In this issue:
Big Dreams, Bold Flavors
Keya Wingfield was bewildered by the sight of an oven when she moved to Virginia. She didn’t know what it was. “I thought it was a storage box,” says the Bombay, India, native, explaining that ovens aren’t prevalent in India. While some would see that lack of knowledge as a…
Boston on a Budget
Boston’s rich history, varied attractions, and walkability make it a fantastic destination for your family’s next vacation. Filled with activities for children and grownups alike, my own family’s trip to Boston was both enriching and fun, and I encourage everyone to explore all this city has to offer. As I…
RFM Reader Poll
For many, the new year signifies a fresh start. Whether you’re focusing on your health, career, family, finances, or another facet of life, this time of year can be opportunity for improvement. RFM Wants to Know: What's your New Year's resolution for 2026?
Give Your AC a Break and Save While You’re Away This Summer
Richmonders aren’t surprised by hot summer weather, but it’s getting even hotter. This summer will be one of the hottest yet, even hotter than 2024’s record-setter. That means your AC will have to work harder to keep you and your family cool. Good news: You can help avoid breaking your…
Salads with a Twist
4 Easy Recipes Pasta Lovers Will Enjoy Mediterranean Orzo Salad Serves 6 Ingredients 1 cup uncooked whole wheat or regular orzo pasta 4 ounces fresh baby spinach, chopped ⅓ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped 1 cup diced cucumber 10 kalamata olives, pitted and chopped ½ cup cannellini beans or other white…
Something for Everyone
Sand Cakes by Kallie George Illustrated by Devon Holzwarth Ages 3-7 A fun day at the beach means making some sweet treats to share with everyone. The main ingredient? Sand of course! Ohana Means Family by Ilima Loomis Illustrated by Kenard Pak Ages 3-7 Join the family, or ohana, as…
Saving for the Future
There’s nothing like holding your newborn baby for the first time – the snuggly warmth, their tiny fingers, that sense that your world has suddenly expanded. But between those late-night feedings and diaper changes, many new parents find themselves thinking about the future, especially how to support their child’s education.…
The Heat Is On
In typical fashion, RVA’s air is thick with heat and humidity this summer, but fortunately, there are tons of places around town to splash off and keep cool. A whopping 71% of you responded with “Cool off with water activities” from our last issue’s Reader Poll question, “What’s the best…
Yarn Flower Crowns
Materials Pipe cleaners Yarn Fork Scissors Instructions Gather materials. You will need 6 inch-long pipe cleaners, a fork, scissors, and yarn of your choice – we chose two colors for our dandelion flower crown. With your fork in one hand, hold your yarn end and pipe cleaner against it. Wrap…
RFM Bookshelf: The Lazy Genius Way
I picked up The Lazy Genius Way by Kendra Adachi after hearing lots of buzz about it online. I’m always up for reading books that teach me something about bettering myself and my life, and this turned out to be one of the most helpful books I’ve read in a…
Sibling Squabbles
Q. With summer break here, my two kids (ages 6 and 8) are spending a lot more time together, and the fighting over toys, screen time, and space is constant. What are some effective ways to help siblings share and get along better when they’re around each other all day? …
Good Grief
This August marks three years since my brother’s tragic and unexpected passing – as I write this I actually had to double-check the date because it feels like just yesterday and decades ago at the same time. Grief has a funny way of impacting how time passes in that way.…
Dive into Summer
Summer is well on its way, and with beach vacations and weekend pool visits on everyone’s minds, reminders about water safety are especially important during this time of year. Each day, 11 people in the U.S. die from unintentional drowning, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The…
Happy Planting
If you missed the window this spring to start a vibrant summer garden (the one you spent all winter dreaming about), don’t give up on your gardening goals for 2025 just yet. Mid to late summer is the perfect time to establish a fall garden. Fall will be a great…
“And Fatherhood”
Not too long ago my wife and I went to the Richmond Forum with friends. That evening’s speaker was Dr. Richard Reeves, and his talk – along with his research and writing – centered on a provocative question: Are we leaving men and boys behind? I found the question irritating…
Senior Heat Safety
As summer arrives in Central Virginia, many of us welcome the warmth and sunshine. But for older adults, rising temperatures can bring serious health risks that are often underestimated. Whether living independently or with family, seniors are more vulnerable to heat-related illnesses, and taking simple, proactive steps can help prevent…
A Parent’s Guide to College Applications
Every year, parents spend thousands of dollars for standardized test preparation courses, writing tutors, college coaches, and more to help their children get into college. As someone who’s gone through the college application process not once but twice, I’ve learned the ins and outs. Here are my suggestions for how…
