Last-chance activities and special events. Here’s what to do with the kids on Christmas Day

With Christmas around the corner, the tree is up and holiday music is being cued up. A sure sign the season is in full swing. Atlanta is full of holiday cheer throughout all of December and into the New Year. From dazzling light shows to ice skating to Santa meet-cutes, there is something for everyone to enjoy during the winter season. But if you’re coming up short for things to do in Atlanta on Christmas Day, check out these festivities that will take you beyond the base of the Christmas tree.

A girl and parents watch a movie on Christmas Day
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1. Catch Favorite Holiday Flick on Big Screen

What better way to enjoy the holiday season than to watch your favorite classic holiday movie? There will be showings on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day at Regal Cinemas all over the Atlanta metro area. The tickets are just $5 and if you are a Regal Crown Member so are a small popcorn and drink combo. 

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2. See Mega-Watt Light Shows

Bundle up and flip the switch on some electrifying lighting displays around Atlanta. If you’re looking for an evening outing that will amaze the entire family, Christmas Day is a great time to head out in search of both neighborhood light displays and larger commercial ones too. Many neighborhood displays put on extra-specials show on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and then again on New Year's. And when it comes to drive-through displays and other local programs that are totally lit, many are open on Christmas Day, like Garden Lights, Holiday Nights at Atlanta Botanical Garden, Reindeer Road World of Illumination at Six Flags, and ATL Holiday lights.

Related: Shine Bright! Your Ultimate Guide to Christmas Lights in Atlanta

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3. Take a Spin on Atlanta SkyView

Santa may not be gracing the night sky on Christmas, but you can soar above Atlanta in the SkyView ferris wheel. With twinkling city lights below mixed in with holiday decorations downtown, the bird's eye view is the best view. And great news! Each gondola on the wheel is climate controlled, so you won't need to plan for frostbite. 

168 Luckie St. N.W.
Atlanta
Online: skyviewatlanta.com

4. Go for a Bike Ride

Even if they didn't get a new set of wheels for Christmas, you'll have some happy elves if you load them up and go for a ride on their old wheels, new scooters, or even hovercraft. If you need a new bike trail to try, check out of our list family-friendly bike paths riders of all ages can handle.

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5. Mix It Up at Main Event Entertainment

If you’re tired of the tinsel and ready to hock the holly, head to Main Event for laser tag, bowling, arcade games, and an indoor ropes gym. Open from 11 a.m. to 12 a.m. and prices for playing vary by selection.

3101 Cobb Pkwy. S.E., Suite 104
Atlanta
Online: mainevent.com

6. Take the Kids out for a Hike

Atlanta weather can run hot or cold at Christmas, so keep Georgia’s State Parks in mind if we land on a sunny and unseasonably warm Christmas day. Trails abound at Sweetwater Creek State Park, and you can start working on your resolutions by hiking the first (little, little) leg of the Appalachian Trail at Amicalola State Park. Need some more inspiration? Here are some more of our favorite state parks near Atlanta. And if you don’t want to venture much further than the Perimeter, you can enjoy exploring miles of trails along the Chattahoochee, a National Parks Service-run land. 

Related: National Parks That Atlanta Families Love (& Amazing Cabins Nearby)

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7. Visit the Georgia Aquarium

Yes, the Georgia Aquarium is actually open on Christmas Day. Get the kiddos out of the house and make a splash with the world's largest aquarium. Purchase tickets online in advance.

225 Baker St. N.W.
Atlanta
Online: georgiaaquarium.org

Related: Dive In! An Insider's Guide to the Georgia Aquarium

ice skating
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8. Go Ice Skating or Sledding

Glide beneath the stars and skyscrapers at one of Atlanta's most festive ice rinks—many of which are open on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.  If you have a different Christmas adventure in mind, grab your snow tube instead.

9. Get a Strike at Bowlmor Lanes

Roll into Bowlmor Lanes on Christmas Day and try your hand in the arcades, classic table games, and interactive laser tag battles also available. Open from 1 p.m. to midnight on Christmas Day, games are reasonably priced per person and kids under 4 play free.

2175 Savoy Dr.
Chamblee, GA
Online: bowlmor.com

Play games, revel in your favorite comic book characters, pet cats, or go back in time at these local theme restaurants

Portland is famous for its food scene, and the amazing eats aren’t limited to the bars and elegant restaurants. There are tons of family-friendly eateries the offer mind blowing bites to indulge in. Add these standout themed restaurants to your list of dine-out family night options. Along with a delicious meal, you and your crew can play games, pet cats, or go back in time. Read on for all the details.

Brad R. via yelp

Cadillac Cafe

Pull on your bobby socks and get out the poodle skirt! This 1950s diner serves breakfast and lunch alongside cozy vintage vibes, with a pink 1962 Cadillac on display and plenty of retro neon signs. Breakfast is served all day, with more predictable plates alongside standouts like Bunkhouse Vittles and hazelnut-crusted French toast. Ask for a kids’ menu and sit within view of the beautiful art deco fireplace.

