100 Cheap Date Night Ideas

Comments Closed

date night ideas f2dValentine’s Day is coming up and there’s no better time to think about how to add a little romance into your marriage or relationship. It doesn’t need to cost a lot of money to have a night where you are laughing, learning, and growing closer to one another. Here are 100 awesome ideas that won’t break the bank and provide that time you need to strengthen your relationships.

  1. Cooking class
  2. Start a journal together and leave love notes
  3. Play favorite board games
  4. Camp in the living room
  5. Drive to a new location and have a picnic
  6. Visit a new museum
  7. Watch the sun set from a new location
  8. Visit an elderly family member
  9. Go to dinner with another couple
  10. Find a new recipe and cook it together
  11. Play chess in a park
  12. Attend a free outdoor concert
  13. Go stargazing
  14. Couples massage (Look for a deal on Groupon)
  15. Camping in the mountains
  16. Bowling
  17. Go fishing
  18. Find homes near by that have Open Houses and walk through
  19. Midnight bike ride
  20. Fly kites
  21. Drive in movie
  22. Play 1-on-1 Basketball
  23. Selfie time! – Go around town taking selfies in random/unique spots
  24. Go to the local library and research a country you both want to visit
  25. Show & Tell- go through your school year books
  26. Take public transportation to a city near you and go to dinner
  27. Paint a portrait of each other
  28. Go geocaching
  29. Find a new bookstore and browse
  30. Watch a new documentary
  31. Find historical landmarks in your town
  32. Miniature golf
  33. Sing at a karaoke bar
  34. Learn how to sew something together
  35. Attend a high school sporting event or play
  36. Put together a puzzle
  37. Play Frisbee or Frisbee golf
  38. Go bird watching
  39. Attend a matinee movie
  40. Get some 1/2 off late night appetizers
  41. Listen to a new podcast
  42. Watch planes land and take off near an airport
  43. Favorite TV Show marathon
  44. Find a local flea market or sidewalk sale
  45. Read a loud a classic book
  46. Talk about each of your favorite top 10 moments/vacations with each other
  47. Feed ducks at a pond
  48. Play “Would you rather”
  49. Dance party in living room
  50. Go on a double date with your parents
  51. Swimming in a near by pool/lake/ocean
  52. Go on a new hike
  53. Play Tennis
  54. Bake a new dessert
  55. Go to the local zoo
  56. Climb a tree
  57. Walk your dog or a neighbors dog
  58. Take a dance class (check your local community classes- they are a lot cheaper!)
  59. Pretend you are a tourist and head to the city. Grab brochures and learn all about your city.
  60. Exercise together- start training for a race
  61. Attend a comedy or improve show
  62. Video game night competition
  63. BBQ in the backyard
  64. Play truth or dare
  65. Browse a second hand store
  66. Go to a U-pick garden
  67. Clean up your streets by picking up litter
  68. Tackle a house project that you’ve been putting off
  69. Build a snowman or a sand castle
  70. Go on an evening walk together
  71. Make a personalized pizza at home
  72. Walk through your college campus
  73. Make homemade ice cream
  74. Make a campfire and roast marshmallows
  75. Serenade each other with instruments that you each know how to play
  76. Sign up for a mud run or color run
  77. Play a childhood game
  78. Fondue night
  79. Attend a local Opera
  80. Host a dinner party
  81. Write a poem for each other
  82. Walk to dinner
  83. Camp at a state park
  84. Learn a magic trick together
  85. Volunteer at a local school
  86. Progressive dinner (start at a restaurant, then a friends, then your home)
  87. Go to a gun range
  88. Lay in a hammock together
  89. Play monopoly
  90. Taste test a variety of chocolate (blind fold and see if you know!)
  91. Go to a local pet store
  92. Wash your cars
  93. At-home spa night
  94. Have a cook off (each of you create a new dish and enjoy each others masterpieces)
  95. Enjoy favorite drinks on the patio or deck
  96. Make a relationship time capsule
  97. Test drive your dream car
  98. Dress up and make your own photo shoot
  99. Make sushi together
    100. Exchange a scalp and back massage

What other date night ideas do you have to add to this list?

Super Easy Banana Bread Recipe

Comments Closed

banana breadsMy kids absolutely love banana bread. I even put it in their school lunches to switch up the sandwich ritual I seem to have going on. It seems like I am always buying bananas and sometimes we don’t go through them as quickly as I like. So they turn brown and then what do I do with them? I either put them in the freezer or make a batch of this bread. This recipe is super easy and yummy. So the next time you have bananas that are turning a little brown, try this out!

Ingredients

1/2 Cup Shortening or Butter
1 Cup Sugar
2 Beaten Eggs
3 Ripe Bananas
2 1/2 Cup Flour
1 tsp Baking Soda
Pinch of Salt
1 tsp Baking Powder
1/2 Cup Water

Directions

1. Cream together shortening and sugar
2. Add in beaten eggs and ripe bananas then beat with beater
3. Add flour, baking soda, salt, baking powder, and water
4. Mix all together really well
5. Grease and flour 2 bread pans- divide mixture and put into pans
6. Bake at 350 degrees for about 50-60 minutes.
**Test if it’s done by sticking a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean it’s done.**

Top 10 Fitness Trends for 2017

Comments Closed

fitness trends f2dHave you made a 2017 goal involving fitness? If so, you’re definitely not alone. Eating healthy and losing weight are goals that most of us have when starting out a new year. You may have started an exercise routine but quickly find yourself becoming bored with it. If you need a change, these trends could help you out. Each year there are new ways to help us get motivated to exercise and become fit. So what are the fitness trends for 2017? A few of these might surprise you.

