I recently had my milestone 40th birthday! My wife loves to throw a party, so she was asking me for weeks how I wanted to celebrate.
I'm not usually one for making a big deal out of birthdays, but this one felt like it deserved some recognition. I wanted to have a great time, but I didn't want the costs to get out of hand. In my mind, the most important thing was to get my closest friends and family together to share in my milestone.
My wife and I worked up the following plan to maximize our fun — but minimize our costs.
I'd purchased some specialty decorations for my wife's 40th birthday party last summer. After the party, I carefully tucked them away to use again for my party. We purchased a few additional decorations, but the cost was very minimal. Once my party was over, we again carefully packed away the decorations; we'll offer them to some of our friends that will hit the same milestone in 2014.
Retailers jack up the price of any decoration that relates to a specific birthday. Some of our decorations specifically mentioned that it was for a 40th birthday, and some just generically said "Happy Birthday." The latter were much cheaper.
I love to cook, grill, and smoke meats, so I'm always tempted to invite people over for a full meal and make something awesome for my guests to eat. When you're talking about 30-40 guests, however, the cost becomes way too high. We planned a start time of 7 pm so that we could provide light hors d'oeuvres and keep the food costs down.
I know what most of my friends like to drink, but adding up the costs of getting the cocktail basics for a large group of people is expensive.
I couldn't quite go completely BYOB for my 40th birthday, so we indicated in the invitation that we would supply some beer, wine, and soft drinks — followed by a gentle statement that they were more than welcome to bring their favorite beverage if they were so inclined.
It's great to catch up and visit with my favorite people, but to me, the best parties have some sort of game play for entertainment. At my party, we played a few rounds of Catch Phrase, followed by Cards Against Humanity.
I had an out-of-this-world time at my birthday party. I caught up with old friends, shared laughs with everyone, and made memories that'll last the rest of my life. I woke up the next morning ready to start the next decade of my life — and thanks to these five steps, neither my wallet nor I had a hangover.
Written by Travis Pizel for MoneyNing and legally licensed through the Matcha publisher network. Please direct all licensing questions to legal@getmatcha.com.
]]>Do you feel tired most of the time? Do you suffer from headaches? Do you have trouble concentrating? Do you have trouble sleeping?
Just four years ago, I answered yes to all of these questions. I was shocked to discover that toxins were everywhere in my kitchen-from plastic water containers to the pans I was using to cook my food. And most disturbing: These commonplace kitchen items were compromising my health. This eye-opening information empowered me to update my kitchen and create a healthy cooking environment in which I could thrive.
Here are some simple tips to detoxify your kitchen:
These cause tiny bits of plastic to come off and land in your food. A durable, natural-fiber cutting board is a must-have for a nontoxic kitchen. These are great for everyday use, can be put in the dishwasher, and help keep knives sharp (whereas plastic cutting boards can cause knives to become dull).
Most people are aware of the dangers associated with plastic water bottles, but it bears repeating. Stay away from plastic water bottles that contain the harmful chemical BPA, and look for those marked "BPA-Free." Avoid leaving any plastic bottles in a hot car-when heated, plastic can release toxic chemicals into water or other beverages. Glass bottles are the safest option: Try Takeya or Lifefactory.
These pots and pans release toxins when heated or when the surface becomes damaged. Replace them with stainless steel and cast iron cookware.
These can break down easily and release toxins when heated. Instead, use utensils made from silicon, wood, or stainless steel. One caveat: If silicon utensils turns white when bent, they probably contain fillers and should be avoided. Also a great option: Compostable forks, spoons, and knives made from biodegradable, plant-based materials such as corn. Try EcoSouLife.
Did you know that cooking or storing hot food in plastic is a recipe for disaster? Dangerous toxins can leach into your food. Use glass instead for food storage.
This kitchen staple releases toxins into your food when heated; use parchment paper instead.
Written by Helen Gray for Better Nutrition and legally licensed through the Matcha publisher network. Please direct all licensing questions to legal@getmatcha.com.
]]>If you’ve done it, don’t feel bad--everyone has. Even if you don’t have children, there are just some things that are too fun to miss out on, regardless of your age. No shame, no guilt!
In fact, here are 3 products that are known to appeal to our inner children, and while they are usually marketed at kids, it’s okay to pick them up for yourself. No one here is going to judge, guaranteed.
There’s something irresistible about a fidget spinner, and long after children get bored with them, adults are still carrying them around in pockets and purses and briefcases or have a couple stuffed in desk drawers and pencil baskets.
You know what? That’s okay. As it turns out, fidget spinners actually can be beneficial to adults by giving restless or bored energy an outlet. Do you tend to play with your hair or bite your nails when you’re anxious? Do you run for the snack drawer at work when you’re bored? Using a fidget spinner or other fidget toy can decrease those habits and replace them with something completely innocuous.
Besides, it’s kinda fun! Honestly, it’s good to know that it can be helpful for when you’re trying to explain to someone why you’re balancing a fidget spinner on the tip of your finger, but you don’t need any other reason beyond enjoying it.
There's a lot of attention on being mindful these days, and with good reason. Mindfulness, or the act of focusing on the moment, appears to improve focus, problem solving skills, and our mental health.
Did you color when you were a kid? Do you remember those moments, laying on the floor or sitting at your desk with a coloring book and crayons? If you did, you can probably remember details like the smells around you, the feeling of the crayon in your hand, the colors on the page--as a child, we tend to be more innately mindful.
Coloring as an adult can bring us back to that state, and it's been shown to reduce anxiety (no, really!) and create focus. Adult coloring books have hit the market full swing in the past year, and there's never been a better time to try it out.
Grab some coloring pages and some colored pencils and allow yourself the time to just enjoy it. Or if you have children, sit down with them the next time they're coloring and color alongside them; you'll both find it rewarding!
When it comes to getting in touch with your inner child, though; few things work more effectively than some fun gadgets. You've been there, right? There's a moment when you open a new device or a new toy where your eyes light up like a kid and you want to poke at it and find out just how it works and all the things you can do with it.
For some, it's robotics: drones and remote control cars are fun to play with, no matter your age. For others, it's kitchen gadgets, for cooking or serving or just showing off. Whatever gadgets you like, there's always something to make you grin like a child.
And you know what? That's a really good thing. As adults, we get so caught up in the stress of our every day lives that we forget what it's like to just be happy, to find contentment in the small things. You deserve those moments of childlike glee, of peaceful mindfulness.
So go ahead, indulge. Find that toy that appeals to you (don't worry about the kids, they'll be fine!) and enjoy!
]]>Back to work, back to school, back to errands--whatever it is that's got you out and about, there's always going to be a need to carry; well, let's face it: everything. At least, it sure feels like that sometimes, doesn't it?
Carry groceries, paperwork, books, or anything you can think of safely and fashionably in a Loqi Water Resistant, Reusable Bag like the Alex Trochut New York bag pictured above.
If your plans require a little extra heft, the Blok series of backpacks manages to look completely chic, completely fresh, and yet do the heavy duty carrying and support you need for whatever your plans are.
Are you a student or have one in your life? Nothing will make going back to school easier than one of the best looking, most reliable backpacks you can get.
When the day is done and it's finally time to come home and relax, there are few things better than a cozy seat and a hot cup of tea, and the Tea Infuser Pipe is the best way to make tea--it's an actually smart design that works perfectly.
Plus, it just looks cool. There's something to be said for the little things that make you smile, and this tea infuser definitely will.
Speaking of things that make you smile, the Excite Eye Door Stickers bring a smile to everyone who sees them--designed to fit around the peep hole on your front door, they bring a fun flare to any home, and make that particular feature a lot less of an eyesore, as it were.
Plus, because there are so many varieties, you can find the one (or several!) that you like the most.
New year, fresh opportunity to enjoy the fun things in life and still be absolutely fabulous.
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No need to be stressed, though--try one of these three decoration styles this year. Straightforward, simple, and always classic, you'll easily make the right impression without stress and without a lot of effort. Nice, right?
If you like it rustic, this decorating style couldn't be more perfect. Bring the fresh feeling of winter indoors and make a scene that will make everyone feel like they've entered a cabin on the edge of a perfect winter forest.
