Tag: indoor

  • Healthy Habits for You and Your Partner

    Healthy Habits for You and Your Partner

    Do you know when you’re sitting on the toilet and scrolling through your Instagram and see a video with an elderly couple talking about how they’ve been married for 50+ years? How somehow they’ve cracked “the code” to a long, healthy, and fulfilling marriage?

    And you’re sitting there thinking, “how the f— did they do that?”

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    Those people are my heroes because while marriage is a beautiful experience, it is undoubtedly difficult to keep afloat sometimes. Some days, you have calm waters and a relaxing sea breeze, and others are filled with storms and waves ready to drown you.

    There are simple strategies you can engage in helping maintain a healthy relationship. Here are some of our favorite small habits that will make a huge difference. 

     1. Set in Motion Your Emotion

    I’m going to let you in on a little secret. Being emotionally connected to your partner is far more important than being physically connected to them (AKA sex). If you’re in it for the long-run, then establishing an emotionally connect is very, very important. According to Marriage, creating this bond will not only strengthen your communication skills, but will also help build respect, better sex, and a sense of security.

    How to build that connection?

    Just don’t keep any feelings from your partner. If there are any problems, never shoo them to the side. Always talk about how you feel and get it out in the open. Don’t let the work-life dominate your relationship; always have one day of the week dedicated to your partner. Just because you’re married doesn’t mean you can’t get out there and have fun.

    2. A T-Rex was Once an Egg

    This was my grandpapa’s way of saying, “the little things matter, you dipshit.”

    I can’t speak for all women, but when my husband sends me a hearty text with a bunch of kissing emojis, I smile like a bumbling buffoon. We’ve only been married for three years, but it still gets to me. His job requires a ton of physical labor so the fact that he found the time to shoot me a message just reminds me of why I married this guy in the first place.

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    It doesn’t have to be a text. It could be buying them lunch, surprising them at work, sending them flowers, cooking them dinner, and leaving post-it notes with flirty messages all over the house.

    The little things keep the sparks flying, trust me.

    3. Communicate EVERYTHING

    By everything, I do mean the good, the bad, and the ugly. As a married couple, we always want the best for each other, and whenever something grand happens, we tell each other right away.

    But what about those difficult conversations that we would rather not talk about? It could be stress, body weight, anxiety, car troubles, and even a pile of unpaid bills. The conversations that are a must have are usually the ones we don’t want to discuss at all.

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    If you’re having trouble starting a difficult conversation with your partner, Very Well Mind has a wonderful article full of incredible advice and helpful tips.

    4. Knowing When You’re in the Wrong

    Me: “I would like to buy a Y.”

    Pat: “There are three Y’s.”

    Me: Is it “I’m Sorry You Feel That Way”?

    Your relationship is not perfect.

    Fights will happen where you will argue and cry and yell. When you are the one at fault in an argument, don’t apologize in a way that makes your partner feel that their emotions are irrelevant (refer to quote above). Please don’t be that dumb.

    You always want to be empathic when apologizing. You need to recognize that you’re in the wrong and let your partner know that you will change your behavior and fix your mistakes. Unsolved arguments lead to more complications and buried emotions. That’s uncharted territory, and we do not want to go there.

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    Dedicating Time for Each Other

    I know it doesn’t need to be said and you should be dedicating time for your partner every day. Unfortunately, life gets in the way, and sometimes, we’re too busy even to call to say ‘hello.’

    Planning to see a movie, going for a stroll in the park, visiting some close friends, and even cuddling are great ways to show your partner you’re there and you care.

  • Homemade Valentine’s Day Gifts

    Homemade Valentine’s Day Gifts

    Homemade Valentine’s Day Gifts

    In our last article, we talked about throwing an incredible Valentine’s Day party, and I’m sure if you read that article, then your Valentine’s day party was the talk of the town. Now, while your local Target is probably overfilled with human-sized teddy bears at the moment, there’s always something about homemade gifts that hold more sentimental meaning to what love truly is. To save you time and trouble, we have picked a few simple ideas that will have your partner smiling from ear to ear.

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    Valentine’s Day Mason Jar

    “I am obsessed with Mason jars!” says the stay at home mom who spends hours scrolling through Pinterest every day. Let me tell you why Mason jars are the absolute best.

    •     You can use them to plant herbs
    •     Great for smoothies and juices
    •     Toothbrush/pencil/twine/buttons holder
    •     Prep salad in them and take them to go
    •     Overnight oats or puddings

    The list is endless! For Valentine’s Day, here’s how you can benefit from a mason jar: 

    • Fill it to the brink with candy hearts, and you can use either a boutique of fake or real flowers. Your call.
    • Handpick your loved one’s favorite chocolates and cut out paper hearts with sweet messages on them. You can choose to paint the jar pink or wrap it with a red glitter ribbon.
    • Valentine’s Day goodies! This includes heart-shaped cookies, pink/red macaroons, sugar cookie hearts, Hershey’s Kisses, conversation heart cookies.
    • Fill the jar of notes on why you love this person. Design the outside of the box with glitter, hearts, and both your initials. Anytime your loved one feels down; they can open a note and remember how much they’re loved.