  1. Wearable Technology- You’ll notice friends and family buying fitness trackers to help out with fitness and eating habits. This could also be a motivational help. Plus, fitness tracker sales are going up. We are buying them.
  2. Body Weight Training– No equipment needed. Doing the basic training of push ups, squats, sit ups and more.
  3. Dance Cardio- Dancing and moving to popular music is a great way to exercise. Classes are popping up around the nation with this fun option.
  4. HIIT (High Intensity Interval Training)– Short bursts or exercise at maximum heart rate. This will help you burn off those calories in a shorter amount of time.
  5. Strength Training– Science backs up strengthening your muscles will help with back pain and more.
  6. Live Stream Classes- Fitness studios are starting to do live stream classes that you can do in the comforts of your own home. Have you tried this yet? Cycling, yoga and toning are a few classes you will be able to find live stream.
  7. Group Training– Grab friends and family and start training together. This helps build accountability and often times helps you continue exercising for a longer time.
  8. Exercise Apps- There’s an app for that…right?  There are plenty of apps to help document your running or eating habits. More and more apps will become available and they definitely won’t be going away.
  9. Yoga– It’s not for the old anymore. Tune your mind to your body and increase flexibility.
  10. Exercise & Weight Lose– You need to back up all your exercising with good nutrition. If you are missing one or the other, you won’t see your goals reached as easily.

Are you doing any of these trends already? If not, it’s a great time to give one of these a try.

Amazon to Create 100,000 New, Full-time, Full-benefit Jobs Across the U.S. over the Next 18 Months!

Comments Closed

amazonjobsAmazon is one of the country’s biggest employers. Now they have announced they will be adding 100,000 full time, full benefit jobs across the U.S. over the next 18 months! This means they will grow their workforce of 180,000 in 2016 to over 280,000 by mid-2018. What does this mean for you?

These new jobs are for people all over the country and with all types of experience, education and skills. They will have engineers, entry level positions, on-the-job training as well as software developers and many more options. This just might be the job you have been looking for.

Many of the jobs are in the new fulfillment centers that have been announced  and are currently under construction in Texas, California, Florida, New Jersey and many other states across the country. “Innovation is one of our guiding principles at Amazon, and it’s created hundreds of thousands of American jobs. These jobs are not just in our Seattle headquarters or in Silicon Valley—they’re in our customer service network, fulfillment centers and other facilities in local communities throughout the country,” said Jeff Bezos, Amazon Founder and CEO. “We plan to add another 100,000 new Amazonians across the company over the next 18 months as we open new fulfillment centers, and continue to invent in areas like cloud technology, machine learning, and advanced logistics.”

Amazon is highly competitive in their pay, health insurance, disability insurance, retirement savings plans and company stock. They also offer up to 20 weeks of paid leave and innovative benefits such as Leave Share and Ramp Back. One cool thing about their health insurance is that they are the same benefits for everyone- same for customer service employees up to their senior executives.

To learn more about working at Amazon, you can check out their site here. More and more jobs will be added as they continue to grow around the country.

Macy’s Closing 68 Stores & Sears Closing 150 Kmart/Sears Stores Nationwide. Are Any Near You?

Comments Closed

stores-closingStores have been closing left and right- Aeropostale, JCPenney’s, Sport’s Authority. Have you heard the news? In 2017, Macy’s and Sears will both close down a good portion of their stores. Sears will be closing down a total of 150 stores with 108 Kmart stores and 42 Sears stores by April. Macy’s will be closing 68 more stores out of the current 730 stores. Both of these stores are nationwide and there is a good chance it will affect you. If your store is listed below, be on the look out for some really great going out of business sales and prices. Here is the list of stores that will be closing:

Macy’s Stores that will be closing in 2017:

  • Mission Valley Apparel, San Diego, CA (385,000 square feet; opened in 1961; 140 associates);
  • Paseo Nuevo, Santa Barbara, CA (141,000 square feet; opened in 1990; 77 associates);
  • Lakeland Square, Lakeland, FL (101,000 square feet; opened in 1995; 68 associates);
  • Oviedo Marketplace, Oviedo, FL (195,000 square feet; opened in 2000; 83 associates);
  • Sarasota Square, Sarasota, FL (143,000 square feet; opened in 1977; 86 associates);
  • University Square, Tampa, FL (140,000 square feet; opened in 1974; 73 associates);
  • CityPlace, West Palm Beach, FL (108,000 square feet; opened in 2000; 72 associates);
  • Georgia Square, Athens, GA (121,000 square feet; opened in 1981; 69 associates);
  • Nampa Gateway Center, Nampa, ID (104,000, square feet; opened in 2009; 57 associates);
  • Alton Square, Alton, IL (180,000 square feet; opened in 1978; 54 associates);
  • Stratford Square, Bloomingdale, IL (149,000 square feet; opened in 1981; 87 associates);
  • Eastland, Bloomington, IL (154,000 square feet; opened in 1999; 55 associates);
  • Jefferson, Louisville, KY (157,000 square feet; opened in 1979; 52 associates);
  • Esplanade, Kenner, LA (188,000 square feet; opened in 2008; 101 associates);
  • Bangor, Bangor, ME (143,000 square feet; opened in 1998; 65 associates);
  • Westgate, Brockton, MA (144,000 square feet; opened in 2003; 79 associates);
  • Silver City Galleria, Taunton, MA (152,000 square feet; opened in 1992; 82 associates);
  • Lakeview Square Mall, Battle Creek, MI (102,000 square feet: opened 1983; 51 associates);
  • Eastland Center, Harper Woods, MI (433,000 square feet; opened in 1957; 121 associates);
  • Lansing, Lansing, MI (103,000 square feet; opened in 1979; 57 associates);
  • Westland, Westland, MI (334,000 square feet; opened in 1965; 106 associates);
  • Minneapolis Downtown, Minneapolis, MN (1,276,000 square feet; opened in 1902; 280 associates);
  • Northgate, Durham, NC (187,000 square feet; opened in 1994; 72 associates);
  • Columbia, Grand Forks, ND (99,000 square feet; opened in 1978; 53 associates);
  • Moorestown, Moorestown, NJ (200,000 square feet; opened in 1999; 107 associates);
  • Voorhees Town Center, Voorhees, NJ (224,000 square feet; opened in 1970; 77 associates);
  • Preakness, Wayne, NJ (81,000 square feet; opened in 1963; 72 associates);
  • Cottonwood, Albuquerque, NM (173,000 square feet; opened in 1996; 56 associates);
  • Las Vegas Boulevard, Las Vegas, NV (178,000 square feet; opened in 1966; 84 associates);
  • Great Northern, Clay, NY (88,000 square feet; opened in 1989; 55 associates);
  • Oakdale Mall, Johnson City, NY (140,000 square feet; opened in 2000; 58 associates);
  • The Marketplace, Rochester, NY (149,000 square feet; opened in 1982; 77 associates);
  • Eastland, Columbus, OH (121,000 square feet; opened in 2006; 73 associates);
  • Sandusky, Sandusky, OH (133,000 square feet; opened in 1979; 61 associates);
  • Fort Steuben, Steubenville, OH (132,000 square feet; opened in 1974; 59 associates);
  • Promenade, Tulsa, OK (180,000 square feet; opened in 1996; 58 associates);
  • Neshaminy, Bensalem, PA (211,000 square feet; opened in 1968; 89 associates);
  • Shenango Valley, Hermitage, PA (106,000 square feet; opened in 1976; 69 associates);
  • Beaver Valley, Monaca, PA (203,000 square feet; opened in 1987; 78 associates);
  • Lycoming, Muncy, PA (120,000 square feet; opened in 1995; 61 associates);
  • Plymouth Meeting, Plymouth Meeting, PA (214,000 square feet; opened in 1966; 74 associates);
  • Washington Crown Center, Washington, PA (148,000 square feet; opened in 1999; 67 associates);
  • Parkdale, Beaumont, TX (171,000 square feet; opened in 2002; 67 associates);
  • Southwest Center, Dallas, TX (148,000 square feet; opened in 1975; 68 associates);
  • Sunland Park, El Paso, TX (105,000 square feet; opened in 2004; 71 associates);
  • Greenspoint, Houston, TX (314,000 square feet; opened in 1976; 70 associates);
  • West Oaks Mall, Houston, TX (244,000 square feet; opened in 1982; 135 associates);
  • Pasadena Town Square, Pasadena, TX (209,000 square feet; opened in 1962; 78 associates);
  • Collin Creek, Plano, TX (199,000 square feet; opened in 1980; 103 associates);
  • Broadway Square, Tyler, TX (100,000 square feet; opened in 1981; 65 associates);
  • Layton Hills, Layton, UT (162,000 square feet; opened in 1980; 72 associates);
  • Cottonwood, Salt Lake City, UT (200,000 square feet; opened in 1962; 88 associates);
  • Landmark, Alexandria, VA (201,000 square feet; opened in 1965; 119 associates);
  • River Ridge, Lynchburg, VA (144,000 square feet; opened in 1980; 60 associates);
  • Everett, Everett, WA (133,000 square feet; opened in 1977; 109 associates);
  • Three Rivers, Kelso, WA (51,000 square feet; opened in 1987; 57 associates);
  • Valley View, La Crosse, WI (101,000 square feet; opened in 1980; 57 associates)
  • Simi Valley Town Center (men’s/home/kids), Simi Valley, CA (190,000 square feet; opened in 2006; 105 associates);
  • Mall at Tuttle Crossing (furniture/home/kids/men’s), Dublin, OH (227,000 square feet; opened in 2003; 52 associates)

