
January 29th is Puzzle Day, so head to your local shop and buy some to work out on your own or with family members. Simple puzzles with just a few pieces can help kids get started on this fun pastime while working on their fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination. Before you know it, they'll be helping you on more complex 500- or 1,000-plus puzzles that take days to complete. And no matter what your interests, you'll probably be able to find a puzzle that matches them.
Check out the following 9 places around Ohio to puzzle it out:
342 E. Smith Rd., Medina, OH 44256
The Sweets & Geeks name says it all – the store is a pop-culture haven that carries sweet candy as well as retro and modern "geeky" games, collectibles, and puzzles. Located near the heart of Historic Medicine Square, the shop has a good selection of puzzles, including ones with Coca-Cola, DC, Marvel, and Harry Potter themes. And while you're at the store, pick up some candy to enjoy while you're working your puzzle at home. From "weird and gross" choices to nostalgic candies you might have grown up with, you'll find something to please everyone who's working on the puzzle. Hours are 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Monday-Saturday and 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Sunday.
19285 Detroit Rd., Rocky River, OH 44116
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This family-owned toy store has been open since 1984 and been in its current location since 1988, so it has many satisfied customers throughout the northeast Ohio area. It's a good spot to shop for puzzles, including ones from the popular Ravensburger brand. Their puzzles range from 15-piece ones that appeal to young children to 9,000-piece scenes that will keep the family busy for days. You'll also find uniquely fun 3D puzzles. Visit the shop from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Saturday and noon-5 p.m. Sunday.
885 W. Main St., Smithville OH 44677
Toyrifix carries a large selection of toys, games, and puzzles and prides itself on inspiring creative interactions between generations. You'll find plenty of puzzles, including one with a "Wine Time" theme that's perfect for these times of social distancing. Others follow a color theme, such as red, orange, or green, or depict colorful flowers or cute llamas. Hours are 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 9 a.m.-8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 12:30 p.m.-5:30 p.m. Sunday.
631 S. Third St., Columbus OH 43206
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You'll find much more than books at The Book Loft at German Village – which is one of the country's largest independent bookstores – including a huge collection of jigsaw puzzles. It's located a few blocks south of the state capitol building in a location with a rich pre-Civil War history. Since it takes up an entire city block and encompasses 32 rooms, you're sure to find additional items like board games, posters, and more. Hours are 10 a.m.-11 p.m., 7 days a week.
2424 E. Main St., Bexley OH 43209
Locally owned Gramercy Books carries a selection of carefully curated puzzles, books (of course), and more. It's located in the heart of Bexley, at the intersection of East Main Street and Cassady Avenue. After you select the puzzles you'd like to buy, take time to visit the store's café, Kittie's, to enjoy Stumptown coffee, snacks, and their famous cupcakes. And don't forget to pet Wally, the store's adorable dog. Hours are 10 a.m.-6 p.m., 7 days a week.
25 W. Winter St., Delaware, OH 43015
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Originally started as Fundamentals Parent-Teacher Store, Beanbag Books has been one of Delaware's favorite shops for over 30 years. Shop for puzzles, games, books, and more educational and fun activities you can share with your child. Hours are 3 p.m.-5:30 p.m. Tuesday, 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Wednesday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Thursday and Friday, and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday. The shop is closed on Sundays and Mondays.
4139 Apple St., Cincinnati, OH 45223
Downbound Books has an extensive selection of puzzles, including those that have 500 or more pieces and ones that are well suited for children or for the entire family. The shop is open for curbside pickup from 4 p.m.-7 p.m. Monday-Friday and 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday. You can also set a shopping appointment for groups of up to 5 people, and neighborhood deliveries are also offered.
3040 Madison Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45209
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King Arthur's Toys was started over 40 years ago as a tiny hobby shop, growing over the years to become a popular – and larger – store that carries puzzles, games, and toys. Shop for gorgeous Pomegranate puzzles, which are beautifully artistic. Choose from a depiction of Van Gogh's Irises, Old-World map, Renoir's Luncheon of a Boating Party, and many more. They're so attractive that they're perfect for preserving and framing to hang on the wall. Hours are 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Monday-Saturday and 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday.
