As much as we love online shopping, there are always time you need something NOW. When that happens, it usually means packing the entire fam into the car for a road trip of errands.
Now, moms have one less trip to make as Ulta is moving into Target! Starting this month, Ulta Beauty at Target is debuting at 100 Target stores and target.com with more than 50 prestige brands for cosmetics, hair, skin, body and fragrance.
photo: Courtesy of Target
While the initial roll out only includes 100 stores (you can see which locations here), Target plans to reach a total of 800 locations in the future. The “shop-in-shop” concept will be near the existing beauty section and will be packed with displays, discovery zones and seasonal items.
Not only that, but you can shop using both your Target Circle and Ultamate Rewards programs! Tack on your RedCard and you’re saving big bucks (plus, not having to drive to another store!).
If you’re not near a Target where Ulta will be moving, you can still grab what you need from Target.com using the retailer’s same-day delivery using Shipt.
I listen to way too many podcasts—the ones that make you feel more aware, upset, unsure and fascinated. I meditate sometimes and I drink enough water. I’m definitely putting in the work to try to remember who I am, in addition to being a mom, a wife and a business owner.
My “to-do” list, like most caregivers, is long. It lives in my phone and on my mind and if I forget it, it pings me back into submission. It keeps me busy—doing and going, going and doing my way to a satisfactory life. And it makes me feel 82% numb and substantially less alive.
The routine dulls my senses and for a not-new human like myself, it bores me to death sometimes. Sincere gratitude aside, being a mom of young kids is majority monotonous and minority former-self fun. Today, as I was driving home from a meeting, I realized that I had a full tank of gas, my suitcase and not one but two credit cards. I thought, “I could just get away for the weekend, run off and be alone for a full 48 hours. The kids would be fine, my husband would understand.” In fact, he was the one that told me, “I can’t make you happy.”
I wanted to drive far away today and to leave my problems behind. The idea perculated fuzzy in my head, as my fomer-fun self suddenly perked up, like a breath of fresh air had entered my lungs and was pumping life back into me. But as regularly programmed, I instead reverted back to my “to-do” list and pushed the novel-yet-non-sensical idea aside.
Annoyed, I drove back into the mind-blowing experience of modern motherhood. I was driving myself numb and not doing anything about it. Why? Because motherhood is unconditional and transformative. It’s damn beautiful and in that beauty is also a breakdown, an experience of the soul. And because as mothers, we’re trained not to rock the boat. Heck, we are the boat keeping everything afloat.
Deep inside my sticky sense of resentment, hand-dipped in disappointment, I heard my husband say it again inside my head: “I can’t make you happy. You have to do that yourself.” He was right. This, “But what happened to my life?” baggage wasn’t his or theirs to carry. It was mine, all mine. There was no one left to blame. So now what?
I noticed a motorcyclist driving in front of me and he was masterfully pulling up his front wheel and rocking a wheely. I was at once, in awe and in admiration and also moderately concerned for his health and well-being. We exchanged a thumbs up as I drove by, congratulating him on his fearless feat and in that flash of a moment, I saw a twinkle in his eyes. They were sparkling like sunlight on the water. They were eyes of someone who was happy in that moment. It was that undeniable look you have when you’re doing something that makes you feel alive. When you’re not asking for anyone’s permission to live out loud and disappointing the world by not caring what anyone else thinks. Carl Jung calls it, individualizing, a way of being open-hearted to life.
That’s what I’m looking for. That look, that feeling.
I then have another idea and refuse to let my “to-do” list dictate my decision. I ask Siri, “How far is Coney Island from here?” She answered, “12 miles.” I veered my car off and decide to take matters into my own hands. To dedcidedly be happy by doing something that actually makes me happy. It was pretty simple: I was going to hit the coasters, because I love riding roller coasters. I took myself on the date night I’ve been so desperately missing and I ended up riding the Thunderbolt front row next to a mom and her daughter. We held hands and screamed our heads off. When I picked up my souvenior picture to remember this version of me that I’ve longed for, I noticed something in my eyes looking back at me. It was that same shine. There’s the me underneath the “to-do” lists and it’s just waiting to come out if only we can allow ourselves to unappolgetically do whatever makes us happy, no outside assistance required.
I’m a beauty hunter, a dreamer, a learner and a doer. I'm also a mama to 2 wild ones (Lily Love + Bear). As a self proclaimed forest fairy + forest school founder, I believe in nature and magic and know that growth happens when you step outside of your comfort zone.
