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Simple Spring Bucket List for Foodies

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When a new season begins, bucket lists of activities to do to make the most of the season tend to catch our eye. Rather than share a long list, we thought we would create something simple that has something specific in mind – food! New seasons tend to want to make us try new foods, especially as we welcome back many fruits and vegetables. From picking berries and planting a garden to making a delicious sweet treat many of us know and love, below we’re sharing six foodie things for you to tackle throughout the spring with your family and friends! 

Pick Berries

Have you ever picked your own berries? Blueberries and strawberries are in-season in the spring, and it’s so much fun to fill bushels with your own fruit. Look for a u-pick farm in your area, and choose a time to visit! Many farms also have plenty of other activities to enjoy, so make a day of it. After you pick your own fruit, think about creating a fun recipe at home. We can confirm these blueberry muffins and these strawberry recipes are delicious!

Pack a Picnic

When was the last time you packed a picnic to enjoy while out and about? Think about making sandwiches at home, picking up subs from the grocery store, or ordering takeout (pizza does the trick!). Then visit a park or beach and dine on the grass, sand, or even from the comfort of your car. A change of scenery can make a meal feel like a completely different experience! 

Dine Al Fresco

A spring sight we love to see is diners enjoying breakfast, lunch, and dinner outside! If you typically opt to eat inside, visit a restaurant you frequent or a new spot you’ve yet to try and mix up your routine by sitting outside. This is especially nice to do when there’s a warm night in the forecast!

Make S’mores

As a pre-summer celebration treat, plan to make s’mores! The classic way to make them is over a campfire, but you can also make them on a grill or even bake them in the oven. The only ingredients you need are graham crackers, marshmallows, and chocolate bars.

Plant a Garden

There’s still plenty of time to plant a garden, and the spring is the best time to get your seeds in the ground or in pots. Consider planting flowers, starting a vegetable garden, or growing herbs inside. The fun thing about growing fruits, vegetables, and herbs is you can eat what you grow throughout the spring and summer and sometimes even the fall and winter.

Try a New Restaurant

It’s a new season, so why not try a new or new-to-you restaurant? The pandemic was hard on restaurants, and they will welcome your support! Plus, you might find a new dish you love or a restaurant you will frequent for weeks, months, and even years to come.

Foodies, how are you welcoming the spring? Let us know on Facebook!

8 Ways to Decorate Easter Eggs

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We’ve made it to spring, Shopkickers! Who else is ready for warmer weather, more time spent outside, and blooming flowers? Though you may not be able to see us, our hands are raised up high! As we prepare to welcome this new season once again, we’re also eagerly awaiting the return of one of our favorite holiday traditions: decorating Easter eggs.

For years, one of the only ways to give your eggs a little extra flair was to dunk them in dye. While this classic way to decorate is still exactly that – a classic – there are now countless ways to make your Easter eggs standout. From using nail polish to adding stickers, we’re sharing eight ways to decorate Easter eggs below. We think you will find there’s an Easter craft for families of all ages!

Shaving Cream: 

Have you ever dyed Easter eggs using shaving cream? We see these eggs floating around the web every year, and we’re eager to give them a try! You add drops of food coloring to shaving cream, twist the egg in the mixture, let dry, then wipe away the shaving cream. The result is a cool marbled look! P.S: You can also use whipped cream instead of shaving cream. 

Natural Dye: 

Sure you can use store bought dye, but for an extra challenge you can create your own Easter egg dye from the colors found naturally in foods! You will want to follow this tutorial that describes the colors found in specific foods and drinks (see: wine). Once you’ve chosen your colors, bring water, salt, vinegar, and your food or beverage of choice to a boil. Once done, strain, cool, and dye! 

Stickers: 

If you’re looking for a no-mess Easter craft, this is the one for you! Although you can definitely dye your eggs first, there’s no need because stickers add plenty of whimsy on their own. Simply purchase stickers or use some from your at-home stash and place them on Easter eggs. If you want to add more creativity, you can follow this tutorial where your kids can color their own stickers! 

Nail Polish: 

Did you know you can dye Easter eggs with nail polish? We didn’t either! This article walks you through the steps, and they’re simple. You’ll add a few drops of nail polish to a cup of water, swirl around, dunk your egg, and let it dry. The result will be a marbled Easter egg made with a beauty product you likely already have at home. 

