As the holidays approach, we’re all feeling a variety of emotions. On one hand, there’s a great deal of relief to ring in the end of 2020, but we’re also feeling a good deal of anxiety about celebrating the holidays with the people we love—especially as the City of Pittsburgh is discouraging the community from visiting friends and family to celebrate. As COVID-19 cases increase in Pittsburgh and the rest of the United States, we’re reminded of how important it is to be open to a new take on old traditions.

With the rollercoaster of restrictions that has come from the coronavirus this summer, our front porch has become our new favorite escape. While we love to watch the neighborhood and say hello to passersby, it has taken some creativity to enjoy our favorite summertime traditions.

The coronavirus outbreak disrupted the school systems all over the country. As parents of four, we know as well as anyone else just how difficult the last semester was for everyone—teachers, students, and parents. The modified school year added an extra level of stress for many, and now that summer’s here, you may wonder how to regain some of the normal momentum—and how to keep your kids engaged and prepped for next school year.

Now that Pennsylvania is in the Green Zone, we’re watching more and more people escape to the sidewalks to enjoy a little sunshine and fresh air. We can’t blame them. After a few months inside the house with the kids, we’re ready to get everyone outside to run around and play! Here are a few of our favorite spots to visit.