Category: Activities

10 Affordable Outdoor Summer Activities

Looking for some affordable outdoor summer activities? The summertime is quickly approaching, and most of us are already excited about all the fun things we plan to do, like lounging by the pool, going on vacation, and relaxing with friends and family.

But what about those who aren’t so keen on breaking the bank to live life to the fullest? You can still have fun this summer without spending tons of money. We’ve put together a list of affordable outdoor summer activities that won’t cost you an arm and a leg.

1.) Hiking

Even if you don’t live in the mountains, you can still have a fantastic hiking trip. You’ll be amazed at the number of trails you can discover in your neighborhood. It’s easy to find trails near you by visiting your city’s parks and recreation page or searching online.

This is a great yet free way to get out of the house and into the natural world. Hiking is an excellent way to exercise while enjoying the beautiful scenery. There are also many opportunities for camping along many hiking trails, so you could easily turn a day hike into an overnight adventure.

Try rock climbing if you’re looking for something more intense than just walking on flat ground. Rock climbing allows people of all ages and skill levels to enjoy being outside while challenging themselves physically.

2.) Kayaking

Whether you’re looking for a new physical challenge or just want to enjoy nature, kayaking is a fun, low-cost activity that all ages can enjoy. The best part? Kayaking doesn’t require any special equipment—all you need is a paddle and life vest (both are available at local stores).

Don’t want to spend money on renting/buying equipment? Try checking out your local lake association website; many offer free kayak rentals during certain times of the year.

3.) Camping

Various state and national parks offer affordable camping options, so you can still get out there and experience nature without breaking your budget. Try pitching a tent at a local park instead of renting a hotel room for a night, or try out one of many camping apps that help you find new campgrounds in your area.

And don’t forget about nearby National Forests. Most are free to enter, and many have developed campsites with basic amenities like picnic tables, grills, restrooms, and running water.

Just remember: you must pack everything in (including food) and pack everything out when you leave. If you plan on having a fire while camping—which is a great way to make food taste better—you’ll need a permit from your local forest service office before heading out into the woods.

4.) Visit A Farmer’s Market

One of my favorite activities, farmer’s markets, is a great place to shop for fresh produce, meat, and even handmade products. Farmer’s markets are typically very affordable (depending on where you live), so they can be great ways to save money while shopping.

Not only will you be buying healthy, organic food, but you will also be supporting local farmers, which is a fantastic way of giving back to your community.

5.) Enjoy The Outdoors At Night

For those who don’t mind getting dirty, you can have tons of fun with outdoor activities at night. Start by going stargazing. Here’s how to make your first outing a huge success. Try an evening bike ride or walk if you’re looking for something more active.

The extra darkness will give you a whole new perspective on your surroundings and allow you to see things that are usually hidden in plain sights—like fireflies. If biking isn’t your thing, why not try paddleboarding?

It is an excellent low-impact way to enjoy some water time after sunset.

6.) Picnics

Whether on a sandy beach or in your backyard, picnics are one of the summer’s most enjoyable experiences. They’re low-key, affordable, and a great opportunity for family bonding time.

If you want to save money while still having fun with your loved ones, consider packing a picnic instead of going out to eat. Pack healthy snacks like fresh fruit and veggies (or even trail mix) and cut down on costs by bringing reusable water bottles instead of buying plastic ones at restaurants.

7.) Go for a Bike Ride

Biking is an incredibly fun and inexpensive way to get outside and enjoy a great summer day. It doesn’t have to be competitive, but it can be if you want it. Get together with friends or family and plan your route ahead of time.

Take turns leading, so everyone can experience leadership while having fun outside together.

8.) Go Swimming

Swimming is an activity that everyone can enjoy, from children to elderly adults. Swimming is an excellent cardiovascular exercise and a good workout for your upper body and core muscles.

Additionally, swimming burns more calories per hour than most other exercises. Even if you’re a beginner, you can start swimming today. You can swim at home if you have a pool or access to a community pool or visit one of many local pools in your area.

If you live near water, there are plenty of lakes and rivers where you can go for a refreshing dip in nature. No matter what type of swimming environment suits you best, it’s likely that there are affordable options available near where you live.

9.) Nature Walks

Hiking and walking through nature is one of my favorite pastimes. It’s a great activity that doesn’t require much money, but it also helps make you healthier, feels more alive, and sleep better at night.

Find an old hiking trail or nature walk near you for a great (and free) way to enjoy summer. You can even bring your pet along.

