Thursday, December 10, 2020

Get A Head Start On Next Summer's Vacation Plans

 


Depending on where you are in the country (I'm in PA.) or in the world, you might be getting ready for some bitter, cold weather or you already had a snowstorm or two. Or maybe you're one of the lucky ones who live somewhere where you don't see snow and ice and temps below freezing! Wherever you call home, you might be looking to get away for a few days or a few weeks. If you are planning to take a vacation, now is the best time to start planning! (and saving!) 


Pick A Destination 

This might be the hardest part of the whole adventure. Of course, this will depend on your budget and the time of year you're planning to visit but this could end up being a tough decision! Especially if you have a kid or 3 and you have a few other people who might have different ideas than you. 

You'll want to definitely do your research! Check out rates, availability of rooms or space, and definitely find out when their off-season is. If you can pay half the price to make reservations a week after Labor Day, that might be the deal-breaker right there. We often go to different campgrounds after Labor Day so we can get the less expensive cabin. Oftentimes this was a great opportunity to add a few nights onto our original plan or we would just have extra spending money to take along. (Well, in one case, it ended up being transmission money for my Saab and tow from Connecticut back to PA.) Either way, there is always a reason to save money where you can. I'm sure you can think of something to do with it! 


Start Planning

So, you have your destination and you checked out reviews on every hotel, vacation rental, bed and breakfast, cabin, and RV park so what's next? Check out the best vacation spots, museums, find your restaurants, shopping malls, maybe you planned and chose your destination around an event. It is never too early to plan an itinerary. (Unfortunately, due to the current situation, you may not be able to set anything in stone so you may want to check out cancelation policies and plan what you can. You can always go back to this once you know what the current situation is wherever you may be going.) I'm not digging any part of this shutdown so I am going to pretend that by next spring, all will be well and we are planning anyway with the expectation that we will be allowed to visit anywhere! 

I've always found that the best way to find the best spots in town is to start searching for local groups on Facebook and start searching Google for local, small-town dining, shops, even right outside of the town if need be. I tend to always favor small businesses and prefer to give them as much business as possible. Even at home. But, they also don't charge outlandish prices. They're not tourist traps. Usually. So, you can save a fortune maybe driving just a little bit outside of your vacation spot but you could potentially save $5 for that Alabama Slammer (OK, maybe $20 on 4 of those...) and you could get a much better quality meal that will only cost you half the price! 

Be sure to check reviews, check for coupons, discounts, and collect addresses, phone numbers, map everything out so you know where you're going when you get there. You probably won't have a printer with you but if you print those half-price coupons off before you leave, you could save a whole dinner's worth of money before you head back home. 


Take Care Of Everything At Home

Even if you're 9 months out, you may want to consider setting up any arrangements necessary for pets or even if you need someone to check in on your house or check your mail. It probably wouldn't hurt to have backup plans too. (Trust me, this happened to us a few times when a friend ended up backing out last minute.) 

You'll probably need a new pair of sneakers or some swim suits for the kids, maybe a few new tankinis for yourself, or a new bag to stuff everything into. So, start checking for sales during the holiday season! I often find the best deals from Cyber Monday the whole way through the New Year. I even stock up on shower gels, snacks, fancy candy, things I wouldn't otherwise buy any other time during the year. But, when they sell for half price or offer free gifts and free shipping I will buy up to last as long as possible! Actually, this would be a great time not just for swimwear but for toiletries and games and puzzles for the kids. All of these things are useful when traveling. 

