Hilarious Halloween parenting memes and all that candy are only two things we love about October
Your kids have chosen their Halloween costumes (and then changed their minds 1,000 times), the candy has been bought and then restocked and then restocked again, and you’ve lined up all the best Halloween movies on Netflix. Now that you’re ready for the big night, it’s time to grab a mini-Snickers, relax, and laugh at these hilarious Halloween memes about parenting we’re sure you can relate to.
Why is it that dads always seem to have everything they could ever want? Maybe they genuinely don’t want anything that they don’t already own. Or it could be just that he never really mentions wanting something specific. We think there’s a good chance he’s dropped a hint or two, but we’re pretty sure those hints are along the lines of something practical. And listen, we love our dads and our partners, but we just don’t think socks or a cordless drill backup battery really show what they mean to us. We also don’t want to know that much about drill backup batteries. That means every year, Father’s Day gift shopping can be a serious guessing game.
You’ve probably already done the tie thing. The tools thing. The iTunes gift card thing. Those are all fine, but we think we’ve come up with a few ideas you might not have thought of yet and that dad isn’t expecting. Whether he’s a sports guy, a foodie, or a fashion-forward father, we’ve done our research (just like dad taught us). There are some really cool gifts out there—or rather, right here—that are sure to excite him. So start visualizing your dad, stepdad, husband, partner, and any other dad on your list and check out these Father’s Day gifts.
Junk Food & Food Food Trivia
Brass Monkey/Amazon
Boring trivia? Not here. This delightfully pointless game covers all sorts of food knowledge from a bunch of misleading categories (like 'Hunger Games'—all about eating competitions). Junk Food & Food Food Trivia ($14.00)—Buy Here!
Bombas Men's Golf Ankle Sock 4-Pack Caddie
Bombas
Now, before you remind us that we seemed anti-socks-as-gifts, these aren't regular socks. They're Bombas. You've probably heard sock-wearers everywhere sing their praises and that's because they're honestly 100% worth it. We're guessing they're similar to walking on clouds. They also walk the walk by donating one for one. They come in multiple colors and styles, but we're fond of this 4-pack with bonus Bombas Hex Tec Sock Bag. Bombas Men's Golf Ankle Sock 4-Pack Caddie ($72.00)—Buy Here!
Omaha Steaks Premier Father's Day Gift
Omaha Steaks
If we’re already drooling, you know dad will love this gift from Omaha Steaks. Let him indulge in the tender & savory cuts of Bacon-Wrapped Filet Mignons, juicy Boneless Pork Chops, flavorful PureGround Delmonico Ribeye Burgers, and much more. Omaha Steaks Premier Father's Day Gifs (Starting at $99.00)—Buy Here!
The '80s called and Lego answered. This retro game includes Pac-Man, Blinky, Clyde, and even a light-up brick for the coin slot. It's not a fully functional game, but who needs that when you have such a cool project to complete and show off? Lego Pac-Man Arcade ($269.99)—Buy Here!
Supernatural VR
Supernatural VR
This at-home workout is perfect for multitasking dads who just don’t have enough hours in the day to make it to the gym. Busy parent of three Kelly Ripa shared that Supernatural is “everything I’ve been looking for!” when it comes to fitness, and adds that “at-home workouts are here to stay and the convenience that they elicit is hard to compete with.”
Work out in exotic locations around the globe like Machu Picchu, The Maldives, or The Great Wall of China and to today’s top artists such as Billie Eilish, Megan Thee Stallion, The Weeknd, and more! Every day, a new workout is released and for those who aren’t in a fitness routine yet, there is an option for every fitness-level so everyone can move, have fun and feel rewarded. Along with a range of intensities, workouts include four different modalities—Flow (Cardio), Stretching, Meditation, and Boxing. Supernatural is available on Meta Quest 2 with pricing at $19/month or $179/annually. Supernatural VR—Start Now!
It's not often something as simple as a grooming kit has a 5-star rating. Even if he doesn't know what all of these tools do, he'll have a full 10 of them at his disposal for all his non-beard-grooming needs (and you can help explain how to use the full Arsenal). The Arsenal Mens Grooming Kit ($14.99)—Buy Here!