10.) Local Fairs/Festivals

There are so many local fairs and festivals happening all summer long that you really can’t afford not to visit at least once. It doesn’t matter where you live—there are events worth seeing, no matter where you are.

Many of these events also have special activities for kids so that it can be a fun but cheap activity for families. Looking at your state’s tourism site is a great place to start; most offer an event calendar for each region.

Paying for summer activities can be a burden on many families. But there are plenty of free or low-cost activities that provide tons of fun and entertainment. From parks to libraries to museums, you’ll find something here.

And don’t forget about all those great outdoors—you can have an entire day of affordable outdoor summer activities. So what are you waiting for? Get out there and enjoy your summer.

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How to Start a Garden on a Budget

Spring and summer are perfect seasons to start a garden on a budget. Getting your hands dirty and growing fruits, vegetables and flowers is an ideal stress reliever for many people; however, the costs associated with gardening can quickly add up. Luckily, there are numerous ways to garden cheaply while still getting the most out of your space. Read on to learn how to get your dream garden by purchasing what you need, where to get it, and planning your space perfectly.

5 Essential Tools for a Home Garden

There are an assortment of gardening tools available; however, the beginner gardener can get by just fine with the following:

Shears

Whether you decide to purchase hand shears or loopers (long-handled pruners), sheers allow you to keep your plants nice and tidy by clipping away excess growth, dead stems, etc. The main thing to remember when using shears is not to go crazy with the removal as this can kill the plant. Finally, make sure you do not prune the top of the plant as this will inhibit new growth. There are an assortment of shears available, however, most people will be fine with a bypass pruner.

Gloves

Depending on what’s in your beds, gardening can become a painful activity. Thorns and weeds can all cause damage to the hands—in addition to getting dirt under your nails. Gardening gloves will allow you to keep your hands nice and clean while working outside, protecting your hands all day long. Purchase gloves that are durable but not bulky, fit your hands and offer longer cuffs to protect your wrists and arms.

Trowel

A trowel is best thought of like a mini shovel, and it will more than pay for itself as you garden. From digging plant holes for transplanting to removing weeds, a trowel will quickly become one of your most-used gardening tools. Look for a trowel that’s comfortable in your hand and made with a stainless-steel head for durability.

Rake

Leaves, debris and weeds can all make a garden look unseemly; however, a quality rake can make cleanup a breeze. While most people will remember the cheap, lightweight green rakes that used to dominate gardening, gardeners now realize the best rakes are a more solid metal design. While these rakes aren’t quite as cheap, they will last you for years to come.

Wheelbarrow

Wheelbarrows make gardening in larger areas significantly easier, allowing you to transport large amounts of soil, rock or mulch with ease. They also make you put less strain on your back. The humble wheelbarrow comes in a variety of different forms; however, most people will choose a double-handle if they’re planning on lifting a lot of heavy material while a single-handle allows for more versatility and is easier to balance.

How to Start a Garden on a Budget

Now that you have all the tools you need for your garden, it’s time to begin planning and building your space:

Utilize Containers

If you have limited space or want to bring color to a specific area of your yard, container gardening might be the right call for you. Simply choose containers that fit with the scheme you’re looking for and plant flowers, vegetables or fruits (there are even smaller varieties of fruit trees for this) in containers for a beautiful garden space. Worried about watering? Depending on where you live, you might be able to pipe water lines directly into the containers.

Reuse What You Have

If you are the ultimate DIY-er, this tip is right up your alley. Look around your home for old furniture or furnishings that you aren’t using. You’d be shocked at how great a planter door can look or the versatility that comes with repurposing a nightstand as a garden table.

Attract Wildlife

Squirrels, birds and butterflies are garden staples, and it’s important to create things that will attract them to your garden space. While we’re not advocating for a Snow White experience, adding or planting elements that attract wildlife creates a whole new dimension to your yard. Look to add a couple birdhouses, squirrel feeders and butterfly attracting plants to your garden.

Look At Veggies

One of the main things people love about gardening is the ability to grow their own food. However, many people also want a garden that looks beautiful with plenty of flowers as well. To solve this conundrum, consider planting bright vegetable plants among your flowers. Chilis and tomatoes are popular with many due to their bright, colorful fruits; however, berries and squash can create lively additions as well.

