMay 11, 2021

Looking for a local place to get away this summer? You don’t need to go far for a true vacation. These Airbnb rentals near Washington, DC offer epic swimming pools, plus plenty of space for families of all sizes. Read on for the best Airbnb rentals near the DMV for summer fun. Splash on!

A Historic Hub | New Hope, PA

Escape to Bucks County, Pennsylvania, where this historic home—built around 1790—awaits families looking for some R&R near dining, shopping and outdoor activities in New Hope. The updated property retains its old-world charm throughout, but the real highlight is the secluded, outdoor pool, surrounded by lush greenery. Bucks County or the South of France? You won't know the difference here.

Sleeps: 6
Cost: $452/night
Online: airbnb.com

Mansion at the Beach | West Ocean City, MD

This Airbnb is so big and so cool that you might forget the beaches and boardwalk of Ocean CIty, Maryland, are only a short drive away. Play in the oversized pool, relax in the hot tub, roast S'mores by the fire pit, hang out in the game room (where there's also a wet bar), play basketball, and more. This Airbnb has five bedrooms and sleeps a total of 12 guests, making it perfect for a multigenerational escape.

Sleeps: 12
Cost: $452/night
Online: airbnb.com

Relaxed Escape in Amish Country | Lancaster, PA

Planning a trip to the Strasburg Rail Road or the Turkey Hill Experience? Make this Airbnb your home base. Located in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, it offers an oversized pool with diving board—the perfect place to relax after a fun (and exhausting) day at nearby Dutch Wonderland or Hersheypark. It also has a spacious living room with a balcony.

Sleeps: 6
Cost: $196/night
Online: airbnb.com

A Place to Reunite | Fairfax, VA

If you can safely see family and friends this summer, it’s time to plan a visit to this Airbnb that’s big enough to accommodate 15 guests. Situated in Fairfax, Virginia, this modern house offers a beautiful pool and hot tub, both of which can be lit up at night for after-dark swimming. You’ll also love the grill and outdoor dining area that’s covered and screened-in, ensuring the fun never stops, even when it rains.

Sleeps: 15
Cost: $600
Online: airbnb.com

A Backyard Paradise | Annapolis, MD

This property has been nicknamed the Petit Resort because you will feel like you're tucked into your own private retreat. But petit it is anything but. This house can accommodate up to 10 guests in six bedrooms. Relax on-site in the hot tub or in the pool or take a short walk (or water taxi) to downtown Annapolis for fresh seafood and waterside dining. Bonus: these superhosts employ the latest technologies and cleaning products to make sure this rental is clean as a whistle (and based off of reviews, they're doing a great job).

Sleeps: 10
Cost: $811/night
Online: airbnb.com

Getting Cozy by the Cottage | Chesapeake, VA

This private cottage offers waterview rooms from nearly every be in the house; there are 3 bedrooms to accommodate up to 6 guests (including a set of bunk beds for the littles). Get direct access to the Chesapeake Bay from this property or take a dip in the home's pool or hot tub. Amenities at this cottage include two kayaks, a stand up paddle board, a crab pot and dip net, a charcoal grill, a fire pit and two adult bikes. Toss these folding bikes into the car for the kids!

Sleeps: 6
Cost: $243/night
Online: airbnb.com

The Kiddie Pool | Arlington, VA

You don't have to travel far to dip your toe in a cool pool. This home in the heart of Clarendon in North Arlington offers a wading pool perfect for pint sized swimmers. Before or after your dip, don't forget to roast marshmallows in the outdoor fire pit. Feel free to leave your car at home; this house is conveniently located near a metro stop.

Sleeps: 12
Cost: $1,152/night
Online: airbnb.com

Rent a Five-Star Estate | Oakton, VA

Why rent a cottage when you can enjoy this spacious compound. It's the perfect place to self-quarantine for 2 weeks (there is a 14 day minimum stay) with family or friends. This elegant retreat is just 30 minutes from the capital; the perfect rental for those that need work/life balance. Lounge by the heated salt-water pool and enjoy a retreat that will make you feel worlds away from city life.

Sleeps: 8
Cost: $750/night
Online: airbnb.com

A Pool With a View | Royal Oak, MD

Perched on 90 acres, this farmet has views for miles. Enjoy everything the Eastern Shore has to offer, like fishing from the on-property pier or catching blue crabs for dinner. Amenities include crab traps and fishing poles and a $100 credit toward kayak rentals (or bring your own). Or just spend a lazy day in the pool while watching the wildlife.

Sleeps: 8
Cost: $666/night
Online: airbnb.com

A Farm Stay | New Market, MD

This perfectly private property, aptly named Peace and Plenty Farm, features a heated lap pool (open May to October) surrounded by wildflowers. It's the perfect place to relax after exploring historic downtown Frederick, Maryland (about 15 minutes away), or Gettysburg, Pennsylvania (45 minutes away). Other features include a grill, fire pit and walking trails.