Tinybeans
Tinybeans
No, it doesn't come in a box, but aside from our obvious love, 150,000 5-star reviews from our users agree. With Tinybeans, you can easily and privately capture and organize your kiddo’s best moments and milestones in a single platform. Its intuitive interface, along with features like photobook creation and easy customization, make organizing and searching for memories a breeze. Tinybeans—Get it Here Free!
The 2 Million Dollar Puzzle
MSCHF
This is the best kind of chaotic mischief. A $20 puzzle. A chance to win between $1 and $1,000,000. Once dad completes the 500-piece puzzle, scan the QR code with your phone. Enter your secret prize code (found on the paper insert in your puzzle box) and learn what you’ve won. This isn't your average jigsaw. The 2 Million Dollar Puzzle ($20.00)—Buy Here!
Bespoke Post
Bespoke Post
Bespoke Post is a seriously sharp subscription service for the modern dude in your life. Each box is built around a specific story or theme, with the goal of introducing you to something new—a better way to shave, a stylish take on barware, a new hobby; stuff like that.Stay classy, San Diego (or wherever you are). Bespoke Post Subscription (Starting at $49.00)—Buy Here!
RadRunner 2 Electric Bike
Rad Power Bikes
Commute. Explore. Whatever dad does, he can do it in style with the ebike that's been hailed "the best affordable electric utility bike". With over 330 possible accessory combinations, he can customize this moped-style ebike to his heart’s content. Want the numbers? The RadRunner2 offers up to 45 miles per charge, can support up to 300lbs, and has a 750W motor. Available in 3 colors. RadRunner 2 Electric Bike (Starting at $1449.00)—Buy Here!
The dad on the go is gonna need his trusty cooler, and this LAKA Cooler delivers. Available in 9 colors, it keeps ice for up to 10 days. Add a telescoping handle, serious durability, cup holder, bottle opener, and rubber wheels and you have a gift dad will use for years to come. LAKA 30 Cooler ($239.99)—Buy Here!
Mystery Tackle Box
Mystery Tackle Box
Does his Facebook profile picture feature him proudly displaying a freshly-caught bass? The Mystery Tackle Box is for him. Choose between a standard or pro plan for bass, multi-species, panfish and trout, walleye, or inshore saltwater fishing, and every month, he'll get a box full of bait, lures, and tackle to help fuel his fishy hobby. No two boxes are the same, either. Mystery Tackle Box (Starting at $48.45)—Buy Here!
National Park Welcome Hoodie
Parks Project
So this is a pretty cool vintage-fit hoodie. But it also gives back. Parks Project has a goal "to protect and preserve parklands for generations to come by educating, advocating, volunteering, and activating park supporters to get involved in conservation." Not only are you gifting his new favorite hoodie, but you'll be contributing to something bigger, too. (Heads up that it runs small, so be sure to go up a size or two.) National Park Welcome Hoodie ($72.00)—Buy Here!
Virgin Experience Gifts
Virgin Experience Gifts
What do you get the guy that has it all? An experience he's never had. From canopy zip-lining, murder mystery theater dinners, the ultimate home date night kit, race car drives, and more, Virgin Experience Gifts offers something for everyone, almost everywhere. Pick something for dad to do, or hook him up with a gift card to choose his own. Virgin Experience Gifts (Price Varies)—Buy Here!
Stitch Fix Men
Stitch Fix
Even if dad hates shopping, Stitch Fix for Men makes it easy for him. All he has to do is take their Style Quiz (or you can do it for him—they're used to it) and he'll get 5 curated pieces delivered to him. Whether he chooses to get his Fix monthly or on-demand, he'll find pieces that fit right out of the box, and if they don't work exactly the way he wants, he can send them back (free) with notes to make his next Fix perfect. He can even preview his pieces before they ship. It's the gift that keeps on giving. Stitch Fix Men ($20.00+)—Buy Here!
Threes Knees Spicy Gift Set
Bushwick Kitchen
Spicy Honey, Spicy Maple, and Gochujang Sriracha plus a BK kitchen towel create a divinely spicy set for the heat lovers among us. And don't worry; they're not so hot that you can't taste the actual (super yummy) flavors of these kickin' condiments. Threes Knees Spicy Gift Set ($49.99)—Buy Here!
