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Tag: Hyphenate Name after Marriage

  • WHAT THANKSGIVING TRADITIONS SHOULD YOU START AS A NEWLY MARRIED COUPLE?

    WHAT THANKSGIVING TRADITIONS SHOULD YOU START AS A NEWLY MARRIED COUPLE?

    Holidays are approaching and as a new married couple, so come questions. You’re a newly formed family now, so you may start to wonder, “what will our holiday traditions be?” Don’t feel as if you’re limited to what your or your spouse’s family did for the holidays. Feel free to keep old traditions and start new ones. These annual festivities will create memories for years to come for both of you and future children if you choose to have them. 

    Need some ideas for traditions to start this Thanksgiving? This list is for you!

    VISIT FAMILY

    The first thing you should decide as a couple when discussing the holidays is how you will spend time with extended family. There is no wrong answer here, as long as you and your spouse are happy with the arrangement. 

    You could choose to visit your family for one holiday and your spouse’s for the other, and vice versa every year. Or, perhaps you would want to extend each holiday over a few days to make sure to visit both of your families for each holiday every year. Another valid choice is to simply focus on your new family, and only visit your extended family every once in a while! Make whatever decision works best for both of you.

    WATCH MACY’S THANKSGIVING DAY PARADE

    Now that you know how you will spend each holiday in regards to family, it is time to decide what you will do together on that day each year. One tradition you could start is to turn on the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. 

    It begins at 9 am in every timezone and ends at noon, streaming on NBC. It is a 2.5 mile parade in Manhattan. November 2021 will be Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade’s 95th year. The annual event was founded in 1925 and is nostalgic to many, so it is seen as a true start of the holiday season. 

    RUN A TURKEY TROT

    Want a fun way to get some activity in before your high caloric holiday meal? Join in on an annual Turkey Trot in your area. Founded in 1896 in Buffalo, New York, the Turkey Trot has grown into a nationwide event where people of all ages gather for a 5 mile race. 

    Because of the Turkey Trot, Thanksgiving beat the Fourth of July as the most popular day to run a race since 2015. It’s known for being family friendly, and a non-competitive race. Being a part of this race is sure to be a memorable tradition to start.

    VOLUNTEER AT A SOUP KITCHEN OR DONATE TO A FOOD PANTRY

    As the holiday is all about gratitude and acknowledging all we have to be grateful for, it is only natural to want to spend the day giving back. As a couple, you could volunteer at a soup kitchen. Or, since soup kitchens can get overrun on this particular day, you could plan for you and your holiday guests to collect canned and non-perishable goods throughout the month to donate to a food pantry.

    CREATE A GRATITUDE JAR

    The idea of a gratitude jar is a year-long endeavor, starting again each year on Thanksgiving. A jar would be set aside somewhere in the home for each family member to write down something they’re thankful for at that moment. 

    The jar would collect these notes throughout the year and be cracked open on Thanksgiving. At dinner, they would be read aloud to reflect on all there was to be thankful for the past year. 

    CREATE A THANKFULNESS TABLECLOTH

    A thankfulness tablecloth is a similar gesture to the gratitude jar. The tradition would start with a light colored tablecloth brought out each year on Thanksgiving. On the tablecloth, each attendee would sign the fabric with their name and something they’re thankful for with a permanent marker. The tablecloth would serve as a time capsule for many years of Thanksgivings together.

    TAKE A COUNTRYSIDE DRIVE

    After bellies are full and a relaxing evening ensues, another tradition to start could be to climb into the car for an evening drive. If the weather allows, crack open the windows, and take in the sights of the color changing leaves. 

    This a great time to have quality, uninterrupted conversation with your spouse and family. You can discuss family members’ wins and goals achieved over the year, and of course everything there is to be grateful for.

    END THE NIGHT WITH BOARD GAMES

    After some relaxing and perhaps even an afternoon nap, you could decide to end your Thanksgiving night with some fun. Pull out the board games, or stick to the classics like cards or charades. Memories of laughter and fun with your spouse and family are sure to last a lifetime.

    ENJOY THE HOLIDAYS

    There are so many ways to spend the holidays with your loved ones, and multiple different traditions you can start as a new married couple. Just remember the most important thing you can prioritize is quality time spent with one another, and being thankful you have each other. Everything else is simply for fun and memories! Hopefully, this list will have given you ideas to create a holiday filled with love and laughter for many years to come.

    Sources:

    https://www.ef.com/wwen/blog/efacademyblog/top-10-thanksgiving-traditions-in-the-us/

    https://www.oprahdaily.com/life/g29378327/best-thanksgiving-wines/

    https://gracelovelife.com/thanksgiving-traditions-couples/

    https://www.yourtango.com/2013198488/date-night-ideas-fun-thanksgiving-activities-couples

    https://people.com/tv/2021-macys-thanksgiving-day-parade-everything-to-know/

    https://www.runnersworld.com/races-places/a20862856/how-the-turkey-trot-became-the-most-popular-race-in-america/

     

  • AT HOME FALL ACTIVITIES

    AT HOME FALL ACTIVITIES

    As fall begins to bring in colder weather, families will start to tuck themselves inside in anticipation for winter. With colder weather also comes cold and flu season, and families may decide to choose to stay in over going out to gatherings and events. 

