If you really want to up your game this holiday season, you’ll want to start with the main course. These delivery services are ready to bring the turkey, ham, rack of lamb and even sides to your home. There are even pasture-raised birds that you can feel good feeding your family. Place your order ASAP for those holiday parties!
Lewis Barbecue
Lewis Barbecue
You don't have to travel to Charleston to enjoy a meal from one of the best BBQ joints in the country. Lewis Barbecue ships its award-winning smoked meats, including whole brisket, pulled pork, and sausage, all across the country. Lewis also offers a tasty lineup of their signature all-purpose sauces perfect for elevating any summer dish. Your backyard barbecues will never be the same!
Porter Road began in 2010 as a way to get quality beef to consumers without the middleman. They've been shipping their hand-cut meat since 2017 and you can order beef, pork, lamb and chicken to be delivered to your door.
This holiday season, they are offering a number of holiday specials like frozen turkeys, rib roasts and whole tenderloins. Get your dinner and breakfast covered with one of the boxes that include Sage Sausage, Pork Bacon and Country Breakfast Sausage Patties (along with your choice of meat). All of their meat is pasture-raised and hormone-free and contains no antibiotics.
We know you'll love the father-daughter duo behind Flannery Beef just as much as we do. San Francisco native Bryan Flannery, Jr., learned the meat business from his father, Bryan Sr., who founded beloved Bryans Quality Meats in San Francisco in 1963. And now Bryan Jr. and his daughter, Katie, are the proud team behind Flannery Beef specializing in high-quality, USDA Prime Holstein Beef. The duo has worked tirelessly to source, cut and dry age the finest quality beef products available anywhere—and the effort has paid off.
Previously available only to chefs, Flannery Beef pivoted during COVID to get their beef, pork and lamb into the hands of consumers. Whether you are a filet mignon or New York steak family, Flannery has you covered. Their gift boxes are the perfect thank you gift for a neighbor and we love the burger blends to keep on hand during the grilling months.
KC Cattle Company is a veteran-owned company that sells hormone-free Wagyu beef raised on its own farms. It employs and mentors veterans and donates proceeds from sales to many veterans' foundations. All their cows are raised in a stress-free environment, so the beef is more tender and the cows are happy. No hormones or antibiotics and more omega-3 and omega-6 because of higher marbling and good fat.
Give the gift of wagyu beef to family and friends this holiday season or order up one of the holiday bundles for your own enjoyment.
Complete Thanksgiving Herb Roasted Turkey Breast Dinner from Williams-Sonoma
For a total no-brainer Thanksgiving meal with flavors like you won't believe, check out Williams-Sonoma. They offer heat-and-eat meal options that include turkey, prime rib, ham and more, plus all the fixin's you love. Whether you are planning a small soiree of four or a large group of 12, Williams-Sonoma has you covered.
With this easy pick-up meal, you'll get turkey, green bean casserole, mashed potatoes, cornbread and sausage stuffing, plus more of your holiday favorites. Order by Nov. 23 for in-store pickup.
Have a surplus of candy because there were fewer—or no—trick or treaters this year? Or perhaps your kids scored big and can’t possibly eat all of it. Donating your haul of Halloween candy to soldiers stationed abroad, neighborhood firefighters, and others will surely sweeten someone’s day. Keep reading to find out where to drop off the dulce, below.
Operation Troop Treats
iStock
Operation Troop Treats is the nation’s largest dentist-sponsored Halloween candy exchange benefiting U.S. Service Members and their families, teaching children about good dental health and the importance of giving back to those who serve our country.
Donate Halloween candy at any participating dental office nationwide from Nov. 1-6 and receive a toy in exchange for each child's candy donation. Local dental offices will send Operation Gratitude the donated candy, dental kits, and funds to cover the assembly and shipment of care packages for U.S. troops.
Click here to find out your nearest donation location.
Murphy-Harpst is a nonprofit residential treatment center in Atlanta that serves severely abused and neglected children and teenagers. It is an emotional, spiritual and physical safe haven, offering residential treatment, placements in specialized foster care, and community programs that serve at-risk young people and their families. And they'd love your excess candy to share with the children in their care!
Drop off or mail to Murphy-Harpst, Attention: Pam Kramer, 740 Fletcher St., Cedartown GA 30125
The Halloween Candy Give-Back Program gives families a way to donate surplus candy to deployed troops, veterans, and first responders with the goal of forging strong bonds between the civilian and service communities nationwide. This year, donation locations will not be set-up due to COVID-19; however, Operation Gratitude encourages donors to ship candy directly to them (OG Candy Processing Center, ATTN: Halloween Candy, 8967 Oso Ave., Building D, Chatsworth, CA 91311), or better yet, contact a local military base, veteran organization, or first responder department to see if they are interested and able to take the candy.
If you would like to register to donate excess Halloween Candy, click here.
Ronald McDonald House supports families with children battling illness by providing a "home away from home" while seeking treatment. Some local chapters of the Ronald McDonald House accept unopened, surplus candy donations.
Find a local chapter here. Contact the one closest to you to verify that they're taking donations before loading up you haul of sweet stuff!
