Since the very first year we were married, my husband and I have set aside time to set goals before the start of each New Year. This has worked well for us in general, but it has become difficult to find time for this—and we’ve had a more difficult time achieving our goals—as our family has grown. In an attempt to make sure we … [Read more...] about 8 Alternatives to New Year’s Resolutions
holidays
30 Questions to Ask Around the Christmas Dinner Table
Our everyday lives are so busy that I find it increasingly important that we use the time we have with our families strategically. Holidays are times that we can really slow down and enjoy being with each other. However, on Christmas, it’s not unusual for things like presents and baking to commandeer our focus away from family and … [Read more...] about 30 Questions to Ask Around the Christmas Dinner Table
Christmas Light Scavenger Hunt
One of the things my kids really enjoyed doing this past fall was going on a scavenger hunt. We used a printable that I created a couple of years ago (find it here). They had so much fun walking through our neighborhood in search of the items pictured on the printable. I’ve made a similar printable for a Christmas light scavenger hunt! … [Read more...] about Christmas Light Scavenger Hunt
Why to Eat Pie the Night Before Thanksgiving
Pie is the traditional dessert to eat after Thanksgiving dinner, but the best time to eat pie may actually be the night before Thanksgiving. I don’t know what it’s like in your house, but we tend to be pretty full after Thanksgiving dinner. It’s common for us to not even be hungry for dessert after eating turkey, sweet potatoes, … [Read more...] about Why to Eat Pie the Night Before Thanksgiving
Should We Celebrate The Thanksgiving Holiday?
When I was a young child, my teachers taught me a whitewashed version of the “first Thanksgiving.” We learned about a harmonious celebration between the Pilgrims and “Indians.” I remember one year we even dressed up as Pilgrims and Indians to reenact the first Thanksgiving feast. Thankfully, most Americans are now aware that this … [Read more...] about Should We Celebrate The Thanksgiving Holiday?
How Gratitude Improves Our Lives
November is a month during which psychology experts and laypeople alike laud the benefits of gratitude. They say that gratitude benefits our mental and physical health (improved sleep, decreased pain, fewer illnesses, etc.). Numerous researchers have identified these benefits in the studies they’ve conducted on gratitude. I’m super … [Read more...] about How Gratitude Improves Our Lives
Birthday Cake Pancakes
The oldest of my three daughters had her fifth birthday earlier this month! She loves sprinkles, so I decided to make Birthday Cake Pancakes for breakfast as part of our celebration. I’ve seen these made using boxed cake mixes, but they are easy to make from scratch. They make a birthday morning—or any other morning—extra … [Read more...] about Birthday Cake Pancakes
Using Fall Decor to Promote Gratitude
Some individuals really have a knack for home decorating, but I’m not one of them. I don’t have a lot of time, money, or talent to put into decorating, so I focus a lot more on function than form. However, I’m keenly aware that the appearance of my home impacts the atmosphere in my home. I want the atmosphere in my home to be warm and peaceful … [Read more...] about Using Fall Decor to Promote Gratitude
