New Spring Trader Joe’s Items That Will Fly Off Shelves

by Kate LowethMarch 20, 2024

Spring at Trader Joe’s brings the cutest plants and lemon everything

Warmer weather, beautiful blooms, tasty treats—that’s right, spring is almost springing! In typical fashion, there are tons of new Trader Joe’s items for the season that will have you more than ready to make a grocery run. With all the lemon products hitting the shelves, we can tell that TJ’s is all in. There are even a few products perfect for school lunches on the list.

Assorted Foliage in a Bunny

These cuties are a top pick for spring every year, and you’ll want to grab one before your store sells out for the season. They come with a variety of plant options so you might have to get yourself a colony.

Candy Coated Dark Chocolate Almonds

These dark chocolate covered almonds are some of Trader Joe's new items for spring

These babies are cute enough for Easter baskets but tasty enough to keep for yourself. They tend to sell out well before the holiday, so snag now before they hop away.

Gourmet Jelly Beans

Just in time for Easter basket stuffing, these big bags of gourmet jelly beans have hit the shelves. You’ll love that they have no artificial colors or flavors. The kids will just love them, period.

Peas & Carrots Sour Gummy Candies

You’ll definitely be able to get the kids to eat their peas and carrots when they come in gummy form. The peas are like sour Skittles and the carrots are a traditional sour gummy candy. Yes, we tried them so that we could report back (that’s the official story, at least).

Pastel Hyacinths

If you’re heading to a spring party this weekend, bring along one of these colorful hyacinths. They’ll dress up any doorstep!

Cheery Lemon Animal Crackers

We’ve never seen these cuties on the shelves before and we know that the kids will go wild to find them in their lunchbox this spring.

Raspberry Kringle

Either you love Kringles or you LOVE Kringles. There’s no in-between. The spring flavor is raspberry and it tops our list for sure. Perfect for breakfast or to share as an after-school snack.

Lemon Mini Sheet Cake

We don’t blame you if this is one of those treats that you don’t share with the kids. You can always find the vanilla version of this cake at Trader Joe’s but the lemon sheet cake is our favorite. It packs just the right amount of sour/sweet punch.

Springle Jangle

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The spring version of this holiday snack mix is cute to have in a bowl for the next party you are planning. It is a mix of yogurt-coated pretzels, butter toffee peanuts, milk and dark chocolate peanut butter cups, broken pieces of dark chocolate Joe-Joe’s, and nonpareils.

Scented Candle Trio

We’re a sucker for all the candles at Trader Joe’s and this one instantly made its way into our cart. You’ll get tiny tins of raspberry/rose, rhubarb/bamboo, and lemon verbena. The lemon is our favorite, naturally.

Mini Succulents

Is it wrong to buy a succulent every time you visit Trader Joe’s? We think not. These cuties were looking extra spring-like with tiny flowers sprouting out of them. Just what you need to get you through the last dreary months before summer comes around.

7 Hotel Hacks to Make Your Room Baby-Friendly

by Meghan Yudes MeyersMarch 6, 2024

A relaxing stay at a hotel sounds like the perfect vacation, but having a baby in a hotel means doing some pre-planning. The focus: potential hazards and figuring out how your child will eat, sleep, and have their diaper changed in your new space. Also, you’ll want to ask questions like: Do hotel rooms have cribs? Read on for 7 tips and hotel hacks so you can rock your room like a parenting pro.

hacks for hotel rooms with cribs — AdobeStock

1. Borrow the hotel's baby supplies.
Many parents have lots of questions when traveling with a baby like, "Do hotel rooms provide cribs?" Most offer cribs free of charge (bring your own sheets), and many lend out high chairs so you can leave the travel chair at home. Some chain hotels even supply bottle warmers, diaper pails, and sound machines. If you're staying at a hotel with minimal options, look online for local rental firms like BabyQuip that can outfit you with everything you need for your room, as well as a stroller for outings.

2. Have necessities delivered.
Why waste suitcase space with extra diapers, wipes, and snacks when you can have them delivered to your hotel? First confirm that your hotel will accept deliveries prior to your arrival, and then put that Amazon Prime membership to good use, or use a local grocery-store delivery service. If you're staying at a higher-end hotel, they will often pre-stock the room with all of your parenting needs.

3. Do an initial cleaning.
When you get into your room, plonk baby on the bed with a toy and give the room a quick cleaning. Bring disinfecting wipes to clean telephones, TV remotes, alarm clocks, door handles, and other objects your child might touch or put in their mouth. Move garbage cans up to countertops so your little one can't get into the trash. Then get on your hands and knees to assess the room from baby level. Are there any coins or small, sharp objects on the floor? Any sharp edges on furniture to watch out for? Did a previous tenant leave anything under the bed or couch that you don't want your child to play with?

4. Create a kitchen.
If your room doesn’t include a kitchen, one of the best hotel hacks is to set up a makeshift command center to handle everything from warming bottles to making oatmeal. The in-room coffee machine can sometimes even steam veggies or boil eggs for your little one. And if your room doesn't have a refrigerator, bring a collapsible cooler to keep your child's food fresh. You can also tote it along on your daily adventures (ice from the ice machine keeps things cool), so it's worth making room for it in your luggage.

hacks for traveling with a baby — AdobeStock

5. Don't forget the tape.
While your home may be decked out in safety locks, corner guards, and outlet covers, all you need to pack to baby-proof the hotel is duct tape. It can be used to secure drapery cords, seal electrical outlets, keep toilet lids and mini-fridges closed, and more. If your furniture has sharp edges, place a washcloth over the edge and tape it in place! Running low on tape? In a pinch, Band-Aids can cover outlets to keep curious fingers safe.

6. Create baby stations for daily tasks.
Since hotel rooms aren't set up for children, finding space to change diapers or heat bottles can be tricky. Designate the desk or dresser as your baby changing station and move other items to a different spot. Pack a small bag or portable changing station to keep diaper cream, wipes, and diapers organized. A hanging cosmetic case attached to a door can double as a bottle-making station.