Start with evergreens: whether you opt for fresh evergreen garlands and wreaths or find natural-looking artificials (and there are some great ones out there, so don't let that be a deterrent!), it's the first step to bringing the outside wonder indoors.
You can use evergreen garlands to trim mantles and fireplaces (fire safety is priority though, so keep them away from any area where you know there's a chance for open flame) or use them to cover shelves and tables in festive flare.
Add lighting: When you're looking to keep it natural-looking, white lighting is going to be a great choice, but you can use whatever you prefer. Wrapping the lights into the garland is a classic way to add lighting, and it's classic for a reason--it works! You can also add flameless candles to your decor, the flickering light against the evergreen will look warm and inviting.
Incorporate other natural elements: Once you've got your base set with your evergreens and lights, it's time to add some interest to your decor, and adding even more natural elements can fill out the winter wonderland fantasy. Oranges are a classic example (and smell great, too), fruit and nut bowls, wicker, and natural wood decorations all help bring the scene to completion.
Throw in some color: Finally, add some silver or gold bells or colorful ornaments to bring in the holiday cheer and complete the holiday look. The effort it takes to put this together is minimal but the effect is charming, and you'll be proud to invite everyone over.
If you want to make a big impression, you can make one in no time with this simple approach. All it requires is setting a white background and then popping your favorite bright holiday colors off of it.
Start with a white surface: A simple white tablecloth, runner, tree skirt, or mantel scarf can set the perfect backdrop to make anything you choose come to life. You can also use artificial snow on shelves and tables to add an extra bit of dimension to your background.
Choose your lighting: For this, you can use white lights to enhance the white base or pick multicolored lights to make it pop brightly. Using the lights as trim is probably the easiest way to incorporate them.
Add your colors: The white backdrop is the perfect way to make colors look brilliant, so choose bright reds, greens, blues, or purples to play off of it. Ornaments and decorations displayed against and nestled into the white surfaces will look ethereal in the lighting, and you'll be amazed at how beautiful it can become.
Want to add some extravagant sparkle to your holiday scene? You can go glitz without a lot of work if you know what to focus on, and make your home look star-quality for the holidays.
Neutral back drops: If you're going for elegance, a strong neutral backdrop can help set the mood. Rich black, clean white, or deep brown or all great surfaces for a good punch of glamour.
White lights & candles: For this, white light is the way to go, and incorporating candles is a great touch. Again, careful with open flames near your decor, but a candle or a warm fire going in the fireplace and take the atmosphere to the next level.
Silver & Gold: Add gold and silver accents to your decor to take your room to the next level. Ornaments and decorations and trim in gold and silver will feel extravagant in the right light and with a strong neutral backdrop, and the effect will be entrancing.
When you're expecting people over for the holidays, decorating takes front and center, but don't make it hard on yourself: a simple formula of the right background, the right light, and the right pop of color or glamour will provide exactly what you need without the added stress.
]]>If you're looking for something unique that fits, here are 4 gifts appropriate for anyone on your list:
When it comes to being the right fit for anyone, functional, and stylish, it's hard to get past a Mighty Wallet. Quality construction means it lasts and trendy, fun designs make it an instant favorite.
Choose the one that's right for every person on your list and make filling the stockings in your home a lot easier just like that.
Lighting the night has never been more fun--forget a boring lamp, get the people in your life something they'll really enjoy. From color-changing pull lights and dancing colors to unicorn night lights and nature-inspired solar lights, whoever you're shopping for, you're bound to find just the right light for their personality.
Whatever space you want to bring fresh light to, there's a fun, unique, and beautiful way to do it, just in time for the holidays.
Everywhere you look, people are saying what they think with emojis, from text messages and social media to pillows and t-shirts, they're everywhere. Get your hands on it (literally!) with these Emo-Gee Mugs. It'll be no problem to find one with the perfect expression for everyone on your gift list.
That last thing you need, that perfect stocking stuffer or one more cute gift to round out what you've got, the Emo-Gee Mug is guaranteed to bring a smile.
Okay, fair enough, the minute you bring up "socks" and "gift," it immediately sounds like a joke, right? Haha, you got socks!
But hey, if the socks you get are awesome, who's laughing now? And if you're going to choose some socks, you should absolutely pick the coolest. How about socks with famous faces or adorable fruit-inspired baby socks? Not-your-average socks for the not-your-average people in your life.
Pens are another thing that sound so...bland. So don't be bland, find something fun for the writer in your life (you know there's that one person who loves new pens and fresh notebooks...they probably also like libraries). What are they into? Fantasy? Nature? Whatever it is, there's a cool pen for it.
The holidays are upon us, but you don't have to be unprepared if you know where to look--check out the best holiday gift guide and find everything you need!
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Looks impressive, right? And for under $45, it really is. Forget your average lawn or beach chair; why settle for minimal comfort when you can have maximum chill? If you're buying a gift for someone who loves to go to the beach or outdoor concerts or camping, the Easy Inflate Portable Sofa Lounge is the perfect gift.
And if you're worried about how portable it really is--not only does it weigh less than 3 pounds, it also inflates and deflates in 10 seconds and holds up to 450 pounds. Its convenience is only surpassed by its usefulness.
For the little ones in your life, the perfect backpack might mean more than you know. A kiddo with the perfect backpack will be stepping out proud, and it's hard to go wrong with this cute blue puppy.
It's well-made with lots of room for books, snacks, toys, games--whatever is needed, it will fit and be easy and more comfortable to carry, not to mention adorable.
Whether it's at home or in the office, a cork board is super handy, and this one is perfect for the person in your life who loves to travel, as well. Not only can they keep notes close at hand and display the most important things, its classic appeal looks great on any wall.
If you're looking for a good gift for someone who spends a lot of time working, this could be a perfect addition to their office and a quick way to make someone smile.
If you know someone who loves games, this collection is bound to be a hit. All the classic games in one beautiful set. From chess and checkers to dominoes and poker, get together with your favorite group of people and play a game or two.
Talk about a gift that keeps on giving--this will last for a long time and give hours of entertainment.
The Color Wheel Umbrella keeps you dry from the rain while looking awesome, too. If you know someone who commutes or walks often, rain or shine, this umbrella makes a great gift.
Not only is it beautiful and suitable for anyone, it's well-made to last. Why go ordinary when you can go extraordinary?
Whoever you're shopping for, there's a gift out there that's just right and at the right price, you just need to know where to look!
]]>One of the best things to do on a cold winter day is to wrap up under a soft, cozy blanket, and there are few softer, cozier blankets than one of these Camping Throws. Cuddle up on the couch or your favorite chair with one of these and the cold weather won't ever be a bother.
There are five varieties so that you can choose the perfect one for yourself (or a friend!), and all of them have the same welcoming comfort.
Imagine this: you come home from a long day, it's cold outside and all you want to do is get inside and comfortable as quickly as possible. You come in the door, kick off your shoes, grab your favorite blanket and one of these Neck Warmers and relax in your most comfortable chair.
Sounds pretty good, right? Neck warmers not only keep you warm from the chill but also relax stiff, sore muscles from all the things you do during the day. The next time you need to recoup, take a few minutes to yourself in soft, warm, cozy heaven with one of these.
Somehow it's always your feet that get cold, right? It's so nice when it's chilly to slide on a pair of cute, comfy slippers that both make you smile and certainly make you feel a lot warmer.
Whether you think the traditional bunny slippers are cute or want to try something more adventurous, finding the right pair to wear or the perfect pair to give as a gift this holiday season is easy peasy--and you won't regret it the next time you wake up to a cold floor!
So at this point, you've got a comfy blanket, a cozy neck warmer, and a cute pair of slippers. The only thing you need now is the perfect pillow to achieve maximum winter relaxation.
Of course, finding pillows that fit your taste matters, because when it comes to decorative pillows, it's all about making it part of the space. You don't have to settle, though--find just the right one for you and make your house and your rest a little more enjoyable.
What's your favorite way to spend a cold day? Curled up with a good book? Watching your favorite movies? Or taking a nice, long winter's nap? Whatever it is, enjoy it to the fullest!
]]>There are a lot of things you can do to reduce stress, from getting more sleep (7-9 hours is recommended for most adults!) to making time for a little bit of exercise to finding smart ways to make the things on your to do list easier.
One of the best things you can do for stress, though; is to laugh.
