Hitchswitch-Blog

Category: Marriage

  • How To Keep The Romance After The Wedding 

    How To Keep The Romance After The Wedding 

    Everyone has heard the horror stories of how a couple, who were perfect for each other, lost their spark, and now they’re unhappy or separated. It’s a scary thought, especially when you’re so in love with your partner, but even though it’s scary, it doesn’t come true for everyone. The spark will fade, but the spark isn’t love. 

    Love is something you have to work on consistently. It’s a muscle you can learn to flex and grow. Your relationship doesn’t have to peak after your wedding. The love between the two of you can continue to grow and change for decades to come, as long as you’re willing to put in the work. Here are some ways to keep the romance alive. 

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    Communication

    Every couple you ask that has been together for an insanely long time will tell you that communication is the key to a successful relationship, and that doesn’t stop after you say, “I do.” It actually becomes even more important, and you can do a few things to improve your communication. 

    First, when conflicts arise, and they will, talk about them as soon as possible. Please don’t wait for them to grow and become more of a problem. Even if you think it’s something small and unimportant, it can create resentment over the years if you don’t address it. 

    Once it’s been talked about and fixed, you have to forgive your partner and move on. When your partner puts in the work to either change their behavior, choice of words, or when they try to fix the situation, you have to give them credit. If you don’t, they might start building resentment towards you.

    Try to stay curious about your partner on a regular basis. Ask them questions about different aspects of their life. You’ll never know everything about them, so keep learning! After you ask questions, be sure that you’re practicing mindful listening. Don’t think about how you’re going to respond; just listen and absorb what they’re saying. 

    Please do your best to tell your partner how much you appreciate them. Whenever you feel gratitude towards them, let them know! Verbalizing your appreciation can help get rid of any lingering negativity. It also may help push them to say when they’re grateful for you. Plus, it’s always a nice thing to hear. 

    Finally, have a hobby or two that are separate from your relationship, and have your partner do the same. This will guarantee that you will both have something new and interesting to talk about and learn from each other. As long as you both continue to grow as individuals, you’ll be able to grow as a couple. 

    Go On Dates

    Finding the time to go on dates can be tricky, but it helps to live by the “2-2-2 rule.” The rule is that you have a date night every two weeks, a weekend or day trip every two months, and a vacation every two years. It will give you something to look forward to and plan together. It also helps keep you accountable.

    While you’re on these dates or trips, don’t be afraid to try something new. Adventurous and exciting activities are excellent bonding exercises. You’ll get closer as a couple, and you’ll create memories that you will look back on for the rest of your life. 

    On these dates, try new things and visit new places. Go to restaurants you would usually never step foot in and eat the food you would never pick. Going to new places is important, but don’t forget to take the time to revisit places that are special to you both as a couple. Go and take pictures at the spot where you met or got engaged. Reliving those memories will help you remember why you fell in love. 

    When you have your date nights, leave your house. You live together now, and it feels like you’re spending a lot of time together, so it’s easy to consider having dinner at home a date, but it’s not. Just because you spend a lot of time together doesn’t mean that it’s all quality time. 

     

    Physical Affection

    Let’s get real. Sometimes you don’t have the time in your schedule or the energy to be intimate with your partner as much as you would like. That’s okay, but that lack of physical connection can take a toll. The fact is you might have to schedule it in advance. Consider correlating with your date nights or on the days when you’re off work. Please, do your best to make it work. 

    Still, physical affection means getting intimate, but it’s so much more than that. It’s also holding each other’s hands while you’re walking down the street, kissing their head before you leave the room, or giving your partner a big hug before you start your day. A long-lasting relationship has different layers of physical affection, and you shouldn’t ignore any of them. 

    Another layer of affection is performing acts of service like cooking them their favorite dinner or finishing their chores when they’ve had a tough day. This layer can also include giving back or foot massages and other physical affections like that. 

     

     

    It’s The Little Things

    Little gestures, like little grievances, can build up over time. Things that seem like nothing could mean the world to your partner, so buy them their favorite candy when you’re at the store or send them to work with a sweet note attached to their lunch. You can also send your partner text messages during the day telling them that you miss them and you’re thinking about them. It will always put a smile on their face.

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    Never get complacent. That’s a recipe for disaster. Becoming complacent is the first step on the road to no longer caring. It won’t be sunshine and rainbows all the time, but that doesn’t mean you’ll be stuck in the bad moments. Work together to make it better, and your relationship will flourish.  

  • 2021 Swimsuit Trends For The Whole Family 

    2021 Swimsuit Trends For The Whole Family 

    Swimsuit season is upon us, and we know you’re ready to get back to the beach! So, to help you out, we’ve compiled a list of 2021 swimsuit trends for women, men, and kids. Get ready to be the hottest family on the beach and the chilliest family poolside. This year’s trends will really up your swimsuit game. 

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    Women’s Swimsuit Trends

    Let’s start by talking about the physical cut of the swimsuit. A lot of the favorite styles this year include asymmetrical cuts. A common form of this trend is the one-shoulder style, but it goes far beyond that. If you want to stand out, any straps, ties, cutouts, and patterns can also be asymmetrical.

    Speaking of ties and cutouts, they are also a significant trend this year. It’s all about the details, and you can find a lot of details in swimsuits that have ties. They can wrap around your body once or multiple times, and they can draw attention anywhere you want. The ties can give you the ability to turn your mass-produced swimwear into a unique fashion statement. 

    If your new swimsuit doesn’t have ties, it probably has cutouts. Designers decided to get bold this year and put cutouts in almost every area of the suit. You can find them on the front, back, and sides of your swimsuit. Some are so big they can make a one-piece feel like a bikini. Depending on your style, they can be cute or seductive, but no matter what, don’t forget your sunscreen. The ties and cutouts are bound to leave some less than desirable tan lines. 

