First Grade Christmas Activities Pack

Today, I’m sharing parenting tips on First Grade Christmas Activities for kids.  The holidays are around the corner, and the kids will be out of school soon.  Holiday movies, hot chocolate and movie night around the fireplace with the family will begin.  So, we’ve created a few printables to help keep the kids busy during their time off.  

 

 

 

first grade christmas activities

This time of year my granddaughter is excited and waiting for Santa to arrive.  However, I still want her to continue to learn and have fun with her education.  So, we created a Christmas activities pack that includes math, addition and subtraction, matching, spelling and word search and more.  We’ve included a few coloring activities too.  Who doesn’t love to color.  You can download the Christmas activities pack here.

 

 

Christmas activities for kids

 

 

So, our Christmas activities pack includes a word search that includes Christmas items.  Your child can search for words like sled, Santa and cookies.  Furthermore, we have also created an addition math sheet that encourages children to strengthen their math skills.  There’s also a math sheet that encourages your child to practice their subtraction skills.  Now that the serious work is over, let them color the Christmas tree and snowman.

 

 

Christmas activities for kids

 

 

We can’t leave out the importance of spelling out of our first grade Christmas activities.  Your first grader will practice spelling words like elf, present and cookies.  There’s also a matching activity.  For this particular activity pack, we also included pattern recognition activities.

 

Christmas Activities

 

 

Be sure to subscribe so you can receive other educational printables for kids. You may also 24 Winter Books for Kids. Reading is a fun and educational way to keep all of your children occupied this winter.  Our reading list is diverse.  We’re sure you can find something for all age groups.  Additionally, you may also like 30+ Hot Chocolate Recipes.   Our list include a crockpot recipe, polar bear, vampire and more.

Sunday’s Best Linkup – #155

Christmas decor ideas

 

Welcome to Week 155 of Mother 2 Mother Sunday’s Best Linkup. Christmas is around the corner. This is our last linkup for 2017 and the last week for our Merry Christmas to You theme.  We want to take the time to wish each of you a Merry Christmas and a Happy and Blessed New Year.  We appreciate everyone who participates in our party!  It wouldn’t be a success without you.  We will continue our linkup, January 6, 2018.  

We’re looking for Christmas crafts, recipes, decorating idea, mantel displays and more. It’s Christmas related, we’re looking for it.We also welcome other recipes, crafts, DIY, home makeover, gardening tips, SEO & blogging information, sewing projects, patio and deck makeovers, front porch makeover ideas, organization tips, ideas for backyard hot dog roasts, and more. Blow the dust off your old posts and share those on our linkup too. They’re are great for inspiration.
Anything goes, as long as it’s family friendly and you may linkup as many posts as you would like. Be sure to tell your friends, they will want to join the party too.

Each week your hosts will select their favorite post and it will be featured the following week. An image from your post will be used on our linkup post the following week with a link back to your blog. Be sure to check back to see if you’re a Sunday’s Best Featured Blogger. All Featured Bloggers will have their posts pinned to Rhonda’s Sunday’s Best Pinterest Board and Kim M. pins the weekly featured bloggers to her Sunday’s Best Pinterest Board too!
The Reader’s Choice post(s) will be determined by the post(s) with the most clicks. We will be adding the winner to our Sunday’s Best Linkup featured bloggers.

All posts linking to Sunday’s Best Linkup will be promoted on Twitter. In addition to the Post With the Most Clicks, a post for our monthly themes will be selected and featured each week as well.

If you are interested in becoming a Sunday’s Best Linkup host, please contact me for details at rhonda@mother2motherblog.com or email one of our other hosts.

Your Sunday’s Best Linkup Hosts Are:

Sunday's Best Linkup

 

Rhonda at Mother 2 Mother Brittany at A Mama Tale Kim at Life in a House of Testosterone

Here are the rules, please connect with us on social media before you leave or subscribe to/follow our blogs:

Mother 2 Mother: Please like Rhonda’s Facebook Page, follow her on Twitter;, Google+, Pinterest, BlogLovin, or subscribe/join her blog on the right sidebar before you leave.

Kim from Life In A House: Please like Kim’s Facebook Page, follow her on Twitter;, Google+;, Pinterest;, Bloglovin;, or Instagram; before you leave.

Brittany from A Mama’s Tale: Please like Brittany’s Facebook Page, follow her on Twitter, or Pinterest before you leave.

Snag a Button!

Last, please help us grow by placing our button on your sidebar. Please let your readers and followers know by placing the Featured Blogger banner on your site.

Sundays Best Linkup Sundays Best Featured Blogger

 

Your readers may want to join the party too! For those who have a Link Party list/directory, please add us. We appreciate your help in promoting the linkup with Re-tweets and shares. Now, let’s party!