7. Ensure a good night’s sleep.
Re-creating the soothing comforts of home can help your child, and you, sleep better. If your child falls asleep to music or a noise machine at home, bring them. (If you play them through your smartphone, placing it in a coffee cup can help amplify the volume.) If you’re using the hotel’s crib, bring your own sheets for a sanitized snooze that smells, feels, and looks like home. If your baby is used to sleeping in their own room, create a separate space by placing the crib in the bathroom or closet, or tucking the crib behind the couch or TV. And if your baby can’t get comfortable in an unfamiliar bed, make a baby nest by rolling extra-large hotel towels lengthwise on the mattress to form a pod and placing a spare fitted sheet (check the closets for extras) over the mattress to make a cozy sleeping space.

Make sure to capture all your best travel moments—and share them with your family and friends near and far—with the Tinybeans app. The secure platform puts parents in total control of who sees and interacts with photos and videos of their kids.

19 Easy Valentine’s Day Gifts That Kids Can Make

by Nikki WalshJanuary 1, 2024

Love is in the air, and it doesn’t always have to be about fancy flowers and tasty treats. We’ve found 18 unique DIY Valentine’s Day gifts that kids can make (they’re no joke!) and that you (or whoever the lucky person is) will actually want to keep. Get ready to create something unique that comes straight from the heart. Don’t forget to check out our favorite homemade Valentine’s Day cards too!

Illustrated Magnets

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We love this sweet DIY Valentine’s gift idea! All you need is glass marbles, white cardstock, pens, Modge Podge, and hot glue.

Black Glue Heart Art

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Black glue might not be top of mind when you think about homemade Valentine’s gifts, but this project is stunning and good for all crafting levels. Get the details and the printable template from Red Ted Art.

Heart-Shaped Tea Bags

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These adorable heart-shaped tea bags will make tea lovers smile as they steep their morning cup.

Heart Decorated Jars

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Decorate these jars with hearts and Valentine’s Day designs, then fill them with whatever treat you’d like.

Heart-Shaped Pencil Toppers

Pencil this idea in, and you have a pretty gift for your Valentine. We love The Best Idea for Kids use of pipe cleaners and Valentine pencils to put together this clever craft that becomes a heartfelt gift.

Coffee Filter Hearts

What better way to say "I love you" than with a pretty coffee filter heart? Simple Fun for Kids shows the how-to for this craft that makes a perfect gift. You’ll need coffee filters, markers, and an eyedropper (or something similar) then let your little artist go to it.

Paper Airplane Valentines

This DIY Valentine’s gift soars above the rest. Mom Leslie over at Pink Stripey Socks gives the step-by-step on how to make these adorable paper airplane Valentines. Not only are they fun to make, but also they make a cool gift.

Heart-Shaped Paper Clips

If you’re down to the last minute and need a quick (and cute!) gift, then these heart-shaped paper clips do the trick. Click through to How About Orange for the how-to. Even more, add a sweet note or a new book, and you're done.

Heart Tea Towels

What’s more fun than stamping your heart out? We love Clumsy Crafter’s cute and elegant DIY heart tea towels. Grab those potatoes, carve, stamp, and follow the directions. You’ll have tons of fun!

Shake Painting Heart Gift

Your budding Picasso can make a Valentine’s Day gift with this easy-to-do shake painting. Head over to No Time for Flashcards to find out how to do this fun craft. Pick your colors, throw in hearts, and shake. It's the perfect present.

Heart Magnets

For a gift that will stick around past February, these heart magnets from Idlewife are awesome. They’re pretty easy to make, but leave yourself enough time to let them harden after you’ve sculpted them.

Love Monsters

How cute are these little love monsters from Eighteen 25? Using yarn, pipe cleaners, and googly eyes, they’re super fun to make, and we love that each one is unique.

Candy-Filled Tackle Box

candy tackle boxes are a cute diy valentine's gift — Close to Home

If you’ve got a fisherman in your life (or a candy lover), she or he will get a kick out of this clever gift from Close to Home. Fill up the tackle box with Swedish fish and gummy worms, then attach a little tag.

Decorated Coffee Mugs

Here’s a heartfelt gift that budding artists can make with a cup, glossy paint, and a small paintbrush. Get the instructions from Inside My Hideaway.

Paper Bookmark

a heart-shaped paper heart is a fun DIY Valentine's gift — How About Orange

Who’s number one in your book? With just a few creases and folds you can make this origami bookmark heart. Make a few and give them to friends who love to read. Go to How About Orange for the simple tutorial.

Antique Wood Hearts

a heart-shaped wood ornament is a cool DIY Valentine's Gift — Melissa via Fireflies and Mud Pies

While not for the faint of heart (see what we did there?), we adore this DIY Valentine's Day gift from Fireflies and Mud Pies. Your kids can make one using paint, an antiquing medium, a wood heart, and twine.

Colorful Sun Catchers

Hearts will be full when the kids hand off a brightly colored heart sun catcher this Valentine's Day. Give your kids a salad spinner, coffee filter, paint, and paper, then watch them create from the heart. Mom Kristina gives us the know-how over at Toddler Approved.

Simple Knot Bracelets

These heart-shaped bracelets will help your kid let her BFFs know that life would knot be the same without them. Head over to The Nerd’s Wife for an easy tutorial that requires a paracord and scissors.

Love Bugs

DIY Valentine's Gifts — Katie via A Little Pinch of Perfect

Go buggy with this cute craft from A Little Pinch of Perfect. You can help your kids make one with a tin can, craft paper, googly eyes, and a pipe cleaner.