You’ll send your kids to hog heaven by taking them to Peppa Pig Live! Peppa Pig’s Adventure, a live, family-friendly musical experience coming to US cities starting in September. The 60-minute show includes singalong songs, dancing, games and surprises.
In this brand-new show featuring life-size puppets of our favorite cartoon crew, Peppa heads out on a camping trip in the woods with her brother George and school friends Pedro Pony, Suzy Sheep and Gerald Giraffe. Daddy Pig is driving the bus, so he’s along for the outdoor adventures too.
Starting in Ottumwa, Iowa on September 11th, the show travels through Texas, Colorado, Illinois, Michigan, Indiana and more states this autumn. Visit peppapigliveus.com for a partial list of tour dates. Additional dates and cities will be announced soon.
For tickets to the show and VIP Meet & Greet packages, visit peppapigliveus.com. And follow Peppa Pig Live on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram for exclusive tour content.
You don’t have to go far for some time at the beach! Pack up the swimsuits, sunscreen and sunglasses, and get ready to spend more time digging in the sand and less time on the road. We rounded up six of our favorite beaches under a six hour drive from the DMV to max out your fun in the sun. From the Outer Banks to the Jersey Shore, these are the best family beaches near Washington, DC.
Colonial Beach, VA
Mary Carter
Colonial Beach is the closest beach to the DC metro area, just 1.5 hours away. It’s also the second-longest stretch of sand and surf in VA, with three distinct beaches including Downtown, with a boardwalk, restrooms, restaurants, food trucks, swings and more.
Cottage rentals and camping are a popular overnight option for families here. If you have the time, plan a trip to the George Washington Birthplace National Monument and James Monroe Birthplace, just outside of town.
There’s a reason so many families return to Ocean City, MD, year after year. Less than three hours from Washington, DC, this classic beach destination is known for its sand and surf, where the waves are optimal for boogie boarding, along with its boardwalk, where you’ll find rides, games, and delicious eats including pizza at The Dough Roller. Plan a day trip to see the majestic, wild ponies at nearby Assateague Island National Seashore while you’re in town.
Just 3.5 hours from Washington, DC, Virginia Beach is perfect for a family getaway, whether you’re visiting for a long weekend or staying for a week. You’ll find an abundance of waterfront hotels and vacation rentals, restaurants, and attractions, including the boardwalk. Stroll, skate, or bike the 3-mile-long path, which often plays host to street performers, summer concerts, festivals, and other events.
Beyond the sand and surf, it’s all about Funland in Rehoboth Beach, DE. There you’ll find “today’s fun at yesterday’s prices,” with classic rides and games the whole family will love. Stroll the boardwalk (with a stop for ice cream along the way, of course) and, when you need a break from the beach, enjoy the thrills and spills at Jungle Jim’s water park. Be sure to plan some day trips to neighboring Bethany Beach and charming Lewes, home to Cape Henlopen State Park, too.
Cape May is worth the four-hour drive from Washington DC, especially for families with young kids. The beaches are known for their shallow tide pools, and the town itself is famous for its candy-colored historic homes and B&Bs. Local attractions and activities include mini-golf, bicycling, climbing the Cape May Lighthouse, and shopping and dining at the Washington Street Mall. For an extra-special experience, book a stay at one of the Cape Resorts, such as the renowned Congress Hall.
If you’re ready for a week-long family vacation and up for a five hour-plus drive, head for the Outer Banks. You can stay at a beautiful beachfront hotel such as the Sanderling Resort, or rent a giant house with multiple rooms, a swimming pool and more, just steps from the beach. It’s all about relaxing by the ocean here, but when you’re ready to explore, there’s the famous black-and-white-striped Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, H2OBOX Waterpark, Jockey’s Ridge State Park (the best place to fly kites), and the Wright Brothers Memorial.
With Father’s Day just around the corner, it’s time to start planning how you and your littles are going to celebrate daddy’s day. Whether you’re ready to head out of the house or stay close to home, we have plans that are guaranteed to please. Read on for our list of father-friendly activities that are sure bets for making everyone’s dad feel special.
If he has a need for speed, treat him to the Atlanta Motor Speedway NASCAR Style Driving Experience & Ride Alongs (June 18 & 19) where he can drive over 165 miles per hour on the track. Or check out a 2 or 4 hour, mid vs rear drive program at the Porsche Driving Experience. where dad can experience 1.6 miles of the thrill of the drive. Just north of Atlanta in Dawsonville you'll find the Atlanta Motorsports Park, home of the world’s most unique karting track. Built to Formula One standards and offering 43 feet of elevation change, AMP Kart Racing offers a karting experience unlike any other.
