ML Interest Tag: play-date

Put These Frightfully Fun Halloween Events on Your Family Calendar

by Allison Sutcliffe

Check out these wicked-fun Halloween events Boston kids can’t get enough of

Halloween is just around the corner, parents, and you know what that means. Busting out those Halloween costumes and wearing them as many times as you can before October comes to an end. So in the spirit of the season, we’ve found kid-friendly Boston Halloween events families can enjoy to help you out. From haunted trails and ghostly gardens to slimy science and spooky art, here’s where to scare up family fun around Boston in October.

Halloween events in Boston you won’t want to miss

jack-o-lantern pumpkin in front of Manhattan skyline at night
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Pumpkins in the Park
One of our favorite Boston Halloween events, families can enjoy Halloween-themed games and activities, a costume parade, spooky music by Nate the DJ, and more. Then hit the pumpkin-lit Animal Nocturnal Trail, a short walk through the woods dotted with fun facts about the nocturnal animals found at Bird Park. Along the trail, four “nocturnal animals” hand out candy to tick-or-treaters, so remember to wear your costume and bring a trick-or-treat bag and flashlight. Oct. 22, 2022. Event details.

Zoo Howl
Animals and Halloween adventures await families at Franklin Park Zoo's Zoo Howl, where kids are invited to trick-or-treat among the animals. Expect mystery animal encounters, costume contests and education stations where kids can meet with Zoo educators to learn about creepy crawly critters. Take a stroll along the trick-or-treat trail and complete the scavenger hunt to win prizes, too. You'll need advance tickets for this one. Oct. 29 & 30, 2022. Event details.

Hillside Halloween
Get dressed up in your costumes and bring the family out to the Fruitlands Hillside for a trick-or-treating walk on the museum campus. Timed ticketing will control the flow of guests through the site, allowing you plenty of space for safe Halloween fun. Oct. 28, 2022. Event details.

October Play Date at ICA
It’s almost Halloween! The perfect time to bring the kids to ICA to get inspired and enjoy free admission for families. Plans are still in the works, but if things run like last year, you can expect a special Halloween activity in the galleries and Visitor Assistants will be passing out treats. Costumes are encouraged! Tickets required. Oct. 29, 2022. Event details.

Spooky Shrinky Dinks
When it comes to Halloween events for kids in Boston it doesn't get better than this free experience where kids can join a spooky STEM Shrinky Dink Workshop to make ghosts, pumpkins, and monsters from fun shrinkable plastic. Oct. 19, 2022. Event details.

Related: Where Boston Families Can Pick the Perfect Pumpkin

kids in costumes run in a group after trick or treating with a house behind them
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Halloween Spooktacular
The Boston Children's Museum is where you'll find this spooktacular celebration that's fun and safe for little ghouls and goblins of all ages. This after-hours experience includes a pumpkin patch especially for little ones, pumpkin putt-putt, and a potion mixing activity for budding scientists. Don't forget the treats you'll get to leave with too. Tickets are required. Oct. 29, 2022. Event details.

Halloween at deCordova
Watch the harvest moon travel across the sky as you and your family complete a series of ghoulish activities, all inspired by mysterious artworks. Explore different disguises, create monstrous shadows and solve tantalizing mysteries! Make sure to pick up your treats after the tricks are completed. Oct. 21 & 28, 2022. Event details.

Frightful Fridays at the Gore Mansion
The Gore’s popular Halloween program returns this October! Enjoy spooky tales—but nothing too scary. The 45-minute program features five stories and occurs twice per evening at 6:30 p.m. and again at 7:45 p.m. Best for kids 6 & up. Oct. 14, 21 & 28, 2022. Event details.

Spooky Bones & Creepy Crawlers
Celebrate the scariest time of year with this show-and-tell-and-touch style event full of real animal skeletons and the creepiest of crawlies. Kids will learn about adaptations, and how the bodies of vertebrates and invertebrates accomplish the same tasks in different ways. Oct. 23, 2022. Event details.

Related: Where to Find Fall's Fabulous Colors around Boston

mother and son doing a craft at a table
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Fall-O-Ween Children's Festival
Come dance and party during the afternoon at the Fall-o-Ween Bash. This free, family-friendly event, hosted by the City, will also include lots of spooky activities and giveaways for all ages. Halloween costumes are encouraged. Oct. 22, 2022. Event details.

Halloween Hullabaloo
It’s Halloween weekend at the Discovery Museum. Challenge yourself to a few holes of Pumpkin Putt Putt and other outdoor games with a frightfully fun twist. Use your powers of observation on a Spooktacular Scavenger Hunt, and expect other ghostly surprises to pop up around the Museum. Costumes are encouraged. Psst...don't forget this sense-ational scavenger hunt also at the museum in October. Oct. 29 & 30, 2022. Event details.

Ghostly Garden Scavenger Hunt
Join in on this spooky outdoor scavenger hunt where you decipher a series of hints to find hidden Halloween-themed destinations tucked away throughout the thickly-settled plots and trellises of the Berkeley Community Garden. Costumed characters will be handing out treats (no tricks), so wear your costume and bring a trick-or-treat bag and flashlight. Oct. 22, 2022. Event details.

Minni Workshop: Slime Science
Slime scientists ages 4-10 will be lining up for Minni’s spookiest and gooiest workshop yet. Grab your cauldrons and create creepy concoctions in Minni's Halloween Slime workshop. Kids will make the most of three different slimy interpretations of everything Halloween, beginning with fluffy pumpkin slime, and concluding with a bubbly witches brew. Oct. 30, 2022. Event details.

Minni Workshop: Spooky Houses
Another chance to join a Minni workshop, kids will love this spooky take on architecture. Kids ages 4-10 will use an exciting medley of recycled and craft materials to design their own facades complete with towering turrets and ghastly gargoyles. Perfect for spooky season. Oct. 29, 2022. Event details.

Related: Mark Your Calendars! Boston's Best Fall Festivals for Families

kids sit on hay bales in the fall with pumpkins for halloween events
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Costume Parade
Put on your costume and meet others in the Children’s Library on Halloween to get the day started. There will be a storytime and then kids can parade around the library. Oct. 31, 2022. Event details.

Boo in the Barnyard
It’s almost Halloween—time to show off your costumes! The animals at Weir River Farm love to see kids dressed up for Halloween. Wear your costume and meet Nutmeg the pony, Ruby the llama, Poppy the goat, and Dixie the potbellied pig, as well as other farm animals. Kids will love the scavenger hunt, craft, and the taste of a sweet treat.Registration is required. Oct. 8, 15, 21 & 29, 2022. Event details.

Halloween Puppet Show
In this special Halloween show, Tom helps Freddy the Troll see that he doesn’t have to be scared of children. The vibrant and amusing visual elements will appeal to children as young as 2, while fun lyrics will engage children up to twelve, and adults, too. It’s a great way to celebrate Halloween with the family. Oct. 26, 2022. Event details.