1801 N.E. Broadway St.
Portland
Online: cadillaccafepdx.com

The Lighthouse

This Lighthouse has been a restaurant since 1950, but the property’s history is extensive. Since being built in 1886, it’s been the First U.S. National Bank, a barber shop, and a post office. Now, its an awesome eatery for pirates and land dwelling mermaids. Expect all-American comfort food options when you pick up the menu. You'll find cheeseburgers with hand-cut twice-fried French fries, fried chicken with gravy, steaks, and tacos. There are plenty of options for sea faring folks of all ages. In addition to delectable dishes, there are plenty of drinks for mom and dad to enjoy. In addition to offering your usual roster of drinks, the Lighthouse offers wine by the glass, nine draft beers, and two dozen bottles and cans of old-school classics.

10808 N.W. St. Helens Rd.
Portland
Online: lighthousepdx.com

Related: Vegetarian Restaurants Portland Kids & Families Will Love

PDX Game Knight via yelp

PDX Game Knight

The first Oregon board game pub, PDX Game Knight serves American fare alongside local beers and a huge selection of board games. Settle in with a craft beer for you and a delectable grilled cheese for the kids, then get out the dice! For a $5 cover (kids under 12 are free), you can access their library of over 700 games, with plenty of games geared toward the littlest of players all the way up to grown-ups. Note: Game Knight is open to minors until 8 p.m. 

3037 N Williams Ave.
Portland
Online: pdxgameknight.com

Skyline Burgers

One of Portland’s oldest diners, Skyline has been serving classic burgers and shakes since 1935. From the adorable neon-studded exterior, to the cozy red-vinyl booths inside, you and the kids will feel like you’ve stepped back in time. There’s a kids’ menu with favorites like corndogs and chicken fingers, plus classic soft serve ice cream and thick malted shakes. Though no longer offering car service, this former drive-in still consistently makes the list of Best Burgers in town.

1313 N.W. Skyline Blvd.
Portland
Online: skylineburgers.com

Related: The Dish on Portland's Best Family-Friendly Restaurants

Courtesy of The Bomber Restaurant

Bomber Restaurant

An aviation-theme restaurant, the Bomber has been around since 1948 (!) and features classic breakfast and lunch options with names that fit with the flight motif. In the morning order up Wings over Brussels (that’s Belgian waffles, of course), and in the afternoon choose from standards like the Bomber Burger or Wing Leader chicken tenders. This gas-station-turned-restaurant used to feature a real B-17 airplane on the roof. While the plane is currently being restored, the original diner is currently open daily.

Insider Tip: You can tour the B17 at the Salem airport, where the B17 Alliance is restoring the bomber to fly again.

13515 S.E. McLoughlin Blvd.
Milwaukie, OR
Online: thebomber.com

Purrington’s Cat Lounge

Though more of a stop for light fare (think coffee and pastries, or salads and sandwiches), we couldn’t resist including this truly unique theme restaurant on our bucket list. Purrington’s Cat Lounge offers counter service food and drink (including beer and wine!) alongside a chance to hang with resident, adoptable cats! Reserve a spot for 30 or 60 minutes, or just drop by.

3529 N.E. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.
Portland
Online: purringtonscatlounge.com

The Melting Pot 

Since 1989, the Melting Pot has been carrying on the 1970s fondue craze with a delicious interactive dining experience. Pick a special birthday or graduation and head back in time with your whole crew for a festive splurge— this one’s a pricier choice, but well worth it for the chance to engage all your senses. Choose from traditional cheese and chocolate fondue, plus kids’ “fun-due” with dippable choices like chicken and pasta. There are even vegan options available, including a four-course vegan fondue meal.

1050 S.W. Sixth Ave., Suite 100
Portland
Online: meltingpot.com

Related: Where Kids Eat Free (or Under $5) in PDX

Presidents’ Day is fast approaching and with another looong weekend to fill, it’s time to find some swell activities around LA that will both entertain your pint-sized patriots and maybe even teach them about our nation and founding forefathers. We’ve rounded up a list almost as long as the Constitution of our fave presidential to-dos. So fire up “Star Spangled Banner” on the karaoke machine, slap on a stovepipe hat worthy of Lincoln and brace yourself for a President’s Day weekend to remember.

Dive Into American History Lessons (That Are Actually Fun)

SoCal is home to not just one, but two presidential libraries and museums. And now that things are reopening, the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum is once again hosting its Annual Presidents’ Day Celebration with lots of storytelling, entertainment and even president and first lady look-alikes—ooolala! Or if Nixon's your guy, head over to the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum in Yorba Linda on Mon. for the unveiling of the official 2022 White House Christmas ornament honoring the Nixon presidency. Some interior spaces at the museum still remain closed to the public due to COVID.