    The colors and textures of the suits this year have also changed. Animal print is back, and it’s in full force. Zebra print and tiger print are the most common, but cow print is also on the rise for the more alternative or eclectic woman. Sure, cow print doesn’t sound great, but everyone who dares to wear it looks stunning. 

    Softer fabrics, like knitted and ribbed material, are also gaining popularity. That’s no surprise considering everyone loved the matching knitted sets in the winter, but this texture can look slightly heavy when used for a swimsuit. To avoid that, wear this material in a bright or pastel color. The color will soften the look of the material and create the perfect balance. 

    How To Wear Them

    A huge fad this season is wearing your bikinis in a way that the designer did not originally intend. Supermodels and everyday people are starting to wear their triangle bikini tops upside down to create a different style. It’s easy to do. You just have to flip the top upside down and tie the string that would normally go around your back around your neck instead. 

    This year, women also realized that if some bikini bottoms didn’t give you enough coverage in the front and too much in the back, you can flip them around too. By wearing them backward, you can get complete coverage in the front while getting a cheeky backside. Women on the internet are going crazy for this hack, and you’ll love it too. 

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    Men’s Swimsuit Trends 

    This year, there are a few new additions to the trends for masculine swimsuits. The first two are with the physical style and design of the shorts. This season, we’re seeing a lot of the shorter swimsuits. Not so short that they could be considered a speedo, but they have about a five-inch mid seam, or they come down to the mid-thigh instead of the knee.

    The second design style change is that swim shorts are starting to look more like daily wear gym shorts. They’re perfect for taking a stroll down the boardwalk and for lounging on the beach. Some swim shorts stick out like a sore thumb when men try to wear them in public, but this style will blend in nicely. They’re very convenient, especially if you live in a beach or lake town. 

    As for the colors and patterns for men’s swimsuits, they’re pretty simple. Big thick stripes and color block swimsuits are quite common. The stripes are usually horizontal, but the placement of the color blocks change from suit to suit. The large color blocks can be fun and bright, but this is the only colorful trend for men.

    Prints are still on-trend but beware not to go over the top. Simple is best, or a large print, as long as it’s not too busy. Anything too vivid can be seen as immature or like you just walked out of a fraternity party. The swim shorts should work within his usual wardrobe, so his shirts, shoes, and accessories match when he’s in public.

     

    Kid’s Swimsuit Trends 

    Children’s swimsuits are always so much fun because they can get away with wearing bright colors and bold prints. Childhood is the best time to wear a fun and funky color combination! Plus, it makes them a lot easier to find at the beach or pool. So, any bold pattern and color you can find will be great. 

    As for the style of girls’ swimsuits, most of the necks will come up pretty high, which is great because you’ll have to apply sunscreen on a smaller surface area. A ton of swimsuits are also featuring ruffles this season. Ruffles add a dash of cuteness to every outfit, so they’ll be perfect for your kiddo. 

    Boy’s swimsuits will be very similar to the men’s regarding the cut and design. More colorful options are available, but you’ll still have a hard time finding any crazy prints. You’ll also find a lot of the stripes and color blocks that were mentioned in the men’s section.

     

    The most important aspect of children’s swimsuit trends is that the kids are comfortable. In fact, that’s something everyone should pay attention to when looking for swimsuits this year. Be kind to yourself and to your body. You deserve to wear a swimsuit with confidence while you’re enjoying the summer. 

  • Summer Date Night Ideas

    Summer Date Night Ideas

    The summertime is full of opportunities for romance and alone time, and you need to take advantage of them. You only have a few months of summer activities before we’re back to corn mazes and pumpkin patches. It’s been a whole year, so you might need a reminder of what your summer date night options are, so we made this cheat sheet for you!

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    At Home Summer Dates 

    Movie nights are always a great at home date idea, but in the summer, you can really up your game. All you’ll need is a white sheet and a projector, which are very affordable online. Connect the projector to your laptop, and you’ll have every movie ever made at your fingertips. 

    If you’re lucky enough to have a pool in your backyard, nothing is stopping you from lounging in the pool or on a raft together as you watch the movie. Don’t forget the snacks and drinks. An ice-cold margarita will never disappoint on date night. 

    When you and your partner feel competitive, spend the evening playing lawn games like corn hole, horseshoes, and croquet. Playing games creates an opening to have meaningful quality time on your date. Make it interesting and raise the stakes by making the loser cook or do the dishes. Just make sure it’s all in good fun. 

    Cooking together is a classic date idea, but when you’re on a date night, cooking and cleaning can take all the fun out of the night. Instead, order one item from all of your favorite take-out places and turn your kitchen into a buffet. It’s so much easier than cooking a whole meal, and you can both order exactly what you want. 

    Game nights don’t usually make date night lists, but there’s no reason why board games can’t make a great date night! There are a bunch of amazing two-player games on the market that are specifically created to work with only two people. While you’re playing, you’ll be able to learn more about your partner’s problem-solving skills and whether or not they’re a sore loser.

    Affordable

    Make date night an entire night by packing up your car and driving out into a field or a park. Set up a tent or fill the back of a truck with blankets and pillows and go stargazing. You can technically stargaze at any time of the year, but there’s no better time to be outside than on a warm summer night.

    Adventurous and sporty couples have a million choices for affordable summer date nights. Hiking is always a great option because it allows for so many different opportunities. You can go on a serious hiking trail that will take you 10 miles into the forest to a romantic waterfall, or you can keep it short and sweet. 

    Hiking doesn’t have to be a crazy workout. A lot of parks have hiking trails that only take about 20 minutes to walk. Then, in the end, you’ll be in a gorgeous location with a beautiful view. Stop and take a few photos or have a picnic. There are also hiking trails that lead to a swimming area. 

    Hiking isn’t for everyone, but if you want to get out of the house on a budget, bike rentals are always affordable. Drive over to a new city and bike around town. You’ll find adorable boutiques, candy stores, and restaurants you never knew existed. You can easily spend an entire day exploring a new town and spending quality time together. 