This Mom’s Answer to ‘Is Santa Real?’ Is Worth Stealing

By Leslie Rush

Tinybeans Voices Contributor

December 12, 2023

This plan to help your kid “become a Santa” is honestly the greatest

In our family, we have a special way of promoting the kids from being on Santa’s list to becoming a Santa themselves. This way, the Santa construct is not a lie that gets discovered, but an unfolding series of good deeds and Christmas spirit. When they are eight or nine—whenever you see that dawning suspicion that Santa may not be a material being— that means the child is ready.

I take them out “for coffee.” We get a booth, order our drinks, and the following pronouncement is made: “You sure have grown an awful lot this year. Not only are you taller, but I can see that your heart has grown, too.” I point out two to three examples of empathetic behavior, consideration of people’s feelings, good deeds, etc, the kid has done in the past year.

“In fact, your heart has grown so much that I think you are ready to become a Santa Claus. You’ve probably noticed that most of the Santas you see are people dressed up like him. Some of your friends might have even told you that there is no Santa. A lot of children think that because they aren’t ready to BE a Santa yet, but YOU ARE.

“Tell me the best things about Santa. What does Santa get for all of his trouble? We work our way from “cookies” to the good feeling of having done something for someone else. “Well, now YOU are ready to do your first job as a Santa!”

Now for the fun part! Make sure you maintain the proper conspiratorial tone…

Santa is about being generous

We then have the child choose someone they know—a neighbor, usually. The child’s mission is to secretly, deviously, find out something that the person needs, and then provide it, wrap it, deliver it—and never, ever reveal to the target where it came from. Being a Santa isn’t about getting credit, you see. It’s about unselfish giving.

My oldest chose the “witch lady” on the corner. She really was horrible—had a fence around the house and would never let the kids go in and get a stray ball or frisbee. She’d even yell at them to play quieter. He noticed that she came out every morning to get her paper in bare feet, so he decided she needed slippers.

His next task was to go spy on her and decide how big her feet were. He hid in the bushes one Saturday and decided she wore a medium, so we went and bought warm slippers. He wrapped them up and tagged them: “Merry Christmas from Santa.” After dinner, he slipped down to her house and slid the package under her driveway gate.

Santa is about being a helper

The next morning, we watched as she waddled out to get the paper, picked up the present, and went inside. My son could hardly contain his excitement and couldn’t wait to see what would happen next. The next morning, as we drove off, there she was, out getting her paper—wearing the slippers. He was ecstatic. I had to remind him that no one could ever know what he did, or he wouldn’t be a Santa.

Over the years, he chose a good number of targets, always coming up with a unique present just for them. One year he chose the daughter of some friends of ours, who were going through some tough times. With the help of his father, he polished up his bike, put a new seat on it, and with her parents’ permission, placed it on their back porch. The look on her face when she saw the bike with a big bow on it was almost as good as the look on my son’s face.

When it came time for son #2 to join the ranks, my eldest came along and helped with the induction speech. They are both excellent gifters, by the way, and never felt that they had been lied to—because, instead, they were let in on the “Secret of Being a Santa.”

Leslie Rush

Tinybeans Voices Contributor

Leslie Rush dons a Santa hat at Christmas, but wears many others throughout the year. She is a wife, mother and grandmother, as well as a teacher and a writer. She lives in El Paso, Texas, and has recently completed Dreamwalkers, a Young Adult novel.

17 Unique Hostess Gifts That Are So Good, You’ll Get Invited Everywhere

by Kate LowethDecember 6, 2023

These hostess gift ideas will make them feel so appreciated

Whether you’re heading to a holiday party or invited for a weekend visit, you’ll want to make sure you don’t show up empty-handed. Hostess gifts may be a little old-fashioned, but that’s because they really are a classic move that will never go out of style. Thanking your hostess (or host, of course) for their hospitality and any work they’ve put into making you, their guest, feel welcome, is always considerate. Although the sentiment has never gotten old, the gift itself changes from decade to decade. So, you’ll need some hostess gift ideas, especially with the upcoming holiday season.

These carefully curated gifts will please any hosts, even your hard-to-shop-for-sister-in-law. They’ll be welcome additions to their home, pantry, and every day, plus many of them actually make their next event that much easier to put together. Scroll down for our favorite hostess gift ideas for 2023.

TBH Vineyards Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

this pinot noir from TBH vineyards is a good hostess gift idea — TBH Vineyards

A bottle of wine is always a good idea when it comes to a hostess gift. This wonderful Pinot Noir is made from 100% estate-grown organic grapes from Small Vines on the Sonoma Coast and is a full-bodied wine with hints of cherries, a floral scent, and a lovely lingering flavor.

TBH Vineyards Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir ($104)—Buy Here!

Copper Whistling Tea Kettle

This cute kettle bundled with some of your favorite hot cocoa and gourmet marshmallows make a fun family gift (with a bit of style thrown in).

Copper Whistling Tea Kettle ($37.80)—Buy Here!

Pizza Accessories Kit

Set them up for family pizza night with this set that comes with two pizza peels, a spatula and a rocking cutter.

Pizza Accessories Kit ($65.99)—Buy Here!

Beekman 1802 Goat Milk Caddy Set

Goat milk is known for its moisturizing qualities. We love gifting this soap and lotion set especially since its fragrance-free and includes a counter caddy.

Beekman 1802 Goat Milk Caddy Set ($30.80)—Buy Here!

Tipsy Turvy Bar Glass Set

Who wouldn't want to toast with these gorgeous glasses? Champagne, sparking cider, or your favorite La Croix—we're using them for everything.

Tipsy Turvy Bar Glass Set ($32.95)—Buy Here!

Bamboo Multi-Level Cheese Board Set

Help enhance their next gathering with this pretty cheese board set, complete with 3 cutting and serving tools.

Bamboo Multi-Level Cheese Board Set ($79.99)—Buy Here!

Hoya Heart Succulent

This succulent will look darling on a windowsill and it needs very little maintenance (and is therefore the perfect gift, of course).

Hoya Heart Succulent ($39.99)—Buy Here!