Sears/Kmart Stores that will be closing in 2017

  • Jasper Mall, Jasper, Alabama
  • 2003 US-280, Phenix City, Alabama
  • 3600 Wilson Road, Bakersfield, California
  • 3001 Iowa Ave., Riverside, California
  • 25 West Polk St., Coalinga, California
  • 333 Sierra St., Kingsburg, California
  • 363 S. Broadway, Denver, Colorado
  • 2809 North Ave., Grand Junction, Colorado
  • 45 Shunpike Road, Cromwell, Connecticut
  • 1801 NW US Highway 19, Crystal River, Florida
  • 501 N. Beneva Road, Sarasota, Florida
  • 19400 Cochran Blvd., Port Charlotte, Florida
  • 2111 S. Federal Highway, Ft. Pierce, Florida
  • 1501 Normandy Village Parkway, Jacksonville, Florida
  • 2211 W. Irlo Bronson Memorial Highway, Kissimmee, Florida
  • 4955 Golden Gate Parkway, Naples, Florida
  • 111 Town and Country Drive, Palatka, Florida
  • McGregor Point Shopping Center, Fort Myers, Florida
  • 33 W. Montgomery Cross Road, Savannah, Georgia
  • 3200 Macon Road, Columbus, Georgia
  • 365 Habersham Village Circle, Cornelia, Georgia
  • 1601 Highway 40 East, Kingsland, Georgia
  • 4561 Salt Lake Blvd., Honolulu, Hawaii
  • 2600 Dodge St., Dubuque, Iowa
  • 5700 Gordon Drive, Sioux City, Iowa
  • 3810 University Ave., Waterloo, Iowa
  • 2851 Belt Line Parkway, Alton, Illinois
  • 3655 Nameoki Road, Granite City, Illinois
  • 750 Indian Boundary Road, Chesterton, Indiana
  • 1460 West State Road 2, La Porte, Indiana
  • 4820 S. 4th St., Leavenworth, Kansas
  • 4200 W. Kellogg Dr., Wichita, Kansas
  • 191 Outer Loop, Louisville, Kentucky
  • 2815 West Parrish Ave., Owensboro, Kentucky
  • 1501 Paris Pike, Georgetown, Kentucky
  • 14662 N. US Highway 25 East, Corbin, Kentucky
  • 1710 W. Highway 192, London, Kentucky
  • 3010 Fort Campbell Blvd., Hopkinsville, Kentucky
  • 2945 Scottsville Road, Bowling Green, Kentucky
  • 115 South Airline Highway, Gonzales, Lousiana
  • 1400 S. Clearview Parkway, New Orleans, Louisiana
  • 688 Hogan Road, Bangor, Maine
  • 222 North Point Blvd., Baltimore, Maryland
  • 1130 Newport Ave., South Attleboro, Massachusetts
  • 9 Plaza Way, Fairhaven, Massachusetts
  • 29600 Ford Road, Garden City, Michigan
  • 3555 O’Neill Drive, Jackson, Michigan
  • 1396 South Main St., Adrian, Michigan
  • 5400 S. Cedar St., Lansing, Michigan
  • 1501 E. Apple Ave., Muskegon, Michigan
  • 40855 Ann Arbor Road, Plymouth, Michigan
  • 17580 Frazho Road, Roseville, Michigan
  • 3541 Highland Road, Waterford, Michigan
  • 165 Wayne Road, Westland, Michigan
  • 6455 US 31 North, Acme Township, Michigan
  • 1305 Highway 10 West, Detroit Lakes, Minnesota
  • 1477 State Highway 248, Branson, Missouri
  • 2304 Missouri Blvd., Jefferson City, Missouri
  • 1003 S. Bishop Ave., Rolla, Missouri
  • 3101 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, Missouri
  • 6650 Manchester Ave., St Louis, Missouri
  • Rio Mall, Rio Grande, New Jersey
  • 1468 Clementon Road, Clementon, New Jersey
  • 645 Highway 18, East Brunswick, New Jersey
  • 800 Black Horse Pike, Pleasantville, New Jersey
  • 4645 Commercial Drive, New Hartford, New York
  • 10405 S. Eastern Ave., Henderson, Nevada
  • 545 Concord Parkway North, Concord, North Carolina
  • 1931 Skibo Road, Fayetteville, North Carolina
  • 201 N. Berkeley Blvd., Goldsboro, North Carolina
  • 102 New Market, Madison, North Carolina
  • 815 S. College Road, Wilmington, North Carolina
  • 1500 Coshocton Ave., Mount Vernon, Ohio
  • 185 Upper River Road, Gallipolis, Ohio
  • 1005 East Columbus St., Kenton, Ohio
  • 225 West Avenue, New Boston, Ohio
  • I-70 & Mall Road, St. Clairsville, Ohio
  • 3515 N. Maple Ave., Zanesville, Ohio
  • 1284 Brice Road, Reynoldsburg, Ohio
  • 4 East Shawnee St., Muskogee, Oklahoma
  • 5820 Shaffer Road, Dubois, Pennsylvania
  • 1320 E. Grandview Blvd., Erie, Pennsylvania
  • 1890 Fruitville Pike, Lancaster, Pennsylvania
  • 5600 Carlisle Pike US 11, Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania
  • 120 Mall Blvd., Monroeville, Pennsylvania
  • 100 Crossroads Plaza, Mt. Pleasant, Pennsylvania
  • 3801 Clemson Blvd., Anderson, South Carolina
  • 254 Highway 72 Bypass, Greenwood, South Carolina
  • 8571 Rivers Ave., North Charleston, South Carolina
  • 3020 W. 12th St., Sioux Falls , South Dakota
  • 305 W. Economy Road, Morristown, Tennessee
  • 1120 McRae Blvd., El Paso, Texas
  • 9484 Dyer St., El Paso, Texas
  • 1101 Fort Hood St., Killeen, Texas
  • 3061 S. John Redditt Drive, Lufkin, Texas
  • 1153 W. Highway 40, Vernal, Utah
  • 2010 N. Main St., Layton, Utah
  • 1419 Hershberger Road NW, Roanoke, Virginia
  • 3655 Plank Road, Fredericksburg, Virginia
  • 6101 N. Military Highway, Norfolk, Virginia
  • 1355 West Main St., Salem, Virginia
  • 5132 Sixth Ave., Tacoma, Washington
  • 250 Three Springs Drive, Weirton, West Virginia
  • 731 Beverly Pike, Elkins, West Virginia
  • 1050 Division St., Parkersburg, West Virginia
  • 1425 E. Highway 151, Platteville, Wisconsin
  • 2211 S. Green Bay Road, Racine, Wisconsin
  • 1840 Dell Range Blvd., Cheyenne, Wyoming

