Just before the holidays, Jon and I enjoyed a day in Rockport, inspired by a kind invitation from the Town of Rockport. Though we were there for less than 24 hours, I simply fell in love with this seaside town and know we will visit again soon! Just 45 minutes north of Boston (and commuter rail accessible!), Rockport is replete with awesome. And as we explored, I realized that I had a great Local Gems feature on my hands!

Today I'm featuring 14 picks I discovered during our little overnight trip. However, I am certain based on the reading material I reviewed that there is tons more to explore -- both in seasonal shops/restaurants and attractions more conducive to flip flop weather! Think of this feature as the Rockport winter edition; once I have a chance to explore further during the spring/summer, I have a feeling I'll have a lot more gems to share!

1. Blue Lobster Grille. Casual, comfortable, and bustling with activity, Blue Lobster Grille was our first stop when we arrived in Rockport. The food was hearty (and generously portioned!) and props to the availability of local beers. Be sure to hit the ATM in advance as this is a cash-only cafe.

2. Lula's Pantry. Foodies (and foodie gift givers) will delight in Lula's Pantry. Filled with pretty kitchen accessories and food gifts (including lots of locally made items), my only struggle was with the overwhelmed-by-awesome factor. I spent a considerable amount of time paralyzed in front of the gourmet salts and gorgeous tableware options. (Total first world problem, I know.)

3. Rockport Art Association. Rockport is clearly an artist's haven, with galleries seemingly at every turn; it reminds me quite a lot of Wellfleet and Kennebunkport. If you're looking for a starting point, head to the Rockport Art Association, which offers exhibits and educational offerings.

4. The Tuck Inn. Rockport's range of accommodation options shows that the town is clearly ready for visitors. And if you're looking for a homey, cozy option just steps from Bearskin Neck, head to The Tuck Inn. Owners Liz and Scott Wood make their guests feel like family, and if you enjoy baked goods, PREPARE YOURSELF. The breakfast buffet was bursting with fresh fruit, yogurt, an incredible warm homemade applesauce, and a truly crazy array of baked treats. Scott even sent us off with a goodie bag of delicious baked treats to take home to the girls. (My girls will love you forever, Scott.)

5. Toad Hall Bookstore. I adore indie bookstores and Toad Hall donates 100% of net profits to environmental charities (FIST BUMP, Toad Hall!). The entry floor is small but packed with titles and if you've got the legs to try the narrow spiral staircase, you can ascend to used and sale titles upstairs or children's books downstairs.

6. Brothers Brew Coffee Shop. Coffee on vacation tastes even better than coffee on a regular day and Brothers Brew doesn't disappoint. They also offer killer homemade donuts for 94 cents. I almost never buy donuts but here I couldn't resist. And it was hard to stop at one. (Now that I think of it, I'm wondering why I stopped at one.)

7. Milk & Honey. Milk & Honey is such a tantalizing gift store that I visited and shopped twice within an 18-hour period. Filled with gorgeous home goods, bath products, and specialty food items (e.g., fancy marshmallows, condiments), it was very, very easy to shop here (for others and, er, myself). I recently learned that 95% of the locally owned small businesses in Rockport are woman-owned (I don't know about you but this makes me want to shop there even more) and the woman who owns Milk & Honey (as well as a small clothing/accessories store across the street) has impeccable taste. Also, I loved that the owner's mom was working the cash register during our first visit. Hooray for moms!

8. The Paper Mermaid. The Paper Mermaid is a small shop offering a delightfully curated array of paper goods, gifts, and toys. As a former employee of Paper Source, it was fun to see some of PS's wares for sale there. I picked up some lovely kids' gifts there.

9. Rockport Music Shalin Liu Performance Center. The former semi-professional musician in me nearly passed out when we peeked into the Shalin Liu Performance Center. Rockport offers a truly impressive range of cultural programming year-round, and what blew my mind was the stage's oceanfront backdrop. Simply magical. I admittedly totally fantasized about playing my college recital programs in that space.

10. The Grand Café at Emerson Inn By the Sea. For a more upscale dining experience, head to the elegant Grand Café at Emerson Inn By the Sea. The stately 36-room seaside inn is on the Historic Hotels of America registry and The Grand Café conjured a similar feeling of grandeur, complete with live piano playing. From appetizers to dessert, the food was delicious (the seafood stew was amazing and seemed to include many pounds of seafood, which I devoured in entirety) and the cocktails delightful.

