Instead of your go-to Mother’s Day flowers, give mom something that’ll last longer than a few days. And no, we’re not talking mugs or pictures (though moms love those, too). Plant and flower subscriptions are a great way to keep mom feeling special all year. Flowers and plants will give the house some life, and there are options out there for everyone from a beginning gardener to a plant lady pro.

To help you decide which one is perfect for your mother figure, check out our curated list of plants and blooms that are ready for delivery. There are options with different degrees of care, so even if the mom in your life doesn’t have the quintessential green thumb, she can still easily keep them looking their best. And bonus! Many of these Mother’s Day flowers and plants come with pretty pots and planters, so she won’t even need to repot them later. Take a look at all these stunning colors, too. See them all below. 

The Bouqs Co. Subscription

hand holding light pink tea rose bouquet
The Bouqs

The Bouqs Co. is a go-to for us, thanks to their stunning blooms that stay fresher longer because they're shipped directly from eco-friendly farms. With The Bouqs Co. subscription, mom gets a bouquet of gorgeous flowers every month, and you can customize your plan to bet fit her (and you never pay for shipping on subscriptions, saving you $25 off the bat!).

The Bouqs Co. Subscription (Starting at $44.00/mo + Free Shipping)—Buy Here!

Lively Root Plant Subscription

assortment of plants against a bright green background
Lively Root

You can't go wrong with a plant subscription from Lively Root. Mom doesn't even have to have an especially green thumb to love this one either. Select from different subscription options like the Easy Care Plant Subscription, Pet-Friendly Plant Subscription, and more. Every 3 months, a new plant arrives with care instructions, so she can enjoy their new greens easily.

Lively Root Plant Subscription ($129.00+)—Buy Here!

Plant In The Box Indoor Houseplant Subscription

assortment of house plants against a light pink background
Plant In The Box

Each box from Plant In The Box includes a small to medium-sized plant, virtual care card, and free shipping with their 'Arrive Safe Guarantee.' Choose from 3 subscription options: the Bloomer Box with easy to care for houseplants, the Fur-Friendly Box for households with curious pets, and the Majestic Marvels Box for those who like rare finds! 

Plant In The Box Indoor Houseplant Subscription (Starting at $25.00/mo)—Buy Here!

Rooted Baby Mystery Jungle Box

a box of assorted tiny plants
Rooted

Good things come in small packages? With the Baby Mystery Jungle Box from Rooted, that's absolutely true. These adorable little baby plants are extra-small, so they're great for the office, window ledge, or other small spaces!

Rooted Baby Mystery Jungle Box ($30.00)—Buy Here!

Gardenuity The Herb Garden Subscription

Gardenuity

The Herb Garden Subscription from Gardenuity comes with a hand stitched grow bag, custom blended soil, and nutrients, plus three seasons of  fully-rooted plants. Mom gets 3 seasonal deliveries, creating a year of herb harvesting! And not to worry; Gardenuity analyzes your location and customizes an assortment of herbs specific to your climate.

Gardenuity The Herb Garden Subscription ($162.00)—Buy Here!

The Sill Plant Subscription

The Sill

The Sill's plants are sourced from local growers to ensure their quality and to support family-owned businesses (we sure do love that!). They also guarantee your plants arrive in happy, healthy condition, or they replace them for free. Your subscription includes a curated plant, a chic ceramic planter, and instructions. Pick from a 3 or 6 month subscription gift, and from 3 different box options: Easy-Care, Orchids, or Pet Friendly.

The Sill Plant Subscription ($55.00+/mo.)—Buy Here!

Farmgirl Flowers Flower Subscription

hand holding yellow roses
Farmgirl Flowers

Farmgirl Flowers offers a flower subscription service for their signature gorgeous burlap-wrapped flower bouquets and David Austin roses arrangements. Choose from weekly, biweekly, or monthly. When you “Make It A Recurring Delivery", you can select your delivery start and date and how often you’d like your flower subscription to deliver! 

Farmgirl Flowers Flower Subscription (Starting at $59.00)—Buy Here!

Horti Plant Subscription Box

set of assorted houseplants in tan planters
Horti

The Horti Plant Subscription Box is created to take you through different layers of plant care! Not only do recipients get beautiful plants monthly, but you actually learn how to take care of them, so you'll become a better plant parent. Every level of plant-care experience is covered here!

Horti Plant Subscription Box (Starting at $28.00)—Buy Here!

FLOWERBX Flower Subscription

FLOWERBX

It's hard not to drool over FLOWERBX's offerings. Their subscriptions include options for weekly, bi-weekly, and monthly deliveries of their beautiful flowers—including Snapdragons, Avalanche Roses, Dutch Tulips, Peonies, and so many more—so mom's Instagram will be a whole garden of flower pics (who could blame her?).

FLOWERBX Flower Subscription ($85.00+)—Buy Here!

Bloomsy Flower Subscription

bouquet of assorted flowers in white vase
Bloomsy

Seasonal, sustainably sourced bouquets sent from Bloomsy's eco-friendly farms straight to mom's door. Just choose your size and subscription type—including Tropical, Hydrangea, Roses, and more!—and they take care of the rest. Monthly, weekly, and exclusive plans are all available!