     

    Dates That Will Impress  

    All the dates we’ve mentioned give you the chance to impress your partner, but if you’re looking for a date where you can go all out, these are for you. Put on makeup, wear the dress and heels in the back of your closet, and make your partner weak at the knees. These are some seriously romantic summer date nights. 

    Depending on your favorite alcoholic beverage, head to a brewery, distillery, or vineyard. They all have tastings so that you can find your favorite. Most of them will also have some kind of food menu so that you’re able to stay longer. When you’re done, buy a bottle of your favorite alcohol and go home! Continue the date by remaking your favorite drink with the bottle you purchased, or make a new drink that is completely unique. 

    There’s a summer event that some people can forget about, but it’s a classic summer date night idea. That date is fairs and amusement parks! State fairs or county fairs pop up all the time. They’re full of rides, greasy fair food, and carnival games. If there isn’t a fair by you, amusement parks have the same attractions. Don’t forget to kiss your partner at the top of the ferris wheel. 

    If you need a show-stopping date for an anniversary or another special occasion, consider renting a boat. Yes, it sounds expensive and over the top, but listen. Chartering or renting a small boat for one day isn’t very expensive. Bring champagne, food, and get dressed up. Take a ton of photos when you first set sail so you can jump in the water after a few drinks. It will be a summer date night you’ll never forget. 

    The Perfect Summer Date Night 

    No matter what date you end up going on, there is one essential thing every great summer date night needs: food, any kind of food. If an event lasts for more than two hours, food has to be involved, or people will get cranky very quickly. It doesn’t have to be a huge meal, but stopping for an ice cream cone never hurts anyone. 

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    The other essential thing you need for a perfect date night is the perfect date. When you’re with the right person, anything can be fun and full of laughter. Even if the date is a total bust, you’ll find happiness just being with your partner. So remember, the date doesn’t have to be perfect, you just have to be happy. 

  • AREAS IN YOUR HOME THAT YOU PROBABLY IGNORE WHILE CLEANING 

    AREAS IN YOUR HOME THAT YOU PROBABLY IGNORE WHILE CLEANING 

    By now, you probably have settled on a cleaning schedule for your home. You vacuum, mop, dust, and sanitize all the surfaces of your home, and it looks spotless, but there are always ways to improve. There are a ton of surfaces in your home that you might be neglecting. They can be easy to forget because most of them are out of sight and out of mind.

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    In Your Kitchen

    Let’s start with your cabinets, especially your pantry. Dust accumulates inside and outside of cabinets, so even though the doors are closed, there are still dead skin cells and dander settling down on your pots, pans, and food. They won’t get as dusty because they’re in the cabinet, but it’s a good idea to empty and clean your cupboards and pantry every once in a while. It also allows you to reorganize and get rid of what you don’t use. 

    Cleaning your fridge and freezer is also an excellent idea. Everyone will eventually have some moldy take-out food container in the back of the refrigerator. It gets pushed to the back and forgotten about until an awful odor appears. Cleaning out your perishable food will prevent this from happening and keep your food more accessible. You’ll also have the opportunity to clean any stains on your refrigerator shelves. 

    After you’re finished cleaning the inside of your fridge, try to clean underneath and behind it too. Dust, moisture, dirt, and food all tend to get unintentionally pushed under the refrigerator. If you can, move your fridge out so you can clean the floor. While it’s out, clean the coils on the back of the appliance. They collect dust and cleaning them can help your refrigerator be more efficient. 

    The last major kitchen item you should clean is your dishwasher. It needs a deep clean every few months, and it can go through a cleaning cycle every few weeks. Food particles, soap grime, and water can get trapped in some of the mechanisms. Cleaning your dishwasher will help keep your dishes clean and prevent an unpleasant odor from occurring. 

    In The Bathroom

    The bathroom has the potential to be one of the grossest places in your home, and that’s why you probably pay close attention to all areas of it while you’re cleaning. Still, particles filled with bacteria can be thrown around all areas of the room. Here are some places you might have missed. 

    When was the last time you cleaned and organized the storage space underneath your sink? It’s probably where you store all of your cleaning supplies, but they can’t clean it all by themselves! Our cleaning supplies can get dirty as we make our way through our chores, so it’s always a good idea to disinfect that area now and then. 

    Another place to pay attention to in the bathroom is the nooks and crannies, like in between cabinets or behind the toilet. Spiderwebs will often appear in those areas and collect dust and germs. It only takes a quick dusting and disinfecting wipes to fix the problem. 

    In Your Living Spaces

    Living spaces, like living rooms, dens, and playrooms, are most likely the area in the home you clean the most. The chances are that you vacuum all the time, you’re constantly wiping down the surfaces, and keeping these areas tidy is part of your daily routine. Like the other areas of your home, you may be forgetting some things. 

    You need to start disinfecting your remote controls. It’s a surface in your home that everyone touches regularly. People pick up the remote after they pet the family dog, go to the bathroom, and eat greasy food. Thankfully, they’re also the easiest thing to clean because you just have to wipe them down with a disinfectant wipe. 

    Just like the refrigerator, you should also be cleaning under your living room furniture. Food, toys, trash, and other random things can end up hanging out under your sofa with a ton of dust bunnies. A quick vacuuming will do the trick. Actually, it’s a good reminder to clean under all of your furniture, in all rooms of your house.

    Cleaning your washer and dryer is great to do every few months. Like the dishwasher, water and grime can accumulate in the washer. Cleaning the dryer is even more critical because built-up lint can become a fire hazard. You might even get lucky and find some money in your dryer if someone left it in their pants pocket! 

    In The Bedroom

    Unfortunately, cleaning your sheets and pillowcases just isn’t enough to keep your bed clean. Every few months, or weeks, you should also be cleaning your mattress and pillows. Your sheets keep most of the grime off your mattress, but some sweat is going to get through. If you don’t want to clean your mattress, you can put a plastic cover under your sheets. It will keep your mattress looking brand new. 

