Sometimes I want to give up on this couple smiling in the photo.
Sometimes I want to give up on the stability, the memories, the relationship built over 22 years. Sometimes I want to leave the man who gets frustrated too easily or often doesn’t see the world the way I do or still leaves the toilet seat up upon occasion. Sometimes I crave a simpler life, one without conflict or obligation or concessions.
Because sometimes marriage is just hard, too hard to see through to the end.
The smiling woman in the photo is not the same person at 44 as she was when she met this man at 22. She is hardened and jaded and often feels broken. She shows more compassion to those in pain because she also suffers, yet sometimes she forgets to dispense empathy to those closest to her. She puts others’ needs before hers because that is simply what mothers do—although sometimes she resents it. She loves hard and full and fierce, but sometimes she wonders if that is enough.
Sometimes I want to give up on this marriage—and I’m not sure what stops me.
Certainly, it is the three young faces that stare back at me over the family dinner table. It may be the fear of living a life without a partner. Perhaps it is the complication of separating two intertwined lives or the thought that the grass is always greener on the other side.
It would not be uncommon or unusual. Many friends entering mid-life echo my sentiments, struggling to keep their marriages afloat, some with more success than others. I’ve watched couples disintegrate before my eyes because of tragedy or betrayal, and other unions slowly rip at the seams because two people grew apart or sought different lives.
So, sometimes, when I want to give up, I look—I mean really look—at the pictures of us. I see the multitude of lines that adorn our faces, the result of so much joy and laughter shared between two souls. Each smile reminds me that we overcame the pain of miscarriages and infertility and deaths and illnesses only because of the strength of the other. The sight of us touching reminds me of the thousands of embraces we’ve shared over two decades and how when he reaches back to grab my hand in a crowd, it still takes my breath away.
And I look into his eyes, and I see that he is still the most decent man I have ever known.
Sometimes marriage is hard, harder than maybe it should be. Giving up may be logical, easier, or sometimes even the right thing to do.
Sometimes I want to give up on this man, but not today.
Because although I’m in the season of marriage that is difficult and exhausting and hard, in these pictures and in this life, there is always a new reason to fall in love with him all over again if I look hard enough.
So, in those times when I want to give up on this couple smiling in the photo, I am reminded that for our marriage “joy cometh in the morning,” as it always does.
Whitney is a freelance writer, social media manager and blogger at Playdates on Fridays, where she discusses family, relationships and w(h)ine. She is an expert in carpool logistics, coffee and making to-go dinners for her family to eat in the minivan. She resides in the suburbs of Chicago with her three tween daughters, husband and her dog that acts more like a cat, Jax.
From freshly fried doughnuts to doughnuts with creative topping combinations, these are the 5 best doughnut shops in DC
When it comes to doughnuts, there is no doubt that the best onesare made withfresh ingredients with just the right amount of sweetness. Add to that, the perfect doughnut should have an airy, light texture and a golden–brown exterior, with a slightly crisp outer layer and a pillowy–soft interior. So where can you find the best doughnut in the DC area? Look no further than our handy list—whether you want a chocolate glazed, jelly-filled, or one of the other 20 (at least!) varieties of donuts, these are by far the best doughnuts in DC that you and the kids will love (and revisit) week after week.
If you’re looking for the best doughnuts in the Washington, D.C. area, you’ll definitely want to check out Astro Doughnuts & Fried Chicken. This trendy shop serves up delicious, made–to–order doughnuts that are sure to satisfy both your sweet tooth and your desire for something unique. While the menu features classic doughnut flavors like glazed, jelly–filled, and powdered sugar, take a adventurous chance on their creative specialty flavors such as Maple Bacon, Apple Fritter, and Toasted Coconut. Looking for something a bit more savory? Astro Doughnuts also serves a variety of fried chicken sandwiches and tenders.