Sleeps: 6
Cost: $225/night
Online: airbnb.com

—Amanda Norcross and Meghan Yudes Meyers

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Fun with Fido: 12 Airbnbs Where Dogs (& Kids) Are Always Welcome

by Kate LowethMay 4, 2021

Let’s just all agree that family vacations are better when the family dog can come along. The experts at BringFido posted their list of the most dog-friendly cities in the U.S. and we have the perfect dog- and kid-friendly Airbnbs to rent when you visit. Dogs who love to hike will enjoy Colorado Springs or Asheville, while beach pups should definitely check out San Diego. Scroll through to plan your next family adventure!

Love pets as much as we do?

Tinybeans, the app that allows you to upload and share photos and videos of your little ones with anyone you choose and no one you don’t, has teamed up with Hill's Pet Nutrition to allow users to add a pet! You can create a profile for your four-legged friend, share their photos and videos, receive milestone markers for them and see recommended articles based on your pet’s age and stage.

Up for a challenge? Create a pet profile today, and see if you can add a new memory each day this month. Your furball will love the added attention, and you'll love the fun photos you can look back on!

1920s Cottage with Great Location | Portland, OR

Did you know that Portland has more dog parks per capita than any other city in the U.S.? You'll love visiting this Pacific Northwest city and staying in this cute cottage in the Portsmouth neighborhood. The fully fenced in backyard and fire pit are great for evenings spent under the stars. Three parks are just a short walk away.

Sleeps: 6
Cost: $52/night
Online: airbnb.com

Cozy Cabin with Hot Tub | Asheville, NC

Got a dog who loves to hike? Asheville is your spot. Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, there's plenty of dog-friendly trails that the whole family will love. Spend your night in this cozy cabin with the cutest wood-burning stove on the porch and hot tub to relax those muscles after a long day on the trail.

Sleeps: 4
Cost: $250/night
Online: airbnb.com

Spacious Home with Gorgeous Water Views | San Diego, CA

Beach dogs, this one's for you! This gorgeous home has plenty of room for the whole crew and is only a short drive from San Diego's Old Town and all the gorgeous beaches. It has a BBQ for when you want to bring back some fresh fish for grilling.

Sleeps: 9
Cost: $150/night
Online: airbnb.com

The Historic Farmhouse | Colorado Springs, CO

Colorado Springs offers loads of dog-friendly hiking options for dogs that like to hit the trail like the 21 miles of trails at Garden of the Gods. This Airbnb has everything you need for a comfortable stay for the whole family. You'll love hanging out in the fenced-in backyard that has a fire pit, giant Jenga, cornhole and a hot tub for everyone to enjoy.

Sleeps: 6
Cost: $124/night
Online: airbnb.com

Classic Brownstone near Fenway | Boston, MA

With tons of dog-friendly walking tours available, Boston is a great option for families who want to bring their mutt along to learn about history. This classic brownstone will give you all the Boston feels as it's just a short distance from Fenway Park and has ultra-high ceilings.

Sleeps: 4
Cost: $239/night
Online: airbnb.com

South Austin Cottage along Bouldin Creek Greenbelt | Austin, TX

Outdoor adventure abounds in Austin and this gem right along the Bouldin Creek Greenbelt will give you plenty of options for exploring with your pup. The dead-end street offers privacy for when you want to enjoy s'mores in the Adirondack chairs around the backyard campfire.

Sleeps: 6
Cost: $173/night
Online: airbnb.com

Tampa Townhome near the Beach | Tampa, FL

If sunny days are what the dog wants, sunny days are what the dog will get. Bunk up at this townhome that's just a short distance from Picnic Island Beach Dog Park where you have all the grass and even some sand for exploring.

Sleeps: 8
Cost: $221/night
Online: airbnb.com

Mountain Retreat | Phoenix, AZ

Give the doggies a taste of the gorgeous desert at this home in the hills just above Phoenix. You'll have access to a pool and tennis courts if you are looking for recreation beyond all the hiking trails nearby.

Sleeps: 7
Cost: $250/night
Online: airbnb.com

1922 Craftsman | Seattle, WA

Home to the Starbucks Puppuccino, Seattle is a great destination for families and their four-legged friends. We love this cute home that's just 4 miles to downtown as it has plenty of room for your crew and on-street parking as well.

Sleeps: 6
Cost: $99/night
Online: airbnb.com

Modern Home near the Beach | San Francisco, CA

San Francisco offers lots of great options for exploring with your pup. This modern home is super close to Ocean Beach and the Great Highway is currently closed to vehicles so you can walk your pup there with ease. Venture over to Golden Gate Park and let your dog run off leash in the designated area.

