Tips for Getting Over Christmas Blues

January 8, 2021 by Leave a Comment

Today, I’m sharing parenting tips on getting over Christmas Blues after the holidays.  Those post Christmas blues can be a nasty.  It seems that there is nothing major to look forward to now. Sadly, the world can be pretty bleak at Christmas.  The Coronavirus is still taking its toll, even though vaccines have started to roll out across the world. 

But, there are ways you can keep you and your family happy. Winter can be a wonderful season.  It’s the perfect time to work on goals, get caught up on reading, pull out those crafts you’ve been wanting to work on and more.  Nothing sounds exciting, check out these suggestions. 

 

 

getting over Christmas blues

 

Getting Over Christmas Blues Tips:

 

Try A New Health Kick

Getting into a new health regime or trying out a new diet can be a chore.  But, if you make it fun everyone can enjoy it. Think about taking bike rides with the family. Indulge in less fast food , and use new recipes that can be cooked at home.

It’s a great way to get everyone in the family healthy.  If a child’s diet has been poor over an extended period of time, they may end up having to see pediatricians.  So, make it a family affair. There are loads of workout videos on YouTube.  If your family room is large enough, gather once a day to do a workout as a family. It could be difficult getting the family motivated initially, but once your family gets over the hump they’ll thank you.  

 

getting over Christmas blues

 

 

 

Focus On A Side Hustle

Next, get a side hustle.  A little extra money can go a long way. But, where do you start? There’s so many things you can do to earn a little side cash. You can sell products on Amazon, or think about offering your intellect as a tutor for children.  If you like crafts, think about monetizing them and sell them on sites like Etsy. Speak two languages? Maybe you can offer translation or transcription services. You might be sat there, thinking that you have nothing to offer, but odds on your do! You just have to take the time and really think about it. The money you make can be used to make this bleak part of the year a little better and happier for your family and yourself. 

 

Consider A New Purchase

People don’t usually go out and splurge in January because most people don’t have much cash after Christmas. But, the recently launched and hugely successful PS5 would be a great choice for the family.  Especially. if you weren’t lucky enough to get one for Christmas. The kids will be happy and it will make this year a bit more bearable. They’re hard to find, so a Nintendo Switch or Xbox series might be just as great. Your new purchase doesn’t have to be a games console either. Think about new bikes for the family.  They can be ties into your New Year health kick. 

 

 

how to get over Christmas blues

 

 

 

Try To Do More Together

Last, Christmas is all about family. So, try to extend those vibes into the winter months. You can have family movie night once or twice a week.  Or, play board games as a family.  A brisk walk around the neighbor to explore new places and see new sights can make new adventures exciting.

 

Finally, the goal is simply to keep the happiness level up in your home.  Get creative, and make sure it’s activities everyone can participate in.  

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Steps for Creating a Happy Family

November 22, 2020 by 2 Comments

Today, I’m sharing parenting tips on creating a happy family.  Parenting can be an uphill task at times. Everybody seems to be consumed by technology, specifically social media.  Sadly, they fail to find time for their loved ones. Additionally, many adults and children are more depressed than ever. However, you can still create a happy family in the modern world using these simple tips.

 

creating a happy family

 

 

Creating a Happy Family:

 

Live, laugh, love

The best way to create a happy family is to find ways to reconnect with each other.  Unfortunately, we forget to share love with people we call family.  We don’t have fun times together.  But, there’s a remedy.  For example, take a family vacation to enjoy.  It is essential to create memories, share some family history and have a good time with each other.

 

Communicate

Communication is very crucial during both good and challenging times. Many people, especially children, find it hard to express their feelings. Show your children that you are willing to listen.  It will impact their happiness tremendously.  Additionally, good communication will help family members see value in the family unit. 

 

Try to understand each other

In any family, mutual understanding is a key component of happiness. Children are likely to learn from adults.  Be an example.  If your children see that you are positive and happy, they will take cues from you.  As a result, your family will grow, practice positivity, good behavior, and spread happiness wherever they go. 

 

Contribute to the community together

Teamwork is essential if you are trying to reconnect and create a happy family. Consider sharing Bible study resources and volunteering for community work as a family.  These two steps will reinforce family solidarity.

 

 

creating a happy family

 

 

 

Pray as a family

As far as the vital doctrines of religion go, the family is often the highest unit. Participating in family prayer solidifies that your faith in important.  Also, remember to pray for each other’s happiness and fulfillment of their needs.