11. Halibut Point State Park. It was quite cold and windy when we were in Rockport, but nothing could keep us from exploring Halibut Point State Park. This oceanside state park includes breathtaking quarry views (no rails or ropes; keep back from the edge!) and trails that lead to the ocean. The ocean truly is my happy place and I'm not exaggerating when I say that I was moved to tears by the beauty and vastness down on the rocks. Also, this may sound slightly crazy crunchy, but I was quite excited that the porta potty at this site is hooked up to a composting system.

12. Helmut's Strudel. Tucked away towards the end of Bearskin Neck and set back a bit off the road, I couldn't resist this strudel house. I mean, I totally applaud a baked good purveyor that wants to go narrow in a niche! And Helmut's delivered. The warm little cafe was a respite against the cold and offered quality strudel at an affordable price.

13. Bean & Leaf Cafe. Open year-round and offering cafe seating with a gorgeous view of the water, the Bean & Leaf Cafe is a good spot for families to refuel; plenty of kid-friendly offerings, coffee, and treats.

14. Motif #1 Rockport Harbor. There's a reason this red fishing shack/barn (known as Motif #1) in Rockport Harbor is one of the most photographed structures in the United States. I couldn't help but let out a happy little sigh when I saw it. And I immediately took out my phone to snap this picture.

Want more Local Gems? Check out the Arlington Center, Back Bay, Beacon Hill, Coolidge Corner, Huron Village, Easton, Jamaica Plain, Lexington, Medford, Natick, Newton North villages, Watertown, and Wellesley features. And if you'd like to pen a Local Gems guest post, contact Christine at editor@bostonmamas.com to check on availability.

Disclosure: The Town of Rockport kindly invited me to visit and I was invited to stay at The Tuck Inn and enjoy dinner at The Grand Cafe gratis. All opinions about these two gems (and the other 12 featured here) are, of course, my own.

Image credits: all images via linked websites or associated Facebook pages, with the exception of Halibut Point State Park, Motif #1, and the first thumbnail, via Christine Koh.

Hooray, it's Local Gems time! Today's Newton recommendations come from my friend Sharon Reilly, mom of three, blogger at ViolaCay, and cofounder of the Newton Kitchen Tour. Thanks for sharing these 11 local gems, Sharon! And be sure to check out the Arlington Center, Back Bay, Beacon Hill, Coolidge Corner, Huron Village, Easton, Jamaica Plain, Lexington, Medford, Natick, Watertown, and Wellesley features!

From Sharon:

Newton was founded in 1630 and is comprised of 13 villages, all with their own personality. We have a population of close to 80,000 in approx 18 square miles. So yeah, it's big. For today we're going to concentrate on the north part of Newton. Yes, the one with the gazillion dollar high school! There's no shortage of fine dining, high end boutiques, and hair salons, but I'm going to focus on my favorites as a mom! My parents both grew up in Newton. I have loved it forever and knew I wanted to raise my kids here.

1. The Cove/Lyons Park/Charles River Canoe and Kayak (Auburndale). My first gem is a giant space encompassing Charles River Kayak & Canoe, Lyons Park, and The Cove. These outdoor spaces are loosely connected and awesome places to take the kids. You can paddle your way down the Charles River and end up at The Cove, a park run by the city of Newton. You can take a walk through the woods and end up at Lyons Field where they play little league baseball under the lights on warm spring nights. It's magical, all of it. I have had two of my kids' birthday parties at The Cove (you can rent sites that have BBQ grills and picnic tables), a massive park with tennis and basketball courts, a baseball field, a giant pile of sand, play structures, and bathrooms. In the winter there is ice skating on the river with a warming hut! Sometimes the mayor even stops by with hot chocolate!

2. Just Next Door (Auburndale). I buy almost all of my gifts at Just Next Door! I can stop in on the way to a 7-year-old's party find something awesome for the right price and they wrap it up. I've even found something for the ever difficult to buy for 14-year-old boy. They have a huge selection of Vera Bradley and fun jewelry. My Christmas presents from the kids always consist of a bangle or a necklace from JND. 