What do you think about this news? 

7 Tips & Tricks to Beat the Winter Blues

Comments Closed

f2dwinterIt’s Winter time, which can be hard on a lot of people. Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a type of depression related to changes in seasons. A lot of people can experience this during the winter months. You may find yourself a little more tired or moody. I’ve learned that you really can enjoy this season. It does require a little extra work, but it’s definitely worth it. Here are 7 tips & tricks that might just help you beat the winter blues.

Learn Something New. When your body and mind are put to work, it helps you feel like you have accomplished something. Think of a hobby or sport that you have wanted to get into but just haven’t done it yet. Now is the time to do it. You can start by signing up for a class and actually learn how to do your hobby the right way. Or, ask a friend or neighbor who knows how to do it and have them teach you. Some examples could include: swimming, skiing/snowboarding, playing the piano, guitar or other musical instrument, decorating cookies and cakes, sewing or an exercise class. Whatever it is, put your body and mind to work and do it!

Get Outside. The first thing we think of when we see the snow or rain falling outside is how much we want to stay in our pjs and lounge around inside all day. This could be fine for a day or so, but when you do this consecutively over the winter, depression could set in. Get outside no matter the weather. If it’s just for a walk to the mailbox and then around the block, that’s fine. Getting outside gives you the fresh air that you are craving but just don’t know it while you are inside. Another idea is plan a drive through the mountains or other scenic drives. Stop every once in awhile and step outside to breath in the fresh air. We all need it and it feels so good.

Serve Others. When we forget about ourselves and think of others, our moodiness suddenly disappears. We are focusing our thoughts and energy onto someone else. You will probably also notice that other people have struggles too and sometimes they are far worse than your own. Look around in your neighborhood and community. Where could you volunteer your time and talents? Who is sad and lonely? Even a nice homemade cooked meal for someone who is struggling is a big thing. If you can’t volunteer on a regular basis. Try making a goal for once a week to help someone in need. This will direct your focus outwards instead of keeping it on yourself.

Exercise. You hear it all the time, right? You need to exercise. It’s so true though. Exercise can be different for a lot of people. Taking a walk with friends around the neighborhood, or signing up for the swim class you’ve wanted to. There are many ways to exercise and you will definitely feel a difference in the way your body feels. If you’re like me and you are a social exerciser, grab your friends and plan a set day of the week that you will exercise. Then stick to it! The feel of peer pressure is so good to get you going!

Get Ready for the Day. You might be thinking… what?? This one might sound funny but it helps me so much. I have a rule that every morning I have to take a shower and get my hair and makeup ready for the day. I find that the days I stay in the comfy clothes and don’t shower, I tend to lounge around the house, I’m more tired, and I tend to get snappy at the kids. When I’m actually dressed and feel good about myself, my day goes a lot better. Plus, then I’m not running in my room to get dressed the second the doorbell rings! We’ve all been there right!? ?