Sleeps: 6
Cost: $121/night
Online: airbnb.com

Serviced Apartment for 7 | Kansas City, MO

Dogs and kids will both love exploring the acres of adventure at Kansas City's Swope Park. This serviced apartment is not far away and offers hotel amenities with the comfort of a home.

Sleeps: 7
Cost: $108/night
Online: airbnb.com

—Kate Loweth

Please note, prices listed were valid at the time of publication but rates can fluctuate at different times of the year.

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15 Tiny Homes for the Mom Getaway You Desperately Need

by Kate LowethApril 26, 2021

This has been quite the year and moms for sure got the brunt of it all. Send her away on a zen-focused vacation and make one of these tiny homes the destination. They have the totally cute factor that she’ll love and (sadly) no room for the family to come along. The mom getaway awaits!

Joshua Tree Land Yacht (Joshua Tree, CA)

Take in the beauty of Joshua Tree from this Classic Airstream Land Yacht trailer. At 31 feet, it’s just cozy enough for you and your little adventurers. The Airstream has a private deck and stock tank pool for cooling off while you enjoy the incredible desert scenery.

Sleep: 4
Cost: $122/night
Online: airbnb.com

Area 55 Futuro House (Joshua Tree, CA)

For a totally "out of this world" adventure, book a few nights at this restored Futuro House in Joshua Tree. This totally off-the-grid home has fresh water in the outdoor shower and a fire pit where you can eat under the stars. Solar power is available to charge your small electronics but there's no WiFi, just board games to enjoy in this gorgeous area of California. Check out our guide for ideas of what to do in the area.

Sleeps: 4
Cost: $221/night
Online: airbnb.com

Mushroom Dome Cabin (Aptos, CA)

For a magical vacation experience, try the beautiful and secluded Mushroom Dome Cabin. This popular hideaway near Santa Cruz treats you to acres of land to explore, a garden full of hummingbirds and incredible night skies.

Sleeps: 3
Cost: $154/night
Online: airbnb.com

ATL Unique and Modern (Atlanta, GA)

This modern tiny house is your launch pad for exploring the city of Atlanta. With two queen beds, a bathroom and a full kitchen, this little rental has everything to host your family The private fenced yard has a fire pit and ping pong for a relaxed night in, and the location makes it easy to pop out to enjoy the sights of the city.

Sleeps: 4
Cost: $113/night
Online: airbnb.com

The Flying Pig Treehouse Oasis - Topanga, CA

Nestled in the hills of LA's Topanga Canyon, this bohemian treehouse-for-two is built in an old oak tree overlooking a seasonal waterfall. Escape here for a romantic getaway (sans kids), or for a parent-and-me glamping adventure. It's the perfect chance to unplug (from all those Zooms!) and get back to nature.

Sleeps: 2
Cost: $190/night
Online: airbnb.com/rooms/38700768

The Hummingbird (Sandy Valley, NV)

Check out life on a working dude ranch with this tiny house in Nevada. Situated on the Sandy Valley Ranch and only one hour from Las Vegas, The Hummingbird is a western-themed rental with tons of charm. Guests can enjoy meals in the ranch house and book horseback rides when available.

Sleeps: 3
Cost: $85/night
Online: airbnb.com

Apple Blossom Cottage (Jamaica, VT)

Head to Vermont for an enchanted stay at the tiny and whimsical Apple Blossom Cottage. With enough room for five guests, this sweet little home makes the perfect nesting place for a relaxing vacation. Make s’mores around the fire pit, enjoy the beauty of the gardens and mountains from the front porch or chill inside with the provided selection of board games and books.

Sleeps: 5
Cost: $78/night
Online: airbnb.com

Taos Country Cottage (Taos, NM)

This light and airy Taos cottage sleeps four and has fantastic sky and mountain views, as well as an outdoor fire pit. Perfect for families, this rental has enough room to lounge and stretch out while still being uniquely compact. The house is close enough for a quick visit to town but private enough to unwind and relax in peace.

Sleeps: 4
Cost: $89/night
Online: airbnb.com

Private Room in San Diego Treehouse (San Diego, CA)

This private room in a treehouse is a charming retreat for a mom & me or dad & me adventure. Here you'll be perched six blocks from The San Diego Bay, three blocks to the Village of Little Italy, and six blocks from the world famous Balboa Park and San Diego Zoo. Fun features include an outdoor shower, a shaded outdoor living room and bbq grill, access to a fully equipped gourmet kitchen and three outdoor decks. The upper deck has a fireplace and boasts views of the San Diego skyline and San Diego Bay.

Sleeps: 2 guests
Cost: $77/night
Online: airbnb.com/rooms/589214

Yellow Lifeguard Stand (Sarasota, FL)

It’s all about easy breezy beach vibes at this bright tiny house in Sarasota, modeled after a lifeguard stand. Close to Siesta Key, this cheery charmer sleeps four and has two queen beds, TV, WiFi, a full bathroom, kitchen, surfboard-shaped breakfast bar and indoor and outdoor dining areas. The perfect vacation home for sand, sun and fun!