Bloomsy Flower Subscription ($54.99+)—Buy Here!

 

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.

Your summer fun itinerary includes lemonade stands, picnics and backyard BBQs, so why not switch it up with a new lemonade recipe? From blackberry mint lemonade to passionfruit lemonade, there’s a flavor for everyone! These lemonades will be the star of your summer get-togethers.

'African Heat' Spicy Lemonade

This drink might be cold in temperature, but you'll soon feel the heat that ginger and cayenne pepper leave dancing on your tongue. Sweetened with honey, this is a refined sugar-free drink that can be made with still or sparkling water. Find this lemonade recipe at Somebody Feed Seb

 

Blackberry Mint Lemonade 


If you are looking for a refreshing blackberry drink for summer then this Blackberry Lemonade Mojito Mocktail is the way to go! Fresh muddled blackberries and mint are mixed with lemonade and sparkling soda water for a fun twist. 

Passionfruit Lemonade

You'll definitely want to have this beauty on your table this summer. It uses butterfly pea powder to make color changes. 

Peach Lemonade

Gathering Beauty

This recipe from Gathering Beauty is just plain peachy. With just the right amount of sweetness and tang, you’ll be craving this drink year-round. 

Pink Grapefruit Lemonade

lemonade recipe
Jul's Kitchen

Did you know that grapefruits are high in vitamin C, lycopene and potassium? Created by Juls' Kitchen, this drink is not only healthy, but it packs a delicious punch without any sugar to boot. 

Green Melon Lemonade

lemonade recipe
Curious and Catcat

Low on sugar, colorful and delicious, make this drink with any green melon (food blogger Kathie of Curious and Catcat used futuro melon).

Strawberry Lavender Lemonade

Havoc in the Kitchen

Lavender may not come to mind as the first ingredient ideal for lemonade, but trust us, you’ll want to try it out. The food blog, Havoc in the Kitchen created a refreshing lemonade recipe that infuses lavender into the simple syrup.

Pineapple Lemonade

Can’t get away to Hawaii or the Caribbean this summer? No sweat. Just make this tropical drink from the food blog, A Spicy Perspective. And, yes, this recipe will spice up your lemonade!

Green Juice Lemonade

lemonade recipe
Turnip the Oven

According to Lucy of the food blog, Turnip the Oven, this recipe is what happens when your super healthy, holier-than-thou green juice meets everyone's favorite lazy summertime drink. Convinced to try it out?

Ginger Lemonade

Food Network host and mom of two, Daphne Brogdon created this lemonade recipe that showcases fresh ginger. Made in only two steps this drink is a cinch to make. Click here to get the full how-to.

Blueberry Lemonade

lemonade recipe
Pumpkin ‘n Spice

With the farmer’s markets and grocery stores teeming with blueberries, it’s a no-brainer to whip up this lemonade recipe from Pumpkin ‘n Spice.

Color Changing Lemonade

lemonade recipe
Bitz N Giggles

If you're feeling really adventurous, try this lemonade recipe for color-changing lemonade from Bitz N Giggles! Made with butterfly pea flower tea, your kids will get a kick out of the "magic" that happens when the lemonade is added. 

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Maybe you picked some cherries this summer, or any number of berries recently, but have you ever ventured into acres of flowers of all kinds and snipped a few stems right from the field? From wildflowers to sunflowers, zinnias, peonies and more, here are our favorite farms near NYC for flower picking.

For a Wide Variety: Brittany Hollow Farm

Head to Brittany Hollow Farm in the Hudson Valley for one of the best selections of pick-your-own flowers near NYC. Flower varieties include zinnias, cosmos, black-eyed susans, strawflowers, snapdragons, celosia, sunflowers, butterfly weed, statice, and more, and the farm is open July through early October. Flowers are $20 per bucket, and you take the bucket home with you—bring it back for $15 buckets all season long. The fields are open 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. seven days a week.

Brittany Hollow Farm
7141 Albany Post Rd.
Rhinebeck, NY
Online: brittanyhollowfarmflowers.strikingly.com

For "Gazillions" of Flowers, Veggies & A Winery: Terhune Orchards

A major player in the "you pick" scene, Terhune Orchards offers the chance to pick something throughout the growing season.  They offer a great selection of flowers here, available from late June to October. Planters and culinary herbs are also available on site, as are numerous other fruits and veggies—both in the fields for picking and the farm store for purchase. Terhune also operates its own winery. FYI: Leave your pets with a friend—they aren’t allowed on the farm. 

Terhune Orchards
330 Cold Soil Rd.
Princeton, NJ
609-924-2310
Online: terhuneorchards.com

For Gorgeous Blooms for the First Time: Spring Wind Farm

The stunning blooms are grown sustainably, and flowers for picking include sunflowers, zinnias, cosmos, celosia, gomphrena and more. Pick for a mason jar or a three-gallon bucket; prices start at $16. 