Be Social. We all need friends…especially women. We need to talk and eat…talk and eat. It’s just in our nature. So why is it when the colder seasons come along, we suddenly stop getting together with our friends? It doesn’t have to be that way. Plan lunches with your friends, go to a museum, hit the mall and let the kids play in the play area, start a book club, or just take turns hosting a get together. You may have to put more energy into actually going, but once you are there, you will notice how much you crave that friendship and conversation.

Plan a Vacation/Have Something to Look Forward to. I’m a planner, I need it. I love looking at the new year and thinking of all we can do and explore. It gets me excited. We all need that feeling of something to look forward to. So, if you don’t have any trips, outings, dates, or adventures planned yet, get going. Look into a new camping spot for the summer, or a winter wonderland you can go visit now.  It doesn’t need to be big, it just needs to make you happy and give you a change in your everyday routine.

Hopefully these suggestions will help you feel motivated and ready to beat the winter blues. What do you think?
Do you have any other suggestions to add to these?

New Years Eve Family Friendly Party Ideas

Comments Closed

family-friendly-party-ideasNew Years Eve can be a little tricky with kids. There comes a point during the night when they get grouchy and super tired. So staying up until midnight just might not be doable for you at this time. However, you can still party it up until you are ready to put the kids to bed. Here are a few suggestions to make your New Years Eve awesome with the entire family.

Celebrate the New Year Early. If kids are really young you can just tell them it’s time to ring in the New Year at what ever time you want. If they are a little older, you may want to set your clocks ahead a few hours so they can get the whole feeling. If you have Netflix, you can even get a New Years Eve Countdown and show that whenever you are ready to end the night. Just search New Years Eve Countdown and your choices will show up. So fun!

Reverse Charades. Have you played this game? You can download the app here. It’s FREE and so much fun. Basically it’s like Charades but one person is guessing and the rest of the group is acting it out. It can be pretty funny. We split up into teams, making it even with younger and older kids. Get ready for some laughs!

Fireworks or poppers. Who doesn’t love some good fireworks? This is a fun excuse to grab a few fireworks and enjoy the lights. If you don’t want to do the full fireworks show, just buy a few snaps/poppers and have a smaller show.

Have unique snacks and drinks. To set this night apart from the rest get some yummy, unique snacks and drinks. We love getting out our fondue fountain and also making Italian sodas. We don’t do those often, so the kids look forward to these occasions.

Karaoke/Dance party. While ringing in the new year, you need some music. If you have a Karaoke machine that would be even better. But never fear, if you don’t, just grab a wooden spoon and you are set! Turn the music up and have some fun. You can even make a playlist ahead of time of 2016 best hits. You can also get a few favorite songs from each person. That way when their favorite comes on they will be excited.

Slumber party. Put on your pjs, grab your pillows and blankets and get a fun movie to watch together. You can even make a blanket fort and watch it from there.

Make a 2016 Family Time Capsule. You can do this in many ways. One way would be to actually get items that represent what you have done and accomplished this past year. A more simple way, would be getting a big piece of butcher paper and make a big picture of those things you have done this past year. This is a fun time to talk together as a family and reminisce on those vacations, team sports, and other things that have been achieved this past year.

 What do you do on New Years Eve that is awesome? Comment below and let us hear your ideas!

Super Easy Cake Mix Cookies- Perfect for Santa’s Christmas Eve Cookies

Comments Closed

cake-mix-cookiesI love making cookies, especially at this time of year. I turn on a little Christmas music and get baking. I had to share with you one of my most favorite cookie recipes. These cake mix cookies are AWESOME. What makes them awesome? They are fool proof. Seriously. It requires little ingredients, not a lot of time, and they turn out great! You can also make them with a variety of cake mixes and add in different candies, chips and sprinkles. YUM! Kids can even help with this recipe. I like to have them help me with these cookies for Christmas Eve. Then we leave a few out for Santa. I hope you enjoy these as much as our family does.

Ingredients:
1 Package Dry Cake Mix of your choice
1/3 Cup Oil
2 Eggs

Directions:
Mix all ingredients together well with a fork or spoon. Roll balls into 1-1 1/2 inch balls. Place on a greased cookie sheet. Bake at 350 for 10 minutes. Don’t over bake. Once they start to crack on top they are done!

**You can mix and match cake mixes and add ins. Try making a Devils Food Cake Mix with Mint Chocolate Chips. Or, get a Cake Batter Cake mix and add in sprinkles. You can also get a Chocolate Cake mix and add in crushed peanut butter cups. There are so many different ways to make these and they are always yummy!

How to Make Body Scrub for Cheap- Help Your Dry, Cracked Skin Become Smooth! Fun Gift Idea Too!

Comments Closed

body-scrubsDo you every notice your skin becoming dry and cracked during these cold winter months? I love using body and foot scrub to help smooth and moisturize my skin. But it can become expensive when you keep buying them from the store. I discovered that it’s super simple to make your own body scrub and it’s cheap! You could even put a bow on these and make them into super cute presents for friends and neighbors.  A lot of the items you may already have in your home. Here’s how to make it:

 

Ingredients: 
2 Cups Sugar
1/4 Cup Baby Oil
1/4 Cup Favorite Liquid Soap (I used Bath & Body Works Deep Cleansing Hand Soap)

Directions:
Pour all ingredients into a bowl and mix together. Mix well until well combined. That’s it! Then you can put as much as you want into smaller containers and give them away.

Ultimate List of Stocking Stuffers for the Whole Family!

Comments Closed

stocking-stuffersWe only have a few more weeks until Christmas, can you believe it? You may have a good headway on your present list, but what about your stocking stuffers? You may not have a lot of extra money to throw around when you get to stockings. Stockings can get a little tricky, but never fear… here is a nice list of ideas that you can grab for each person in your family. Most are super cheap as well.

A good place to find most of these items is your local dollar store. If you want to shop from home for these items you can always use Amazon, Target and Walmart. These stores have competitive prices and you can get them shipped right to your home!