Years ago when I first started actually using a computer and a printer., (Just 15 years ago! I was way behind on all of this Internet stuff!) I quickly realized how important it was to have a bank bag or an envelope stuffed with any pamphlets or maps from any of the places we were planning to visit. As well as coupons, any gift cards, frequent dining or gas station perks cards, a few blank checks, just in case, an emergency credit card or 2, medical insurance cards, anything I knew or thought we might need going into this bag. It was so helpful to have this so handy (in the glove box). That way, if we were going by a gas station or a chain restaurant, I could quickly find everything and save money too! If you are using a bank bag or a small bag of some kind and you have vitamins or prescription medication, this is the perfect place for those bottles too! Everything is just right within reach and depending on the size, you could easily fit this into your own bag when you stop on the way or are going into a restaurant. I also always throw a few oddball things in there like an extra lip gloss or 2 and a chapstick as well as some bandages, allergy meds, basic first aid kind of stuff. 

Another maybe strange habit I've always had or maybe it's not so strange but, I always think about how exhausted we are when we do finally arrive back home from vacation. The absolute last thing I want to do is have an overflowing hamper and a sink full of dishes! I am usually the last one to sleep on vacation eve because I am busy writing checklists to make sure we packed everything and then I catch up on laundry, clearing out the fridge, making sure drinks are stocked up so we don't have to run anywhere after we are home, and making sure the sinks are cleared out and everything is tidy. I feel a lot better coming home to a neat and tidy house. Where I don't have to do anything. But unpack and make a pot of coffee and fall asleep on my laptop. Of course, these are things you would do right before you leave rather than 7 or 8 months ahead of time! But, I figured I would add them. Just in case. 

Save Your Money

This is sometimes the most annoying part of vacation planning but if you throw a few dollars in a jar each week or you automatically deposit a few bucks into a savings account online or you just save all of your change, this will add up fast and could end up being all of your spending and shopping money while you're gone! (I'm assuming you've already paid for your stay when you reserved.) The next step isn't so bad. You just have to create a plan and a budget and stick to it! 

Years ago when my husband and I first started out and we had just 1 child, I was very cautious about our spending money on vacation and I would write up a piece of paper with exact amounts of money we had to use for each day. For instance; We're going to be out for 3 nights and 4 days so we need 4 days worth of food money and 2 days worth of spending money and the gas money for days 1 and 4. I would gather all of the coupons and discount cards I could find and then simply divide the money up into categories. I love to "overestimate" everything. Even if it's just a $5 overage. This way there is always extra. (I do this with my bills too!) Say my truck payment is $533 a month. It's actually $550 so that's how much I make sure is in the bank to cover that bill. I do this with each bill so this way I am always just a little bit ahead. (Same deal for vacation money just on a smaller scale.) 

One last thing! If you're saving coins, be sure to check with your bank first before paying an outrageous price like 8% at the grocery store. We have a very small bank but they do allow for us to drop off loose or rolled up coins and then pick up later in the day or the next day and they don't charge us anything! 8% may not seem like a lot but it could end up being 2 large pizzas worth when you're counting out a few hundred.


Monday, November 16, 2020

Liderstar Glow In The Dark Moon And Stars Sticker Set Giveaway

 

Welcome to the Liderstar Glow In The Dark Moon and Stars Sticker Set Giveaway! 2 Winners

This giveaway is part of our Holiday Gift Guide – Stop by to see all the giveaways and great products.

Host is Deliciously Savvy

Michigan Saving and More

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This giveaway's Sponsor is:

WEBSITE ~ FACEBOOK ~ PINTEREST ~ INSTAGRAM ~ YOU TUBE

Available on Amazon

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2 Lucky Winner Will Win A Liderstar Glow In The Dark Moon & Stars Sticker Set (TRV $50)! 220 stars and a moon included in each set!

See review HERE.

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This giveaway/sweepstakes is in no way endorsed, affiliated, or associated with Facebook, Twitter or any other Social Media Networking Site. This Giveaway is valid to continental United States residents only, Entrants must be 18+ years of age to enter. This giveaway event will end at 11:59 PM (EST) 12/19/20. The winner will have 48 hours to email their information back to mcushing7 at hotmail dot com or a new winner will be drawn, you may want to put this email address as safe as it could go to spam. The giveaway is not valid where prohibited! By entering you are authorizing us to collect the information on the form below, this information is used only to contact the winner! No purchase necessary, Void where prohibited by law, and the number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. Winners are chosen randomly by the Giveaway Tools program. The sponsors are each responsible for shipping of the above prizes. No blog associated with this contest are responsible for prize fulfillment. If you would like to be a sponsor in a giveaway like this please email Melissa Cushing at mcushing7 (at)hotmail (dot) com. If you take an entry you must stay following for the entire contest or you will be disqualified.