Glitter: 

As long as you don’t mind a little mess, decorate your Easter eggs with glitter! Similar to other decorating ideas, you can still dye your Easter eggs first, or you can let the glitter shine entirely on its own. The steps to add glitter are simple: place glue on your egg, sprinkle on glitter, let dry, and enjoy! 

Temporary Tattoos: 

Temporary tattoos are not only for people, they’re for Easter eggs too! And, these are so quick and easy to make! You will want to source temporary tattoos (you can find them at Amazon). After you hard boil your eggs and allow them to cool, you will add your tattoos to your eggs by placing them face down, dabbing on water to allow the design to transfer, and pulling the paper away. Voila! 

Baby Chicks:

Chicks are synonymous with Easter, and this tutorial shares how to turn your eggs into darling baby characters! The steps involve first dying your eggs yellow, then dip dying. After that, it’s all about creating a mini beak and drawing on clothes and details with a Sharpie. We think older kids will really enjoy this Easter craft!

Tie Dye: 

Tie dye is everywhere, so add the trend to your Easter eggs! You will need paper towels, dye, and a spray bottle filled with water to create this Easter craft. The process of creating your tie dyed eggs is so similar to making a t-shirt. We hope you give this method a try!

How will you decorate your Easter eggs this year? Share your craft day with us on Facebook!

Cozy Winter Soup Recipes

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What are your favorite meals to enjoy during the winter? This season, we’re leaning into all things cozy more than ever before. And, for us, that means soup is our most popular meal on our family menus! We’re fans because soup tastes delicious on cold days. Plus, it’s easy to pair with other simple menu items (hint: grilled cheese). Not to mention, a single soup recipe also typically makes multiple servings, which means leftovers you can enjoy later in the week or freeze for future meals. Below, you’ll find five winter soup recipes that will quickly become family favorites in your household!

Sausage Meatball Soup:

There’s no other way to say this other than to say this soup is incredible. It’s hearty and filling, and just like The Kitchn says, there’s something so fun about finding a mini meatball on your spoon! The core ingredients are sausage, spinach, and Ditalini pasta, and the additional ingredients provide plenty of flavor. The result is a soup you will truly enjoy well beyond the final serving!

Tip: When we made this soup, we added an extra cup of pasta to make it even more hearty. We were not disappointed!

Vegetarian Kale Soup:

This soup combines many foods you have likely enjoyed before – kale, potatoes, and cannellini beans – into a recipe that you can cook in one single step! Outside of peeling and chopping, the only other work you will need to do is to pop everything in the pot and simmer for 25 minutes. This is perfect for a relatively quick weeknight meal!

Cozy Chicken and Dumplings:

When a soup has more than 3,500 positive reviews, it’s one you simply must make! Chicken noodle soup is a forever favorite, and chicken and dumpling soup offers a wonderful alterative. To cook this soup, you will need chicken and dumplings you will make yourself (the steps are doable). Add vegetables and heavy cream (plus, a bit more), and you will have a hearty winter soup recipe with plenty of leftovers. 

French Onion Soup:

For some reason, French onion soup sounds like an excellent idea for Sunday night dinner! It offers warmth with plenty of flavor, and you could also serve it as a first course to a larger dinner. Just in case you need more convincing, this recipe calls for Gruyere cheese. Need we say more?

Tomato Soup:

This tomato soup is billed as “the best ever” by Taste of Home, and we’re on board! Various types of tomatoes are needed for obvious reasons, but the surprises come from the carrots that are also required! We’re intrigued, and we’re also planning to whip up grilled cheese for the ultimate pairing. Keep this in mind for your next snow day!

What’s your favorite soup recipe to cook? Share it with us on Facebook!

How to Create a Kansas City and Tampa Inspired Super Bowl Menu

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The Super Bowl kicks off this Sunday, February 7, as the Tampa Bay Buccaneers face off against the Kansas City Chiefs! In between choosing the team we will cheer on, learning more about the first poet to perform at a Super Bowl (we’re looking at you, Amanda Gorman), and replaying all of The Weeknd’s hit songs prior to the Super Bowl Halftime Show, we’re in the middle of planning our menus. So, what should you drink and eat on Sunday? Here are the key menu items to include if you want to honor Tampa and Kansas City!

KANSAS CITY:

Drink:

Kansas is known for a classic drink most often enjoyed in the morning – coffee! Think about brewing your go-to brand and enjoying it hot or with ice. If you would prefer to sip on something alcoholic, you’ll want to turn to beer. Kansas is known for their breweries!