    Whatever the reason, if your family is spending most of the season at home, you still don’t have to miss out on fall activities. If you’re looking for inspiration on how to bring all of the joy of autumn into your home, look no further. You’re sure to find an idea that will bring you and yours closer together this year’s season.

    BAKE TOGETHER

    One activity that can bring the whole family together and yield an awesome snack is to gather up in the kitchen and bake a loaf of homemade bread. Even if you’ve never tried your hand at baking bread, this beginner bread recipe is for bakers of all experience levels. 

    All you need is bread flour, instant yeast, salt, and water! Four ingredients, and you can bake the loaves with or without a dutch oven. This recipe is sure to be a winner, and you can add seasonings or cheese to make any flavor you like. Or, consider topping the slices with apple butter to get the taste of the season. 

    If you’re going to bake with kids, don’t be afraid to let them get their hands dirty! This will be a great learning experience about how to measure and mix ingredients, as well as a great memory for them. It may even become a new family tradition!

    CRAFT YOUR OWN FALL DECOR

    If you and your kiddos want to get creative, consider DIY-ing your very own fall decor!

    For this recommended craft you’ll need clay, a large leaf, an exacto knife, and an oven safe bowl. With these items you will create your own autumn leaf tray!

    Roll out the clay into a flat sheet, then press the leaf into the clay. Here, you are stamping the shape and pattern of the leaf veins. 

    If your kids are joining you in this craft, make sure they just watch this next step. Use the exacto knife to cut the clay out into the exact shape of the leaf.

    Lastly, drape and mold the leaf over a large bowl, pattern facing down. It’ll bake in this shape according to the clay’s directions, leaving you with a rounded tray in the shape of a leaf! Feel free to paint or decorate your tray however you like. 

    For video directions and more DIY ideas, check out Lone Fox’s YouTube video titled “DIY FALL DECOR You Actually Want To Make!”

    CHEESE AND WINE NIGHT

     

    This idea is more for couples who’d like to tuck in for a romantic evening. Set up some blankets and pillows on the floor or on the couch for a cheese and wine date night. 

    If you’ve never built yourself a charcuterie board, now is the time to try. Cut up your favorite cheeses and meats, grab some crackers, grapes and berries, and add nuts like pecans and walnuts. For a taste of bruschetta, stack a grape tomato, basil leaf, and mozzarella pearl along a toothpick, and drizzle it with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. 

    Pair the charcuterie board with your favorite wine, and cuddle up for a fall movie. Put on a romance like When Harry Met Sally (1989) or Silver Linings Playbook (2012). For some nostalgia or if kiddos are joining you, put on E.T. the Extra Terrestrial (1982) or Disney’s Coco (2017). 

    DIY FAMILY PHOTOSHOOT

    Have a couple of trees with color changing leaves in your backyard? Use them as the backdrop for a family photo shoot! Coordinate a dress code for your family, perhaps by choosing a fall color or dressing in flannel. Whatever the theme, gather outside to take some seasonal photos.

    Before you get the whole family outside for pictures, get some pose ideas ahead of time. You can find inspo on Pinterest or Instagram to have a plan of action before you begin. Feel free to get some more natural candid shots as well! Those often turn out to be the family favorites.

    Of course, if you have one, you can set up a tripod and a fancy camera. However, a smartphone and a way to prop it up works just as well! Utilize the self timer to set up the shot and join the photo before it’s taken. 

    Photos are a great way to hold fast to memories. You can either use them to post on social media, send to family, or even have them printed for you and your loved ones!

    HOST A “FRIENDSGIVING”

    If you don’t want to leave home, but would like to bring the social event to you, consider hosting a potluck “friendsgiving.” It is a great way to celebrate Thanksgiving with your peers or other family friends. 

    Each person brings one part of the meal: the appetizer, the sides, the main dish, the desserts, and the drinks. Feel free to get creative and go outside of the box from the traditional holiday fare.

    Get together and feast up, and don’t forget to play games and dance. This is a great way to extend the holiday season beyond the day you spend with your close family!

    MAKE YOUR OWN PUMPKIN SPICED LATTE

    If you always stop by your favorite coffee shop to get your favorite PSL, consider making the classic fall drink right at home! This pumpkin spiced latte recipe is made with strong coffee that you can brew right at home, so no espresso is required. 

    Most of the ingredients you will already have on hand. You just need milk (dairy or non-dairy), sugar (you can also use honey or maple syrup), coffee (brewed for a strong taste), and vanilla extract for the base. Then, for the pumpkin flavor, you’ll need pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice.

    This warm drink will bring the popular taste of fall right to your home and is sure to be a new go-to recipe!

    FALL INDOORS

    Hopefully, this has given you the encouragement that you can enjoy all the joy and warmth this season brings. Whether that’s by crafting with your children, enjoying a romantic night in with your significant other, or hosting a potluck with close friends!8 You can take advantage of the season all within the comfort of your own home.