Sleeps: 4
Cost: $151/night
Online: airbnb.com

Finger Lakes Cottage (Honeoye, NY)

Step up your family bonding with a quiet tiny house in the woods on the Finger Lakes. This comfy spot sleeps four and allows for plenty of quiet relaxation. A shared lodge on the property has tables and chairs, as well as a bathroom, showers and the kitchen.

Insider Tip: This tiny house has a two-night minimum, so book a full weekend (or more!) and get ready to unplug and escape.

Sleeps: 4
Cost: $95.23/night
Online: glampinghub.com

Getaway (DC, NY, Boston)

If you have a sense of adventure, you’ll love booking with Getaway! You won’t know your exact secret location until after you book, and that’s all part of the fun. Getaway escapes are within two hours of D.C., New York or Boston. On the day of your arrival, you’ll receive a text and email with the name of your tiny cabin. The D.C. escape is on 80 acres of woods and has 20 tiny cabins that fit 2 or 4 people. Kitchens are stocked with kitchen essentials, as well as snacks and simple meals for purchase. For the family that’s always up for some spontaneity, this is for you.

Sleeps: 2-4
Cost: $125/night
Online: getaway.house

Mt. Hood Tiny House Village (Welches, OR)

Experience the majestic mountain views and enjoy tiny house living at this spot in Welches, Oregon. The Mt. Hood Tiny House Village at Mt. Hood Village RV Resort is near Mt. Hood National Forest and just an hour from Portland, Oregon. The charming tiny houses sleep between 3 and 5 people, with full bathrooms and kitchens. Hiking trails and an on-site pool, playground and restaurant make this a great stop for families.

Sleeps: 3-5
Cost: $135/night
Online: rvonthego.com

Waterloo/Lost Island KOA

The bright deluxe cabins at the Waterloo KOA fit 4-8 people, so there’s room for your whole crew! Kids will love walking out the door to the campground’s playground and swimming beach. For even more fun, Lost Island, Iowa’s largest waterpark, is just a half mile down the road.

Sleeps: 4-6
Online: koa.com

Think Big A Tiny House Resort (Cairo, NY)

Try out the tiny house lifestyle in this resort on 28 acres just two hours outside of New York City. In your tiny house at Think Big A Tiny House Resort, you’ll find linens, kitchenware, full bath, WiFi, cable TV, Netflix, private patio, fire pit, outdoor dining table and more. Guests are welcome to herbs and veggies from the garden, fresh eggs from the chickens, board games, DVDs and plenty of other luxuries to make your stay amazing. Visit the website for the most current rates and availability.

Online: atinyhouseresort.com

—Kate Loweth & Anna Doogan

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The Most Wishlisted Airbnb Rentals That Families Love

by Kate LowethMarch 28, 2021

Is your crew ready to get away? We get it and so does Airbnb. They recently released their list of the most wishlisted rentals for families and it is full of great options for summer vacation and future get togethers with grandparents. From a massive lakehouse that sleeps 16 to an island paradise, there’s an option for every family. Let the planning begin!

Sea Turtle Lagoon | Santa Rosa Beach, FL

Set in a quiet neighborhood, this 3-bedroom beach oasis is perfect for families looking to relax on the nearby beaches and take in the local attractions.

Sleeps: 4
Cost: $198/night
Online: airbnb.com

The Frenchman Cottage, Narragansett, RI

Superhost François has decorated this gorgeous cottage with furniture imported from his native France. You can stay in and bake cookies in the fully equipped kitchen or enjoy the fire pit and on the large deck for fun family nights after a day at the local beach.

Sleeps: 5
Cost: $173/night
Online: airbnb.com

Lux Family Chalet | Steamboat Springs, CO

Boasting some of the best views in Steamboat, this luxury chalet features four bedrooms and huge entertaining space including pool table, tv room, full custom bar and a private walk out to your hot tub with views across the valley.

Sleeps: 14
Cost: $859/night
Online: airbnb.com

Beautiful Berkshire Family House | Monterey, MA

This beautiful 5-bedroom Berkshire is nestled in the woods just off the Appalachian trail, featuring an outdoor grill, dining areas with deck dining, screened porch dining and large lawn and garden with swings, and toys & books.

Sleeps: 12
Cost: $361/night
Online: airbnb.com

Family Friendly Home One Mile from Beach | Long Beach, CA

Located just one mile from the beach, this shore-themed cottage is set in a quiet neighborhood and boasts an outdoor grill, fire pit, mini playground and games, books, foosball table. Stroller and pack n' play crib are available for the little ones.