    This next cleaning tip applies to your whole house, not just your bedroom, but you have to dust and wash your curtains. Fabric attracts dust like it’s made of double-sided tape. Dusting and vacuuming your curtains once a week helps, but eventually, you’ll have to take them down and wash them. Don’t forget to dust your blinds too! 

     

    Around The House 

    People often overlook ceiling fans and light fixtures when they’re dusting because they tend to be out of sight and out of mind. Still, it’s important to clean them, especially ceiling fans. If you turn on a dusty ceiling fan, it will spread the dust everywhere in the room and potentially cause someone’s allergies to flare up. 

    A lot of people also overlook their windows because curtains or blinds cover them. You should clean the windowsill, the glass, and the screen, especially when it’s spring. Plus, cleaning your windows is a great reminder to open them every once and a while! 

    All the items on this list don’t have to be done every week but consider putting them on a list to do every other week or once a month. Please, don’t forget about them! Cleaning these areas will help you keep your home beautiful. 

     

  • Home Décor For Summer 2021

    Home Décor For Summer 2021

    It’s time for you to update your home décor! New and exciting trends emerge every season, and it’s your job to decide how and if they’ll be incorporated into your home. You’re done with spring cleaning; now it’s time to take it one step further with new home décor. 

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    The Style

    Once again, everyone loves the rustic and cottage care styles. People are spending less time in their homes now that the warm weather is here, making people yearn for something simple. Life outside the comfort of your home can be so overwhelming, so let’s turn your home into a safe space where you can relax. 

    Aim for a rustic farmhouse motif for a calming aesthetic. This summer is all about trying to make your home light and airy, no matter what style you end up with. Keep everything clean and get rid of all the clutter and junk that’s thrown around your home. The key is to have excellent organization skills.

     

    Colors and Textures

    The colors and textures for this summer play into the light and airy farmhouse style. Look for neutral and natural warm tones that will lighten up your space. Lighter shades are the better option for summer but don’t be afraid to add a darker accent color, like a walnut finish or a chocolate brown. 

    You’ll mainly be working with a variety of cream and tan colors. They create an excellent backdrop for natural and nature items like natural wood or plants. Plants are always a great way to incorporate some life into your room. Don’t worry. If you don’t have a green thumb, fake plants work just as well! 

    Rattan accents have been on trend for a while, and it doesn’t seem like they’re going anywhere. This material is perfect when you need to add some dimension and texture into the room. Rattan is easy to find and easy to style. It’s almost always a natural wood color so that it will work within any color pallet. 

    Still, we’re talking about summer, so I bet you’re wondering when the bright and fun colors will come into play. If you’re a person who loves statement colors and accent décor, I have good news. This year, home décor for summer is being taken over by the color blue!

    The statement color is a bright blue, almost cerulean. It’s the kind of blue you think of when you imagine the summer sky, tropical beaches, and nautical décor. When you decide you want to liven up your space, a few essential home décor items in this bright blue will do the trick. 

     

    Furniture Trends 

    If you’re looking to completely redecorate, these are the furniture trends that have people running to the furniture store. Even if you’re not redecorating, you probably have a few items in your home that you want to replace. Now is your perfect opportunity. 

    We’re still following the light and airy style for summer, so you should be looking at furniture with rounded edges. Keep an eye out for circle or oval tables, round ottomans, and even rounded sofas. These edges will soften the space and give it a more calming aura.

    This summer’s natural features also apply to furniture. Wood and stone pieces are rapidly growing in popularity. Wood, especially when it’s worn in and thrifted, is in high demand because it gives the home a lived-in look that matches the farmhouse style. Stone, specifically raw and sculpted stone, will add texture and definition to an otherwise flat space. 

     

    New Additions

    There are some smaller and more affordable home décor options, other than furniture to add to your home. For example, floating shelves have been popular for years, but their slick and minimalistic look keeps them on-trend in every season. Plus, more shelving and wall décor is always a bonus. 

    If you’re struggling to find ways to incorporate the bright blue statement color, sea glass is a great place to start. You can find a lot of sea glass-styled pieces in bright blue and green. It can also help tie in more natural elements. Remember, the sea glass doesn’t have to be authentic. You can go to any home décor store and find artificial sea glass. 

    Finally, everyone and I mean everyone, is adding wallpaper in their homes. Wallpaper isn’t for old ladies anymore. It comes in so many different styles, patterns, and textures; everyone can find a wallpaper that matches their aesthetic. Whether it’s temporary or you glue it down, it will jazz up your space.

    Don’t feel obligated to wallpaper your entire home or even a whole room. You can use wallpaper as an accent wall, for the interior of cabinets, or to line your closet. Don’t be afraid to be creative and bold when utilizing wallpaper. 

    Things to Ditch

    As new home decor trends come in, some have to go out. Here are the things in your home that the experts are telling you to ditch. Some of them might be hard to part with, but you’ll feel great after you’re finished redecorating.  

    First, you’re going to want to ditch anything that is single-use. As you’re incorporating new trends, consider how it’s impacting the environment and the world around you. Try ditching paper towels for reusable ones. Instead of cheap sponges, get some of the natural biodegradable ones. A lot of these products are well made and pleasant to look at. You’ll be helping the planet while helping your home’s overall aesthetic. 

    You’ll also want to get rid of your curtains if you can. Curtains can make the room feel heavier and darker, even in the summer. Let the natural light flood your home and ditch the curtains. All they do is take up wall space, prevent light from coming in, and collect dust. 

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    This summer, you don’t have to change every aspect of your home to be trendy. Take a few of these elements, the ones that are easy to add to your home, and incorporate them. You don’t need to add everything that’s on this list. Just take some inspiration and make it your own. 

     

  • HOW TO DECLUTTER KIDS TOYS-AND KEEP IT THAT WAY

    HOW TO DECLUTTER KIDS TOYS-AND KEEP IT THAT WAY

    Decluttering your kid’s toy area can not only be stressful but emotional. It’s difficult getting rid of toys that they’ve been playing with for so long, but once your child has outgrown them, all they’re doing is collecting dust. Even though it may cause a problem or even a temper tantrum, you have to declutter, and there’s no better time than spring cleaning. 