     

    Sources:

    https://www.realsimple.com/work-life/entertainment/fall-activities

    https://www.popsugar.com/family/fall-activities-you-can-do-with-your-family-amid-covid-19-47738484

    https://www.inspiredtaste.net/8419/pumpkin-spice-latte-at-home-recipe/

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b_Gug50Gpls

    https://parade.com/1273965/samuelmurrian/best-fall-movies/

    https://sallysbakingaddiction.com/homemade-artisan-bread/comment-page-20/#comments

    https://natashaskitchen.com/charcuterie-board/

    https://chatbooks.com/blog/diy-family-photo-shoot

     

  • SIX UNIQUE U.S. DESTINATIONS PERFECT FOR YOUR FALL HONEYMOON

    SIX UNIQUE U.S. DESTINATIONS PERFECT FOR YOUR FALL HONEYMOON

    Before returning home and getting to some of those mundane after-wedding tasks, (like unpacking wedding gifts, writing thank-you notes, and changing your name) the honeymoon is a much-needed time for newlyweds to escape and relax after months of stressful wedding planning. The following list is compiled for the couple that desires a honeymoon that’s off-the-beaten-path. Each destination brings with it a touch of autumn through either beautiful fall foliage via its natural forests, or its host of seasonal activities. Whether you’re looking for an adventure, or to unwind in the spa, each of these underrated locations have something for every couple to enjoy.

    SIGHTSEE IN WOODSTOCK, VERMONT

    Killington Resort, located on Woodward Mountain in Woodstock, Vermont, is a venture for couples who wish to take advantage of the sights as well as the slopes. Killington Ski Resort is the largest ski area of the eastern US, and has the largest vertical drop at 3,050 feet. For a more peaceful excursion, enjoy gondola rides and snowmobile tours. After a long day at the slopes, rest by enjoying the Killington Grand Spa. Explore sights outside the resort and visit “Vermont’s Little Grand Canyon,” as the Quechee Gorge is called. It is a sought after tourist destination, being the deepest gorge in Vermont, at 165 feet deep. For the artsy couple, take an arts workshop or class at the Artistree Community Arts Center.

    UNPLUG AT ADIRONDACKS, NEW YORK

     

     

     

    Amongst the Adirondack Mountains, The Point Resort in New York provides its guests with an experience reminiscent of former, simpler times. With limited wifi and cellular service, this resort is perfect for the couple that wishes to spend their honeymoon unplugged and surrounded by nature. In addition to sightseeing and miles of hiking trails, visitors can enjoy specialty boat tours along Lake Gorge. Outside the resort, Adirondacks also offers scenic drives and byways. The Revolutionary Trail is a byway that features beautiful woodlands and valleys as well as historic sites along the way. As an added bonus, if you’re a couple who has a furry friend that would love to tag along, The Point Resort happens to be pet friendly! GET

    PAMPERED IN CAREFREE, ARIZONA

    A prime location for the golf enthusiast, Boulders Resort & Spa outside Carefree, Arizona is the perfect romantic getaway. Try your hand at one of the two Jay Morrish-designed world class golf courses. Enjoy the award winning spa in which they utilize ingredients from Boulder’s desert environment. Get a Boulder’s Stone Massage using ancient basalt stones and the spa’s signature blue cypress and vetiver oil blend. All massages can be enjoyed as a couple’s massage, and can be upgraded to include a private suite and private outdoor jacuzzi. Explore Carefree’s Desert Gardens to visit USA’s largest sundial built in 1959. For the fall season, the Desert Gardens also features the Enchanted Pumpkin Garden. If fitness is your forté, take advantage of the scenery and fresh air with the Desert Garden’s outdoor yoga and zumba!

    ADVENTURE IN CLE ELUM, WASHINGTON

    Just outside Seattle, Cle Elum is a river town that any thrill seeker would love. The Suncadia Resort offers exciting activities to their guests such as axe throwing and archery. For the more low-key couple, feel free to enjoy the Cle Elum River float trip or play a game of golf on the 6,400 acre property surrounded by the Cascade Mountains. Outside the resort, head to Three Peaks Outfitters to enjoy some horseback riding along the Alpine Lakes Wilderness. After such an adventurous day, unwind back in the resort’s spa with their Salt Soak Service.

    EXPLORE CHETEK, WISCONSIN

    From this list, this location offers the most quaint experience for newlyweds. Designed with couples in mind, Canoe Bay Resort is a 300 acre resort tucked away in the Chetek forests. The private cottages are built for two, perfect for a relaxing getaway. Couples can enjoy hiking trails, canoeing or kayaking, and exploring Canoe Bay Gardens, all while staying within the Resort. For all the book-loving guests, the resort also has its own library with a canopied patio. If you should find yourself meandering outside the resort, you can explore Chetek’s six lakes, or catch a movie at the StarDust Twin Drive In Movie Theatre.