Local fire stations are not only where the big hook and ladder trucks are stored, but they're also where firefighters live when they're on duty, waiting for an emergency call. And, while they usually keep it pretty healthy around the house, we're pretty sure everyone likes a little late night chocolate, now and then.
PAW Kids is a community organization that provides safety and sustenance. PAW House is a safe and loving after school enrichment program where students can find reading mentors, homework help, and more. Claudia's House is a neighborhood food pantry that offers daily meals for the community, meals for seniors, and more.
Donations can be dropped off at Claudia's House on Mon., Tues., & Thurs. from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Claudia's House is located at 1633 Donald Lee Hollowell Pkwy.
Tahoe’s secret season is upon us! Visitors flock to Tahoe for its slopes during the winter but its shoulder seasons are also magnificent. Having survived a harrowing fall with evacuations during the Caldor Fire, South Lake Tahoe is finally free from stifling heat and smoke making now the ideal time to visit. Follow our itinerary recommendations below so that your family can answer the call to the beckoning of fall colors and crisp autumn air—book your trip today!
To Do
Tahoe Trout Farm
Open April through October, Tahoe Trout Farm makes fishing easy for both the newbie and veteran fisher(wo)man. With no admission fees, bait and tackle provided and practically fail-proof catching of rainbow trout, kids will love catching their dinner (Mac Duff’s pub down the road will gladly turn your catch into dinner—more below).
Kayaking Take kids ages 5+ on a unique kayak tour in a completely transparent kayak! Clearly Tahoe offers Shoreline Tours through December and on clear days, the crystalline view will astonish kids with a 75 foot peek into the depths of Lake Tahoe!
Beaches Let little ones dip their toes (or more!) in the lake at either the gorgeous shores of Nevada Beach or walk/bike along El Dorado Beach.
Biking Didn’t bring your bikes? No worries—Tahoe Bike Company has you covered! With beach cruisers, surreys and mountain bikes for rent, your crew will be ready to cruise on the miles of bike path around the lake.
Hiking Nearby Van Sickle Bi-State Park has several trails varying in length but our favorite trail, the Tahoe Rim Trail, starts outside the park. With a small parking lot just for this trailhead, a short ⅓ of a mile hike brings you to a vista with unobstructed, sweeping views of the lake. Continue up the trail and follow signs for the waterfall for another mile where a bridge will cross over the waterfall.
Good to know: Coming from the pancake-flat Bay Area to about 5600 feet in elevation means it's important for families to hydrate frequently and slow down with strenuous activity. Please use wise judgment and bring hats, sunglasses and plenty of water for the littles.
Ice skating Strap on those ice skates and enjoy South Lake Tahoe’s only outdoor ice skating rink, opening November 1.
Family portrait Why not have those holiday card photos taken with the gorgeous lake as a backdrop? Old TimePhoto can procure the perfect photo and even dress your family in authentic period costumes if you’d like!
To Eat MacDuff’s Pub Frequented by locals and housed in a charming cottage, MacDuff’swill cook the fish the kids caught and turn it into a delectable dinner. MacDuff’s also raises the bar on standard pub fare with truffle mac and cheese and an amazing beet salad. Bonus: go early and grab one of four igloo-like dining pods that will delight the kids to no end!
Casey’s Named after a beloved family dog that lived to 23, Casey’s is a family-friendly tavern tucked away from the main tourist drag and serves up a little bit of everything from burgers and pizza to Thai lettuce wraps and chicken fried steak which means there’s something for everyone!
Fire+Ice At Fire+Ice, kids will love creating their own meals! This interactive dining experience lets kids choose their own proteins and veggies, top it with their choice of sauce then watch a chef grill it up in front of them. The best part? It is all-you-can-eat so all those growing kids leave satisfied!
Azul Taco time! This California-style Latin kitchen will serve up the very best of Tahoe’s tacos, burritos and enchiladas along with craft cocktails to wash it all down!
Baked Bear Satisfy your family’s sweet tooth with a stop at the Baked Bear where custom cookie ice cream sandwiches are the specialty! The Bear Batter ice cream was a hit for us— blue tongues included!
Where to Sleep
Lake Tahoe Resort Hotel This all-suite hotel is the only one in South Lake Tahoe where each room is a suite, which translates into plenty of room to stretch out for families! Nestled at the base of Heavenly, Lake Tahoe Resort's location is perfect walking distance to a plethora of activities from hiking to shopping to biking to lake access. A full, hearty breakfast is included which ensures your family starts off the day with full bellies and is ready for adventure making. This fall is the very best time to go as the hotel is offering special rates so get ready to plan your escape now!
—photos and story by Christine Lai
Editor’s note: This trip was sponsored by Lake Tahoe Resort Hotel, but all opinions expressed here belong to the writer.
Not too hot, not too cold: Autumn is the Goldilocks season in the Bay Area and right now is the best time for a family hike. Take your family on a local adventure this weekend to discover an ancient redwood grove, seek out fall colors and—if you dare—hunt for tarantulas. Whatever your level of enthusiasm for nature, we’ve got you covered. Happy trails!
San Francisco
NPS
Batteries to Bluffs Trail Locals know the best views of the iconic Golden Gate Bridge can be found along this trail in the Presidio. Less than a mile long but packed full of scenic views and history, this easy-going hike is ideal for little legs. Don’t miss the concrete ruins of Sutro Baths, which offer a glimpse into San Francisco’s storied past.