On June 12, 1987 President Reagan stood 100 yards from the Berlin Wall that divided East and West Germany and delivered his infamous "Tear Down This Wall" speech that would prove to be a turning point in the Cold War. To commemorate the 20th anniversary of the fall of the Berlin wall, LA's Wende Museum installed one of largest stretches of the original Berlin wall in the world at 5900 Wilshire Blvd (across from LACMA). Stop by and share this great piece of history with your family.

At the Autry Museum, little cowpokes can ooo and ahh over hundreds of pieces of art and important artifacts that showcase the triumphs and hardships of the American West. Don't forget to try your luck at panning for gold with your little 49ers. It's always a hit with kids.

Kennedy was president during the great space race and a visit to the California Science Center to scope out the Space Shuttle Endeavor is the perfect way to see just how far we’ve come and inspire future space explorers of your own.

Known as the “Battleship of Presidents," the Battleship USS Iowa was the WWII flagship that carried President Franklin D. Roosevelt across the Atlantic for meetings with Winston Churchill. It was also the flagship for President Reagan during our nation’s Celebration of Liberty on July 4, 1986. Visitor tours have recently resumed and there's never been a better time to check out this incredible naval history museum.

Finally, don’t throw away your shot to catch Lin-Manuel Miranda’s Tony Award-winning juggernaut, Hamilton, at the Pantages Theater before it ends its run in Mar. We can’t think of a cooler way to teach littles about Alexander Hamilton’s history as one of the founding fathers of the United States.

Dive Into America’s Melting Pot

When President Obama was on the campaign trail in 2011, his motorcade famously stopped for a bite and some hand shaking at one of LA's most iconic eateries—Roscoe's Chicken and Waffles. As a tribute to the former president's visit, Roscoe's now features the #9 Obama’s Special on their regular menu—3 wings with a waffle or potato salad or french fries.

Not to be outdone, Canter's Deli also hosted Obama in 2014 when he stopped by to speak with a group of Americans who had written to him about their struggles. While he was there, he visited with customers and posed for photos. President Kennedy and President Nixon were also known to have dined here as well.

If you have a hankering for something sweet this Presidents' Day, nothing's more American than good old fashioned apple pie. Visit your favorite local spot for a slice (or whole pie) to go.

One of the things that makes America so special is that it's a true melting pot of different of cultures. At Smorgasburg LA, a weekly pop-up every Sun., you can taste a wide variety of foods from sea to shining sea. Another great pit stop for a wide offering of multicultural cuisines is Grand Central Market downtown—it's fantastic!

Dive Into America’s Parks

Honor Teddy Roosevelt, the founder of our nation’s great parks system, and treat your family to an afternoon filled with sunshine and fun-filled nature exploration. Choose a day hike from one of our favorite destinations, some of which may even have waterfalls!

If you're craving some eye-popping flora and fauna, we highly recommend a visit to The Huntington Garden Library, Art Museum and Botanical Gardens. There's no more beautiful place to spend the day. And while you're there, pop by the Library to check out the Huntington's famous collections and papers of George Washington, Thomas Jefferson and Abraham Lincoln.

Given the long weekend, use that extra time to visit a National Park. There are so many close to LA—from Joshua Tree and Cabrillo to Channel Islands National Park and more—there's a nearby spot to explore, including cabins and vacation rentals if you want to extend your stay. 

Dive Into American Pop Culture

Throughout history, America has consistently stood at the forefront of filmmaking. For an immersive look at the history of cinema, visit the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences that opened last fall. Highlights for kids include the Hayao Miyazaki exhibition (which ends in Jun.) and the Pixar 3D Zoetrope.

If the pandemic's brought us one good thing, it's the return of drive-in movies. On Presidents' Day weekend, Street Food Cinema will feature the movies Up and LaLa Land with a delicious selection of foods on site that are available for purchase.

We could wax poetically all day about the kitsch of Madame Tussaud's Hollywood. Visit your fave celebrities who've been expertly sculpted into wax so real, you may have to do a double take. They'll even pose for a photo or two with you...after all, they're not going anywhere.

American football is an enormous part of our culture, especially when our city not only hosts this year's Super Bowl, but also has a team competing in it (Go Rams!). So even if you didn't snag tickets to the big showdown, football fans can take a tour of the new Sofi Stadium in Inglewood which has been dubbed by some as the "very best in the world." Guests get to run through the tunnel, participate in on-field challenges and more.

Throughout history, America has consistently stood at the forefront of filmmaking. For an immersive look at the history of cinema, visit the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences that opened last fall. Highlights for kids include the Hayao Miyazaki exhibition (which ends in Jun.) and the Pixar 3D Zoetrope.

If the pandemic's brought us one good thing, it's the return of drive-in movies. On Presidents' Day weekend, Street Food Cinema will feature the movies Up and LaLa Land with a delicious selection of foods on site that are available for purchase.