Appetizer:

You can never have too many appetizers, so we recommend adding barbecue ribs, fried chicken, and onion rings to your menu. The first two don’t need any additional explanation, but onion rings make the list because they’re often included in a famous sandwich called the Z-Man, which involves brisket with barbecue sauce, provolone cheese, and the infamous onion rings.   

Main Course: 

This main course may sound like an odd pairing, but chili and cinnamon rolls are a favorite in Kansas! You’ll tick off your sweet and savory boxes with this course. 

Dessert:

Of course, a Super Bowl menu wouldn’t be complete without dessert, so you’ll want to turn to pie! This is where your Kansas City and Tampa menus can easily overlap because pie is a popular choice in Florida too.

TAMPA: 

Drink:

For non-alcoholic fun, you will want to start your Super Bowl celebrating by toasting with glasses of orange juice – a Florida favorite. If you do want to add an alcoholic drink to your menu, a Mojito is the way to go!

Appetizer:

Tampa is home to a number of great spots to stop for tacos, so salsa is a must for your first course. Rather than serving a traditional recipe, make it mango!

Main Course:

Cuban sandwiches are a Tampa favorite, so it gets the nod for the main course! A Cuban sandwich is made by combining salami, ham, pork, cheese, and fixings together (here’s a great recipe!). Think about cutting the sandwich into halves or quarters to make things more bite-sized.

Dessert: 

As we mentioned above, celebrate Tampa and Kansas City together by serving pie for dessert. Key Lime pie is a favorite in the Sunshine State!

What’s on your Super Bowl menu? Share with us on Facebook!

5 Simple January Delights

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With the year mark of the pandemic quickly approaching and January’s long winter days feeling slightly longer, we’ve noticed families are searching for new, small ways to celebrate. After all, many times it’s the small things that can make us smile the most! If your family is also looking for fun ways to make sure the days don’t seemingly blend together, we’re here to help. Below, we’re sharing five simple things you can do with your family that are sure to make everyone’s day feel a little extra special.

1. Picnic Indoors:

Picnics remind us of warm spring and summer days, but they’re equally as enjoyable during the winter. Whip up a fun menu of picnic foods (this article is sure to help!) and make sure to pack all of the picnic necessities (take a peek at this piece!). Then cart everything to your family room and setup your picnic inside. You might be eating steps away from your kitchen, but even the small change of scenery will help to create a memorable experience for everyone.

2. Go Ice Skating:

Research the locations where you and your family can go ice skating in your hometown! Cities often put ice skating rinks into place downtown, so see if there’s one where you live. You can also visit an indoor rink to skate without some of the elements. Ice skating is a great way to get everyone moving, potentially try something new, and stay socially distant.

3. Plan a Sunday Brunch:

Make your Sunday extra special and plan a complete brunch menu! This article has plenty of recipes to inspire your menu. If you want your meal to feel even more celebratory, create invitations to invite your kids to the fun. Then ask them to make decorations. A Sunday brunch together might become a weekly favorite!

4. Make Someone Smile:

If you find that you’re feeling down, one of the best things to do is to reach out to someone else. In this case, consider doing a random act of kindness. Send a note, purchase coffee for the person behind you, or buy flowers for a friend. There are plenty more ideas for you to consider here!

5. Sip a Warm Drink:

The winter is the season to lean into all things cozy, and warm drinks are a must-have! Try making hot chocolate, sample coffee or tea you have never tried before, or make your own hot apple cider. Once you have your drink of choice, sink into your couch to watch a movie, catch up on a show, or read a book!

How are you spending your January? Let us know your family’s favorite simple activity on Facebook!

3 Goals You Can Reach in 2021: Part 3

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In case you’re just joining us, we’ve been detailing how to take steps toward nine of the most common goals people set every year in January. We’ve talked about how to workout and read more, how to stick to a budget, and how to lessen screen time (even during a pandemic!). There’s more for you to explore here and here. 

As a reminder, we’re sharing simple steps you can start doing today to make goals a reality rather than something you simply write down. Today, we’re going to talk about the final three goals of the most popular annual goals: how to be more eco-friendly, how to stay organized, and how to try new recipes. Let’s keep the goal setting going! 

Be More Eco-friendly: 

Supporting and being kinder to our environment is an ongoing endeavor, rather than something we can solve in one swift motion. But, if we all make even small changes, they do add up! So, consider the ways your family lives, and think about ways you might be able to make revisions. Here are a few ideas:

Recycle: Many communities pick up recycling each week or there are centers within driving distance where you can drop off your recycling. Rather than tossing water bottles, soda bottles, jars, newspapers, and more into the trash, consider rinsing them and placing them into a recycling can instead.