Lobos Creek Trail Who says you can’t go hiking in an urban jungle like San Francisco? Take your little ones out to the Lobos Creek Trail and you’ll be surprised. This half-mile boardwalk is a great mini-hike with the half pints. Monterey pines, monkeyflowers, scattered dunes and a forest of cypress trees make this restored Presidio trail enjoyable during all seasons.
Philosopher’s Way Trail This 2.7-mile trek in San Francisco’s second biggest park has 14 “musing stations” with quotes to make you think while you walk. And while you’re there, don’t forget to check out the park’s reservoir in the northwest section and McNab Lake near the Sutter Playground. McLaren Park offers an exciting alternative to its busy counterpart, Golden Gate Park.
McLaren Park 1229 Mansell St., San Francisco, CA Online: sfparkrec.org
East Bay
California State Parks
Mitchell Canyon Take the kids out to see the big spiders. In the fall, Mount Diablo is one of the top places to catch the tarantulas out and about during their mating season. Mitchell Canyon in Mount Diablo offers an easy hike from the staging area to Deer Flat and back. In the spring, this hike is popular for the wildflowers, and the autumn season is a great time to appreciate the oak savanna woodland and pine groves.
Mount Diablo State Park Mitchell Canyon Rd., Clayton Online:parks.ca.gov
Ardenwood Historic Farm Step back in time to explore Ardenwood’s historic buildings and farming equipment before heading off on a trail through leafy orchards. This park is open year round and volunteers regularly offer activities demonstrating life on a still-operational 1890s farm. From April to mid-November on Thursdays, Fridays and Sundays, you can also ride a train through the park.
Sycamore Grove Livermore’s Sycamore Grove is home to one of the largest sycamore groves in the state. The park makes for a leisurely autumn walk on flat terrain. Walk 2.5 miles from the main entrance to Veteran’s Park, an open space park on the other end where the little ones can run loose. And keep your little hikers on the lookout for some of the critters that call Sycamore Grove their home. From frogs and dragonflies to ducks and muskrats.
Tilden Regional Park Hiking is only part of what this awesome park has to offer. It also boasts pony rides, steam trains, a farm and a swimming area at Lake Anza (currently closed due to an algae bloom). And did we mention this park also has a merry-go-round? Tilden Park has it all and will surely be a hit with your little ones. Plus, most of the hiking trails near the park are short and flat, perfect for little legs and feet.
Sugarloaf Mountain San Mateo's Sugarloaf Mountain offers you and your little ones a chance to hike a bunch of different trails in one area without having to worry about choosing trails based on length. Each trail averages between a mile to three miles and are marked for your hiking convenience. This beautiful open-space connects San Mateo and Belmont with lush green trees, biking trails and wildlife. Note: Laurelwood Park connects to Sugarloaf Mountain so you can treat your little ones to slides and swings before or after exploring Sugarloaf Mountain.
Waterdog Lake Park This hidden gem is nestled between homes and condos in the hills of Belmont. Waterdog Lake Park provides easy terrain for your little hiking aficionados. One of the many perks of hiking Waterdog Lake Park are the views from the top of the canyon. On a clear autumn day you can take in an amazing view of the bay, see the San Mateo Bridge and see the rising hilltops that run through Hayward. The trails at Waterdog Lake reach a maximum of two miles.
Castle Rock State Park Majestic coast redwoods, lush Douglas-firs, and wild forests of madrone make the trails at this South Bay park come alive with beautiful nooks and crannies, including those filled with the intricate sandstone rock formations that inspired the park’s name. Holes in the rocks are big enough for the kids to climb through. This awe-inspiring destination will keep you and your little hikers entertained with over 32 miles of hiking and bicycle trails.
Castle Rock State Park, Highway 35 Online:parks.ca.gov
Rancho San Antonio Open Space Preserve This preserve is often crowded on the weekends, busy with runners along the paved paths and hikers traversing along the trails. After a long COVID closure, Deer Hollow Farm has reopened to the public. It’s a mile from the parking lot and is a great spot to stop and explore. Check out the animals, vegetable garden, and the big red barn. When you get to the farm, have a snack and peek around. Most of the lower trails in the park all lead to central locations, so little hikers and their parents are free to explore without getting lost or tired.
Henry W. Coe State Park Mild weather and thin crowds attract autumn hikers to the deep canyons and tall ridges of Henry Coe State Park. While the trails here are known for being steep, there are some easy walks as well including the one-mile Ponderosa Trail by the Coe Monument. October is a great time to see the colors change on the big leaf maples and California buckeye trees here.
Muir Woods The redwoods protected in this National Monument are some of the oldest in the Bay Area. A study in 2014 found the largest coastal redwood in this grove to be 777 years old—trees here were protected from logging by the burgeoning conservationist movement that led to the National Park System. The boardwalk trail through these beautiful giants is easy to navigate with a stroller and ideal for toddlers. Reservations are required, due to the small car park, so be sure to book ahead.