Vibrating Pliability Mini Sphere
TB12 Sports
A portable massage sphere, this little gadget from TB12 Sports is for dads of all shapes and sizes. It relieves tension, warms up muscles, and basically feels awesome. Vibrating Pliability Mini Sphere ($99.00)—Buy Here!
Beer and Bourbon Liquor Peanuts Tin
Damn, Man
He'll probably assume an I.P.A. is in his Father's Day future, so surprise him with this tin of boozy peanuts. Just strong enough to make them super flavorful, they have a sweet and cocktail-y kick. Beer and Bourbon Liquor Peanuts Tin ($24.00)—Buy Here!
Beard Club Ultimate Beard & Trimmer Kit
Beard Club
Maybe you expected a shave kit on the list, but we promise you didn't expect this shave kit. The Beard Club Ultimate Kit has everything he needs for his best beard ever. Plus, the over 3,500 5-star reviews from happy guys speak for themselves. Beard Club Ultimate Beard & Trimmer Kit ($125.00)—Buy Here!
Superman 85th Diamond Anniversary Logo T-shirt
DC Shop
Even if he already owns a bunch of superhero tees, even if he already owns a bunch of Superman tees, the Diamond Anniversary t-shirt is a must for any fan. It comes in royal blue, light blue, and white. Superman 85th Diamond Anniversary Logo T-shirt ($25.00)—Buy Here!
Viking Acacia And Slate Cheese Board
Sur la Table
No one doesn't like charcuterie. No one. This acacia and slate cheese board from foodie fave Viking is sleek, functional, and perfect for parties or movie night. Set includes a wood board with slate inlay, two cheese knives, and three pinch bowls. Viking Acacia And Slate Cheese Board ($179.95)—Buy Here!
Reclaimed Whiskey Barrel DIY Watch Kit
Original Grain
Can't pick? How about something that covers all the bases whether he's a watch lover, a DIY fan, a whiskey connoisseur, or a vintage appreciator? This DIY kit from Original Grain lets dad make his own timepiece (and also comes in reclaimed military wood or reclaimed German beer barrel wood). What he creates is not only a very, very cool watch, but a keepsake he can be proud of. Reclaimed Whiskey Barrel DIY Watch Kit ($329.00)—Buy Here!
Herd & Grace Aussie Feast Starter Box
Herd & Grace
He won't find these cuts at the neighborhood grocery store. They're premium curated cuts from Tasmania and South Australia that are typically reserved for fine dining restaurants (the kind without chicken nuggets on the menu, so it's not likely dad's made it to one of those too often these days) and would cost at least $350. It's a major deal that doesn't feel like one at all. Herd & Grace Aussie Feast Starter Box ($134.99)—Buy Here!
SolidWork Safety Goggles
SolidWork/Amazon
Why would we include something that seems ultra-practical in a list of gifts? Because these safety goggles from SolidWork have over 11,600 reviews giving them almost 5 stars. That's some goggle love. SolidWork Safety Goggles ($19.99)—Buy Here!
Everdure Cube Portable Charcoal Grill
Everdure/Amazon
Everdure by Heston's wildly popular Cube 360 Portable Charcoal BBQ is the ultimate portable charcoal barbeque, uniquely designed to let him grill, smoke, and roast his way to outdoor cooking bliss. Available in 5 colors, too. Everdure Cube Portable Charcoal Grill ($156.99+)—Buy Here!
Nostalgic Chocolate Bars 5pk
Sugar Plum Chocolates
Apple Pie, Pancakes and Syrup, Fruity Flakes, PB&J, Milk and Cookies—what more could a dad ask for? Pick one of each, or snag five of his favorite flavors. Nostalgic Chocolate Bars 5pk ($25.00)—Buy Here!