3. West Newton Cinema (West Newton). West Newton Cinema is a small six-screen theater that shows first run and film festival favorites. You can rent a theater for kids parties and special occasions. WNC was a part of our wedding celebration, showing our love story to our guests. It was built in 1937 and the seats have seen better days, but it's still a gem. I'm hoping Newton native John Krasinski (of The Office) will swoop in to restore it. Oh, and the popcorn has REAL BUTTER!

4. Sweet Tomatoes (West Newton). Sweet Tomatoes is a small chain of pizza places throughout Massachusetts. It's pretty close to true Neapolitan pizza. My personal favorite is mushroom, spinach, and ricotta. Ask for the smooth sauce if you have chunk-averse kids (like mine).

5. The Rox Diner (Newtonville). The Rox Diner is one of our go to family dinner spots; they serve delicious salads, burgers (Green Lantern please!), and breakfast. The Mickey Mouse pancakes are available all day long AND they have wine and beer. Major win.

6. George Howell Coffee (Newtonville). I am a coffee snob. I love a good cup of coffee. I like it roasted well. I like espresso better than drip. A good latte is a day-changing event for me. Yes, I have had baristas remake a coffee. I'm that customer. However, I always get great coffee at George Howell Coffee in Newtonville. Always. They consider themselves a coffee lab. They brew new coffees to gather customer feedback before offering them online and test new coffee equipment and brew methods.

7. Down Under Yoga (Newtonville). Ohhhhhhhhm. Take a break mom, take a well-deserved break! Down Under Yoga is a great spot to get your ohm on. 

8. Salvis Barber Shop (Nonantum). I take my boys to Salvis Barber Shop when they need haircuts. The price is right. The guys are awesome. My father and grandfather also got haircuts at Salvis back in the day, which makes me feel all kinds of nostalgic. 

9. Coletti-Magni Park (Nonantum). There's a little park in Nonantum called Coletti-Magni Park (across from Salvi's) that gets LIT UP at Christmastime. It is home of the Giant Santa. No matter your religion you'll have a fun time at the tree lighting festivities. The Newton Children's Association Christmas has been doing this since before I was a kid.

10. Prana Power Yoga (Newton Corner). Prana offers a lot of heated power yoga classes, but lots of variation as well. I most like the Hour of Power. A quick sweat and back to the pick up line. 

11. Amarin of Thailand (Newton Corner). I have been going to Amarin of Thailand for Thai food for over 20 years. I lived around the corner when I was in my twenties and that's where the love affair began. This is my mom splurge because I can't go here with my kids or bring home my pad thai because of my peanut allergic guy. I have tried a lot of Thai food in my day and apart from the street vendors on Kao San Road in Bangkok, Amarin is my favorite.

Thanks for sharing, Sharon! If you have other Newton North village favorites, feel free to share in the comments below. If you'd like to pen a Local Gems guest post, contact Christine at editor@bostonmamas.com to check on availability.

Image credits: all images via linked websites or associated Facebook pages, with the exception of West Newton Cinema, Coletti-Magni Park, Salvis Barber Shop + Amarin of Thailand images, courtesy of Sharon Reilly.

Hooray, it's Local Gems time! Today's Natick recommendations come from my friend Jodi Grundig, mom of two and editor of Mom's Favorite Stuff and Family Travel Magazine. Thanks for sharing these 10 local gems in Natick, Jodi! And be sure to check out the Arlington Center, Back Bay, Beacon Hill, Coolidge Corner, Huron Village, Easton, Jamaica Plain, Lexington, Medford, Watertown, and Wellesley features!

From Jodi:

Although it’s commonly referenced as the home of the largest mall in New England, this town 15 miles west of Boston is home to a thriving community as well as many hidden gems. From locally owned shops and restaurants to several outdoor attractions, Natick has so much to offer. Here are 10 of my favorite local gems:

1. Tilly and Salvy’s Bacon Street Farm. This small grocery shop maintains an old-fashioned, small-town vibe while offering local produce, meats, baked goods, and traditional grocery items. Seasonal offerings include Christmas trees, pumpkins, and outdoor plants.

2. Casey’s Diner. This 10-stool diner located on the fringes of downtown Natick is on the National Register of Historic Places. It still offers the same delicious steamed hot dogs that made it a Natick institution.