Sponsors interested in joining our gift guides can see the information HERE.

$25 Credit Special Dreamsby Ron Etsy Shop Giveaway

 

Welcome to the $25 Credit SpecialDreamsbyRon Etsy Shop Giveaway!

1 Winner $25 Credit SpecialDreamsbyRon Etsy Shop

This giveaway is part of our Holiday Gift Guide – Stop by to see all the giveaways and great products.

HOST IS MICHIGAN SAVING AND MORE and SWEET SOUTHERN SAVINGS

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This giveaway's Sponsor is:

SpecialDreamsbyRon Etsy Shop

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1 Winner receives the $25 credit SpecialDreamsbyRon Etsy Shop

Welcome to the $25 credit SpecialDreamsbyRon Etsy Shop Giveaway! 1 Winner $25 credit SpecialDreamsbyRon Etsy Shop

$25 credit SpecialDreamsbyRon Etsy Shop

$25 Credit

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THE GIVEAWAY

This giveaway/sweepstakes is in no way endorsed, affiliated, or associated with Facebook, Twitter or any other Social Media Networking Site. This Giveaway is valid to continental United States residents only, Entrants must be 18+ years of age to enter. This giveaway event will end at 11:59 PM (EST) 12/25/20. The winner will have 48 hours to email their information back to las93063 at gmail dot com or a new winner will be drawn, you may want to put this email address as safe as it could go to spam. The giveaway is not valid where prohibited! By entering you are authorizing us to collect the information on the form below, this information is used only to contact the winner! No purchase necessary, Void where prohibited by law, and the number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. Winners are chosen randomly by the Giveaway Tools program. The sponsors are each responsible for shipping of the above prizes. No blog associated with this contest are responsible for prize fulfillment. If you would like to be a sponsor in a giveaway like this please email Laura Smith at las930 (at)gmail (dot) com. If you take an entry you must stay following for the entire contest or you will be disqualified.

Sponsors interested in joining our gift guides can see the information HERE.

 

Thursday, August 20, 2020

Long Distance Gift Ideas


If you're in a state or a country that has been locked down due to COVID 19 you have probably been shut down since March of this year. (It's soon September, just in case you're anything like me and forget what day of the week it is anymore!) So, chances are, you probably had a birthday or 2 or maybe an anniversary or maybe you just wanted to brighten a loved one's day but you've been limited in options. 

Fortunately, we still have some options for gifts or just a simple, "Thinking of you" gift basket or some goodies for a college student! Back to school shopping hasn't been the same, summer hasn't been the same, 2020 hasn't been the same but one thing that hasn't changed is the fact that you can still find ways to brighten someone's day! So many different small businesses have stepped up and some who didn't offer delivery or even websites have now started these things. It's even easier to support small businesses now! 

Of course, we have the infamous chocolate covered strawberries! Those always seem to be a hit at our house! My oldest son especially loves the white chocolate strawberries which is great for me since I don't eat the white chocolate and he leaves all of the dark chocolate for me. 

You can also find pre-made gift baskets and care packages for any age, any profession, you can even find some wonderful ideas for sports fans, (even by their favorite team.) Personally, I always prefer to make my own care packages by buying specific snacks and extras such as journals, pens, books, cards, board games, and music that  I know the recipient would love. I also think this adds a nice, personal touch. But if you're in a rush, there are a lot of good options and deals online. 