Head downtown to celebrate the correlation between true identity and true freedom at Atlanta's Juneteenth Black History Parade/March/Rally (June 18). Or, swing by the Father's Day Flow (June 19) at Fourth Ward Skatepark Playground for all ages yoga meetup. For dads who enjoy staying at home and firing up the grill, sign him up for a Zoom Meatapalooza cooking class with Gunshow owner Kevin Gillespie, where they'll perfect some of his favorite backyard classics over a cold beer and the internet.
If the man of your house prefers to spend his time outside it, support his heart-healthy efforts by cheering him on—or better yet—joining in on the fun. Head to Halcyon for Goat Yoga on the Green (June 19), or perhaps head to Chattahoochee Nature Center (June 20) to celebrate dad with exclusive access to CNC’s Butterfly Encounter, where you can enjoy a light breakfast, experience various butterfly species, and explore the grounds prior to opening. Cheer on the Braves as they battle the Cardinals at 1:20 p.m. (June 20), then enjoy a 20-minute game of catch on the field with your dad (advance registration required).
Still searching for something special? Try a picnic at one of Atlanta’s best parks and playgrounds. Go for a spin on one of the city’s best bike trails, or go berry picking at an area farm. If you are feeling adventurous, head out for a horseback ride or take it to the trees at a nearby zipline park. No matter how you fête father’s day, be sure to shower dad with many acts of love!
Looks like Prime Day has some competition! Target has announced Deal Days, its biggest digital sale of the summer. This year it spans three full days, an extra 24 hours from previous years—and you won’t have to step foot in the store to get the savings.
From June 20-22, you’ll find discounts on thousands of items online, including electronics, home goods, toys and for the first time, food and beverage items. There’s no need to wait for shipping in many cases, with order pickup, drive up and same-day delivery with Shipt available.
Summer is almost here! The air is getting warmer, the sun stays out longer, and it’s likely your teens are getting anxious to start their summer vacation.
Your number one priority is to keep your kids safe, no matter how old they are. Summer is a time for relaxation and fun, but it can be stressful at times when you have a teenager in the house who wants to explore and soak up every bit of time they have to be themselves.
Thousands of books out there explain how to keep your home safe for an infant, but what about books or recommendations to keep teenagers safe? You can’t just put them in a playpen anymore—they have friends, cellphones, cars and a mind of their own now. To ensure your teen stays safe, check out these safety tips for your summertime teens so you can have a relaxing and bright summer!
Stress the Importance of Preventing the Spread of COVID-19
Hopefully, this tip will be off the list for next year, but it’s still valid for this year. Summertime is often associated with teens spending days on end with their friends and exploring various places. However, you must stress the prevention of spreading COVID-19.
Some states are beginning to reopen, so ensure your teen is following your state’s ordinances. Remind them to:
Frequently wash their hands
Wear a facemask
Practice social distancing
Avoid contact with those who may have the virus
Reminding them of these precautions should keep them healthy this summer to return safely to school in the fall.
Be Transparent About How Often You Want Communication
Teens seem to always be on their phones, but they tend to forget to reply to a text or call back their parents! Ensure you’re clear with how often you want them to check in with you when they’re out and about. It’s important that they know you’re one call away in case of any dangers.
Remind them to charge their phones often. Additionally, if you need an update on location changes, clearly explain that each time they leave a place and arrive at another location, you expect them to contact you.
Discuss Driving Safety & the Rules of the Road
For most teens, driving equals freedom. As your teen turns their designated driving age, they will want to be on the road as much as possible once summer hits. Whether it’s a day trip to the beach or a shopping trip with their best friend, they need to know that driving safely is crucial.
Discuss good driving habits such as wearing a seatbelt, putting the phone away and not eating in the vehicle. Any distractions, especially when teens first start driving, could be extremely dangerous.
Explain the Dangers of Substances
Although your teen has probably heard multiple times about the dangers of substance abuse, it never hurts to re-explain that to them. Teach them that peer pressure is a powerful thing and that it is 100% okay to say no. If they are in a situation where they’re pressured to use a vape, smoke, participate in drug use or drink, let them know that you are available to help.
Also, explain the long-term effects of those who delve into substances. Even though they may think it’s just one time, that one time can lead them down a road they don’t want to be on.