Rhonda selected Fireplace Before and After from Fair Meadow Place  

 

 

DIY Ideas

 

 

Kim selected Smoked Salmon ad Lobster Bisque  from All That’s Jas 

 

recipes

Brittany selected Gingerbread Snowflakes  from Burlap and Blue  

 

Christmas cookie ideas


The Post with the Most Clicks


5 Festive and Delicious Holiday Dog Treat Ideas
from Mother 2 Mother 

 holiday dog treat ideas

and

Our Favorite Theme Post(s) – Merry Christmas to You

Stuffed Santa  from Two Chicks and a Mom  

 

Christmas crafts

 

 

and

 

DIY Wine Cork Snowman   from Janine Huldie   

 

 

Christmas crafts

and
Best Way to Store Your Christmas Cards  by Foxy’s Domestic Side 
  Christmas organization
and
2017 Christmas Tour  from The Dedicated House 
 Christmas Decor Ideas
Congratulations to our featured bloggers! All of the posts were great, and we deeply appreciate each of you participating on Sunday’s Best Linkup. We have so many great posts that it gets difficult to choose a featured blogger. Finally, your hosts would like to invite all of you back to link up your post(s) again; you could be selected next week! While you’re here, take a minute to visit these great blogs. It’s a great way to meet and connect with new bloggers. Be sure to PIN or share any posts that you like, we all appreciate a little love and be sure to connect with others on social media!

 

 


Family Travel Tips: Surviving Your First Trip with Kids

Today, we have travel tips on traveling with kids.  If you are an experienced traveler, there’s no reason you shouldn’t continue traveling just because you have a family now.  However, many couples just stop traveling when their children arrive. They settle down and eliminate family vacations abroad until the kids are older and a little more self-sufficient.  So, lets get started so you can start planning your next vacation with your kids. 

 

 

 

family travel tips

 

Here are a few tips on traveling with kids:

 

Traveling with young children can be amazing. They look at the world with total wonder and explore without fear or prejudice. They’ve no idea about what they might find.  Furthermore, everything is new and exciting.  It can completely change the experience and the way you see the world.

So, having children should not stop you from getting out there and exploring the world. With careful planning and preparation, traveling can be even better once you’ve had kids.  The key is planning.

 

 

travel tips

 

Think About Passports Early

If you traveled with your own parents as a kid, you probably remember not needing a passport.  Or, being included on your mom or dad’s passport until you were 16.  Unfortunately, this option is no longer allowed.  All children now, even babies, most have their own passport.

Family travel tips should include Applying for your children’s passport. The process is like applying for a first adult passport. The exception is that you complete and sign the application for them.  Most importantly, it can take up to 3 months for an application to be processed.  So, start your child’s passport application as soon as you can.

 

Go Lightweight

At home, it’s relatively easy to use a large stroller. They fit in modern cars easily, and most people have no issue navigating their way around with them.  However, when you travel abroad they are really not convenient.  Think about the difficulty getting one on and off a plane or transporting it to the hotel or resort once you arrive.  A lightweight stroller or a baby carrier make an excellent alternative. Both would be ideal, as some tourist attractions and local sites may have no accessibility for a stroller.

You may also want to consider a lightweight travel high chair as you never know what will be available in local restaurants, hotels or resorts while you are away.

 

Pack Home Comforts

Many parents assume they need to pack lots of their kid’s toys to keep them entertained. This isn’t usually the case. Young children will play with whatever is available.  They don’t need their favorite toys to keep them amused; they’ll make the most of what they find.

However, a few comforts such as one of their favorite toys, blanket or a plush will help them settle and feel safe. This could make your life a lot easier.

 

traveling with kids

 

Sun Protection

Babies and young children have sensitive skin. They can burn much faster than adults and find themselves in a lot more pain when they do. Fortunately, there are some great ways to protect them. Sunglasses on an elastic strap, can help to protect their eyes.  Protective body covering with UV protection can help protect them in the ocean.  A wide-brimmed hat can help prevent both sunburn.  Of course, a high SPF sunscreen is always advisable.  This is good advice when it doesn’t feel that hot.

 

Packing Essentials

Most things you could need are available all over the world.  So, don’t worry if you forget something.  But, it is a good idea to take your children’s prescriptions or pain reliever, sunscreen, bath products, and any medications you and your children take regularly.

 

Keep in Touch

Your entire family will like to share in your child’s firsts. Take lots of photos, video chat with home and Send Postcards Online to show everyone what you are up to.

 

Eat Everything

The last concern for family travel tips is to consider food allergies.  If there are none, it’s a good idea to introduce them to as many different foods as you can. This can help to boost their immunity, help their digestion and give them a new experience. Many parents worry a lot about what their children will be able to eat. But, exposing them to different food early in life could ensure they’re not fussy eaters later on.