    PLAY AND UNWIND AT  TELLURIDE, COLORADO

    Telluride, Colorado is a beautiful destination that has a lot of variety to offer. Get a luxury room in the resort lodging within Telluride Ski Resort. In colder months at the resort, visitors can try their hand at skiing the slopes or even ice climbing. Outside the resort, head into The Mountain Village to enjoy hosted events and free gondola transport. Check out the Telluride Arts District and enjoy multiple seasonal events such as “Funktober” and “Koto Halloween Bash.” Go off the beaten path to find Telluride’s appropriately named Bridal Veil Falls, the tallest free falling waterfall in the state of Colorado.

    WRAP UP

    Fall is one of the most romantic seasons, and any of these locations are perfect for any newly married couple to get away and embrace the season together. Hopefully, this list gave you an idea or two for your under-the-radar honeymoon, or at least made its way onto your bucket list! Regardless, the important thing is to choose a destination that packs the perfect amount of fun and relaxation specific to you and your spouse so you can return from all your wedding festivities rested and rejuvenated.

     

     

    SOURCES:

    https://www.brides.com/gallery/unexpected-us-honeymoon-destination-ideas https://thepointresort.com/home/activities/fall-winter/ https://visitadirondacks.com https://www.dot.ny.gov/display/programs/scenic-byways/revolutionary-byway https://www.destinationhotels.com/suncadia-resort/washington-state-resorts https://www.3peaksoutfitters.com/services2 https://www.thrillist.com/travel/nation/best-secret-honeymoon-destinations-in-the-usa-honey moon-ideas-in-america https://www.canoebay.com https://www.explorechetek.com https://matadornetwork.com/read/9-underrated-honeymoon-destinations-us/ https://www.tellurideresortlodging.com https://www.uncovercolorado.com/activities/bridal-veil-falls-telluride/ https://www.theknot.com/content/honeymoons-youve-never-heard-of https://www.theboulders.com https://visitcarefree.com https://www.killington.com https://vermontexplored.com/10-perfect-things-to-do-in-woodstock-vermont-in-the-fall/ https://www.woodstockvt.com

  • The Best Halloween Costumes Of 2021

    The Best Halloween Costumes Of 2021

    It’s the most wonderful and spooky time of the year! Halloween is right around the corner and it’s time to look in the back of your closet for your Halloween costume of 2021! Whether you’re going to DIY, buy it from Amazon, or rely on your makeup skills, you need to decide who you’re going to transform into. The faster you decide the better!

    via GIPHY

     

    Women’s Costumes

    When you want to be original and stand on your own, you need a shiny and sparkly costume. One that will let everyone at the Halloween party know that you’re a star. 

    Cruella And Other Disney Villains 

    Cruella is a hot costume this year because of her new Disney movie! The color pallet of red, white, and black was practically made for Halloween. Plus, there’s a few different versions of the costume for you to choose from. You can be a sexy Cruella, a formal Cruella, or any Cruella in between.

    All of the other Disney villains are fair game too! Their costumes are always available, and they never get old. 

    Paris Hilton Or Another Y2K Queen

    Paris Hilton and other Y2K queens, like Britney Spears, are going to be trending for the next few years. The style trends of the 2000’s is coming back into fashion, and everyone is going to bring those trends to their costumes. It’s also a super fun throwback! 

    Classics

    When in doubt, the classic angel, devil, cowgirl, or animal costume is always the right answer. They’re great options for do it yourself costumes and a lot of them rely heavily on makeup that you already own. It’s not hard to find a fun and unique twist that will make your classic costume memorable and fresh! 

     

    Couple’s Costumes

    Couple’s costumes can be a bit tricky. Mostly because you have to convince your partner to wear it! These costumes are the perfect mix of trendy and fun. You and your partner are guaranteed to have an amazing time if you dress up as one of these dynamic duos.

    Wanda And Vision

    This couples costume is going to be HUGE this year! WandaVision was a massive hit when it premiered this year. Everyone fell in love with Wanda and Vision’s relationship. This is going to be one of the hottest costumes of the year. Even though it will be popular, you’re sure to win best costume if you get the makeup and costumes right! 

    Cosmo And Wanda

    Lots of Wanda’s on this list! This one is a bit more of a classic throwback. Any millennial knows exactly who Cosmo and Wanda are, but if you’re not sure, Google the TV show The Fairly OddParents. They’re two cartoon fairies. Wanda is pink and Cosmo is green. All you need to get is wings, wigs, and wands! Everything else is probably in your closet. 

    Joker And Harley Quinn

    Yes, I know. Joker and Harley have been popular for a while now. Still, the new Suicide Movie came out this year and there will be a resurgence of Harley Quinn costumes! To stand out, stay away from the modern version of this couple. Instead, go for the vintage Joker and Harley that everyone recognizes and loves. 

     

     

    Group Or Family Costumes

    Group costumes are the hardest part about Halloween. They require a ton of coordination and cooperation. Plus, you should do your best to make sure they work on their own. After all, you won’t be standing by your group all night! Here are some new and classic options for this year’s group costume. 

    Squid Game And Among Us

    These are the ultimate group costumes for this year. Among Us started our year and Squid Game is ending it. They’re the easiest costumes to find, make, and coordinate. All that’s required is a specific color palate, a hoodie, and maybe some construction paper. It couldn’t be easier or more comfortable. I mean, it doesn’t get any better than jeans and a hoodie. 