We could wax poetically all day about the kitsch of Madame Tussaud's Hollywood. Visit your fave celebrities who've been expertly sculpted into wax so real, you may have to do a double take. They'll even pose for a photo or two with you...after all, they're not going anywhere.

American football is an enormous part of our culture, especially when our city not only hosts this year's Super Bowl, but also has a team competing in it (Go Rams!). So even if you didn't snag tickets to the big showdown, football fans can take a tour of the new Sofi Stadium in Inglewood which has been dubbed by some as the "very best in the world." Guests get to run through the tunnel, participate in on-field challenges and more.

—Jennifer O’Brien

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Valentines Day is so much more fun when you’re celebrating it with your kids. No stress, no fancy clothes and no staying up too late. In Atlanta, there are plenty of places to show your loves that you love them. Keep reading for our favorite places to celebrate Valentines Day as a family, below.

Family Valentines at Halcyon

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Celebrate a family Valentine's Day at Halcyon with brunch or lunch in Market Hall or at one of their restaurants, then head over to Village Green for live pop violin music by Michelle Winters, a meet and greet with Minnie & Mickey, a Furkids puppy kissing booth, Valentine crafts with Board & Brush, Buff City Soap, and more. This event is free and no registration is required. 

Tour Love Stories of Oakland Cemetery

A mom and daughter embrace
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Learn about the love stories buried in Oakland Cemetery on this historical walking tour of Atlanta's finest final resting place. Feb. 12-14 248 Oakland Ave. SE Grant Park Online: oaklandcemetery.com

Enjoy Fondue at The Melting Pot

unique dessert charcuterie board
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Enjoy a three-course fondue meal to celebrate the Valentine’s holiday with your kids, and be sure to bring a valentine card for a nurse or healthcare professional and you can enjoy endless chocolate fondue. Reservation required.

Feb. 6, 1-4 p.m. Atlanta, Duluth, Kennesaw and Roswell locations

Online: meltingpot.com

See a Family Performance of Atlanta Ballet's Snow White

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In this one-hour ballet version (perfect for kids who may not make it through a full-length production) of Snow White choreographed by Bruce Wells, audiences will enjoy following the young heroine and her prince as they outwit the schemes of the evil queen. Feb. 4-6, multiple performance times 2800 Cobb Galleria Pkwy. Perimeter Online: cobbenergycentre.com  

Bee Mine at The Atlanta History Center

bedtime routine
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At this special story time at the Atlanta History Center, you and your toddler will we will learn all about how bumblebees spread pollen and how we can spread love. Come to hear The Very Greedy Bee by Steve Smallman, make a fun valentine and learn the bumblebee dance. Registration encouraged. Feb. 7 at 10 a.m. 130 West Paces Ferry Road NW Buckhead Online: atlantahistorycenter.com  

—Shelley Massey

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A darling of the seventies, fondue calls to mind mod vintage kitchenware in avocado and orange hues, but its revival is well underway. This DIY meal brings together the happy pairing of the utmost comfort foods: carbs and melted cheese or chocolate. It also brings the family together like no other meal, with skewers around a communal pot. Not sure you want the little ones leaning in to share from a cauldron of hot goo in your own home? There are plenty of NYC spots that can show you how it’s done.

kashkaval-garden-fondue

photo: via Kashkaval Garden Facebook page  

Manhattan

Kashkaval Garden
The snug Kashkaval began as a cheese store so it’s no surprise it has become a premiere fondue destination.  Kids are welcome here and the restaurant has just opened a second room.  Kashkaval is Bulgarian and while not a tradition of the region, the cheese fondue taps into its Mediterranean feel. There are several different cheese fondue blends to choose from and staff are tight lipped about their recipes. There’s currently a seasonal cheddar and cider fondue on offer and the chef is open to testing out new cheeses to see what works. You’ll get a sliced baguette to dip or you can pick a plate of fruit and veg or meat.

852 9th Ave.
Upper West Side
212-245 1758
Online: kashkavalgarden.com

max-brenner

photo: via Max Brenner Facebook page

Max Brenner
Your little one will feel like a candy king or queen with a trip to this chocolatey realm on Broadway.  Max Brenner takes the guilt out of chocolate and offers kids the opportunity to get unapologetically messy with it. The fondue is no exception – dubbed the Fondue Tower, you will be presented with a bowl of sponge cake, marshmallows, cookies, berries and bananas to dip into stacked pots of melted dark, milk or white chocolate. You can pick a warm toffee sauce if chocolate isn’t your thing. But really? Do not expect to get out of here without evidence of indulgence all over your face.

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

murrays-cheese

photo: Murray’s Cheese Facebook page

Murray’s Cheese Bar
Murray’s isn’t set up with high chairs or a kids menu but they do offer a mean fondue and are happy to share their cheese passion with the younger generations. It’s a small space next to their cheese store and it can get fairly loud and crowded so getting a table soon after they open at 11 a.m. on the weekends would work best with little ones. You won’t find fondue on the menu, but you will find fondue’s equally indulgent cousin, raclette, where melted cheese is scraped directly onto your plate to accompany your meal.