Grow Up, Not Out

If you have limited garden space, it can be difficult to plan a garden that fits everything you want in it. However, instead of looking to garden out, consider gardening up. Upright planters can allow you to utilize otherwise empty wall space either by offering a trellis for climbing varieties or with small pots scattered on a board. Furthermore, hanging pots can be placed nearly anywhere, giving pops of color to otherwise dreary areas. Once you begin gardening up, the possibilities are endless.

Create a Focal Point

Once you plant a garden on a budget, you’ll likely want to spend some time out there. Consider creating a focal point area that you and your guests can enjoy. This can be as simple as a conversational area with repurposed furniture to bigger focal points like gazebos, ponds or even an outdoor cinema space. Take the time to consider what you and your loved ones like to do and create a space that reflects those interests.

Gardening cheaply isn’t impossible once you know what to do. From having the five necessary tools to looking to create a garden that matches your interests, creating a beautiful outdoor space is likely more affordable than you would expect. Whether you decide to create a miniature wildlife refuge, grow enough fruit- and vegetable-producing plants to feed a small town, or want to make a flower garden that anyone will envy, following the above tips will help you create the garden of your dreams.

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Ways To Work Out In The Spring On A Budget

There are plenty of ways to work out on a budget. You don’t need to join an expensive gym or purchase fancy equipment. The warm weather in spring calls for you to go outside and get active. You may want to shed off some winter weight or start your fitness journey. But how can you do this without breaking the bank? Here are some suggestions:

Outdoor Yoga

Yoga is a great way to start your day, and what could be more refreshing than practicing in the great outdoors? There are plenty of yoga poses that you can do outdoors without any special equipment. Find a park or nature trail near you and get your om on!

If you are new to yoga, it might be good to attend a class or workshop first. There are plenty of free courses offered in most cities. You can also use YouTube videos as a guide.

You can connect with nature and get your workout in simultaneously with outdoor yoga. It is cheap, easy, and fun!

Work Out with Friends

You can get social and get fit by working out with friends. There are so many activities that you can do as a group. Soccer, basketball, baseball, hiking, and camping are all great activities to do with friends. Not only will you get a good workout, but you will also have fun!

If you are uncertain about where to start, ask your friends for suggestions. They probably will be more than happy to share their favorite activities with you.

Working out with friends will keep you motivated and have fun. It’s also a great way to save money because you can split the cost of gas or admission fees.

Join a Cheap Gym

Gyms can be expensive, but a few gyms offer low monthly rates. If you don’t mind working out in a group setting, then a cheap gym might be good.

Most gyms offer free trials, so you can test out the facility before signing up. Make sure to ask about the monthly rates and any other fees that might apply.

If you are looking for a more personalized workout experience, you might want to invest in a personal trainer. Personal trainers can be expensive, but there are also a few that offer affordable rates.

Now that you are on a budget, you can start with a cheap gym within your budget. Just be sure to check out the rates and fees before signing up. You don’t want any surprises down the road.

Work out at Home

If you want to save some money, consider working out at home. You can use your body weight as resistance or purchase some inexpensive equipment. Additionally, working out at home is an excellent option if you are short on time.

There are plenty of workouts that you can do in your own home. YouTube is an excellent resource for finding free exercises. Just type in the type of workout you are looking for, and find tons of videos.

Working out at home is a great way to get in a workout while they play if you have kids. You can also use this time to catch up on your favorite show or podcast.

Working out at home is cheap, convenient, and accessible. You can tailor the workout to fit your own needs and schedule.

Walk or Run in your Neighborhood

There are many ways to get fit in spring, but walking or running in your neighborhood is the cheapest and most accessible. It is free, and it is also a great way to see your area. If you are looking for a more challenging workout, try running hills.

If you are new to running, start by walking first. Then, slowly work your way up to running. You might also want to try out the Couch to 5k program.

The best part about walking or running in your neighborhood is that you can do it whenever you have time. There is no need to make reservations or drive somewhere. As long as the weather is nice, put on your shoes and go!

Get a Bike

Outdoor cycling will give you a great workout while enjoying the spring weather. You can find bikes relatively cheaply or even borrow one from a friend.

Cycles can offer a great cardio workout, and if you stick to hills and terrain that are a little more challenging, you can add strength training to your routine.

Research shows that cyclists also have lower rates of heart disease and cancer, so getting on your bike is a great way to improve your health! If you’re not used to cycling, start slowly and build up the distance and intensity of your rides. You don’t want to injure yourself before you’ve even had a chance to enjoy the benefits of cycling.