Stocking Stuffers for Dad

  1. Deck of Cards
  2. Hand Warmers/Feet Warmers
  3. Gum/Tic Tacs
  4. Deodorant/Body Spray
  5. Sunglasses
  6. Drill Bits
  7. Mini Flash Lights
  8. Gift Cards- Home Depot, Movie Theaters
  9. Socks
  10. Tie/Bow Tie
  11. Tie Clip
  12. Texting gloves
  13. Hair Gel
  14. Razor & Shaving Cream
  15. Pocket Knife

Stocking Stuffers for Mom

  1. Hand Lotion
  2. Lip Balm/Lipstick
  3. Gift Cards- Spa, Restaurants
  4. Nail Polish
  5. Favorite Candy/Chocolate
  6. Nylons/Tights
  7. Jewelry- Earrings, Necklace, Bracelet or Rings
  8. Tide Stain Sticks
  9. Makeup
  10. Texting Gloves
  11. Beanie
  12. Perfume
  13. Dry Shampoo or Hair spray (Trial Size to fit)
  14. Scarf
  15. Makeup Remover Wipes

Stocking Stuffers for Teen Boys

  1. Mini Cereal Box
  2. iTunes Gift Card
  3. Body Spray/Deodorant
  4. Hair Gel
  5. Key Chain
  6. $1.00 bills
  7. Tie/Bow Tie
  8. Pencils/Pens
  9. Texting Gloves
  10. Beanie/Hat
  11. Favorite Soda
  12. Card Games
  13. Favorite Candy
  14. Car Air Freshener
  15. Phone Case

Stocking Stuffers for Teen Girls

  1. Chapstick
  2. Texting Gloves
  3. Hair Spray/ Hair Gel
  4. Jewelry- Necklaces, Earrings, Bracelets or Rings
  5. Cute Socks
  6. iTunes Gift Card
  7. Mini Cereal Box
  8. Perfume
  9. Magnets for lockers
  10. Glitter Pens
  11. Beanies/Hats
  12. $1.00 Bills
  13. Key Chains
  14. Favorite Candy
  15. Favorite Soda

Stocking Stuffers for Boys

  1. LED Glow Sticks
  2. Favorite Candy
  3. Hot wheels Cars
  4. Slinky
  5. Life Saver Story Books
  6. Tie/Bow Tie
  7. Electric Toothbrush
  8. Tsum Tsum
  9. Homemade Gift Cards- (“Stay up Late”, “No Chore Day”, “Out to Lunch”)
  10. Bath Color drops
  11. Bubbles
  12. Crayons
  13. Favorite Soda
  14. Character Gloves
  15. Mini Cereal Box

Stocking Stuffers for Girls

  1. Life Saver Story Books
  2. Electric Toothbrush
  3. Tsum Tsum
  4. Homemade Gift Cards- (“Stay up Late”, “No Chore Day”, “Out to Lunch”)
  5. Character Gloves
  6. Favorite Soda
  7. Glitter Pens
  8. Chapstick
  9. Stickers
  10. Small purse
  11. Favorite Candy
  12. Hair Bows/Headbands
  13. Tights/Leggings
  14. Crayons
  15. Bubbles

Stocking Stuffers for Babies/Toddlers

  1. Tsum Tsum
  2. Bubbles
  3. Teething Toys
  4. Gerber Puffs
  5. Baby Food
  6. Mini Books
  7. Hair bows
  8. Soft mini blanket
  9. Bibs or Burp clothes
  10. Rattles/Small toys
  11. Hats & Gloves
  12. Shoes
  13. Fun Socks
  14. Plush Toys
  15. Finger Puppets

Stocking Stuffers for Dogs or Cats

  1. Chew Toys
  2. Leash/Collar
  3. Teasers for cats
  4. Treats
  5. Holiday bows
  6. Tennis Balls
  7. Sweaters
  8. Stuffed Animals
  9. Dog shoes
  10. Grooming Supplies

 

 I hope this list will help you out and give you a few ideas of what you can add to your stockings. Do you have any other favorites? Comment and let us know!

25 Fun & Simple Activities to Add to Your Christmas Advent Calendar

Comments Closed

advent-calendar-picDo you have a Christmas Advent Calendar? We do, and my kids absolutely love it. As soon as they wake up, they head straight to the calendar to see what’s inside. Each day holds a piece of paper with either a service idea or an activity that we will do on that day. It’s a fun way to get the kids in the Christmas spirit. If you don’t have an Advent Calendar, no worries! Just grab a Santa hat or stocking and write up these 25 different activities. Then each morning have the kids take turns and draw one out. Here are 25 ideas that are super simple, yet fun. Hopefully these will help you out!

  1. Read a Christmas book and snuggle.
  2. Make Christmas cards for grandparents and send it in the mail (Even if they live close by!).
  3. Learn a new Christmas carol and sing it to a neighbor.
  4. Make hot chocolate and sit next to the Christmas tree. Share your favorite Christmas memories.
  5. Make and decorate gingerbread houses.
  6. Find a local Assisted Living Center near you and visit older folks. You can even prepare songs to sing or bring a small gift.
  7. Get in your pajamas and go for a Christmas Lights Drive.
  8. Write a letter to Santa (You may even have a place where they take Santa’s letters near you- if so, drop them off).
  9. Christmas craft day (homemade ornaments, finger paint snowmen, paint a star- add glitter).
  10. Invite friends, find a new hill and go sledding/tubing.
  11. Attend a local Sing Along event.
  12. Earn money by doing chores or service and go on a Salvation Army hunt. Go find a Salvation Army bell ringer at your local stores and drop your money inside.
  13. Make paper snowflakes then hang them around your home.
  14. Make popcorn and watch your favorite Christmas movie.
  15. Draw names and write a kind note to that person. Put them in the stockings for Christmas morning.
  16. Invite a few families over and have a snowball fight (You can make forts and get into teams as well).
  17. Make a Christmas countdown paper chain.
  18. Host a Cookie Swap- Invite friends who each bring a dozen cookies and the recipe. Then swap cookies so you have some of each.
  19. Make a playlist with your favorite Christmas songs, wear Santa hats or ugly sweaters and have a dance party.
  20. Give to a charity- Angel Tree or other organizations you may have near by.
  21. Shop for a new Christmas ornament that represents your year.
  22. Take a family picture with ugly holiday sweaters and hats.
  23. Call or Skype with family members that live far away and sing Christmas carols to them.
  24. Be a Secret Elf- find a way to serve each member in your family without getting caught.
  25. Read the story of Christmas – Luke 2: 1-20.