If you’ve lived in DC more than a hot minute, you’re probably already familiar with District Doughnut and Coffee. But they’re still worth a mention for rotating their flavors seasonally. Check out the winter menu featuring such tasty treats as Gingerbread Cookie and Hot Cocoa doughnuts. And if you, or one of your littles, often feel like you’re missing out on the doughnut deliciousness because you can’t have gluten, they even have Gluten-free Fridays where they offer a different flavor donut in its gluten-free form
B Doughnuts has a cult-like following and for good reason: their Hawaiian-style Portuguese doughnuts, called malasadas, are out of this world delicious! Their doughnuts are more savory, such as the Ube-filled (purple yam) or the everything bagel doughnut, making this the perfect shop for those who like their sweet treats a little less sweet. In fact, they even state right on their website that they are “doughnuts for those who don’t really like doughnuts” and say that they may not taste or feel like most donuts. But don’t worry if you only like sweet treats—they still have plenty of the dessert-like flavors too, with a whole collection of more traditionally glazed donuts along with kid-favorite, Cinnamon Toast Crunch, s’mores and Fruity Pebbles-flavored doughnut.
6700 Crain Hwy., Suite 102
La Plata, MD Online:bdoughnut.com
4. Sugar Shack Donuts & Coffee
Sugar Shack Donuts and Coffee is a popular donut shop and coffee house (family, vegan, carnivore and gluten free friendly) based in Virginia. Their specialty doughnuts are made from scratch every day, and they offer a variety of flavors and toppings so each doughnut is as unique as the person ordering it. Keep an eye out for fan-favorite seasonal and holiday specialities.
Sugar Mama’s Donut Bites Food Truckserves up freshly made, small–batch doughnuts with a variety of tasty toppings. The truck can be found at local events and festivals—follow them on Twitter or Facebook to track the truck— but can typically be found on the weekends in Vienna, Falls Church, Dale City & Westover. The menu consists of traditional favorites such as cinnamon sugar, chocolate glazed, and powdered sugar, as well as creative concoctions like donut ice cream sandwiches, donut sundaes, and more. Customers can also customize their donuts with a range of toppings, from fresh berries and nuts to chocolate chips and marshmallows. All of the donuts are made with the highest quality ingredients, and the truck is operated with a commitment to sustainability.
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.
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
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
It’s no surprise you’ve been doing some serious daydreaming about who, exactly, is in there. Before you dive into full-on baby shower planning mode, have some fun trying these at-home baby prediction tests to find out how to tell the gender of your baby. Can a wacky at-home prediction test tell you if you are having a boy or a girl? Well, you’ll have to try these tests to find out. (Regardless of the outcome, these incredible gender-neutral nurseries should have you covered.)
1. Carrying high? That's supposed to mean you'll have a girl, while a low rider means boy.
2. If your skin has that pregnancy glow, chances are you're having a boy, according to one old wives' tale. If you're breaking out, get ready for a girl.
3. Look at your breasts in the mirror. If your right breast is larger than your left, you're having a girl. If your left breast looks larger, it's a boy.
4. Consult a Chinese gender chart, which uses your age and the month you conceived to determine how to tell the gender of your baby.
5. Energetic fetuses are thought to be boys, while chill babes in utero are predicted to be girls.
6. Pee in a cup (you should be a pro at this by now after all those doctor's visits), and then mix in 1 tablespoon of Drano drain cleaner. If the color turns green, you'll have a girl. Blue means it's a boy. (Be careful with this one. Drano can be toxic, so wear gloves and a mask or have someone else do this experiment for you.)
7. At your next prenatal checkup, check out baby's head on the ultrasound. If it's square-shaped, then you're having a boy. If you see a rounder head, it's a girl.
8. Tie a ring on the end of a piece of string. Sit down and have someone hold the string over your belly. If the ring swings in a circle, you're having a girl. If it swings back and forth, it's a boy.
9. That dark line that runs from your pubic bone straight up the center of your belly (known as the linea nigra) is said to indicate baby's sex. If the line stops at your belly button, you're having a girl. If the line continues up to your ribs and chest, it's a boy.
10. The faster baby's heart rate is, the more likely you're having a girl. The slower the heart rate (below 140 beats per minute), the more likely you're having a boy.
11. If the skin on your hands is dry and chapped during pregnancy, you're more likely to be carrying a boy. Smooth skin means it'll be a girl.