    Marvel Characters 

    Marvel characters can be single, couple, or group costumes, but they’re better in a group! How awesome would it be to roll up to the Halloween party as the Avengers? So many new marvel movies and shows have come out in the past year, and the new releases keep the costumes fresh.

    This group costume has another perk. It’s like a never ending costume. If you have a huge group it’s perfect. You can be the Avengers, Guardians of the Galaxy, X-Men, and every villain in the Marvel universe. I swear, there are hundreds of costumes in this category. 

    Classics

    It wouldn’t be a Halloween costume list without some classic group costumes. My personal favorite is the Wizard of Oz, but you can also be the cast of mean girls, powerpuff girls, or the power rangers. There’s no wrong answer when it comes to group costumes. Any tv show, movie, or musical can become a great group costume! 

    What Not To Wear

    Finally, let’s talk about the costumes you should avoid at all costs. Let’s start with the obvious. Stay away from any offensive or culturally appropriated costumes. This includes indigenous peoples head dresses, anything that could be seen as black face, transphobic costumes, objectifying costumes, or body shaming costumes. 

    There’s one more type of costume that unfortunately needs to be added to this list, and that’s any costume that has a COVID or pandemic theme. I hate that this has to be said, but I’ve already seen a few COVID themed costumes. I’m not sure pandemic costumes will ever be appropriate, but I know it’s currently too soon.

    via GIPHY

    Happy Halloween!

    Now that all that icky stuff is out of the way, it’s time to have a happy Halloween! Get creative with your costume. Add your own special twist to a classic or come up with something completely unique. The goal is to have a lot of fun while pretending to be someone else for a night, or a weekend. Stay safe, be spooky, and make sure you take an Uber! 

  • 2021 Fall Home Décor Trends

    2021 Fall Home Décor Trends

    Sometimes, it feels like everyone’s favorite season is fall, and we don’t blame them. The fall activities, warm colors, and cozy textures are enough to make anyone swoon. The trouble is it can become mundane. Every fall blurs into the next because everyone uses the same home décor trends.

    Everyone uses burnt orange, pumpkins, and leaves. It doesn’t feel like there’s anything new or fresh. Well, we’re sick of it. So, we scoured the shelves and internet to find you this fall’s latest home décor trends! 

    via GIPHY

     

    Furniture 

    Let’s start with the larger and more noticeable changes you can make. The first is room dividers. After everyone fell in love with the open floorplan concept, they knocked down all of the walls they could. Now, some people are trying to bring back a more separated and cozy space with room dividers and partitions. 

    You can use them to block off parts of a room or block an archway, so two rooms no longer connect. The great part about this trend is that you can use a room divider if you want total privacy but using a partition will let you keep the energy of the two rooms connected. 

    The partition also gives you an opportunity to decorate another surface and provide more storage. A lot of partitions come with shelves or drawers, so make sure you’re paying attention while you’re purchasing. They can make a huge difference in your space and available storage.

    Another type of furniture you can introduce into your home is a modern cottage style. Cottagecore chic became popular last year, but it’s developed into a modern and urban cottage style. It will give you a rustic vibe while fitting in perfectly with your modern aesthetic. It’s also the perfect styling for fall. 

    To find this style, you should be looking for wood grains, neutral colors, and leather materials. Most items that feature these styles will fit in perfectly with this new modern cottage aesthetic. You will also be able to utilize these pieces in the winter. 

     

    Textures

    All of the designers are loving the tarnished texture on metals this season. In a way, this home décor trend goes hand-in-hand with the modern cottage vibe. You’ll see a lot of distressed wood with cottage trends, and tarnish also provides a well-worn and aged look. Still, the metal shine will add to the modern feel.

    Vegetative textures, like the ones you find on gourds and pumpkins, are also coming into play. Mostly on decorative gourds and squash, but on other home décor items too! This trend is pretty specific to fall, but we’re happy to see that these bumps aren’t being seen as ugly anymore. If they’re good enough for Martha Stewart, they’re good enough for us. 

    Finally, designers are bringing velvet into fall. This traditionally winter texture is expanding its horizons into autumn. Velvet is typically presented in jewel tones, but its entry into fall lets velvet come in oranges, olive greens, and burgundy. 

    Have some fun with this texture. Use it on your couch, bedspread, and your windows. It will warm up any room and give you a beautiful transition into winter. We highly recommend this texture, especially if you’re in an area of the country with very cool falls, like New England. 

     

     

    Color Combinations

    This season’s number one color combination is chocolate and pumpkin! Not only does it sound delicious, but it looks incredible too. Of course, pumpkin orange and dark brown aren’t a new fall trend, but not many people intentionally put them together. 

    You can use this color combination on a large scale, like with your paint color and furniture, or you can create a centerpiece using these colors. Color combinations are the easiest trend to incorporate into your home because you only need a little bit of creativity for it to work in your space.