 

Do you have any other fun activities for Advent Calendars? Please comment below. I would love to add them to my Calendar this year!

Freeform: 25 Days of FREE Christmas Movies Starts December 1st! Here is the Complete List

Comments Closed

moviesOne of my absolute favorite things to do around Christmas time is get in my comfy pajamas, snuggle up with a soft blanket, and watch a Christmas movie with my family….and lets not forget the hot chocolate. To make that night even better would be getting a FREE Christmas movie that we can all watch. Well, we are all in luck. Freeform (formally ABC Family) is starting their 25 Days of Christmas movies on December 1st.  This runs through Christmas day and is packed of fun movies the whole family will enjoy. You can also download the Freeform app right here for free. Enjoy this full list:

December 1:

3:30 Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory
6:00 The Year Without a Santa Clause
7:05 National Lampoon’s Vacation
9:15 The Santa Claus
11:20 The Nightmare Before Christmas

December 2:

12:55am Rudolph’s Shiny New Year
11am Jack Frost
12pm Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory
2:30pm The Year Without a Santa Claus
3:35pm Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas
5:10pm Disney’s A Christmas Carol
7:15pm The Santa Clause
9:20pm The Polar Express
11:25pm Charlie and the Chocolate Factory

December 3:

7am Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmas
10am Richie Rich’s Christmas Wish
12pm Disney’s A Christmas Carol
2:05pm Charlie and the Chocolate Factory
4:40pm The Polar Express
6:45pm Arthur Christmas
8:50pm Elf
10:55pm The Holiday

December 4:

7am ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas
7:30am Nestor, the Long-Eared Christmas Donkey
8am Richie Rich’s Christmas Wish
10:05am Rudolph & Frosty’s Christmas in July
12:10pm I’ll Be Home for Christmas
2:20pm Arthur Christmas
4:30pm Santa Claus Is Comin’ to Town
5:35pm The Year Without a Santa Claus
6:40pm Elf
8:45pm National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation
10:55pm Santa Claus Is Comin’ to Town

December 5:

4pm The Year Without a Santa Claus
5pm Jingle All the Way
7pm National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation
9pm Scrooged

December 6:

12am Snowglobe
5pm Scrooged
7pm The Polar Express
9pm The Santa Clause

December 7:

5pm The Polar Express
7pm The Santa Clause
Elf 9pm

December 8:

12am 12 Dates of Christmas
3pm Holiday Joy
5pm Deck the Halls
7pm Elf
9am Disney’s A Christmas Carol

December 9:

12am Holiday in Handcuffs
11am Frosty’s Winter Wonderland
11:30am Holiday Joy
1:30pm Home Alone 3
3:35pm Santa Buddies: The Legend of Santa Paws
5:40pm The Search for Santa Paws
7:45pm Santa Paws 2: The Santa Pups
9:50pm Snow Buddies
11:55pm Rudolph & Frosty’s Christmas in July

December 10:

7 am Mickey’s Christmas Carol
7:30 am Santa Buddies: The Legend of Santa Paws
9:30 am The Search for Santa Paws
11:35 am Santa Paws 2: The Santa Pups
1:40 pm Snow Buddies
3:45 pm Toy Story
5:45 pm Toy Story 2
7:50 pm Toy Story 3
10:20 pm Toy Story That Time Forgot
10:50 pm Arthur Christmas
12:55 am The Year Without a Santa Claus

December 11:

7am The Little Drummer Boy
7:30 am Home Alone: The Holiday Heist
9:35 am A Dennis the Menace Christmas
11:40 am The Year Without a Santa Claus
12:45 pm Arthur Christmas
2:50 pm Toy Story
4:50 pm Toy Story 2
6:55 pm Toy Story 3
9:25 pm Toy Story That Time Forgot
9:55 pm Polar Express

December 12:

5:30 pm Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas
7 pm The Polar Express
9 pm Elf
12 am Christmas Cupid

December 13

3 pm Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas
4:30 pm Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory
7 pm Elf
9 pm National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation
12 am Three Day

December 14

3 pm Home Alone 3
5 pm National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation
7 pm Arthur Christmas
9 pm The Santa Clause
12 am Santa Baby

December 15:

7:30 am Holiday Joy
11 am Snow Buddies
1 pm Home Alone 3
3 pm A Dennis the Menace Christmas
5 pm Arthur Christmas
7 pm The Santa Clause
9 pm The Search for Santa Paws
12 am Santa Baby 2: Christmas Maybe

December 16:

7 am A Dennis the Menace Christmas
9:10 am Jack Frost
11:15 am The Search for Santa Paws
1:20 pm Santa Paws 2: The Santa Pups
3:25 pm Home Alone: The Holiday Heist
5:30 pm Jingle All The Way
7:35 pm National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation
9:45 pm The Polar Express
11:55 pm Disney’s A Christmas Carol

December 17:

7 am Rudolph’s Shiny New Year
8 am Nestor, The Long-Eared Christmas Donkey
8:30 am Jingle All The Way
10:30 am Happy Feet
1 pm Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas
2:35 pm The Polar Express
4:40 pm National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation
6:50 pm Santa Clause
9 pm Frozen
11:30 pm Charlie and the Chocolate Factory

December 18:

7 am Happy Feet
9:30 am Richie Rich’s Christmas Wish
11:30 am Mickey’s Christmas Carol
12 pm Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas
1:35 pm Charlie and the Chocolate Factory
4:10 pm Prep & Landing
4:40 pm Prep & Landing: Naughty vs. Nice
5:10 pm The Santa Clause
7:20 pm Frozen
9:50 pm Elf

December 19:

7 am Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmas
8:30 am A Dennis the Menace Christmas
10:30 am Richie Rich’s Christmas Wish
12:35 pm Home Alone 3
2:40 pm The Search for Santa Paws
4:45 pm Santa Paws: The Santa Pups
6:50 pm Elf
8:55 pm National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation
12 am Just Friends

December 20:

7 am The Search for Santa Paws
9:10 am Santa Paws 2: The Santa Pups
11:15 am Home Alone 3
1:25 pm The Holiday
4:30 pm Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town
5:35 pm The Year Without a Santa Claus
6:40 pm National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation
8:50 pm The Santa Clause
12 am Holidaze