3. Broadmoor Wildlife Sanctuary. Broadmoor, one of the Mass Audubon wildlife sanctuaries, is a great place for a family hike. Marked trails are easy to follow. The sanctuary also offers educational programs and workshops.

4. The Natick Community Organic Farm. The Natick Community Organic Farm is truly one of the hidden gems in Natick. This nonprofit, certified organic farm is home to many farm animals and offers complimentary admission during daylight hours.

5. The Center for Arts in Natick. Housed in a former firehouse, this nonprofit arts organization presents kid-friendly and adult shows throughout the year.

6. Oga’s Japanese Cuisine. Don’t let the strip-mall location fool you. This Japanese restaurant is easily one of the best in the state.

7. Five Crows. Located in Natick Center, Five Crows offers a selection of handmade gifts from a variety of artists in the area.

8. Uni-T. Local artist Eujin Kim Neilan owns this independent shop, one of the few located in the Natick Mall. Along with Eujin’s work, the shop also features products from about 50 local artists.

9. Lola's Italian Groceria. This locally owned shop offers delicious pasta and sandwiches as well as Italian grocery items and an impressive gluten-free selection.

10. Park Street Ice Cream. Tucked away alongside Natick Common is the Park Street Ice Cream Shoppe, a shop that’s been in business for more than 30 years

Thanks for sharing, Jodi! If you have other Natick favorites, feel free to share in the comments below. If you'd like to pen a Local Gems guest post, contact Christine at editor@bostonmamas.com to check on availability.

Image credits: all images via linked websites or associated Facebook pages.

Goodness, it's been too long since I've shared a Local Gems feature! Today's Coolidge Corner recommendations come from my friend Sheri Gurock, mom of 3, co-founder of the award-winning toy/gear store Magic Beans, food blogger at Unbageled, and longtime Coolidge Corner dweller. Thanks for sharing these 12 local gems, Sheri! And be sure to check out the Arlington Center, Back Bay, Beacon Hill, Huron Village (Cambridge), Easton, Jamaica Plain, Lexington, Medford, Watertown, and Wellesley features!

1. Pear Tree. This lovely beading shop offers a huge variety of beads and tons of gorgeous example pieces to inspire you. It's a great place to visit on a rainy day with the kids, because everyone gets to be creative. One of my favorite necklaces is one my 6-year-old made for me here!

2. Eureka! It's impossible not to love this quirky game and puzzle shop, filled with all kinds of interesting products and staffed by people who love their goods and can make spot-on recommendations.

3. Knight Moves. Former Eureka! employee Devon Trevylan opened this board game cafe nearly a year ago. Gather with friends at his cozy space and choose from over 300 different board games. The cafe serves drinks and pastries, including some gluten-free options!

4. Tiny Hanger. Tiny Hanger owner Lucia has such fabulous taste and it shows in her appealing selection of clothing and gifts for babies and kids.

5. The Coolidge Theater. The Coolidge is widely accepted to be a great date-night venue, but did you know they also do a family-friendly show each weekend on either Saturday or Sunday morning? The programs are always low-key and high quality -- a great combination.

6. Brookline Booksmith. This charming locally owned bookstore is everything you'd hope for it to be and more. The selection is extensive, the staff is wonderful, and there is always an amazing schedule of authors coming to speak and sign. In the basement you'll find great deals on used books (you can also sell your used books to them), and they have a wonderful, quirky gift department, too.

7. Regal Beagle. It's always been tough to get a table at this tiny, delightful bistro, but now that executive chef Stacy Cogswell is a contestant on this season's Top Chef, it's a good idea to plan in advance if you want to come for dinner. The lunch menu is also wonderful, and they are kid-friendly.

8. Zaftig's. This iconic Coolidge Corner delicatessen is always swamped on weekends for brunch, but you can eat breakfast all day long at this very family-friendly establishment. The menu is wide-ranging and everything is tasty.

9. Rani Bistro. This Indian restaurant is really something special. The atmosphere is serene, and the menu is full of flavorful dishes with a wide range of choices for vegetarians and carnivores alike. The lunch buffet is a great deal, and before I went Paleo I loved their Dosa.

10. Paris Creperie. This hole-in-the-wall offers a dizzying array of delicious choices, from crepes to soups to smoothies. Need a meal? Grab a hearty savory crepe. Looking for a snack? Don't miss the strawberry Nutella crepe or the Nutella hot chocolate. They are set up to accommodate a range of dietary restrictions, too.