    Color combos can also be an excellent inspiration for all of your fall crafts! Let’s be honest, autumn is craft season, and it can be challenging to choose your color scheme. Start with chocolate and pumpkin, and then add in some of your favorite greens. You’ll be ready to craft in no time. 

     

    If orange and brown aren’t your thing, black accents are also on-trend. Black accent décor is another easy to incorporate style. You can add it to any room, color scheme, design, or style. Black is the ultimate neutral, and fall is a great season to add this trend to your décor. It will also flow nicely into winter.

    Once again, this is an easy trend to add to your crafts, and because it’s one color, you only need a good can of spray paint. Feel free to update any of your old home décor items by giving it a quick layer of black paint and letting it dry. You can also play around with the different types of textured spray paint to make it more unique. 

    If you do want to go all out with the black accent trend, you’ll still only need a can of paint. Give your dining room a black accent wall, paint your doors black, or paint your kitchen cabinets black. It’s only paint, so if you get tired of it after a few seasons, cover it up! 

     

    Have Fun With It!

    Fall activities are a ton of fun, and that’s the spirit you should take while adding all of these fall home décor trends. Adding new home décor isn’t supposed to be stressful; it’s supposed to be fun. The way you decorate your home should bring joy and comfort to you and your family. 

    Of course, if you’re happy with the traditional fall décor, keep it up! It’s tradition for a reason. The typical autumn color scheme will never go out of style, and pumpkins will always be the perfect addition to your front porch. Mix the old trends with the new ones so you can find your ideal fall style. Whatever you choose, we hope you’re happy with it. 

  • Back To School: Easy After School Activities

    Back To School: Easy After School Activities

    Finding easy after-school activities can be challenging, especially if you’re a working parent or if you have several kids at different skill levels. Thankfully, activities don’t have to be complicated to be fun. Your child probably doesn’t want to think that hard after a long day at school anyway, so the easier, the better.

    The activity you choose should depend on the child’s skill level, age, and most importantly their interests. Easy after-school activities exist so you can keep your child engaged and so that they can explore their interests in a safe setting. They also help your child expand upon their school day. It’s up to you to decide what journey your child takes. 

     

    Combine An Activity With A Snack 

    Let’s start with a childhood classic, practicing math with food. You can teach almost all areas of basic math with food, so why not reinforce their education at snack time? You can use M&Ms, Skittles, cereal, or nuts, and dried fruit. Kill two birds with one stone by incorporating their math homework. If you can figure out how to use this technique with other academic areas, more power to you! 

    For an activity that your kids might enjoy a little more, have them decorate their snack before they eat it. Of course, this is easy to do with cookies or cupcakes, but you probably don’t want to give that to your children every day. So instead, try Jell-O, ice cream made of bananas, or something like that. Let them go wild with sprinkles, fruit, and whipped cream.

    You can also set up a snack bar and let them create their own snack mix for the day. Creating the snack bar and creating the mixes can be separate activities. You can set the bar up with a ton of nutritious food options for them to pick and choose from every day after school. The best part about this is that you don’t have to worry about their snack all week.

     

    Arts And Crafts Activities 

    One of the best activities your kid can do is artistically describe their day and what they’ve experienced. Give them paint, markers, pencils, or any other medium and some paper. Tell them to get their emotions about their day out on paper. It may spark an important and interesting conversation between the two of you that you usually wouldn’t have. 

    Drawing their interpretation of their day is their opportunity to express themselves honestly and authentically. It also allows you to see how your child feels after their day, which gives you a great way to bond. As a bonus, you can keep all of their masterpieces from the entire year and save them in a scrapbook to look back on. 

    Working with playdough or clay is also a great activity. The medium will allow them to create anything thing they want. They’ll also be able to destroy or transform it in a safe and healthy way. At the very least, it will give them something to keep their hands busy if they fidget a lot. That’s a win-win for both of you.

     

    Keeping Your Child Active

    One of the best parts of creating activities for your kids is being able to introduce them to the games you played as a child. Show them how to play hopscotch, H-O-R-S-E, or how to jump rope. If you sit down and think about it, you can probably come up with a ton of fun outdoor games. 

    On rainy days, it can be difficult to get your kids to be active. If you’re desperate to give your kids an athletic activity, YouTube has a ton of workouts aimed at kids. You can also have an indoor dance party. Put on the kid’s favorite playlist and encourage them to sing and dance along. They’ll be hungry for dinner and tired at bedtime!

    With any of these activities, you can give them a challenge or a goal. Push them a little farther every day. The challenge doesn’t have to be crazy. If they’re using the jump rope, tell them to get ten successful jumps in a row. Then, bump it up to 12 the next day. Make it challenging, but not impossible. 

     

     

    Academic Activities

    Reading should be at the top of everyone’s after school activities list. Having good reading comprehension skills will help your child throughout their life as students and into adulthood. Reading after school will show them that reading can be fun and that the library is not limited to educational books.

    If your child is tired of reading after school, have them write a story inspired by what they’ve read. Have them write a side quest for the main character or let them create an alternate ending. Not only will this improve their writing and creativity skills, but it can enhance their love of reading.