Get to Know the People Your Teen Spends Time With
One of the best ways to know if your teen will be safe when they are with friends is to get to know their friends. Have your teen invite their friends to your house for a few get-togethers. Additionally, you can ask your teen about their friends.
As your teen is spending time with their friends, observe them. This will allow you to better judge whether or not those people are good influences on your teenager.
Talk about Sex
It’s a tough conversation, but someone has to do it, and it’s probably best if it comes from a parent than any other source where information could be invalid. It’s a crucial conversation for all parents to have with their teenagers because many consequences can come from one sexual encounter.
Be open and honest with them. Allow them to ask you any questions they have. If they have been sexually active with someone, teach them about birth control and protection from sexually transmitted diseases.
Encourage a Healthy Diet & Hydration
In the summer, although kids are pretty active, there may be times you go on vacations and splurge on sugary treats and drinks for your teens. Although it’s okay to indulge every once in a while, ensure your teens still maintain proper eating habits to keep them energized and fueled for the day.
You should also ensure that your teen is drinking water. Water is the best drink for hydration purposes. People are more likely to become dehydrated during the summer months because of excessive heat and activity. Remind them to drink water throughout the day!
Create a Safe & Fun Summer Plan with Your Teen
Ultimately, you want your teenager to have fun during the summer. Soon, they’ll be off to college or heading into the workforce, so summer is their chance to live it up! Before summer break begins, have these conversations with them to create a safety plan for their summer.
Kara Reynolds is the Editor-in-Chief and founder of Momish Magazine. A mom of four and matriarch to her big blended family, Kara wants nothing more than to normalize differences in family structures. She enjoys peeing alone, pancakes, and pinot noir - but not at the same time.
As you start gearing up for all the fun pool floaties for the summer, don’t forget about baby! FUNBOY is here with a brand new lineup of inflatables: FUNBABY.
The three new floats in the FUNBABY collection are all about cruising through the summer (and the pool) with comfort and style. The line includes a Private Jet, Pink Retro Convertible and a Clear Glitter Unicorn (all $49)!
For ultimate comfort, each design features deep baby seats with soft leg holes, backrests, detachable sun shade and dual chambers with safety valves. The FUNBABY Private Jet and Pink Retro Convertible also come with an adorable steering wheel and horn, so baby can perfect their driving skills.
FUNBABY floats are geared towards kids ages one to two, and can hold up to 33 pounds.
Want the perfect mommy and me photo opp? Every FUNBABY float is a mini-version of an adult-sized style! So hop on over and snag the Retro Pink Convertible ($119), Clear Glitter Unicorn ($69) and the Private Jet (currently sold out but sign up for notifications).
You can shop the brand new FUNBABY line at funboy.com.
As if we couldn’t be excited enough for the slew of Disney movies to debut this summer, the powerhouse has just dropped the second trailer to the highly anticipated Cruella. It was just over a month ago that the studio shared the first sneak peak, and its successor brings the queen of mean to a whole new level.
In the newest trailer, we get a bigger backstory on Estella de Vil, the budding fashion designer who comes under the tutelage of the Baroness. To put it bluntly, the film is Emma (Stone) vs. Emma (Thompson) in the best way.
Estella turned Cruella gets her due in the subsequent scenes as we finally get a peak at a few Dalmatians, Horace and Jasper and some of the crazy driving you’ll recognize from 101 Dalmations.
Catch Cruella in theaters and on Disney+ with Premier Access starting May. 28.
With California slowly beginning to reopen, theme parks are getting in on the action. LEGOLAND is ready to play!
The brick-themed park has announced its opening date, and Apr. 1 is kicking off the fun. You’ll be able to cash in on Park Preview Days that will include select rides, dining, retail, live entertainment and building activities.
photo: LEGOLAND
So what rides can you expect to hop aboard? From Apr. 1, you can enjoy Coastersaurus, LEGO® TECHNIC™ Coaster, Driving School, Jr. Driving School, Skipper School, Royal Joust, Fairy Tale Brook, LEGOLAND Express Train, Lost Kingdom Adventure and Cargo Ace. You’ll also get to have fun with all the outdoor playgrounds and Miniland U.S.A.
Beginning, Apr. 15, the full reopening will commence. The remaining rides will open in addition to LEGO® CHIMA™ Water Park, SEA LIFE® Aquarium and select dining, retail, and indoor attractions available with advanced reservation.
LEGOLAND is offering priority access during April for LEGOLAND Hotel Guests, active Pass Holders (Play Pass, Annual Pass and Monthly Pay Memberships) and existing Day Ticket Holders for expired and unused during closures.