7754 Camargo Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45243
You'll find a variety of puzzles and books at The Bookshelf, so a visit to the shop will have you well-stocked for at-home fun. If you become a frequent customer at The Bookshelf, you may want to purchase a frequent buyer card to receive a 10% discount, and if you're a teacher, you can score 15% off even without the card. Hours are 10:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, and 1 p.m.-5 p.m. Sunday.
What kind of puzzles will you piece together as you spend time bonding with your family?

We hate to be cheezy, but we can't wait for January 20th! Why? It's National Cheese Lover's Day! While there's no wrong way to celebrate, we love the idea of planning a complete cheese feast! Gather up all the classics and toss in a few varieties you haven't tried before.
If you want to take your day to a whole new level, start by visiting some of the best specialty cheese shops in the Cincinnati area. Here are a few of our favorites.
1737 Elm St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
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Located in the Over-the-Rhine neighborhood of Cincinnati, The Rhined sells a wide variety of American-made artisan and farmstead cheeses. All of the small-batch cheeses they carry are made by hand and can be cut-to-order in the shop. This is perfect for anyone who wants to sample a variety of cheeses without making a huge investment.
They also carry everything you need to enjoy your cheese, including olives, nuts, jams, beer, and wine. You're welcome to take your selections home or relax and enjoy a cheese flight with a glass of wine. They offer counter seating in the tiny, intimate shop or outdoor seating in their courtyard.
To minimize contact, they're offering delivery and curbside pickup. They'll also handcraft a delicious cheeseboard for your next gathering.
Are you a true cheese lover? If so, they check out their monthly cheese club box. What a great way to treat yourself all year long!
1801 Elm St. UNIT 28, Cincinnati, OH 45202
Located in the Findlay Market, JE Gibbs Cheese & Sausage has been pleasing their customers since 1922. Back then, they were simply a butter and egg stand. Today, they still carry butter and eggs, but they also have specialty cheeses, sausage, lunchmeat, Amish jams, homemade noodles, natural peanut butter, 20+ kinds of fudge, and more!
The store is still family-run, now in its fifth generation. When you visit, check out the display of tools the family used back in the 1920s, including a butter churn, manual cheese slicer, and thick wood boxes used to transport cheese. You'll feel just like you're taking a step back in time!
The owners travel to Wisconsin three times a year to restock their assortment of specialty cheeses and fresh cheese curds. While some of it goes straight to the store to sell, much of it is held for aging. They release their aged cheddar cheeses twice a year — around Mother's Day and Christmas. When they do, the supply always sells out fast. Try it once, and you'll quickly understand why this amazing treat is worth waiting for.
3036 Woodburn Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45206
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The owners of Urban Stead Cheese see cheese making as a true art form. They make all their cheese on-site and have a full tasting room, viewing windows, and a full bar with beer, wine, and liquor. Here you'll find incredible varieties of cheese, including Street Ched, their traditional English-style clothbound cheddar, Misty River, a Camembert-style cheese, and Quark, a fresh, creamy farmer's cheese. They also have Gouda, fresh cheese curds, and more!
We recommend visiting the tasting room and ordering a cheese board, cheddar curds, or beer cheese with sourdough pretzels. For the perfect experience, pair your snack with a glass of wine or a tart cherry old fashioned. Don't forget to pick up a baguette and some fresh cheese to take home with you so you can enjoy a second snack later!
2707 Erie Ave. Cincinnati, OH 45208
Nothing goes together quite like cheese and wine, which is why Hyde Park Gourmet Food & Wine is the perfect place to celebrate National Cheese Lovers Day. In addition to an enormous selection of wines, they also sell yummy sandwiches, fresh bread, cheese, crisp pickles, and more!