 

 

Wedding Tips for the Flower Girl or Ring Bearer

Wedding Tips Making sure your flower girl or ring bearer walks down the aisle without incident can be a major undertaking. In many instances the short trip can end with a tantrum or tears.  So, how do you avoid drama with your flower girl or ring bearer?   The following are wedding tips on how to make your child shine when in the spotlight.

Strengthen the Relationship

You can do your best to teach your child good manners.  However, whether it’s due to a lack of sleep, irregular schedule or hunger, toddlers are going to have bad moments.  So, you will need to prepare your child for various situations.  Especially, if they have been asked to participate in a wedding as a flower girl or ring bearer.  They may be fearful, especially if the couple are not regulars to your home.  So, one of our wedding tips is to spend as much time with the bride and groom as you can.  Be sure to include your child so they can feel comfortable with them too.

Bribe Them

Although you don’t want to start a pattern of bribing your child, it could work when coaxing them down the aisle.  The bride and groom typically choose great groomsmen gifts to show their appreciation to the wedding party. Gifts can include cufflinks, engraved wallets and beer mugs. Also, personalized necklaces, bracelets, tote bags and wine openers are special mementos for the female attendants.  A plush toy, doll or race car can be a great incentive for coaxing toddlers down the isle.

Go Above and Beyond

Young children are less likely to misbehave when in a formal setting.  Go above and beyond the call of duty to create a fun environment for them.  If your male child loves cars, let him carry a toy sports car as he makes his way down the aisle. If your little lady loves horses, get her a mini stuffed pony.  You can place it in the flower basket and cover it with the flowers.  She can uncover it as she making her way down the aisle.

Practice Makes Perfect

Children are anything but perfect. But, if you want them to show less fear and anxiety give them time to become familiar with a setting.  Furthermore, show them a video where they will see what their duties entail. Let them become accustomed to people watching them. Guide them through the steps of walking down aisle.  Also, let them practice tossing petals or carrying the ring bearers pillow. It can take a number of sessions for your child to master this important job.  Patience is important.

Let Them Have a Voice in What They Wear

You want your children to be comfortable with their wedding attire.  Although you may want them dressed somewhat formally, let them have a voice in what they are wearing.  Pick out a few outfits that meet with the approval of the bride and groom.  Let them choose what they would like to wear.  Also, if you’re planning on having them at the reception for a period of time, pick out comfy clothes they can change into.

Stay on Schedule

Children do best when sticking to a schedule. If the bride and groom are planning to take photos hours before the actual wedding, they shouldn’t expect your child to sit through this long process.  If they don’t have children, they need to be reminded that kids get tired easily.  It may be best to take pictures immediately after the wedding ceremony. If there is time between the wedding and reception, put your child down for a nap.  Hopefully, they’ll be refreshed and ready for the next event.

Meet Your Child Down the Aisle

One of our biggest wedding tips is to not expect your little one to walk down the aisle without a hitch.  Have a member of the wedding party meet your child down the aisle. If they see a familiar face, they may be happy to glide their way down the isle.  However,  an adult should be ready to remove them in case they get unruly during the ceremony.

Even if you do everything right to try and keep your youngsters happy, children are unpredictable.  And, they may still experience a meltdown.  However, by using the wedding tips above you have a greater chance of the child surviving the ceremony without too much negativity.

 

30 Holiday Gift Ideas for College Students

The holidays are the most wonderful time of the year.  It’s the time of year that families gather for fellowship and great food.  This includes your child who’s away at college.  You’re excited that you will be able to spend time with your entire family.  So far, everyone has given you their Christmas wish list.  Except the college student.  Unfortunately, thinking about anything except finals is more than their brain can handle.  So, today I’m offering parenting tips on gift ideas for college students.

 

 

gift ideas for college students

 

Most of the items I sent to my own daughter throughout her four years of higher education.  All were appreciated:

 