December 21:

7 am Snow Buddies
9 am Santa Buddies: The Legend of Santa Paws
11:05 am Happy Feet Two
1:10 pm Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town
2:10 pm The Year Without a Santa Claus
3:15 pm The Polar Express
5:20 pm Prep & Landing
5:50 pm Prep & Landing: Naughty vs. Nice
6:20 pm Toy Story That Time Forgot
6:50 pm The Santa Clause
8:55 pm Elf
12 am The Mistle-Tones

December 22:

7 am Happy Feet
9:30 am Happy Feet Two
11:30 am The Little Drummer Boy
12 pm The Polar Express
2:05 pm Jack Frost
4:10 pm Frosty’s Winter Wonderland
4:40 pm Toy Story That Time Forgot
5:10 pm Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas
6:45 pm Elf
8:55 pm Jingle All The Way
12 am Disney’s A Christmas Carol

December 23:

7 am Frosty’s Winter Wonderland
7:30 am Jack Frost
11 am Richie Rich’s Christmas Wish
1 pm Jingle All The Way
3 pm Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas
4:35 pm Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town
5:40 pm The Year Without a Santa Claus
6:45 pm Disney’s A Christmas Carol
8:50 pm The Santa Clause
12 am Home Alone: The Holiday Heist

December 24:

7 am Jack Frost
8:05 am Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmas
9:40 am Mickey’s Twice Upon a Christmas
11:15 am Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town
12:20 pm The Year Without a Santa Claus
1:25 pm Arthur Christmas
3:30 pm The Polar Express
5:35 pm The Santa Clause
7:40 pm Elf
9:45 pm National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation
11:55 pm Scrooged

December 25:

7 am The Search for Santa Paws
9:10 am Santa Buddies: The Legend of Santa Paws
11:20 am Arthur Christmas
1:25 pm The Polar Express
3:30 pm Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town
4:35 pm The Year Without a Santa Claus
5:40 pm Elf
7:45 pm National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation
9:55 pm Scrooged

20 Questions to Help Spice up Your Thanksgiving Dinner Conversation

Comments Closed

thanksgiving-conversationThanksgiving is the season of family and friends, turkey and pumpkin pie.  It’s a time when family comes together from near and far. If you are hosting this years Thanksgiving Dinner, you may feel a little pressure on how the conversation will go.  Will there be those awkward silences? Or that stressed topic of politics or religion? What if you did something different this year and had the following questions prepared and ready to help direct the conversation? This may help with those times of silence or the need to change the subject. These questions can be deliberately placed so it goes with each person.  Or, have each person pull one from a hat.  Either way, it’s definitely a great way to get some good conversation and make some fun memories.

  1. What is something you did as a kid that nobody knows about?
  2. What is your favorite family tradition?
  3. What does a real turkey sound like?
  4. Which person at this table would make the best President of the United States and why?
  5. What is your favorite article of clothing and why?
  6. What was your favorite thing about the place you grew up?
  7. What memory stays with you from your school days?
  8. If you won $1 Million Dollars tomorrow, how would you spend it?
  9. If you could invite anyone to this Thanksgiving dinner, who would you invite?
  10. What animal best represents you?
  11. If you could eat one food item on your plate for a whole year, what would it be?
  12. In 15 seconds, list as many things you are grateful for.
  13. Tell about your favorite place you visited this year.
  14. Tell a favorite memory that you have had with the person sitting across from you.
  15. If you could go shopping in only 1 store this holiday season, what would it be?
  16. If you could explore anywhere in the world, where would it be?
  17. What is your favorite memory of your grandparents?
  18. Tell your favorite joke.
  19. What is something you admire about the person sitting to your left?
  20. What are you most thankful for this year? (You could end with this and ask everyone at the table)

 

Hopefully these questions will help add some memories and added smiles to your Thanksgiving Dinner!

How to Make a Christmas Countdown Chain Using Your Halloween Candy

Comments Closed

candy-finalNow that Halloween is over, do you have a TON of candy?  What do you do with it? How do you minimize the intake of sugar for your kids? Here is a great way to solve all of your questions- Make a Christmas Countdown Chain! This chain seriously saves me from kid tantrums and tears. Instead of them asking every 10 minutes if they can have another piece of candy, they know that they get one piece a day and each day means it’s closer to Christmas! It’s super simple and even the kids can help out.  Here’s how you do it:

Supplies you need:
Plastic Wrap
Ribbon or Yarn- cut into strips long enough to tie
Scissors
Halloween Candy (# depending on when you start your chain-days to Christmas.)

Directions:

Stretch your Plastic Wrap out and keep it straight. Don’t cut it off until you are completely done. Tie Ribbon on the end and add in your first piece of candy. Next you’ll want to wrap the plastic wrap around the candy and twist the end. Then add another ribbon. Repeat this step until you have all of your pieces in your plastic wrap.  End the chain with another ribbon-twisting before you tie. That’s it!

Tips:
#1: If you have more than one child, consider using different colors of ribbon or yarn for each kid.  That way they know which one is theirs just by looking at the color.

#2: Remember to twist the wrap after each candy, otherwise they tend to fall out.

#3 If you don’t have enough pieces to go all the way until Christmas, consider going until Thanksgiving or even through the month of November. There can be different ending times, depending on the amount of candy you have.

The Perfect Caramel Dip for Apples

Comments Closed

caramel-applesI love driving around town and seeing all of the apple orchards full of apples. It’s apple season and nothing goes better with an apple than caramel.  Yum.  If you go in a store you would pay a lot of money for a small container of caramel. This caramel dip recipe is super easy and I’m betting you have everything you need in your pantry. This would also make a great after school snack that the kids are sure to enjoy.

Ingredients 

1/2 Cup or 1 Stick Butter
1/2 Cup Brown Sugar
1 Cup Karo Syrup
1 Can Sweetened Condensed Milk
2 tsp Vanilla

Directions

Bring to a boil – butter, brown sugar and karo syrup. Once it comes to a boil, lower heat to medium and add in the condensed milk and bring to a boil again.  Constantly stir and cook for 2 minutes and remove from heat and add vanilla. Wait a few minutes until cooled before you pour into serving bowls.  Serve warm with crisp apples.  Enjoy!

Lost Password