11. Party Favors. Since going GF/Paleo over a year ago, there are few things I miss as much as Party Favors cupcakes. They look as pretty as they taste, and they are always topped with a very generous amount of sweet buttercream. You can also find a wide range of party goods and even cake decorating supplies. They also offer occasional classes and birthday parties.

12. Rami's. This is an authentic Israeli dining experience. Come when it's busy and the line is likely to be disorganized, but that's part of the charm. The falafel is outstanding, crispy and bursting with flavor, served in a soft, warm pita nestled in homemade hummus. It's street food at its absolute best. Another food I miss terribly!

So awesome, right? Thanks again Sheri, for sharing your favorite picks. If you have other favorite Coolidge Corner gems, feel free to share in the comments below. And of course don't forget to pop in to Magic Beans if you're in Coolidge Corner! If you'd like to pen a Local Gems guest post, contact Christine at editor@bostonmamas.com to check on availability.

Image credits: all images via linked websites or associated Facebook pages.

I'm thrilled to share another Local Gems post today (be sure to check out the Arlington Center, Back Bay, Beacon Hill, Easton, Jamaica Plain, Lexington, Medford, Watertown, and Wellesley features)! Today's Huron Village recommendations come from Leah Klein, blogger at Leah's Life, mom to Henry and Isabelle, and Boston Expert for the app and online magazine Mommy Nearest. Thanks for sharing these 15 local gems in Huron Village, Leah!

1. Sarah’s Market & Café. Sarah’s Market is like the kitchen of the neighborhood; it's where everybody gathers and catches up. The early morning crowd includes regulars getting their coffee, parents out for an early morning breakfast with their kids, and various workmen and women, police officers, and firefighters grabbing a hearty breakfast to start their day. Sarah’s Market is half café, half market and they now carry beer and wine as well.

2. Hi-Rise Bread Company. Hi-Rise is a busy neighborhood bakery that offers treats and also dinner options. After 4pm, oven-roasted chickens are ready to be packed to go with gravy, onions, and a choice of a couple of sides. During the day, professors, professionals, and students pop in and out picking up coffee, soup, salads, and sandwiches. Kids will love the hand painted gingerbread cookies, vanilla bean loaf, rich chocolate sandwich cookies, cupcakes, and cream filled cakes.

3. Majestic Yoga. Majestic Yoga is a cozy little yoga studio with classes that let mom and dad hang upside down on straps. They have classes for all levels of yoga and for those who practice different types of yoga as well. The Tuesday afternoon children’s classes are also very popular.

4. Boudreau Branch Library. A sweet little branch of the Cambridge Public Library, the staff at Boudreau is extremely helpful and will gladly encourage little ones to get their own library card, try a new series, or request a book even if they can only remember what the cover looked like. There is a weekly singalong and story time for younger future readers as well.

5. House of Chang. House of Chang is popular for takeout and dine-in; try the dim sum on the weekends! The owners are very nice and they’re happy to talk about menu items and suggest dishes based on what you like, or what they think your children might want to try.

6. Formaggio Kitchen. Formaggio Kitchen is mecca for cheese and charcuterie, but while you are sampling cheeses the kids might have their eyes on the beautiful cookies from Lakota Bakery or the shelf full of penny candy. Formaggio also has soups, sandwiches, salads, and other prepared foods for busy parents who want to eat well but have no time to cook.

7. Magic Beans. Magic Beans is one of the best toy stores in town, offering everything from baby gear to games and toys for your tween’s next birthday party. They also have a display of little toys near the checkout that makes for great party favors.

8. Fresh Pond Market. A true neighborhood market, you can stop at Fresh Pond Market for a bottle of wine and ingredients for dinner, pick up a roasted chicken, or stop in on your walk home from the local park to buy the kids a popsicle.

9. Larch Road Park. Larch Road Park (off of Larch Road) is a great little playground with swings, two climbing structures (suitable for different ages), a basketball court, and two grassy areas.

10. Full Moon Restaurant. A truly kid-friendly spot, Full Moon offers a little play space, buckets of toys that children can bring to the table, and books, not to mention a menu that pleases both little and big palates. Come early for a quiet dinner with the family. Brunch is also very popular so head in early.