12. If you're craving salty foods, then you're pregnant with a boy. Are you jonesin' for something sweet? Then it's a girl you're carrying.
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13. Since you have to pee all the time anyway, pee in a cup one more time. Then drop in some baking soda. If it fizzes, then it's a boy; if it doesn't, it's a girl.
14. Here's another pee test: Boil a head of red cabbage in some water. Save the red cabbage water and mix it in a cup with your urine. If the water turns pink, it means a girl is on its way. If the water is purple, you're having a boy.
15. Next time you wake up in the morning (or from one of those much-needed pregnancy naps), check which side of your body you're sleeping on. Left side indicates boy, while right means girl.
16. This one is similar to the Chinese chart above. The Mayans take the mama's age at conception and add it to the year baby was conceived. If it's an odd number, the baby is a boy. Even means it's a girl.
17. If your morning sickness lasts beyond the first trimester, some people think you're carrying a girl. If your sickness subsides or you didn't have any to begin with (lucky you!), then it's a boy.
18. If your baby bump looks like a basketball, it could be you're having a boy. If your baby bump is more spread out across your waistline, then it's a girl.
While planning for your new arrival, there’s no better time to download the Tinybeans app. The secure platform allows you to share special moments with friends and family near and far and puts parents in total control of who sees and interacts with photos and videos of their littles.
Now that you’ve been to the Museum of Science and Industry and The Field so many times you could lead a tour, it’s time to earn a little extra credit. When you’re craving something new and culture’s on the menu, check out a super-secret museum that’s just a mini road trip away. We dug up goodies that are within an hour’s drive of Chicago. Scroll through to see them all, from a secret nature center to an auto museum with superhero appeal.
Does your kid go crazy for cars? An hour northwest of Chicago, this wheel-tastic museum is a draw for car nuts of all ages. Famous movie cars from Fast & Furious 7, Batman Begins, Dark Knight and Dark Knight Rises, National Lampoon's Vacation and more. There are also plenty of coin kiddie rides for the youngest children in your group.
Open daily, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; 27582 Volo Village Rd., Volo; Online: volocars.com
Illinois Railway Museum
America’s largest railway museum is right here in Illinois and goes way beyond your everyday Metra train. Ride on a one-of-a-kind mainline train, hop aboard an old-fashioned trolley coach or take a loop in a vintage streetcar. Feel like you've seen some of these sights before? That’s because the museum has been the set for numerous transportation scenes in commercials and movies, including A League of Their Own. Perhaps the biggest attraction is the annual Day Out With Thomas. On select days in July, kids chug along on a 20-minute ride on Thomas the Tank Engine and enjoy music, magicians, clowns and a meeting with Sir Topham Hatt. Consider taking a special trip for Halloween or Christmas when the museum features holiday-themed train rides.
Established in 1931, the Hal Tyrrell Trailside Museum of Natural History is a small museum located in a historic mid-1870′s Victorian mansion. Kids will have the chance to meet live native animals, including owls, frogs, turtles and even a fox. Hands-on activities complement learning, and even toddlers will enjoy the easy animal-themed puzzles. Natural-surfaced hiking trails through the surrounding Forest Preserve are perfect for little hikers and wind through beautiful oak woodlands and along the Des Plaines River.
730 Thatcher Ave., River Forest; Online: fpdcc.com
Knock Knolls Nature Center
Tucked in a quiet residential neighborhood, this slice of nature gives visitors the chance to discover what life was like at the convergence of the East and West Branches of the DuPage River in the 1800s. You'll also get to know the local wildlife that call this corner of DuPage County home. Grab a treasure hunt sheet from the front desk and explore! The highlight is a 900-gallon freshwater fish tank filled with catfish, bass and other swimmers. You'll also track replica fossils in the floor, marvel at a living wall of plants and learn how a rainwater collection cistern works. The building sits in a 224-acre park laced with winding, forested trails and sits adjacent to a nature playground.