It turns out that laughter has an actual physical affect on our bodies, one that can do a lot of good for us, starting with lowering those stress levels.
Benefit #1: Laughter Reduces Stress Hormones & Boosts the Immune System
Okay, it sounds a little far-fetched but it's true, laughter has been shown to lower the stress hormone cortisol in the blood stream, a hormone that can lead to chronic fatigue and weight gain when left unchecked.
Additionally, laughter actually activates the cells in your body that work to prevent and fight off infection, making you less likely to get sick.
Benefit #2: Laughter Relaxes the Entire Body
When was the last time you let out a truly hearty, belly-shaking kind of laugh? When you laugh like that, your muscles relax for up to 45 minutes afterward, causing your whole body to relax and making it easier to release stress and fatigue.
In fact, if you're having a hard time getting to sleep, spending a little time before bed reading something that makes you chuckle might help with that last push you need to sleep.
Benefit #3: Laughter Triggers the Release of Endorphins
Endorphins are the body's natural feel-good hormones. They can be released through a number of things, most notably exercise, but also laughter. In addition to making you feel happy and content, they're also known to naturally relieve pain.
It's a quick way to combat drama and stress around the holidays, so don't be afraid to take some time to laugh at the situation.
Benefit #4: Laughter Helps Protect Your Heart
Sounds a little too good to be true, but laughter improves blood flow and lowers blood pressure, contributing to heart health. It might not be a replacement for a healthy diet and exercise, but it sure is a fun way to help your heart!
So when you need a good laugh in your life, where does it come from? Hanging out with friends and family you love is an awful good way to get started, laughter almost always springs naturally from a happy time with people you enjoy, but that doesn't mean you can't find other ways to laugh.
Prioritize things that make you happy. Surrounding yourself with things that make you smile is a good start. Find the things you enjoy doing or that make you happy and make them available.
What's your favorite color? Decorate your bedroom to reflect it. Do silly puns make you grin? Find quotes and pictures that make you laugh when you see them.
Especially at home, when you walk in the door, it should make you happy--if there's anywhere that should make you smile, it's your own space.
Make social media more fun. Social media can be actually pretty stressful sometimes--staying connected can be exhausting for so many reasons. Make it a more fun place to be by joining accounts that bring you good news and a few good laughs along the way, too.
There are hundreds of accounts from Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter with everything from the best puns to the cutest animals that are waiting to make you laugh--it'll be a great break when you're scrolling through your feed and find something that gets a belly laugh.
Share the funny things you experience with friends. The only thing that makes funny things funnier is sharing them with other people. Seriously, there's something extremely contagious about laughter, and getting a good laugh from your friends can boost your own happiness!
Take whatever you find that makes you laugh and share it with the friends and family you think will appreciate it most. Share the moment and the laughs, and make everyone's stress a little lighter.
]]>Tools are a super popular holiday gift because they're universally useful and for a lot of your favorite hands-on types, fun to get and use, as well. Whether you're looking for a specific kind of tool or shopping around, now is a good time to buy what you need.
In addition to the 18-in-1 Survival Tool picture above, these are also good gift options:
A new tool under the tree or as a stocking stuffer might be that last little thing you need, and now's the time!
While a little unexpected, cookware is also on the top of the list for what to buy on Black Friday. If you've been shopping for a foodie or two, now is the time to find them that cool new piece they'll love.
And, if you're looking for diningware for yourself for the holiday season, it's a great time to jump on that, too!
Whatever designer or name-brand products you might be looking at, Black Friday is the time to buy. Often you'll find discounts on these items only at this time of year, so keep your eyes open for what you want and grab it when you get the chance.
Don't forget that this counts even if you're buying for yourself! Getting the best price now for whatever you need for the holidays--giving or keeping--will make your budget a lot happier in the future.
Games are always a huge part of the holiday season if you have a kid (or a really big kid!) in the family. If you're in the market for a video game console or games, now is the time to grab those bundles. Black Friday will see a lot of them at huge discounts, so snap them up while they're in stock.
Whether you shop Black Friday deals or not, now is the beginning of the holiday shopping season, so if you're still looking for the perfect gifts, checking out a Holiday Gift Guide is a good way to get set on a direction!
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Whether you're having turkey, ham, or something less conventional, you're going to want the right things to go with it, and if you're still stumped on what you want to make or bring to your favorite Thanksgiving dinner, here are some amazing side dishes collected from around the web you won't want to miss, including tricks to help turn them into super easy projects.
In this recipe from Country Living, everyone's favorite starchy side-dish gets a makeover into a two-step, set-it-and-forget-it style cooking project, one you can largely leave to its own devices!
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Mmm, there's something special about sweet potatoes on Thanksgiving, and this recipe from Woman's Day makes it a snap to serve amazing sweet potatoes because you can prep them up to two days beforehand and finish them up day-of in just 10 minutes!
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Oh, the smell of freshly-baked bread is near the top of the list for best smells in the world, and these rolls from Country Living are a quick bread that will immediately make you feel like you're in a bakery without making you feel like you work in a bakery.
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Green beans and green bean casserole have been a staple on a lot of Thanksgiving tables for years, but these green beans from Delish are a step up with a cheese crust you'll be tempted to eat before you serve.
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Opinions on mushrooms tend to be pretty varied--some people love them and some people, well, don't. But if you're a mushroom lover or you know someone who is, this option from the Cooking Channel will be a treat, and it's about as quick and painless as you can imagine.
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Anyone suddenly feeling hungry? It might be time to try out a few of these recipes a little early--you know, for practice. Enjoy!
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You want it to be clean, you want it to look nice, but you don't want to spend all your time decorating for one day, right? Easy--here are a few things you can pick up and add to your decor to make it fresh that won't take up too much of your time.
There's a good chance that you and your guests will be spending a fair amount of time in the kitchen this holiday, and you might want to add a few little touches to make it feel like the holidays everywhere (of course, the smell of food will go a loooong way!).
When you're looking for somewhere to put that fresh-out-of-the-oven dish, the perfect trivet can be a godsend, and also a great looking piece of art on your countertop, if you know what to look for.
The Remake It! Wine Cork Trivet is the perfect choice. With a few wine corks and a few minutes of time, you can make it yourself, recycle old corks, and show off a new piece for Thanksgiving. Its rustic appeal is perfect for the holiday, too--and a great host or hostess gift, as well.
There's a reasonable chance if you're hanging out with the other grown-ups in the kitchen, a few cocktails are going to get passed around. The Good Measure Recipe Glasses will keep you straight on making the best possible cocktails. They come in 6 different drink bases:
Well, the last one may be better used the next morning, but either way, you're bound to have good drinks when you use the Good Measure Glasses.
So here's the cool thing about coasters, right--they're both super functional at keeping your furniture from looking like a disaster after everyone runs around setting their drinks on it and a great way to add some flare to your space.
No, really, how much easier does it get than decorative coasters? You can find them in a bunch of cute designs and styles both for the holidays and year round, and they take care of themselves. That is a win for everybody.
Looking for some to try? Check out these:
The annoying thing about getting ready for company is that you have to have the whole house ready, and sometimes that's a lot of extra work. Want to freshen up your decor without exhausting yourself? Here are a few things to try:
Need something new, super simple, and ridiculously quick? Switching out your decorative pillows can do wonders for the space and it's literally a 1 minute job. Easy peasy.
Because you can mix and match and find exactly the ones you want, the options are limitless. Here are a few you can try right away:
A new light fixture can make a world of difference in any room, and switching out just a couple of old lamps for new ones can be just the little touch you need for your holiday decor.
Whether you go for soft and flattering or bold and fun, you can easily find just what you need, like the ones below:
Whatever you need to make your home feel more comfortable and fun and warm and ready for the holiday, there are plenty of easy, great gifts that can make it happen!
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In fact, you can make the kids at your next holiday party think you're the best host ever by just making their space a little more special.
If you're breaking out the fine China for the adults but don't want to risk it on the kids, you can still skip the paper plates and give them something special, too.
Dinner Winner Plates are a fun option for any kid, turning dinner time into fun time. Maybe it's not so bad to play with your food after all, especially if it gets kids to eat and keeps them content at the kids table!
Turn any dinner into a game, piece of cake (which can still wait until after dinner).