Reusable Bottles & Dinnerware: Consider choosing to use a reusable water bottle throughout your day rather than single use plastic. You can also opt to skip using paper plates and plastic utensils and instead turn to everyday dinnerware that can be washed and used again and again. 

Use Reusable Bags: When you make a trip to the grocery store, how many plastic bags do you typically leave carrying? Likely a lot, which is totally normal! Purchase a few reusable bags you can use each week to cut back on waste. The great thing about reusable bags is they can typically fit more than an average plastic bag, which means you’ll need to make fewer trips back and forth to your car to bring everything inside.

Get Organized:

Whenever the word “organize” is mentioned, typically feelings of overwhelm follow. But, they don’t have to! Rather than thinking you need to completely organize and overhaul your space at once, why not break things down into steps? Here are a few ideas:

Tackle One Area: This might look like a room, or it might look like a drawer! There aren’t rules about how slow or fast you need to organize.

Set a Timer: Think about seeing what you can get done in a block of time. Five, 10, 15, or 60 minutes will definitely allow you to make a dent or complete an entire project! 

Look to the Pros: There are plenty of articles about organization, and some of them are definitely worth the read! We like this piece by Real Simple about how organization pros create order. The tips are 100% doable!

Tidy: Whether it’s at the end of the day or one day a week, think about tidying up your space. Organization doesn’t work unless you do, and your new process will take time to get used to. The key thing is remembering how you feel when everything is in order!

Try New Recipes:

If you’re becoming tired of your meal rotation, it’s likely time to mix it up. Consider trying even one new recipe each week. 

Think about collecting recipes to try and pinning them onto a board on Pinterest. Move the ones you love to a new board after you’ve made them, and delete the ones you know you never want to make again. You can also mix things up by trying rotating through new recipes for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snack, so your list is never completely filled with recipes that have many steps (dinner recipes, we’re looking at you!).   

We also post plenty of recipes in the app!

Now that we’ve reached the end of our review of some of the most popular goals and resolutions, which ones are on your list? Let us know on Facebook!

3 Goals You Can Achieve: Part 2

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We’ve almost officially reached the middle of January! So, how are you doing with your goals? Have you set goals for the year, or are you still working through what you would like to accomplish this year? Keep in mind, there truly isn’t anything magical about January 1. You can set a goal and start taking small steps toward achieving it at any time!

Last week, we shared the first part of our goal setting series where we’re walking through some of the most popular goals people set each year. The fun part is we’re sharing simple steps you can do today to start working toward reaching each goal, rather than solely having them written down without a game plan. Today, we’re digging into how to read more, how to stick to a budget, and how to spend time with family and friends (yes, even during COVID-19; stay with us!). Keep reading, and make sure to tune back in next week for the third – and final – part of our series!

Read More: 

If books are on your mind, we’re here to help! This goal definitely relates to spending less time on screens, but we thought it deserved its own section. 

Consider starting slow by setting a goal to read 1 book/month. Then try to read 10-20 pages per day or set aside 15-30 minute windows of time to read. The best thing to do is to find a consistent window of time each day to carve out this routine! 

Another idea is to read books that have been turned into movies or TV shows (we compiled a list that you can find here!). Knowing you can experience how a creative team took a book from the page to the screen can be a great motivator to finish a book.

If you’re looking for great books to enjoy throughout the year, Good Housekeeping released a list of the most anticipated books of 2021!

Stick to a Budget: 

There are plenty of articles and tips about how to create and stick to a budget, but we’re here to share simple ways you can stay on track! 

One place to easily spend more each week than you may have originally intended is at the grocery store. So, make a list before you shop. Then stick to your list even as you wander down the aisles. Another idea? Don’t shop when you’re hungry! Because we’ve done it, we can confirm the rumors are true: you do, in fact, purchase more if you shop while dreaming about your next meal or snack.

Another simple thing to do to keep your budget on track is to use Shopkick to your advantage! In between interacting with us on Instagram and Facebook, pop onto the app and explore the Discover page – glance through lookbooks, watch videos, and see how you can earn kicks on your next shopping trip. Once you reach your chosen kick goal, redeem your kicks for a gift card that you can use when you next pick up the essentials on your list. Shopkick is free to use! What budget tip could be better?   

