Warm up at a locally owned coffee shop in Columbus!

Yes, if you're a local and you love coffee you already know about these great coffee houses! But, think of it as doing a service for the new arrivals.

Mmmmm....coffee!

Coffee Houses in Columbus

Food Pantries in Columbus

This doesn't really have anything to do with being bored in Columbus. The winter months often take their toll on families - higher heating bills, seasonal workers are laid off and food costs keep going up.

If you or someone you know is in need of food assistance, there are several food pantries and other organizations throughout Columbus that can help.

Food Pantries in Columbus, Ohio

The Short North - live, laugh, play...

Even though I'm a country girl, I have a certain affection for many of Columbus' neighborhoods. I don't know many people who have spent any time exploring the Short North and what it has to offer and then decide they don't want to go back.

Here's a quick snapshot of one of Columbus' best neighborhoods.

Short North - Neighborhood Profile

Columbus Metro Parks ARE open in the winter...

The hours might be a little more limited in the cold, winter months but Columbus' Metro Parks are open year-round. More importantly, there are several winter hikes and other activities planned.

Columbus, Ohio Metro Parks: Winter Activities

Christmas Charity Donations

The holidays are fast approaching and many of the Columbus-area charities that provide holiday assistance are still in need of your help - donations of items, food, money and time. Giving any of these items can help make Christmas a little brighter for others.

Christmas Charity Donations in Columbus

Hanukah at Ohio State...

And also in Bexley and at Easton Town Center...

Several Activities During Hanukah for Ohio State University Students

The Drexel Theater and Indie Flicks!

Independent movie theaters should be cherished. Even with all of the mega-chain theaters in Columbus, we still have a few gems and the Drexel in Bexley is one of them.

Yes - they do show some mainstream films but the focus for me is the array of indie-flicks. Oh - every month the Drexel has a viewing of "The Room" - second Saturday - don't miss it!

Drexel Theater is Columbus, Ohio's Home for Indie Films