Want to do something chic but different for the kiddos? The full collection of Petits Et Maman dishes are fun for the kids but also have a classic charm, perfect for the holidays or any time.
Try all of the styles of plates, cups, and flatware and you'll make a big impression on your littlest guests.
Once you've got the plates set, adding something decorative to the table is a nice touch, but the stuff the kids like isn't exactly the same as what their accompanying grown-ups might enjoy.
There's a few things you can add, though, to make it cool just for them.
Honey Bear Salt & Pepper Shaker Set
Talk about too cute, c'mon, you can't beat the Honey Bear Salt & Pepper Shaker set, and if you put this on the kids table, you'll be a hit for sure. Hard to turn down a pair of adorable bears!
Make the adults and kids alike grin when they see these little guys hanging out on the kids table.
As long as we're looking at adorable salt and pepper shakers, the Mushroom Salt & Pepper Shakers are such a great little combination of cute and fun and funny, and just right for little hands, too.
If you're looking for an easy way to make kids smile, this will definitely do the trick--just look at them; they're the cutest.
Serving finger foods for the little ones is already a win, and serve them in these bowls and you'll be a hit with everyone. The Whale Serving Bowls are the perfect size for serving snacks, and any kids table is going to be thrilled with them.
Heck, even adult tables could stand to have a little more cuteness on board, and serving in these bowls is champ level.
Adding a few things that are just for fun is a guaranteed hit-maker. After all, who wants to go to a boring, stuffy dinner--even adults like to be entertained, how much truer is it for your shorter, less calm guests? These oughta do the trick, though:
For something that's just fun for everyone at the table, these Dolphin Kiss Bubble Straws are like a bowl game touchdown for the kids. How cute and how much fun are they? Available in blue and pink, get the ones you want, reuse them as often as you want, and be the best host making the uh--biggest splash.
And finally, if you want to keep the kiddos at peace, this is certainly a way to do it and make all of the tired parents at your dinner table happy, too. These Coloring Paper Placemats are detailed and fun--throw a couple of packs of markers on the table and let the kids go crazy coloring their own placemats.
Couldn't be simpler; couldn't be more awesome. Easy peasy.
Be the king or queen of the kids table, and make everyone's holiday a little happier!
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Getting ready for parties and events can be a hassle, but if you prepare some staples for the season now, you'll be more than ready to throw on the perfect outfit and head out the door no matter what's coming, and having the perfect accessories ready to go is easy with these 3 amazing necklaces made from all-natural tagua nuts.
The Kayuna necklace is a great piece not only because of its natural charm and handmade artistry, but because it's adjustable, making it a better fit and also more versatile. While it extends up to 36 inches, it can be adjusted to be smaller. Wear it different ways with different outfits and make it work all season long!
This style comes in Forest or Aqua, and because of the variety of colors used, can be a great complement to a variety of outfits. It's a beautiful, natural, and versatile accessory for any wardrobe, especially as we come into the holiday season.
If you're looking for a simple piece to set against your favorite holiday outfits, the Inti Tagua Necklace may be exactly the accessory you need. Pretty, straightforward design makes it a piece that's likely to get you a quick and sincere compliment, and can be paired with something dressy or casual, no problem.
Available in Aqua and Avocado and with a spectrum of color along with the solid pendant, you can easily match it to a lot of outfits, a great option for the season!
The Timaka Tagua Necklace is a simple beauty, perfect for your favorite party dress or outfit that just needs that one extra touch. Like the others, it's completely handmade and unique, and it's a delicate choice, one that will certainly draw attention.
This one comes in two colors, Poppy and Blue Sea, both of which will mix well with similar colors or pop against darker colors and neutrals.
All three of these necklace styles are handmade from the natural tagua nut, a type of palm that grows in Ecuador. The amazing thing is that the tagua nut is 100% sustainable, hand making the rain forests in Ecuador profitable, keeping them safe, growing, and providing for the local economy.
Beautiful, unique holiday accessories to keep or give as a gift that also contribute to good things in the world? What's not to love?!
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There are lots of things to consider from costumes to candy, but here are the top 10 trick or treat safety tips:
1. Make sure costumes all fit properly. An ill-fitting costume can drag on the ground and lead to tripping, so keep some safety pins on hand and if the costume is too loose or too long in some areas, do a quick adjustment.
2. Attach reflective tape or stickers. It can be very hard for drivers to see darkly-clothed kiddos once the sun goes down, so take a few minutes to attach reflective tape to costumes and buckets or bags to make your crew more visible.
3. Try to avoid masks. Masks are fun, but for trick-or-treaters they can severely limit the ability to see, leading to all sorts of potential hazards. If you can, go for face paint instead!
4. Don't text and walk. The temptation to use your phone while you're walking between houses can be strong, but resist. Keep your eyes on the road and the kids just in case the drivers around you aren't quite so careful.
5. Stay with your child. It seems like something that wouldn't need to be said, but kids will often sprint ahead of their parents when they're excited, so keep an extra eye on your kiddos and make sure they stay close.
6. Carry a flashlight. There are actually two good reasons to carry flashlights. One, of course, is to see where you're going (okay, duh, that's obvious!), but the other is so that drivers and other trick-or-treaters can see you. You'll be much more visible with a flashlight than walking in the dark.
7. Cross the street at corners and crosswalks. When everyone's kind of drifting around during trick-or-treating, it can seem like no big deal to just cross anywhere, but drivers are still navigating the streets. Make it easier for everyone by sticking to the rules.
8. Only approach houses with porch lights turned on. Most homeowners who are willing to have trick-or-treaters know to turn their porch lights on. Not only is it impolite to approach homes with the lights off, it's an unnecessary risk.
9. Don't go inside anyone's home. It might sound obvious, but when your child is standing at someone's door and they say, "hang on a sec, why don't you step inside while I get more candy," they're likely well-meaning, but it's just not worth the risk.
10. Inspect the candy. It may be a little archaic, but in the better safe than sorry category, inspecting the treats your child brings home isn't a bad idea--look for evidence of tampering or anything that doesn't belong.
Trick-or-treating is such a big part of the Halloween experience--if you don't have your own trick-or-treaters this year, pass this on to someone who does and have a safe, fun Halloween!
]]>When it comes to making the most of fall, enjoying the night sky fits right into the schedule--unless, of course, it's raining or cloudy or cold. The Starry Sky LED Room Light creates a night-like sky in any room, filling it with stars.
It's especially good for kids who don't like the dark--it provides just the right amount of light to make your favorite kiddo feel safe without disturbing sleep.
Even better? It's available in four colors: orange, purple, green, and gold, so that you can have exactly the effect you want.
Need something to get through a long day at work when you'd rather be outside? Or maybe you're having a good time at a picnic or tailgate and just want something a little different to do.
Easy peasy: either way, the Desktop Edition Bowling Game makes the perfect gift. Small enough to fit on any desk or table top, but fun to play with family and friends (or when you're legit about to lose it from office boredom). And because it comes in its own case, it's super portable, so take it anywhere you want.
Look around your room--are you missing something? It's probably this Cat Coin Bank with LED Light. No, really, hear me out: it's completely adorable, it lights up in rainbow colors, and it can also hold your loose change.
Perfect for a nightstand, kitchen, office, or anywhere you want to add a little bit of character. Scratch that, a lot of character--look at his super cute face, after all!
Speaking of cute things, these Hoot Coasters are 100% cute and ready to come home with you or your favorite owl-lover. Artfully designed, each coaster comes with a unique floral background and a perfectly cute owl.
Plus, each coaster is made from absorbent stone and is designed to catch condensation and not transfer it so that your furniture stays dry and clean and undamaged. No mess, no water spots, no fuss--just friendly, colorful owls. Perfection.
Whether you're enjoying a nice bowl of popcorn curled up in front of the TV with a scary movie or out at a tailgate snacking on some chips or eating dinner on a camping trip, this cool Camping Serving Bowl and Servers comes in awfully handy and looks great. Plus, it's BPA-free and easy to clean.
So gather around the fire with your favorite meal or snack, hang out, enjoy each other's company, and make the most of your fall. Serve anything for any party, tailgate, camping trip, or just chill night at home.
Fall is such a great time of year, make it your own!
