Feeling creative? You don’t have to paint the town red to get your fill! From pottery throwing to painting on canvas, I’ve found 7 FUN-tastic places in our area to unleash your inner artist! (Pictured above: Painting with a Twist)

And if you’re not convinced that you should even care, you might be surprised to learn that art can:

• Help you focus.
• Improve your creativity skills and dexterity.
• Be stress-relieving and therapeutic.
• Produce something tangible to cherish as a keepsake.
• Be a positive way to express your emotions.
• Showcase your talents and skills.
• Be soul-freeing.

Break the monotony of dinner and a movie. Next time you're up for a change of pace, try out one or all of these local artistic favorites:

My eight-year-old will have a new BFF five minutes into our stop at Northshore Park. I'm not sure exactly how the magic happens, but literally within minutes, she and another kiddo are racing around the playground, sharing secrets as though they've been best friends for years.

As we get older, things aren't as smooth. Making new mommy friends in your 30's (and 40's) can be challenging. Now, you're not only looking for relationships that will benefit you, you have to think about those that benefit the rest of your family as well. (Or do you?)

Are you taking care of yourself? Sometimes, we moms can be quick to take care of everyone and everything around us, but when it comes to ourselves, we're neglectful. Self Care doesn't have to involve long, drawn-out plans. You know, that trip to the spa for a massage, or the coffee date with girlfriends... yeah, give that up! You don't have time for those indulgences EVERY DAY. Instead, focus on the basics.

You might be surprised how much of these to-dos you miss doing every day. But don't worry about the past. Start from this very moment. Or if it's already past your bedtime, start fresh tomorrow!