Halloween on the Hill
The folks at Long Hill are excited to bring back Halloween on the Hill. Come explore the beautiful property as it's transformed into a celebration of autumn and the Halloween season. Expect a few new surprises this year as you follow the trail that features over 1,000 jack-o'-lanterns, hundreds of mums and pumpkins, elaborate Halloween sets, light displays, music, and more. Wed.-Sun., Sep. 30-Oct. 31, 2022. Event details.

Boo at the Zoo
Thrills, chills, and animals await you at Stone Zoo's Boo at the Zoo, where children throughout New England are invited to trick-or-treat among the animals. You never know what lurks around every corner on the trick-or-treat trail. Kids will also enjoy ghoulish games and a costume contest in addition to watching animals enjoy their pumpkin enrichments. Oct. 22 & 23, 2022. Event details.

Related: 9 Magical Treehouses Families Can Actually Rent in New England

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22 Holiday Train Rides to Book before They Sell Out

by Taylor Clifton

It’s a known fact that the best way to get in the holiday spirit is aboard a holiday train ride, complete with hot cocoa and Christmas carols

The most magical Christmas train rides are back for the 2022 holiday season, but you better watch out—they’re filling up fast! From the Polar Express train ride to vintage steam locomotives decked all out in Christmas lights, we’ve mapped out our favorites from around the country, so you can find the perfect train to board this winter. 

To really get in the holiday spirit, deck out the whole family in matching holiday PJs and practice all the Christmas carols on the way there. It’s going to be a night to remember!

Holiday Train Rides in the West

Guy Rhodes

Polar Express | Jamestown, CA
Experience a Polar Express off the beaten track when you head up into the California foothills to Jamestown, a historic gold rush town perfectly preserved for your holiday photo backdrops. All Class tickets enjoy hot chocolate and yummy cookies as you ride along with many of the story’s characters. Once you reach the North Pole, the jolly old elf–Santa himself–will come on board to give each passenger a silver sleigh bell, the “first gift of Christmas.”

Online: railtown1897.org

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California Railroad Museum Polar Express | Sacramento, CA
The California State Railroad Museum’s Polar Express ride has everything your little elf wants in a magical experience. What really sets this railroad adventure apart is the special, vintage train cars where all the fun happens. Once you reach the North Pole, the jolly old elf—Santa himself—will come on board to give each passenger the first gift of Christmas, a silver sleigh bell. Be sure to book your tickets soon!

Online: californiarailroad.museum

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The Napa Valley Wine Train Santa Train | Napa, CA
They pull out all the stops each year, as the Wine Train fills with the sounds of the season. Guests will be treated to sing-a-longs, games, and stories, as they deliver Jolly the Bear to the North Pole. On the way back, fairies will collect letters for Santa, and the big guy himself will hand out toy bears. It's a fun-filled, action-packed journey, suitable for all ages.

Online: winetrain.com

Related: All Aboard! Magical Holiday Train Rides in the Bay Area

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Santa Train | North Bend, WA
The Northwest Railway Museum’s Santa Train has been making the trek from the North Bend depot to Santa’s Workshop (in Snoqualmie) since 1969. The trip includes a stop where families disembark for a meet and greet with Santa and his elves. They’ll find cookies and cocoa there, as well as treats to help pass the time as they wait for the all-important photo op.

Online: trainmuseum.org

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Durango-Silverton Polar Express | Durango, CO
Seeing the old narrow-gauge train lumbering loudly down the track, prettied up for the Christmas season, your little conductor might just think he’s stepped into the classic story this Polar Express ride is named for. The movie magic continues to unfold as families sip hot cocoa, sing songs, and nibble warm cookies while the train glides over snowy tracks on its way to the North Pole. They arrive to see Santa and the boy sitting in his sleigh, receiving the first gift of Christmas. On the return trip, wide-eyed onlookers relive this magic moment aboard the train, when they get serious face time with Santa and their own tiny tinkling bell to keep.

Online: durangotrain.com

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Nevada Northern Railway Polar Express | Ely, NV
Hop on board the Nevada Northern Rail, aka Santa’s Reindeer Flyer, to kick your holiday season into high gear. Passengers will board the train at the depot in Ely, Nevada before starting their trip to the North Pole. As they ride, they’ll get to hear the exciting story of Santa’s Reindeer Flyers, where both Christmas and the NNR need saving. Kids will have a chance to meet Santa when they finally arrive at the North Pole, whisper in his ear, and even deliver a Christmas letter directly to the Big Man. And, yes, pajamas are very much in style on this ride. 

Online: nnry.com

Holiday Train Rides in the Southwest

Grapevine Convention & Visitors' Bureau

Grapevine North Pole Express | Grapevine, TX
Grapevine’s North Pole Express is a standing favorite among Texas families, and we can see why. This year, expect to hop aboard the festively decorated Grapevine Vintage Railroad train cars, where you’ll be greeted by jolly elves handing out souvenir mugs filled with Frosty Snow Milk. Then it’s on to Reindeer Ridge to meet up with Mrs. Claus, who hands out special bells to each child aboard. It all ends with a Christmas stage spectacular featuring Santa himself, and a post-show photo session your little one won’t soon forget!

Find out more: grapevinetexasusa.com

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The Magical Christmas Journey | Clarkdale, AZ
It turns out that Santa and Mrs. Claus like winter in the desert, too. Families can take a Magical Christmas Journey with the jolly pair all season long. It starts at the railroad depot, where kids can get a bird’s eye view of a lighted Christmas town. Then it’s time to board the train (with inside and outside seating options) for a one-hour journey that takes families through a tunnel before emerging at the North Pole on the other side. Once there, riders get to meet Santa and his elves for photos and a simple gift.

Insider tip: Check out the perks that come with the Magical Journey VIP Kids’ Club to add a bit more magic to your holiday experience.

Online: verdecanyonrr.com

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Grand Canyon Railway & Hotel Polar Express | Williams, AZ
Before The Polar Express made it to the big screen, back when it was just a classic children’s story, the Grand Canyon Railway was bringing it to life in the wilderness of Williams, Arizona. Just like in the book, the 60-minute ride leaves a sleepy town and heads out into the forest before a clearing in the trees reveals the North Pole, brightly lit for all to see. Don't forget to wear your Christmas jammies! Make this a family holiday tradition and make your reservations today, as space is limited.

Insider Tip: While you can definitely come for the train, many families tack on an overnight stay at the historic Grand Canyon Hotel to fully take in the magic of the season.

Online: thetrain.com

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The North Pole Flyer | Austin, TX
Everything's bigger in Texas, including a ride on the North Pole Flyer, a special two-hour excursion on a diesel locomotive that features a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus, all-you-can-drink hot cocoa, and a holiday cookie. Each car is decorated for the season where passengers enjoy a live reading of The North Pole Flyer—the railway's own personalized holiday book. Santa “checks your list twice” and poses for photographs before handing out a gift to each child. 