 

Forgive each other

Everyone makes mistakes in life. Some of this can create some rifts in the family. However, you should never let mistakes break the family unit. First, try to acknowledge that mistakes happen and forgive each other. If the mistake happens over and over again, try to get help from a counselor. Building confidence and trust between family members and forgiving small faults has a significant impact on family happiness.  Teach your children about forgiveness and other important traits.  Your children will learn valuable life lessons and will love and respect your generosity. Most importantly, they will carry that foundation into adulthood. 

 

Develop family traditions

Family traditions are among the things that keep you united and happy as a family. Traditions should not be reserved for holidays only. Instead, create daily or weekly habits such as family dinners or dining out.

So, you can make Saturdays your family game night.  Creating family traditions helps to connect you with your family and makes everyone happy.

 

Final thoughts

Staying positive is the best way to stay happy. When it comes to a family setting, making everyone happy depends on how you connect with each other. Make sure that your children understand essential life and family values.  And,  give your children a religious foundation. It will help reconnect them with God and other people as well.

 

 

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Fun Winter Activities for Kids

October 31, 2020 by Leave a Comment

Today, I’m sharing parenting tips on fun winter activities for kids.  The Winter season is well on its way.  Winter can leave us feeling a bit uncertain on what to do to occupy our kid’s time.  Unfortunately, family trips to the beach, playing in the park, and talking long walks are gone for now.  However, this doesn’t mean you should stop spending quality time together. It simply means you need to get a little more creative.

Doing fun activities at home can be a great idea.  Especially, if you feeling a little down because of the pandemic restrictions, a recent bereavement or experiencing the winter blues. Furthermore, if you find your children’s behavior is being affected by these factors and you aren’t sure how to help them, check out Youth Villages.

winter activities for kids

 

 

Five winter activities for kids to do at home:  

 

  • Create a home fort

There is something about creating a home fort that is always great fun. You can make this in your living room out of furniture and blankets held together with pegs. This is a great chance to get creative and have fun together as a family. It is also a gift that keeps on giving.  Once you have spent the time making your fort, your kids can enjoy playing in it! 

 

  • Have a movie night 

A movie night is a great winter activity.  Find a movie that everybody wants to watch, get some snacks,  find your favorite comforters, and enjoy the evening snuggled up watching the movie.  Get creative, share buckets of popcorn, snacks that you would find at a movie theatre, and have the kids make tickets to use at the entry to your family or living room door. 

 

  • Do some art

Art is a brilliant way to bring the whole family together and do something fun. There are so many art activities you can do, from collage and paintings, to pastels and drawing. You could go on a walk and collect different items such as pinecones or leaves to make a winter sculpture.  Or, you can draw what you can see in the garden. Another good idea is to make something such as festive decorations out of salt dough which you can then bake and hang up on your Christmas tree.

 

 

winter activities for kids

 

 

  • Play board games

The market is packed with different board games from classics like Monopoly and Connect 4 to games that you completely make up yourself.  Get creative and have fun.

 

These are just some of the top winter activities to enjoy with your family. Why not take it in turns to do something you pick? Or have a competition who can come up with the best game? Whatever you decide to do, take your time to just enjoy each other’s company and have fun!

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10 Ideas for Family Fun

April 2, 2020 by Leave a Comment

Today, I’m sharing parenting advice on ideas for family fun.  Thinking of things to do while your family is stuck in the house can be very difficult. Depending on the age of your kids, you may need to think of lots of different tasks to keep different ages happy.  As a result, I’ve put together a list of activities that will get your kids excited and ready to take on a new experience.  

 

family fun

 

Ideas for family fun: 

 

Have a Movie Day

You don’t always need to be productive.  Taking a day to be lazy and enjoy your family is a good thing.  Grab a few blankets, and a stack of movies and have a great time.  Don’t forget the snacks.  

 

Start A Book Club

Reading is a great habit to get into.  And, your kids will benefit from reading.  So, start a family book club.   You could all read different books as you relax together, or take it in turns to read passages from the same book. Have everyone take a few minutes to discuss the book that they’re read with the family.  

 

Camp Out In The Garden 

Why not camp out in the garden? This will be a memorable experience that everybody can enjoy!  You can plant flowers or vegetables.  If that doesn’t interest them, plan a few kids garden crafts.  