Sleeps: 8
Cost: $98/night
Online: airbnb.com

Lakehouse Getaway | South Haven, MI

Ideal for making family memories, this lakehouse is close to the beach, downtown and local playground. The 3-bedroom house features an extra game room and a beautiful sun room with a sleeping area. High chair, stroller, pack n' play and kids' games all come with the rental.

Sleeps: 16
Cost: $434/night
Online: airbnb.com

Lux family 4 BR in the Heart of Franklin | Franklin, TN

Just a 10-minute walk to downtown Franklin, this ranch-style home boasts a private patio, perfect for grilling with the family, and a cozy fire pit for chillier nights. You'll have cruiser bikes available to head downtown and plenty of bedrooms and bathrooms for everyone to have their own space.

Sleeps: 10
Cost: $329/night
Online: airbnb.com

Saugatuck Modern Farmhouse | Saugatuck, MI

This spacious farmhouse is great for multi-generational families and features a screened-in porch with comfortable seating, gas fireplace for story time, and downstairs ping-pong room and media room. It's a 10-minute drive to Oval Beach or you can easily walk to downtown Saugatuck. Pack n' play. strollers and toys are included.

Sleeps: 16
Cost: $434/night
Online: airbnb.com

Huge family house near downtown | Atlanta, GA

This centrally-located house features plenty of activities to entertain the little ones including a fully-stocked kitchen with all the amenities to classic children's toys and an original Nintendo Entertainment System. The house is also fully baby proofed. There's even a swing in the living room!

Sleeps: 16
Cost: $351/night
Online: airbnb.com

Siesta Key, large family home | Siesta Key, FL

This island paradise on Siesta Key features four bedrooms with a resort-style heated salt water pool. It's close to the beach and local village. There's a fun home theater for family movie night!

Sleeps: 10
Cost: $457/night
Online: airbnb.com

Funky, family-friendly cabin | Hancock, VT

Nestled in the woods in Vermont with a waterfall and brook rushing by outside the large wall of windows, this cabin is situated in the Green Mountains. It is the perfect place to relax and play with the entire family. Stargazing is at its prime here and you're close to some great skiing if that's your jam.

Sleeps: 8
Cost: $105/night
Online: airbnb.com

—Kate Loweth

Please note, prices listed were valid at the time of publication but rates can fluctuate at different times of the year.

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Squishmallows’ New Squishville Line Is Collectible Cuteness

by Erica LoopMarch 5, 2021

Jazwares recently announced the launch of a new Squishmallows brand extension—Squishville! More than 73 million of the wildly popular Squishmallows have made their way into homes around the world. Now your kiddos can add to their collection with the new line of mini plushes and more.

The Squishville lines includes two-inch mini-collectible plush characters along with vehicles, playsets and other accessories. While not all of the cute and cuddly collectibles are available immediately, by the end of the year your fam could nab all 150 characters.

Photo: Amazon

Laura Zebersky, president of Jazwares said, in a press release, “As momentum around the Squishmallows brand continues to thrive, we are thrilled to take this globally adored line to a whole new level with the release of Squishville.” Zebersky continued, “Squeezable and stylish with big personalities, fans will love these must-have additions which allow consumers to ‘Squad Up’ and ‘Squish In’ with their favorite Squishmallows.”

Squishmalllows Squishville line will launch with:

24 styles of the Squishville Mystery Mini-Squishmallow with Fashion Item ($4.99)
12 varieties of the Squishville Mini-Squishmallow with Vehicle ($6.99)
Three assorted varieties of the Squishville Mini-Squishmallow 4-Pack ($9.99)
Three assorted varieties of the Squishville Mystery Mini-Squishmallow 6-Pack ($14.99)
Four styles of the Squishville Mini-Squishmallow 2 Pack with Fashion ($7.99)
Five styles of the Squishville Accessory Set Assortment ($12.99)
Two styles of the Squishville Play Scene Assortment ($17.99)
Two styles of Squishville Fifi’s Cottage ($29.99).

You can score select items right now Amazon and Hot Topic. Claire’s will also carry the line (starting later this month) along with Walmart and Target (this June).

—Erica Loop

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I Started a Business for My Son with Autism during the Pandemic

By Catherine Blatnik

Tinybeans Voices Contributor

March 5, 2021

banana bread

Photo: The Creative Exchange on Unsplash

This month marks the one-year “anniversary” of Dominic being home full-time from school. When the pandemic started, I guess I was very optimistic and thought it would only last a few weeks. Little did I know, that almost a year later, the pandemic would still be raging on.

It has been of a bit of a “learning curve” having Dominic here and my husband working from home (the hubby likes to call it a “preview” of what it will be like when he retires)!! We have worked out a good system, so one of us is always home with Dominic. He can’t be left alone because of his Complex Partial Epilepsy. He has had six seizures since the pandemic started, the most recent one was the beginning of January.