Homemade gifts are always cherished by the recipient. This is the perfect time for making jams or bread or even cookies! Depending on where you live and the shipping rates, this may be something limited to more local friends and family members. Here in PA, the end of August is an excellent time for produce! The only fruits I cannot buy locally are strawberries and blueberries but everything else is available or will be any day now make for some tasty jams and dips. Grab a case or 2 of Mason jars, some pretty labels, twine, and pectin and you are well on your way to creating mouth-watering, summery good jams that can be enjoyed even with 5 feet of snow on the ground. 

Flowers are a fun way to add a little bit of sunshine! Not only do they smell beautiful but when arranged beautifully, they turn into artistic masterpieces that are sure to delight everyone. New Jersey flower delivery from Plant Shed has such a stunning variety of options that are very aesthetically pleasing you'll end up finding an arrangement you'd like for yourself as well!

I know many of you are thinking I am forgetting wine or gift cards so I figured I would add these to the end since. Oh, and who can forget pumpkin spice is it? I like pumpkin pie and pumpkin roll when made properly but I've never been a pumpkin fan. More of a chocolate fan! I'm also not a wine person but I do understand there seems to be some wine fad that has been going on. Much like the whole pumpkin, latte, Starbucks, mermaid smoothie, something or other! Gift cards are cool and while I don't typically jump for them right away only because they are too quick and not very personalized, I will use those for kid's and teenager's birthdays. Especially when my kids are invited to a few parties in a month, I figure the gift cards are much appreciated by their friends. 

Whether you want to go all out and buy lots of Lego sets or a cute urban cheesemaking kit or order a NJ flower delivery, your loved ones will be grateful and sure to smile! That's the most important part after all!




 

Saturday, May 23, 2020

Craving Coffee Giveaway

Craving Coffee Giveaway

Welcome to the Craving Coffee Giveaway!

1 Winner Crave French Vanilla Flavored Coffee.

This giveaway is part of our Dads and Grads Gift Guide – Stop by to see all the giveaways and great products. Satisfy your craving coffee with Crave coffee!

Host is Michigan Saving and More

 
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This giveaway's Sponsor is:
Craving Coffee Giveaway

If you are craving coffee then Two Rivers Coffee will help satisfy that craving with all their great varieties of coffee.

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1 Winner receives the below. Crave French Vanilla Flavored Coffee
Crave French Vanilla Flavored Coffee

Craving coffee with Crave French Vanilla Flavored Coffee

$17.99 ARV plus shipping
See review HERE.

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THE GIVEAWAY

This giveaway/sweepstakes is in no way endorsed, affiliated, or associated with Facebook, Twitter or any other Social Media Networking Site. This Giveaway is valid to continental United States residents only, Entrants must be 18+ years of age to enter. This giveaway event will end at 11:59 PM (EST) 6/10/20. The winner will have 48 hours to email their information back to las93063 at gmail dot com or a new winner will be drawn, you may want to put this email address as safe as it could go to spam. The giveaway is not valid where prohibited! By entering you are authorizing us to collect the information on the form below, this information is used only to contact the winner! No purchase necessary, Void where prohibited by law, and the number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. Winners are chosen randomly by the Giveaway Tools program. The sponsors are each responsible for shipping of the above prizes. No blog associated with this contests are responsible for prize fulfillment. If you would like to be a sponsor in a giveaway like this please email Laura Smith at las930 (at)gmail (dot) com. If you take an entry you must stay following for the entire contest or you will be disqualified.
Sponsors interested in joining our gift guides can see the information HERE.
 

Takobia Earrings Giveaway

Takobia Earrings Giveaway

Welcome to the Takobia Earrings Giveaway!

1 Winner will receive 2 pair of Takobia earrings from their most recent collectiton.

This giveaway is part of our Dads and Grads Gift Guide – Stop by to see all the giveaways and great products.

Host is Michigan Saving and More

 
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This giveaway's Sponsor is:

Takobia Earrings

Since its inception in 2007, Takobia has been featuring the latest in fine fashion jewelry made to the highest quality standards. Each piece of jewelry is treated with care and inspected for quality numerous times before it makes it into the hands of customers. By keeping practices modern and fresh without sacrificing that personal connection with valued customers, Takobia provides a quality experience to shoppers that complements the quality found in their jewelry.