Outdoor Sports

Spring is the best time to join the group sports or start a game that you have wanted to do. Many cities have free leagues for softball, soccer, or basketball. You can also find groups that play tag or frisbee golf.

Joining a group is a great way to make friends and have fun. Most of these sports are also very social, so you can chat with your friends while working up a sweat.

These sports are a great way to stay active, but they are also affordable. You don’t need any fancy equipment or gear, just a good pair of sneakers.

One of the sports that are growing in popularity is pick-up soccer. It is a great way to exercise and have fun with friends.

Swim at the Local Pool

Swimming is a great workout, and you can swim in any weather. Swimming is a low-impact exercise, so it is excellent for people just starting to get active.

Swimming is a great way to improve your cardiovascular health, and it is also a great way to tone your body. Not to mention, swimming is a lot of fun.

Most communities have public pools open during the spring and summer months.

Join a YMCA or Community Center Health Club

If you are looking for a more structured workout, joining a YMCA or community center might be the right option. These facilities offer a variety of classes and activities that can help you meet your fitness goals.

The best part about joining a YMCA or community center is that the cost is often meagre. In some cases, you can join for free. You also have the option of purchasing a membership that fits your budget.

The spring is a great time to get active and stay healthy. There are many ways to work out without spending a lot of money. You can walk, run, cycle, play sports, or swim at the local pool. You can also join a YMCA or community center health club. Whatever option you choose, make sure to fit it into your schedule and needs. It should also be safe and effective. Remember to have fun and stay healthy!

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Spring Activities for Kids

Are you looking for spring activities for kids? Spring break is a time when you can enjoy various fun outdoor activities that create precious family memories. Many great ideas will keep your whole family entertained as you bond with your kids while they still think it’s a cool thing to hang out together. After the long cold winter, it would be nice to get out there and soak up the pleasant weather and celebrate spring.

Here are some spring activities for kids to have a splendid time during spring break.

Go Camping

Although the weather might still be a little chilly at this time in some parts, camping is a great idea. Kids enjoy the real-life adventure that the woods offer, so grab a tent, pack your bags, and set out to camp. You will need proper camping gear, including sleeping bags and other camping equipment, to make this possible.

You do not necessarily have to leave the confines of your compound to camp as you can do it in your backyard. Camping itself provides many spring activities for kids. It can be fun setting up a tent together, sleeping outdoors, and cooking outdoors. You will get the feeling of being away from home without the stress of traveling.

Go Sailing

Spring break is not a perfect time for the beach as the weather is not yet warm enough. However, if your family enjoys anything to do with water, then you can take a sailboat and sail to the horizon. It would be a perfect opportunity for your kids to have fun fishing and playing while the adults relax in the cool breeze and sunshine. You could bring some friends with you and spend your day barbequing and playing games.

Take a Road Trip

Road trips are always fun as you get to visit various cities while making stops for sightseeing. It is a budget-friendly family activity since you do not have to book expensive hotels to have a fabulous weekend away from home. Your kids will enjoy visiting new places, and you may as well take them to some famous places such as historical sites on the way.

Have a Picnic

Spring is a time when the outdoors are lush green, and you will enjoy playing and spending time on the grass fields. You can plan for a family picnic either in the park or elsewhere appropriate to enjoy eating and drinking while playing all kinds of outdoor games. As a parent, you can take this time to engross yourself in your favourite book while the kids enjoy playing around.

Treasure Hunting

All kids love treasure hunts where they compete to solve riddles, and they are pretty easy to set up. You only need to set aside one evening and get creative with clues while hiding things as they sleep. Have prizes and sweet treats for them when they solve the mystery to make the hunt worth their time. You can encourage them to have some friends over so that the game can be more fun.

Gardening

Home gardening is usually not done during the cold winter months, and spring is a perfect time to set up a garden if you want to have it all summer long. You can get creative on how you want to use or improve your outdoor space. You can choose to plant fruits and vegetables or privacy bushes, flowers, and shrubs in your backyard. Involve your kids in selecting the flowers to grow and teach them how to take care of the garden.

Bike Riding

Family bike riding can be a great pastime during summer if your family like sports. It is a great way to exercise and be outside together while your kids try out their new biking skills. Biking, just like hiking, can be easy or challenging depending on whether you choose to go for road biking or mountain biking along the trails. Make sure to have additional clothing and equipment if you ride in the chilly spring weather.