Tomales Point The grazing tule elk and refreshing sea breeze give autumn a new meaning at this Point Reyes destination. Quiet most of the year, Tomales Point is popular with hikers in the fall, when the weather is mild and the elk are out in droves amid clusters of cypress trees. Those giant antlers alone will fascinate the kiddos. One of the coolest parts to Tomales Point, all the hiking trails are perfect for our mini backpackers. Trails range anywhere from half a mile to 2 miles long.
King Mountain Loop Trail Loop nearly two miles around the crown of King Mountain at this easy-as-pie excursion. Native plants and quiet oak-bay forests make this trail an autumn gem. This hiking trail will have you and the little ones in awe with the views and quiet sounds of nature. It's the perfect hiking destination to disconnect and explore the great outdoors.
Note: Be on the lookout for poison oak, so keep the little ones from running into the trails before you get a chance to make a clean sweep of the area.
For the fifth straight year, Target is honoring veterans with its annual Military Appreciation Discount, and this year its better than ever!
From Oct. 31 through Nov. 13, the retailer is offering a 10 percent discount off two purchases (some exclusions apply) for eligible services members. In order to qualify, guests will need to register at Target.com and once they are deemed eligible, they will be issued a two-time use Target Circle offer to use in-store and online. photo: Courtesy of Target
Guests can also add a veteran or military family status to their Target Circle profile, which makes them eligible for bonus offers and vote on where Target’s community giving funds will go through the end of 2021.
Children’s books should represent the world around us because children need to see themselves represented in the world. While there are many wonderful kids’ books celebrating Black History, these books celebrate the joys of Black childhood with Black lead characters and heroes. Read on for 15 we recommend and order them from a Black indie bookstore.
The Me I Choose To Be
Little, Brown Books for Young Readers
In this gorgeously photographed book, your little reader will see the beauty of Black and brown children come to life. NYT bestselling author Natasha Tarpley has teamed up with husband-and-wife duo Regis and Kahran Bethencourt of CreativeSoul Photography to show children that they can be anything they want to be: a free spirit, artistic, joyful, smart, creative and more.
This new book introduces the concept of weaning to your toddler in a healthy, compassionate way, addressing a scarcity in the book market. Not only are there very few books on this topic written for the children themselves, this is the first weaning picture book written by Black women and is the first weaning book ever featuring Black characters. Inspired by personal experience, The Momference, co-founder, Nikki Osei-Barrett, and bestselling author, Cyana Riley teamed up to co-author, Boobies Go Bye-Bye, a toddler weaning story. Ages: 0-3 (or whatever age you need to talk about weaning!)
This sweet book from author-illustrator Jennifer K. Mann invites us along on Erenstine’s first-ever camping trip. She’s got her bags packed with all the things she thinks she’ll need but nothing prepares her for what it’s really like to be in the great outdoors. The author encourages kids to try new things and celebrate the beauty of the wild. Ages 3-7.
When mother and author Adiba Nelson struggled to find a single children's book that showed a Black child with disabilities, she wrote one herself. Inspired by Nelson's desire for her own child, who is special needs, to see herself joyfully in a book, and in the world around her, Adiba wrote Meet Clarebelle Blue to do just that. Follow Clarabelle through her day and learn how she is just like you—she loves to giggle, she has to brush her teeth, she loves to laugh—just like all kids. An important book for children of all abilities to read to gain insight, compassion, and the importance of representation. Read more about author Adiba Nelson and the book here.
Meet Zoey, a sweet, smart, and spunky five-year-old girl who discovers she has a food allergy. Kids will learn along with Zoey what a food allergy really is, and why Zoey (and any kid) doesn't need to be ashamed. Kids with food allergies can have a hard time speaking up for themselves and keeping themselves safe. Not only will this book do a great service by boosting the confidence of children with food allergies, it will also foster compassion from teachers and peers to understand just what a food allergy means. As such, it belongs in every school and classroom library to help normalize and foster discussion around food allergies. Zoey is the first Black female character in an allergy book to display an anaphylactic allergy and the use of an epi-pen. Author Anisha Angella is an early childhood education and is a childcare coach, consultant, and specialist. Anisha has allergies and struggled with speaking up to keep herself safe, so she wrote the book she wished she had when she was a little girl. Ages: 3 and up.