They're open every day for lunch and currently offer delivery and curbside to-go. Next time you find yourself in Cincinnati's historic Hyde Park Square, pay them a visit — you'll be glad you did!
6105 Ridge Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45213
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The ultimate neighborhood cheese chop, Share: Cheesebar offers a small but curated selection of cheese and charcuterie. The offerings rotate, and all of the cheese can be cut to order. In addition to cheese, they also offer grab-and-go treats, artisan products, and an excellent selection of beer and wine. Their stock changes seasonally, so you can always find something new to enjoy.
Next time you're hosting dinner or an event, visit Share: Cheesebar for a custom-made cheese or charcuterie board. They're as beautiful as they are delicious and are sure to please your guests!
1034 Walton Nicholson Rd., Walton, KY 41094
Ed-Mar Dairy believes happy cows make great cheese. They provide all of their dairy cows with excellent living conditions and a healthy diet. They also use the state's only robotic milking machine, which allows the cows to choose when they want to be milked.
Their wide selection of cheeses are made with their farm's fresh milk, which contains no antibiotics or hormones. Once it's turned into cheese, it's aged for 60 days or longer. You can order their delicious cheese online or head over to their farm where you can sample their cheese and honey, buy products, and even schedule a behind-the-scenes farm tour!
4183 Hamilton Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45223
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One of Cincinnati's most popular delicatessen and specialty grocery stores, Morsel & Nosh is well known for their wide selection of fine cheeses and cured meat. They also carry a variety of provisions from local and regional artisan producers.
Visit their online store, where you'll find a selection of cheese, meats, produce, and more for delivery or pickup. And if you really want to wow your guests at your next event, order a Mandala Board or Bohemian Board. These stunning meat and cheese boards are meticulously assembled so they look more like a fine work of art than a tray of food.
How do you plan to celebrate National Cheese Lovers Day?

Now that you've fulfilled everyone else's holiday wishes, reward yourself with a present from Cutler Real Estate and LoLo Gifts.
Greet the new year by exploring the wonderful shops and services around Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati. Our agents at Cutler Real Estate have partnered with LoLo Gifts in order to offer these special treats.
4630 Cleveland Ave. NW, Canton, OH 44709
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Dining with family or friends? Pizza is something that will make everyone happy. Share the tasty goodness of free pizza from Camellone Italian American Cuisine.
At Camellone Italian American Cuisine, their motto is, "Eat well, laugh often, love much." They take care of the first part by making pizza from scratch, including the dough and sauce. Choose from New York-style, Detroit-style, sheet-style, and even low-carb versions. Check the website for listings of lunch and monthly specials.
330.754.6995
Monday - Thursday 11 a.m. - 9 p.m.
Friday - Saturday 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.
Sunday 4 p.m. - 9 p.m.
3452 Manchester Rd., Akron, OH 44319
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Whether you need a quick pick-me-up before work or you want to relax with a good book, coffee fits the bill. Whatever your day holds, stop at Muggswigz Coffee & Tea for a cup of your favorite hot beverage.
Locally owned-and-operated Muggswigz Coffee & Tea has been recognized by USA Today as one of the 10 Best Coffeehouses in America. All coffee, including their signature espresso blend, is brewed in-house for superior quality and freshness. Place your order online ahead of time for quick and easy pickup.
234.900.8101
Monday - Saturday 7 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Sunday - 8 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.
1801 Race St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
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Not ready to stop the holiday celebrations? Every day's a fiesta at Mama Lo Hizo. Spice up your day with a free torta or tacos. Don't forget the salsa and guacamole!
Tucked into the west wing of the popular Findlay Market is Mama Lo Hizo, a delightful food stand serving Mexican favorites such as burritos, tacos, and flan. The name translates to "Mama made it," and serves as a tribute to owner Mark Whitworth's beloved mother. Mama Lo Hizo's family specials make a perfect dinner for those don't-want-to-cook days.