Bond Heart Smart Necklace
Bond Touch
Obviously, anyone can wear a heart necklace. But even if dad isn't really a jewelry guy, this black (or white) heart necklace is more than just an accessory. It actually holds the heartbeats of those you love. Wrap your hand around the pendant and feel your loved ones' heartbeats without an internet connection. Anytime. Anywhere. Upload and request the heartbeats through the app, pair it with your Bond Heart, and you're set for up to 21 days before it needs to be recharged. Pretty special, right? (And if dad isn't into necklaces, check out Bond Touch's wristbands.) Bond Heart Smart Necklace ($99.00)—Buy Here!
Celebrate dad (bods) this Father’s Day with a few of our favorite things. Enjoy two large classic Banana Pudding cups, two Banana Pudding cookies, and two Double Fudge Brownies. Maybe he'll share? Dad Bod Dessert Bundle ($60.00)—Buy Here!
Colsen Tabletop Indoor/Outdoor Ethanol Fireplace
Colson/Amazon
Concrete and fire. That's a Father's Day gift recipe for the books. This portable fire tabletop is fueled by smokeless, odorless rubbing alcohol with flame arrestor and can be used indoor or out. Seriously. Colsen Tabletop Indoor/Outdoor Ethanol Fireplace ($39.96)—Buy Here!
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It is officially summer here—and as a mom, I have had it! This summer, I am taking a stand and declaring that this summer is for every mom bod out there, and it will be the summer that we wear the DAMN bathing suit!
Rock that Mom Bod
I understand how self-conscious it is to be a mom—believe me! I see young twenty-somethings at the beach that look like they stepped out of a photoshoot as opposed to our day at the beach that involved a million “necessities,” a toddler who threw a tantrum and not one moment to enjoy my beer since I’m not only mom, I’m doubling as a lifeguard, too.
I, too, was once a young twenty-something who arrived at the beach without a care in the world. In fact, if my college self saw me in a two-piece today, she would probably tell me to rock the one-piece instead. But my college self was so naive and thought that her body could take anything (honestly, it had survived way too many nights of tequila shots and Natty Light).
What my college self didn’t know were all the amazing things that my body would be capable of doing. I am still in awe that my body could create and carry a beautiful smart little girl in just 42 weeks. And then, after 22 hours of labor and an emergency c-section, it would bounce right back to take care of this small, delicate newborn. And still, throughout her first year of life, my mom bod could provide the sole form of nutrition to that little girl—and even a little extra to donate to babies in need. My body could survive off very little sleep, be drained to the point where I thought I had nothing left—and then give more.
Our bodies are truly amazing in what we can do, not only as moms but as women.
Wear the Damn Bathing Suit
I know that as a mom, I am guilty of trying to hide the stretch marks, baby weight and c-section scars and shelf when in all honesty, I should rock them as the battle scars they are. These marks and parts of our body that we deem are unsightly are actually signs of our body’s strength—proof that our body can do anything.
Moms deserve to wear the damn bathing suit—and feel as beautiful as our children see us. Rock the c-section scars, stretch marks and baby weight as you chase after your wonderful children in the ocean.
Wear the damn bathing suit so you don’t miss out on time with your family. Rather than sit on the side of the pool fully-clothed worrying about the size of your thighs, put on your bathing suit and play Marco Polo in the pool with your kids. Teach your littles how to do cannonballs. Make memories with your family rather than sit on the sidelines and watch memories being made around you.
The truth is, your kids won’t remember your stretch marks, baby weight or the c-section shelf. Your kids will remember the afternoon you spent building the largest sandcastle they have ever seen or those morning swims at the neighborhood pool.
Maybe if all of us moms got out this summer and wore our damn bathing suits, it would help encourage other moms to get out there and do the same.
We only get so many summers with our kids, let’s not waste them worrying about how we look—instead, let’s just wear the damn bathing suit.
Ashley Gillis is a mom to a beautiful, spunky little girl and is the Co-Founder of Hampton Roads Moms, a lifestyle blog and resource for Mom's in South East Virginia. She is a lover of the beach, margaritas, coffee, running and speaking her mind. You can get more of Ashley at www.hrvamoms.com.
Although you might not think Portland’s rainy months and outdoor dining go together, we’re here to tell you otherwise
Often with Portland’s crisp winter weather comes an instinct to duck inside. But all that inside time has families looking for places they can spend time outside, without those pesky elements. How about a spot where you and the kids can be outside and stay warm while noshing on mouthwatering bites? Lots of Portland eateries have upped their outdoor dining game over the last few years. Now there are plenty of kid-friendly Portland restaurants with outdoor seating that includes heat. So the next time you get a hankering for an outdoor dining experience, head to one of our favorite spots, no matter what the season.