95 Holmes Mill Rd. 
Cream Ridge, NJ
Online: springwindfarm.com

For Super Sunflowers & Farm Fun: Johnson's Corner Farm

Johnson's Corner Farm loves its sunflowers. (The farm even holds Sunflower Celebrations.) In addition to lots of barnyard fun and picking produce, you can pick sunflowers for $1 a stem here, and zinnias for 25 cents each. Entrance to the field is $5/person on weekdays, and $6/person on weekends; buy tickets online to guarantee admission. 

133 Church Rd. 
Medford, NJ
Online: johnsonsfarm.com

For Lavender Lovers: Lavender By the Bay

To be fair, you can't pick the lavender at Lavender By the Bay, but it's a must for fans of this soothing herb, and peak bloom for French lavender is happening now, and more to come late summer! Plus: you can load up on sachets and sprigs in the gift shop. This farm has two locations on Long Island, growing more than 80,000 plants in hues of purple, lilac, white and beyond. (FYI: The Calverton spot is across the street from water park Splish Splash.) It's $12 to enter the field and stroll in the fragrant fields. Tickets must be purchased beforehand. 

Open daily, 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

7540 Main Rd.
East Marion, NY

47 Manor Rd.
Calverton, NY 

Online: lavenderbythebay.com

For a Butterfly Moment: Melick's Town Farm

You can pick apples and peaches at Melick’s, but from July through September its stunning gardens are open for picking as well. You'll find flowers such as zinnias, sunflowers and snapdragons here, and no appointment is necessary, but they do ask that you bring your own clippers. (They advise calling ahead to find out what is blooming before you head over.) The farm charges per stem and also has pre-picked bouquets and arrangements if you need to grab a bouquet on the go. Melick's Town Farm is open seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 6.pm., and on a nice day, butterflies flock to the gardens, making for nice Instagram fodder.

Melick’s Town Farm
170 Oldwick Rd.
Oldwick, NJ
Online: melickstownfarm.com

For Flowers, Berries & a Side of Fresh Ice Cream: Patty’s Berries and Bunches

If you’re looking to ditch the scissors, but pick up some berries, this is the place to go. Patty's "bunches" are flowers, which are sold pre-picked and include blossoms such as sunflowers, dahlias, peonies, and zinnias. You can also pay $8 to walk through the flower fields for the perfect photo op!  The farm features an "Ice Cream Patch,” where visitors can buy scoops of seasonal flavors which are made with fresh ingredients grown on-site. This 40-acre Long Island farm is one of our favorites for U-pick berries. Open daily, 9:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.

410 Sound Ave.
Mattituck, NY
Online: pattysberriesandbunches.com

For Evergreen & Sunflower Mazes & Lots of Produce to Pick: Alstede Farms

Alstede is a popular place for picking many, many things. Not only can you pick your own flowers at Alstede Farms, they've also added a cute evergreen maze, which is included with admission. Picking season runs mid-July through September, and flowers go for $1 a stem. The farm is packed with beautiful sunflowers ready for picking, and the farm’s annual sunflower maze is also open for navigation. This farm is also one of our favorites for “U-pick” fruits & veggies as well. Sweet Corn, vegetables (peppers, eggplant, tomatoes), peaches, cantaloupe, nectarines, honeydew and canary melon are all in season during the “cut your own flower” season, so you can pick up some "Jersey Fresh" produce while you're at it. Check this page to see if flowers are open for picking. 

1 Alstede Farms Ln.
Chester, NJ
Online: alstedefarms.com

 

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Winter has arrived, which means it’s hot chocolate season. But don’t waste your time sipping an inferior cup: head to a place that serves some of NYC’s best hot chocolate. (There are many!) From classic with oversized marshmallows, to thick and rich or flavored, NYC has a hot chocolate for every kind of kid (and adult). Get cozy this winter at one of our many favorite hot cocoa spots in NYC!

La Maison du Chocolat

Karen R. via Yelp

La Maison du Chocolat isn’t cheap, but if you’re up for a slight splurge this French chocolatier is one of the best. The hot chocolate is everything you hope a cup would be: silky, rich and perfectly sweet. The luxurious taste may not be one to get every day, but for a special occasion with your little ones this is sure to satisfy your wildest hot chocolate dreams.

30 Rockefeller Plaza
Midtown West
212-265-9404
Online: lamaisonduchocolat.us

Serendipity3

serendipity
Serendipity3

Yes, it's a bit of an oxymoron, but people have been making a pilgrimage to the Upper East Side for Serendipity3's Frrrozen Hot Chocolate for a few decades now. Recently reopened, everything about Serendipity3 is a little extra: the decor (stained-glass lamps, disco balls, puppet of Andy Warhol—a fan—suspended from the ceiling), the menu, giant both literally and figuratively, and the food. Make a reservation before heading over. 

225 E. 60th St. 
Upper East Side
212-838-3531
Online: serendipity3.com

L.A. Burdick Handmade Chocolates

Amanda H. via Yelp

Stellar hot chocolate is just one of the reasons to visit this Soho chocolate shop. It's also famous for its handmade chocolate mice and penguins; see how they make them here. Come back in the summer for a rich and refreshing chocolate frappé.