513.257.7959
Tuesday - Saturday 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Sunday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
936 N. 4th St., Columbus, OH 43201
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In the mood for pizza but there's no one around to share? Any pie at GoreMade Pizza can be ordered as a convenient half-sized pizza boat.
GoreMade Pizza is truly a labor of love. It started with a group of friends gathering for pizza Sunday, then expanded to a mobile wood-fired catering company. Now you can enjoy their farm-to-table, Neapolitan-style pizza on the patio of their brick-and-mortar location, even during cold weather months.
614.725.2115
Tuesday - Sunday Noon - 9 p.m.
151 S. Market St., Wooster, OH 44691
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Tantalize your taste buds and expand your vocabulary with free coffee and a cretzel from Sure House Coffee Roasting. The sweet and savory croissant-pretzel mashup is bound to become your new go-to snack.
Sure House Coffee Roasting believes that a sense of community can extend around the globe. In addition to purchasing locally-produced products, they source their single-origin beans from fair-trade organic suppliers. Cretzels come in chocolate, cinnamon-sugar, and everything flavors, or choose gluten-free scones and chocolate chip cookies.
330.601.0645
Monday - Friday 7:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Saturday 7:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.
23 Public Square, Medina, OH 44256
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Medina is buzzing about the luscious cookies, brownies, and macarons at the Honey Bee Bakery. Indulge your sweet tooth with $10 worth of freshly-made baked goods.
Remember how comforting it was to eat Grandma's homemade cookies? The bakers at Honey Bee Bakery do, and they've mastered all the traditional recipes to give you that same nostalgic feeling. With more than 500 cookie cutters on hand, they can make their signature hand-decorated sugar cookies to coordinate with any event or occasion. If that's not enough, their espresso bar features dozens of flavors to create specialty drinks such as Almond Joy and Honey Lavender.
330.725.0912
Thursday - Saturday 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Sunday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

2020 may finally be coming to a close, but thanks to Cutler Real Estate and LoLo Gifts, the freebies will keep coming. Simply contact your Cutler Real Estate agent to get in on the fun.

Did you know the Center of the World is in Ohio? Yes, there actually is an unincorporated community by that name near Youngstown, not far from the Pennsylvania state line.
But there are a number of truly compelling reasons why one of the state's slogans is, "Center of the Universe." If you're looking for a new home in 2021, here are a dozen fascinating features that make a great case for finding it in Northeast Ohio, Columbus, or Cincinnati.
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Chili is a dish that lends itself to a wide range of ingredients and preparations. But Cincinnati still managed to put itself on the culinary map with a unique version that keeps people coming back for more. More of a sauce than a stew or soup, Cincinnati chili is almost always served on top of hot dogs or spaghetti noodles. Unexpected seasonings such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and chocolate give the chili a Mediterranean flavor. Order it 3-way topped with cheddar cheese, add onions or beans to make it 4-way, or go for the works with 5-way.View this post on Instagram
Cleveland, Columbus, or Cincinnati: which one is the perfect fit for you?

Shopping for the holidays might feel a little different this year, but we're still as excited as ever. As always, one of the great joys of Christmas is finding the perfect gift for each special someone on your list. If you happen to know a few outdoorsy types, you know they can often be some of the hardest people to shop for.
Not to worry! Ohio is home to some truly amazing gear stores and outfitters. Head to one of these great shops to find a great gift for the hiker, skier, cyclist, or fisherman on your holiday shopping list.
25401 Lorain Rd., North Olmsted, OH 44070
Village Ski & Snowboard is your destination for all things winter sports in Northeast Ohio. Founded in 1974, they excel when it comes to offering great winter gear because that's all they do. The store closes in spring after the ski and snowboard season is over, only reopening again in fall. The store is packed with great gear and staffed by genuine ski-and-snowboard experts, so you can rest assured that any purchase you make here will be a good one. They're also running some great holiday sales right now.