Spend More Time with Family & Friends:  

COVID-19 has definitely changed how we spend time with family and friends and, of course, how often we can gather together. But, that shouldn’t stop you from checking in on your favorite people! Many of us are suffering from Zoom fatigue once we reach the end of the day or week, so we highly recommend taking what some might call an “old fashioned” approach: pick up the phone. 

Plan a time to catch up with a friend or family member, and make it a weekly date! To feel even more connected, you can both plan to engage in the same activity, whether that’s talking while you’re taking individual walks, driving home from work, or catching up on chores (a phone call makes laundry more fun!). A call with someone you love will brighten your day!

We’re here to cheer you on! Keep sharing your progress with us on Facebook as we all work toward achieving our goals (and more) in 2021.

How to Jumpstart Your 2021 Goals: Part 1

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The first week of the new year often provides many of us with a much-needed boost of energy after a relaxing week and a half of family time and never quite knowing what day it is. We’re excited to embrace schedules again, and many of us are also ready to start tackling our goals.

We’re more than optimistic about everything we hope 2021 has in store, but we’ve also been feeling a bit more cautious as we set our intentions for the new year. If you’re feeling uncertain about planning big things for the year ahead due to Covid-19 or you’re not quite sure how to start working toward your goals, we thought we would break down some of the most common goals or resolutions so often set on January 1 in a two-part series. 

Today, we’re detailing ways to travel, lessen screen time, or workout more in 2021. And, we’ll be back next week with our second installment of our goals series! 

Let’s kickoff 2021 with positivity and put your goals into action together! 

Travel:

Throughout 2020, travel looked different for many of us, and we have a feeling that will continue for much of 2021. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t explore! 

Look into hiking trails to experience, nearby towns you have never explored, museums and zoos that have long been on your list to visit, and lakes and beaches to frequent as the weather warms up again. Although each option may be close to home, we do believe you can still create plenty of memories with your family! 

If you’re still missing your favorite city or attraction, take a peek on tourism websites to see which museums and sites are offering virtual tours (here + here for ideas!)

Lessen Screen Time:

Our days are spent on Zoom, and we’re reaching for our phones more than ever before. Many people have a desire to lessen screen time for themselves and their kids, and it’s definitely possible!

Consider creating specific windows with start and end times for being on a screen. You can set limits on your smartphone for specific apps, and your phone will notify you when you’ve hit your limit. The key is then walking away! Another idea is to cultivate a new hobby that’s away from your screen – reading, crafting, or working on a home improvement project are all popular. Lastly, think about schedule game nights with your family.

The best way to start a new habit to stop an old one is to find things you are more excited to do than anything you can experience on a screen. It’s possible! 

Workout:

Many people set fitness goals as a new year begins, so the key is to get moving! But, sometimes the next question is how?

One idea is to start simple – create a window to take a 15-30 minute walk outside. Even if the temperatures are less than ideal (it’s winter after all!), wrap up with a coat, hat, and gloves. Once you get moving, you will warm up; we promise! Create a playlist, find a podcast you enjoy, or choose an audiobook to listen to while you walk. 

If your goal is to take workout classes, search for ones you might enjoy on YouTube (here’s a list of great online classes). You can also sign up for an app, like Peloton, for less than $15/month to take a variety of classes.

Think about asking a friend (or many!) to join you on your fitness journey. Then, text each other to check in to see who has completed their workout for the day. Accountability groups can work wonders to keep you on track!  

What step can you take today to start working toward your goals? Keep the encouragement going on Facebook!

11 Fun Family Activities for Winter Break at Home

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In between celebrating the holidays this week and counting down to the new year next week, many families will be spending time at home together. We always enjoy the final two weeks of the year because they feel both fun and relaxing at the same time. Even though we have spent more time at home than ever before this year, there are still fun ways to make your time off feel like a true staycation. So, we’re detailing 11 fun family activities you can do at home with kids of all ages! 

Build a Fort:

Kids (and adults!) love building and spending time in forts, so gather pillows and blankets together and start building. You can even add string lights inside! Think about naming your fort and drawing a sign to make things official. Cozy up inside and watch a movie, read a book, play a game, or tell stories together.

Write a Story:

Your kids likely have books they love to read and reread again and again. To spark their imaginations, ask them to write their own story complete with words and illustrations. Computer paper is perfect for this because you can easily have the pages bound together at an office supply store. You can also tell stories aloud or write a family story together. Whatever you and your kids create will become a new favorite!