156 Prince St. 
Soho
212-796-0143
Online: burdickchocolate.com

Max Brenner

Gabriel N. via Yelp

One of our picks for the best theme restaurants in NYC, Max Brenner is dedicated to all things chocolate, including hot chocolate. (They have a full food menu as well.) Pick from dark, milk, or white hot chocolate, or one of the many flavored options, such as Mexican spicy hot chocolate, Oreo, peanut butter, or the "Italian Thick", melted blocks of chocolate with fresh vanilla cream. You can get all of these to go, but sipping there means you get to experience the signature Max Brenner "hug mug", shown here. Reservations are recommended. 

841 Broadway
Union Square
646-467-8803
Online: maxbrenner.us

720 Seventh Ave.
Times Square 

Brooklyn Farmacy & Soda Fountain

Amber W. via Yelp

A longtime favorite spot for locals, tourists and film scouts (this place looks like an old school soda fountain and ice cream parlor) Brooklyn Farmacy serves a classic cup of cocoa several ways. Options include oat milk hot chocolate, hot chocolate topped with whipped cream or house-made toasted marshmallow fluff, or the delectable salty caramel hot chocolate. Love it? You can buy a tin of it to bring home and make it yourself. Brooklyn Farmacy is closed Tuesdays. 

513 Henry St. 
Carroll Gardens 
718-522-6260
Online: brooklynfarmacyandsodafountain.com

MarieBelle

Mariebelle Facebook page

It's not cheap and it’s not basic, but for a fancy outing with a child with discriminating tastes, SoHo shop MarieBelle is worth a trip. Antique furnishings and sparkling chandeliers complement fine chocolates of all kinds and a hot chocolate the store describes as "thick and decadent." Choose from a menu with variations such as Aztec (an "Oprah's Favorite Thing"), spicy, Tahitian Vanilla, white chocolate and even hot chocolate with natural banana pulp. A refined menu of cafe bites such as quiche, soup and crepes offers light eating options.

MarieBelle
484 Broome St.
SoHo
212-925-6999
Online: mariebelle.com

Jacques Torres

Jacques Torres Facebook

Before he became a television star alongside Nicole Byer on Nailed It! Jacques Torres was (and still is) “Mr. Chocolate." Unhappy with the quality of chocolate that was available to him while working as a pastry chef, Jacques Torres constructed his own factory so he could make chocolate exactly the way he wanted from scratch. Try a cup of Classic, made from real chocolate, not powder. Or if you're more daring, go for the Wicked, with its extra kick of allspice, cinnamon and ground chili peppers. Both varieties are so thick they might be mistaken for milkshakes. Tip: They’ll let you try a little sample before you choose your cup. And FYI, JT also sells a Hot Chocolate Gift Set.

Jacques Torres Chocolate
66 Water St.
DUMBO
718-875-1269
Online: mrchocolate.com

285 Amsterdam
Upper West Side 
212-787-3256
Online: mrchocolate.com

Grand Central Terminal
Lexington Passageway
107 East 42nd St.
Midtown
929-427-0988
Online: mrchocolate.com

Bibble & Sip

Bibble & Sip Facebook

The house-made hot chocolate at Bibble & Sip tastes like something just lifted from your grandmother’s stove. Even the marshmallow floating on top is homemade. This family-run business specializes in gourmet coffee, espresso and pastries, made in the French Confectionery tradition and inspired by Asian flavors. Good to know: the word “bibble” means “to eat indulgently”—so order up some sweet treats with your cocoa and coffee.  

Bibble & Sip
253 West 51st St.
Midtown West
646-649-5116
Online: bibbleandsip.com

The Chocolate Room

Pat L. via Yelp

The Chocolate Room is known for all of its outstanding chocolate products, but the Dark Hot Cocoa is our favorite. Made with 61% Belgian chocolate, it is one of the cafe's most popular drinks. Obviously, this is a good choice for chocolate-lovers; pair a cup with the brownie sundae or the chocolate pudding. 

The Chocolate Room
269 Court St.
Cobble Hill
718-246-2600
Online: thechocolateroombrooklyn.com

feature photo: Mehkt via Unsplash

—Danielle Krupa & Ilyssa Smith

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While finally getting to snuggle your baby may be gift enough, many new moms revel in getting a push present too! These gifts don’t just mark the special day but also recognize the hard emotional and physical work involved in birthing a baby. Read on to discover some inspo for great push presents.

Baby Jogger

A Splurge
Is there something the new mom really wanted but didn't get at her baby shower? Now is the time to give her that coveted item. Strollers and diaper bags are great choices you can use right away. A Baby Jogger City Select 2 is a sought-after stroller because of its versatility, including the ability to grow with a family to two and even three children. And the new mom will probably be using her diaper bag for at least a couple of years, so it makes sense to start off with one that she loves and that will last. Check out our guide to stylish and functional diaper bags.

Names for Good

Jewelry 
Personalized jewelry is among the most popular push presents for good reason. Necklaces from Nokona can be personalized with birthstones and initials. Necklaces from Tiny Tags can be personalized with names, birthdates, birthstones and more. Other moms opt for a necklace with their child's birth flower like these from Glazd Jewels or an ode to their child's name, such as an arrow necklace for a baby named Hunter. Or, a bracelet from Names for Good (above) with the baby's name makes a great push present. Even better, get a set including the baby's birthdate and a Mama bracelet! 