Author Derrick Barnes captures the young and confident Black narrator of this book perfectly, demonstrating the pure joy of childhood where each day brings challenges and adventures. The exuberant and beautifully done illustrations by Gordon C. James make this book one that will inspire your kids to embrace their own beauty even if things aren't always perfect or they make mistakes, and stay true to their truth, even when they are misunderstood or called things they are not. Ages: 3-7
Written by Kenyan-born actress Lupita Nyong'o, this is as much her personal story as it is the story of young Sulwe, a girl whose skin is the color of midnight. The stunningly gorgeous illustrations by Vashti Harrison are reason enough alone to want this book in your library, but the story itself is beautifully told; it's about differences, acceptance of oneself no matter how we think others see us, it's about wanting to fit in and yet being unique. A vital message for every kid out there, regardless of race or gender. Read it today with your kids. Ages 4-8
As Annie prepares for career day at her school, she talks to her family about their hopes for her future as she plans her future career as an astronaut. Suzanne Slade's book includes lots of bonus material about famous female astronauts and facts about the moon, all accompanied by enchanting illustrations byNicole Tadgell.Ages: 4-7
When debut author Angela Joy set out to teach her children their first Black History lesson she was not expecting her preschooler to say, "But Mama, we're not black, we're brown." It was then that she realized that she wanted her children, and all children, to understand that being Black was about culture as much as color. Vibrant, stained-glass-like artwork by Coretta-Scott King Award-winning illustrator Ekua Holmes accompanies Joy's poetic text as we join a little girl on a journey to discover all the wonderful things that Black is. Includes a suggested playlist as well as an expanded explanation of the historical references in the text to allow parents to explain Black history to their kids. It's an exceptionally designed, written, and thoughtful new book appropriate for kids of all ages and ethnicities. Ages: 4-8 but we think older kids can benefit from this book due to the important historical talking points in the back of the book
Written by Parker Curry (age 4) and her mama, Jessica Curry, with an afterword by Michelle Obama. Illustrated by Brittany Jackson. This is the sweet story of Parker Curry, a young girl, who went to the National Portrait Gallery one afternoon with her mom. She saw a prancing horse, blooming flowers, a bushy mustache...but before she went twirling off toward home, Parker Curry looked up. There on the wall, she saw the magnificent portrait (by Amy Sherald) of Michelle Obama. Parker didn't just see the First Lady of the United States. She saw a queen, a woman with regality, beauty, truth and self-assurance, a woman who looked like her. This moving story will delight any young dreamer. A great addition to any home library or classroom. Ages: 4-8
One of several books in the Princess Cupcake Jones series, we find Princess trying everything in her power to avoid her first day at school. Author Ylleya Fields created Princess Cupcake Jones when, while reading to her then two-year-old, she was struck by the lack of books that featured strong Black children. And so, Princess Cupcake Jones was born. All of the books are rich with the whimsical, spirited illustrations of Michael DeLuca. Ages: 5-7
From seventeen acclaimed Black male and non-binary authors, edited by Kwame Mbalia—author of the beloved Tristan Strong series—comes a vibrant collection of stories, comics, and poems about the power of joy and the wonders of Black boyhood. And if it isn't already painfully clear why we need this book in every school library, public library, and bookshelf in every home in America, the dedication says it all: "To the ones they called angry, broken, sad, and hopeless, but were silent amidst your joy." Includes a new short story by Mbalia, too! Ages: 9-12
When our young reader finished this book he had one critique: the stories were so good he wished there were more! Jason Reynolds weaves together ten different stories, one per block, during the walk home from school. From boogers to jokes to bravery, the neighborhood is full of detours and Reynolds captures them in can't-put-down, totally NOT boring stories. Ages: 10 and up.
Alberta has been the only Black girl in town for years until Edie moves in across the street. As they become friends, they discover a box of journals in the attic of Edie’s new house. The journals reveal secrets of the past and shocking truths as the 12-year-olds learn that nothing is as it seems. Written by award-winning YA author Brandy Colbert. Ages: 8-12
Children around the world are jumping for joy and waiting with bated breath for the release of the third (and final) book in the wildly popular Tristan Strong series by Kwame Mbalia. We find our hero on a journey to Mississippi to face his arch-nemesis, King Cotton. Along the way Tristan and Ayanna are met with obstacles brought on by the haints and must outsmart them, with a little help from the gods. Weaving African and African-American folklore into the fantasy setting, make sure your kiddo's calendar is cleared when this book arrives because they will not want to put it down. And if you haven't read the other two books in the series, the third one is due out in early October, so there's time! Ages: 8-12
Join the ranks and preorder it now (out October 5, 2021), $16
The Unsung Hero of Birdsong, USA
Nancy Paulsen Books
Written by Coretta Scott King Honor-winning author Brenda Woods, The Unsung Hero of Birdsong, USA tells the story of a unique friendship between a young white boy and a black WWII veteran. Mr. Meriwether Hunter returns to Jim Crow South in 1946. When he saves little Gabriel’s life during a bike accident, Gabriel’s father offers Meriwether a job as a mechanic at their family garage. Gabriel and Meriwether form a friendship that endures in spite of the extreme prejudices in the world around them. A beautiful read. Ages 10 and up.
With the past year’s disruption in the food supply chain, many families have looked to order their meat directly from the source. There are many different meat delivery options out there and we gathered up a few of our favorites to share with you. Order up a box and get ready to get grilling!
Beck & Bulow
Beck & Bulow
Beck & Bulow offers pasture-raised buffalo, beef, elk, wild boar, lamb, heritage pork, poultry, wild-caught seafood and more. Check out their butcher shop in Santa Fe, New Mexico or place an order for nationwide delivery. With meat boxes available at all different price points, you can try out your usual favorites along with some new options. Boxes are available for individual orders as well as on a subscription basis if desired. Don't forget to pre-order your Thanksgiving turkey!
Superior Farms
When you are looking for the highest quality lamb for your dinner table, Superior Farms is the spot. Lambs are set to pasture across vast grasslands, sustaining on the natural vegetation as they have for centuries. This employee-owned company takes pride in bringing a sustainable, delicious, nutritious change of pace to the table. Now available via Amazon Fresh, you can order up Lamb Loin Chops, perfect for end-of-summer dishes like these chops with Mango Salsa from the American Lamb Board.
