Pumpkin spice lattes ☕ are back, and while I’m not a big Starbucks fan as of recent, the early return of this fall favorite has me curious. Rolling out in August for the first time ever, the PSL’s debut reflects Starbucks’ strategy to book sales after recent declines. Alongside the beloved latte, expect other pumpkin and apple treats to signal the start of fall 🍁. For us moms, this early taste of autumn is a reminder to embrace the season’s cozy moment as we gear up for the busy months ahead.

• Navigating Middle School: A Parent’s Guide to Academic Success

• Falling for a Getaway: Top Spots for a Fall Escape

• Microplastics: Tiny Trouble or Overblown Hype?

PARENTING

Middle school survival guide.

Middle school: where everything changes and nothing feels quite the same. Between navigating new social circles and dealing with the dreaded locker combination, kids have a lot on their plates. But amidst all the chaos, one thing remains constant—your child still needs your help to succeed academically. Here's how you can stay involved without becoming a helicopter parent.

1. Be Involved (But Not Overbearing). First things first—don’t ditch the involvement just because your child is in middle school. Stay on top of their assignments by checking Google Classroom or the online gradebook regularly. If their school doesn’t provide a planner, get one for them. This is the time when they’re juggling multiple subjects with different due dates, and trust us—they’ll need help managing that. But remember, your child’s homework is their work. Resist the urge to do it for them; let them learn from their mistakes. 📚

2. Encourage Smart Time Management. Homework in middle school often doubles as unfinished classwork. Encourage your child to use their in-school time wisely, so they’re not buried under a mountain of homework later. If you have concerns about assignments cutting into family time, reach out to their teacher to discuss it. Open communication is key. 🤝

3. Keep the Phone at Bay. Phones are more of a distraction than a helpful tool in middle school. If the school allows phones, make sure they stay in lockers during class. And as much as you want to text them, try to limit non-emergency messages. Let’s keep school communication old school—through the office, just like back in elementary days. 📱🚫

4. Support Without Smothering. Sure, middle school is stressful, and mental health days sound appealing. But be cautious. Too many “mental health” breaks can lead to school avoidance. If they need a day off, make it a quiet one—no screens, no outings, just rest. And let’s not forget the basics: make sure they’re getting enough sleep, eating a healthy breakfast, and yes, showering regularly. Because Axe Body Spray is not a substitute. 🚿

TRAVEL

Trading flip-flops for hiking boots.

Summer may be waving its final goodbye, but that doesn't mean vacation season is over. With the school routine settling in and pumpkin spice starting to pop up everywhere, it's the perfect time to plan a cozy fall getaway. Whether you're looking to leaf-peep or sip hot cider by the fire, here are some destinations that'll have you packing your bags faster than you can say sweater weather.

🍁 Mackinac Island, MI
Take a ferry across Lake Huron to this car-free haven, where time seems to stand still. Explore Victorian architecture by bike or horse carriage, and don’t miss the famous fudge from Mackinac Island Fudge. Stay at the charming Hotel Iroquois and start your day with a sunrise kayak tour—Instagram gold.

🍂 Kancamagus Highway, NH
Known as “The Kanc,” this 35-mile scenic drive through White Mountain National Forest is a fall foliage dream. Stay in Lincoln, NH, and check out the Flume Gorge and the Basin. For a taste of local flavor, visit Seven Birches Winery for a wine tasting that pairs perfectly with those autumn views.

🍁 Stowe, VT
Stowe isn’t just a ski town; it’s Fall’s Color Capital. Drive along the scenic Route 108, and if you’re in the mood for some culture, swing by the von Trapp Brewing for a brew with a view. And for the ultimate fall experience, don’t miss their Oktoberfest celebration. 🍻

🍂 Asheville, NC
Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville has it all: vibrant arts, killer food, and nature galore. Take the Blue Ridge Parkway to The Great Smoky Mountains National Park for a waterfall hike, then unwind at the subterranean spa at the Omni Grove Park Inn. Pro tip: End your day art studio hopping in the River Arts District.

AND ALSO

What’s the deal with microplastics?

Microplastics are everywhere—yes, even in your morning coffee ☕. These tiny particles, often less than 5 millimeters, come from the breakdown of larger plastics or are intentionally added to products like toothpaste. But how worried should you be?

Here's the lowdown:

What are microplastics?

• Tiny fragments of plastic found in air, water, and food.

• They've made their way into our bodies—think heart, liver, and even kidneys.

Should you be concerned?

• Maybe. While the health effects aren't fully understood, microplastics contain toxic chemicals, and their presence in our organs isn't exactly comforting.

• Some scientists suggest a potential link to rising cancer rates, but the evidence is still hazy.

What can you do?

• Swap plastic containers for glass.

• Skip microwaving food in plastic.

• Stick to fresh fruits and veggies prepared at home.

In short, the jury’s still out on microplastics’ true impact, but minimizing exposure? Not a bad idea.

TRENDING

SNIPPETS

🏠 A 3D-printed neighborhood worth a visit. Texas is building the world’s largest futuristic community.

🚀 Out-of-this-world adventure ahead. SpaceX’s Polaris crew is gearing up for their first private spacewalk.

👗 Fashion on a budget just got better. Discover 60 insanely comfy and cute Amazon outfits under $35.

🌕 A lunar light show you can’t miss. August’s blue supermoon lights up the night in stunning photos.

🥗 A salad lover’s dream come true. Mom of 9 turns her kitchen into a salad bar to promote healthy eating.

🍗 A nugget of trouble for Perdue. 167,000 pounds of chicken nuggets recalled after metal wire discovery.

A couple took Lilo and Stitch's ‘ohana’ to heart, building a family with two biological kids and nine adopted foster children, all united by the belief that no one gets left behind. Want to see how they brought this idea to life? Check out their heartwarming story.

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