Go Hiking

Hiking can be a wonderful experience as your kids will enjoy seeing different plants and creatures while they savour breathtaking sceneries. It requires little equipment, but you need to wear proper hiking shoes and a backpack for the necessities. Just like biking, you will get a good workout. Pick a family-friendly trail that you are sure your kids will manage, and always let someone know where you are heading, and the time you expect to return.

Make a Splash in the rain

Have fun in the spring rain showers to the fullest by putting on your rain gear and heading out to play in the puddles. Make mud pies, see who makes the biggest splash, get dirty and revel in the boggy mess. You can have much fun in the rain, like singing, making boats from recycled items, and collecting the rain in different containers to produce different sounds. It may seem childish, but your kids will have a wonderful time sharing the experience with you.

Fly a Kite

The spring winds are great for kite flying in the park or open fields with no trees or power lines nearby. Kids love kites, and even when the wind is not favourable for the kites to fly, you will still find them having fun trying to get them to go up. You can combine this with other activities like creating a windsock, pinwheel or weather vane to catch the wind, and your kids will learn more about the wind.

Spring break is a time with lots of fun activities, and you only need to be creative enough to find something exciting to do. Much of the action takes place outside as the weather is perfect, and people are tired of the restrictions that come with winter. However, you can make good use of your time at home or in the neighborhood if you don’t feel like venturing to distant place to have fun. The kind of fun you decide to have depends on your budget and flexibility.

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The Most Common and Do-Able New Year’s Resolutions

As you write out your New Year’s resolutions, you know you’re going to complete every single item on this year’s list. Unfortunately, most people tend to write the same things every single year, hoping that this year will be the one. Luckily, we’re here to help. Keep reading to learn how to complete people’s most common New Year’s resolutions and make 2022 your year.

What Do You Want to Do This Year?

Before we begin, let’s take a look at the ten most common New Year’s resolutions:

Lose Weight/Get Fit/Diet
Quit Smoking/Drinking
Eliminate Debt
Get Organized
Learn a New Language/Skill/Hobby
Spend Time with Family
Travel
Read More
Reduce Stress
Volunteer

Most likely, you’re looking to accomplish at least one thing on this list. Take the time to narrow what you want to do into a couple of goals. For example, a lot of people will create ungodly long lists in the hopes of living up to the “New Year, New Me” motto. When they do this, they’re setting themselves up for failure, creating a list of goals they’ll quickly feel overwhelmed by. By selecting 2-3, you’re more likely to accomplish what you want and won’t feel like you’ve “failed” within a few weeks.

Set S.M.A.R.T. Goals

If you work in the business world, you’ve probably heard of S.M.A.R.T. goals. S.M.A.R.T. goals are specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, and occur within a specific timeframe. So, what does this look like in action? Let’s say your goal is to “lose weight.” This is vague and can mean 100 different things to 100 different people. When we set a S.M.A.R.T. weight loss goal, it becomes something like, “I want to lose 50 pounds over the next year by working out three times a week, making healthier eating decisions and aiming to lose 5 pounds a month.”

Make Sure Your New Year’s Resolutions Motivate

Another problem we frequently see with New Year’s resolutions are goals that really don’t motivate. Non-motivational goals fall into two camps: too hard and too easy. If your goal is to travel more, you’re probably not going to hit all seven continents in seven weeks (if you can, seriously, please take us with you).

On the flip side, you’re likely not going to find a lot of satisfaction traveling to the same vacation spot you’ve had for seven years. Look for something in-between. So, if your goal is to travel to a foreign country, look to include a couple of different cities/states/countries while you’re there. For example, if you want to go to Spain, why not include a few days in Portugal or France as well? By including a few bonus stops that won’t break the bank, you’ve created a more motivating goal.

Break Down Goals

Your New Year’s resolutions are likely pretty big goals, and this can quickly overwhelm just about anyone. Instead of putting something monumental and getting lost in the process of completing it, break your goal down into measurable steps. How does this work in action? Let’s say you want to quit smoking, and right now you smoke a pack a day. In the first month, aim to get your smoking down to about 10-15 cigarettes a day by the end of the month. You’re already halfway there! The following month, look to cut your smoking down by a third to a half again. By the end of the year, you’ll have quit smoking entirely, and you’ll have been able to do it by slowly weaning yourself off through small stepping stone goals.