Do a Scavenger Hunt:

We know many of you love to spend time outside! One of the easiest activities to do is to take a walk. To keep kids entertained, think about doing a scavenger hunt in your neighborhood while you stroll. Decorations will likely still be on display for much of this week and next, so consider giving Studio DIY’s scavenger hunt a try!

Make a Calendar: 

Rather than purchasing a calendar, create your own with photos you have captured this year! Sites like Minted and Shutterfly have great easy-to-use options to create desk and wall calendars to use in your home or work-from-home office spaces. Ask your kids to help you to choose the photos and design each month together! You’ll love looking back on past memories throughout 2021. 

Do a Puzzle: 

Puzzles are a great activity you can complete all in one sitting or return to throughout an extended period of time. Working on a puzzle on the floor always works well because there’s plenty of space. If you’re working on a larger puzzle, however, you will likely want to house it in a spot that it can stay until it’s complete. A card table, desk, or dining room table works wonders for this purpose! Then you can add a piece or two whenever you walk past or settle in for a longer session. Stores like Target and Walmart have puzzles, and you can also find them at bookstores. If you want to make your own from a photo you captured, look into Zazzle!

Play Board Games:

If you can’t quite remember when you last played a board game together or you play them frequently, choose one to play together! You can even create a tournament where you play multiple games throughout the week or weekend, and the person with the most wins gets a prize.

Send Mail:

During the holidays, many of us are sending and receiving holiday mail. But, once January arrives, the “fun” mail tends to stop. So, ask your kids to draw pictures or make cards for friends and family. Their January days will be brightened instantly!

Make a Wrapping Paper Craft:

Before you throw away the wrapping paper that’s tossed aside after opening holiday gifts, think about saving it. We spotted this article from Buzzfeed that details plenty of crafts you and your kids can make from wrapping paper as a way to reuse it! 

Play with Water:

Even though it may be a little cold in many areas to go swimming in a pool or the ocean, that doesn’t mean your kids can’t play with water. Young kids love to “help”, so have them wash their toys in the bath or sink. You can also play with water beads! Another simple idea? Add bubbles to a bath. 

Donate Toys:

The holidays typically mean adding more toys to your collection. If your kids have toys they no longer play with or you simply want to create more space in your home, why not spend time choosing toys to donate. Think about placing a number around the donation, like 5-10 toys, and then asking your kids to review what they love and what they really don’t play with as much anymore. Giving old toys a new home means they can keep being enjoyed, which is the goal!

Have a Spa Day:

The week in between Christmas and New Year’s Eve is one we hope is relaxing. To enhance the relaxation and fun, host a spa day at home! Purchase face masks you have yet to try, do manicures and pedicures, soak your feet, and enjoy a bubble bath. This is also the perfect time to officially wear sweatpants and leggings! After your day at the “spa”, read a book, catch up on a TV show, or watch a movie…and order takeout.

A quick tip: bookmark these ideas for the winter and rainy days! Most of these ideas aren’t holiday specific, so refer back to them whenever you need an idea for something fun you and your family can do inside together. As always, make sure to keep the conversation going on Facebook!

How to Get into the Holiday Spirit in 2020

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For many of us, 2020 has felt long as we have navigated a year unlike anything many of us have ever experienced. As a result, much like the many months before it, the holidays feel different. For some, there’s a big desire to really dive into all things festive and happy – something known to tackle in a joyful way. For others, there’s a hesitancy to celebrate the season and a lack of excitement where a bountiful spirit typically resides. If you fall into the second camp, know you are definitely not alone. 

We have heard plenty of people remark they’re feeling more “bah humbug” than usual, so we thought we would piece together 10 easy ways you can still inject December with joy even during a holiday season that feels vastly different from any other. Keep reading for fun holiday ideas you can do alone or with family or friends, and a big bonus: they won’t break the bank!

1. See the Holiday Lights: 

Many cities and towns have drive-through light shows, and a quick search will likely cause a few to pop up in your area. Pick a date, and visit one! Most displays include themed lights that are larger than life, and the majority of shows also suggest tuning into a radio station that’s playing a soundtrack of holiday music.

If your area doesn’t have a light show, you can always go for an evening walk through your neighborhood to take in the lights where you live! Grab a flashlight for your stroll, and don’t forget to whip up mugs of hot chocolate to go to stay warm.

2. Do a Holiday DIY:

There are plenty of crafts you can tackle by yourself or with your kids! Purchase a gingerbread house kit and start building; make your own ornaments; create a garland. The options are endless, but here is a great place to start for kids!