Plan a Night Out at a Kid-Friendly Portland Restaurant with Outdoor Seating That’s Covered & Heated
Solidifying their reputation for satisfying national and international craft brews, diverse whiskeys and an enticing atmosphere since 1978 The Row is home to one of the best open-air heated patios in Portland. You’ll find more than wooden picnic tables for your little diners to prop up at, and a decorative maple tree planter and a concrete-paver patio covered with a clear vinyl dome. Heaters are strategically placed and will keep little bodies warm. The Row’s fresh, American-style lunch and dinner fare is seasonal, with options that will delight all ages.
Their two locations, one in St Johns and one on Mississippi, were both approved to take over their local streets, so you’ll be able to enjoy plenty of tables at either spot. Patio dining options include covered and heated seating, so even on the colder evenings your crew will stay comfortable. You’ll find a traditional taproom menu of great burgers, sandwiches, fish’n’chips, and chicken tenders. Award-winning beer included.
This sweet neighborhood cafe on 28th and Burnside serves up great Italian food with a friendly staff. Along with excellent service, you can expect outdoor heated seating set apart from the street with wide planter boxes. Kids will enjoy their own menu with pasta and veggie choices, and parents will enjoy the affordability—and the wine.
Located in the heart of Sellwood, this neighborhood public house is not only grown-up friendly but kid-friendly too. They serve a full kids menu from a hearty grilled cheese to chicken tenders that if somehow the kids don't finish you will. Seating is heated and outdoor. Bring your kids (and pups) to their heated sidewalk cafe for one of the coolest heated outdoor dining experiences Portland has to offer. Be sure to return when you have a sitter because their back patio, beer list and dinner menu is amazing. With their awesome location, great service, and accommodating space adding them to your family-friendly dining destination was an easy one.
This bastion of kid-friendliness on Mississippi didn't let the pandemic stop them—they’ve actually expanded their outdoor seating. Covered dining is available. Order whole hot pizzas, bread sticks, salads, and drinks, then grab a spot outside to enjoy.
You can't go wrong with Cajun tots and a view. Take the family to McMenamins on the Columbia on a clear day to watch the waterfront and a satisfying meal. The iconic restaurant chain not only has eclectic decor but also food and atmosphere for everyone. Enjoy getting out of the house and enjoying a truly amazing view, take a walk along the waterfront after to make a day of it.
1801 S.E. Columbia River Dr. Portland Online:mcmenamins.com
6. Teote MezcalerÍa
From the street (or even inside the main entrance) you’d never guess that this festive, eclectic restaurant with its bright blue exterior and metal artwork décor is home to a spacious, covered patio in the back. After ordering your meal at the counter—the fare is Latin American street food and includes its signature arepas and, a deep fried Venezuelan-style corn cake—head up the stairs to access the patio. There’s ample seating and large fire pit in the center that will keep little tykes toasty warm.
Heated outdoor dining in SE Portland offers local families and yummy Pizza experience. Grab a slice of pie on Woodstock at Pizza Roma where you will find an outdoor setup that includes 15 tables and multiple outdoor heaters. This restaurants menu features tons of types of pizzas, hot sandwiches and more. You can even order growlers of beer. The kids will love their plate of meatballs and having tons of room to move.
Family head. Source of tough love. Our greatest supporter in all we do. Fathers are special people in our lives and a constant reminder that we are loved. This Father’s Day, make Dad feel special with these fun activities that are sure to bring on the smiles and create lasting memories. After all, just like a homemade DIY card, the gift of time is priceless.
Take Dad to a Ballgame
Matt Dodd via Unsplash
Channel your inner sports fan and take Dad to a baseball game this Father’s Day. The Oakland A’s will face the Kansas City Royals at home. This three-game series starts on Friday, June 17 and runs through Sunday, June 19. Batter Up!