  1. Gift/Gas Cards – All college students can use a gas and a special gift.  So, gift cards make a perfect gift.
  2. Snack Items/Cookies/Drinks – Next, chips, cookies, energy drinks and bars are always welcome.
  3. Instant Soup/Cans of Tuna/Chicken – Cans of tuna and chicken are great ways for protein.   Instant soups are perfect for a quick meal on a cold day too.
  4. Plates/Forks/Spoons/Bowls/Microwavable Dishes – These items will come in handy when ordering pizza, making sandwiches or eating salads in the dorm room.
  5. Paper Towels/Napkins – No matter where they are, there will be spills.  College student or not, they still need to wipe their mouth and hands.
  6. Keurig/Coffee/Coffee Mug/Tea/Honey – My daughter wasn’t a coffee drinker, but she loves honey and tea. The Keurig was perfect for making individual cups.
  7. Highlighters/Mechanical Pens/Notebooks/Folders – These items come in handy.  Eventually, highlighters dry up or get lost.  Also, folders bend and notebooks get used. Each semester brings a new need.
  8. Wrinkle Releaser/Febreze – Wrinkle releaser is perfect for those mornings when you don’t have time to iron.  Your college student will appreciate both.  Especially, Febreze on those days when they want to wear those jeans one more day before washing them.
  9. Tooth Paste/Floss/Waterpik/Mouth Wash – Taking care of your teeth is important at home and school.
  10. Shampoo/Conditioner/Flat Iron/Curling Iron/Detangle Comb – Students still like to look good.
  11. Body Lotion/Razors/Shaving Cream – Keeping the skin hydrated and smooth is still important.
  12. Loofah/Spa Items/Body Wash – To a college student, these are luxury items.  So, be generous.
  13. Bath Tissue/Air Fresher/Disinfectant – Next, having individual items can be heaven sent.  There’s no arguments about who used the last roll or emptied the last can of spray.
  14. Printer Cartridges/Compressed Air to Clean Keyboard – When your taking care of business, printer cartridges and computer cleaning products are always needed.
  15. First Aid Kit – Unfortunately, accidents happen.  It could be a cut, scrape, or burn.  Being prepared is important.
  16. Rolls of Quarters/Detergent/Dryer Sheets/Laundry Basket – Doing laundry doesn’t end because you’re in college.  Washer and dryers take quarters.  And, clothes can’t be cleaned with detergent and dryer sheets.
  17. Bed Sheets/Comforter/Pillows – Having a nice, clean bed is essential in getting a good night’s sleep.  This applies to dorms or apartments as well as home.  So, fresh sheets, a plum comforter, and heathy pillows are essential.
  18. Towels/Washcloths –  Towels and washcloths are essential items for a college student.
  19. Picture Frames and Photo Albums –  Making memories in college is important. I remember my daughter wanting special frames to house her dance team photos.  Additionally, specials nights out with friends, and with the love of life who is now her husband.
  20. Subscription to Netflix, Hulu etc. –  Cable in college is a luxury.  However, subscriptions to Netflix or Hulu is a perfect gift.
  21. Footbath/Nail Polish/File/Clippers/Manicure Items – I remember my daughter and her roommates giving each other manicures and pedicures.  They enjoyed painting each other nails and experimenting with makeup.
  22. Shower Caddy/Shower Cap –  Holiday gift ideas for college students should include shower storage items. A means to store shampoo, conditioner and body wash is important.
  23. Diffuser/Oils –  I replaced burning candles with essential oils, and I love them.  They’re great for relaxing, keeping calm and staying centered.
  24. Duct Tape/Screw Driver/Pliers/Wrench –  Although we may not want to think about things coming apart, they do.  Throw in some nails, picture hangers and screws too.  These are holiday gift ideas for college students that they won’t think of.
  25. Charging Station –  Charging Stations are great for charging a phone, tablet, Kindle or other items in one place.
  26. Fire Stick/Smart TV/Printing/Media Streaming Device –  All are great for the college student on a budget.
  27. Bed Pillow  – Great for Support while watching TV or Studying.
  28. Storage Crates – Great for  storing movies, papers or using as a table.
  29. Ironing Board/Iron – Purchasing an ironing board that can be used on a bed or table is a good idea.
  30. DSR Camera – Capturing memories throughout college years is important.  It only happens once, so encourage your son or daughter to capture as many memories as possible.

Finally, we hope you found our list of holiday gift ideas for college students helpful. Pick a few items from the list, and I guarantee your college student will be happy.  These items make great care packages throughout the year too. You may also like How to Decorate a Dorm Room On a Budget.

 

 

Sunday’s Best Linkup – #154

Christmas decor ideas

 

Welcome to Week 154 of Mother 2 Mother Sunday’s Best Linkup. Christmas is around the corner. We’re continuing our Merry Christmas to You theme this week. We’re looking for Christmas crafts, recipes, decorating idea, mantel displays and more. It’s Christmas related, we’re looking for it.

We also welcome other recipes, crafts, DIY, home makeover, gardening tips, SEO & blogging information, sewing projects, patio and deck makeovers, front porch makeover ideas, organization tips, ideas for backyard hot dog roasts, and more. Blow the dust off your old posts and share those on our linkup too. They’re are great for inspiration.
Anything goes, as long as it’s family friendly and you may linkup as many posts as you would like. Be sure to tell your friends, they will want to join the party too.