 

 

family fun

 

 

Decorate The Sidewalk or Driveway 

Next, grab some colored chalk and have fun decorating the sidewalk or driveway.  It’ll make the world seem a little bit brighter whenever you look outside. 

 

Show Your Appreciation

Furthermore, get the kids to draw or paint pictures for nursing home residents.  This is a way to show love for the elderly and nursing home staff.   

 

Try Tik Tok

So, this is a new platform that can be a lot of fun to use. You can learn dances as a family and post them, as well as lip sync to your favorite films and shows. Most importantly, it will kill a few hours.  Start watching videos to get inspired and then work on making your own! 

 

 

kids baking

 

 

Get Into Baking

Next, try baking bread, cookies, marshmallow squares, or just about anything you like.  Make a grocery list and take a trip to the grocery store.  Let the kids help you pick out the ingredients needed.  The kids will learn valuable cooking skills and you’ll have lots of yummy things to eat afterwards. 

 

Lighten The Mood 

Work on ways to lighten the mood if you or the kids are feeling low.  Take a look at my favorite April fools pranks and see who you can trick with them! You modify or adapt them if you need to.  It’s a great way to lift everyone’s spirit.  

 

Learn New Skills

Perhaps you could learn a new skill. You don’t need anything fancy or special equipment. Why not see if there are online classes that interest everyone.  The kids or you can learn how to draw, paint, sing, sew etc.

 

Meditation 

Additionally, you can use the time to get into the meditation habit.  Meditating will help you to remain calmer and happier as a family. Meditation is about going inward, rather than looking outward, and can help with so many different aspects of life. If you get into the habit of doing this for just 5 minutes a day, you’ll strengthen the bonds with each other and yourselves. This is another great habit your kids will benefit from. 

 

Finally, do you have any ideas you’d like to add? Leave a comment below!

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Why Use a Beach Cruiser Over a Regular Bicycle

July 19, 2018 by Leave a Comment

 

beach cruisers

 

There is a lot of excitement with each passing moment as the holidays approach. They present the best opportunities to go on an island vacation. Riding a beach cruiser is a great way to enjoy the view and have a little fun along the way.  They feature long handlebars, a longer wheelbase and often a well-cushioned seat.  As a result, a beach cruiser is a perfect ride to explore the island at your own pace.  Here are four reasons to choose a beach cruiser over a regular bicycle:

 

The Fat Balloon Tires

First, a vacation by the sea is no place for a regular bicycle.  A beach cruiser is built with large balloon tires that will ensure a slow firm grip on the sandy shores of the beach.  Furthermore, these tires are wide, typically sized 2” to 4.7” wide and also low-pressure which allows the ride to float over sand like magic.

 

Extremely Comfortable

Next, while you are cruising down the beach you will notice how comfortable it is to sit on a beach cruiser.  It’s because it was designed for maximum comfort, ease, and stability.  The long, low frames add to the comfort level. The beach cruiser also sports a pedal forward design that gives room to stretch your legs.  Additionally, it allows for easier paddling.  Also, the seats aren’t so high where your legs can’t reach the ground at will like on other bikes. You get to sit upright on a well-cushioned wide seat while cruising on your bike. So, be sure to bask in the afternoon sunshine while enjoying your ride.

 

Ride In Style

Beach cruisers have a cool retro look to them.  As a result, they are like the Cadillac of bicycles.  They are stylish with a distinctive and iconic silhouette. The parts used to make the cruisers are famous for their inability to corrode or wear.  Their sexy and curved frames separate them from most ordinary bicycle brands too.

Furthermore, some beach cruisers are suitable for males while others have been carved for females.  So, the cruisers have attracted many cyclists due to its stylish looks.  As a result, get a cruiser bike for that unique ride on the beach!

 

Easy To Paddle And Maneuver

If you’re a beginner to riding on sand, beach cruisers are among the easiest bicycles to pedal. Unlike speed bikes, cruiser bikes make for a rather slow ride.  Which is ideal to explore the island at your own pace. Ordinary rides on the beach will frustrate your cycling experience.  But, that is not the case when it comes to cruiser bikes. The cruiser is designed for comfort.  As a result, choose a beach cruiser if you want the ultimate beach biking experience.