Write Goals Down

Writing down your goals may seem passe, but there are plenty of reasons to bring out the pen and paper, including:

You’re more likely to remember things you write versus typing them out.
Your goals will be clearer and more concise.
You can easily post them anywhere. A lot of people find putting their goals someplace they see every day, whether on their bathroom mirror or on the fridge, keeps them on track and make better decisions every day.
If you regularly review them, they can become a great motivating tool to see how far you’ve come on your journey.

While it’s perfectly fine to put your goals on your phone, most people find writing them down gives them regular motivation; however, typing them out and making them your lock screen or wallpaper is also perfectly fine as well.

Tell Your Friends Your Resolutions

Your friends likely have a lot of the same goals as you, so now is the perfect time to connect with them. When you tell others your goals, you’re more likely to complete them due to the instant accountability telling someone about the goal establishes. If you find someone who has the same goal, look to partner up with them. For example, if you want to read more, the two (or more) of you can start a book club, meeting once a month to discuss your latest book.

Don’t Beat Yourself Up

Look, making a major life change is difficult, and you will slip up. Whether it’s a piece of cake on your diet or splurging on something for yourself, you’re going to have hiccups as you work to meet your goal. If an oopsie happens, make sure you:

Take a breath. There’s nothing stopping you from working towards your goal for the rest of the day.
Don’t beat yourself up. Far too often, people put themselves through a guilt trip that actually dissuades them from pursuing their goal.
Reevaluate your goals. Sometimes we set ourselves for failure by making huge goals no one can complete. Look to see if your goals are achievable and make adjustments as needed.

Setting New Year’s resolutions can be fun, and reaching your goals will feel rewarding once you’re done. Take the time to create S.M.A.R.T. resolutions, regularly reevaluate as necessary, enlist a friend and don’t beat yourself up when you have a setback. By following the above tips, you’ll reach your goals in no time.

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25 Activities To Do In The Winter

Are you looking for activities to do in the winter? As the weather gets chillier and festive holiday cheer abounds, indoor and outdoor winter activities are guaranteed to keep you entertained this season. Whether you love unwinding by the fire with a cup of hot cocoa or prefer a more sporty activity like ice skating, the winter season has something for everyone. Here are 25 activities to do in the winter.

1. Make Hot Chocolate Bombs

These tasty hot chocolate powder and marshmallow-filled treats require a special mold (here’s a link to purchase) and some assembly is required for the chocolate globes. We love this recipe.

2. Take a Drive to See the Holiday Lights at Night

Check your local media outlets for neighborhoods with special holiday decor and light displays for the public to enjoy.

3. Ice Skating

Strap on a pair of skates and take a spin at your local ice rink! This is also a great way to stay physically active in cold weather.

4. Bake a Panettone

This Italian sweet bread with candied fruits is a winter holiday favorite that takes a bit of time (the dough needs to rise overnight) but is well worth the wait and effort. View the recipe here.

5. Create a Scrapbook of Winter Memories

Rather than leaving all of your memories on your phone, print out your pictures this year and chronicle your wintertime adventures like experiencing the season’s first snowfall or the winter solstice.

6. See The Nutcracker

Whether it’s watching the movie on a projector while cozy at home or seeing the ballet in person, this family-friendly classic is full of magic and winter adventure.

8. Camp Out in Your Living Room

Assemble a pillow fort or break out your sleeping bags, light the fireplace or put a Yule Log video on Youtube, and bring out the snacks for an impromptu indoor camping night in.

9. Try a Winter Photo Shoot

Gather friends or family for an informal winter-themed photo shoot using DIY backdrops, such as garlands, or a snowy outdoor scene.

10. Visit a Local Museum

From modern art to natural history, there’s probably a museum or two you haven’t visited yet. Winter is the perfect time for this indoor cultural activity.

11. Create a Winter-Themed Music Playlist

Get into the spirit of the season by compiling a list of your favorite wintertime songs on Spotify to play and share with your loved ones. You’ll be surprised how many songs have a winter vibe.

12. Make a Dream or Vision Board

Have big goals for the upcoming New Year? Find inspiration from images online and in magazines to make a visual representation of your dreams and goals for the future. This can be made digitally on gomoodboard.com or by using a poster board, magazine clippings, and a glue stick.

13. Make Fake Snow

Missing real snowflakes? This simple two-ingredient recipe means you can have snow even if you’re in a warmer climate.

14. Go on a Winter Scavenger Hunt

Write down 10 things to search for around town or near your home – everything from spotting a pine cone or a Santa hat works – and the first person who checks everything off the list wins.