Each week your hosts will select their favorite post and it will be featured the following week. An image from your post will be used on our linkup post the following week with a link back to your blog. Be sure to check back to see if you’re a Sunday’s Best Featured Blogger. All Featured Bloggers will have their posts pinned to Rhonda’s Sunday’s Best Pinterest Board and Kim M. pins the weekly featured bloggers to her Sunday’s Best Pinterest Board too!
The Reader’s Choice post(s) will be determined by the post(s) with the most clicks. We will be adding the winner to our Sunday’s Best Linkup featured bloggers.

All posts linking to Sunday’s Best Linkup will be promoted on Twitter. In addition to the Post With the Most Clicks, a post for our monthly themes will be selected and featured each week as well.

If you are interested in becoming a Sunday’s Best Linkup host, please contact me for details at rhonda@mother2motherblog.com or email one of our other hosts.

Your Sunday’s Best Linkup Hosts Are:

Sunday's Best Linkup

 

Rhonda at Mother 2 Mother Brittany at A Mama Tale Kim at Life in a House of Testosterone

Here are the rules, please connect with us on social media before you leave or subscribe to/follow our blogs:

Mother 2 Mother: Please like Rhonda’s Facebook Page, follow her on Twitter;, Google+, Pinterest, BlogLovin, or subscribe/join her blog on the right sidebar before you leave.

Kim from Life In A House: Please like Kim’s Facebook Page, follow her on Twitter;, Google+;, Pinterest;, Bloglovin;, or Instagram; before you leave.

Brittany from A Mama’s Tale: Please like Brittany’s Facebook Page, follow her on Twitter, or Pinterest before you leave.

Snag a Button!

Last, please help us grow by placing our button on your sidebar. Please let your readers and followers know by placing the Featured Blogger banner on your site.

Sundays Best Linkup Sundays Best Featured Blogger

 

Your readers may want to join the party too! For those who have a Link Party list/directory, please add us. We appreciate your help in promoting the linkup with Re-tweets and shares. Now, let’s party!


Rhonda selected Ho Ho Holiday Pancakes from Blowing Away Outwest  

Christmas food ideas

 

 

Kim selected Traditional Red Ornaments and Plaid Ribbon from Intelligent Domestications

 

Christmas Decorating Ideas

Brittany selected 15 Festive Christmas Cookie Ideas  from Mother 2 Mother  

 

Christmas Cookie Ideas

 


The Post with the Most Clicks


12 Days of Holiday Cocktails and Mocktails from Play Dates to Party Planning

 Holiday Cocktails

and

Our Favorite Theme Post(s) – Merry Christmas to You

Christmas Mickey Mouse Pretzels from Janine Huldie  

Disney Christmas Treats

and

Christmas Slime from All Crafty Things 

Christmas Craft Ideas

and
Christmas Hat and Booties by Lilia Craft Party
Handmade Christmas Gift Ideas
and
Rustic Inspired Plaid Tablescape from The Sweet Sensation
Tablescape decorating ideas
Congratulations to our featured bloggers! All of the posts were great, and we deeply appreciate each of you participating on Sunday’s Best Linkup. We have so many great posts that it gets difficult to choose a featured blogger. Finally, your hosts would like to invite all of you back to link up your post(s) again; you could be selected next week! While you’re here, take a minute to visit these great blogs. It’s a great way to meet and connect with new bloggers. Be sure to PIN or share any posts that you like, we all appreciate a little love and be sure to connect with others on social media!

 

 


How to Decorate a Dorm Room On a Budget

 

how to decorate a dorm room

 

Student life is anything but easy.  Making new friends, checking things off your bucket list and living like there’s no tomorrow.  College life brings all this and much more.  However, it also brings financial difficulties. You are expected to survive on the allowance that you get from home.  As a result, you cannot afford everything that you desire.

We have several solutions when it comes to creating a comfortable living space.  So, it is not essential for you to ask for more money than you already get.  What matters is how you manage the resources that you currently have. You can adopt several money-saving techniques to ensure that your funds do not run dry.

One of the easiest ways to save money is to look for cheap student accommodations. Instead of living in an apartments, you could choose to live in homestays or shared dorms.  You would be able to split the rent and if lucky, even cover your meals in the rent amount.

Another important tip is to look for DIYs instead of purchasing everything retail.  For instance, instead of purchasing retail explore DIY options.  Check out our tips on how to decorate a dorm room on a budget:

1.     Thrift shopping

Scan through thrift shops or flea markets for out of the box household items like antique candle holders, scented dried flowers, hand carved bowls and even rugs. These items will not only be unique but will also come at a very reasonable price as compared to regular showrooms.

 

Thrift Store Ideas

Source

2.     Use Old Records

Get hold of some junky, old records from the flea markets and hang them on the wall. You could hang them all in a single line or create patterns. You could also add an extra edge to them by adding color or painting them. If you are a music lover looking to add a vintage touch to your room, this could be an excellent idea.