Harry & David Fine Meats™
Harry & David Fine Meats™
Harry & David Fine Meats™ provides shoppers with around-the-clock access to the same fresh selection and quality that they’d find at their local butcher shop—delivered right to their doorstep. You can also find recipes, how-to guides and more to provide inspiration for creating memorable summer gatherings.
We tried out their grilling collection and it was perfect for a family with 4 Rastelli’s™ Antibiotic-Free Filets of Top Sirloin, 4 Rastelli’s™ Pork Ribeye Steaks and 8 Rastelli’s™ Antibiotic-Free Black Angus Beef Triple Blended Burgers. Available options go beyond beef with chicken, pork and seafood also available. Add on some marinades to make tonight's dinner a no-brainer. They're all available via two-day shipping and are a perfect option for a last-minute gift.
Pasturebird, a pasture-raised chicken company, is on a mission to revolutionize agriculture by applying modern technology to ancient farming methods and to make pasture-raised more accessible for everyone. Pasturebird believes in the regenerative power of pasture-raised chicken for land, animal and community. Its goal is to improve the standard for raising animals and revolutionize farming from a man-made system of depletion back to a natural ecosystem of perpetual regeneration and replenishment.
Pasturebird’s chickens live outside in a natural habitat—on grass, in the fresh air and sunshine with plenty of space to roam and forage—and are rotated to a new pasture every single day in a "floorless coop." The company offers a variety of chicken products, from whole and spatchock chickens to chicken wings, drumsticks and breasts available direct-to-consumer nationwide.
You don't have to travel to Charleston to enjoy a meal from one of the best BBQ joints in the country. Lewis Barbecue ships its award-winning smoked meats, including whole brisket, pulled pork, and sausage, all across the country. Lewis also offers a tasty lineup of their signature all-purpose sauces perfect for elevating any summer dish. Your backyard barbecues will never be the same!
KC Cattle Company is a veteran-owned company that sells hormone-free Wagyu beef raised on its own farms. It employs and mentors veterans and donates proceeds from sales to many veterans' foundations. All their cows are raised in a stress-free environment, so the beef is more tender and the cows are happy. No hormones or antibiotics and more omega-3 and omega-6 because of higher marbling and good fat.
They have two amazing gift packages for Father’s Day including:
Pa’s Pick Bundle—This pick is perfect for dad to enjoy a delicious Wagyu KC Strip Steak dinner with plenty of World Famous Gourmet Wagyu Beef Hot Dogs and Wagyu Beef and Bacon Cheeseburger Bratwurst to share with everyone there to celebrate him!
The Backyard Dad Bundle—If the father in your life enjoys spending his free time in the backyard tending to the grill while telling copious amounts of "dad jokes" then this bundle will certainly please! Just remind him, it's no joking matter when preparing Wagyu Ribeye Steaks. Or maybe you let him tell those "cheesy" jokes, that way he just might share!
We know you'll love the father-daughter duo behind Flannery Beef just as much as we do. San Francisco native Bryan Flannery, Jr., learned the meat business from his father, Bryan Sr., who founded beloved Bryans Quality Meats in San Francisco in 1963. And now Bryan Jr. and his daughter, Katie, are the proud team behind Flannery Beef specializing in high quality, USDA Prime Holstein Beef. The duo has worked tirelessly to source, cut and dry age the finest quality beef products available anywhere—and the effort has paid off.
Previously available only to chefs, Flannery Beef pivoted during COVID to get their beef, pork and lamb into the hands of consumers. Their gift boxes are the perfect thank you gift for a neighbor and we love the burger blends to keep on hand during the grilling months. Remember them for holidays as their rack of lamb is a stunner.
Porter Road began in 2010 as a way to get quality beef to consumers without the middleman. They've been shipping their hand-cut meat since 2017 and you can order beef, pork, lamb and chicken to be delivered to your door.
We especially love the BYOBun Kit as it is the perfect option for weekend grilling, or to take with you on your next camping trip. You provide the buns, Porter Road provides the pasture-raised bratwurst and hot dogs, and Cleveland Kitchen provides the Classic Caraway Kraut and Roasted Garlic Kraut. It's pretty much a match made in grilling heaven.
ButcherBox is a mainstay in the meat subscription box market and it's for a good reason. They source wild-caught seafood, pasture-raised pork, grass-fed beef and more, and deliver it right to you. Their plans are super flexible with the custom box being a family favorite. Order what you what, when you want it and change up your order with every delivery if you'd like.
Right now they're offering a free BBQ bundle with your order: two strip steaks, six burgers, and 5 lbs. of drumsticks for FREE in your first box. Exp. 5/31
For a meatless BBQ option, check this out. DoorDash has partnered with Beyond Meat®, a leader in plant-based meat, to offer limited-edition, July 4th grilling kits to help customers host the ultimate BBQ featuring this summer’s hottest grilling essential: the sizzling new Beyond Burger®. The kits are available exclusively on DoorDash for on-demand delivery from DashMart, a new type of convenience store owned, operated, and curated by DoorDash. In addition to the Beyond Burger®, the grilling kits offer a custom grilling mit, apron, grilling tools, a bottle opener and a recipe card with custom dishes.