Tip: This trip’s usually sold out by Oct., so if you’re thinking about getting tickets, make the move soon.

Find out more: austinsteamtrain.org

Holiday Train Rides in the Midwest

holiday express polar express train
South Dakota Department of Tourism

Holiday Express on the 1880 Train | Hill City, SD
Holiday revelers can board the oldest continuous running tour railroad in the country for the Holiday Express. The one-hour ride takes visitors through the beautiful Black Hills to the North Pole on the 1880 Train (which gets a holiday makeover of its own) while snacking on cookies, a sweet treat, and hot chocolate! When the train stops, Santa gets on and hands out a small sleigh bell to every kiddo. It’s the perfect holiday tradition.

Online: 1880train.com

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The Polar Express with the Branson Scenic Railway | Branson, MO
Ride to the North Pole and pick up Santa for this magical ride. During the trip, the book "The Polar Express ™" is read aloud and hot chocolate and cookies are served by the Chefs. Santa joins the ride at the North Pole and visits each car giving each passenger a special gift. Christmas carolers and the hobo are also on board the train for extra merriment.

Online: bransontrain.com

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The Polar Express with the French Lick Scenic Railway | French Lick, IN
Hot cocoa and cookies are waiting for your aboard the Polar Express in this fabulous journey that the little ones won't soon forget. Don your jammies and bring all your holiday cheer to meet Santa and his crew aboard the French Lick Scenic Railway as it is transformed for the holiday season. 

Online: frenchlickthepolarexpressride.com

 

Holiday Train Rides in the Southeast

polar express train with santa christmas
Blue Ridge Scenic Railway

Blue Ridge Scenic Santa Express | Blue Ridge, GA
Just a day trip from Atlanta, The Blue Ridge Scenic Railroad’s collection of antique trains that run between Blue Ridge and McCaysville, Georgia includes The Santa Express during the holidays. Go for the Christmas stories, songs, and characters—including Santa, of course—and enjoy checking out the quaint town of Blue Ridge following the trip. Children will receive a Blue Ridge Scenic Railway jingle bell, candy cane, and activity packet while on board. 

Online: brscenic.com

Related: Ride the Rails: 5 Holiday Train Rides Near Atlanta

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Denton Farmpark’s Country Christmas Train | Denton, NC
‘Tis the season to take a ride on the Handy Dandy Railroad. It’s all part of the holiday activities at the Denton Farm Park, where families can sing carols and hear a Christmas story or two at the church, meet animal friends at the petting zoo, and of course, board the festive train to tour the park and enjoy the lights. Settle in to watch the story of the Nativity while you’re on board. Don’t forget to check out the wagon and pony rides after you sit for a pic with Santa (additional fees apply).

Online: dentonfarmpark.com

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Great Smoky Mountains Polar Express Train Ride | Bryson City, NC
The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad’s Polar Express train is one of the best around. The ride mirrors sweet details from the movie, right down to the music playing overhead. At the halfway point of this just-over-an-hour-long round trip, the train will stop at the North Pole to pick up Santa, so he can hand out a special gift to each little boy and girl aboard. Expect music, dancing, and sing-along carols! Plan on arriving one hour before your departure time.

Online: gsmr.com

Related: 17 Winter Wonderlands That Go Crazy for Christmas

Holiday Train Rides in the Northeast

ADK/Mark Simmon

Polar Express on the Adirondack Scenic Railroad | Utica, NY
All aboard for a two-hour round trip ride that leaves from Utica Station and arrives at the North Pole! Guests will interact with hot chocolate chefs, listen to The Polar Express (narrated by Liam Neeson) and have a meet-and-greet with the jolly man in red. Pajamas are encouraged! In order to ensure that you are able to travel on your desired dates, please make reservations early as this event sells out every year.

Online: adirondackrr.com

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The Polar Express with the Catskill Mountain Railroad | Kingston, NY
The magic of Christmas is here as soon as you board the Polar Express and set out for the North Pole. Santa's helpers will be onboard to read this famous story to your family and Santa will board to take pictures with kids and celebrate the holiday season. 

Online: catskillmountainrailroad.com

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Santa Christmas Tree Express | Honesdale, PA
Your Kiddos can't wait to see Santa and choose your Christmas tree? Well, here's a way to do both in the same trip! The Stourbridge Line in Honesdale runs train rides to Dein Nurseries where you can choose your own Christmas tree, sip hot chocolate on the way there,  and be greeted by a happy Santa. Passengers will have approximately one hour to visit Santa and choose and purchase that special Christmas tree. The trees are loaded onto the train's flatcar. The staff from Dein Nurseries will assist you in securing it to your vehicle at the Honesdale Station for an additional cost of $10.

Online: poconomountains.com

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Western Maryland Scenic Railroad’s Polar Express | Cumberland, MD
Take a magical ride over bridges and through tunnels from the Cumberland Station to the North Pole and back on WMR’s Polar Express train ride. You’ll meet Santa, of course, but not before enjoying a platform show, a reading of the beloved children’s book (complete with dancing waiters) and cookies and cocoa to fill your bellies. Dress in your holiday jammies to fit in with the other passengers, and make sure to bring your phone is fully charged to capture those magical memories digitally. You’ll look back on this ride for years to come!

Online: wmsr.com

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New Hope Railroad Santa's Steam Spectacular | New Hope, PA
A leisurely journey through beautiful Bucks County is what you’ll find on Santa’s Steam Spectacular adventure aboard the historic #40 steam locomotive. On board, your kids will be among many others sporting their red and green pajama best, each one clamoring to get a glimpse of Santa and Mrs. Claus. While they’re eagerly awaiting a visit from Santa, kids and their parents can sip hot cocoa, snack on cookies, and sing Christmas tunes.

Tip: Be sure to order your commemorative Santa photo to remember this special holiday trip.

Online: newhoperailroad.com

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Holiday Trains on the Strasburg Rail Road | Ronks, PA
The Strasburg Rail Road Christmas trains are a bonanza of holiday goodness because they don’t offer just one train. They’ve got three festive rides for families! Santa’s Paradise Express runs from just after Thanksgiving through Dec. 22nd, and it’s a great way to take the family on the oldest operating train in the U.S. for a meet-and-greet with Santa. You can also book a passage on the Night Before Christmas Train, where a stocking-capped reader will recite the classic Christmas poem to jammie-clad kids as they click-clack along the track. Then there’s Santa’s Christmas Trolley, especially for kids 11 and younger. It’s a chance to sit on Santa’s lap during a 45-minute out-and-back trip to Paradise.