3.     Use Photo Collages

The idea of decorating your dorm room with photo collages can never go wrong. It adds a personal touch to your room, and helps you feel connected with your loved ones. Get a few pictures printed and simply tape them to your walls to create a collage.  Also, if you want to be more creative, use lights to create your own little space of happy memories.  You could even get personalized messages from friends and stick them adjacent to their respective photographs. Just looking at these pictures could help you de-stress after a long day at school.

4.     Hang a Tapestry

A tapestry prevents your room from looking dull as it occupies a lot of space. It often becomes the center of attraction. You could look for cheap options in a thrift shop or even create your own tapestry. So, what are you waiting for? Get your creative hat on and create a beautiful piece to hang in your room.

5.     Use Wrapping Paper

How to decorate a dorm room with wrapping paper you wonder?  First, know that wrapping paper is multipurpose. Choose to cover one of the walls of your room with wrapping paper to spice it up a little.  You could even create decorative items using wrapping paper. Use wrapping sheets to create photo-frames, DIY wall décor and lots more.

6.     Hang Maps

Maps can be bought from any stationery shop at extremely affordable prices.  When you’re thinking about how to decorate a dorm room, think about using maps.  They can help in decorating your room with minimum effort. Especially if you are a traveler or a geography-enthusiast, this idea should work wonderfully well for you. Just choose one wall in your dorm room to paste maps of different parts of the world on. You may use dart pins to point out places to visit on your bucket list. You may even hang pictures from trips made to places previously to show how much you have already travelled. Check out these cool DIY Map décor ideas.

7.     Canopy Bed

If you wish to add a majestic feel to your dorm room, a canopy bed can really up the game for you. Do not worry; we do not expect you to do away with your old bed for this. You could make a canopy for your old bed. We’ll tell you how. Go to a place that sells sheer fabric, you could choose the pattern as per your liking. Make sure it is wide enough to wrap around the perimeter of the bed. Stick the fabric to the ceiling such that it hangs down beautifully into a half canopy. You could even use 4 hooks and tie a string to connect them all. Then add the fabric to all four corners and Voila! You’re set. If you are in the mood to experiment even more, add fairy lights to create a magical appeal.

8.     Use Bright Bedding

One thing that can truly add color and flavor to your dorm room is a bright piece of bedding. Get your hands on unique yet affordable pillow cases. Use bed sheets that are vibrant and go well with the walls of your room. If you have a roommate, you could coordinate the beddings so as to help the dorm look bright and cheerful.

Finally, we hope that you find our tips on how to decorate a dorm room helpful.  Have searching for thrift ideas and be creative.

Author Bio:  Bella Williams

As an academic researcher & private tutor, Bella guides the new age professionals and students with their career. A graduate from Monash University, Bella organizes free coaching workshops and promotes free sharing of knowledge. You can also find her on LinkedIn. https://iambaker.net/sugar-cookie-christmas-wreath/

3 Ideas To Achieve The Perfect Alternative To Christmas Dinner

 

alternative christmas ideas

 

Turkey and ham are great, but every year you yearn for something different.  However, every year you succumb to tradition.  It’s not that you don’t enjoy having the family around the table.  Who doesn’t love feasting on turkey, roasted potatoes, rich red wine gravy and bejeweled Christmas pudding.  But, you’re constantly thinking how it might be nice to mix it up once in a while.  There are plenty of ways in which you can still enjoy an alternative menu on Christmas Day.  Most importantly, you’ll be making new edible traditions for the family in the process.

First, you need to decide what sort of alternative cuisine you would enjoy.  Also, if there are any dietary requirements in your family make sure they are accounted for.  There’s no point serving chestnuts roasted with paprika and chili if your grandma is allergic to nuts. Take your time and explore all your options.

 

Alternative Christmas Dinner Ideas

Image by

 

Think Outside The Box

You may wish to forgo your oven and explore an entirely different method of cooking Christmas dinner this season.  Furthermore, you might like the idea of getting a smoker like the one available at BillyOh Barbecues.  You can cure and smoke your own salmon and herring.  Furthermore, it will save you a trip to the grocery store for a side of Gravlax or Hot Smoked Rainbow Trout.  You could take the barbeque theme even further, throw a few Ribeyes and Chops on the grill.  By embracing  different Christmas cuisines like a festive barbecue, you’ll ensure dinner on Christmas Day will be one to remember.

Themes

You may want to encapsulate a theme for your Christmas party.  Perhaps a Hawaiian themed party or a festive winter theme.  You can include a buffet or ‘bring a dish’ style dinner party.  Whatever theme you choose, you will want the food to be delicious.  So, choose wisely and embrace your ideas wholeheartedly.  Additionally, give your family plenty of notice.  They’ll enjoy experiencing something new over the holidays, and will love that you are hosting the party.