The Tinker cottage, gardens and three-story Swiss-inspired barn was built by businessman Robert Tinker in 1865. Flash forward to today, when you can witness its beauty and get a dose of local history. The charming cottage and over-the-top gardens have become one of Rockford’s most popular attractions. The Victorian-era decor and unique architecture will satisfy the curiosity of the parents. As for the kids, they'll have a blast romping through the iris, rose and prairie gardens as the weather warms.
Learn about Illinois in the 18th century when our state was home to French voyageurs and native Potawatomi. Operated by the Forest Preserve of Will County on an island in the Des Plaines River, this recently renovated museum features many interactive exhibits and a Native American longhouse. At a recent museum event, children participated in traditional French and Woodland Indian games and storytelling. If you visit the island in the summer, your family will want to take part in one of many nature activities like fishing, kayaking, hiking and more.
501 E. Romeo Rd. (135th Street), east of Route 53, Romeoville; Online: reconnectwithnature.org
DuPage Country Historical Museum
Housed in a building gifted by John Quincy Adams in 1891, the former Adams Memorial Library is now a museum that contains countless artifacts and materials that document DuPage County. The HO Gauge Model Train is operated by the DuPage Society of Model Engineers the 3rd and 5th Saturday every month.
Since 1852, the Graue Mill has been grinding cornmeal, its waterwheel turning at the edge of the picturesque Salt Creek. Today, the Graue Mill Museum is dedicated to bridging past and present through living-history programs that illustrate daily life of the past, including milling, spinning and weaving demonstrations. While the museum is closed in the winter, the grounds of the mill are picture-perfect year-round. Kids will love throwing pebbles into the Salt Creek and watching sticks make their way down the beautiful falls that make the mill's gristmill go round.
Because sometimes nothing hits the spot like a fresh-from-the-oven donut, we’ve scoured the city to find the best donuts in Seattle and came up with a list that is guaranteed to satisfy even the pickiest doughnut aficionado. Powdered, cream-filled, crispy or totally out-of-the-box, this list has it all. Trust us, you “donut” want to miss out on this round-up.
Raised Doughnuts & Cakes
Kathryn Mueller
Mi Kim loved doughnuts, and that infatuation inspired her journey to open Raised Doughnuts and Cakes. They don’t use preservatives, fillers or artificial coloring, and the quality shines through in the taste. They offer a menu of original donuts that are tried and true as well as rotating flavors that mix it up. In April, you can try flavors like Strawberry Balsamic or Chocolate Chip Cookie.
Good to know: This sweet spot is moving to a new location in Midtown Square mid-April (2301 E. Union St., Suite L). Swing by for their grand re-opening on April 23.
Top Pot Doughnuts began in 2002 in Capitol Hill. Since then this indispensable Seattle-based doughnut shop has grown substantially. Today, you can find locations all over the Seattle area and beyond. We love their classic doughnuts, but they also offer fancy and seasonal flavors. With more than 40 different options, there is sure to be a doughnut for everyone.
Insider tip: If you ask us, the Edmonds shop is tops. It’s steps from the ferry terminal at Edmonds, and the beach is right across the train tracks. This location also has a cozy library upstairs; the kids section is located to the far right. Grab a chair and a book, and snuggle up in the reading nook. If you’re looking for a family day trip, starting out at Top Pot is the perfect way to start a day.
Locations in Seattle, Bellevue, Kirkland, Edmonds, Issaquah, Redmond, Renton, Mill Creek & Tacoma.
The Flour Box is a woman-owned and family-run small bakery cafe in Hillman City. They serve hand-crafted, filled brioche doughnuts from scratch. Everything is made in the bakery in small batches with one special ingredient—love. Pamela Vuong said she picked up baking in college and quickly felt like she had found her calling. Since then, her passion for creating scrumptiously delectable doughnuts has taken off. Her flavors change often, so be sure to check in for what’s new on the menu. Flavors like lemon lime curd, crème brulee or everything bagel donut are as good as they sound.
Insider tip: These doughnuts go fast, so head out early. They generally sell out within a couple hours of opening their doors. They are that good!