Gold Leaf Glassware

Glassware with a city map in 22-carat gold leaf is sure to endear your host to you even when your kid locks themselves in the bathroom in the middle of the party. Choose from 22 popular cities.

Gold Leaf Glassware ($23.95)—Buy Here!

Rainbow Agate Coaster Set of 4

Protect furniture from glass rings and toddler spills with this lovely coaster set of 4.

Rainbow Agate Coaster Set of 4 ($45.99)—Buy Here!

Superstitchous Blanket

San Francisco mom Samira Khoshnood created Superstitchous while on maternity leave after the birth of her first child. We love gifting these cozy blankets to pretty much anyone. Especially with a variety of charming prints and sizes, you can't go wrong.

Superstitchous Blanket ($88.00+)—Buy Here!

anecdote candles

Made of long-lasting soy wax and hand-poured in California, these are a chic-meets-cheeky offering. There are a bunch of different single and bundle options to fit your favorite hostess's personality.

anecdote candles ($14.00+)—Buy Here!

Chocolarder Drinking Chocolate

What's better than hot cocoa? Drinking chocolate is a blend of cocoa and grated chocolate for a next-level (and super indulgent) gift.

Chocolarder Drinking Chocolate ($25.00)—Buy Here!

Paper Vase Wraps

The perfect gift wrap for that bouquet of flowers you can grab on your way over; use a recycled jar, a can or a simple vase and make it dressy. Coated paper stock in lots of different color choices.

Paper Vase Wraps ($19.00)—Buy Here!

Fig Lemontini Craft Cocktail Kit

A botanical blend of fruits, herbs, and spices that only require adding the recommended choice of spirits for the perfect cocktail.

Fig Lemontini Craft Cocktail Kit ($28.00+)—Buy Here!

YETI Rambler 10 oz Wine Tumbler

Your hostess can keep her drink of choice cool while she gets everything ready when you gift her a Yeti Tumbler.

YETI Rambler 10 oz Wine Tumbler ($46.00)—Buy Here!

Classic Cowgirl Cheese Collection

A perfect trio of cheese from one of the country's best cheesemakers. Includes a decadent triple cream Mt Tam, funky and buttery Red Hawk, and versatile aged Wagon Wheel.

Classic Cowgirl Cheese Collection ($89.95)—Buy Here!

PureWine Purifier Wands

Filter out sulfites with this simple wine filter and say goodbye to wine headaches. Simply add one to each glass you pour and in 3 minutes, you'll have a clean-tasting filtered glass of your favorite grapes.

PureWine Purifier Wands ($11.99+)—Buy Here!

Bloom Tamarind Wood Bowl

Filled with lemons or a large salad, this bowl is a stunner they'll love displaying.

Bloom Tamarind Wood Bowl ($99.95)—Buy Here!

—Kate Loweth, Amber Guetebier, Gabby Cullen, & Kate Cartia

All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.

If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.

All images courtesy of retailers.

Genius Items You Can Find on Amazon for Around $5 or Less

by Shahrzad WarkentinOctober 7, 2023

Some of the best Amazon products don’t cost an arm and leg

The only thing better than avoiding a shopping trip with kids in tow is scoring an amazing deal. Thanks to Amazon, you can have both. We discovered the best Amazon products and deals right now (most of them are $5 or less!) that will not only make your life easier but will save you money, too. Now that’s a win. And many of them aren’t even discounted for Prime Day, meaning you’ll be able to take advantage of these deals whenever you need to rebuy.

In the market for kitchen supplies? We’ve got them. Budget beauty goodies? Found those, too. Not sure what? Just scroll our list to find some of the best Amazon products that are so wallet-friendly, you won’t even feel guilty for filling your cart (not that you ever should. But just in case.). Plus, there are several products you can set up subscriptions for and they’ll automatically shipped at an even larger discount. Saving time? Check. Saving money? Check. Check out some of the best and most affordable Amazon items we’re filling our carts with.

NYX Butter Lipgloss in Vanilla Cream Pie

$5 BUY NOW

This viral lip color has a cult following (thanks to it's neutral-pink hue that's universally flattering and non-sticky formula). Get NYX's Vanilla Cream Pie Butter Gloss for less than $5.

Natural Pumice Stone 2pk

$4 BUY NOW

Whether it's hot out (hello, sandals) or cold (dry heel skin catching on your socks—shudder), keeping your feet soft and smooth with these pumice stones is really easy.

Travel Pill Organizer

$5 BUY NOW

With 8 compartments in various sizes, it's easy to organize any medications and vitamins in this handy case.

6 Pack Large Hair Claw Clips

$6 BUY NOW

Claw clips are back in a major way, and this set has every on-trend version you keep seeing everywhere.

Portable Mini Heating Bag Sealer

$5 BUY NOW

It's easy to keep your chips, cookies, and any other edibles fresh! All you have to do is heat the sealer and run it across the top of the bag for an airtight seal.

Fresh Stretch Pod for Avocados

$7 BUY NOW

Finally, a way to ensure your avocado doesn't go brown. Think of all the cash you'll save because you won't have to toss the other half.

Clip-On Light

$4 BUY NOW

Your partner wants to hit the hay, but you've just gotten to the good part of the book. Simply pull out this clip-on light, and everyone wins. It's also great for traveling!

e.l.f. Flawless Finish Foundation

$6 BUY NOW

Don't believe that this $6 foundation is worth it? Just check out the almost 30k Amazon reviewers who rave about it.

2-in-1 Dustpan Groove Cleaning Brushes

$7 BUY NOW

How's this for a genius cleaning tool? You can use them on baseboards, and the little brush works wonders in door, window and shower tracks, in corners, and much more. Plus, check out the tiny dust pan.

Ring Size Adjuster

$5/5pk BUY NOW

Are your rings too big? This set of silicon noodles will keep your baubles from swinging. They're easy to use and clean.