Classic Car Show Fun
TaLeiza Calloway-Appleton
Rev up the fun at a Classic Car Show. The Garlic City Car Show is back to Gilroy after two years! This year’s car show will take place on Saturday, June 18 from 10am-4pm in Downtown Gilroy. There will be live music, vendors, and over 200 of the coolest classic cars in Gilroy.
Celebrate Heritage and Tradition
Jim Watkins/YBG Festival
Father’s Day is a celebration of family. Enjoy a beloved Father’s Day tradition with the 20th annual Native Contemporary Arts Festival. Part of the Yerba Buena Gardens Festival, the special event will showcase a diverse program of native music, dance, spoken word, visual artists, vendors and native crafts.
Treat Dad to an unforgettable meal and memories aboard the Hornblower’s Father’s Day Brunch Cruise. Enjoy chef-inspired, plated entrees, music and more on this picturesque two-hour yacht cruise. Bonus: Seats are assigned and you even get a keepsake photo.
Head Outdoors
iStock
Fishing is a fun pastime to spend with dad and we've got the full scoop on all the great spots in the Bay Area to cast a line. Prefer a low-key, equipment-less outing? Take a family nature walk, join a Bioblitz or tidepool tour. We also enjoy exploring while hiking with our dad and these unique and waterfall trails are perfect for an outdoor adventure everyone will remember.
Jam at a Music Festival
Brett Sayles via Pexels
The music festival scene in the Bay Area is ripe this summer! Check out San Francisco’s North Beach Festival. One of the city’s largest street fairs, the two-day event will include live music, food, arts and crafts and more Father’s Day weekend. Other fun options include the Stern Grove Festival and Novato Art, Wine and Music festival.
Quality Time at Home
TaLeiza Calloway-Appleton
Nothing beats good ole quality time at home. Does Dad have a green thumb? Plant a garden in your backyard. Here’s our list of fun gardening ideas.
Get Creative with Art
A handmade card speaks to the heart and we’ve gathered some festive DIY ideas to spark your creativity. Kick it up a bit by painting together at a local Paint Nite, Craft Night or even make a scrapbook together.
It’s hard to believe, but with the rainy spring season winding to a close, it’s time for warmer days, red juice-drenched chins and pales full of berries! Heading out to the U-Pick fields is one of the hallmarks of summer around here, so get your garden gloves and five gallon pale ready! We’ve rounded up some of the best farms for the whole crew to pick their own—read on for more!
Columbia Farms A simple site on the other side of the island from Kruger, Columbia offers quiet fields, a wide expanse, beautiful picnic options under their gazebo, and delicious berries. They offer buckets and wagons to get to the furthest fields, and are always happy to point to the the best picking of the day. Varieties grown are Hood, Puget Reliance, and Honeoye.
Topaz Farm This farm and store is arguably one of the best known around! Because of that, it does get busy, but for good reason. It’s big enough that you’ll still find plenty of berries whenever you go. Wagons can help tote your little ones and their buckets to and from the fields. And if everyone ends up famished, stop by their food court for freshly grilled corn, hot dogs, and a glass of beer!
Season: Strawberries are currently in season (please check daily for farm hours) 17100 SW Sauvie Island Rd. 503-621-3489 Online: krugersfarm.com
Bella Organic This farm is proudly certified organic, and it now runs on 100% solar energy! What’s more, the berries are delicious. With rides to the fields or wagons available, getting there is easy, and you can fuel up before or after at their food pavilion. They serve burgers (veggie ones, too!), lamb gyros, cider, wine, and local beer!
Season Opens June 11. 16205 SW Gillihan Rd. 503-621-9545 Online: bellaorganic.com
The Pumpkin Patch Don’t let the name confuse you– this farm is great anytime before autumn, too! With plenty of fields to pick from (many nearby for a shorter walk), and the bonus of a real indoor bathroom, this is a great spot for kids. The Big Red Animal Barn holds enough excitement for any little one, and the patio cafe makes a perfect watering hole after (or before!) a day in the fields.