Image by

 

Your Experience

Perhaps it is the environment that needs to be a little different this year.  You could take a trip and volunteer for Christmas.  If travel is not an option, volunteer with a local charity.  An alternative to hosting Christmas dinner at home is to dish out a traditional dinner at the local homeless shelter.  You could also welcome a lonely senior into your home for Christmas lunch. You may find that doing a good deed on December 25th is all you need to feel like you’re making a difference.  By giving back to the local community over the holidays, you’ll be the epitome of showing goodwill to all men.

So, Christmas is a time of celebration, giving thanks and enjoying quality time with family and friends.  There’s no better way to share in the joy of the holiday season than whipping up Christmas dinner or treats in the kitchen for those around you to enjoy.

 

13 Fun and Frugal Christmas Gift Wrap Ideas

Tired of the same boring gift wrap in stores?  Today, I’m sharing fun and frugal gift wrap ideas.  We have the solution, you just have to choose what you love. We’re sure you can find a few Christmas gift wrap ideas from our suggestions below. Included are a Santa theme, snowman, dried fruits, race car and more. So, grab a cup of coffee or a glass of wine or eggnog and check them out!

 

 

Christmas Gift Wrapping Ideas

 

 

 

Check out our Christmas Gift Wrap Ideas:

 

 

Christmas Gift Wrap Ideas

 

 

These adorable Santa inspired gift bags and gift boxes say that and more.  Unfortunately, there were no instruction on how to create these.  But, don’t be intimidated.  Get creative!  Plain red wrapping paper and gift bags, faux fur, buttons  and labels.  Hit the craft stores like Michaels and Hobby Lobby.  You can find the accessories there.

 

 

How fun is this frosty the snowman siting by the tree waiting to be opened.   It’s simple, use white craft paper, black and orange construction paper for the buttons and nose. Find a scarf in your closet or the kid’s and you’ll be admiring this guy in no time.

 

Christmas gift wrap idea

A Christmas gift wrapped in Christmas lights.   What sets this gift wrap apart from the others is the lights made by little ones finger prints.  Also, check out my Kindergarten/First Grade Christmas Lights Crafts.  You’ll need brown Craft Paper, a black marker and washable craft paint.  Make it a family project.

 

 

I love this idea.  Instead of using gift tags, use one of your favorite photos of the gift recipients.  Brown Craft Paper, twine/string and a great photo is all that is needed.

 

Word Search gift wrap.  I love word search puzzles.  I even have my grandson hooked on them.  This idea is perfect for small gift boxes.  You create the word search puzzle and than print it on 12 by 12 paper.  Find the words that you want to highlight and than wrap your gift.  Merry Christmas baby!

 

 

 

 

Brown Craft Paper seems to be the way to go with gift wrap.  It’s inexpensive and can go a long way when wrapping gifts.  Personalize it with stenciled names on the gifts and a ribbon.  You can find stencils here.  Unfortunately, I was unable to find the original post on this idea.  The idea was picked up on Pinterest.

 

Christmas gift wrap ideas

 

 

I love to stencil.  So, I thought stenciling a Christmas design on brown Craft Paper would be fun.  It adds a perfection touch to brown background.  Many craft stores have Christmas stencils, brushes/sponges and paint.  Get creative.  You can do the ornaments as shown, reindeer, or whatever suits you.  Check these Christmas stencils too. However, I would stay with the white paint.  It looks amazing on the craft paper.  You can find the paint and stencil brushes at Michaels or other craft stores.

 

 

A Newspaper Christmas on gift wrapped in brown Craft Paper or any plain colored wrapping paper will work.  Simple, but makes a statement.  If you’re not the greatest artist, purchase stars from your local craft store.  Another idea, print The Night Before Christmas poem and make the tree from it.

 

 

Christmas gift wrap ideas

 

I love recycling old things.  Wrapping a gift in newspaper is something that I would do.  Somewhere doing my browsing a blogger suggested that if you have a sports fan use the sports section.  There’s the comics, style, real estate and the ideas go on.  Finish it with a nice bow.

 

 

Christmas Gift Wrap Ideas

 

Also, Polka dot gift wrap is what’s happening here.  Brown Craft Paper, white ink pad and pencil with a clean eraser.  Finish the gift with a bow.  You can also do a Let it Snow theme.  Don’t cover the gift entire with the dots.  I would place them a various degrees to make it look their the dots are falling.

 

Christmas Gift Wrap Ideas

 

 

Next, I thought this gift wrap was a perfect idea for the race car lover.  My grandson loves Hot Wheels and still does.  He’s 10. Wrap the gift with brown gift wrap, use black construction paper for the track and a white paint pen for the road markings.  The Dollar Tree, Dollar General and/or Big Lots has a nice selection of Hot Wheels that won’t break the bank.  So, get creative!