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1 Winner receives the below.
Dazzling Takobia Jewelry

2 random pair of earrings from their most recent collectiton.

up to $72.00 ARV
See review HERE.

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THE GIVEAWAY

This giveaway/sweepstakes is in no way endorsed, affiliated, or associated with Facebook, Twitter or any other Social Media Networking Site. This Giveaway is valid to continental United States residents only, Entrants must be 18+ years of age to enter. This giveaway event will end at 11:59 PM (EST) 6/12/20. The winner will have 48 hours to email their information back to las93063 at gmail dot com or a new winner will be drawn, you may want to put this email address as safe as it could go to spam. The giveaway is not valid where prohibited! By entering you are authorizing us to collect the information on the form below, this information is used only to contact the winner! No purchase necessary, Void where prohibited by law, and the number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. Winners are chosen randomly by the Giveaway Tools program. The sponsors are each responsible for shipping of the above prizes. No blog associated with this contests are responsible for prize fulfillment. If you would like to be a sponsor in a giveaway like this please email Laura Smith at las930 (at)gmail (dot) com. If you take an entry you must stay following for the entire contest or you will be disqualified.
Sponsors interested in joining our gift guides can see the information HERE.
 

John Boos & Co. Walnut Rustic-Edge Cutting Board Giveaway

Welcome to the John Boos & Co. Walnut Rustic-Edge Cutting Board Giveaway!

1 Winner

This giveaway is part of our Dads and Grads Gift Guide – Stop by to see all the giveaways and great products.

Host is Deliciously Savvy

Michigan Saving and More

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
This giveaway's Sponsor is:
1 Lucky Winner Will Win A John Boos & Co. Walnut Rustic-Edge Cutting Board Valued At $139!

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See review HERE.

A Little History On John Boos Boards:

John Boos & Co., based in Effingham, IL is one of the oldest manufacturers of premium quality foodservice equipment and butcher blocks in the U.S.A. Boos has been in business continuously since 1887. It was in his Effingham, IL blacksmith shop that founder, Conrad Boos first invented what would become the original Boos Block®. Having harvested sycamore from local wooded areas, and processed it in his sawmill, Conrad brought it to his blacksmith shop for finishing. That first block of sycamore slab placed on three legs evolved with sheer purpose of a block to absorb the shock of this smith’s hammer against the anvil. It was the local butcher, who having seen and admired Conrad’s block, became impassioned about owning a block for his meat market. Unknowingly, Conrad’s son, John, who having made and sold that first block to the local butcher, took John Boos & Co. into the infancy of the 125 year reign of serving customers in the commercial market sector.

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This giveaway/sweepstakes is in no way endorsed, affiliated, or associated with Facebook, Twitter or any other Social Media Networking Site. This Giveaway is valid to continental United States residents only, Entrants must be 18+ years of age to enter. This giveaway event will end at 11:59 PM (EST) 6/28/20. The winner will have 48 hours to email their information back to mcushing7 at hotmail dot com or a new winner will be drawn, you may want to put this email address as safe as it could go to spam. The giveaway is not valid where prohibited! By entering you are authorizing us to collect the information on the form below, this information is used only to contact the winner! No purchase necessary, Void where prohibited by law, and the number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. Winners are chosen randomly by the Giveaway Tools program. The sponsors are each responsible for shipping of the above prizes. No blog associated with this contests are responsible for prize fulfillment. If you would like to be a sponsor in a giveaway like this please email Melissa Cushing at mcushing7 (at)hotmail (dot) com. If you take an entry you must stay following for the entire contest or you will be disqualified.
Sponsors interested in joining our gift guides can see the information HERE.