15. Take a Day Trip

If weather permits, go on a long drive to explore back roads, semi-local attractions, and finally visit those spots you’ve always vowed you’d stop at one day.

16. Make Waterless Snow Globes

This craft is relatively easy to do if you’re handy with a glue gun. Go here for directions.

18. Visit Winter Markets and Bazaars

Need last-minute gifts or decorations? Check out the goods and support local artisans and makers at festive markets and bazaars in your area.

19. Have a Winter-Themed Movie Night

From Frozen to Eight Below, films with wintry settings full of snow and frigid weather are a delight to watch while curled up in blankets on the couch with hot chocolate.

20. Make Pomander Balls

If you love the scent of winter citrus and fragrant spices, try your hand at making pomander balls. Simply stick whole cloves in firm oranges in the pattern of your choice. For additional scent, you can roll oranges in a mixture of spices, including cinnamon, allspice, and nutmeg. If you’d like to hang your pomander, run a long, thin wire through the middle of the orange and make a loop at the top.

21. Make a Snow Angel

Enjoy a snowy day by laying down on the snow and spreading your arms and legs to create one.

22. Make a Winter-Scented Potpourri

Fill your home with the scent of wintertime by combining spices and fruit like nutmeg, apples, and cranberries on your stovetop. We love this recipe.

23. Refresh Your Space

Get a head start on spring cleaning with a winter refresh – go through your closets and decide what items to keep, donate, or toss. Be honest about what you’ve actually worn this year, what fits, and what you no longer love or want to wear. You’ll make room for the new and any holiday presents you may receive.

24. Start a Book Club

Winter is the ideal time to curl up with a good book and catch up with dear friends – combine the two by starting a book club. Select a book that’s set in wintertime and set aside a time to meet virtually or in person to discuss the book’s plot and overall themes.

25. Play a Board Game

Snowed in? Grab a board game like Monopoly or Candyland to keep your mind occupied. Have a lot of time to keep your kids busy during winter break? A 1000 piece puzzle will do the trick.

26. Organize a Clothing Swap

Invite friends and family over one evening to share and swap gently used clothing, outerwear, and accessories. Any leftover items can be donated for people in need in the true spirit of the season.

We hope these activities keep you entertained (and warm!) all winter long.

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Top 10 Easy Budget-Friendly Crafts for Fall

Spend some time making budget-friendly crafts for fall that are easy on your wallet. Decorate your home and make exciting costumes with the whole family! Simple and easy instructions make spending time crafting a breeze. From beautiful fall lanterns your kids will love to DIY gifts for your friends and family, this fall will be the craftiest of them all.

Ditch the DIY crafts with long lists of expensive items to buy. These Budget-Friendly Crafts for Fall have 5 components or less each and are inexpensive to purchase. With these ideas, cheap doesn’t mean tacky or clunky. Each one of these fall crafts is fun, fabulous, and easy to make. Try making these budget-friendly crafts for fall with your friends, family, or co-workers!

1. Fall Leaf Lanterns

Nothing says fall like leaves and warm light. This project is simple, easy, and ecological. All you need are a couple of cheap items from your local dollar store and some fall leaves. It’s impossible to mess up and a great activity to do with kids! Try this idea out for a centerpiece on your table or on top of the fireplace.

For this craft you’ll need:

A mason jar or vase
Modge Podge
Leaves from outside
A paintbrush
Tealights

2. DIY Fox Ears Headband

Looking for an easy DIY costume? You can easily make this no-sew costume with a few simple items. This versatile craft can be used to make all different types of animal ears for endless possibilities. This costume project can be made with low-cost materials like felt, plastic headbands, and hot glue. Easy enough to make with children and fun!

For this craft you’ll need:

Felt
Hot glue
Thin plastic headband
Scissors
Sharpie

3. Crayon Drip Pumpkins

If you have kiddos in the house then no doubt you have crayons. Possibly even hundreds of broken crayons, which is perfect because they’re exactly what they need for this project! This beautiful way to recycle crayons and decorate for fall is cheap and simple, perfect for everyone. Make rainbows, stick to your favorite shades, or go monochromatic. Try it out this week!

For this craft you’ll need:

Pumpkins
Crayons
A hairdryer

4. Mummy Candles

Super cute candle holders are just a few steps away! These spooky little mummies are simple and fun to make. An excellent choice for little ones and great for brightening up the house for movie night, these mummies will light up the night. Get ready to spend an afternoon of fun making these little guys and prepare to bask in the glow!