Since we have had lots of extra time in our schedule, in June of 2020, we went from once-a-week private speech therapy to twice-a-week. It has been a pretty seamless transition from in-person to “virtual” learning with her. His private speech therapist has moved away from worksheets and started to concentrate heavily on “work/life skills.” It was her suggestion to start to have Dominic bake for her and then she would pay him for his finished baked product. We really wanted him to make that connection.

I started to wonder if we could bake for other people and make it into a “business.” I started to comb the internet for information and found that Michigan has something called a “Cottage Food Law.” I did some research and then sat on the information for a while. It was several pages of rules and regulations (very overwhelming and intimidating at first). I began to think long-term and after finding a free on-line workshop on running a “Cottage Food” business and registering for it (the workshop wasn’t until December), I decided to move forward. I already had tons of recipes at my disposal on my food blog, so I knew that I wouldn’t need to be continually testing out new recipes! I then began to think that we probably should come up with a name and a logo. This is where an artist friend of mine, that I had used for classes for the disability ministry came into the picture. I asked him if he could start private art lessons with Dominic (even though Dominic had shown zero interest at previous art events with the disability ministry).

Dominic started his weekly private art lessons in August of 2020 and except for a few times, he has been going steadily every week! It has been amazing to watch his self-confidence grow!! A few months into the lessons, I asked if Dominic could start designing a logo for the business. My artist friend agreed and we let Dominic make all the decisions about what it would look like, the colors, etc. I even ordered a shirt with the logo on it for Dominic!

Anyways, we got our first order at the end of November and little by little, we started to get more orders. In the second week of December, a few days after the on-line workshop about running a “Cottage Food Business,” my Dad (who lived back in Maryland) went into the hospital with what we all thought was a minor infection. It turned out he was in end-stage congestive heart failure and my beloved dad passed away on December 17. I was devastated by his passing and it took me until a week or so into January before I felt like I could re-start the business.

A few weeks ago, we filed the name “Baked Goods By Dominic” with the local county clerk’s office and opened a bank account! Our family has had an outpouring of support and Dominic just delivered his 22nd a few days ago. Ironically, my maternal great-grandfather owned and operated a bakery in Butler, Missouri.

I love that this baking business has started for several reasons. One is that I had stopped baking, because my life pre-pandemic had gotten very, very busy. This pandemic has forced me to slow down and resume my passion for baking! The second is that Dominic is learning both “life” and “work” skills. One of his favorite things to do when we go on a delivery is to hold my phone and help me “navigate” with Google maps. The third is that my ultimate goal for this business is for Dominic to have his own bakery (like my great-grandfather had), but employ only those with special needs. It’s a great (and realistic) goal to have, don’t you think?!?!?!

This post originally appeared on bountifulplate.

Catherine Blatnik

Tinybeans Voices Contributor

I am a stepmom to one and a mom to two. I have been a stay-at-home mom for over 24 years. Grew up in Maryland and have lived in Michigan since 2001 when my husband got a job here. My 16-year old son has multiple disabilities.

Let’s Be Honest, Kids Take a Toll on Marriage

By Lisa Aihara

Tinybeans Voices Contributor

March 3, 2021

Photo: Toa Heftiba via Unsplash

When I was in my late 20s, the first batch of my friends started to have kids. I visited one of my college friends to meet their new baby—we chatted about our good ‘ole days, gave each other some status updates, and I just giddily flitted over baby even though I was scared to hold him. During this hangout, my friend said something that really stuck with me. While recounting to me the early days with baby and the challenges that ensued in a comical, light-hearted manner, she also mentioned that she and her husband started to fight more and that the baby, “Really took a toll on our marriage.”

I had been with my now-husband for nearly a decade at that point, and like many high school sweethearts, we had had our biggest fights during our hormone-raged youth and had settled into a routine by then. We knew each other well and had learned how to avoid a fight before it even started. So when I heard this from my friend, I remember thinking that it was such a sad thing to say and even vowed (as many dumb childless people do) that I wouldn’t let that happen to MY marriage when I had children.

What I didn’t realize then is that I would owe my friend an apology for having missed the point completely on this statement that is so honest and vulnerable and 1000% true. So if you’re reading this, I am so sorry for not understanding until now how freaking amazing you were to have shared this with me, and I want you to know that having heard this probably saved my marriage.

To the naive and idiotic mind of a know-it-all childless dump, the admission of their marital hardship sounded like a sad, deflated white flag to say that the relationship could not overcome this new chapter in their life. But the truth is, if you have children and it *doesn’t* take a toll on your marriage, you might be doing it wrong. Of course, there are those shiny rainbow couples who take every new stage with stride, love, patience, and sweet cuddles…and those guys can just leave this conversation. My husband and I, despite having been together for such a long time, were not and never will be that couple—and I imagine most of us fall out of that unicorn camp.

