I was a little hesitant to go full-holiday in my note since so many of you pick up RFM as soon as it hits the stands (thank you!), but since I started seeing Christmas things in stores in August, I guess I’m safe now that it’s at least the first of November.
It’s a busy time of year, and we’re here with another packed issue to help bring a little calm to your chaos, a little order to your disarray, a little – no, a lot! – of joy to your world. Let’s dive in!
I circled so many things on the RFM calendar (starting on page 50) that I’m going to be too pooped to party come New Year’s Eve. There are so many family events, date night ideas, ladies’ outings (although anyone can certainly make a beautiful wreath while sipping wine), and even more fun things to do on our online calendar. Be sure you’re signed up for RFM eNews, so you don’t miss a single weekend highlight, new contest, and holiday happening (click here to sign up).
There are so many useful tips throughout this issue, for the holidays and beyond. On page 18, our RFM Real Mom has the best ideas to help you capture perfect holiday photos. I had no idea my iPhone had so many tricks up its sleeve – thanks, Allison! On page 44, professional home organizer Lynda Reider gives us lots of great pointers to help us decorate like a pro – and then pack it all away efficiently. Lynda, we may need you to make a house call!
Reading Joan Tupponce’s feature all about trains (page 20) has me extra-excited to make some memories during our annual visits to the Model Railroad Show at Science Museum of Virginia, the train display at Lewis Ginter’s GardenFest of Lights, and Light Up the Tracks in Ashland. She uncovered some new options for us that I’m looking forward to checking out, too. If you’re a social media user, tag us if you visit any of the spots in our article, and we’ll share it with our followers!
When you have time for a quiet family evening at home, you’ll want to watch the Mending Walls documentary after reading Taekia Glass’ feature (page 30) all about how this important project got started and the many ways it has made its way into our community and around the world. And be on the lookout for an RFM giveaway for a copy of the beautiful coffee table book, Mending Walls – A Healing Public ArtProject: The Origin Story.
What I’m most proud of as I read through this and every issue of RFM is the wide range of articles that speak to families at every stage of the game. On page 24, I was so intrigued to learn about the new United Way program, EveryDay Strong, to support kids’ – and especially teens’ – mental health. Our very next article on page 26 tells our readers about a new tool from VCU helping mothers-to-be and new parents. After that, Dr. Michele Cosby, PsyD, helps parents deal with the big emotions of little kids. There truly is something for everyone in RFM, so grab an extra copy for a friend or neighbor, or better yet, give them a gift subscription this holiday season!
From all of us at RFM, happy holiday season!