    When you want your child to spend more time outside, but they’re not into athletic activities, send them out on a nature hunt. Let them look in your backyard for birds, animals, and insects. Have them take photos of everything they find. Then, they can come inside and start identifying them and learning more about them. 

     

    Create An After School Activity Plan

    For all of these easy after school activities, it only takes a little bit of time to have one activity extend throughout the entire week. Start small on Monday and have them grow and build on their skills as the week progresses. That way, you can save time by focusing on one activity instead of creating a different plan for every day of the week. 

    You can also mix and match different activities on this list to incorporate different aspects of your child’s interests. Make sure you take other activities, homework, and available time into consideration when you’re creating your after school activity plan. Remember that you know your child best, and as long as they’re smiling and happy during the activity, you were successful. 

     

  • What To Know When Buying Your First Home 

    What To Know When Buying Your First Home 

    First comes love, then comes marriage, but a baby carriage isn’t the next step. Before you start building a family, you’ll probably consider buying a home. It’s a great idea! You’ll build equity, you will have complete creative control over the building, and you can live there for decades after you purchase. As exciting as it is, buying a home is also the biggest financial investment you’ll ever make. Here are some basic guidelines to get you started. 

     

    Find A Great Buyers Agent

    A good buyer’s agent will be the difference between you getting your dream home and ending up in a dump. The reality is that all real estate agents work on commission, so their goal is to find you a home. For some agents, this means they will try to convince you a home isn’t as bad as it looks. The roof may be caving in, and there’s mold, but they’ll call it a fixer-upper. 

    Of course, that’s an extreme case, but you have to stay on your toes until you find an agent you can trust. Honestly is a great sign that you’ve found a fantastic buyer’s agent. When you find an agent that doesn’t sugarcoat the problems, you know you’ve found a keeper. 

    Your agent should also be interested in getting to know you as a client. They need to know your goals in life and if you want to have a family someday. A good agent will ask about your job, so they know if you need a home office. They’ll also ask about your timeline for having a family. So they know how many bedrooms you need. 

    A great buyer’s agent should also have an unbelievable amount of patience. Eventually, you’ll know what you need and want in a home, and it will take some time to find a house that you’re willing to buy. Just because you know what you want doesn’t mean it’ll be on the market. If your agent doesn’t have the patience of a saint, they may start to get frustrated with you and put you on the back burner. 

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    Clear Your Schedule

    If you’re in a buyer’s market, you got lucky. If you’re in a seller’s market, good luck. Either way, prepare to go on house tours every weekend. Buying a house isn’t like buying a t-shirt. You can’t go to a real estate website, select the number of bedrooms you want, and then add your dream house to your cart.

    Buying a home is more like purchasing a very specific, expensive, and niche piece of artwork. You might have to wait for it to come on the market, it may not be exactly what you’re looking for, or it may not exist at all. You’ll never know until you see them all. 

    There’s no set day for houses to come on the market, so you need to be prepared for your perfect home to go on the market on a Tuesday morning. Once you see the listing, call your buyer’s agent right away and set up a viewing as soon as possible. If you don’t, there’s a very real chance someone else will buy the house before you even get to see it. 

     

    Don’t Get Discouraged

    It may take a few months for you to find a home you’re willing to put an offer on. Then, it’s still possible that the sellers will reject your offer. There’s also a possibility that you will have several offers rejected, but that’s okay! It happens, and rejected offers are a part of the buying process. 

    If your offers are being rejected, talk to your buyer’s agent about what you can do to sweeten the deal. You can add some contingencies to your offer that will make it more appealing to the sellers. For example, you can offer to postpone the closing date until the school year is over or until the sellers find a new home. 

    When a buyer wants to close quickly, it could leave the seller without anywhere to go. That will force the seller to reject the offer. If you can move the closing date back, it could significantly increase your chances of being accepted. 

    You can also add a clause to your offer stating that you will automatically bid more if someone outbids you. To do this, you and your agent can discuss how much you’re willing to pay for the home. Then, you can give your starting offer, and if anyone outbids you, your bid will automatically be raised to an agreed-upon amount. 

    This will show the sellers that you’re serious about purchasing their home. Even if no one outbids you, having this clause can sway some sellers into accepting your offer over someone else’s. Most people want to know that their old home will be appreciated. 

     

     

    Get The Home Inspection

    While waving a home inspection is technically a contingency that could help get your offer accepted, don’t do it. Don’t let a seller or an agent push you into waving the inspection. Home inspections are an affordable way to diagnose the home with any problems the untrained eye will miss.

    The inspector will look at all the hidden places like crawl spaces, basements, and attics. These areas will hold the majority of hidden problems and any expensive repairs. An inspection will give you a good idea of how much money you’ll have to invest into the property to get it back into working order. 

    Once you receive the inspection report, you can use it to negotiate the final terms of your offer. If any substantial and costly repairs come up, you can ask the seller to fix it or lower the price of the home to cover the cost of the repairs. That’s why you should be concerned if the seller wants you to wave the inspection. They might be hiding something. 