]]>What would a better night's sleep change for you? And how can you get it?
It's amazing just how much sleep affects the every day function of our lives. Here are some of the ways sleep affects our bodies and minds:
1. Weight Control. Scientists have shown that people who get enough sleep are less likely to be obese. There seems to be a reasonably strong link between sleep and the ability to control weight, which may be linked to hormone production, the motivation to exercise, and the fact that those who sleep less tend to eat more calories.
If you've found yourself struggling to lose or maintain an ideal weight, sleep might be a contributing factor.
2. Concentration and Social Ability. It turns out that our physical bodies aren't the only thing affected by sleep. Have you ever found yourself saying, "I get grouchy when I don't have enough sleep?" That's extremely common and actually proven to be true (although you may want to avoid using that as an excuse when you get into an argument!).
Lack of sleep can lead to difficulty concentrating and the inability to read social and emotional cues properly. It literally becomes more difficult to be social when you haven't had enough sleep.
3. Mental Health. Sleep has been shown to reduce the risk and symptoms of depression. When you don't get enough sleep, you're more likely to be irritable, tense, and anxious. If you add these emotions to other mental illnesses, like chronic depression, bi-polar disorder, chronic anxiety, etc., it quickly exacerbates the problem.
If you're finding your mental health to be a problem, sleep can make a difference, but it's best to check with a doctor, as chronic conditions can likewise affect the way you sleep, creating a frustrating cycle.
4. Strong Immune Systems. Doctors have found that getting enough sleep makes your immune system stronger and much more likely to fight off small illnesses and infections, as well as shortening the length of time you're affected when you're sick.
Orange juice and immunity-boosting supplements are helpful, but sleep might be the real trick to staying ahead of whatever cold is going around the school or office this week.
So now you know that you need the sleep, how do you make sure you're getting good sleep? There are some steps you can take to make sure that when you do get sleep, it's the best sleep you can get.
It sounds like advice you'd give your children, but it works for grown-ups astoundingly well, too. It's all about creating habits. When you get into a routine, it's easier for your body to adjust and fall into a sleeping rhythm, meaning you will fall asleep more quickly and sleep more soundly.
The goal is to get at least 7 hours of sleep, so try to plan your bedtime around that number, allowing yourself enough time to sleep before your alarm will be waking you up in the morning.
Tip #2: Turn off the Devices
You've probably already heard it before: turning off your tablet, computer, and cell phone before bed can help you sleep better, but it's so true that it bears repeating. The light that devices give off stimulate both your eyes and your mind and make it harder to get to a good sleep state.
The best rule of thumb is to limit screen time an hour before bed to give your mind time to wind down. It might be a hard adjustment at first, but the difference it makes in the quality of your sleep will make up for it.
Once you've limited your device time, keep that pattern going by sleeping in a dark room. It sounds like second nature, but you'd be surprised how those little night lights and ambient lights from around the house can filter in and affect how well you sleep. In fact, you can sleep less soundly and not even realize it until you're tired every day and you don't know why.
The best solution is to try to get the room as dark as possible, but if you find that you have unavoidable light, a sleep mask can do wonders.
Tip #4: Stay Cool
If you share a bed or a bedroom, you know what a delicate balance it can be to make sure the temperature is just right for sleeping, but it does actually matter. Scientists have found that a room temperature between 60 and 67 degrees is ideal for sleeping--it's the perfect balance between hot and cool.
Keeping it on the chillier side makes it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep, and who doesn't enjoy a cool room with a cozy blanket, after all?
Ahh, lots of us are snoozers--hit that button just a few more times, right? "5 more minutes, I swear..." Unfortunately, that snooze sleep does very little for making your sleep productive as it constantly interrupts the sleep cycle.
Instead, set one alarm and resist the temptation to snooze, forcing yourself to get up when the alarm goes off (one trick is to put the alarm clock on the other side of the room, so you have to get out of bed to hit it). It will feel rough at first, but within a week your body will adjust and you'll feel more energetic in the morning for it.
Your health and happiness matters, and sleep may be having a much bigger impact than you think!
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Simple in principal but intricate in design, this Skull Box is the perfect place to keep small accessories nearby and on hand. Keep it next to the bed, in the bathroom, or next to the kitchen sink for those times you need to keep your rings, earrings, and necklaces safely without storing them.
Perfect for Halloween and practical any time of the year, if you're looking for something unique and cool to give as a gift or to make your own home more festive, this will do the trick.
Want a fun Halloween craft that couldn't be simpler (or less messy)? The Paper Punk Paper Toy sets are the perfect solution. Build a vampire or werewolf from paper with no mess, and everything you need is included in the kit!
The set comes with the pop-out paper pieces to fold, adhesive, stickers for designing, and a full set of instructions to help you finish the piece. Easy for kids, but fun for grown-ups, too.
Get your spooky, scary skeleton on the move with the Solar Dancer Skeleton. Fully solar-powered, it needs no batteries to dance the day away. Put it on you front porch, in your favorite office window, or in your car, and watch it celebrating Halloween all the time!
If you're after an easy way to get festive, this definitely fits the bill.
If it's a little chilly on Halloween night and you're tired and sore from walking all over the world trick-or-treating, nothing will be more welcome than the Huggie Black Cat Herbal Warmer. Festive in its design and practical in the relief it brings, it's a perfect Halloween gift.
Made from soft cotton and felt on the outside and filled with buckwheat and lavender on the inside, it can be microwaved in no time to make it a warm, soothing compress for wherever you need it most.
Need a light to watch over the little trick-or-treaters coming for a visit? The Solar Light Garden Owl is ready to set up a vigilant watch. Bright LED lights that charge in the sun last for up to 6 hours.
The lights activate at dusk and turn off at dawn to maximize uptime overnight and will make a cute addition to your Halloween decor while lighting the way.
Speaking of needing a light, if you've got a few dark spots in your house (especially the places you walk at night!) and you could use an easy light to make it through, the Cat Tap-On Night Light will show you the way, and look awfully cute doing it.
This adorable cat light is easy to turn on, lighting up with just a tap on its head, and is bright enough to provide light to a small area so that you can grab whatever you need in the dark or avoid those obstacles that always seem to pop up between the bed and the bathroom in the middle of the night.
Finally, finish up your festive gift splurge with this pair of Skull Pens that will give any desktop, counter, table, or anywhere else you need to write a taste of Halloween. Great pens, great designs, and perfectly spooky for Halloween.
For some, Halloween is the best, most exciting holiday, so make the most of it by finding cool gifts and great decor for your favorite people and places!
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Coloring is a pastime that has quickly soared in popularity among adults as the stress-relieving and enjoyable nature of coloring has been appreciated and experienced by more and more adults.
What's better than just coloring for the fun of it? Coloring for the fun of it and getting a cool piece of art out of it after the fact. That's what the Giant Frameable Coloring Poster provides. A fun time coloring, and when it's done, you have a full-sized piece of wall art waiting to be framed and hung.
In its own way, it's a combination of gifts: a fun coloring book and a unique piece of art for your home or office. The Happy Patchwork design is a favorite for its opportunity for full creativity, so give yourself the opportunity to make it work for you in every way.
When you’re looking for a fun, artistic activity for the kiddos, paper crafts are a great choice for tapping into a creative outlet in an easy way. The Return of the Robots Paper Toys come with full instructions and foldable paper crafts to create your own scene.
All you need is glue and some imagination to make these fun robots come to life and play out their stories for you. A real hit, there are only a few of these left up for grabs.
Need a fun, colorful punch to update your living room or bedroom design? The Retrospector Cushion Pillow is the perfect solution. Its bright, bold retro colors and designs are a stand-out piece for any room. Set against neutrals for a big pop, or combine with colors found within the design to make a strong, cohesive statement throughout your space.
However you decide to make use of the exciting style, there’s no doubt you’ll want to add a pair of these to your collection.
There’s something really fun about having a flask for your favorite drink, and if you’re going to go for it, go all the way! The Lock, Stock, & Barrel Flask holds 7 ounces, is made of stainless steel, and is designed to look like a classic keg barrel.
An undeniably fun way to drink whatever you’re enjoying and get a grin at your next party, and easily one of the most popular flasks.
You don’t always get the chance to snag something before it disappears, but here’s an opportunity, so grab these items and any others you want while you can!