11. Marimekko. Though Marimekko is a chain, this little oasis of beauty and color warrants inclusion. Marimekko's classic graphic prints can be found by the yard or on beautiful little trays, mugs, and clothing for kids and adults.

12. Susi’s. This quirky, tiny little shop is a great place to pick up unique, handmade gifts for baby showers or birthday parties. Walking into Susi’s is like opening a treasure chest. Whether you only have time to window shop or pop in quickly, it's worth a stop because you will definitely see things you have never seen before.

13. Crate Escape Too. Whether you have your own four-legged friend or a little dog lover in the family (my kids love seeing the visiting doggies!), Crate Escape Too offers treats and playtime for dogs.

14. Elizabeth Clark Photography. Elizabeth Clark captures beautiful images both in her Huron Village studio and on location at favorite family spots and city landmarks.

15. GrayMist. GrayMist is a boutique full of beautiful things. Not only can you shop for gifts, home decor, and unique jewelry, you can also take classes and learn how to make Nantucket baskets.

Do you have other Huron Village gems you love? Feel free to share in the comments below! And if you want to pen a Local Gems guest post, contact Christine at editor@bostonmamas.com to check on availability.

Image credits: all images via linked websites or associated Facebook pages with the exception of the Marimekko image, which is by Christine Koh

Following the fun features on Medford and Beacon Hill, today’s Local Gems spotlight is on Lexington, a pretty town 11 miles northwest of Boston. I’m grateful to my brilliant friend and colleague Morra Aarons-Mele (mom of two adorable sons and a digital tour de force via Women Online and The Mission List), who shares her Lexington faves today. Thanks, Morra!

1. Wilson Farm. It's expensive and the traffic can be maddening but Wilson Farm is a magical place in my book. My boys love to go visit Belle the llama in her barn and see the fish in the garden shop. The fresh produce and plants are fantastic (as are the fresh made cider donuts, shown above), and I always buy a fresh turkey at Wilson's for Thanksgiving. My #1 favorite thing, though, is to take my sons on the spooky hayride around Halloween time!

2. Willard’s Woods. This is the most beautiful place to walk your dog. It's leash free on weekdays, which is fantastic. Park in the main parking lot and explore! Also great for kids' walks and mini hikes.

3. Arlington's Great Meadow. Despite the name, Arlington's Great Meadow is in Lexington! I sneak in behind the Waldorf School and onto the bike path. The Meadows are vast and beautiful -- you feel very far away even though you're about 15 feet from civilization. It’s great for little "hikes" for kids.

4. Revolve. Revolve offers incredible women's clothing consignment! Great designers, fair prices, and a good selection. I try to stop in once a week to see what's new. Belmont also has a Revolve but I prefer the Lexington shop for selection.

5. Ride Studio Cafe. OK, you may feel you've stepped into an episode of Portlandia, but the coffee is worth it, I promise. If you're a cycling enthusiast, this place is your hub.

6. Sweet Thyme Bakery. This little café near the Lexington Common is replete with fresh baked bread, scones, and other treats -- all beautifully presented and wrapped. They also offer a small sandwich menu.

7. Rancatore's Ice Cream. Originally established in neighboring Belmont, Rancatore's (aka Ranc's) occupies a prime spot in the heart of Lexington Center. The flavor roster changes daily and includes sweet picks such as cinnamon nutmeg, gingersnap molasses, and callebaut (Belgian) milk chocolate. Also, try the homemade hot fudge!

8. FORTHCOMING GEM ALERT: Il Casale. Nourish was originally on my local gems list, but sadly, they have since closed. The good news? Belmont's Il Casale is opening a sister bistro in Nourish's space this spring. Assuming the Lexington spot mirrors the tastiness of the Belmont location, this will be a fantastic addition to the Center!

Do you have other Lexington gems you love? Feel free to share in the comments below!