For this craft you’ll need:

Mason jars
Large googly eyes
First aid gauze
Tealights
Hot glue

5. Fairy House Jack-O-Lantern

Creating a fun fairy house out of your jack-o-lanterns is a great way to use biodegradable ingredients. For this simple project, all you need is a pumpkin, a carving knife, a tealight, and a good imagination. You can add your own personal style to this craft with paint, flowers, and maybe some glitter too. Create a whole fairy garden with your family this fall!

For this craft you’ll need:

Pumpkins
A carving knife
Tealights
Decorations

6. DIY Coffee Cup Candles

This craft makes for a great gift for the holidays or a decoration. Transform your old mugs into wonderful candles with your choice of essential oil. You’ll be surprised at how easy candle-making can be with a few cheap ingredients from your local craft store and a whole lot of fun. Customize your signature scent and light up your home with candles that will impress your friends!

For this craft you’ll need:

Candle wax flakes
Scented oil
Candle wicks
Mugs
A pot

7. Easy DIY Bat Costume

If you or your kiddo need a costume in a hurry, this easy DIY bat costume is the perfect project for you. You can easily put together this costume with simple sewing or alternatively hot glue. Making this costume for the whole family will undoubtedly win any costume contest. Get ready for tons of batty fun and adorable memories!

For this craft you’ll need:

1.5 yards of black fabric of your choice
6 inches of elastic
Thick black fabric (or felt)
Hot glue or a needle and thread

8. $4 Dollar Tree DIY Halloween Wreath

Decorate your door with a festive Halloween wreath! You can make it spooky, leafy, or even witchy. It’s all up to you and your local dollar store. You’ll be amazed at how festive and fun these cost-effective decorations can be. All you have to do is piece them together and you’ve got a brand new wreath you can use year after year. With easy wreaths like this, everyone can decorate their own!

For this craft you’ll need:

A wreath form
A Halloween door sign (or fall-themed)
Garlands
Hot glue

9. Happy Fall Wooden Entry Sign

Make your entryway as cute as can be with this adorable wooden entry sign. This craft is cheap to make and can be tailored to your liking as you see fit. Go crazy with paint, ribbon, fabric, and more! This project is great for the whole family. You can each make your own or collaborate on one big sign altogether. Your creation awaits!

For this craft you’ll need:

Wood background for the sign
Paint
Hot glue
Lettering template
The decor of your choosing

10. Book Page Leaf Garland

Enjoy this classy-looking garland that is great for the entire fall season. Great for kids that are able to cut with scissors, this garland will liven up any room. For next to nothing, your entryway, mantle, bookcase, or door frame will look beautiful when you add this finishing touch. Take it a step further and stamp the leaves with fall colors or throw in a bit of synthetic greenery.

For this craft you’ll need:

Old books
Cardstock
Elmer’s glue
Hot glue
Floral wire

Spending time making crafts this fall is a wonderful way to bond as a family and enjoy decorating together. There’s something about making things yourself that provides a sense of accomplishment. Making these crafts will be fun, exciting, and won’t break the bank. It’s a win-win-win all around. Try your hand at any of these simple and easy projects and you’ll have a fall to remember!

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Saving Money this Fall

Saving money this fall should not be a challenge! Fall is an interesting time of year, between back to school and the holidays. There may not be a lot going on, which give a lot of opportunities to save money. In this article we will share some tips and advice on how to save up a little extra cash for the holidays.

Create a Budget

This is a great way to make sure that you not only don’t over spend, but you also save. Whether it’s groceries, going out to dinner, other forms of shopping or anything else, try to make a limit ahead of time and don’t spend over that amount!

Avoid Big Purchases

Now is not the time for big purchases. Wait until the Holiday’s come around and see how much excess money you have laying around. You know you’ll be spending on big meals and gifts in November/December, so for October it’s time to take a step back.

Take Advantage of Free Entertainment

What do we mean by this? There are many activities you can do in the fall that don’t cost a cent! Drive around and look at the leaves changing, go for a nice hike or walk and maybe even rake some leaves and jump into them!

Open the Windows

Fall is that in-between time when it may not be too hot or too cold. Don’t waste money on heat or air, and let the 60 degree weather into your homes for as long as you can!

Yard Work

Instead of paying a company to come rake your leaves, and cut your grass, do it yourself! This is also another fun activity that could involve the entire family.

These are all great suggestions for saving money this fall, now it’s up to you!

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