I've lived in New Jersey my entire life, but just recently discovered the Victorian Village on the Delaware known as Frenchtown. This picturesque town is tiny (just over one square mile), but packed with plenty to do for nature lovers, shoppers, foodies and families. We've highlighted some of the best reasons to visit this great little town. With a perfect location and an eclectic mix of shops and restaurants we promise you won't be disappointed. Take a day trip to Frenchtown and find out why it might just be New Jersey's best kept secret. For even more great small town destinations, check out our Small Towns Guide.

Birthday party planning is never simple. Throw in the added fun of planning a party during the holidays and busy parents might lose their minds. Unfortunately, it's all too easy for November and December birthdays to get lost among all of the other holiday celebrations. Luckily, New Jersey offers some great ways to make your little one's birthday special no matter when it is. We have some great birthday ideas that will make your kids happy to celebrate their special day during the holiday season. For more great year round birthday party ideas check out our Birthday Party Guide.

My daughter has tried everything from dance lessons to cooking classes, but the one activity that has kept her interest for the past 6 years is being a Girl Scout.  We started the scouting journey together when she was in kindergarten.  She was an adorable Daisy Scout and I became an enthusiastic troop leader.  For the past 6 years I have had the pleasure of watching a group of girls mature from wild 5 year olds, who spent meetings crafting and giggling,  to enthusiastic young ladies who have learned the values of friendship, the outdoors and community service.   Just this year, the girls in our troop earned the Girl Scout Bronze Award for creating an organic garden and donating the crop to the local food pantry.  In addition to teaching valuable lessons, Girl Scouting is just plain fun.  Who doesn't love earning patches, selling cookies and making new friends? Read on for some great information on getting involved with Girl Scouts in New Jersey.  For more great after school activities, check out our Classes and Activities Guide.