Image credits: all images via linked websites, with the exception of Willard's Woods, sourced via Lexington Patch

Today, Evadne shares a great game from a Newton-based company (also, check out below for details on a sale today and tomorrow!):

I recently played Gamewright's Take the Cake with my kids and was reminded what good wholesome fun board games are. Take the Cake's tag line describes the game perfectly: a sweet game of shakes, shapes & cupcakes. The idea behind the game is to decorate cupcake cards with colorful wooden shapes that sprinkle out of a shaker. If you complete the toppings on your turn, you collect the cupcake card -- that is, you take the cake. The player with the most cards wins the game.
As I played Take the Cake with my children, I marveled at its ingenuity. It's a simple game based on a delicious concept! My kids especially enjoyed shaking out the different shapes (white "tofu" cubes, stars, triangles, circles), and matching them to the patterns on the frosting did require my 3-year-old to verbally recognize colors & shapes. My 5-year old (who's all about "winning" these days) surprised me by strategizing over which cupcake card he could complete fastest with the shape he had in hand. And at the end of the game, even my 1-year-old was able to join in the fun as he meticulously put the wooden shapes back into the shaker. I recommend Take the Cake if you're looking for some good, old-fashioned family fun!

Editor's Note: Aptly timed, I just learned that Gamewright is having a sale today and tomorrow (10am - 4pm) at their warehouse -- 70 Bridge Street, Newton. Puzzles and games are marked up to 70% off! Cash only.

Though I do enjoy shopping, I've admittedly been turning a blind eye to the onslaught of big box Black Friday pitches I've been receiving -- partially because this marketing approach seems awfully tiresome, and partially because I'm a big fan of supporting local indie businesses. As in past years, we plan on adhering to a pretty minimal approach to holiday shopping, but when I do get around to it, I'll start by turning to what's immediately around us. I wanted to share some great ways to shop local -- there's so much talent that warrants your attention!
1. MassArt Made recently opened at Huntington and Longwood. This store features handmade products by MassArt alums, students, faculty, and staff. I haven't had a chance to stop by yet but I hope to soon -- I adore the concept!

2. I have featured Boston Handmade before; this juried group of professional local artists and craftspeople are prominent on the local craft fair circuit. Check their calendar for updates; they are participating in Holly Days in Princeton, the Mudflat Holiday Sale, the Jamaica Plain Holiday Fair, and the Bazaar Bizarre, among other events.

3. I started the Boston Mamas mamapreneur business network as a way to feature listings for local, mom-driven talent. If you need a professional photographer, look no further! There are also lots of great listings for products, indoor activities, and more.

4. Whenever someone asks me about Etsy, I describe it as a beautiful, beautiful rabbit hole. Simply set your location, search for the item you are looking for (otherwise, general browsing could send you down the rabbit hole for hours!), then click on "Local Items" in the left sidebar to shop local artists. Totally awesome.

5. And of course, look around your neighborhood! I'm particularly keen on supporting local brick and mortars because I admire their bravery in taking the plunge in paying rent (one day I dream of being similarly brave and renting studio space). In past years, it's been fun to take Laurel to local stores so she can help pick presents for her grandparents. (I recommend telling the child what the spending limit is in advance!)

Finally, through Weekly Blueprint and my Fun Weekend Picks, I will do my best to call attention to upcoming local craft shows as I hear about them. Please always feel free to comment in if I'm missing something, or drop me a line to let me know about an upcoming event!

Image credit: delicious looking natural soaps by S.S. Soap in Boston via Etsy

Today, Kate shares a great find for relocating your outgrown kid's clothing and gear:

If you're like me, you occasionally find yourself looking for good ways to pass along the clothes, toys, and gear that your kids have outgrown. Due to generous grandmothers, my daughter's dresser is often overflowing, and I search out ways to share the bounty. Two Little Monkeys, a new children's resale shop in the Union Square neighborhood of Somerville, is a great resource for anyone looking to either unload or pick up clothing, books, toys, and gear (including high-end strollers at terrific prices) for babies and children.
The owner of the store, a mother herself, offers either cash or store credit for items brought in, and purchases based on her existing inventory and the needs and tastes of her customers. All seasons are bought and sold, as are both genders and all sizes through 5T (the owner is looking to expand into larger sizes). The store is roomy and comfortable -- unlike some resale shops, which can feel musty and cramped -- and I noticed MacLaren strollers and a Stokke crib on a recent visit, as well as clothes and shoes in good condition and holiday and seasonal items. Whether you're buying or selling, definitely check out Two Little Monkeys.

Two Little Monkeys, 77 Bow Street, Somerville; 617-222-0043