Season Opens: June 1 16511 NW Gillihan Rd. 503-621-3874 Online: thepumpkinpatch.com
West Side
Smith Berry Barn A fantastic no spray farm that offers strawberries in several varieties! Sweet as sugar Hoods, Benton, and hearty Shuksan varieties all grow in satisfying rows in their fields. Bring your own containers to weigh before picking, or they provide buckets to fill up. You’ll always get directions to the best places to pick, and when you’re back at the store, you can find honey, jam, tea blends, and a range of seed packets to grow your very own!
Season Opens: Mid May Tue.-Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 24500 SW Scholls Ferry Road Hillsboro, Or. 503-628-2172 Online: smithberrybarn.com
Hoffman Farms This family owned farm out in Scholls has beautiful grounds waiting for you! Fields of berries, a farm store, and a gorgeous old barn makes a perfect backdrop to your day in the sun. And the best part are the fresh milkshakes and other goodies waiting for you after you’re done!
Season Open 22242 SW Scholls Ferry Rd. Beaverton 503-628-5418 Online: hoffmanfarmsstore.com
Tom’s Berry Patch This farm likes to focus on their CSA boxes, which means the little-known fields are often free of U-pick crowds. Kids are welcomed by the friendly staff, and the fields are full of delicious berries. If you didn’t get enough, sign up for a CSA on the way out to make the season last even longer!
Season Opens Call for hours 43775 NW Greenville Rd. Forest Grove, Or 97116 503-327-3717 Online: facebook.com/tomsberrypatch
Planning a vacation is exciting! The possibilities for where to go and what to do are endless. Do you want to relax on a lounge chair by the water or hike up to stunning treetop views? Hit national parks or theme parks? We could do this all day… but you shouldn’t have to! Picking a spot that your whole fam will love doesn’t need to be overwhelming; you just need a few guidelines to make sure everyone will have a blast.
Sure, babies love to cry, but they also love to explore! A beach vacay is perfect for baby. Squishing sand in their teenie hands, dipping toes in the water for the first time—so many new sensations to take in. If you do choose somewhere sunny, just remember that it’s not recommended for kids one year and under to wear sunblock. Be sure to have an umbrella at the ready, and dress them in some fabulous SPF swimsuits to keep their skin safe. Bonus: The calming sound of the surf makes for an ideal nap spot for you both!
Into the Great Wide Open
With a babe in tow, it's a great time to finally have that chill, outdoorsy trip you’ve been dreaming of. Your little one is portable right now, so take advantage of it—they even have special hiking gear just to carry your tiny bean along your travels. How about discovering Montana, where you’ll be able to explore the beauty of nature and kids will enjoy spotting all the farm animals and copying their sounds IRL? Or "go up the county" to the Adirondacks in New York State for some peaceful vibes, gorgeous greenery and sparkling lakes.
‘Threenagers’ & Under
Toddlers can be synonymous with tantrums and much-needed naps. But that shouldn’t stop them (or you!) from having a good time. Look into going somewhere with whole spaces just for them, like a Children’s Museum—this way kids can explore and play in a safe space and get the wiggles out (since they are getting into everything these days!). Maybe plan on an activity like a petting zoo or playground in the morning, then you’ll have time to head back to the hotel for their nap and refresh for your next adventure. Be sure to bring a lightweight stroller and plenty of snacks no matter where you go, and your tot will be happy as a clam.
Time for adventure! What should you look for? Interactive activities! Think big cities or spots with resorts and amusement parks, and lots to do. Aquariums and museums fit the bill, too! How about a visit to the world-renowned Natural History Museum and then simply cross the street to experience the man-made beauty that is Central Park in NYC. Florida, of course, is always an excellent option for family fun, with plenty of choices for theme parks and outdoor water sports. Looking for smaller crowds? Williamsburg, Virginia, boasts a much-loved theme park—Busch Gardens (yup, like the beer!)—also fascinating brewery tours for the whole gang and engaging and immersive history-themed events for all ages.
Big Kids: 8 & Up
Your little kid is becoming a big kid! Let what they’re interested in be your guide for where to go. Into music? Shimmy on over to Nashville, Tennessee, and check out their world-famous Honk Tonks! Is science their thing? Head to Portland, Oregon, where you can visit the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry, one of the largest science museums in the country. At this age, it's also a great time to pay a visit to some of our nation's breathtaking national parks. Arches National Park in Utah, for one, is chockfull of stunning natural rock formations with loads to explore close by—and there are plenty more around the country!