Hours: Thu.-Sun., 10 a.m.-1 p.m. (or until sold out)
Soft, chewy, airy and shareable—that’s what you’ll get at Dochi. Their unique bubble ring-shaped donuts are a delightful cross between a Japanese rice cake (mochi) and an American-style fried donut. The flavors are as distinctive as their appearance, from red velvet cake to matcha pistachio and cosmic crunch. Although these doughnuts are designed to share, they are so good you might want them all to yourself. Like the box says, you definitely deserve to treat yourself.
Davis Vincent is the mastermind behind Zuri’s Gourmet Donutz, and we love his vision. “If it’s boring, you won’t find it here,” he says. All his flavors—as wild as they are—are 100% organic and natural in color. This black-owned family doughnut shop is truly unique. You can find pretty much any doughnut you could dream up, and that’s how Vincent likes it. His eclectic doughnuts come in flavors you’ve probably never seen before, like “Ubae Me Better” or “Just Like Butter.” He also has lots of gluten-free options and even some 21 and older doughnuts. You truly have to see them to believe them!
Hours: Fri.-Sun., 6 a.m.-2 p.m.
7600 196th St. S.W., #850 Lynnwood, WA 425-582-8803 Online:zurisgourmet.com
General Porpoise
Kathryn Mueller
General Porpoise offers truly exquisite treats crafted by pastry chef Clare Gordon. They specialize in fried donuts filled with jams, creams, custards and curds (made with fresh eggs). Three locations across Seattle make it easy to satiate your doughnut craving. Shops are conveniently located in Capitol Hill, Laurelhurst and Pioneer Square. All their locations are beautiful and bright, like stepping into a Pinterest page. General Porpoise also has a variety of delicious coffee options to start your day off right. Whether you need an espresso, pour over, drip or draft cold brew, the world is your oyster at General Porpoise.
Just a stone’s throw from the famous fish flingers at Pike Place Market, you’ll find a small donut stall known to locals and tourists alike as a market staple. You can’t miss it. The smell of fresh, hot donuts will lure you in the right direction. Their piping hot mini donuts are a crowd pleaser, especially with flavors like scrumptious maple bacon, sprinkles and powdered sugar. Our suggestion? You will definitely want to opt for at least a dozen.
Hours: Mon.-Sun., 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m.
Pike Place Market 93 Pike St. Seattle, WA 206-467-7769 Online:pikeplacemarket.org
Is there anything better than a hot, made-to-order doughnut? The owner of 9th & Hennepin Donuts knows the right answer to that question. No. There is nothing better, and that’s how he serves them. The flavors of the doughnuts change based on the season and what the chef can find locally. Most of the ingredients are sourced right here in Washington. Flavors change every week, but there are always four kinds of doughnut offerings—a raised/filled brioche, a fruit fritter, a cake donut and a fourth "something else." Doughnuts are takeout-only, and pre-orders are encouraged, but walkups are welcome. You won’t want to miss these truly spectacular doughnuts.
Insider tip:Alki Beach is just a short drive away (about 10 minutes). After grabbing a box of delicious doughnuts, head down to take in the sights. Be sure to pack your beach toys!
Good to know: The doughnut shop is part of a shared kitchen and will be transforming into something super cool this summer. Be sure to follow their Instagram or Facebook page for more details.
You’ll find both classics and fancy doughnuts here. All their doughnuts are made on-site and their motto is as sweet as their treats: Good Donuts. Good Service. Good Vibes. They offer lots of unique flavors and have a welcoming family-friendly atmosphere. And while their doughnuts are infamous, if you have a real sweet tooth, you've got to indulge and add ice cream to your order. An ice cream doughnut sandwich is only $5, and it’s worth it.
University District 4336 Roosevelt Way N.E. Seattle, WA 206-547-1633
Legendary Doughnuts has seven locations around the greater Seattle area, from Tacoma to Federal Way. Their handmade doughnuts are delicious and made in-house every day. When it comes to intriguing flavors—you name it, they have it. Whether you want gummy bears on top of your doughnut, cereal or bacon, you can find just about whatever you can dream up. Flavors sound more like desserts here, and that’s probably because these sweets are just that. The size of some of their doughnuts are also unmatched. They seriously have one that's the size of your face. When you visit, don’t forget to bring your furry friends with you. They have doughnuts for them, too.