    Get ready to throw out the old and welcome the new. These playroom decluttering tips will help you expel all the unwanted, unloved, and unused toys in your home. 

    Where To Start

    Since getting rid of toys can be so emotional, it’s best to start with the easiest items to get rid of. If they’re broken or damaged, throw them in the trash. Next, check to see if there are any duplicates. No child needs four different “make your own slime” kits. One is enough, especially if they’re not using it regularly. 

    More easy toys to throw away are ones that are missing pieces. Board games are notorious for this problem, but so are card games and some dolls with specific accessories. When it’s not possible to use a toy for its original purpose, get rid of it. 

    After that, you can start at the top and work your way down. Go through the shelves, bookshelves, and the closet looking for forgotten items. If they’re stored away in a tub, collecting dust on a high shelf, or hidden in the back of the closet, you don’t need it in your home. 

    Another great way to start is by asking your kids what toys they don’t want anymore or which ones they don’t play with. Tell them that you’re going to donate the toys to other children who will really appreciate them and play with them all the time. Sometimes, knowing that the toys are going to a good home instead of a landfill can soften the blow of losing toys. 

     

    Get The Kids Involved

    Including your kids in the decluttering process can give them valuable life skills. It can help them learn what items they value, when to keep those items, and when to move on. Plenty of adults have issues letting go of material objects, which can be a massive detriment to them. So, get your kids to start decluttering sooner rather than later.

    It’s important to ease them into the process. One of the best ways to do that is to have a couple of similar toys lined up for them to choose from. Gather all of their dollhouses, toy cars, and action figures and allow your child to see how similar they are. Then, let them choose which one to keep and which ones they’re willing to part with. 

    Once they decide and they’re ready to get rid of the other similar toys, make sure you praise them! Getting rid of material belongings as an adult can be challenging, but it can be even worse as a kid. These are some of their very first possessions, and they can hold some powerful memories. 

    Encouraging them to continue to declutter and reassuring them that they will get new toys in the future will help them let go. Remember, you’re not replacing these items any time soon, but when the holidays and birthdays come around, your house will be filled with toys again. 

     

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    What Can You Do With The Toys

    Once everyone has come to their final decisions of what toys you should keep and what toys you should get rid of, it’s up to you to decide how you’ll get rid of them. Luckily, you have a few options. You already know that if a toy is broken or missing pieces, it’s time to throw it in the trash. 

    The tricky part is deciding what to do with the toys that are still in working order. You basically have two choices. You can donate them, or you can sell them. 

    When you donate them, you can donate them to a thrift store, a place that receives donations and gives them to the less fortunate, or you can give them to your friends and family who have younger kids. It doesn’t matter where you donate them, as long as they’re out of your house.

    You have a few different options when it comes to selling toys. Online markets, like Facebook and LetGo, are great if you only have a few toys to sell or if you’re willing to sell in bulk. Selling a lot of toys individually online can take a lot of time and effort, and it might not be worth it. 

    The other option is a garage sale. I love garage sales for a few reasons. For one, you can get your kids involved! They can help price the toys, set them out on display, and they might even get to see what child will be able to enjoy it next. 

    Selling toys is also an excellent option for when your child has a hard time letting go of the items. Talk to them and ask them what they want to do with the money once their toys are gone. Take them to their favorite restaurant or have a pizza party with the money. It will be easier for them to let go of the old toys when they have something new to look forward to. 

    Other Decluttering Tips

    Do your best to let go of the guilt that comes with getting rid of so many toys. In the end, you’re doing the right thing for your home, yourself, and especially your kids. They don’t need to be overstimulated with options when they can use their imagination and the toys you’re keeping. 

    If you know one or more of your children won’t be happy with losing some toys, start the process when they’re not around. Start during nap time, while they’re at school, or on a playdate. You know what toys your kids play with. They might not even notice that these toys are gone. 

    Once all you’re finished decluttering, create a system. The best method to keep your home decluttered is the one in and one out approach. If your child wants another toy or gets another toy for a holiday, it’s time to get rid of one. That way, you’ll always have the same number of toys in your home, no matter what. 

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    Be strong and keep decluttering until you’re left with toys that have value to your child. This process can be challenging now, but once your house is clean and junk-free, everyone will feel much better. Then you can start decluttering your own space!

  • How To Make Valentine’s Day Special In 2021

    How To Make Valentine’s Day Special In 2021

    This year’s Valentine’s Day will look different, just like every other holiday or special occasion in the past 365 days. That means you need to put in extra thought, time, and effort to make it special. Going out to a fancy restaurant isn’t going to feel as romantic or glamorous when your mask smears your lipstick. You might need to make adjustments to your usual plans. 

    Now, this is when you either read this article by yourself and take some inspiration from it or send it to your significant other. There’s no shame in giving your partner a few hints. Either way, these tips will help you have the best Valentine’s Day possible.

    Gifts

    The fact is that we center this holiday around gifts and romantic gestures. The latter will be covered in the next section, so let’s focus on the gifts for now. You can always go big and hit it out of the park with an expensive piece of jewelry, but that’s not always possible. It’s also a high standard to set for the next few years.

    Instead, the gift you give your partner should hit them right in the feelings. Don’t focus on the red hearts and drug store flowers. Instead, focus on them as a person and then add Valentine’s flair. This will not only make you look thoughtful, but it is also going to impress your partner.

    For example, if they stare at computer screens all day, you can get them a nice pair of blue light blocking glasses. Choosing a pair that they love will show them that you pay attention to their style and daily needs. It’s also an out of the box item that people might not think to buy for themselves. Those items make the best gifts. 

     

    Gifts don’t always have to be physical or something you paid for. Take a deep dive into your hobbies and see what you can make. The most romantic thing you can ever get your partner is something that you’ve created.