Tuesday, March 31, 2020

Fun Facts About The US Flag



I would have written a completely different post about the US Flag and US Flag history if we weren't in the middle of such uncertain times. So, given our circumstances at the moment, I figured I could discuss different activities about the US Flag for kids to work on when they're home from school. 

Besides various worksheets, videos, coloring pages that are easily available for download, there are a number of online resources for homeschool curriculums that are free or discounted heavily for parents and teachers. (Due to the current situation, many businesses have stepped up to help to make sure parents can continue their child's education at home.) 

You can also create your own worksheets and puzzles with some facts about the flag. 

Fun Facts About The US Flag

Did you know that the flag actually has to be in bed at sunset each night? Not only that but the flag also needs to be awake at sunrise each and every morning! 

The designer of our current flag was a high school student who received a B- from his teacher for his project. 
Robert G. Heft of Lancaster, Ohio, created the current design in 1958. President Dwight D. Eisenhower picked Robert's flag out of 1500 entries! 

6 American Flags have been planted on the moon. Neil Armstrong planted the first one on the moon in July of 1969 as part of the Apollo 11 mission.  Of the 6, only 1 has been removed. So there are 5 left standing. (The first one is no longer on the moon!) 

There have been 27 versions of the American Flag. There was a mistake made when North and South Dakota became states because some flag manufacturer's thought they would be combined into just 1 state. So, there was a version with 39 stars.

Vermont and Kentucky were states 14 and 15 and the flag changed from 13 stripes to 15 stripes. However, when there were more states added, there were discussions as to whether or not they would constantly add more stripes to each state. So, they decided to go back to just 13 stripes to represent the 13 colonies.

The US Flag that we have today is the very first flag to have lasted for 50 years. At one point, we had 17 different versions of the flag over a 50-year span!

There is just a time when burning the flag is acceptable. If the flag is damaged beyond repair, the US Flag Code does state that you can, in fact, burn it in order to dispose of it with dignity.

Just like a lot of us, the US Flag has a few nicknames! You have probably heard someone use one of those nicknames. One of the first nicknames was, "Old Glory". Another popular nickname a lot of people still use is, "Stars and Stripes".

The American Flag has been on quite a few trips! Not only has it been taken to the moon but, in 1909, Robert Peary traveled to the North Pole and took a flag that his wife had sewn and put it in the ice.
In 1963, Barry Bishop took a flag with him on his trip to the top of Mount Everest!

According to the US Flag Code, the flag should never be flown in bad weather. If it must be flown at nighttime, it must be illuminated.

History suggests that the colors of the flag were chosen because red represents valor, white represents liberty and purity and the color blue represents justice and loyalty.

The proper way to view the flag when it's on display is by facing the flag with your right hand over your heart. You've probably done this at school or right before a baseball game or a hockey game!
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On August 3, 1949, President Truman signed an Act of Congress that would designate every June 14th as  National Flag Day. Our current president, Donald J. Trump celebrates his birthday on June 14th too!

There are so many fun facts about the flag! This is just a short list but if you want to impress your friends (or your teaches!) check for more at your local library or online. If you're bored and looking for things to read about or learn about, you could also start memorizing the states and even include the order in which they became stars on the flag!

You could also check out Flags Unlimited for more fun facts and to purchase one of your very own!




Saturday, March 28, 2020

Gift Ideas For The Man In Your LIfe

It’s the thought that counts. That’s what many people say about being presented with gifts that are unwanted, unnecessary or downright confusing. It’s a noble opinion, but it doesn’t help those individuals who struggle with finding the perfect present. Gift-giving anxiety plagues many shoppers, and it’s especially troublesome when one is charged with purchasing a gift for the proverbial man-who-has-everything. Father’s Day spending reached a record $16 billion last year, much of that adding to America’s fathers’ ever-growing collections of socks, ties and coffee mugs. With dad’s day on the horizon, get your father something he truly wants this year. Here are two gift ideas that will make him happy.