Good to know: You don't have to leave the comfort of your home to enjoy Legendary donuts. Get them delivered fresh to your door with Doordash.
Mighty-O Donuts has reimagined the doughnut game. Healthy donuts? That’s the promise of Mighty-O Donuts, and they’re as good as their word. All Mighty-O's are organic, 100% vegan and made from scratch. You can enjoy their doughnuts from four locations around the Seattle area. It's hard to miss with a French Toast donut, a spiced cake with maple glaze. And kids will flip for the Mini O’s, a bite-sized remix of their larger doughnuts that are perfect for smaller appetites and little bellies.
Locations in Green Lake, Ballard, Capitol Hill & Denny Triangle. The Downtown location is currently closed.
A quaint village nestled among rolling hills and vineyards. Miles of bike and hike trails along a gorgeous river. Nope, you’re not in the South of France: you’re in Washington, Missouri, and it just might be the hidden gem vacation your family is longing for. Read on to find out why we love this little spot in the heart of Missouri for an unexpected, sophisticated family vacation that won’t break the bank.
1. Katy Trail
The Katy Trail is a hike and bike trail created from 240-miles of the former path of the Missouri-Kansas-Texas Railroad. It's known for being the country's longest rail-trail and includes 26 hiking trailheads and four fully restored railroad depots along the way. Bonus tip: Make your way to the section of trail located between Cooper County and St. Charles County, which has been designated as an official segment of the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail!
2. Historic Downtown
Washington is home to a lively Historic District with seasonal street festivals, including BBQ and Bluesfest, Art Fair and Winefest and Fall Festival of the Arts and Crafts. For an exciting excursion, play a game of Where's Waldo throughout the neighborhood. Simply obtain a "passport" at participating stores then discover hidden gems along the way in your scavenger hunt adventure. Make a stop at the Iron Spike Model Train Museum and the Washington Firehouse Museum—two favorites for kids.
3. Locally Owned Eats & Treats
From pizza and froyo to more sophisticated eateries, you’ll find an array of family-friendly, owner-operated establishments to suit any craving. Want to treat your little ones to a super-sized milkshake? Head to Main Street Creamery for intricate concoctions that are topped with donuts, cookies, cupcakes, brownies and even cotton candy.
4. Local Wineries
Did you know that Central-Eastern Missouri is home to more than forty wineries, all within an hour’s drive of Washington? Move over, Napa! These wineries are never as crowded and feature world-class wines and cuisine. All that's left to do is map out your vino trail!
5. Right on the Amtrak
Washington is conveniently located along the Amtrak Missouri River Runner line, a 283-mile route that runs between St. Louis and Kansas City and makes stops in Kirkwood, Jefferson City and more. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, you can bring your bikes on the train for a car-free adventure your family will never forget.
6. Unique Family-Friendly Lodging
Sure, you may have explored Washington and absorbed its rich history while on foot, but what about spending a night (or two) in one of its historic homes? There are many historical residences and charming B&Bs you can stay in right downtown. Many of them let you rent out an entire floor or the full home so your family has plenty of space to sprawl.
7. Parks and Trails for Outdoor Fun
Washington has plenty of parks to explore on bike, including the Riverfront Park, which features an asphalt trail ideal for young riders (and rollerbladers!). You can also explore Lion’s Lake, where you’ll find an All-Abilities Playground and a lovely walking trail around the lake. Our favorite is Busch Creek Disc Golf Course at Burger Park, which features an 18-hole disc golf course that the whole family can try.
If you want a place to visit that is off the beaten path with plenty of fresh air and history, visit Washington, Missouri and book your vacation today!
Atlanta lacks little when it comes to entertaining the family, but if it’s the frosty fun you’re craving you might feel left out in the cold. The good news is that snowy spots are only a short drive from the heart of Hotlanta. Read on to find out where to plan your family’s next brr-illiant afternoon of fun.