Bliss Out
Growing and birthing a baby is hard work! Give mama everything she needs to relax with a Purelis Lavender Spa gift basket and DW Home Lavender Chamomile candle.Then tell the new mom you will take care of the baby so she can enjoy her gift! 

Bearaby

Forbidden Foods
It's no surprise moms are hungry after spending hours working to bring a new life into the world. Add in that mom may have spent the last nine months avoiding her favorite foods, like soft cheeses, sushi and anything with caffeine, and it becomes clear that a feast of her favorites makes a great push present. Send a box of Wisconsin Cheese full of delicacies she couldn't have while pregnant. Luxe tea from Tea Runners is also a good choice, especially if you choose a flavor that will give her a caffeine boost to help her function after late nights with a newborn. If she's still avoiding alcohol, toast to a job well done with Mingle mocktails so the new Mom can celebrate her new baby without thinking about whether it's safe to take a drink.

Make Her Life Easier
A pair of upscale wireless earbuds like these from Sony are a worthy splurge. No wires for baby to pull on, and extreme noise cancellation works to block out distractions whenever the new mom manages to get some alone time. Add on a BioLite Charge back-up battery so that even when mom is too tired to plug in her phone she can keep scrolling. Or, go low-tech and get her a Yeti tumbler that will help keep her well hydrated throughout the day. New moms also spend a lot of time holding their newborn with one hand. A Kindle Paperwhite will allow mom to read during all of those hours she is blissfully trapped under her baby. Adjustable warm light and dark mode mean that she can flip pages without disturbing her little one's nap. If mom prefers to watch TV, a new 4K Alexa-enabled Firestick is a great choice. Mom just needs to ask Alexa to turn on her favorite show or she can use the Alexa built into the included remote. 

Cozy Comfort
After having a new baby, day can become indistinguishable from night. A Bearaby knitted weighted blanket is the perfect gift for new moms to make the most of the time they have to sleep. These blankets are incredibly soft and just heavy enough to provide enough weight to help people get to sleep faster and sleep more deeply. They even come in luxe fabrics like velvet. Or, try a Verve Culture Moroccan blanket that's big enough (and soft enough) for the entire family to snuggle under. Since new moms spend a lot of time at home, a pair of Dooey's house loafers keep her comfy at home without looking frumpy.

KYTEbaby

Mommy & Me Outfits
Let her revel in her new role with matching mommy-and-me clothes. A KYTEbaby lounge dress is comfy enough to sleep in whenever mom is lucky enough to get some Zzz's but cute enough to wear out for a quick errand or walk around the block. Get a matching romper for baby for impromptu, Insta-worthy photoshoots.  

Help Her Glow
Level up her skincare and beauty game by splurging on skincare products made with truffles. Truffoire luxe skincare will make her feel like she has had a trip to the spa, even when she hasn't left the house in days. Or, give her a way to quickly look her best when company arrives with lip tints from Eleve Cosmetics. Tired eyes? Give her the gift of looking not as exhausted as she feels with Holos, a serum made with soothing aloe vera and cucumber. Add an Oura Hydroglove so she can quickly exfoliate and go! 

Get It Together
A new baby comes with a lot of responsibility. Mom now needs to juggle feedings, diaper changes and somehow fit in sleep, showers and meals. A Skylight Calendar helps keep a new mom organized. She will love being able to integrate the family calendar, color-code tasks, access her shopping list and even display photos of her new bundle of joy.  A Fitbit watch tracks both sleep and steps. Best of all, she can read her texts and and answer calls right from her wrist on some Fitbit models, meaning she can continue to stay in touch without putting down her newborn.

—Jamie Davis Smith

featured image: iStock

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This summer, Portland showed us how hot it can get! And while we seem to have made it through the record-breaking temps, our city is certainly staying warm. There’s no better way to stay cool than with a sweet scoop of ice cream. These awesome shops serve up some of the best ice cream, gelato, froyo, and sorbet in the city. You’ll want to try them all before the temps start to drop again.

Sugarpine Drive-In:There's nothing sweeter than getting your soft serve cone from a retro drive-through after a day on the Sandy River. Located in Troutdale, Sugarpine serves up great lunches, but it's the cones that'll make you beg for more. Go for the Larch Mountain, a chocolate and vanilla swirl topped with crumbled brown butter blondies, blueberry lavender sauce, and homemade pine nut honeycomb crunch. Also, they serve froze (frozen rose) popsicles. 

1208 East Historical Columbia River Hwy.
Troutdale, OR 

Online: sugarpinedrivein.com

Fifty Licks: Fifty Licks started as a food cart then swiftly moved into the spotlight at their two locations (both currently open for takeout). Quality ingredients mixed into a custard base means flavors like Hood Strawberry or Toasted Milk shine through. The vegan options are coconut-based and will not disappoint anyone, like the turmeric-yellow Golden Milk or the Mango Sticky Rice.