Science and History

Remember all those times your dad bugged you about your school studies? It just might not be because he recognized the importance of a good education. Many fathers continue to enjoy academic interests throughout their lives. If he’s a science and nature lover, take an active role in building a mineral collection or purchase a telescope and spend some quality time under the stars. To treat a history buff, take him on a day trip or mini-vacation to a Colonial community, Civil War battleground or Old West landmark. Even gifts like films and books about history will be appreciated.

Sports and Recreation

When dad’s a sports enthusiast, you’ll surely score when giving him game tickets to watch his favorite team play. If his fandom flirts with fanaticism, consider gifting him a jersey or other sports memorabilia autographed by his childhood idol or current favorite. If he’s a hands-on sporting type, treat him to a fishing or hunting adventure, or even spend an afternoon together in your favorite wild spaces hiking, trail biking or whitewater rafting.

Whatever you decide to do for your dad, do it together. The thing that matters most is spending quality time with the ones you love.

Tuesday, March 24, 2020

Painting For Adult Beginners

Have you ever wanted to learn how to paint? This hobby is an excellent way to improve focus, relieve stress and provide a creative outlet for many people. However, many adults don't know how or where to begin when it comes to painting. If you're ready to give this form of artful expression a try, follow these three tips to set yourself up for success.

Start With the Right Supplies

When it comes to buying paint supplies, there are numerous materials to choose from. Visit an art supply store long beach ca and talk to an employee with experience in your area of interest. They can help you choose which products are worth the investment for beginners, and which should be reserved for more serious artists. You may be surprised that your initial purchases should be relatively inexpensive.

Consider a Class to Learn Basic Techniques

It's difficult to sit down and paint with no previous experience or instruction. Search for classes online or at a local studio to help you understand the basics of painting, including value, tones and perspective. Even just a few sessions with a pro can give you the information you need to paint successfully on your own.

Find Inspiration from the Artwork of Others

One of the most difficult processes in painting is working from real life. Instead, start by emulating the works of other artists to help you get a firm grasp on your basic skill set. Over time, you may find that it's easier to come up with your own original ideas and subjects.

Keep it Stress-Free

Learning to paint takes practice. Make the learning experience enjoyable by creating a relaxing environment in your home. Pick a time that's quiet and eliminate distractions. Choose a location in your home that helps you feel at ease and play your favorite music to promote leisure and focus.

If you're ready to give painting a try, follow these steps for a great start. With the right approach, you can enjoy a new hobby and stick with it for years to come.

Sunday, March 22, 2020

Finding The Perfect Gift For Any Occasion

Have you ever been invited to a party and you had no idea what type of present to bring? Perhaps it was a birthday party for your grandfather, a baby shower for your best friend’s newborn, or a retirement celebration for a co-worker. No matter what the occasion, when you don’t have the right gift idea, you can become frustrated. Here are some gift-giving ideas to help you conquer the conundrums associated with gifts.

For Children

If you want to find a present that will delight, educate, and not replicate something someone else is bringing to the children’s part, look for one of the themed gifts Richmond VA at an online kid’s boutique. You can find puzzles, science equipment, and even dress-up costumes.

For Newborns

The quintessential gifts for newborns are plushies, diapers, or wipes. Why not give something that will last for years, such as money in a savings account? You could also look into clothing, bedding, or get together with other gift-givers and purchase a significantly large gift such as a bedroom set.

For Acquaintances

For those co-workers or retirement parties, look for cookie bouquets, fruit baskets, or quirky gifts. You may not know the person well, but you can always please someone with a tub of popcorn, a gift card, or a gardening basket.

For Grandparents

Let’s face it; if your grandparents want something, they probably have it. So, what do you get for someone that has everything? If they have a pet, opt for a framed picture. If they love chocolate, try a candy bouquet. If your grandparents complain about cold feet, get them some colorful socks that make a bold statement.

Finding the perfect gift can be a breeze if you look at the tips given above. Think outside the limits of ordinary gifts, and you will find just what you need to delight the recipient at any party.