It’s no secret Trader Joe’s has a cult following. From heat and eat meals and fun florals, to unique products you can’t find anywhere else, it can be hard to know where to start as a TJ’s newbie.
Luckily, the grocer has revealed it’s 13th Annual Customer Choice Awards: the yearly rundown on fan faves that take the cake. Continuing in the pandemic tradition, many of the items are the same as last year, but that just goes to show you can always count on Trader’s for your go-to groceries. Keep reading to see who took home the prizes.
A winner for the last several years, this tasty frozen dish makes you a superstar at the stove. Kids and parents will love the saucy meal that pairs great with frozen rice that heats in three minutes.
Favorite Beverage: Non Dairy Oat Beverage
Honestly, we aren't sure how this product over-performed and beat out ginger beer and spiced apple cider, but now we've got to try it.
North county folks, the day has arrived—The Shake Shack, located in The Beacon La Costa, is now open for business. Rumors about the modern-day “roadside” burger stand, known for its 100% all-natural Angus beef burgers, chicken sandwiches, and flat-top Vienna beef dogs opening its fifth San Diego location in Carlsbad, surfaced last year. Burger connoisseurs, young and old, have been anxiously waiting for its grand opening ever since.“We’re thrilled to finally open our doors at The Beacon,” said Andrew McCaughan, Chief Development Officer at Shake Shack. “Our newest Carlsbad Shack is beautifully designed and we’re so excited to finally welcome in the community to dine with us.”
Shake Shack
The La Costa location offers a walk-up window, which gives guests the ability to pre-order via the Shack app and pick up their food from the exterior of the shack. Whether you choose to take out or dine in, we recommend trying the Shroom Burger—the delicious option proves that a "veggie" burger can be the star of the show! The mushroom is breaded, fried, and full of cheese, and can easily be a family favorite.
Shake Shack
Expect to see all the classics on the menu, including the ShackBurger®, Chick'n Shack, crinkle-cut fries and hand-spun shakes. In addition, The Carlsbad Shack will serve up a SoCal regional burger, the Roadside Double featuring a double Swiss cheeseburger with Dijon mustard and onions simmered in beer. Shack-canned Wine, Shackmeister Ale, and local beers are also available Seasonal burgers and drinks will hit the menu in the coming weeks.
Shake Shack is committed to being part of a larger mission to Stand for Something Good® and donated a dollar for every burger sold on opening day to Kids for Peace. Kids for Peace is a California-based global nonprofit that provides a platform for youth to actively engage in socially conscious leadership, community service, arts, environmental stewardship and global friendships.
The Beacon will ultimately offer a collection of restaurants, shops, and lifestyle concepts curated to celebrate the North County Coastal community. Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams is soon to open, joining other local favorites like Lofty Coffe Co. and La Costa Wine Co.
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When it comes to giving gifts for the holidays in 2021, you want to give Dad something he’ll treasure . . . and use. We asked our editors what they’re giving the papas in their life, from the practical to the personal. Read on to see the unique gifts for dads they’re gifting this year.
Keep your favorite beer cold, fresh and carbonated for up to two weeks with this pressurized growler. Not only does it look good on your counter, but you can choose your desired carbonation level for optimal refreshment.
Dad can take his gaming to another level when he jumps into VR with this set. He can also immerse himself in a concert or sporting event, get moving with a fitness program and travel all over the world. Be warned: the teens are going to want to borrow it, for sure.
Dad will love all the bells and whistles that come along with this ultra-durable hoodie like the sunglasses loop, bottle opener pocket and dry pocket. Plus, the style can't be beat.
This will be a fun puzzle for the family to put together over winter break. You can feel good about giving a gift from this women-owned family business that donates a portion of proceeds to marine conservation initiatives.
Get Dad geared up for grilling with this thermometer that he can monitor via an app. It comes with an apron that any dad would be proud to wear at the grill.
Yes, there's a smaller (less-expensive) option to get these treats shipped to your home, but take our advice and go big. With flavors like Pecan Pie and The Elvis, you're going to wish you gifted this to yourself.