Online: strasburgrailroad.com

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5 Sanity-Saving Hacks for Seattle Parents

by Allison Sutcliffe

Family life is busy, and with the start of the school year on the horizon, it’s even busier. Between after school activities, trying to get a dinner on the table, and carving out time for family fun, there’s barely a minute to spare. If you’re feeling pressed for time, these Seattle-area companies can simplify your hectic routine and maybe even give you back a few minutes of much-needed family time. From dinner hacks to an easy way to sell your stuff, pepper your life with these Seattle parent hacks when you need a minute.

This article is sponsored by InnovAsian Cuisine, a world-class provider of pre-packaged, frozen Asian component meals, appetizers and sides. From the freezer aisle to your kitchen table, your kiddos can enjoy a delicious meal in less than 20 minutes. Made with quality white meat chicken and flavorful chef-crafted sauces, InnovAsian Cuisine offers restaurant-quality meals that will delight the whole family. Click here for inspiration for your next dinner.

a woman holds two stacked cardboard boxes to sell

courtesy Sella

When unused stuff is piling up…

It’s amazing how much gear kids require. From their first bucket carseat through their last pair of soccer cleats, there’s a constant flow of outgrown and no-longer-used stuff cycling through our homes. Who has the time to sort through the piles and pass them along, donate them or try to sell them online? That’s what inspired one Pacific Northwest dad to create Sella. An online service that pairs busy families with expert sellers so you can “turn your clutter into cash.” The process is pretty simple. Gather up all that unused Kindle, the baby carrier your kiddo has outgrown, or the baby monitor you don’t need anymore, because baby (finally!) sleeps through the night. Then ship it all out to Sella. They take it from there, snapping pics, listing it on different sites, and writing the listing. All that’s left is for you to approve the listing and wait for it to sell. What will you do with all that free time and space?

Insider Tip: Sella has plans to launch locally in Seattle so parents can drop-off items in person soon, but for now mail-in is how to get things done.

Find out more: hellosella.com

kids reading books on the couch upside down together

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When your bookshelf needs a boost…

How lucky are we that Seattle is home to so many amazing indie bookstores? Some love to leave new books in Free Little Libraries around town. Some host storytimes and author meet and greets for kids. Others help parents keep their kid’s bookshelf fresh with a monthly subscription box. We’re big fans of Phinney Books’ Phinney By Post Kids program that delivers a new picture book to your doorstep monthly or every other month. What could be easier? The books are aimed at kids ages birth through five, and are hand-selected by the discerning staff at Phinney Books. While they have a lot things they take into consideration when selecting the books, the one that matters most to parents is that your kids will want to read it over and over and over again.

Insider Tip: If you’re short on time, but aren’t quite sold on a new book a month, call your local bookstore to get recommendations. Trust us, they know their stuff and have spot-on picks for every kid.

Find out more: phinneybooks.com

Related: 7 Great Indie Bookstores for Pint-Sized Bookworms

When your kiddo needs something new to do…

If you’ve got a toddler you know how quickly they move from one toy to the next. They’re a physical embodiment of the “ohh! squirrel!” phenomenon. And while we know how much you’d love to spend all day playing dress-up, reading stories, or heading out on the next pretend Paw Patrol rescue with them, there’s only so much time in a day to play. Enter Sensa Play Rentals, a parent-owned, Seattle company that makes gorgeous sensory play kits for kids, delivers them to your door, and even picks them up one week later. It’s what every kid wants (and every parent needs).

Find out more: facebook.com/SensaPlayRentals

Related: 11 Totally Useful Delivery Services Seattle Parents Need

When you need to get dinner on the table….

This Tukwila-based company has been helping Seattle families get dinner on the table since 1998. For those nights when sports, or theater, or working late leave you pressed for time, you can grab an Innovasian frozen protein, choose a family-friendly recipe, and have dinner ready in around 30 minutes. Inventive dinner ideas, like Asian Chicken & Waffles or Simple and Easy Spam Musubi are kid crowd-pleasers that fill them up just in time to shuttle them out the door (or maybe off to bed?) again.

Insider Tip: Follow them on Instagram for creative ways to use Innovasian’s entrees, sides, and apps.

Find out more: eatinnovasian.com

When you missed your trip to the Farmer’s Market…

Although you had high hopes for your pandemic garden, it’s a little overgrown at this point. And strolling the Farmer’s Market just isn’t in the cards this week. Let local Seattle farmers help get fresh produce from their fields to your fridge when you sign up for a fall or winter CSA share. In fact, it’s the right time to sign up for the next share with local farms like Skylight Farms, Local Color Farm & Fibre, Jubilee and Full Circle. (Hint: These are just a few of the local area farms growing fresh veggies right now). Then it’s as easy as picking them up on your way home from work (or after your last playdate) to have your fridge stocked for the week ahead.

Related: Unbox Farm-Fresh Produce, Flowers (& More) with These Seattle CSAs

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7 Ways to Make Homework Fun (Seriously!)

by Erica Loop

Make homework fun by changing the way you look at it

Your kids just spent all day at school. And now you’re asking them to do what? Homework? Hey, that’s kind of like having school at home. After an entire day of paper, pencils, and books, your child may resist (and that’s putting it politely) getting down to business during the after-school hours. Don’t stress out. Whether your child has to study a vocab list, do a few zillion math equations, or finish a few extra assignments, we’re sharing seven tips that can magically transform homework from a super-struggle to some serious fun!

kids working on homework
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1. Work Together
Why not be hands-off when it comes to your kid’s homework, while still working beside one another? Return emails, answer your co-worker’s texts or work on the PTA fundraiser, modeling focused work to your child as the two of you spend QT together. If you think this seems like you’re not paying attention to your child or you’re slacking when it comes to parenting—you aren’t. Instead, you’re creating a shared workspace where the two of you can get business done together.

2. Get Creative
Sitting like a statue and calculating problem after problem on a math worksheet isn’t exciting, so consider turning a study session into an all-out artsy adventure! As your kid reads a chapter from the assigned text, use the opportunity as a chance to put on a play. If not acting, paint out math problems, sculpt letters or turn American history into a song.

Other ideas (perfect for older kiddos) include more sophisticated setups like creating a series of paintings explaining a text the child is trying to interpret or interpreting a poem using their musical notes. Kindergarten-aged kids set can get back to basics and finger paint letters, make clay characters from a story or bang on pots and pans to learn about patterns or counting.

RELATED: 11 Math Games That Equal Tons of Fun

dads making homework fun
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4. Take It Outside
If there’s an outdoor space where they can spread out and study in your home, encourage it. A study showed that workers saw a 45% increase in productivity after being outside for about 30 minutes. Plus, offering up 10-minute breaks in the sun is a huge perk.