3. Watch a Holiday Movie:

Whether you tune into a cable channel or scroll through your go-to streaming services, there are plenty of holiday movies to enjoy. Plan to watch your seasonal favorites, as well as a few new-to-you flicks this season. If you’re looking for a list of classic holiday movies, this article will help to point you in a direction!   

4. Volunteer:

Think about contacting organizations in your area to see if any are looking for volunteers, purchase toys for kids who might not receive presents, contact a local nursing home to see if their residents would like to receive cards, or make a donation to a charity you admire. Helping others is a great way to connect and brighten your spirits and theirs.

5. Take in a Holiday Performance:

Due to Covid-19, many performances are now happening virtually online in order to keep guests and performers safe. The great bonus of this is you can enjoy performances from other cities in addition to your own. City ballets, including the New York City Ballet, are going to air performances of “The Nutcracker”, and musicians from Carnegie Hall are also streaming to virtual crowds. 

6. Bake a Holiday Recipe:

The holidays don’t feel quite like the holidays without time spent in the kitchen! Last week, we shared 10 holiday cookie recipes that are all delicious. Choose one, source your ingredients, pick a time, and get baking! 

7. Listen to Holiday Music:

It’s officially Mariah Carey season, and we are welcoming “All I Want for Christmas is You” every time it plays. Whether you’re working from home, spending time in the kitchen, or simply relaxing, tune into a holiday music station. There are plenty of options from jazz to classics and pop to kids’ (and everything in between). Hearing a few festive songs might help to brighten your spirits!

8. Read a Holiday Book:

There are books for every season, and there are a number of books set during the holiday season! They always feel particularly cozy to enjoy during December (and even January), and we think you will agree. “One Night in December” by Josie Silver is a great read, and Oprah Magazine found 34 other holiday themed books. If you’re looking for holiday books for kids, Studio DIY has a great roundup! 

9. Send Holiday Snail Mail:

This year, a trip to the mailbox has felt like an event. So, keep the snail mail coming for your family and friends! Think about picking up a box of holiday cards and writing a note in each one to your recipient. You can even DIY your own cards for an extra holiday project!

10. Remember: This Year is Different:

Though it may seem odd to end on this note, it’s important to point out that this year is different. We’ve navigated a lot, and there’s still more to come. So, give yourself some grace. If you don’t tick off as many holiday to-dos as you have in the past, that’s okay! Enjoy what you do decide to do, and remember less can definitely be more.

How are you getting into the holiday spirit this year? Join us and share on Facebook!

10 Ways to Celebrate Thanksgiving at Home

Posted on by shopkick

Many of us are trading in travel plans for a cozy day and night at home this Thanksgiving. Even though this year’s holiday may look a little different, there are still plenty of ways to make sure your family’s day still feels equally as festive. From kid-friendly crafts and can’t-miss TV specials to delicious recipes to serve and much more, keep reading below for 10 ways to ensure your at-home Thanksgiving still leaves you feeling extra grateful.

Get Crafting: 

One of the sweetest ways to decorate your home during the holidays is with crafts created by your kids! We spotted this turkey DIY, this pumpkin pie garland, these painted leaves and rocks (kids love collecting items!), and this coloring page (perfect for older kids and adults, too). What will you and your family make?

Watch the Thanksgiving Day Parade: 

The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade always signals Thanksgiving and the holiday season has officially arrived, so plan to tune in with your family. The parade will still happen just as it always does (with a few Covid changes, of course), and it always offers such a fun peek at New York City. The parade starts to air live at 9 a.m. EST on NBC!

Watch the National Dog Show: 

Don’t change the channel when the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade comes to a close because the National Dog Show airs right after on NBC. This special is a competition, but the announcers always offer plenty of insight into the dogs and their breeds. If you’re thinking about adopting a dog, the National Dog Show will offer plenty of inspiration, not to mention an abundance of cute pups.

Take a Hike: 

Whether you visit a local park or search for a new-to-you trail to explore with your family, spending time outside is one of the most fun ways to spend a holiday. You can even turn your hike into a scavenger hunt for your kids by asking them to point out different colors, animals, or items found in nature.  

Run a 5K: 

Before the tryptophan hits, consider running (or walking!) a 5K with your family. You don’t need to follow a specific route; you just need to complete 3.1 miles. If you’re hoping to do a more official race, look online for virtual options to help to hold you and your crew accountable.