264 Bleecker St.
West Village
646-476-8882
Online: murrayscheesebar.com

le-fond-fondue
photo: via La Fond Facebook page 

Brooklyn

Le Fond
This small neighborhood restaurant promises affordable riffs on the french bistro experience. Cheese fondue, a customer favorite, is offered here by request with 24 hours notice. Chef and owner, Jake Eberle, says kids love the interactive experience of the fondue and adds that, when he was growing up, the forfeit for losing the food on the end of your skewer was to kiss the person on your left.  The veggie option includes bread, fingerling potatoes, green apples and crispy roasted brussels sprouts. The cheese is a gruyere blend made in-house and you can add steak to the menu for an extra $6.

105 Norman Ave.
Greenpoint
718-389 6859
Online: lefondbk.com

melting-pot

photo: via The Melting Pot on Yelp

Upstate and Long Island

The Melting Pot
The Melting Pot is a national chain with more than one hundred stores nationwide. Causal and cozy, staff here are fondue pros and they offer cheese, meat and chocolate options. The Wisconsin cheddar mix with beer and mustard is the most popular with young families but there are five other blends to choose from including the classic Alpine with swiss cheese, garlic, wine and nutmeg. Dip bread, veggies and slices of apple. The meat fondue can be cooked by the guest or the server. For dessert, choose between a dark, milk, or white chocolate fondue with fruit and cake to dip. They’ll also throw in pecans and marshmallows to the chocolate blend for the ultimate in indulgence.

30 Mamaroneck Ave.
White Plains, NY
914-829-4404

2377 Broadhollow Rd.
Farmingdale, NY
631-752-4242
Online: meltingpot.com

photo: Angela Pham via Unsplash 

Staying Home
If the idea of fondue appeals but arming your kids with skewers in public makes you nervous, you can always try it at home.

You can buy heat-and-serve packets of cheese mix or a classic recipe would be to heat 1 2/3 cup of dry white wine in a saucepan. When it starts to boil, add 1 1/2lb of shredded Gruyere with a tablespoon of cornstarch or flour. Stir continuously for five minutes and when it’s melted pour it into a fondue pot over a gentle heat source. Cut up some bite-sized ingredients for dipping. It’s possible the kids will be so excited they won’t even notice they’re eating their veggies.

 — Emily Myers

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photo: iStock

February is National Black History Month, when we pay special recognition to the countless achievements of African-Americans that have helped shape our country and played a vital role in its history. If you have children, you undoubtedly might find yourself faced with many questions that revolve around diversity. Instead of answering these questions with a hasty response, use this month as the catalyst to encourage your children to embrace and celebrate diversity in all of its beautiful forms.

Our world is an incredible place full of remarkable differences that add to its wonders. Not allowing your children to explore these differences does them a great disservice. It’s almost impossible for your kids to go out into the world and not come across people who are different from them. Start building your children’s awareness of diversity now so that they can develop into empathetic, open-minded, and loving individuals.

Here are some ways you can encourage your children to celebrate diversity every day.

1. Explore Books & Media That Celebrate Diversity
Seek out age-appropriate books that reflect diversity. Find stories with central characters from other cultures and religions and/or of a different race or heritage, and also from unique family situations. When you read these books, take the time to talk with your child and ask her questions, and let her do the same. Not only do these books help jumpstart meaningful conversations, but they provide a working knowledge and awareness of diversity to your kids.

When you’re out, and your child sees someone different from her, she’ll have that knowledge to pull from. Plus, you can easily remind her of a character in one of the books you’ve read together. This same concept holds true for age-appropriate movies and television shows that focus on diverse characters, cultures, and concepts.

2. Encourage Conversation 
When you’re in the checkout line at the grocery, and you realize your child’s staring at the woman in the wheelchair behind you, don’t tell her to stop. This sends the message that something about this is not okay. Your child is naturally curious, and how is she going to learn about all of the world’s differences if you give the impression that they don’t exist or you’re supposed to ignore them? Instead, encourage your child to say hello. Let her ask questions and be ready to answer them.

3. Attend Virtual Cultural Events
Research and explore various kid-friendly cultural events. During the pandemic many events have gone virtual, which increases your access to many more opportunities since you’re not limited to your local area. Eventbrite and similar sites have information about these types of events, as do various museums and other institutions that you can easily access online.

These events provide a fun, interactive way for your child to explore multiple aspects of a different culture, like food, art, and certain customs. To help prepare your children for the event, read books ahead of time and talk about how the people in the culture do things differently from you.

Diversity is everywhere, and it always will be (thank goodness). Our country is a veritable melting pot of cultures and people from all walks of life. Let your children explore and discover, answer their questions, and help show them that diversity is something to be celebrated, not feared.