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    House Hunting Won’t Last Forever

    House hunting can be a pain or a hassle, but you have to put it into perspective. The house you buy will be your family home. You’ll host holidays and celebrate birthdays in the dining room. You’ll raise your children there. It would be best to take your time and find the house you love the idea of living in. Please, don’t settle. 

  • 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.  

  • Summer Outdoor Home Décor And DIYs 

    Summer Outdoor Home Décor And DIYs 

    The best part about summertime is finally able to enjoy all of your outdoor space. All of the gardening and landscaping is done, and it’s officially time to decorate and enjoy. It’s also an excellent time to test your DIY skills on some summer classics. It’s never too early to start, so let’s begin. 

    Sitting Area

    An outdoor sitting area has so many possibilities, and it all starts with what type of outdoor furniture you want. Buying plastic or easily washable furniture is a safe bet. Still, if you’re looking for a more luxurious seating arrangement with cushions, you need to make sure it’s all waterproof or water-resistant. 

    Outdoor cushions and pillows are available so they won’t get ruined if it rains or if someone in a wet swimsuit sits down. They’re usually a different material than indoor cushions, and you can find them in an array of colors. It’s also a good idea to get a storage bin specifically for your outdoor cushions, so they’re easy to store and easily accessible. 

    If you can’t find any outdoor pillows or cushions that match your aesthetic, they’re easy to do yourself. There are a million sewing patterns online, and making them yourself gives you the power to choose any design you want. They’ll also be much cheaper if you make them at home. 

    Another item that can bring in a fantastic vibe is an outdoor rug. If your sitting area is on a patio, a rug can complete the look and be practical. Brick, stone, and wood can get hot when it’s been in the sun all day, and they can be rough on bare feet. A rug could provide some much-needed relief.

     

    Fun Accents 

    Accent lighting is all the rage right now. Depending on your aesthetic, you can choose between twinkle lights or Edison lights. Either one will elevate the space and give you more visibility as it gets dark. You won’t have to rely on your porch light and fire pit anymore. 

    In addition to whatever outdoor seating you chose, you can also include a hammock or bench swing. They’re always a lot of fun, and they’re relaxing after a long day of yard work. They will quickly become your favorite spot.

    Fun backyard accents don’t have to be big to make an impact. Having a backyard doormat can make a big difference! It can welcome you and your guests into your backyard, and it can help keep your floors a little bit cleaner if people remember to wipe their feet. Windchimes are another great addition that can add some charm and beauty to your space. 

    These are great options because they’re quick, affordable, and anyone can implement them. When you want to get creative, wind chimes can be a great DIY project. You can add bells, shells, wood, or other materials to create a unique look and sound. Your kids can even help make it! 

    The final accents are plants. In addition to all of the landscaping you put so much hard work into, you can use potted outdoor plants to add depth and dimension to an outdoor sitting area. They’re great because you can easily move them around, and you won’t have to do any digging. Just stick them in a pot, make sure they get enough water, and enjoy. 

     

    For The Kids 

    Kiddie pools are one of the most straightforward outdoor décor items to find and set up. They’ll also keep your kids busy for hours on end. Still, you probably think that a kiddie pool shouldn’t be considered home décor, but you’re wrong! 

    They’re not the ugly hard plastic ones we remember from our childhood. Now, they have gorgeous blowup pools in tons of different colors and designs. It won’t be hard to find a pool that matches your outdoor color scheme. Plus, you can add lights and torches around it to jazz it up.

    When you need a child-friendly DIY project, consider adding a tire swing or rope swing to your backyard. Once you have the supplies, it doesn’t take long to hang them on a tree and let the fun begin. Get the kids involved by buying outdoor paint and letting them decorate the tire swing any way they want, or you can always spray paint it to match all of your other outdoor décors. 

     

    Other Things To Remember 

    Try to keep everything as waterproof or water-resistant as possible. If you can’t, get covers, bags, or bins to store them in. Also, just because something says it’s for outdoor use doesn’t mean it’s waterproof. It’s best if you always double-check.

    This décor will also get dirtier a lot faster than you think. Check to see how easily these items can be washed and use darker colors to hide stains. Outdoor items also tend to get ruined a lot quicker than indoor items; sometimes, they only last one season. Please don’t dump your money into an item unless you think it will last. 

    Consider looking at yard sales and paying attention to store discounts, especially if you need outdoor furniture. Look at different online stores and utilize coupons. Most people are rough on their outdoor décor, even if it’s unintentional. It gets rained on, kids jump all over it, food and drinks get spilled, and animals might even mess with it. Don’t spend any more money than you have to. 

    Finally, the most important tip you need to keep in mind is to be very aware of your space and how it’s configured. Just because you have the space available to you doesn’t mean you should use it. Beware of putting flammable items too close to a fire pit or barbeque. At the same time, don’t put anything involving fire too close to your home. 

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    For guaranteed success, plan out your furniture and summer home décor set up before you purchase or decorate anything. Give yourself the opportunity to plan for the kiddie pool and bench swing before you ship them to your front door. Then, all you have to do is start planning your first summer barbeque. 

  • 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.