Multiple locations
Online: fifty-licks.com

Salt and Straw: Portland’s ice cream craze basically kicked off with this shop and their curious flavors--you can find their shops flung far in LA, San Francisco, Miami, Seattle, and even Disneyland (yep). Closer to home, it’s still massively popular. The one good thing about 2020 is that you can now skip those heinous lines by ordering online ahead of time for pickup (or delivery!). They keep a list of favorites like strawberry and balsamic, olive oil, and sea salt and caramel, but their monthly rotating flavors are surprisingly unique, but crazy good— like goat cheese marionberry habanero. 

Multiple locations
Online: saltandstraw.com

Pinolo Gelato: Founded by a native Italian, Pinolo Gelato lets ice cream’s European cousin shine. Gelato is mostly made without eggs--because it has less fat and is also served slightly warmer than ice cream, it’s argued to be more flavorful. Take a Roman holiday with classic flavors like chocolate, stracciatella or pistachio, or enjoy the seasonal rotation like almond fig. They also serve Cafe Umbria espresso. 

3707 SE Division
Online: pinologelato.com

Ruby Jewel: Delicious ice cream, sandwiched between two thick cookies. It’s the dessert for when you can’t decide if you want ice cream or baked goods, and nobody in Portland does it like Ruby Jewel. Try the Double Chocolate and Peanut Butter, or the Lemon and Honey Lavender, or test out a new flavor! The four store locations are town are open for business this summer, and perfect for your warm-weather breaks. 

Multiple locations
Online: rubyjewel.com

Cloud City Ice Cream: This gem in the Woodstock neighborhood of Southeast Portland has been impressing kids of all ages since 2011, using natural and local ingredients to serve up a prolific menu of dairy and non-dairy scoops, sundaes, and shakes. They’ve simplified their menu to the classics (like Golddigger with chocolate ice cream and peanut butter ripple, or the honey lavender), and are offering scoops and pints to go. As it says on their door, everything is made with equal parts love and magic.

4525 SE Woodstock Blvd.
Portland
Online:
cloudcityicecream.com

Eb and Bean: The froyo from Eb and Bean has taken the city by storm the last few years. The swirling cones of goodness come in fantastic flavors (dairy or non-dairy, without artificial sweeteners, flavors, preservatives, or corn syrup). It’s then topped with seasonal, all-natural goodies, many from local Oregon companies. They have three locations around town, making it the perfect spot for families wherever they may live. 

Multiple locations
Online: ebandbean.com

 

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There’s nothing quite like a day at a U-pick farm that gets the kids excited about fruit. These farms near Dallas offer apple picking in the fall, berries and peaches in the summer, and even sunflower and lavender picking. Pack up a picnic basket full of your favorite snacks and get the kids ready for a day of fruit picking!

Apple Valley Orchard—Llano

Jennifer Young

This 32-acre farm grows apples, berries and more out in Llano, TX. Check their Facebook page for u-pick updates. 

12340 S. Highway 16
Llano, TX
Online: facebook.com

Majestic Farms

Head to this farm in early summer for pear and plum picking. Did you know that pears are one of the only fruits that need to ripen after they've been picked? We didn't either! Check the farm's website before you head over as they'll indicate which fruits are ready for picking and whether they are closing early due to high temps.

You can also find them at the Hillsboro Farmer's Market. 

433 Hill County Road 1306
Whitney, TX
Online: majesticfarms.net

Blase Family Farm—Rockwall

Emily Williams

Blueberry and pumpkin picking happen at this too-cute farm in Rockwall. Blueberry season runs in early summer and October brings pumpkin season. This year you can find everyone's favorite square pumpkin, Spookley, at Blase Family Farm.

1232 E Fork Drive
Rockwall, TX
Online: blasefamilyfarm.com

Price Farms—Whitney

If strawberries and pumpkins aren't the best combination, we don't know what is! Head to Price Farms in spring to pick your fill of strawberries, and then come back in the fall for pumpkin season.

142 Hill County Road 2401 North
Whitney, TX
Online: facebook.com/pricefarmsocial/

Lavender Ridge Farms—Gainesville

This picturesque spot was originally a melon and strawberry farm, but has been selling lavender, cut flowers and herbs since 2006. Head out and visit the two acres where you'll find a cafe serving lavender treats as well as a shop with soaps and other lavender-scented items. Check their Facebook page for current hours before you head over. 

2391 County Road 178
Gainesville, TX
Online: lavenderridgefarms.com

Jenkins Farm—Ravenna

This peach orchard is 10 miles North of Bonham, TX on Hwy 78, about 90 minutes from Dallas. The peach-picking season runs from May-July and the best spot to find information on their picking status is on their Facebook page. In addition to peaches, they also grow blackberries and plums.

269 CR 1600
Ravenna, TX
Online: facebook.com

Wild Berry Farm—Sadler

Blackberries and blueberries are the name of the game at this North Texas farm. They also have fields of sunflowers blooming in July. If you want to cut flowers, bring a jar or large container and scissors. Their outdoor farm market sells jams, jellies, veggies seeds, and more. 

905 Crawford Rd.
Sadler, TX
Online: realtexasfood.com/wild-berry-farm

Texas Tulip Farm - Pilot Point

Gabby Cullen

Closed for the 2023 season, the Texas Tulip Farm is a spring destination for DFW residents. Over six acres of brightly colored tulips, a hay maze and the opportunity to pick your own beautiful bouquet are all part of the fun when you visit.