Drawer Organizer

$6 BUY NOW

There are a ton of uses for these drawer organizers around the house, and with this price, you can afford to buy a few.

Elephant Nightlights

$3 BUY NOW

These sweet, color-changing LED lights will bring a cozy glow to a bedroom.

Initial Necklace

$8 BUY NOW

This is an adorable stocking stuffer for kids and tweens. Available in the whole alphabet, of course.

Clear Ouchless Hair Elastics

$3 BUY NOW

Those clear elastics everyone uses in the hair tutorials on IG—here ya go.

Stainless Steel Straws

$4 BUY NOW

With plastic straw bans steadily growing across the globe, you won't want to leave home without your reusable straws. With these, you can keep a set at home and put a set in your bag for when you're out and about.

Geometric Hair Clip

$5 BUY NOW

Dress up that mom-do with this stylish triangle hair clip that looks way more expensive than its price tag.

Chalkboard Labels

$5 for 36 labels BUY NOW

These labels can be used on everything from mason jars to wine glasses, and as a bonus, they're reusable! Kitchen organization has never been this easy.

Cradle Cap Brush

$4 BUY NOW

Deal with baby's cradle cap and first wisps of hair with this soft 2-in-1 brush from Safety 1st.

Onion Slicer

$6 BUY NOW

Never suffer from ill-chopped onions again! This stainless steel onion slicer is worth every penny.

Travel Flossers

$4 BUY NOW

For those days when you're on the go, having micro dental flossers stashed away in your bag makes it easy to keep pesky dental debris at bay.

Neoprene Coffee Cup Sleeves

$5 BUY NOW

Not only does your morning cup of Joe look way cuter, but you're reducing your carbon footprint with these reusable insulated cup sleeves.

Magic Eraser

$5/6pk BUY NOW

You can never have too many of these miracle workers when you have kids at home.

Baby Bottle Brush

$5 BUY NOW

This handy tool makes cleaning baby bottles and sippy cups a snap.

Sponge Caddy

$7 BUY NOW

When spills happen (it's inevitable when kids are in the picture), your sponge and scrub brush will be right at hand with this caddy.

Plastic Bag Holder

$6 BUY NOW

Anything that clears up the clutter of bags for a few bucks, like this super-affordable organizer, is worth a shot. It comes in multiple prints, too.

Tenacious Fabric Repair Tape

$6 BUY NOW

This handy stuff comes in seven colors and immediately bonds to nylon, mesh, vinyl, rubber and plastic, which is ideal for repairing items like tents, jackets, sleeping bags, water bottles and more. Be sure to pack a roll for your next camping trip.

—Shahrzad Warkentin, Karly Wood, & Kate Cartia

All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.

If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.

All images courtesy of retailers.

41 Hilarious Parenting Memes to Get You Through the Day

by Jacqui BolandJuly 5, 2023

Laughter is the best medicine for what ails you—kids

Parenting memes are the antidote for a tough day (or even an average one), and we’re betting there are a few out there you can really relate to. From “Yes! This happened to me five minutes ago!” to out-and-out guffaws because it happens every night, give yourself five minutes (lock yourself in the bathroom if necessary) and give yourself a good laugh over these hysterical mom memes.

It never fails.

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A post shared by Scary Mommy (@scarymommy)

PG ratings just aren’t what they used to be.

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A post shared by Raising Teens Today (@raisingteenstoday)

What’s your name again??

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A post shared by Tinybeans (@tinybeanskids)

Fill up on gas while you’re at it.

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A post shared by Tinybeans (@tinybeanskids)

Do you promise?

https://www.instagram.com/p/BmwxUoSl_Rh/?hidecaption=true

The struggle is real.

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A post shared by Mom and Buried (@momandburied)

Okay so carry the one and then, wait, what the?

"Grandma let's me..."

Taste the rainbow.

The Dude abides...

It's that time of year again...

Jekyll, meet Hyde.

How can such a small person take up so much space?

So. Many. Cookies.

We don't mean to waste coffee...

Please, please, rinse your dang bowl.

You should see the cheese sticks.

Mommy is binge-watching right now, kids. Step away.

Yep

Nice cannonball, honey!

Hey, beggars can't be choosers.

Because: Seven Seconds

Sad, but true.

Genius mom hack of the century.

Oh, for forks sake!

Adulting is super hard sometimes.

Keepin' it real, always.

When slow and steady does not win the race

Every. Single. Time

Coffee is a part of the food pyramid, right?

What your baby is really thinking.

Nice cannonball, honey!

The parent's Tall, Grande & Venti:

Again, I don't know what yogurt-covered pretzels you are talking about.

Can we just hose them off, instead?

When you gotta go, you gotta go...

Life's little pleasures!

The real cost of crafting.

So close, yet so far.

Did I stutter?

See above!

And this year's Parenting of the Year Award goes to:

Cookies for lunch!!!

The 12 Best Doughnut Shops in LA Worth Driving through Rain & Traffic

by Shahrzad WarkentinMarch 3, 2023

Stuffed or simple, here are the best doughnuts in LA worth your time, money and their caloric intake

No matter how you spell it (donut or doughnut?) LA is a doughnut town thanks to glaze-blazers like Ted Ngoy aka: The Donut King who helped proliferate doughnut shops across SoCal. And in true LA-style, the following doughnut shops have put their own twist on the not-just-for-breakfast treat. Here’s our list for the best doughnuts in Los Angeles that are worth making an extra special trip to another part of town—traffic (and calories) be damned.

The Best Doughnuts in LA (in No Particular Order)

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1. Sidecar Doughnuts & Coffee

Consistently recognized as having the best doughnuts in LA, Sidecar has a cult-like following thanks to their creative, small batch flavors that showcases seasonal ingredients. Their Maple Bacon is probably their most well-known but we think the Saigon Cinnamon Crumb and the Dulce de Leche Churro is the cat’s meow. PS: Have you checked out their Culver City location yet?