Having children changes you. Remember before we had kids and someone asked us if we wanted one, we would say something along the line of “Yeah one day, but for now, I enjoy ‘X’ too much,” filled in with things that we knew from all the clichés that babies take away: going out, spending an obscene amount of money on frivolous things, etc., things we felt we weren’t ready to give up. I always thought that I had to be ready to give these things up voluntarily to be “qualified” to have kids.

But that wasn’t it at all. When baby came I didn’t *want* to go out, sleep in, spend money, or eat fast food the way I used to, because the moment that the nurse plopped that cottage-cheese-covered red monkey of a baby on my chest was…to say it conservatively, a transformation. The person I used to be, the things I used to enjoy, even the things that I thought were hills I’d die on, all became insignificant and dull compared to this person I just made and have been endowed with. Call it hormones, even call it brainwashing. Whatever it was, it completely and permanently altered my very being. Sound frightening? It really really was.

So imagine, while this is happening to me as I pushed out a human that I baked from scratch—the same thing is happening to my husband, who I’ve known since I was 17. And I see him crying and laughing as this baby is peeing on him. And if you know my husband, you will say “He CRIED?” because it’s that surprising. And I didn’t know it then, but it was also a sign that some stuff was about to go down.

We fought so much those early days. My husband was lucky enough to have gotten a 6-week paternity leave, which was amazing because he got to bond with our son, but it probably also contributed to a lot of the fights because he was in the trenches with me. He knew about the bad latch, the sleeping and feeding schedules…and for the first time in our relationship, we both had something that we equally cared so deeply about that we were willing to put anything on the line for it—even our relationship. Up until that point, we were each other’s top priority. That shift was wild. And don’t forget, we’re not even the same people anymore, so the strategies and techniques that we had previously learned meant nothing. The baby was a wrecking ball, naked Miley Cyrus and all, who came in and totally demolished everything that we’ve built up as a couple. Now we had to try to rebuild it, while keeping a baby alive, which meant we had to do it with zero time and zero sleep. I wonder why we had so many problems? (ha!)

So yes, our kid took a toll on our marriage. But because of that, it forced us to build something in the aftermath that’s more resilient and deeply rooted in our being. We had to, or else we wouldn’t have survived. I now understand that having a kid to save a marriage would never work because it’s the absolute opposite—a kid is going to tear you up into shreds so small that you won’t want to pick those pieces back up to put it back together unless your marriage is worth saving. And you know what, I think that’s totally okay. The truth is, anything worth fighting for, there will be fighting for it. And I think we can all agree that our kids are worth the fight.

Lisa Aihara

Tinybeans Voices Contributor

Lisa Aihara is a writer and artist based in Los Angeles. When she's not busy keeping her toddler alive, she's growing another human and has no time for any BS. For an honest, practical take on motherhood, relationships, and just life's struggles through comics and stories, follow her on Instagram and her Blog.

6 Totally-Cute Cabins Your Can Rent Near Orlando

by Kate LowethDecember 15, 2020

If you are desperate for a change of scenery, we’ve got just the spots for you. These Orlando Airbnb rentals are the perfect cozy cabins you’ve been dreaming of. You’ll find tons family-friendly amenities in these Airbnb rentals for families that include a log cabin, cabins near Disneyworld and even cabins with a pool. Get ready to relax in the great outdoors!

Riverfront Cabin—Apopka, FL

You'll love everything about this little cabin from its location near Disney and Universal to it's serene nature setting. This two-bedroom, two-bath cabin is inside Wekiva Springs State Park and you'll love having the river right outside. Enjoy using the property's canoe and kayak while you are there and lounge on the riverfront deck.

Sleeps: 6
Cost: $154/night
Online: airbnb.com

Cypress Log Home on the Lake—Groveland, FL

You'll love this spot as it is close to all the Orlando action but you'll feel totally relaxed and away from it all. There's a dock for wildlife viewing and fishing as well as stargazing. Watercraft are available to rent onsite for an additional fee. The property owner also offers transportation to the theme parks.

Sleeps: 10
Cost: $500/night
Online: airbnb.com

Blue Cottage—Kissimmee, FL

You're only six miles from Disney in this cute cottage that has everything you need from air conditioning to a full kitchen. The price is right and you'll love being able to get away from the crowds after a day at the theme park. There's a restaurant and pool in the resort so you'll have the best of both worlds.

Sleeps: 6
Cost: $67/night
Online: airbnb.com

Home in the Oaks—Apopka, FL

You're whole crew can shack up at this spot that sleeps 15. Wekiva Springs and Rock Springs State Parks are a five minute drive and you'll be just 30 minutes to Disney. Enjoy the pool and BBQ after a busy day, Dine outdoors and watch the kids play basketball. This cabin has everything you'll need.