    Writing a song or painting a picture for them are good examples, but almost any hobby or interest can produce a romantic gift. If you can’t think of how to turn your hobby into a present, write your significant other a poem or letter instead. It will be cheesy and romantic, but I guarantee you that they will cherish it forever. 

    Then, once you have the main gift, you can always supplement it with the stereotypical candy, flowers, and teddy bears. Especially the candy. Everyone wants chocolate on Valentine’s Day. 

    Romantic Gestures 

    Okay, this is when you have the opportunity to show off and make a memory. Your options of what you can do outside of your home will vary depending on where you live, but what you can do inside will stay the same, so let’s start there. 

     

    Indoors

    Let’s begin with the stereotypical but still romantic gestures. The one that comes to mind is that movie or TV scene when rose petals are thrown on the floor leading to a beautiful dinner. Typically candles, flowers, and home cooking are involved. 

    It’s almost a guarantee that your partner has dreamed of this actually happening to them. So why not make their dreams come true? It could be challenging to pull off because the holiday is on a Sunday this year, but it’s not impossible.  

    Send them out in the afternoon to go shopping for a few hours. You can also make an appointment to get their nails or hair done when you want to set up. This can throw them off their game, especially if you say that the appointment is the gift. They won’t be expecting the big surprise when they get home!

    If you prefer something more low-key, just make a romantic homecooked meal. Make your partners favorite appetizer, dinner, and dessert, or make it with them! Cooking together can be very romantic, and it can also a fantastic bonding experience. 

    Valentine’s Day, especially when you’re staying at home, the most important thing is to spend quality time together. The meal, movie, atmosphere, or anything else won’t matter if you aren’t giving your partner individual and meaningful attention. 

     

    Outside The Home

    If you are entirely compelled to go out for Valentine’s this year, safety and isolation should be your number one concern. Whatever you do, don’t hope that restaurants will have tables available when you show up that night. Make a reservation well in advance! Also, ask about their policies and what precautions the restaurant is taking to keep everyone safe. 

    Tables fill up quickly every year, and now, because of COVID, there will be even fewer tables to go around. Most regulations have cut seating in half so that the restaurant can spread out the tables as far as possible. Don’t get caught without a reservation, trust me. 

    If you live in the north half of the country, celebrating at home or a restaurant is probably your only option. It’s too cold to eat outdoors, and everything might be covered in snow by then! Still, if you live in an area of the country where the weather is warm all year round, you still have plenty of options available to you. 

    Daytime picnics are the peak of romantic gestures. Wear comfortable but cute outfits, break out a bedsheet and eat in a park. The meal doesn’t even have to be some fancy and over the top event. Buy a sandwich from a local shop on your way to the park or grab a coffee at Starbucks. 

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    I could say it a million times, and it’ll still be relevant; Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to be expensive to be meaningful! You don’t have to spend hundreds of dollars to have a special day, even in a pandemic. Being thoughtful and compassionate will always be more important than the price tag. I hope you have a memorable and safe Valentine’s Day filled with love for you and your partner. 

  • How To Honeymoon In 2021

    How To Honeymoon In 2021

    You’ve gotten married during the pandemic. Now, it’s time for you to honeymoon during it too. Right off the bat, it seems overwhelming and nearly impossible to have the honeymoon of your dreams, but there’s still hope. 

    With the right idea, a lot of planning, and some research, you can still have a fantastic honeymoon. It might even be better than what you would have originally planned. The reality of the situation is that it’s still COVID season, but that doesn’t have to stop you from having fun.

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    Honeymoon Ideas

    You have a few great options for a honeymoon in 2021, but no matter what you choose, you should try and limit your interactions with other people as much as possible. The best way to do this is by selecting an all-inclusive package.

    This will prevent your credit cards, cash, and other items from being handled by other people when you go out to eat or drink. Limiting cross-contamination from you to employees and other guests is very important when traveling this year.  

    If your trip doesn’t have an all-inclusive package, buy food and supplies before you get to your destination. Keep snacks, microwaveable meals, and drinks in your room. Bring everything you’ll need so you don’t have to go to the store unnecessarily.

    Keep It Private

    Honeymoons are the best time to splurge and stay at that expensive hotel. Go one step further and achieve the ultimate level of privacy in a private villa at a resort. Villas are usually all-inclusive, and you are alone for 90% of your trip.

     

    This is amazing, not only because of COVID but also because you’ll want to spend that one-on-one time with your partner anyway. A do not disturb sign won’t be necessary because no one would disturb you in the first place. 

    If villas aren’t your style, there are more casual ways to keep your honeymoon private. For example, there are sites and parks where you can go glamping. It might not sound like a great option at first, but I beg you to look into it!

    The only way it’s similar to camping is that you can have a fire, and you’re probably going to be in the woods. That’s it. Glamping has amenities, bathrooms, and even cable and internet in some areas. I honestly don’t even know why they call it glamping; it can be more luxurious than some hotels. 

    Another private honeymoon option is to go on a self-guided road trip. Road tripping is also one of the safest travel options right now because you don’t have to fly anywhere or be in a closed-off space with strangers.

    Plus, road trips will give you a considerable level of freedom regarding what you do. Stop at all the big attractions or take your time to wander all the small towns you pass. Google will be your best friend when you’re deciding where to head next. 

    Hit up all the romantic spots and watch the sunset from every state you visit. Any couple seeking a ton of quality time on your honeymoon should consider a road trip, even if it only lasts a week. I think it’s also important to say that this is also a very affordable option for newlyweds on a budget. 

     

    Save It For 2022

    It stinks to say, but another option is just to put off your honeymoon until there are no restrictions. If the big showstopper of a honeymoon is important to you, chances are you’re not going to get it in 2021. Even if places are open, a lot of the extras aren’t available. 

    Here’s my proposal, have a minimoon in 2021 and your big honeymoon in 2022. I think this is a great idea, with or without the pandemic. Weddings are expensive, and so are honeymoons. Give your wallet a break by taking a small minimoon after your wedding.