     

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    Heart-Shaped Bath Bombs

    Even though bath bombs have been a thing since the 1990s, they only gained popularity in early 2018. After they blew up, I felt like they dominated the cosmetics industry. People were making bath bombs left and right. There was so many shapes, colors, and scents to pick from that you would have thought at this point, I would have tried one.

    Creating your own bath bombs at home is an incredibly simple task. You can find the steps here and get creative! You can make them heart-shaped, cupcake shaped, and even in the shape of lips. You can literally find the mold for anything on Amazon. You can present them in a mason jar (obvi) or any acceptable container you have on hand!

    If you’re planning on creating this gift for your partner, always remember bathtubs are fit for two (wink, wink).

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    Scavenger Hunt

    I know what you’re thinking. Who has the frikin’ time to create a scavenger hunt?

    The answer is me, always me. I’m adding this to the list because it was my gift to my husband last year and he thoroughly loved it! If your loved one is a fan of riddles and finding things, this one’s for you, too! Every puzzle and hint was kept within the house, so it didn’t take long. I kept them short, simple, and sexy.

    The last clue-which was really more of an answer-led him to a hotel where I had rented a room for the night. Rose petals everywhere, lavender scented candles, a steak dinner, a bottle of bubbly, a sexy film (Secretary), and err, that’s it.

    Now I’m just waiting for someone to hand me the “Best Wife” award. Should be any minute now.

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    Homemade Cake with Message

    Do you love to bake? Does your house always smell like the holidays because of the cinnamon buns you’ve been baking? Do your neighbors continuously ask you for your recipes because your pecan chocolate chip cookies are the best damn thing they’ve ever tasted?

    Then I want YOU to bake a cake with a loving message this Valentine’s Day. You know the phrase “The quickest way to a man’s heart is through his stomach”? Yeah, well, I’m here to tell you that the quickest way to anyone’s heart is through their stomach because food is fantastic and clearly essential to our survival. I just never understood how they made something as simple as food about men.

    Moving on. If you’ve got a message for your loved one, then grab that frosting and get to writing. Then enjoy with a glass of red wine while cuddled under a blanket watching Pretty Woman.

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    You + Me on a Tree

    Click here for a visual. When I first stumbled upon Jamie’s DIY, I immediately thought “What the-,” because never in a million years would I have thought to use leftover firewood to make a memorable gift.

    Did I believe it would be difficult? Most definitely. Was it? Nope. But it does require you to be patient and careful since you will be using a utility knife and woodburning tool.

    The result is rustic, romantic, memorable, and a great addition to any room.

    See? There are just a few ideas to get those wheels in your head turning. All simple, all significant, all made with love and appreciation. Regardless of what you choose to make, always remember that at the end of the day, the perfect gift is you being there for your loved ones.

  • Winter Honeymoon Spots

    Winter Honeymoon Spots

    When I hear the word honeymoon, my mind automatically wanders to white sandy beaches, crystal blue waters, and drinking rum out of a coconut. And of course, lots of sexy time.

    Hey, it is a honeymoon, after all!

    Even though most honeymoons are spent somewhere tropical, there are thousands of winter wonderland locations that fit the just married getaway profile! Leave your bathing suits (I know, I’m sorry) at home and pack up your snow boots and fur jackets, here are some of most beautiful places to spend your winter honeymoon.

    Riffelalp Resort, Switzerland

    Tripadvisor

    Yes, of course, the first thing on my list is Switzerland. Known for their edible chocolate gold and second longest life expectancy. Riffelalp Resort is located at an altitude of 2,222 meters within the ski region of Zermatt. It’s one of the highest rated and well-known ski resorts in Switzerland. The 5-star hotel is praised for its majestic interior decor, friendly staff, and breathtaking views (beautiful mountains including the Matterhorn). In addition to the luxurious suites, there is an outdoor pool, child care services, spas/saunas, and a rooftop lounge.

    For more information about this delightful location, click here.

    Fairmont Hot Springs, British Columbia

    Columbia Valley Pioneer

    Something we can all agree on? Canada is a must see for any travel purposes. The second largest country in the world holds some of the most beautiful landscapes and scenery including the Rocky Mountains, Niagara Falls, and Old Montreal.

    Fairmont Hot Springs is perched on the slopes of the British Columbian Rocky Mountains and overlooks Purcell Mountains. What’s more romantic than hot springs? Hot Springs and a golf course, obviously. It’s time to hit the slopes and immerse yourself in Canada’s largest natural mineral hot springs! So whether you want to hit the spa, the trail, or simply cuddle up in front of a lit fire enjoying a glass of fine wine, this resort holds much promise and unforgettable views.

    For more information about this winter paradise, click here.

    The Manor on Golden Pond, New England

    Kayak

    Are you looking for something more country? This New England resort is the perfect romantic getaway. I know when you first read the name, you’d think it was named after a New York’s Times best-selling novel. You got to admit, it’s an odd name, but this turn of the century manor sure caught my attention.  