4. Make It a Group Effort
Start a study group. Have your kiddo invite classmates to read, write and do math equations together. If your student is old enough to handle organizing and delegating, take a step back and let your kid take on a leadership role. Younger kids may need more help—think of this as a mini-educational play date for them.

make homework fun with an awesome workstation
Danny Piassick via Ellen Grasso & Sons, LLC

5. Design an Awesome Workspace
Take a page from some of the coolest places on Earth to work. Google, Apple and other tech giants all have fab workspaces for their employees. Why? To increase productivity. Create a communal workstation that all your kids (or all your family) can share instead of sending your little learners off to their room alone. Mix it up with a tall desk (by using a shelf), so your child can stand and work, or swap out desk chairs for a yoga ball or a twisty stool.

RELATED: 17 At-Home Learning Spots to Keep Kids on Track

6. Engage the Senses
There is a reason those darned pop-its were suddenly in every kid’s hands. While engaging their sense of touch, smell or sight might seem like a distraction, it helps them focus. Try doing a sensory activity like making your playdough. You can also engage other senses: Stash a stress ball in the homework area to engage the sense of touch or play white noise to break the quiet distracting to your child.

7. Hold Office Hours
Your child needs some homework help. Instead of hovering (no helicopters here) or taking over and writing your very own book report, set up office hours—just like your college professors did. Make the living room couch or the dining room table into your “office.” The kids can schedule a time to ask questions or can come to your “open hours.” This lets you help your child without actually doing the work yourself

 

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Cool Off at These Splash-tastic Water Playgrounds

by April Hasson

As the temperature continues to creep up this summer, there are number of ways to beat the heat—kayaking with kids in Portland is one option, escape town and hang out in Sauvie Island, or you can find your way to one of Portland’s popular natural swimming holes nearby. But if your looking for a quick way to beat the heat, head to one of these local splash pads where little and bigs can cool down for free! Fortunately, Portland Parks have loads of interactive fountains and splash pads throughout the city that are just begging to be splashed around in—and guaranteed, no matter what quadrant you’re in, one is bound to be nearby.

The Best Splash Pads in Northwest Portland

Jamison Square Fountain: The cascading waterfalls of the Jamison Square Fountain are mesmerizing, and a much-needed respite on a hot day. The water pools into a shallow area before receding again and recirculating. Kiddos love climbing the rocks and sitting in the water streams. Once the kids have had their fill of cooling off in the fountain, head across the street to Cool Moon Ice Cream—one of our favorite ice cream shops for a home-made ice cream cone or sorbet.

Fun fact: the 30-foot-tall sculptures along the park, which cover streetcar poles, are called Tikitotemoniki Totems.

810 NW 11th Ave.
Portland
Online: portland.gov/parks/jamison-square

Essex Park: This cute hidden park near Holgate Library has a splash pad, playground, picnic tables and a basketball court. For a great day, first stop by the library to browse a large selection of children's books at the Multnomah County Library, then enjoy a picnic at the park while your little adventurers splash away.

SE 79th Ave. & Center St.
Online: portlandoregon.gov

Earl Boyles Park: Here, you’ll find a splash pad at this outer southeast park, as well as a playground with a colorful climbing structure, picnic tables, walking paths and a horseshoe pit. There's even a volley ball court for the more competitive members of your family. 

SE 107th Ave. & Francis St.
Portland
Online: portlandoregon.gov

The Best Splash Pads in Northeast Portland

Irving Park: This spacious park has it all, from shady trees and a baseball field to basketball courts and a popular playground. Adjacent to the playground your water lovers can wet their tiny toes in the refreshing sprayground, with a splashing fire hydrant and other fun water structures.

NE 7th Ave. & Fremont St.
Portland
Online: portlandoregon.gov

Grant Park: Fans of Beverly Cleary books will love seeing their favorite characters come to life at this Ramona-inspired fountain. While splashing their feet in the water, kids can check out the sculptures of Ramona, Henry Huggins and Ribsy the Dog. The park also has an adjacent playground and tennis courts, so it’s the perfect spot to spend a full afternoon enjoying the summertime sunshine.

NE 33rd Ave & US Grant Pl.
Portland
Online: portlandoregon.gov 

Khunamokwst Park: This fun little park in the Cully neighborhood features a nature-based stream, complete with interactive hand pump and river rocks to wade along, leading to a shallow pooled area. This is perfect for a young child who loves to explore. After wading, be sure to check out the pinecone sculpture near the playground, which represents the Native American story of the Douglas Fir and the Mouse. Kʰunamokwst Park is the first Portland Parks and Rec park to have an indigenous name, respecting the history of this land.

5200 NE Alberta St.
Portland
Online: portland.gov/parks/kkunamokwst-park                                               

The Best Splash Pads in North Portland

Peninsula Park: On a hot day, enjoy the respite of the 16-acre shady, tree-lined Peninsula Park. The splash pad is located in the heart of the park, near the two playgrounds (one for younger children, one for older), and adjacent to the public restrooms. The water-spouting “flowers” are a kid-favorite.

Fun fact: Peninsula Park was Portland’s first public rose garden.

700 N Rosa Parks Way
Portland
Online: portland.gov/parks/peninsula-park

Columbia Park: The gigantic flower fountains and movable jet sprays make the sprayground at this beautiful tree-shaded park a Portland favorite. With water play, plenty of picnic tables and a playground that kids love, Columbia Park will quickly become your summer play date meetup spot.

N Lombard St. & Woolsey Ave.
Portland
Online: portlandoregon.gov

Farragut Park: Kiddie “car wash” structures, bubbling fountains and water sprays are some of the fun splash pad fixtures at this 14-acre park. You’ll also find basketball courts, walking paths, picnic tables and a play structure that will keep the kids busy until they tire out on those perfect summer days.

N Kerby Ave. & N Farragut St.
Portland
Online: portlandoregon.gov

McCoy Park:The interactive fountain at McCoy Park is a family fave! Children of all ages will love chasing the dancing fountains, which shoot upwards of 12-feet high, in spurts of unpredictable aquatic excitement. While drying off, take a stroll toward the playground on a quest to find the squirrel and salmon sculpture benches, and walk the circular pathway showcasing different phases of the moon. There is also important Black History in Portland here: McCoy Park is named after Bill and Gladys McCoy, local African-American political leaders. In 1970, Gladys McCoy was the first African-American to serve on the Portland School Board.

N Trenton St. and Newman Ave.
Portland
Online: portland.gov/parks/mccoy-park

The Best Splash Pads in Southwest Portland

Elizabeth Caruthers Park: For tiny tots just getting ready to test the waters, this simple yet delightful round stepping stone splash pad is a treat. For those who are tired of the water, there's a bocce court and unpaved paths to explore.

3508 SW Moody Ave.
Portland
Online: portlandoregon.gov

Salmon Street Springs at Waterfront Park: If you want to hear shrieks of summer happiness, head down to the waterfront and let your kids catch the spray at Salmon Street Springs. A computer controls the three changing patterns of water, named “misters,” “bollards,” and “wedding cake.” Kids will have a great time trying to guess which is which. With an impressive 185 jets of water and riverfront views, this is one spot that you’ll want to add to your summer bucket list.