]]>You can change up a bathroom in a big way by taking some fairly small steps. If you aren't sure where to start, here are 4 things to focus on:
It's interesting, how much lighting actually affects perception and mood. One study found that lighting had a measurable impact. Too dark or too bright, and the subjects' moods were noticeably affected, but just right and everyone's attitude improved.
Imagine carrying over that knowledge into your home. How do you know what's just right? You'll have to be the judge of that, but it's a good idea to have varying light options to accommodate everyone.
A brighter light overhead, for example, for when you need the light, can be offset with a small lamp that provides just enough light when you don't need as much. You can also add a dimmer light option to the bathroom to make it fully adjustable to cater to anyone's mood.
A boring room is a boring room is a boring room, so don't let your bathroom fall into that category. Instead, use patterns and colors to add depth and dimension and interest to your space.
Look for easy ways to do this through things like shower curtains, rugs, and towels. If you're really feeling adventurous, you can always go for new floors, paint, or wallpaper. You can mix and match patterns, but try to stay consistent in your neutrals and theme colors, and look for patterns that compliment each other rather than competing for attention.
There's nothing wrong with adding some art to your bathroom, and it can be a great way to make it feel more comfortable and homey. Whether you go for something modern like a cool print in a frame, retro, like an old sign, or classic, like a painting or serene photograph, adding that little bit of detail can make it feel more complete.
You can also add interesting pieces to your shelves and sinks, like vintage hat racks or country-inspired bottles and jars.
Clutter is one of the quickest ways to make yourself feel anxious or ill-at-ease in a space, but it's also one of the easiest things to address. When you're looking for ways to easily update your bathroom, look for storage solutions that work in the space both visually and functionally.
A set of block shelves, for instance, can fit into a corner, or use stacking containers under sinks to control the chaos. The idea is to make sure everything has a home that isn't spread out everywhere so that when you come into your bathroom, there's a sense of peace.
Every room in your house should be a place you want to be, even (and maybe sometimes especially) the bathroom. Turn it into a room you enjoy!
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When you're ready to add a celebratory, decorative spin to your get together, the Reindeer Wine Topper is the perfect way to set the mood and make everyone smile along the way.
Plus, if you're looking for a great gift to give a party host as we come into the autumn and winter holiday seasons, this one is an easy winner. It's a functional wine stopper and it looks cool to boot.
It's nice to relax in the evening in soft lamp light and let the day melt away, and the Sea Urchin Porcelain Lamp is a great way to bring that peacefulness into your home.
It's the perfect addition to any beach- or seaside-inspired decor, but can fit into any theme with its neutral tone and gentle soothing light. It's a light, but it's also art, and it's a great piece for any home or office.
Speaking of great pieces, the Pineapple Bookend Set is a super fun display piece (and, of course, functional bookend!). It's bright color and cheerful design is bound to put a smile on anyone's face.
Use it on a shelf in the office as a nod to your quirkier side, or use it at home as part of a fun, eclectic feel. Caution, though: it might make you crave pineapple.
You have to have pens, right? You could settle for normal pens, but why, when you could have adorable pens like these 4 fun Panda Pens. Good pens, unbelievably cute in their different poses, unique, and the chances of someone accidentally walking away from your desk with one in hand is highly unlikely--what's not to love?
Plus, if you know any panda lovers (and they are out there!), you definitely can't ever go wrong giving this as a gift.
Turn anything you make into a work of art with these flexible Coloring and Drawing Shapes Stencils that are both so flexible and so sturdy that you can wrap them around curved surfaces to create your masterpieces.
Included in your stencil kit is a poster for your creation and stickers for fun, and this can turn into a great gift, especially for a kid that's going to be traveling and needs something fun and new at their fingertips.
There's always new things coming to Karma Kiss--feed the need for something fresh anytime!
]]>One of the biggest annoyances when camping is rain, especially if it gets into your stuff. Prevent this from happening by waterproofing your supplies: use waterproof bags, plastic baggies, and tarps to keep the important stuff dry.
Honestly, keeping your supplies nice and dry will make everything else that much simpler.
This is one of the greatest ideas ever: keep everything dry, clean, organized, and in reach by turning your trunk or or hatchback into a pantry. Use coolers and plastic drawers to organize your supplies, and you'll have everything you need nice and neat at your fingertips.
One important tip: don't forget to measure your space before you get your drawers and coolers, and choose sizes that will fit comfortably without shifting around too much!
It can be extremely frustrating if you're out camping and can't get your fire started. Thankfully, a crazy cheap solution is right at your fingertips, will take you only a few seconds to make before you leave, and are great at their job.
Clean out the lint trap of your dryer, but instead of throwing the lint away and stuff toilet paper rolls with it (don't forget to put them in plastic bags to keep them waterproofed!). Instantly, you have extremely effective fire starters.
When you're ready, put one near the base of your logs and light it. The lint lights very quickly and the toilet paper roll helps keep the heat directed.
Not too keen about sleeping in the grass but still want to enjoy your tent and sleeping bag? Here's a solution that allows for both: the bugs, grass, and dirt will stay out of your hair (literally!) without compromising your camping fun.
Children's foam floor tiles (usually in large square shapes that interlock) are light, easy to put together and take apart, and make a perfect covering. Slide the pieces together and create a perfect floor for your tent.
Camping without coffee? No thank you! Make it easy on yourself by creating "coffee bags" that work exactly like tea bags. Before you leave on your trip, take coffee filters and put a scoop or two of coffee grounds in each one. Tie securely with dental floss and store in a waterproof bag.
When you're ready, pour a cup of boiling water and add your bag--your coffee will brew in the exact same way a teabag makes tea with no hassle at all!
Camping is a great way to spend time in the outdoors with family and friends, enjoying the season and each other's company. Enjoy!
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Celebrate the turn of the weather now! Here's 4 gifts that will get you ready for fall:
There's something so wonderful an comforting about wrapping up in a cozy blanket in fall weather, and there aren't too many cozier blankets than the Cozy Critters Camping Throw. With its soft, warm inner lining and its adorable critter print, it's guaranteed to be a hit with whoever gets the pleasure of using it.
When there's a strong autumn wind or a cold drizzle outside, stay inside under the Cozy Critters throw with a cup of something warm and a good book or movie and enjoy!
As the evenings get darker faster, you'll often find yourself coming home when it's already dark outside. Whether you worry about walking down the street or across a parking lot in the dark or want to have a flashlight to make it easier to see when you're trying to get into your car or home, the Flash-N-Light USB Rechargeable Flashlight is the perfect answer.
The best thing about these little flash lights is that they never need batteries. Plug them into any USB charger for a little while and they're good to go! They're bright while being small and super convenient, able to clip to your keychain no problem. Grab one for each member of the family and know that no one will be left in the dark.
There's something about fall that always brings back memories of mountains and lakes and cold river streams splashing along while the leaves fall--and you can capture that just a little bit for your space with the Rise and Fall Forever Pillow Set.
Whether you save it for the autumn months or sue it year round, this pillow set is a great addition to any home. Let nature inspire you!
Cool weather? Cozy nights? A lot of good things go with these two conditions: hot chocolate, cozy blankets, a fire in a fireplace, good friends...and bunny slippers
Really, how can you go wrong with adorable cuteness on your feet that also keeps you warm AND is super comfortable? Make yourself smile any time of day with these perfectly sweet Cozy Bunny Slippers.
There's something magical about autumn. Some people like it, some people love it, but however you feel about it, make it yours! Have a fun, cozy, comfortable, friendly, warm, wonderful fall.
]]>When looking for a great gift for a kid in your life, or just something fun for them to use to pass the time, the Mini Mechanic Kit in a Tin is an outstanding choice. It comes with three model kits and instructions, but because all of the metal and plastic components are designed to work together, it's ideal for experimenting with, as well.
Everything you need to build the three models and to try your hand at your own creations are included, even the tools. The tin it comes in makes a perfect carrying case for taking it anywhere you want to go, and it's great way to spend some time together, too!
Building isn't just a fun activity, either; it can help build focus, patience, problem-solving, and fine motor skills. Fun, educational, and affordable? Now that's a bargain.