 

Furthermore, using dried fruits on gift wrapped boxes is a great idea.  This blogger used dried oranges, but apple slices would work too.  Check out my post on drying orange slices here.  You can add cinnamon sticks and/or miniature pinecones.  Most importantly, a glue gun should be your friend for this project.  You will want your fruit and other accessories to stay on the gift.

 

Christmas Gift Wrap Ideas

 

Last, this is one of my favorite gift wraps.  Wrapping gifts in sheet music.  Get creative, this blogger used a full sheet of music to wrap gifts as well as strips of the music sheet.  Furthermore, google free sheet music or check your local music store for a deal. Finish it with a bow, string or greenery from your local Dollar Store.

So, we hope that you found a few Christmas gift wrap ideas that have inspired you.  You may also like 15 Festive Christmas Cookie Ideas.

Sunday’s Best Linkup – #153

Christmas decor ideas

 

Welcome to Week 153 of Mother 2 Mother Sunday’s Best Linkup. Christmas is around the corner.  We’re continuing our Merry Christmas to You theme this week. We’re looking for Christmas crafts, recipes, decorating idea, mantel displays and more. It’s Christmas related, we’re looking for it.

We also welcome other recipes, crafts, DIY, home makeover, gardening tips, SEO & blogging information, sewing projects, patio and deck makeovers, front porch makeover ideas, organization tips, ideas for backyard hot dog roasts, and more. Blow the dust off your old posts and share those on our linkup too. They’re are great for inspiration.
Anything goes, as long as it’s family friendly and you may linkup as many posts as you would like. Be sure to tell your friends, they will want to join the party too.

Each week your hosts will select their favorite post and it will be featured the following week. An image from your post will be used on our linkup post the following week with a link back to your blog. Be sure to check back to see if you’re a Sunday’s Best Featured Blogger. All Featured Bloggers will have their posts pinned to Rhonda’s Sunday’s Best Pinterest Board and Kim M. pins the weekly featured bloggers to her Sunday’s Best Pinterest Board too!
The Reader’s Choice post(s) will be determined by the post(s) with the most clicks. We will be adding the winner to our Sunday’s Best Linkup featured bloggers.

All posts linking to Sunday’s Best Linkup will be promoted on Twitter. In addition to the Post With the Most Clicks, a post for our monthly themes will be selected and featured each week as well.

If you are interested in becoming a Sunday’s Best Linkup host, please contact me for details at rhonda@mother2motherblog.com or email one of our other hosts.

Your Sunday’s Best Linkup Hosts Are:

Sunday's Best Linkup

 

Rhonda at Mother 2 Mother Brittany at A Mama Tale Kim at Life in a House of Testosterone

Here are the rules, please connect with us on social media before you leave or subscribe to/follow our blogs:

Mother 2 Mother: Please like Rhonda’s Facebook Page, follow her on Twitter;, Google+, Pinterest, BlogLovin, or subscribe/join her blog on the right sidebar before you leave.

Kim from Life In A House: Please like Kim’s Facebook Page, follow her on Twitter;, Google+;, Pinterest;, Bloglovin;, or Instagram; before you leave.

Brittany from A Mama’s Tale: Please like Brittany’s Facebook Page, follow her on Twitter, or Pinterest before you leave.

Snag a Button!

Last, please help us grow by placing our button on your sidebar. Please let your readers and followers know by placing the Featured Blogger banner on your site.

Sundays Best Linkup Sundays Best Featured Blogger

 

Your readers may want to join the party too! For those who have a Link Party list/directory, please add us. We appreciate your help in promoting the linkup with Re-tweets and shares. Now, let’s party!


Rhonda selected Kitchen Reveal  from Dedicated House  

 

Kitchen Makeovers

 

Kim selected How to Relieve Holiday Stress  from The Dedicated House 

 

Tips for a stress free Christmas

 

Brittany selected 15 Fun Ideas for Charlotte’s Web from Not In Jersey 

 

 

Kids craft ideas


The Post with the Most Clicks


White Chocolate Peppermint Blondies from Play Dates to Party Planning  

 Christmas Cookie recipes

and

Our Favorite Theme Post(s) – Merry Christmas to You

Thrift Store Find Makeover from Across the Blvd.

 

Christmas Decor Ideas

 

Congratulations to our featured bloggers! All of the posts were great, and we deeply appreciate each of you participating on Sunday’s Best Linkup. We have so many great posts that it gets difficult to choose a featured blogger. Finally, your hosts would like to invite all of you back to link up your post(s) again; you could be selected next week! While you’re here, take a minute to visit these great blogs. It’s a great way to meet and connect with new bloggers. Be sure to PIN or share any posts that you like, we all appreciate a little love and be sure to connect with others on social media!