Naito Parkway at SW Salmon
Portland
Online: portlandoregon.gov

Teachers Fountain at Director Park: Located in the heart of downtown Portland, this cheery plaza offers shady seating, a giant chess board, and a fun interactive fountain area. Kiddos will love chasing the arcing jets that splash into a shallow pool area. Adults will enjoy sitting along the wall to soak tired feet in the refreshing water. If you get hungry or thirsty, Flying Elephants Deli is located across the street, which is open weekdays from 8:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.

815 SW Park Ave.
Portland
Online: portland.gov/parks/director-park

Spring Garden Park: Located in this picturesque Multnomah Village park, the interactive water feature at Spring Garden Park provides hours of fun. Also onsite are musical instrument installations, a large lookout tower play structure, and the intriguing “nest” sculpture by Hannes Wingate. The playground meets all current ADA requirements.

3332 SW Spring Garden St.
Portland
Online: portland.gov/parks/spring-garden-park

The Best Splash Pads in Southeast Portland

Earl Boyles Park: Bring along some horseshoes to work up a sweat in the horseshoe pit before hitting up the splash pad at Earl Boyles Park. Located in the Powellhurst-Gilbert neighborhood, the park also features an accessible spray feature, a volleyball court, and has an accessible Portland Loo onsite for potty breaks. Fun fact: Earl Boyles was a well-loved janitor at the former Powellhurst Elementary School for nearly 20 years in the 1930s and 40s. The park was named after him.

SE 107th Ave. and Francis St.
Portland
Online: portland.gov/parks/earl-boyles-park

Colonel Summers Park: One of the newer splash pad installations in the Portland Parks system is at Colonel Summers Park, which features small climbing rocks and sitting areas. The park also hosts a playground, basketball court and tennis courts, so there’s something for everyone! Grab some picnic fixings at Market of Choice on your way over to make a day of it.

SE 17th Ave. and Taylor St.
Portland
Online: portland.gov/parks/colonel-summers-park

 

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The Best Bay Area Delis for All Your Sandwich Cravings

by Sandra Lee

Italian submarine? Pastrami on rye? Classic BLT? Sandwiches are the perfect on-the-go lunch, park and picnic snack, not to mention, is a favorite meal option when you just don’t want to cook dinner that night. Good thing the Bay Area has some amazing delis. Here’s our must-stop spots whether you’re hitting up a play date or when you’re about to hit the road.

Best Delis around San Francisco

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Clancey’s Market and Deli - Outer Sunset 
Clancey’s is a convenience store and deli and in true, old-school manner, doesn’t have a website but rather, uses Facebook instead. Our suggestion on what to nosh? Owner Sean and master sandwich maker Raul's "The Raging Cajun"—a must-try with cajun turkey and jalapenos. For the kids? Keep it classic with their BLT with avocado. 

Submarine Center - West Portal
This small, low-key Italian-style deli has perfected the combination of toasted bread and sauce—not too much and not too little. The roast beef is literally, "everyone's favorite."

Deli Board SF - SoMa
What started as a catering business took off and became a very popular sandwich spot in the city. Their “Sando Boards” all come with pickles on the side (check out "The Board for daily specials). Our sando pick? The "Carlze"—Romanian pastrami, brisket, provolone, cherry peppers, pickles, cole slaw, Board sauce on a garlic french roll. And for the kids? The "Stephanie"—tuna salad, bacon, American cheeses, sprouts, pickles, Board sauce on a french roll. 

Freddie’s Sandwiches - North Beach
With more than 20 different sandwich combinations on the menu, there is definitely something for everyone here. The Italian Combo is a winner, being in North Beach and all. Picky eaters will love the simple ham and cheese that is big on flavor. We love their "Skip the line, order online" feature—clutch with hangry kids in tow.

Best Delis in the East Bay

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Star Meats - Berkeley 
For quality meat on a roll, you can’t go wrong with a butcher shop and deli in one. Sandwiches change daily, depending on what's in store, and are available until sold out. Try the Raging Bull (turkey, salami and olives) on Sun., or the My Cousin Vinny (ham and mozzarella) on Tues. You can also call ahead to reserve a sandwich to guarantee you'll have your favorite before they sell out. 

Cheese ‘N’ Stuff - Berkeley
This East Bay deli is all about creating sandwiches that even the pickiest easter will love (there's a reason it's been voted 'Best Deli' since 1996!). Our favorite part? Sandwiches are stacked high with meat and cheese for the low price of $5. Now that’s hard to beat. 

Luigi’s Italian Deli - Concord
Luigi’s has been making sandwiches for over 40 years and is still going strong. We like the "Enrico Caruso" with roast beef and garlic mayo and the "Italian Dagwood" for a classic Italian sub while the kids will adore "Claire's Club Melt." They also have salads and fresh pasta which are equally delicious. 

Bara’s Deli - San Leandro
Family run since 1986, Bara’s deli is a favorite with East Bay families (and touted as East Bay's best kept secret—until now that is). The sandwiches are piled high, and classics like the Ruben and BLT are always a great choice. For specialty subs, check out "The Godfather" (Italian) and customer-inspired creations like the "Bam Bam" (roast beef and gouda) and the "Mario Brother" (meatball). For kids, you can't go wrong with the "Ultimate Grilled Cheese"—a grilled ciabatta filled with provolone, cheddar, muenster and havarti.

Best Delis on the Peninsula

The Sandwich Spot - Redwood City
Whether you choose the weekly special, an on-the-menu item or get your daily veggies allowance with the Mean Lean Veggie Machine, all of the sandwiches at this hip and cool Redwood City deli are downright delicious. Make a special trip on Wed. for "Coco’s Tri-Tip" special. 

Little Luca Specialty Shop - South San Francisco
While the deli is unassuming on the outside, this small, family-owned shop is a favorite and always draws a queue. The subs are big (enough to share between two people or more) and the secret sauce—garlic and hot pepper—which really makes these subs stand out from the rest. 

Golden 9th Deli - San Mateo
For a no-fuss ham and cheese on white bread that both kids and adults will love, Golden 9th is your place (not to mention one of the friendliest owners around). The cheese to meat to bread ratio is spot on and while you won’t get fancy sandwich combos here, you're guaranteed the best tasting classic sandwiches bar none.

Two Cousins Deli - Belmont
This family-owned business delivers sandwiches that are plentiful, and the chip wall is stacked with your favorite kind. We love the "Ham Pachino" and "Veggie Time" but they can also make a simple turkey and swiss for the kiddos. Bonus: they have breakfast sandwiches too.

Best Delis in the South Bay

 

Ike’s Love and Sandwiches - San Jose
This beloved sandwich spot with locations all over the Bay Area had to make our list. Every location has a slightly different menu, and we love the funky decor and creative names and combinations. The "Steph Curry" is a turkey and BBQ sauce sandwich, "Reading Rainbow" is all about the colorful veggies, and the "Matt Cain" has won a "Fanwich Award" for best sports sandwich. 