Set the Table: 

Today is a great day to use the “good” china! Pull the pieces you save for holidays off of their shelves, and set a table that will make you feel extra fancy (even if you’re planning to feast in your daytime pajamas). You can even make your own centerpiece to add extra flair.

Bake a New Recipe: 

If you have been eying a new recipe, Thanksgiving is a great day to give it a try! If you’re searching for delicious desserts, pop into the app, take a peek at Sally’s Baking Addiction, or pay Ina Garten (aka: The Barefoot Contessa) a visit. All three sources have plenty of recommendations to share!

Zoom Cocktail Hour: 

Whether you’re missing family and friends or simply want to say “hi”, invite your favorite people to a Zoom cocktail hour. You can even share cocktail recipes beforehand or make them live together. Outside of catching up with your loved ones, defining your Zoom as a “cocktail hour” places a time limit just in case the energy starts to lag.

Share Your Grateful List: 

Now more than ever, we’re all searching for positivity. Even though this year has had plenty of twists and turns, we do firmly believe there’s at least one thing (even if it’s small and simple) that has left you feeling grateful. Whether you share what you’re grateful for over dinner or dessert or throughout the day, make sure you do. Hearing positivity is certain to make you smile.

Watch a Holiday Movie: 

End your Thanksgiving Day by welcoming the holiday season! Plan to watch a holiday movie with your family inside cozied up on the sofa or outside on a projector. You can’t go wrong with “Love Actually” (for teenagers and adults) or “The Grinch” (perfect for anyone at any age)!

How are you spending your Thanksgiving? Keep sharing ideas with our community on Facebook!

Top 5 Thanksgiving Hacks to Make Hosting Fun and Easy

Posted on by shopkick

When we think about Thanksgiving, family favorite recipes and visions of loved ones gathered together immediately comes to mind. During a year when we have spent more time apart from family and friends than ever before, a holiday spent (safely!) together sounds like an absolute delight. 

Even though Thanksgiving is one of the most joyful holidays, there’s also an element of stress for the host. So, if you’re planning to host your first Thanksgiving or your fiftieth, keep reading! We’re sharing our own list of 5 tips and tricks to make this year’s hosting duties a breeze.

Top 5 Thanksgiving Hacks to Make Hosting Fun and Easy | www.shopkick.com

1. The Early Shopper Always Wins: 

This year, Thanksgiving is on Thursday, November 26. You’re likely thinking you have plenty of time to shop – and you do! But, why wait until the week of Thanksgiving when grocery stores will be packed to purchase everything you need? Instead, start adding nonperishables and paper products (more on this below) to your pantry, especially if items are on sale. As the holiday approaches, you will only have items like turkey, vegetables, and any fruit still on your list.

Top 5 Thanksgiving Hacks to Make Hosting Fun and Easy | www.shopkick.com

2. “I’m attracted to pie.”

We’ve all heard that homemade recipes are the best recipes, but Lorelai Gilmore wouldn’t knock pre-made pie and neither should you! Consider picking up a pre-made pie or use pre-made pie crust for your pumpkin pie recipe. By purchasing pre-made where you can, you can still add a homemade twist. The difference is the time needed will be far less and will feel much more doable.

Top 5 Thanksgiving Hacks to Make Hosting Fun and Easy | www.shopkick.com

3. Warm it Up: 

Most Thanksgiving dishes require differing temperatures and timelines for cooking, so warming settings will prove helpful. Consider using slow cookers to keep dishes, like mashed potatoes, stored and warm. You can also use thermoses to keep gravy warm, and you can always warm things up in the microwave.

Top 5 Thanksgiving Hacks to Make Hosting Fun and Easy | www.shopkick.com

4. Dress Down Your Code: 

If ever there was a year for a casual dress code, 2020 is the year! While we do suggest wearing something other than your daytime pajamas, encouraging your family and friends to arrive in clothes they feel comfortable wearing will create a more relaxed atmosphere. This year, the focus is truly on spending time together.

Top 5 Thanksgiving Hacks to Make Hosting Fun and Easy | www.shopkick.com

5. Make Cleanup a Breeze

Holidays are typically when we all like to use the “good china”, but why? On holidays, we’re joined by more people than those who typically sit around our tables on an everyday basis. That means more cleanup! To make cleanup a breeze, opt for paper products for everything from plates and napkins to silverware and cups. The added bonus of paper products this year is you won’t be washing used items (a great added safety layer during Covid). 

Do you have any Thanksgiving hacks to add to our list? Join the conversation with us and our community on Facebook!