    Visit that destination that’s only a few hours away from your home. Wander into the next state, eat at some of the restaurants, and visit the local shops. I’m willing to bet there is a city near you that’s on your bucket list. Minimoons are more of a day or overnight trip, not a full-blown weeklong vacation.

    Since honeymoons in 2021 are going to look different than any other year, it’s worth mentioning that it’s not uncommon to take your honeymoon on your first or even fifth anniversary. My point is, even if you don’t have the big trip this year, you have the rest of your lives. You won’t miss out on anything. It’ll all be there once the world is open again. 

     

    Stay At Home

    I’m going to keep this short because I know it’s not what you want to hear, but I have to mention it. Staycations can be very romantic and give you unforgettable memories. It’s the safest honeymoon on this list because the risk is almost non-existent. 

    If you want to get out of your house, rent a hotel room or home in your area. I can’t blame you for craving a change of scenery, but that craving doesn’t mean you have to fly across the county. Seek out unique homes for rent or luxurious hotel rooms. It should scratch that itch.

    Things To Consider

    Of course, there are some things you should think about before you leave. For instance, what regulations your state and the place your visiting have in place. This is super important because you need to know if you’ll be forced to quarantine at your destination or when you come home. 

    Try not to make your trip too long, especially if you’re planning on traveling internationally. Regulations and quarantines can change in an instant. Have a backup plan, so you don’t get trapped in a foreign nation. 

    On the other hand, many countries, destinations, airlines, and hotels are giving travelers major discounts. Even Disney is offering some cheap rooms to attract visitors. In this way, you lucked out. Look into several airlines and hotels to get the best bang for your buck.

    Safety needs to be a priority if you honeymoon in 2021. Stay within your and your partner’s comfort zone. Don’t travel anywhere that feels unsafe and get a COVID test before leaving and coming back. As always, don’t forget to wear a mask and always wash your hands. Stay safe and have a good trip!

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  • How To Show Off Your New Last Name

    How To Show Off Your New Last Name

    After the wedding, it takes a lot of time and effort to properly change your name on all your bills, credit cards, subscriptions, and everything else. After exuding all that energy into telling banks and strangers about your name change, it’s time to show off your new last name in fun and beautiful ways.

    Here’s a list of items you can get to show off your awesome new last name!

    Personalize Your Home

    The second someone approaches your home, let them know that the new Mr. and Mrs. live there. Get a personalized or monogrammed doormat that will welcome any visitors and give you a daily reminder of the best day of your life.

    There has been a big uptrend in hanging personalized signs in your home, specifically ones that say your last name and the year you got married. There’s a good reason for this; they’re adorable. Hundreds of variations are being sold online, which gives you the opportunity to discover the sign that will fit perfectly in your home.

    They can vary in font, style, and what they say. Some have sayings like “Bless This Home”, others have first names incorporated, and some thrive on simplicity. Take your time until you find the one that will look perfect over your fireplace.

    I love it when couples get the signs with GPS coordinates on it from the spot of their first date, kiss, or even their wedding. It’s so sweet, and it gives the sign a super personal touch. No one else will ever have the same one.

    Don’t keep the customization in only your living room. You can get Mr. and Mrs. bedroom décor to put above your side of the bed or your side of the closet. Get monogrammed dish and bathroom towels. You’ll have your Pinterest dream house in no time.

    Although it’s seasonal, holiday ornaments and signs can also be completely customized with your name. If you don’t get an ornament or sign that says, “The Smith’s First Holiday”, are you even married?

    It’s worth mentioning that you shouldn’t let the price tags of these items intimidate you. There are plenty of options that won’t break the bank, including signs that you can print out at home and put in thrift store frames. Customizing doesn’t have to be expensive!

    Through The Mail

    After the wedding, the people at the post office will be your best friends. Think about the dozens of letters and thank you notes you’re going to have to send. It may feel like a burden to write out a ton of notes, but buying new return address labels will brighten your mood!

    Don’t be afraid to use your new return address labels on more than just thank you notes. Stick them on birthday cards, holiday cards, even any bills you have to mail in.

    To top off your return address labels, go ahead and customize your mailbox. It may seem like a little bit of an overkill at first, but hear me out. Whether you buy a waterproof decal and stick it on your current mailbox or buy a new professionally designed mailbox, it’s a cute and subtle way of showing off your new family name.

    On The Go

    These on the go options are super fun because they are small and you can use them every day. For instance, you can get an engraved or monogrammed to-go cup. You have coffee every morning anyway; you might as well jazz it up with a personalized mug.

    If you’re more of a water drinker, that’s fine! Customized water bottles or tumblers will have the same impact. Any to-go cup can be extremely personalized. You’ll be able to flaunt your new last name while still maintaining your personal identity while designing the rest of the cup.

    If you want a monogram without any maintenance, like washing your to-go cup, get a car decal. I’m not telling you to put your whole last name on your car, but there are adorable one or three initial monogram decals. They come in a million different colors, fonts, and sizes. All you have to do is apply it to your car and drive away.

    Wear It

    Jewelry is a small and beautiful way to announce your name change. No, I’m not talking about a wedding band; I’m talking about necklaces, engraved rings, and bracelets. Really, any jewelry you can think of can be engraved or designed to display your name.

    Like many of the other items, the jewelry can promote either your full last name, your whole monogram or just your last initial.

    When you got engaged, I hope you got “Future Mrs. Smith” apparel. It was you’re one chance to wear it. Now that you’re married, you have to get at least one “Mrs. Smith”, or whatever your actual last name is, sweatshirt. It’s a right of passage and the only time you can really wear it is right after your wedding, so you might as well!

    Easy To Find

    Craft stores, like Michaels, always have big decorative letters for sale. They’ll even coincide with whatever holiday or season is coming up. They’ll bring out pastel letters for the spring and metallic ones for the fall. It’s a great way to keep your home seasonal while still flaunting your monogram.