Conclusion

Finally, you don’t have to do much comparison between a regular bike and beach cruisers.  For example, the regular bicycles for men are not as stylish or as comfortable as a men’s cruiser bike.  Check each out, and than decide if you should opt for a cruiser bike for a beach vacation or not.

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Common Camping Injuries and How to Avoid Them

April 24, 2018 by Leave a Comment

Camping is a great activity and offers you the perfect getaway from a hectic routine. Camping makes a splendid family adventure and offers a fun-filled activity. Whether it is over the weekend or for a longer period, add a camping trip to your travel tips.  Living outdoors with basic amenities, cooking your own food, and sleeping in tents is more adventurous than you could ask for.  Not to mention the campfires and staring into the night sky with marvelous views that would take away all your stress and worries.  Today, I’m going to share tips on common camping injuries.  

 

 

common camping injuries

 

 

 

 While camping is a great activity and gives you a break from your routine life, it also exposes you to certain threats and dangers. Therefore, it is necessary to exercise reasonable precaution while you are camping to avoid discomfort and to maximize your enjoyment. If you are camping with your family, you are not only responsible for your safety but also for your family. Kids would play around and can often expose themselves to dangers, which is why you need to ensure their safety.

 You always need to carry first aid kits that can come in handy under dire circumstances, but understanding the risks and dangers you are exposed to would help in taking necessary precautions. Some of the most common camping injuries and ways to avoid them are:

 Burns

If you are not an experienced camper, you are bound to get burned a few times before you actually learn to start a campfire. Campfires certainly do not operate as your conventional stove, which has a gas controller. Therefore, you cannot control the flow of the flames and need to be cautious. Avoid placing the campfire too close to the tents or to other flammable stuff. When you sit around the fire, always sit in the opposite direction of the wind. Strong winds can direct the heat right towards you which can cause skin burns, choking, watery eyes, and discomfort. Second, when you start a campfire, do not add a lot of firewood immediately; let the fire settle in and add extra wood gradually to control the flame.

 

 

 

 

 

 Cuts and bruises

The most common injury on camping trips is cuts and bruises, if you are camping in a mountainous region with uneven grounds. When you are traveling with heavy backpacks, you might lose your footwork easily on uneven grounds that can cause bruises and cuts. While you go on a camping trip, always wear adventure gear and long boots to give your feed added protection and stability on slippery surfaces.

You also need to be careful while setting up the tent, handling sharp objects, and collecting firewood, as they carry the risks of being cut. Keep bandages and ointments for emergency and disinfectants to apply on wounds. For serious cuts, seek immediate medical help

Sprains and Fractures

Add slips and falls to the list of common camping injuries.  Slips and falls are likely when you are camping in uneven terrains or slippery surfaces. If you are camping in such regions or during rainy seasons, you can easily slip and sprain your leg. In worse scenarios, slip and fall can result in severe injuries, which would incapacitate you during the trip. Camping activities are supposed to be enjoyable and if you hurt your leg or sprain your ankle, it would be difficult to move around.

You always need to keep analgesics and wearable supporters for such situations. Moreover, you need to be extra careful in slippery areas. If you slip and injure yourself, do not put pressure on the affected area and seek immediate medical help. Often, what might seem like a sprain can turn into a severe fracture, which can only be confirmed by an x-ray. Therefore, always seek medical help immediately after you incur an injury.

 Now that most physicians have incorporated telemedicine into their practice, you can contact them using your smartphone or laptop.

 

 

 

 

Bug Bites

Bug bites are on the list of common camping injuries.  While camping is fun and adventurous, it can expose you to various bugs and insects that dwell in the wilderness. Bug bites such as mosquito bites can lead to complex health problems and would waste your trip. You need to be careful while you sleep as bugs often approach during nighttime. Keep bug repellant sprays with you and anti-bug body lotions; apply as and when required, especially during the night when bugs are highly active. Bug bites can cause you quite discomfort; mostly commonly itchiness. Certain bug bites are poisonous and require immediate attention to lower the risks of severe health conditions. If you are bitten by a bug and feel irritation, contact the closest doctor immediately. 

 Skin Ailments

Your body can have various reactions to the atmosphere and weather conditions. If you have a sensitive skin, you are likely to face some sort of allergy and skin problems.  Unfortunately, they can ruin your trip and turn it into an unpleasant venture. If you understand your allergies and understand your skin ailments, keep necessary medications, skin ointments to mitigate the risks of skin rashes and irritation.