For more ways to connect with your children, check out what the MamaZen app has to offer, from being a happy momma to raising confident, thoughtful kids.

 

This post originally appeared on MamaZen Blog.

Jake Y. Rubin, M.A, is a Board Certified Hypnotherapist, a former university professor of psychology, and a recognized expert in hypnosis and hypnotherapy with degrees in Psychology from UCLA and the California School of Professional Psychology at Alliant International University. He is the founder of the MamaZen app.

 

Photo: via Canva

There was no room for tears on the first day, those would come in the weeks to follow. 

Today was suck it up day. 

Today was focus on breathing under the crushing weight of uncertainty and fear day. 

Today was be strong for the kid’s day. 

I watched the tail lights until they disappeared around the corner and forced myself to choose gratitude over resentment, even though I didn’t want to.

He was leaving me again—not for good, just “for now”.

This wasn’t new for us. 

In fact, we did it every single month, over and over for 2 years. We weren’t victims, we had made these choices together, but it was still really, really hard.

We finally made the choice to move our family to the place my husband was working so we could “do life together”. 

We didn’t know it, but we would be exchanging one kind of challenge for another. He still worked 100+ hours a week. Sometimes he would come home to eat, shower and sleep for a few hours. Other times he would stay in a man camp and we would still have to go weeks without seeing him. 

That lasted 4 more years.

I could have fallen into a rut of depression. 

I could have binge-watched more Netflix than any one person should.

I could have let the dishes pile up next to empty wine bottles and Reese’s wrappers.

I could have cried myself to sleep each night while reassuring a suckling baby and a snuggling toddler that they were safe and loved, shielding them from the loneliness I was drowning in.

I could have let the kids run wild through minefields of toys and crumbs,living off of applesauce pouches and granola bars.

I could have become a helicopter mom, a desperate attempt to combat the lack of control I felt.

I could have distanced myself from my husband because it was easier than aching for him.

I could have felt sorry for myself and let blame and self-deprecation run the show.

I could have.

And the truth is, all of those things were intertwined throughout my years of living the oilfield wife life. A life I don’t wish on anyone, but have grown to cherish nonetheless for how it nurtured a spider silk strength in me—flexible and resilient, nearly invisible until the light hits it.

As I fought to find the meaning in my cyclical survival, I learned how to weave delicate and intricate webs that became my life—an unexpected magnum opus.

There are many, but these are three of the accidental lessons that pulled me through and allowed me to grow from a young mother that life was happening to, to a resilient woman who happened to life:

1. Find Your Tribe

After we moved, it didn’t take long to realize I desperately needed a tribe. People to do life with. People who were in the same boat as me, who knew what it was like to be in my shoes. People who needed me too. I forced myself to be brave. I went to park parties and play dates, I signed up for clubs, I met people from Facebook groups, I hosted craft days.

Eventually, in a place I didn’t even know existed years previous, I had a “framily”, a melting pot of people from around the country that I fell in love with individually and collectively. We did birthdays and holidays together. We did paint nights and lake days and coffee mornings. 

We walked with each other through sicknesses, having babies, starting businesses, and long, cold winters. 

We made each other laugh, we let each other cry and we kept each other in the boat when one of us wanted to slip over the edge and sink into the deep, dark depths of life.  

2. Find Your Passion

I knew that if I didn’t throw myself into productive and creative endeavors, I would quite possibly trip into a puddle of life-wasting, destructive behavior.  When I had a project to focus on, it felt like stepping into a bullet-proof bubble that shielded me from all the worries that accompanied our lifestyle.  

Loneliness has a beautiful way of showing you yourself since no one else is blocking the way.  

On those quiet Friday nights, when it felt like the rest of the world was kissing and cuddling and feeling seen, I would get lost in a painting or get found in a book. I would let ideas take me anywhere they wanted. I lived a thousand different stories, met a hundred different versions of myself, without ever leaving home.  

I cultivated my passions and they became not just a safe haven through the storms of life, but a path to guide my feet to my purpose.

3. Find Your Voice

It felt like the only people I talked to were little humans who didn’t hear me. The conversations with the one I loved were pigeonholed into five-minute increments, not looking into each other’s eyes, but peering into our phone screens, hoping to catch a glimpse of our other halves world. Cut too short, not enough shared, not enough time. 

It often felt like my voice didn’t matter. So much bubbling inside of me with no place to go, the buildup increasingly painful.

I learned that sometimes feeling silenced in the best way to realize the value and power in having a voice. I learned that the less I said, the more I listened to the whispers of the world around me. I thought about things harder and longer, and when I did speak or write, my words were more concise, potent and powerful. 

I learned that having a voice isn’t about saying everything, it’s about saying the things that matter most and trusting that they will find eager ears and open hearts.

 

If you find yourself living the oilfield wife life,

or so many like it, know that you are part of a spider-silk sisterhood. 

Just because it’s hard to see doesn’t mean it isn’t hiding in the shadows. Your circumstances are an invitation to find your tribe, find your passion and find your voice. 