If you're stuck constantly looking for a pen (or worse, you have one of those serial pen-stealers in your office--you know the ones, they casually walk off with a pen from your desk anytime they get the chance), the Woodland Carved Pen Set is an ideal way to keep your pens on your desk. After all, it's a lot harder to sneak off with a fox in your pocket, right?
These birch bark pens are artistic and creative and will make the mundane work you have to do just a little less mundane. How're you going to say no to a cute bunny, anyway?
There's a reason the motto "be prepared" has persisted for as long as it has--it's important! How ready are you for an emergency? How about a car emergency? When the worst happens and you find yourself on the side of the road, having the tools on hand to get moving again can be such a relief.
That's why something like the Auto Emergency Telescopic Multi Tool is such an awesome gift, especially with how affordable it is. Complete with a glass hammer, safety switch, seatbelt cutter, double hexagon wrench, phillips head screwdriver, scissors, a can/bottle opener, and knife, it also provides a red flashing emergency light and bright LED flashlight with a telescopic lens and 5 focus adjustment.
There's a reassurance that comes with knowing you have what you need in an emergency. It's confidence that when the time comes, you'll be able to do what you need to do, and that's priceless.
Sometimes, in the course of a rough Monday (or Tuesday, or Wednesday, or...) you just need to get some of the stress out. You can't exactly go around yelling at frustrating customers or punching holes into walls, but you can certainly lay into the Stress Buster Desktop Punching Bag.
After all, taking the abuse of the day is literally what it was designed for. It's just the right size to attach to the top of a desk or on a bookshelf so that when you're at the end of your rope (or just need a distraction), a hit or two is all it will take to work some of the aggression out. Mostly.
Whether you're going for your morning cup of coffee, an afternoon cup of tea, or snuggling up with hot chocolate by a campfire, these Ceramic Camping Mugs bring something special to the table.
These big, sturdy cups are perfect for whatever you want to enjoy. They hold 15 ounces and come in designs specifically made to create smiles. Even if you're not camping, enjoy your morning cup of coffee with your hands wrapped around one of these mugs and go on a quiet mental trip to a cozy campfire in the mountains.
It can be a challenge to find something special, unique, useful, or fun when you're looking for a gift, especially to find those things in a price range that's reasonable. Thankfully, we've got plenty of options--there are way more than just these five great grabs for under $25.
]]>The overall best way to make it easier on yourself is to break it down into parts, and the best way to do that is with stations.
Making stations at your party might sound like turning it into an elementary school classroom, but you don't have to be quite so basic with it. Instead, break it down like this:
Want to give your guests a head start that requires minimal effort and, if you're lucky, very little maintenance? Create a bar from a cart or table and direct guests to it as they come in.
Decorate it simply with coasters, trays, cool decanters, and flasks, and load it up with enough ice, drinks, and glasses to last a while. Chill a bottle of wine and have it on ice ready to go, as well. Giving your guests options on drinks (without the mess of a signature cocktail or tedious mixed drinks) will keep them satisfied while keeping you cool under pressure.
Near the bar or in an area where you want to encourage your guests to mingle, set up a table for appetizers.
Don't stress yourself out over the appetizers, though--make a few homemade options (and homemade doesn't have to mean difficult--try some simple crostini, pinwheels, or canapes) , then fill out the table with easy items like pretzels, olives, and nuts. These are staple bar snacks for a reason, and they'll satisfy everyone's craving for something to munch (and let's face it, having something to do with their hands).
If you're doing a dinner party, the next stop is the dinner table. Of course, this is probably where most of your focus will be, but there's one handy tip to keep in mind when throwing a dinner party to keep your stress levels low: don't experiment. It's really fun to try new and exciting dishes in the kitchen, but when you're cooking and serving guests, it's much less stressful to cook something you know you can make, the kind of dish you could make with your eyes closed and one hand tied behind your back.
Also, you can make the decor both extremely classy and super simple by sticking with a fine white tablecloth and white dishes, and then punctuating that with a bright color, like bold orange or red flowers and napkins. No need to go out of your way trying to make a theme or something too upscale--simple, classic, elegant work well and don't require too much!
Mm, a good dessert can go a long way in finishing up a great party, but that doesn't mean you have to go for 5-star homemade pastries here. Instead, try individual servings of desserts that are easy to make and serve, like cupcakes (pick up some great ones from your local bakery and put them on a cake stand--we won't tell!), cookies, and mini cheesecakes.
Whatever party you throw and however you make the magic happen, remember to take a deep breath and enjoy it as much as possible. Chances are, not everything will be perfect, but that's okay--roll with the punches and everyone will have a great time.
]]>If you're looking for ways to make your child's room more inviting and interesting, you don't have to invest in a full redecoration. In fact, there are a few pieces you can pick up that will make your kiddo's room a fun place to be in no time!
Have you ever had that moment when one of your children decided to become an artist--on your walls? Maybe you came around a corner and there was a scribbled mural on the hallway wall. Maybe it was a juice box masterpiece in their bedroom, streaks of grape juice half-dry and still sticky in the bedroom or a fingerpainted fridge in colors you didn't even know existed.
Reusable Wall Stickers give your kids the freedom to be creative on the walls (or fridge or windows or toy box or laptop...) without that crushing feeling you get when you know you're going to spend the next few hours scrubbing a wall. They stick and re-stick without leaving any marks or residue.
Because they come in a variety of sets, you can choose the theme you like best or collect them all for a full-on artistic expression (without the hassle. Or the sponges).
Most kids go through a phase where they're a little afraid of the dark, and even if your kiddo is a night owl, adding a lamp can go a long way in helping them get comfortable in the evening.
Don't just settle for any lamp, though--get the one they can customize themselves! These Design Your Own Lamps allow you to use drawings or photos to create a lamp shade. Take your kid's favorite dinosaur or house or space drawing and turn it into just-the-right fit for their room, and when you're ready for a change, just switch out the insert with something new!
When you can keep something creative, individualized, and fresh, that's an investment worth making.
Modern kids are as much about money and technology as we are, but teaching them the responsibility of saving money is still just the same as it's always been, and when you have young children, the visual reminder of using a bank to store change can be a great tool.
Of course, that doesn't mean it has to be boring. In fact, teaching kids to save money should be fun (and it will definitely help in the long run if it isn't seen as a chore!). That's where choosing a fun bank for your kids' coin collection can help.
Choose from a wide collection, including kittens, puppies, unicorns, dinosaurs, and even a yellow submarine. Whatever will make your child smile, you can find it here.
When it comes to your kid's room, you know what they like probably more than anyone, and finding the little things that make it feel fun and inviting and encourage them to hang out (and maybe even encourage them to keep it clean!) is one of the small things in life that make it just a little bit brighter.
]]>Here's a look at four of the best and easiest trends to wear that are sure to make you stand out for all the right reasons.
You may have used red to add a splash of color and interest to an outfit many times, but this time, red is the outfit. Making a splash on the runways this season is the bright, bold color from head to toe.
Going for this look means holding nothing back; think: red dresses, long red trench coats, monochromatic suits. The great news about this trend is that it's easy; you can even pair your red dress with some red boots and make it easier still. Find a style you enjoy wearing, then choose it in red. Easy peasy, and you'll look like you stepped off a runway.
Mm, it's nice when fashionable and functional meet up and make something awesome happen. Unfortunately, it doesn't happen as often as it should--but it has happened this season with nylon coats.
A coat that will looks super chic, actually protects you from the weather, and you can throw it in the backseat or stow it in a suitcase without it wrinkling? Is this Christmas already?
Seriously, though, pairing a neutral, sleek-looking nylon coat or trench with a fall outfit is the most practical part of being fashionable this year, so use it while it's in!
Not your mother's--well, actually, it might be? Plaid made a even bigger comeback than previously on the runways this season, and most are reminiscent of patterns and colors used in the '70s.
So, for now, keep your '90's grunge flannels in the closet, but feel free to shop for big, bright or retro neutral plaids to add to your fall collection.
Plaid skirts, jackets, and pants are especially desirable, but don't count out a plaid dress, bag, or scarf to make this trend work.
Whether you choose flowy and loose or go for the structure of an A-line, adding a skirt that ends at mid-calf is trending hot this year, and seems to be another addition to a lot of the retro/vintage throwback we're seeing this season.