To order the kits, open up your DoorDash app and visit the DashMart store page.
Snake River Farms
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If Waygu beef is your jam, you need to get hooked up with some deliveries from Snake River Farms. They first bred Wagyu with high quality cattle in the late 1980s and loved its deep flavor and sublime marbling. You'll feel good knowing that they control their entire supply chain, from the ranches where the cattle are raised to the humane processing facility to their in-house customer care team.
Stock your freezer with a slew of steaks and burgers to be ready for all that summer grilling. The monthly subscription box is a great way to try out different products.
When it comes to little girls and easy hairstyles, more often than not, the responsibilities are relegated to moms. But there’s no reason why dads can’t be in charge of whipping up a spectacular ‘do, too. Whether you’re a first-time hairstylist or a seasoned hairbrush pro, there are plenty of inspirational and instructional hair tutorials online that can teach virtually any dad how to become a hairstyling pro. Read on to view some of our favorite dad/daughter videos below.
8 Easy Styles Any Dad Can Do
This video includes eight different styles, including braided ponytails, buns with braids and more. Be sure to order ponytail holders before you get started!
Low Pigtail Braids
Perfect for a bike ride, or a day at school, Daddy Daughter Hair Factory can show you how to perfect the low pigtail braid hairstyle. Don't forget the wet brush for tangles!
Easy Styles That Take Little Time
"Maddy and Daddy" bring you some easy hairstyles like a ponytail, twist bun and pigtails that you can totally pull off.
Braided Buns, Top knots, and Princess Ringlets
With more than 1 million followers on Instagram, Mike Worthington and his daughter Asia have become such a viral sensation with their fun online hair and fashion tutorials that they've taken their show on the road with a Daddy Does Hair roadshow!
The Daddy Sock Bun
Featured on DadsDoHair.com, a Facebook community that features real dads giving instructional videos on quick and advanced hairstyles for other dads (and moms) looking to learn to do with their daughter's hair, this video shows an ingenious use of an old sock to create a beautiful hair bun.
Simple Fishtail Braid
Bryan Leffew is a stay-at-home dad who has been doing his daughter Selena's hair since she was a baby. In this video, Bryan practices a simple braid for one of Selena's upcoming performances at school
Spinning Hair Bun
War veteran and police officer Manny Colon offers up a novel approach to creating the perfect hair bun for his daughter Lily. Hint: it doesn't involve a vacuum cleaner, but it doesn't require some fancy footwork from Lily.
Slicked-Back High Ponytail
This father has a rather interesting way to create the perfect high ponytail on his daughter. Ta-da!
Flip-Through Ponytail
Entrepreneur Mark Peters offers some helpful, pain-free hints on how to transform a low ponytail into a flip-through pony.
Dad does his baby girl's hair, with guidance from mom.
Dutch Braid
As a single dad, Philippe Morgese taught himself how to do his daughter Emma's hair. What began as father-daughter bonding turned into Daddy Daughter Hair Factory, a popular Facebook community and live workshops that teach other dads how to do their daughters' hair.
Three Easy Hairstyles
Filmmaker Steven Miranda shows three easy hairstyles that any dad can do.
Dealing With Thick Hair
Dad Olu offers up easy tips for kids with thick hair, just like his adorable daughter Kemi. Find out more about this adorable duo by clicking here.
If you have a little one who is just starting out, what are the best ways to teach your kids to ride a bike without the tears or tantrums? We caught up with a few bike experts for insider tips to help get the family changing gears before you can say go! From how to prepare your kids to hit the pavement to what kind of bike is best for toddlers, we’ve got everything you need to know.
Psst…Earlier this week we published a story on the best kids bikes, tricycles and scooters for beginners. If you missed it, click here for the story or shop the bikes below.
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Do Your Homework According to Shane MacRhodes, Transportation Options Coordinator for the city of Eugene, OR, before you hit the pavement, it's important to check out a family cycling guide. The San Francisco Bicycle Coalition and the Portland Bureau of Transportation have great tips and tricks tailored to different stages of riding bikes with kids—from pregnancy to kids riding on their own.
Go Tandem with Teeny Tots Start out riding with the kids attached, whether in a trailer, bike seat or on a cargo bike. Not only will it get your blood pumping but the littles will get a first-hand experience at what it's like to be out biking around. Check out our top picks for the best cargo bikes for families here.
Get Them Excited: Pick Out a Helmet Let them be a part of the process by letting them pick out their own helmet. They can even adorn it with favorite stickers or decorations. The more they're invested in their own gear, the more they'll be willing to wear it when it counts.
Test Out Riding Indoors Does hitting the pavement sound intimidating? Help your kiddo adjust to the feel of a bike with its stationary counterpart. This can help them to not worry about falling and distract them from any fears they may have of riding!
Shane MacRhodes
Begin with a Balance Bike Start kids out on a balance bike; unlike training wheels, it teaches them what really matters, balance! Worried about the transition? It’s actually easier to go from balance bike to pedal bike. Balance bikes are also lighter so when beginning riders decide they’ve had enough scooting for the day, the long haul back home (think: you carrying the bike) doesn’t seem so far.