10656 FM 2931
Pilot Point, TX 76258

Ham Orchards - Terrell

One of the most popular farm destinations in DFW, you can pick your own raspberries at Ham's at the beginning of the summer while also being able to buy some of their famous peaches all the way until mid-August. There's plenty of other fun to be had: a browse through the general store, a BBQ lunch and enjoying some soft-serve peach ice cream are a must!

11939 County Rd. 309
Terrell, TX 75161
Online: hamorchard.com

 

Filling your house with flowers doesn’t have to mean hitting the local grocery store or stealing perfect petals from the neighbor’s garden. You and your young gardeners can spend the summer days tiptoeing through dahlias, sunflowers and lavender, and picking gorgeous bouquets to decorate your home. Local U-pick flower farms offer families a dreamy way to spend time together. Read on to find out more.

Sunblossom Farm

You don't have to leave the city to enjoy a U-Pick experience. Located in the NE Cully Neighborhood of Portland, Sunblossom Farm is a sustainable, urban, bee friendly micro farm. Their flower gardens are cared for without the use of pesticides or chemical fertilizers and are grown in an urban setting designed to help support and provide a sanctuary for today’s struggling bee population. This unique farm is dedicated to providing local, seasonal, and sustainably raised flowers. Your young florists will find sunflowers, roses and more at this awesome spot. Drop-in cost is $20/per bucket. They provide everything you need to pick flowers, but ask that you bring your own container to take flowers home in.

Open Wed 6 p.m.-sunset, Sat 9 a.m.-1p.m.
NE 50th ave, between Ainsworth and Holman
503-498-8638
Online: sunblossomfarm.com

Helvetia Lavender Farm

This Hillsboro favorite for Christmas trees goes purple in the summer with two varieties of lavender: English and Lavandin. Drop into the tea pavilion for a lunch of homemade quiche, salad and scones or just the tea and scones for $10. Check out the lavender festival on the first and second weekend in July where you can watch lavender wreath demonstrations, visits a kids' station and shop all things lavender! If you just want to pick some lavender to scent things at home, for $8 a bundle, the owners will give you a pair of scissors and a bucket and you spend your day wandering rows of flowers and picking some to take home. Note: U-Pick only takes place on weekends throughout July.

12814 NW Bishop Rd.
Hillsboro
503-647-5858
Online: helvetialavenderfarm.com

Justy's Produce and Flowers

Dahlia fans, rejoice! Justy's has your favorites, ready to be picked. Since you're heading there, their produce market has it all from A to Z. From apples to zucchini and artichokes to zinnias, they aim to offer everything you need so your flower-picking and produce-shopping is done in one all-organic trip.

Looking for variety? This flower farm also carries a variety of flowers you can purchase and take some home. There are wildcats, show and tells and more. Filling your house with color is easy after a trip to this farm.

7924 SE Lake Rd.
Milwaukie
503-659-4169
Online: justysproduce.com

Mountainside Lavender 
Mountainside Lavender is a small family-run farm nestled in the hillside of Chehalem Mountain in the community of Scholls, Oregon. They offer over 2000 lavender plants representing more than 20 varieties of both French and English lavenders in several colors (white, pink and shades of purple). This gorgeous flower farm grows both Lavandins (a cross between Lavandula angusifolia and Lavandula latifolia) and  French Lavender which is characterized by longer stems and high oil yields. In addition to U-pick, visitors can also purchase farm-made lavender products such as massage oil, sachets, neck and eye pillows, dried flowers, lip balm, and more all derived from the farm's plants.

Mountainside Lavender is now open for U-pick. Your family can pick your own bouquet for $6/bundle (approximately what you can fit your hand around, fingertip to fingertip), or 5 bouquets for $24. All u-pick supplies will be provided for you, but you’re welcome to bring your own clippers and basket! They are open daily through the end of July from 9 a.m.- 5 p.m.

17805 SW Hillsboro Hwy
Hillsboro
503-6443465
Online: mountainsidelavender.com

The Pumpkin Patch
This Sauvie Island pumpkin patch has so much more to offer before the fall. They provide your flower-cutting supplies and their flowers are priced at $5-10 per bouquet or $12 per bucket. Give them a call in August to find out what's blooming and save some time to shop the produce market and gift shop for... well, everything else you could possibly need.

16511 NW Gillihan Rd.
Sauvie Island
503-621-3874
Online: thepumpkinpatch.com

Save money with DIY decorations that make your babe’s first birthday party look spectacular. Yes, they’re quick to make. And no, you don’t need to be super crafty. Read on for ideas on how to perk up your party with cupcake garlands, light-up signs, baby pics and more.

Click here to save to your fave DIY boards on Pinterest.

Fly, Baby, Fly

The Brimblecom Blog

Remember how to fold paper airplanes? This simple craft becomes whimsical decor for a birthday party. Allie of The Brimblecom Blog swept us off our feet with her fleet of paper airplanes on the wall.