Beach Hut Deli - Morgan Hill
With locations all over California, the deli decor alone will transport you to a sandy beach with surfboards and palm trees no matter how far from the ocean you may be. The sandwiches are fantastic, with creative names like "Surfin’ Bird," "Beach Comber" and "Santa Cruz." Grab a seat outside under an umbrella and pretend you’re on vacation.

California Sourdough - San Jose
This San Jose deli has a pretty big following, with their classic sandwiches costing a $10 flat rate. Whether it’s roast beef, pastrami, or turkey, there's something for everyone in the family. Leave your credit card at home, this is a cash-only deli. 

Crust - Milpitas
For those sandwich lovers who are all about hot, freshly baked sourdough bread, check out this deli located in Milpitas. Know as one of the best in town, choose the turkey and salami sandwich known as "The Royal," and for the kids, order the "Three Cheese Ultimate." 

Best Delis in the North Bay & Marin County

Rozmary Kitchen - San Rafael
Catch these sandwiches at the farmer’s market on Thur. and Sun., or at Midwife and the Baker on Fri. The menu is small, with just five items but somehow covers all the cravings. The "K-Town" is a roast beef and poblano kimchi combo that will have you coming back for seconds while "Noni’s Eggplant" with eggplant, tomatoes and burrata is a refreshing as it sounds. You just can’t go wrong. 

Picnicky’s - Vallejo
For a sandwich that is made exactly how you want and perfectly packaged to eat on the go, stop by Picnicky’s before your next road trip. Of course their specialty sandwiches like the "Grand Salami" or "Mr. Cowboy" are well worth the drive to Vallejo—road trip or not.  

Davey Jones Deli - Sausalito
We love a menu that is grouped by type of meat or veggies. And best part? The ingredients are fresh, thoughtfully sourced and "will you make you strong like a lion." We like the "Vulcan Wrap" for vegans and the "Standard" for brisket lovers. 

Michael’s Sourdough - Novato
Freshly baked sourdough bread with its own starter is made daily at this North Bay deli, taking these sandwiches to a whole other level. With locations in Novato and San Rafael, we recommend trying the "Golden Gate" (turkey and ham combo), or the "Dusty Dog" with chicken and apple sausage with swiss cheese on sourdough bread.

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Get the Dirt on Veggie & Berry Picking in Chicago

by Maria Chambers

Make summer a little sweeter by picking your way through Chicago’s best spots for homegrown berries and other fruits and veggies. The U-pick berry season kicks off with strawberries in June and continues through early August, with veggies cropping up now through fall. Be sure to research your farm’s produce availability through their Facebook page and website before dusting off the wagons. Scroll down for u-picks that will help make this a summer to remember!

Tom's Farm Market

What was once a small farmstand over 40 years ago is now an expansive farm 50 miles northwest of Chicago, which includes 13 greenhouses where you can find anything from plant seedlings to hanging baskets and a bakery that features freshly baked seasonal fruit pies and cakes, cookies, scones and homemade breads. During strawberry picking season, pickers are treated to four acres with four different varieties and can recharge with made-to-order shakes and sundaes. Pickers will only find strawberries in the U-Pick fields, but the fresh market offers a selection of homegrown produce, including corn, summer squash, zucchini, cucumbers, tomatoes and peppers. Baskets are supplied for U-Pick and pickers pay by the pound.

In the neighborhood: Nearby Union is home to the Illinois Railway Museum, which houses over 375 pieces of equipment, including electric and steam locomotives and street, passenger and baggage cars. If you catch berry fever in July, coordinate a play date with Thomas and Percy at the Day Out with Thomas event planned for Jul. 9, 10, 16 & 17.

10214 Algonquin Rd., Huntley; Online: tomsfarmmarket.com

Heider's Berry Farm

Five generations of family have been running this farm that had a typical Midwestern start of raising hogs, sheep and chicken and producing dairy, oats and hay. Today their focus is on quality fruit, good customer service and offering families memorable, wholesome fun. Red raspberries and strawberries make up the bulk of their U-Pick business, but they also have rhubarbs, black raspberries, cherries, gold raspberries and homemade jams. There is no admission and parking is free.

In the neighborhood: Woodstock, was the location for many of the outdoor scenes shot for the Groundhog Day movie starring Bill Murray, so superfans can still take a peek at the most memorable shoot locations on a walking tour. If you’re in the area May-October on a Tuesday or Saturday morning, stop by the Farmers Market in downtown Woodstock’s historic square with vendors selling produce, knitted items, soaps, honey products, baked goods, cheese and more.

1106 N. Queen Anne Rd., Woodstock; Online: heidersberryfarm.com or get picking updates on their Facebook page

Olive Berry Acres

The growing season begins in May with traditional green and exotic purple asparagus at this seven-acre farm 70 miles southwest of Chicago. Fresh, sweet strawberries make up their U-Pick business, and they will hopefully be reintroducing their raspberries in the future. There is no entrance fee for picking and supplies are provided.

In the neighborhood: Grab a pastry to compliment your berries at Morris Bakery, browse the quaint shops in downtown Morris or hit up 3 French Hens Market held the second Saturday, May through October at Grundy County Fair Grounds. If you find yourself in the area for lunch, Letty Mae's Tea Room offers a made-from-scratch menu with decor reminiscent of an English Tearoom. Enjoy your meal on vintage mismatched china surrounded by kitschy decor or have it wrapped up for a picnic on the farm.

2575 W. Mine Rd., Mazon; Online: For picking updates on their Facebook page

 

Stade's Farm Market

Stade’s is famous for its popular Fall Festival, a fall blitz featuring live music, hayrides, a petting zoo and more. Leading up to the festival, you can visit this countryside paradise for U-Pick strawberries beginning in mid-June, raspberries in July, tomatoes and a variety of summer veggies in starting in July and pumpkins in September and October. Also available at the onsite market is homegrown asparagus, rhubarb, spinach, radishes and lettuce, as well as their privately harvested local honey. 

In the neighborhood: McHenry, Illinois is known for having a bustle of activity along the Fox River, so check out Stratton Lock & Dam and Fort McHenry Playground for picturesque outdoor fun. Authentic steam engines from the golden age of railroad are on display at the Illinois Railway Museum (if you go picking in July, double the fun with a Day Out with Thomas).

3709 W. Miller Rd., McHenry; Online: stadesfarmandmarket.com

Susie's Garden Patch

Asparagus launches the six-month u-pick season and pumpkins and fall squash close it down, with deliciously sweet strawberries, onions, spinach, rhubarb, lettuce, kale, radishes, garlic, peas and green beans available at different times in between. Have your own box or bag for picking weighed at the farm stand before you get started because you pay for produce by the pound.