Good to Know: The Malasada is a stuffed doughnut fill with a custom flavor, rolled in cardamom sugar and is only available on Mon. so plan your trip accordingly.

Various Locations
Online: sidecardoughnuts.com

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2. Fantastic Donuts & Croissants

The only reason to even hesitate ever taking a bite of these delightful doughnuts is that they are just so ridiculously adorable—doughnuts decorated to look like things that aren’t doughnuts get us every time. While they are known for their rotund pigs and cows, they’ve pulled together “sushi” boxes, “Among Us” characters, a box of “fruit” and more. For a specialty box, email your order at least 24-48 hours in advance.

1101 S Vermont Ave.
Koreatown
Online: fantasticdonutla.wix.com

3. Colorado Donuts

Sesame Street fans will go ga-ga for the awesome specialty donuts decorated to look like Elmo and Cookie Monster. Cute and cuddly is not the only form Colorado’s Donuts come in though. They also offer creative concoctions that seem like they came straight from a five-year old’s mind, like cronuts crammed with Oreos and Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, because why choose one flavor when you can have both?

Pro Tip: Don’t miss the breakfast cereal-topped donuts, like Fruity Pebbles or their special drops (check their Instagram) for specialities like the Birthday Cookie Surprise doughnut.

1578 W Colorado Blvd.
Eagle Rock
Online: instagram.com/coloradodonuts

4. Blue Star

This Portland transplant is now a best-in-LA doughnut staple. These artisanal, crafted doughnuts are simple compared to the dessert explosions of their competitors but that’s what makes them so appealing for young palates. Brioche-style, they are light as air so you won’t be left with that rock-in-the-pit-of-your-belly feeling after eating them.

Our favorites include: Sugar and Spice, Chocolate Buttermilk, Lemon Poppyseed and of course, Chocolate Almond Ganache (pictured).

Various Locations
Online: bluestardonuts.com

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5. B Sweet Dessert Bar

Think you can’t improve on the doughnut? What about stuffing one with delicious ice cream? Donut ice cream sandwiches are the sweet bomb and B Sweet Dessert Bar is one of the originators of this tasty trend. The Hot Pressed Halo, as it’s called, features ice cream of your choice, heat-sealed inside of a glazed doughnut. We petty convinced the ‘B’ in B Sweet stands for Brilliant.

Various Locations
Online: mybsweet.com

6. Donut Friend

While their customizable doughnuts are still on pause due to COVID, you can still choose a buffet-worth of doughnuts from their signature compilations, like Strawberrylab and Angry Samoa. Head over to York Park playground after so you can burn off all of that sugar-laden energy or if you’re around ROW DTLA on a Sun., swing by SmorgasburgLA for a visit with your best Donut Friend.

Good to Know: Not only are all of their doughnuts vegan, you can order a giant doughnut that is 7-8″ in diameter.

Various Locations
Online: donutfriend.com

7. Bob’s Coffee & Doughnuts

Located in The Original Farmer’s Market, these made-fresh daily doughnuts have legions of fans willing to line and wait (yep, they’re that good!). Nothing beats the classic glazed but the Maple Bacon Bar gets two thumbs up as well. Kids will love the dinosaur and Hello Kitty shapes.

Good to Know: It’s cash only.

6333 W. 3rd St.
Los Angeles
Online: bobsdonutsla.com

8. Birdies LA

Their signature doughnut flavors include Horchata Twist with Dulce de Leche, Candied Bacon Maple and Cinnamon Toast Crunch, but they also rotate and feature all kinds of specialty glazes and toppings to wow your donut connoisseurs. YUM. Oh, and did we mention they also serve fried chicken?

Various Locations
Online: birdiesla.com

9. Blinkie’s Donut Emporium

Blinkie’s has been a Woodland Hills doughnut staple (and Kardashian go-to) for good reason. Though they offer a wide variety of doughnut flavors the simple, glazed black and whites are hands-down the best. Despite being large in size and taste, these babies are light as air.

4884 Topanga Canyon Blvd.
Woodland Hills
Online: blinkiesdonuts.com

10. RING Baked Tofu Donuts

These GMO and gluten-free doughnuts are baked (not fried) and may not look as razzle-dazzle as some of the others on our list, but their simple, cake-like flavor won our kid tester’s shinning approval. They offer straight-forward flavors, like double chocolate, banana bread and red velvet.

‪6800 Owensmouth Ave.
Woodland Hills
Online: ringdonuts.com

11. Randy’s Donuts

Despite all the new pop-ups, LA is still filled with dozens of old-school doughnut shops that are well-worth a visit, and the most iconic by far is Randy’s. A glimpse of the giant doughnut sitting on top of the roof alone will excite your pint-sized doughnut lovers. If you hit the original location, there’s no real space to hang out here, so grab a dozen of the classics and head over to the grassy knoll near LAX to watch airplanes land. Best morning ever.

Various Locations
Online: randysdonuts.com

12. Voodoo Doughnut

The first LA location of this time-honored Portland doughnut tradition is a must-stop when you’re headed to the Universal CityWalk. The first thing your doughnut-loving tots are sure to notice is the bright pink color everywhere. That, and the gigantic voodoo doughnut that greets you out front. The only thing more exciting is the doughnut case inside. With flavors like Grape Ape, Mango Tango, the Voodoo Bubble, Bacon Maple Bar, The Homer, Triple Chocolate and Butterfinger, you will definitely fulfill everyone’s sugar fix.

100 Universal City Plaza
Universal City
Online: voodoodoughnut.com

Girl Buy: NYC Women-Owned Businesses We Love

by Lambeth HochwaldFebruary 28, 2023

More than one of these ladies kicked a career to the curb to set up shop. Inspiration right this way…

It’s International Women’s Day on March 8, but shouldn’t every day be an opportunity to celebrate the accomplishments and work of our female friends? In honor of the many enterprising ladies in town, we’re spotlighting some of our favorite women entrepreneurs running businesses in NYC. Take a look, then go spend in solidarity!