Let Them See Other Kids Riding We love that biking is a great social distancing activity. Our Editorial Director, whose toddler just learned how to ride a balance bike, took her son to watch other older kids ride their balance bikes. It wasn't until he saw the older kids push and glide that he truly understood how to do it himself (he was previously walking his bike, not understanding how to push off and glide). It was like a lightbulb went off and he then picked it up very quickly.
Size It Right Thinking of getting a bike that grows with your baby biker? Well, think again. If toes are even just this far off the ground, or the pedals aren’t quite so push-friendly and the handlebars are too much to handle—yup, not so fun—kids are less likely to want to ride as often. If you aren't sure what type of bike to get, check out our list of best kids' bikes for every age and stage. You can also go to your local bike shop to ask for their advice and get fitted.
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Know the Route & Choose the Right Surface Start on the multi-use paths, but don't be limited by them. Pinpoint the quiet neighborhood streets that connect riders to where they need to go because these are the roads less traveled (handy when starting with beginner bikers). Find out if your community has a bike map and route out a good ride. You can even try out Google Maps bike directions. Start short and simple and build up to longer, more complex rides.
And, be sure to pick a smooth, hard surface for when your kid is first learning how to ride a bike. Children's bike expert and industry veteran Isla Roundtree tells Cycling Weekly, "It’s tempting to choose grass as many feel it would aid a soft landing but that can make learning quite difficult because they will have to push quite hard on a small bike” she explained.
Our edit team thinks taking young tots to empty schoolyards is the perfect spot to learn how to ride. There may be other kids there riding their scooters or bikes, but since many schools aren't in session this year, the yards are fairly empty and provide a nice open space and smooth surface for beginner riders.
TREK Bikes
The Price is (Also) Right Picking a quality bike also makes a difference in how kids enjoy the ride. Pricier versions are built for bumps in the road (both real and emotional!) and all you bargain buyers and sellers—the better bike has a higher resale value, every time.
Bonus Tip: Speaking of resale, be sure to scour sites like Craigslist, Nextdoor and Facebook marketplace to score fab deals on kid bikes, trailers, seats and cargo bikes. Find a great bike, but it's the wrong color? Decorate! Feel free to go crazy with stickers, colorful tape, straws, pipe cleaners and plastic flowers to make the bike all their own—just make sure nothing can get caught in the wheels or chain.
Go Back to School Try and find a family biking class in your area. If you can’t find one, look for an adult class like the League of American Bicyclists "Traffic Skills 101," it’s a crash course in the basics of confident, safe cycling techniques. Read: it will help you model better riding for your kids. Other routes including checking in with your local Safe Routes to School program for resources.
Whether you’re prepared, scared, or maybe in denial, there’s no denying that the new school year is here. Although that may look different for families all over the country, with some opting into in-person learning, staying remote, a combination of both, or maybe even still unsure, we’re all in this together. I don’t need to tell you this school year will be unlike any other, you already know that. Instead, I’m using my years of experience as both a mom and a primary educator to provide some simple tips to help balance a new routine and tackle the new year feeling confident and empowered to make this the best year yet for your little learners. If nothing else, just remember you got this.
1. Use all the resources available to you. As a kindergarten teacher and mom of two littles, I’m always looking for ways to take some tasks off of my plate. We started to use grocery drop off/pick up services to save a little time. Also, everyone in the family is taking on more of an active role. We’ve also leaned on our family and friends in ways that we have not in the past. This can be difficult for so many parents that feel like we have to do it all….use your village!
2. Give your children more control during a time when they might feel out of control. I love the word “yes.” When my children ask to do something, wear something, or play something…if it’s in my power to say “yes,” then I do! I want them to feel like they have some control when the world seems to be changing daily. For me, that means letting them select their own clothes or even giving them a little more control in their daily schedule. My children also learned how to pack their own lunches during quarantine so they can keep this up whether they are at home for distance learning or back in the classroom. We decided to put their lunch items, snacks, and juice boxes in places that are accessible for their tiny hands.
3. Support your kids by supporting their teachers. This is near to me since I hold space as a veteran teacher and concerned parent. I understand what it means to deal with distance learning at home or send my child into a school that I’m not allowed to step foot into. It’s tough stuff! On the other hand, I know what it is to be the teacher under pressure—especially during this unprecedented time. When it comes to your children’s’ teachers: assume the best intentions, be understanding. This is new for everyone. Be flexible and remember—the whole world is going through this. We are winning with each passing day!
4. Take care of yourself. Self-care is critical. Self-care is proactive. Self-care is so much deeper than a relaxing bubble bath. For me personally, self-care is even cleaning the bathtub after the relaxing bubble bath because I know that a dirty space might be a trigger for stress later. In a world that is ever connected, it’s also easy to compare yourself to others. Don’t! This is one of the fast ways to trigger stress and anxiety—and for me, that is the opposite of self-care. We are all on our own journey. Remember social media is a highlight reel and if you don’t take care of yourself, you can’t take care of anyone else.
Amber Kemp-Gerstel is the host of Disney Family Sundays on Disney+ and founder of Damask Love, a creative blog all about DIY. Amber received her Ph.D. in Clinical Child Psychology from Vanderbilt University and practiced as a pediatric psychologist for many years before shifting careers to pursue her passion for creativity.