Snow Island at Margaritaville at Lanier Islands
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Take the crew for snow tubing, but stay for the ice rink, carnival rides, snow play area, and wintry treats at Snow Island. Parrot Mountain is one of North America's longest snow rides, as a 575-foot-long, eight-story snow slide. Snowball Alley is perfect for the little ones, who really just want to build a snowman (thanks, Elsa).
7000 Lake Lanier Islands Parkway Buford, Ga 770-800-3917 Online: lanierislands.com
Scaly Mountain
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For snow tubing and ice skating, head to Scaly Mountain just across the Georgia border in between Dillard and Highlands, North Carolina. It’s only a two hour drive, so you can easily do it as a day trip. However, if you want to make a weekend of it, there are plenty of family-friendly accommodations nearby. Scaly offers three snow lines for individual tubers (must be 4 years old and 42”tall) and a kiddie slope for kids under four. You can also try out some ice skating in their outdoor rink and trout fishing in stocked ponds (if they aren't frozen over).
Located about 2 ½ hours from Atlanta, Sapphire Valley offers the closest ski lodge experience. Its ski courses consist of a 1600 foot main run with a vertical drop of 200 feet and a beginner slope with modest vertical drop of 50 feet and a moving carpet lift - and did somebody say "ski school?" Yep. They did, and Sapphire Valley has it.
127 Cherokee Trail Sapphire Valley, Nc 828-743-7663 Online: sapphirevalley.com
Ober Gatlinburg
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Snow Cubbies is the perfect place for small children to play in the snow and discover winter excitement, but it's open weekends and Holidays only—so be sure to check before you trek. You can also bump, spin, and zoom around the Ice Rink in Ice Bumper Cars (or ice skate, of course), and for the more adventurous, there's skiing, snowboarding, and a terrain park.
1001 Parkway Suite 2 Gatlinburg, TN 865-436-5423 Online: obergatlinburg.com
The day is finally here! Halloween is behind us and the holiday season has officially arrived—made official by the fact that Starbucks just announced the return of its iconic holiday drink lineup. Who wants to hit the drive-thru ASAP?!
This year is extra festive, since Starbucks is celebrating 25 years of its iconic holiday cups. To celebrate, the coffee chain is bringing back some of its most beloved designs, which are sure to look familiar to coffee fans all over the world.
And starting today, you can officially grab your favorite festive drinks at any U.S. Starbucks location. This year’s offerings include familiar favorites like the Peppermint Mocha, Caramel Brulée Latte, and Chestnut Praline Latte. There’s also a cold brew option for those of us who think iced coffee should be a year-round staple. And always inclusive, Starbucks brought back their first non-dairy holiday latte that debuted last holiday season.
Tis the season to be properly caffeinated. Here’s what’s on offer at Starbucks, starting today.
Peppermint Mocha
One of the most-loved drinks on Starbucks' holiday menu, the Peppermint Mocha is turning 20 years old this year!
Caramel Brulée Latte
Caramel Brulée sauce and topping combine with steamed milk and whipped cream to make this decadent drink.
Chestnut Praline Latte
A beloved holiday favorite, this drink features flavors of caramelized chestnuts and crumbled pralines.
Toasted White Chocolate Mocha
Topped with holiday sugar sprinkles and white pearls, this toasty, chocolatey drink might be the prettiest one on the Starbucks holiday menu.
Iced Sugar Cookie Almondmilk Latte
For those who don't drink dairy, Starbucks brought back the Iced Sugar Cookie Almondmilk Latte, the first-ever non-dairy holiday drink that debuted last year.
Irish Cream Cold Brew
For anyone who thinks cold brew is a year-round drink, Starbucks has a holiday menu entry just for you: the festive Irish Cream Cold Brew.
Alongside all the holiday drinks, Starbucks also brought back festive snacks and treats.
Chocolate Pistachio Swirl
New this year is the Chocolate Pistachio Swirl, which features a creamy filling swirled into buttery brioche dough.
You can also still snack on all your classic holiday favorites, like Snowman Cookies, Reindeer Cake Pops, Sugar Plum Cheese Danishes, and Cranberry Bliss Bars.
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