Topsy Turvy Garland

Rachel Hollis

Cupcake holders make an amazing garland. First, collect leftovers from your cupboards and friends. Then make Rachel Hollis's vibrant garland—it takes a little patience and time to string everything together, but the results are kooky-fabulous in the most Alice-in-Wonderland of ways.

A Bouncy Entrance to Fun

Saar Manche

Who needs helium? String balloons upside down with colored streamers of your choice just above those little outstretched hands to really get tots jumping. High-fives to Saar Manche for remastering these two common props with originality.

Tassels in the Air

Callie Manion Photography

If your high chair, table or countertop needs a little pizzaz, Callie Manion has solved your problem. Elevate that furniture to festive status with a shiny line of tassels embellishments. 

Feed Them Fun Facts

Lavender's Blue Designs

Fun facts on your food table signs take them to the next level. Lavender's Blue Designs shows us how. Whether you choose interesting info from around the world about babies and birthday parties or funny memories about your special babe, it's a great way to keep your guests engaged and give them something to talk about. 

Show 'Em Your Mug

Ice Cream Off Paper Plates

When it's your child's birthday, everybody is there to see them, so there is no better theme than their own cute face. Ice Cream Off Paper Plates featured Owen's expressive face everywhere, from mantel garlands to cake toppers. 

Always Your #1

Jaclyn Munro

Finally, a way to show off all those photos you took of your beloved babe. Add visual joy by using your fave photos (or all of them!) to build a gigantic number uno. 

Fold Up Fun

Natalie Spencer

Ellia had a radiant birthday filled with neon colors and cool geometric shapes. The wall of triangle origami by Darling & Daisy really caught our eye. Turn any empty wall into a psychedelic cavern by folding square sheets of paper diagonally in half. Then fold the edges about 1 centimeter in, allowing you to stick it on the wall and let it pop! Check out more of this 3D display at 100 Layer Cake.

Showstopping Lights

You Are My Fave

All you need is one showstopper to wow the crowd, and everything else will fall into place. The mom-crafter from You Are My Fave lit up the room with a glowing marquee sign that elevated even the most simple decorations without going over the top. The tutorial from Oh Happy Day requires a bit of work and wiring, so opt for making the number 1 or the just first letter of your child's name.

Reach for the Sky Decor

Love & Lion

No helium for floating decorations? No problem! Hang your baubles from your chandelier or fan for ceiling-to-floor flair. Leah of Love & Lion spraypainted these plastic animals with bright colors and hung them from her lights for a colorful, creative effect.

Center of Attention

Allyson Wiley

Your superstar deserves all the attention he or she can get on the big day. Show off candid photos as centerpieces at your guests’ tables. A Little Savvy Event propped up their photos with a colorful clothespin for this birthday social. 

Streaming Pink Throne

Jackie Wonders

The seat of honor is a very important spot indeed. Crafting mama Courtney of Joyful Joyful Designs gave her one-year-old the spotlight with this stunningly decorated high chair. Fun fact: This was actually Mom’s childhood high chair (refurbished) before Hudson sat in it!

—Christal Yuen

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Between baby’s first giggles, the first time they roll over and hearing the start of their first words, your little one’s first year is filled with tons of memory-making moments. It’s also an exciting time for Mom, including her first Mother’s Day! To celebrate a few mom’s first Mother’s Day this year, we sent new mamas a few of our favorite gifts to make their day extra special. Here’s what we included:

ChiccoDuo™

Another big part of baby's first year: Feedings. So many feedings. The ChiccoDuo™ is a hybrid bottle that offers the wellness benefits of glass and the convenience of plastic—making Mom's life much easier. The ChiccoDuo™ has an Invinci-Glass inner layer, which means baby's milk only comes in contact with glass. On top of the micro-thin layers of glass is a crystal-clear, premium plastic exterior that keeps the bottle safe from breaking. Paired with the Intui-Latch™ Nipple (a game-changing anti-colic nipple with a textured skin-like feel that positions baby’s tongue and lips for a natural, intuitive latch), ChiccoDuo™ makes feedings a way better time for Mom and baby!

Milk Bar Cookies

These so-yummy Milk Bar cookies have something for everyone. Whether you're the ultimate sweets lover (hello, Chocolate Confetti Cookie) or into something a bit more savory (don't knock a Corn Cookie until you've tried it) or just indecisive (a Compost Cookie covers all the bases), the assorted cookie tin is sure to hit the spot. 

Pickwick & Co. Chamomile & Lavender Candle

We all know that a little "me time" is what moms really want for Mother's Day. For when first-time mamas are looking to relax, this soothing Pickwick & Co. Chamomile & Lavender Candle rises to the occasion. At-home spa day, anyone? 

Par Avion Unicorn Tears Tea

When Mom finally gets a chance to kick back and put her feet up, this fun tea from Par Avion is the perfect soothing sipper. The green tea with rosehip, blue pea flowers, blue cornflower petals and hawthorn fruit not only tastes delicious, but it also changes colors!

Tinybeans Family Premium

We know new moms want to capture all of their baby's special moments, which is why we gifted each mom a year of Tinybeans Family Premium, from the Tinybeans app that lets parents share as many photos as they'd like with the family and friends they choose.