If you accept, a new kind of freedom will find you.

This post originally appeared on Midland Moms Blog.

Nicole is an artist, children's book author, and a free-spirited creator gracefully raising three wild offspring while chasing her bearded husband on his oilfield adventure in Midland, TX. Nicole paints pictures with words and tells stories with art that encourge people to reclaim their maker identity and live a life of colorful authenticity. 

Don’t let Ayren’s laid back, nonchalant attitude fool you. This local mama of little man, Trey is on the pulse of family-friendly activities, eateries, new openings, and events in the D.C. metro area. Ask her what should be on a DC parent’s summer bucket list and Ayren delivers a slew of in-depth, articulate answers before you can say, Red Tricycle Washington D.C. Ayren’s impressive media experience (she’s edited and written for Glamour, Real Simple, and The New York Times, to name a few) coupled with her love of everything DC has to offer to families, makes her the ideal first ever Red Tricycle D.C. Editor and we couldn’t be more thrilled that she chose to join our team. Read on to learn more about Ayren and her fam.

What’s your idea of an awesome day with the fam?
We all get up late (but not too late), just in time to walk to brunch. Our neighborhood go-to is Rustico in Alexandria, Va. They have a yummy Croque Madame Pizza topped with eggs, ham, and broccoli. My son usually hates broccoli, but on this pizza he can’t resist it. Then, we stroll to Oronoco Bay Park to watch boats pass on the Potomac River and planes fly in and out of Ronald Reagan International Airport. Next up? Naps, of course! When we wake up, we scope out a farmer’s market that’s still open (there are so many in the DMV area, but my favorites are Eastern Market in DC, West End Market in Alexandria, Va, and Takoma Park Market in Takoma Park, Md) to pick up ingredients for dinner—dinner that my husband so graciously volunteers to cook…*wink-wink*.

What’s your favorite DC area neighborhood?
I’m loving what’s going on in the Union Market area. There was a time when it was just a sea of vacant industrial spaces, now it glistens with a huge artisan market that sells everything from homemade pickles to hand-poured soaps. Not to mention all of the fun family events that happen in the area (drive-in movies, free festivals, and kids concerts).

What do you love most about being a DC parent?
I love the culture. The international community is rich (there’s something like 176 foreign embassies in DC!) and active—they host family events, open houses, and meet and greets regularly. Plus, DC is a unique mix of American southern and northern cultures; it’s no sweat to find a restaurant that serves Carolina-style barbecue right down the street from one that serves Maine-style lobster rolls. They say that New York City is the one true “melting pot,” but sometimes I wonder.

What do you love least about being a DC parent?
The traffic. Ugh. I don’t even want to talk about it.

Essential can’t-live-without mom product?
Squeeze pouch snacks. I buy them in bulk! They’re portable and mess-free, they taste good (yep, I eat–drink?–them too), and since they’re basically blended fruits and veggies, they’re an easy way to sneak peas, spinach and broccoli into my son’s diet.

What are you looking forward to doing with your son this year?
He is now in the curious stage of toddler-hood, so I’d like to start hitting up some of the kid-friendly museums that are a little off the beaten path. I’m thinking he would love exploring the Trolley Museum in Colesville, Md or the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center (aka the place where the space shuttle Enterprise is housed) in Chantilly, Va.

As Red Tricycle’s first ever DC Metro editor, what are you most excited about?
Helping parents step outside of the box when it comes to finding awesome things to do with their kids in the DC Metro area. I’m also pretty stoked about swapping ideas—where to explore, eat, and play—with other moms, dads and kids who, like me and my little family, just want to have fun!

Want to get in touch with Ayren? Drop her a line at ayren (at) tinybeans.go-vip.net.

It’s a crazy thought: ditching your peanut butter stained Lululemon yoga pants and comfy boots for a skirt and heels. But every mama needs a night out with her man. When you’re ready to go big – and we’re talking babysitter, a blow dry, and makeup – try one of these fancy and fabulous SoCal restaurants for the perfect date night.

Side Door
Reinventing the neighborhood gastropub, this place is known for their artisanal cheeses and charcuterie, alongside their English pub style eats like prime rib sandwiches, burgers, and fish and chips. Their menu is seasonal however, so you can expect something different  each time you visit. Open for brunch and dinner, the rustic space is filled with hidden nooks and bar tables that make for an intimate experience. Of course, their beer and wine menu is not to be overlooked (after all, what goes better with fine cheese than a glass of pinot?) This is the kind of place you can just “drop-in,” so it’s great for those impromptu date nights.