The same goes for dresses, and in either case, you'll get the most bang if the top is more fitted, directing attention to the flow and movement of the skirt. Pair with your favorite boots or sandals on warmer days, and you'll have a fall look to share!
With these trends in mind, you'll be ready for the catwalk--or dinner or the PTA meeting or that sit-down with your boss you've been avoiding--looking good wherever you are means feeling good wherever you are, and that's all right.
]]>If you have grandparents you need to show some extra love to this Grandparents Day, here's some gifts that will help you share a few smiles!
Cats are cute; even if you don't like having a cat around, it's hard to deny that a kitten is adorable. There's a reason cats are a hit on the internet, after all! You know what's even better? An adorable cat that doesn't need to eat and doesn't mew at you in the middle of the night!
The Stripe Cat Doorstop is a great gift to come home to: waiting patiently at your door looking cute as a button, what's not to adore?
9 inches tall and made from cotton filled with buckwheat, it's perfectly weighted to hold open any door in your home in a way that will make you smile.
Ever have just too many keys on your keyring? Try to find the one you need but it looks too much like another key and you end up going through three or four to get the right one? It's common and super aggravating, which is why Funky Key Caps are a great gift.
Assign one design to each important key and never wonder again and bonus: your keyring looks extra cool!
What's adorable, the perfect addition to any salt & pepper shaker or porcelain figure collection, and a perfect grandparents day gift? Okay, that really narrows the options down a lot, but thankfully the Kitten & Yarn Salt & Pepper Shaker Set delivers.
With its cute and classic style and quality craftsmanship, this is a piece that will serve you on your dining room table, in your kitchen, or as part of a collectible display to share with family and friends in years to come.
Beautiful, classic, and unique, the Pineapple Trinket Tray & Jewelry Holder is designed to be both useful and decorative. Place it on a bedside stand to keep jewelry and other small items safe at night or on a desk to hold paperclips. Use it with a flameless tea light on an end table or sweetener packets in the kitchen.
Decorative and versatile, it's the perfect gift when you're not sure what to give!
Though we're approaching fall, there's nothing that says the bright and sunny mood of summer has to leave us! These Tropical Icons Coasters (Set of 4) keep that spirit around all year long.
With their cheerful colors and designs, they're perfect for every day use or for parties and barbecues. They're made from absorbent stone and sturdy cork to provide protection to all your surfaces. Enjoy that ice cold drink with a summery smile.
Whatever grandparent you have in your life, if you want to get them a gift to say Happy Grandparents Day, you can't go wrong here. Now, to pick the right one for my own grandma!
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You ever actually go looking for your bottle opener? First of all, if you can find it, you're probably already doing better than most. It's usually hiding at the bottom of a silverware or junk drawer, hopelessly lost to the millions of other things in there, never ready when you need it.
Well, the Royal Diamond Bottle Opener fixes that by being actually cool. Forget putting it in a drawer, leave it on your counter or hanging above your stove. No shame in this piece, it can stand on its own alongside anything else in your kitchen and look perfectly at home.
When you think of words to describe a kitchen timer--well, does anything really come to mind? Useful, sure. Necessary. Timely? Ha!
What doesn't come to mind are probably words like, "funny," "quirky," and "artsy," but that's exactly what the UFO Kitchen Timer fulfills. Because it's magnetic, you can stick it to your refrigerator or oven hood. Because it's an accurate, high-quality timer, you can use it for anything you're baking or cooking. And because it looks like a UFO, well, you can enjoy that it looks pretty darn cool in your kitchen.
Would your dentist appreciate a tooth full of chocolate? Okay, probably not, but that doesn't mean you can't enjoy the Sweet Tooth Cookie Jar (don't worry, we won't tell your dentist!).
Not only is it a great container for holding your cookies or candy, it's also cute and a perfect piece to keep around to conjure up a giggle or a grin from your favorite cookie monster.
No one likes water rings on their counters and end tables, but coasters can seem so dated, right? Maybe if you get the wrong coasters, but with the Llama Llikes You coaster set, your counters will be protected and you'll have something cute to talk about.
C'mon, who can say no to a happy-to-see you llama? It's a win-win-win: cold drinks, big grins, and no water marks.
What's not to love about a fresh cup of tea made from fresh, loose leaves? Oh, right, the effort. And sometimes the mess if you aren't the most skilled at tea-making.
But that's exactly what the Tea Infuser Pipe is for: the practical shape is perfect for making tea and it looks nifty both while it's brewing and while it's hanging out in your kitchen. Whether you're giving it as a gift, making a great cup of tea for yourself, or hanging out with friends having your own tea party, this hits the spot.
Everyone loves a good play on words, and it's hard not to appreciate the Daily Grind Pepper Grinder. Step into a jazzy rendering of a busy restaurant while you add freshly cracked pepper to whatever suits your fancy.
Its unique, artsy design will easily trump any plain pepper grinder you've been using and immediately become a centerpiece you'll love to talk about.
What's better than a really cool sugar shaker? A really cool sugar shaker that also acts as a timer, of course. That's probably why the Sweet Spirits Sugar Shaker made Food Network Magazine's "100 Gifts for Food Lovers" list!
With its sugar skull inspired design, it's a stand-out piece in any kitchen, and you'll definitely be talking about it over hot, sweet cups of coffee with friends...or you might just enjoy it alone in the mornings when you dare anyone to talk before you've finished that first cup.
Either way, it's a hit!
Whether you're the foodie in your family and are excited to add some of these fun pieces to your kitchen collection or you know someone for whom these will be the perfect gifts, there's plenty to give and receive!
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One of the biggest issues in dorm rooms (you know, besides the complete lack of personality) is space. While it might not seem like a huge consideration, having more space can open itself up to a lot more possibilities and make the space not only feel bigger, but also a lot more like home.
When you're looking to stretch space, look for:
The more purposes a piece serves, the more useful it becomes!
Speaking of multifunctional pieces and making space, simply lifting your bed into the air can free up an entire wall's worth! By putting your bed on a loft, you can create a seating area underneath with a small couch, comfy chairs, or some of those stacking stools mentioned above.
You can also turn that space into the perfect study nook with a desk, chair, and charger set up for your computer without it being uncomfortably cramped.
If you already have a bed and you just want to get it in the air, you can buy loft kits that use a wall as an anchor and lift your bed right off the ground.
If you've got harsh overhead lighting in your room, it'll make it feel clinical at best and like an elementary school classroom at worst. The easiest solution? Never use it!
Instead, find some softer lighting options: small lamps (or lamps you can hang on the wall sconce-style, even better!) or flameless candle sets can create a much more inviting atmosphere and feel a lot more like home. Don't be afraid to experiment with different bulbs and lighting options until you find the right combination for your space.
Dorm room floors usually consist of one of two things: hard tile/wood or old carpet. Either way, not exactly the most comfortable or most welcoming thing for your feet. Investing in a rug that you like, both for the way it looks and the way it feels, can go a long way for any room that needs a better floor.
Find a rug that mostly fills the space, leaving just a little bit of room at the edges, and look for something that will last and something that you genuinely enjoy (after all, you'll probably be looking at it for a while!)
It's amazing what this one little thing can do for a space with a bad floor, but you'll be glad you made the investment in the long run.
Whether it's your favorite pictures from home arranged in an artful wall of frames or your favorite paintings, prints, and posters on full display, having something with personality on the wall will absolutely bring your space back to the kind of place you can spend your time in. There are so many options: frames, photo boards, wall art, wall clocks, posters, even hand-made washi tape designs have made an appearance.
Don't forget accessories, too; from throw pillows and blankets to tablecloths and coasters, this is the perfect place to display the things that make you happy, and the value in that is priceless.
Don't be afraid. Though taking care of a plant can seem a little intimidating in a dorm, there are a lot of plants that are extremely easy to maintain (see also: cactus!) that will bring some much-needed freshness and life into your new space.
You don't need anything too complicated, and if you aren't exactly sure what to get, visit a local nursery and ask for suggestions for the easiest plants to care for in a home (believe me, someone there is waiting for someone to ask this question!).
A little goes a long way, and just that little bit of freshness on a gloomy day can make a big difference.
The important thing is to make the space your own. It's your home, even if it's only temporary, so make it as enjoyable as you can!
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