    This luxurious country inn is located at the top of Shepherd’s Hills in the Lakes Region of New Hampshire. Their specials include a romance- honeymoon package that includes a full country breakfast each morning, spa lunch with champagne, and a 7-course menu tasting in their Van Horn dining room.

    For more information about this beautiful old English Manor, click here.

    Lake Placid Lodge, New York

    Tripadvisor

    Five stars, lakeside, rustic elegance, burning fireplaces, cozy mornings, and most importantly, fantastic food. When the lake is frozen solid in the winter, there are tons of activities to do! You can choose from ice skating to ice fishing to cozying up near an outdoor fireplace eating smores and drinking hot chocolate. If you’re looking for something more adventurous, you can climb aboard a dog sled and get pulled around Mirror Lake and view all the attractions this place has to offer.

    To find out more about this incredible location, click here.  

    Saariselka, Finland

    The Globe and Mail

    I saved the best and personal favorite for last. If you want to create memories that will last a lifetime and experience mother nature like never before, Finland is where it’s at. Among the several activities that include hiking trails, snowmobile safaris, and ski resorts, Saariselka is known for its incredible views of the Northern lights. To gain the full experience, make sure to head over to Igloo Village Kakslauttanen so you can stay in your own private glass igloo. Also known as The Wedding Chamber, this traditional earth lodge offerers the happy couple a “cozy love nest” and some igloos come equipped with a private sauna and heated outdoor jacuzzi! Imagine watching the Northern Lights from the comfort of your bed with your partner cuddled up next to you. Finland, you win this round!

    To find out more about what’s probably the best winter getaway ever, click here.

    While the list for winter honeymoon getaways is long and never-ending, always keep in mind this one thing before heading to your dream destination: as long as the love of your life is by your side, it’s going to be a great honeymoon no matter where you choose to go!

  • Indoor Activities for Rainy Days

    Indoor Activities for Rainy Days

    One of the downsides of growing up in Southern CA is that we didn’t get much rain. We would experience light showers, but it was never so intense so that we had to stay inside. My childhood consisted of several trips to Venice beach and so many Disneyland visits to the point where I got tired of it. Yes, the happiest place on earth became the most dreaded place on earth for me.

    It wasn’t until I got hitched that I started to come up with indoor activities for my partner and me. Rain or shine, my husband wouldn’t leave the house unless it was work related. This took a significant toll on me considering I’m such an extrovert and need my daily dose of outdoors.

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    So what did I do?

    That’s right; I made a list. Because lists are fantastic and whoever invented them needs to be worshipped like a god.

    Here are your indoor activities for rainy (or sunny) days!

    Movies Marathon

    Harry Potter. Boom, there’s your movie marathon idea. I joke, but seriously, it’s the first thing that comes to mind.

    If you’re a movie person, it’s time to fire up that VCR (people still use those, right)? Load up on your favorite snacks and grab your favorite person, even if that person is you. It’s time to cuddle up under your Spongebob wool blanket and watch your favorite films.

    Don’t forget the popcorn. It’s not a movie marathon unless you’ve eaten three buckets of popcorn by the end of each film.

    Read a Book (or maybe two or three)

    Anybody else have a shelf full of books they haven’t even started reading yet? Yup, that’s me. The guilt engulfs me every time I watch Game of Thrones for the bazillion time. You’d think I would have at least read the books because of my obsession with the series.

     

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    But sadly, I am not wired that way.

    A good book, a cup of tea or coffee, and a comfortable armchair are all you’ll need to have the perfect rainy day.

    Spoil Yourself

    Two words. Spa day. I mean, why not? Everything can be made at home! The face and hair masks, foot soak, bath bomb, and even your infused (ok, spiked) drink. Here you will find all the DIYs you need to pamper yourself!

    Turn Up the Heat (In the Kitchen)

    I’m just going to go ahead and say it. I’m a monster in the kitchen.

    And by a monster, I do mean everything’s a competition for me. Even if there is no competition at all, I compete with myself.

    Self-driven is the word you’re looking for here. Pretending that I’m on Iron Chef is the only sure way to guarantee five-star food and a burnt/cut finger/hand. But you have to admit; time flies while you’re in Gordon Ramsay mode. It’s true what they say. You are your own worst critic.

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    Remodel your Home!

    You finally have an excuse to move things around. If you have some portraits you want to hang, some carpets you want to lay out, or some DIYs you want to show off, now’s the time to do it. Let’s be honest, if you don’t get it done now, you never will.

    ….and 5,6,7,8!

    Got a Wii? Time to have a dance-off. If not, YouTube choreography videos and learn all the moves to Single Ladies. Hey, you never know when you need to break out in dance, and what says “I know what I’m doing” more than Beyonce?

    Answer:

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    The list goes on and on. You can try painting, building a fort, have a scavenger hunt, online shopping, writing a novel, or something as simple as baking cookies. No matter what you choose to do, just make sure you’re not sitting around all day!