3801 E Coast Hwy
Corona del Mar, Ca
949-717-4322
Online: sidedoorcdm.com

George’s California Modern
If you’ve been saving up for a fancy dinner, George’s California Modern is a great choice. Located in La Jolla, this restaurant offers wonderful ambiance and amazing food to parents who want some adult time. The dim lighting and decor create a romantic setting, allowing you to be a couple for a few hours in addition to Mom and Dad. With a seasonal menu prepared under the direction of chef Trey Foshee, you’ll love the food. Tips: Make reservations — you don’t want to pay the babysitter for an hour or more of wait time! Also, arrive early and enjoy a cocktail at the Rooftop Terrace Bar, where the panoramic views of La Jolla Cove will make you feel like you’re on a romantic getaway.

1250 Prospect Place
La Jolla, Ca
858-454-4244
Online: georgesatthecove.com

R&D Kitchen
The portions here aren’t overwhelming, but the flavor sure is. Just try their french dip sandwich or their reubenesque and you’ll see what people are raving about. Their light and fresh take on traditional American cuisine often attracts business suit clad men and women on their lunch hour, so you’ll want to dress to impress. Tip: this place gets very packed during the noon lunch hour and the early evening dinner, so even with reservations, you might end up waiting for a few minutes waiting for a table. Bar seating is usually a better option for those who want to be seated faster.

Fashion Island
555 Newport Ctr Dr
Newport Beach, Ca
949-219-0555
Online: rd-kitchen.com

The Melting Pot
Imagine sitting in a dimly lit restaurant, dipping strawberries into warm, delicious chocolate and having a hushed conversation with your sweetie. No, we’re not asking you to reminisce about your life before kids! We’re suggesting you plan a date night at The Melting Pot. While it’s a chain restaurant, it seems anything but when you’re enjoying the fondue meal that can take well over an hour to eat, thanks to all of the courses (you can have up to four). Tip: Make reservations in advance. The wait at The Melting Pot can be a long one!

The Melting Pot Downtown San Diego
901 5th Avenue
San Diego (Gaslamp), Ca
619-234-5554
Online: meltingpot.com/san-diego-gaslamp/welcome

The Melting Pot La Jolla
8980 University Center Lane
La Jolla, Ca
858-638-1700
Online: meltingpot.com/san-diego-lajolla/welcome

333 Pacific
For North County parents planning a hot date night sans kids, 333 Pacific is a can’t miss. You’ll experience great service, good food and an incredible setting. Located in Oceanside, this hip restaurant offers amazing views of the pier and the ocean. The decor is stylish and the outdoor patio is the perfect spot for a romantic dinner with a view. If it’s a chilly night, the patio heaters will keep you warm, and if your kidless date night involves cocktails, 333 Pacific is known for its vodka lounge. Tip: Make reservations in advance and ask about the different seating options. There are several places to sit here and some are better than others for a romantic night out.

333 North Pacific Street
Oceanside, Ca
760-433-3333
Online: cohnrestaurants.com/333-pacific

Playground
You’ve heard the phrase “Trust the chef”? Well, that’s totally true at The Playground. For starters, there is no menu; you’re at the mercy of the chef for your meal, and while it’s often a bit heavy on meat-based dishes, it’s all pretty fantastic. Their portions are pretty generous too, being a family-style restaurant, you’ll want to arrive hungry and willing to share. If you can make it out on a Sunday night, their Sunday Supper is a must-try experience. Here’s the rundown: it’s reservations only–and you’ll want to call ahead because spots fill up real fast (we recommend a party of 4 or more) plus, they offer different dishes depending on the size of your group. Tip: Regardless of when you want to visit, you’ll want to make reservations a few days in advance…yeah, it’s that popular.

220 East 4th Street
Santa Ana, Ca
714-560-4444
Online: playgrounddtsa.com

Baci Ristorante
Think Lady and The Tramp, sharing one long spaghetti noodle until they meet in the middle, and then… Well, you know how it goes! Italian food in a dimly lit restaurant is always romantic, and Baci Ristorante is the perfect San Diego date night spot. With the servers wearing tuxes, you’ll feel far removed from the day to day life of parenting in yoga pants. And there’s nothing plain about the meals here – from veal marasala to braised lamb shank, with tons of pasta in between, you’ll enjoy a fab meal with your honey.

1955 West Morena Boulevard
San Diego, Ca
619-275-2094
Online: sandiegobaci.com

Pamplemousse Grille
Located right across from the Del Mar racetracks, Pamplemousee Grille offers you an elegant atmosphere and delicious food that’s made using traditional and contemporary French, Mediterranean and Asian culinary techniques. You’ll enjoy “comfort food” that’s high class! Nobody’s suggesting that you forget you’re parents for the night, but it’s certainly nice to be a couple, too. This date night spot will help you do just that.

514 Via de la Valle, Suite 100
Solana Beach, Ca
858-792-9090
Online: prgrille.com

Don’t have a babysitter? No problem! Try ones of these stellar drop-off childcare spots.

Where was the last place you went out for date night?

— Laura Willard

photos courtesy of George’s at the Cove facebook page, The Melting Pot facebook page, 333 Pacific facebook page, Baci Ristorante facebook page, Side Door website