60 Kendall Park Rd. Suite A, Peninsula, OH 44264
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If you're a hiking, backpacking, and backcountry camping enthusiast, Appalachian Outfitters is the type of place that will make you feel like a kid in a candy store. And if you happen to be shopping for someone who loves outdoor gear, you'll find just about anything they could possibly want here. From backpacks and tents to hiking boots, clothing, and camp cookware, every bit of equipment you need to make you a happy camper is here.
50 Plaza Dr., Chagrin Falls, OH 44022
Geiger's has been one of Ohio's premier outfitters since 1932, and they have three locations in Northeast Ohio—Cleveland, Lakewood, and Chagrin Falls. You'll find a lot of cool stuff in their stores, but where they really shine is outdoor apparel. This is a great store to find rugged, hard-wearing outdoor-wear that's as stylish as it is functional. The staff is always friendly and knowledgeable, and the selection of merchandise always wide-ranging and unique.
833 Bethel Rd., Columbus, OH 43214
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Named for one of Ohio's great fishing streams, Mad River Outfitters is the go-to destination for fly-fishing gear, tackle, and equipment in the Columbus area. Whether you're shopping for a fly-fishing novice or a seasoned pro, Mad River Outfitters is a perfect place to find them a gift. This store has you covered for all things fishing related, from rods, reels, flies, and line to men's and women's apparel. They even offer fly fishing classes and guided destination trips. If you're unable to make it to the brick-and-mortar store, they offer free shipping on orders over $50 within the U.S.
3980 Easton Station, Columbus, OH 43219
Offering an amazing variety of high-end outdoor gear and apparel, Filson is one of the best places in Columbus to get a gift for the rugged outdoorsman or woman on your holiday shopping list. You won't find anything in this store that isn't of the highest quality. Their Mackinaw Cruiser and Rugged Twill Original Briefcase are classic gifts, but be sure to browse around, as they offer new and unique seasonal offerings every year. At present, the store is open for curbside pickup and limited in-store shopping.
4584 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43214
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Columbus has a reputation as being a great bike-friendly city. As a result, it's also a city with its fair share of excellent bike shops. Even so, Beechwold Bicycles really stands out above the rest. Founded in 2019, they're relative newcomers on the local bike scene, but they've quickly made their reputation by selling only the highest quality bicycles and equipment. Beechwold Bicycles is currently open for in-person shopping—bike shops are considered essential businesses in Ohio—but curbside pickup and delivery are available too.
9525 Kenwood Rd. #24, Cincinnati, OH 45242
Outdoorsy types in the Cincinnati area know that when they want the best hiking, camping, and climbing gear, Benchmark Outdoor Outfitters is the place to go. Offering all the top brands in the outdoor supply world, this is a store that serious adventurers visit when they need to gear up. If you know somebody who loves to climb mountains, ford rivers, and cut new paths through uncharted territory, Benchmark Outdoor Outfitters is the place to find that person a perfect gift.
2708 Erie Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45208
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The Cincinnati sporting community has been getting their gear from Delamere & Hopkins Outfitters for more than 25 years, and it's not hard to see why. Offering an amazing selection of fishing tackle, hunting equipment, outdoor clothing, footwear, artwork, gear, and accessories of all kinds, the store has a cozy mom-and-pop feel. It almost feels like walking into a field guide's house, except everything you see is for sale. Delamere & Hopkins is a great place to find a unique gift for the outdoor fanatic who thinks they have everything.
118 Main St., Milford, OH 45150
Roads Rivers and Trails is one of Cincinnati's premier outdoor outfitters. This family-owned store is managed and staffed by folks who really know what they're talking about. Whether you're in the store to buy a pair of hiking boots, a new tent, backpack, or kayak, there's a good chance the person you buy it from has actually used it. Be sure to call ahead and ask about the store's current COVID-19 policy.
From hiking the Buckeye Trail or fishing Lake Erie to camping in one of Ohio's 83 state parks, this is a great state to call home if you have a passion for the outdoors. Use the comments section to tell us about your favorite Ohio outdoor adventures!