Sleeps: 15
Cost: $302/night
Online: airbnb.com

Log Cabin on a Lake—Orange City, FL

This spot is a relaxing quiet log cabin in the woods on a small pristine lake fed from a natural spring, great fishing from a floating dock. An outdoor fire pit near the lake with gorgeous sunsets. Just 25 miles from the Daytona International Speedway. 29 miles from Downtown Orlando.

Sleeps: 11
Cost: $599/night
Online: airbnb.com

Vacation Village Cabin—Clermont, FL

This unique A-Frame home in Vacation Village neighborhood is less than 30 minutes from the heart of downtown Orlando and Walt Disney World, and less than 5 miles from the National Training Center. Go out on the lake for fishing, kayaking, boating, or swimming. Gated community featuring an Olympic-sized pool, tennis, shuffleboard, and playgrounds right on Lake Louis with boat ramp and small beach area.

Sleeps: 6
Cost: $99/night
Online: airbnb.com

—Kate Loweth

Please note, prices listed were valid at the time of publication but rates can fluctuate at different times of the year.

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Discover the World’s Most Unique Vacation Rentals

by Jennifer SwartvagherAugust 25, 2020

Travel plans have changed drastically since the COVID-19 outbreak. If you are looking to get away for a day or two there are plenty of fun and safe options. These unique experiences will surely be one your kids will never forget.

Tony Stark’s Cabin from “Avengers: End Game”

If your little ones are big Iron Man fans then they might be excited to spend the night in Tony Stark’s lakeside cabin from Avengers: End Game.

The cabin, which is located on 800 acres of private property in Fairburn, Georgia, just 20 minutes from the Hartsfield-Jackson Airport, is available to rent through Airbnb.

Atlanta Alpaca Treehouse in the Bamboo Forest and Llama Cottage

If your idea of a fun family vacation involves treehouses and llamas then Airbnb has the perfect rental for you.

The rentals are located at an animal sanctuary that is home to two llamas and four alpacas who are free to roam around the property and mingle with the guests who book a stay in the Alpaca Treehouse or Llama Cottage.

Harry Potter's Childhood Home - De Vere House

Now you can spend the night in Harry Potter’s childhood home. The IRL home, known as the De Vere House, is listed on Airbnb.

The home, which is located in the medieval village of Lavenham in England has one bedroom, one shared bath and is the perfect size for two guests.

Twelve Parsecs

If you’re planning a trip to a galaxy far, far away, Airbnb has the perfect place for you to stay in Orlando, Florida.

Twelve Parsecs is a 9-bedroom house located just 15 minutes away from Disney World, making it the perfect place for a family of Jedi warriors to rest their heads while visiting Galaxy’s Edge.

Hagrid's Hut

Harry Potter fans have the chance to spend a cozy night inside Hagrid’s rustic Hut, or rather, a replica of his magical home. The Groundskeeper’s Cottage, which is made to look like the moss-covered stone hut where Hagrid resides, is available for booking in North Yorkshire, England.

—Jennifer Swartvagher

Featured photo: Airbnb

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Kabillion Now Streaming 45+ Free Animated Kids Shows

by Karly WoodApril 17, 2020

If you’re looking for a new place to find kid-friendly content then it’s time to check out Kabillion. The kids and families platform is the perfect place to get “kabillions” of age-appropriate entertainment––for free!

Kabillion offers free content all year long and in addition to favorite shows like Thomas the Train, Barbie Dreamtopia, Sonic X and Ninjago, the streaming provider is also offering special Earth Day content for the month of April through May 29. Keep scrolling to see the entire lineup!

Earth Day on Kabillion and Kabillion Girls Rule!

Kabillion

Sonic X: Trick Sand
The crew of the Blue Typhoon go emerald hunting on a deserted planet.

Sonic X: Underground
Sonic and the gang go exploring another, earth like, planet.

Transformers: Nature Calls
Prowl, Bumblebee and Sari get more than they bargained for when they head out to the remote woods to investigate a mysterious energy signal.

Kabillion Girls Rule!

Bobby’s World: Fish Tales
The Generics go camping in Canada!

Chloe’s Closet: All Green Thumbs
The kids have fun making things grow with water, but when they overgrow a mouse, she’s too tall to get inside her home and reach her babies. They enlist Mac who’s short enough to help.

Chloe’s Closet: In The Fix
Handyman Chloe and friends are called to fix Mother Nature’s run-down cottage.

LEGO Friends: Dolphin Cruise
Olivia, Stephanie, Andrea, Mia, and Emma enter a science contest at school and win a trip on a luxury yacht – but not everything goes as planned when they set out to sea.

To access Kabillion, families can watch on demand on many cable and satellite providers. You can also stream via the free app on Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, Roku and XUMO.

You’ll also want to head to the new Freebies section on the Kabillion website to find printable and downloadable coloring pages feature characters from favorite TV shows streaming on Kabillon, plus word search activities!

––Karly Wood

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