I didn’t expect to cry the way I did on Grant’s last day at Brain Balance.
But I sobbed.

In December, Grant reached a milestone that felt so much bigger than a prize or a single day of celebration.

If you love discovering new restaurants, supporting local businesses, and having a built-in excuse for a great night out, Howard County Restaurant & Craft Beverage Weeks are officially back — and 2026 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting years yet.

Winter has a way of slowing us down, at least a little, and honestly, I welcome it.

Looking for a new place to host your party in 2026? Whether you’re planning a birthday celebration, wedding reception, baby shower, or family reunion, Howard County Recreation and Parks offers a wide variety of event venues across Howard County, Maryland—many of which locals don’t even realize are available to rent.

Ho ho ho, the holiday excitement is real in our house! My kids have been counting down the days to see Santa, and I’m right there with them, watching their eyes light up as they spot the big guy in red is just pure magic.

Hey there! As the year winds down and our calendar page turns to December 31, I can’t help but start daydreaming about how I’ll ring in 2026 with my family and friends right here in Howard County.

There’s something undeniably magical about fall in Howard County, the crisp air, leaves crunching underfoot, and that golden hour glow that makes everything feel like a scene from a rom-com.

If someone had told me three months ago that the biggest changes I’d see in Grant wouldn’t be loud, dramatic, or outwardly obvious, I don’t think I would have believed them.

If you’re a busy Maryland mom juggling work, kids, school drop-offs, and holiday chaos, you know how rare it is to find a moment that feels just for you.

This year, I’m skipping the “stuff” and filling our family calendar with local adventures, cozy traditions, and experiences that make the holidays truly magical, all thanks to Howard County Recreation & Parks.

There’s nothing quite like the magic of twinkling holiday lights to bring out the wonder of the season, especially when you have little ones who are wide-eyed and full of Christmas spirit.

When we started this journey, I thought we were signing up for something that would help Grant with focus, sensory integration, and learning. And while it’s done all that, it’s also changed the emotional rhythm of our home, starting with how my husband and I parent.

How hosting my daughter’s birthday at Dominique Dawes Gymnastics Academy took the stress out of celebrating.

Looking for a cozy, close-to-home getaway this fall? Here’s how I’d spend a weekend in Howard County, full of great food, local charm, and that crisp fall feeling.