In the neighborhood: Take in the collection of pre-World War II planes and automobiles and early 20th-century airplane hangars and automobile garages that have been salvaged and relocated to the Poplar Grove Vintage Wings and Wheels Museum.

10258 US Highway 20, Garden Prairie; Online: facebook.com/SusiesGardenPatch

— Maria Chambers

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I Can Be an Introvert and an Incredible Mom—Despite What I’ve Told Myself

By Amy Jorgensen

I am an introvert. Basically, I like quiet. I like to be alone. I like peace. And I’m a mom.

As you can imagine, being an introvert and being a mom don’t always mix. Introverts breathe in solace and breathe out society. Being around people, even little people, expends our energy. That doesn’t mean we hate it; it’s just tiring. ​Being alone restores us.

But finding sufficient alone time isn’t the only hard thing about being an introverted mother. I have a whole list: I hate playdates. Having them isn’t the issue. It’s setting them up: coordinating, scheduling, remembering, driving… Even when someone invites my kids to their house, it stresses me out. Ridiculous, I know. Especially because most of my children’s friends are my friends. And I love my friends. But here we are.

Doing cool stuff with my kids stresses me out. I mean, I can’t even buy groceries without worrying my children will be kidnapped (which unfortunately isn’t an illogical fear anymore). So why would I subject myself to a zoo or museum? We have a small list of comfort zones: home, the farm, grandma’s, the mountain, the ranch, and sometimes Hobby Lobby.

The idea of my child, let alone more than one, being in sports/dance/music lessons that require me to consistently drive them somewhere, remember things, and interact with other adults gives me major anxiety.

I don’t like to do my girls’ hair. Yes, I have four daughters and I don’t like doing their hair. Well, I like doing the baby’s hair. But everyone else cries or complains or tries to run away, and it all just becomes a fight. And I’m not really good at doing hair anyway so it never quite turns out how we imagine. Grandpa Todd started calling three-year-old Adeline “Tarzan” because she has long wild hair and is usually half-naked. It’s fine. Might as well be wild and half-naked while you can.

And I especially hate bedtime. The whole to-do list of bedtime. PJs. Teeth. Homework. The “you said we could…” or “we forgot to…”s. Ugh. The begging for snuggles and stories and heart-to-hearts while I’m exhausted and so done. All made worse by the anticipation of that quiet, peaceful, alone time I’ve been craving is enough to make me crazy.

I used to feel immense guilt for hating playdates and hair and bedtime. Over time, I started to deeply believe that I wasn’t a good mother. Everyone else seemed to do these things easily, so I thought that I should, too. I should put my kids in every available sport/class. I should have a play date for each child several times a week. I should learn how to do fancy hairdos. I should read to my kids before bed. I should snuggle with them. I should take them on dates. I should do more. I should be more.

The should list grew, and so did the stress and anxiety. I became the awful mother I believed I was. Then one night, my husband and I were able to get away and go to a movie without the kids: Avengers: Endgame. It was late, and I would have preferred sleeping, but I fought to keep my eyes open (because how often do you go to a movie without kids?), and I’m so glad I did.

Thor, or rather, the heavy, depressed, broken, and aimless version of Thor, goes back in time and runs into his mother. She says something at that moment that hit me so hard it felt like a physical blow. “Everyone fails at who they are supposed to be.” EVERYONE FAILS AT WHO THEY ARE SUPPOSED TO BE. EVERYONE. FAILS. AT. WHO. THEY. ARE. SUPPOSED. TO. BE.

I was trying to be who I thought I was supposed to be. I thought I was supposed to have playdates like Ashley. I thought I was supposed to do amazing hairdos like Kristy. I thought I was supposed to put my kids in every sport available like Lisa. I thought I was supposed to gently love my children to sleep every night like Marissa. I thought I was supposed to do cool stuff with my kids like Kara. I thought I was supposed to be something I’m not. No wonder I felt like I was failing.

So now, I’m being brave and working on playdates, but we don’t have them often, and that’s okay. I’ve learned a few hairstyles, but we keep it pretty and simple. I’m teaching my older girls to brush their own hair so I don’t have to. And that’s okay. We’ve signed our kids up for a few classes so they can learn what they like, but we also recognize all the amazing unique things they already do and get to experience. And it’s all okay. And bedtime. I don’t read bedtime stories; we read earlier. My older girls and I use a mommy & me journal to write down all those heart-to-hearts, and we love sneaking them under each other’s pillows. Each night we pray and kiss goodnight and that’s it. And that’s okay.

We do things differently than the Ashley’s and Kristy’s and Kara’s and that’s okay. My kids are happy. They are fulfilled and loved and thriving. And now so am I. I’m not failing because I’m learning to embrace myself, to be myself. I am an introvert—and a great mom.

Originally published Oct 2021.

Amy is a creator and believes everyone else is too. She strives to be artistic in all areas of life but writing is her passion and her family is her masterpiece. She uses her blog to address the joys and struggles of motherhood and is currently writing her first novel.

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Couple Wakes Up with a Strange Dog in Their Bed, Sweetest Story Ensues

by Julie Scagell

Dogs are determined to live their best lives. For one sneaky pup named Nala, that best life meant climbing into the warm bed of a neighbor’s house during a storm and snuggling right in. Did she know them? No. Did she care? Also no.

Julie Thornton Johnson shared a hilarious Facebook post about the situation, writing in part, “It is absolutely normal to wake up in our house with one of OUR dogs in the bed with us. One small problem, THIS IS NOT OUR DOG, nor do we know how she got in our house.” Johnson has three other dogs, Zeppelin, Hollis, and Jupiter, who didn’t seem to mind sharing space with their new friend.

Apparently, Nala got out during the day from her house and was wandering around the neighborhood. Johnson told The Mirror: “It started storming around 4 a.m. and I assume she was really scared of thunder and ran to the first house that smelled like friendly people and dogs.” As one does.

Johnson said she and her husband thought the dog was one of theirs in the dark but “they rarely lay on the pillows!” It wasn’t until daylight that they “realized we were snuggling with someone else’s dog.” Judging by the pictures, Nala looks entirely comfortable with her decision to break in and a bit miffed about all the fuss.

She continued: “This is the weirdest post I have ever had to make. Is this your dog?”

Later that day, Johnson posted an “update” letting concerned citizens know Nala’s mom was on her way. “Good luck getting her out of my bed mam,” she joked.

Just when you think this story can’t get any more adorable, it does. Turns out the Tennessee families have become fast friends and now get together for regularly scheduled playdates.

“Nala and her moms are no longer strangers to us,” Johnson shared. “Yesterday, our puppy play date was a lot of fun and the pups loved the attention and the ice cream. We also had a long talk to the four of them about asking permission before spend the night parties commence!”

Nala’s mom, Cris Hawkins, also posted about the ordeal, thanking the Johnsons for keeping her safe and having a sense of humor about it.

It’s just like dogs to bring humans together.

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