DA SPOT NYC

DA SPOT NYC, a unique fashion boutique in City Point, Brooklyn, not only features 25-plus independent creative brands by people of color but it also houses C.A.N.V.A.S. Art Gallery, featuring the work of local artists. Co-owner Michelle Cadore's goal is to create a unique space to amplify the voices of Black and POC creatives. “As native New Yorkers and Brooklynites like me and my partners liken running a business here to living our wildest dreams out loud. The other thing that drives me forward: Being able to support the local community," she says.

445 Albee Square West
City Point
Online: daspotnyc.com

Yu & Me Books

Lucy Yu is not even 30 yet, but she's opened NYC's first female-owned Asian American bookstore in Chinatown. The shop, which is also a cafe and bar debuted in late 2021. It highlights works by Asian authors and books that feature the stories of immigrants. Closed Mondays.

44 Mulberry St.
Chinatown
Online: yuandmebooks.com

Cricket’s Candy Creations

Cricket Azima is clearly always cooking up something (she's founder of Kids Food Festival, The Creative Kitchen and author of Everybody Eats Lunch & Everybody Can Cook) but her latest project is Cricket’s Candy Creations in Tribeca. Kids (and parents) can create and play with candy of all kinds (edible slime, candy jewelry, delicious fingerpaint, etc.), enjoy candy-themed films in the screening room, marvel at Wonka-esque installations and more. And of course, you can host a birthday party here or even go to camp.

200 Hudson St.
Tribeca
Online: cricketscandy.com

Gooey On the Inside

We know it may be hard to believe, but some people say Kafi Dublin's Gooey On the Inside cookies rival a certain other cookie with a cult following in NYC. (Starts with an "L"...) Named for their distinct, some would argue ideal, texture, these cookies come in classic and creative flavors that include chocolate chip, s'mores and Cap'n Crunch peanut butter. (Or get a molten cookie in a jar. Yum.) Good to know: cookie Happy Hour runs from 4-6 p.m., when $5 cookies are $3.

163 Chrystie St.
Lower East Side
Online: gooeyontheinside.com

Dopple

Love cute, fashionable and distinct kids' clothes but not so into the cost (or trying to find them in the right size?) Check out Dopple, the creation of co-founder and CEO Chao Wang. This subscription service for stylish and affordable clothing for children, which offers pieces from brands such as Stella McCartney, Chloé, Bonpoint and Dôen, makes it easy to up your kid's look without going broke. You can also order a single "Dopple Drop", a cute starter outfit set for newborns (in various styles) as a gift for new parents.

Online: thedopple.com

Love Adorned

Love Adorned is fine jewelry and lifestyle store (and experience) founded by Lori Leven. Head here for unique and vintage jewelry pieces, curated housewares, dried flowers, good-smelling stuff (soap, incense, candles), fun things for kids and more. Visit them in the Village or in Amagansett.

269 Elizabeth St.
West Village

156 Main St.
Amagansett
Online: loveadorned.com

Union Square Play

Run by local moms, Union Square Play offers classes, workshops and open play for members, while also serving as a place and forum for parents to connect. In addition to in-person events, they host many virtual meetups and new mom groups. The pandemic meant closing the original space; now you'll find them on 11th and a Lalo on Bond Street, where select classes are held.

67 E. 11th St.
Greenwich Village
Online: unionsquareplay.com

Babe of Brooklyn

At Babe of Brooklyn, the goal has always been to develop old-school all-natural grooming/beard-care products. “One of the greatest things for us are the people we have encountered along our journey. Being in NYC has fueled our outlook on how we approach the business and life by making sure we gain access to and provide quality products and making sure all things Babe of Brooklyn are genuine," says owner Tameka Allen

Online: babeofbrooklyn.com

Saskia

At Saskia, a jewelry studio in Industry City, every bead tells a story and every beaded necklace or bracelet (whether you make it using a DIY kit or purchase one that owner Saskia de Vries has created) is as unique as you are. “I love doing business in NYC for the same reason I always wanted to live here—the mix of cultures, the human interest, the appreciation for flair and color and the adoration of art in all forms," she says.

67 35th St.
Industry City
718-369-2151
Online: shopsaskia.com

Awesome Brooklyn

At Awesome Brooklyn, a gift shop in Prospect Lefferts Gardens that opened in 2017, the specialty is gifts that are so awesome you’ll want them for yourself. Last year brought the introduction of Awesome Home store, located next door. Keep an eye on the Awesome Brooklyn Instagram for the latest products coming into the shop, and the creative window displays owner Vanessa Raptopoulos designs.

617 Flatbush Ave.
Prospect Lefferts Gardens
Online: awesomebrooklyn.com

Clever Alice

At Clever Alice, a Nolita shop that hosts multi-brand women’s designer sample sales, it’s always an adventure to browse the racks for dresses, jumpsuits and handbags. Owner Tamara Chaponot is curator in chief, sharing both bargains, fashion forecasts, and thoughts on sustainability.

4 Prince St.
Nolita
Online: cleveralice.com

Bean & Bean Coffee Roasters

When you stop in for coffee at one of the three Bean & Bean Coffee Roasters in NYC, you’re supporting a mother-daughter business that’s all about giving back. The goal of these two coffee sommeliers: To bridge the gender gap in the coffee world by supporting women farmers and helping out the environment by donating part of their profits towards helping injured sloths in coffee-producing countries.

71 Broadway
Financial District

318 8th Ave.
Chelsea
Online: beannbeancoffee.com

The Doughnut Project

Tucked in the West Village since 2015: A doughnut shop with a cult following that might stem from the fact that each hand-crafted pastry draws inspiration from food and cocktails. Best of all, it’s a team of three female employees who are creating these unique gourmet doughnuts, like The Everything and Lemon Love Letter. Co-founder and owner Leslie Polizzotto says that some people even drive into the city on weekends from Connecticut, New Jersey and Long Island to get a doughnut fix.