    Home stores like the Christmas Tree Shop, Burlington Coat Factory, Home Goods, and other similar retailers will have monogrammed dish towels, placemats, and doormats. If you’re lucky, you could even find dinner and glassware with your new last name’s initial etched into the side.

    Consider this a warning. If you find something you like with your initial on it, buy it. Don’t assume it will be there when you come back. Chances are it won’t be. Every store has a certain number of each letter, and once they’re gone, they’re gone, especially when it comes to holiday items.

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    Search around your local department stores. You’ll be surprised by all of the adorable and personalized items you can find.

  • Fall-inspired recipes to Cook with Your Partner

    Fall-inspired recipes to Cook with Your Partner

    These can be cooked in single servings or small portions. They’re perfect for two people and you can even turn some of them into date nights!

    Breakfast Recipes

    Pumpkin French Toast

    Let’s start off strong with a classic French toast breakfast but make it pumpkin! The moment September hits you can get pumpkin flavored everything. This recipe uses 100% pure pumpkin to transform this breakfast into a fall delight. 

    It’s as easy to make as regular French toast and only takes about 25 minutes before it’s ready. Take it slow and enjoy this meal, it’ll be over before you know it. Make sure to sprinkle on some cinnamon for an extra umph.

    If you’re not a pumpkin person, don’t worry. The next breakfast is exactly what you’re looking for. 

    Maple Bacon Sweet Potato Hash

    This hash can be made for breakfast or brunch, but either way it’s a people pleaser. Your partner will be thrilled when you hand them this dish alongside an apple cider mimosa. 

    Cook eggs on the side or get fancy and add them into the hash. This recipe requires equal amounts of bacon and sweet potato, although I don’t think you can never have enough bacon. The total cook time is a half an hour which will give you plenty of extra time to relax and sip on those mimosas or your coffee. 

     

    Lunch Recipes

    Turkey, Apple, and Brie Panini 

    Other than pumpkin, the next best fall food is the apple. The perfect pairing of apple and brie should be enjoyed all year round, but something about it hits differently in the fall. 

    It’s easy to make this sandwich your own by switching the type of apple you use. What a great way to use the apples you picked at the orchard! Chicken is also a good substitute if you’re not a fan of turkey. Don’t let your lack of a panini maker stop you. Make it a grilled sandwich instead! The total cook time is ten minutes making it an easy go-to fall-inspired recipe. 

    Cranberry Cream Cheese Turkey Sandwich

    Yes, another turkey sandwich, but hear me out. When you’re craving Thanksgiving leftovers, but it’s only October, what are you going to do? You’re going to make this sandwich. 

    It requires four ready to use ingredients and ten minutes of your time. Make it as easy as possible by using deli turkey and canned cranberries. It’ll satisfy that Thanksgiving food craving all fall long. 

     

     

    Dinner Recipes

    Oktoberfest Sheet Pan Brats with Roasted Vegetables 

    Sheet pan recipes are the best and I’ll tell you why. Not only do all of the flavors intermingle while everything is being cooked to perfection, but the clean up only takes about two minutes. It’s one pan and you cover it with aluminum foil for an even easier clean up.

    This means that you won’t have to fight with your partner over dishes or waste precious time scrubbing at pots and pans instead of spending time with your significant other. 

    Make a night of it and do a whole beer tasting that pairs with the brats. That would truly make it Oktoberfest. This meal has a longer cook time of 45 to 50 minutes, but once it’s out of the oven you’ll be ready to eat. 

    Dump-and-Bake Maple Balsamic Chicken 

    This chicken is designed to taste like you spent hours in the kitchen. In reality, it has a quick ten-minute prep-time. The herbs that are combined with the maple scream that fall is here, but once you’ve tried this chicken, I’m sure you’ll make this fall-inspired recipe all year round. 

    The bake time is 30 to 40 minutes, which is just enough time to whip up some mashed potatoes and steamed carrots for the perfect well-rounded meal. Don’t forget to cover everything in the rich maple sauce from the chicken!

    Desserts

    Apple Crisp Stuffed Apples

    Single serving desserts are amazing because it means you’ll never have to fight with your partner over the last bite. These apples are the ultimate comfort food with an impressive presentation. 

    They take 45 minutes to make and then they’re ready to devour. Top it off with vanilla ice cream and caramel sauce. This dessert won’t be complete without it.

    Maple Cheesecake with Roasted Pears

    The best part about this cheesecake is that you and your partner can make it together. A lot of people forget about pears in the fall, but they are a sweet and tasty treat. They’re also a great alternative for when you’re getting sick of pumpkin and apple.

    This dessert serves 8 to 10 people, so you’ll have plenty of leftovers. It also happens to be the perfect midnight snack. It’ll take about an hour to prepare the cheesecake, but the flavors are more than worth the time you’ll invest.

    Honorable Mentions

    These honorable mentions are technically desserts, but really, they’re more like sweet snacks. Take them on a picnic or as a treat while you go apple or pumpkin picking. You won’t regret it. 

    Pumpkin Spice Krispie Treats

    Get taken back to your childhood with this fun revamp of the Rice Krispie Treat. It only takes ten minutes to prep and they’re super fun to make. Warning: you’re going to get sticky.

    If the recipe is going to make too many servings for you, just chop all the ingredients in half so you can get the perfect amount. Although, I don’t know if you can have too many of these.

    Caramel Apple Bark

    I almost drooled when I saw this recipe, so I knew I had to share it. It’s only four ingredients, but it’s a whole lot of “yum”. 

    The only bad part about this recipe is the 30 minutes it has to sit in your fridge so it can become firm. Cut down the recipe (or scale it up, no judgements here!) as much as you need to so it will fit you and your partner’s appetites. 

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    The best part about all these fall-inspired recipes is that you can change it however you want! Switch out some vegetables or the type of fruit. Add some extra spices and make the dish all your own. Happy cooking!