In This Issue: It’s Time to Get Outside

Our region didn’t get blasted with a string of snowstorms this winter, but we definitely had our share of piercing cold temperatures. And I, for one, couldn’t be more ecstatic to finally pack away my winter coat, say goodbye to bleak skies, and say a big hello to bursts of color and warm afternoons. It’s time to relish the new season.

Growing up in Houston, Texas, I never knew that spring could be so special. If you’re unfamiliar with Houston’s climate, just imagine that “winters” usually consist of humid, 60-degree weather, and spring gets skipped over by summer pretty fast. There’s no lovely seasonal transition. It just goes from 60 to 80 degrees, and you don’t have time to stop and smell the blooming roses (literally), because you’re too busy wiping the constant sheen of sweat off of your forehead. So needless to say, when I eventually moved to the D.C. area, springtime took on a whole new meaning for me.

As DMV residents, we are very fortunate to be able to experience a few nice months of quintessential spring weather. So let’s not take it for granted! Now is the moment to get your family outside and stay outside — without the need for AC breaks in between.

This issue, we offer a lot of inspiration for getting outdoors.

We have an essential list of the area’s best hiking trails on pg. 32. From waterfalls to caves, these trails will get you and the kids pumped to be out in nature.

On pg. 34, Amanda Socci talked to the Arlington County Office about their unique after-school educational programs that are geared towards getting kids in touch with nature. Ideal for spring, these programs focus on youth gardening, scavenger hunts, bird watching and other types of nature explorations for children to enjoy.

With rising temperatures here to stay, it’s the perfect time to move family dinners outside on the patio, or host an outdoor dinner party! Soak in the good vibes of the new season with family and friends while you enjoy some of our warm weather-inspired desserts on pg. 36. Delicious, yet easy to make, even your little ones can help out in the kitchen baking these sweet treats.

Speaking of the kitchen, we also have some DIY natural cleaning recipes on pg. 28 that you can whip-up with items you most likely have in your pantry. These natural ingredients will keep your family (and the environment) feeling healthy.

In the spirit of spring cleaning — why not get your child organized and prepped for the final days of school? Discover some helpful advice from local teachers on how to end the school year strong on pg. 14.

And if you’re still trying to decide whether or not to send your kids to camp this summer, be sure to read Ana Homayoun’s eye-opening article, “Girls and Camp: Fostering Community, Causes and Confidence.” It highlights the necessary value of camp, particularly for female tweens and teens. It might give you and your child a new perspective on the summer camp experience.

But, that’s not all. We have a lot more great resources for you to enjoy, so keep on reading! I hope this issue inspires you to get outside with your family and revel in the start of a new, beautiful season in the DMV … you all deserve it.

Britni Petersen

Editor

Washington FAMILY Magazine

[email protected]

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