10 Morton St.
West Village
Online: thedoughnutproject.com

Let's Dress Up

Since 2005, Let’s Dress Up has been the Upper East Side spot for fairytale-themed tea and birthday parties. Since COVID-19, this beloved space has kept is super safe, reopening with small format and private events as well as some virtual offerings. “The greatest thing for us is interacting with the kids, in person or on a screen, and hearing their excitement and laughter as they participate in one of our events," says co-owner Samantha Myers. "Even if it inevitably ends up with them waving a magic wand and pretending to turn me into a frog!”

345 E. 85th St.
Upper East Side
Online: letsdressupnyc.com

WoodSpoon

Home chefs can now provide a ‘taste of home’ via WoodSpoon, a community-based marketplace that has been delivering home-cooked dishes to New Yorkers since its inception in January 2019. Co-founder and CMO Merav Kalish Rozengarten says some of the most popular items are comfort foods like delicious breads, pastas and soups "Like your grandma used to make. You can’t get that at a restaurant.”

Online: eatwoodspoon.com

—with additional reporting by Mimi O’Connor

Holy Cacao! Where to Score the Best Hot Chocolate in Portland

by Hannah JudgeDecember 4, 2022

Nothing quite says winter like sipping on a cup of creamy hot chocolate, Portland parents

While Portland may not boast the snowy winters of the midwest, we can still get our winter sports on with the kids, whether we’re tubing on Mt. Hood, ice skating at Lloyd Center, or just finding a peaceful forested trail in the city to stretch our legs. And you know what pairs well with a day of winter adventuring? A rich and creamy cup of hot cocoa, of course. So if you’re wondering where to score the best cup in town, we’ve got options (including vegan hot cocoa). So get out there and make the most of winter’s cooler days. We’ve got your warm up right here.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CYrfVXpJu1Y/?hidecaption=true

Ranger Chocolate Co.

Who doesn't love chocolates and hot chocolate? Ranger Chocolate Co. has it all from your classic hot cocoa to a Salted Maple Latte. Oh, and don't forget to check out their baked goods like biscotti and shortbread cookies as well as their chocolate-dipped candied ginger and chocolate-covered vanilla bean marshmallows. Everyone will find something they love here.

118 N.E. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.
Portland
Online: rangerchocolate.co

https://www.instagram.com/p/Cj_bPT1yQdW/?hidecaption=true

1927 S'mores Company

The hot drinks at 1927 S'mores will hit the spot. Try a decadent gourmet hot cocoa topped with marshmallows, chocolate drizzle, whipped cream, toffee, or sprinkles with a pumpkin pie s'more on the side. Their s'mores marshmallows are huge, delicious, and the kid won't be able to get enough. They do have a vegan option available.

1126 S.W. Adler St.
Portland
Online: 1927smores.com

Jinju Patisserie

Found yourself and the babes in the Boise district in NE Portland and feeling a little something sweet? Head to Jinju Patisserie for their extremely satisfying, triple-chocolate cocoa, and be sure to grab one of their croissants or cookies for little hands while you're at it. Jinju believes in well-crafted, soul-warming indulgences, and after taking a look at their array of sweet options, you will probably want two of everything. Be sure to text their phone number in advance if you'd like them to set some items aside for pick-up.

4063 N. Williams Ave.
Portland
Online: jinjupatisserie.com

https://www.instagram.com/p/CkGucsvJE2P/?hidecaption=true

Harlow PDX

Is it cold out? Don't stay stranded and undecided on the sidewalk. Head over to Harlow PDX for their host of warm beverage options. This locally owned café and juice bar has beautifully crafted lattes and steamers, such as red velvet cocoa or turmeric golden latte. Whether you choose to head to their SE Hawthorne location or to their newer shop on NW 23rd Ave, you will stave off the cold with Harlow's delicious drinks.

Harlow on Hawthorne
3632 S.E. Hawthorne Blvd.
Portland

Harlow NW
505 N.W. 23rd Ave.
Portland

Online: harlowpdx.com

La Perlita

If you've never visited the EcoTrust building in NW Portland, La Perlita is a great excuse to go for the first time and enjoy a delicious chocolate drink while you're at it. Described by their owners as "a love letter to the people who love coffee," La Perlita is about as authentic as roasters come. They know how to brew up a batch of something with that holiday sweetness we all are craving, so be sure to check out their truly Mexican hot chocolate, garnished with cacao nibs, or a traditional hot chocolate for the kiddos to keep it simple.

721 N.W. 9th Ave.
Portland
Online: reformaroasters.com

https://www.instagram.com/p/CleAqXvMdCN/?hidecaption=true

Tea Chai Té

If you're a Portland native, then this suggestion will come as no surprise! And if you've never been, you should absolutely take the time to check out this Portland staple. Home to a nearly endless menu of teas and handcrafted tea-based lattes and chai, Tea Chai Té is sure to satisfy the desire for a warm drink on a cold day. Not to mention their slew of locations—no matter where you are in town, you're not far from this cozy neighborhood spot. Bring your family and friends down to this tea house for good conversation and even better drinks.

Locations in Portland, Sellwood, and Eugene

Online: teachaite.com

Pip's Original Donuts

Chai. If you just had an extremely pleasurable reaction to reading that word then wait until you step inside Pip's Original Donuts and buy one of their chai lattes—it'll blow your mind! Not to mention their donuts are to die for. A must-try spot for almost any Portland tourist, take a day being a tourist in your own city by visiting Pip's for one of their small-batch chais, spiced apple ciders, or hot chocolates. You'll be sure to add it to your family's weekend go-to, winter or not! And buy a donut when you go, it's worth it.

4759 N.E. Fremont St.
Portland
Online: pipsmobile.com

Additional reporting by Taylor Clifton

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