 These simple tips can help your discomfort during your overnight camping adventure and would allow you to make the most out of your trip. Always carry generic, over-the-counter medicines and painkillers for quick relief from the above conditions. Other critical injuries involve snake bites that are poisonous and can be lethal. In case of snake bites, never try to suck out the poison nor cover the wound. Relax and seek immediate medical help as snake bites can only be treated by an antidote.

We hope that you will use our list of common camping injuries to prepare and hopefully avoid them on your next camping trip. 

About the author: James Smith is a survivalist, who loves to write about survival skills and techniques. You can follow him at @JamesSmith1609

 

 

 

 

                                                                                                                                                                         

Filed Under: Parenting Tips, Safety, Travel, Travel Tips Tagged With: , ,

Kid Friendly Things to Do In Virginia

July 14, 2017 by Leave a Comment

Today, I’m going to give a few travel tips on Things to Do in Virginia.  Washington, DC is the nation’s capital.  So, it’s full of history, galleries, restaurants, museums,  and more.  However, the state of Virginia is close by and is also full of history and things to do.  Furthermore, it boasts beautiful skylines, caverns, wineries and more.  It’s a perfect place to vacation or spend a few days of your vacation.  

 

Things to do in Virginia

 

 

Monticello –  First, the home of Thomas Jefferson is a must see.  Jefferson inherited land from his father when he was 26. He began building Monticello, and it became the primary plantation of Thomas Jefferson. Monticello has approximately 5,000 acres, which 2,000 were tended by 150 slaves.  The grounds consists of slave quarters, gardens, a dairy, a washhouse, store houses etc. The house is approximately 11,000 square feet.

Skyline Drive  –  Second, Skyline Drive is approximately 105-mile road long with several entry points.  It has 75 overlooks, places to lodge and dine along the way.  It takes about 3 hours to drive the route at 35 mph.  It’s most popular in the fall with the colorful foliage, but it’s just a beautiful in the warmer months too.  There’s plenty of wildlife, hiking trails and waterfalls.

Luray Caverns  –  Next, discovered erroneously in search of a cave, the caverns were discovered in 1878.  The guided tour of the Luray Caverns are the most popular caverns in Eastern America. You will also find a replica of a frontier home and Car and Carriage Caravan Museum.  Feeling adventurous, enter the garden maze and attempt to find your way out.  In your in need of a few adult beverages, check out the wine tasting.  There’s also a café to satisfy your hunger.

 

Luray Caverns

 

Shenandoah Caverns  – The Shenandoah Caverns are around 56 degrees year round.  The guided tour takes about an hour through 17 rooms.  The Breakfast Bacon has been featured in National Geographic magazine.  Long View Hall and Grotto of the Gods as well as formations like Capitol Dome, Diamond Cascade, and Rainbow Lake.  The Yellow Barn,  American Celebration on Parade, and Main Street of Yesteryear provide great family photo opportunities.  My grandchildren love this place.

Arlington Cemetery – Visit the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.  You will find John F. Kennedy and Jackie Kennedy Onassis gravesites at Arlington Cemetery as well as the Changing of the Guard.

Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens –  Next, the Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens was voted as one of the Top 10 Botanical Gardens in the country.  It offers 50 acres of gardens, dining and shopping.  It has more than a dozen themed gardens, which include a Children’s Garden, Rose Garden, Flagler Garden and the Kroger Kitchen Community Garden.

Great Dismal Swamp – The Great Dismal Swamp is managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.  It inhibits 112,000 acres.  The area is occupied by bobcats, bears, white tail deer, an array of fish, turtles, lizards and more.

 

Great Dismal Swamp

 

Victory Rover Cruises – Last, be sure to add Victory Rover Cruises to your list of things to do in Virginia.  It offers a 2 hour narrated cruise by the captain.  The Norfolk Naval Station  is the largest Naval Base in the world.  You will see Destroyers, Aircraft Carriers, Submarines, Cruisers, Yachts and more.  Additionally, lunch boxes may be available.

Family Drive-in Theatre – The Family Drive-In Theatre is located in Stephens City, VA located off I-81.  It has two screens, and offers first run movies at affordable prices.  For example, the price for children ages 4 – 11 is $4.00 and $8.00 for adults.  Also, you can bring lawn chairs, blankets and pillows and watch the movies under the stars.  The concessions are great too.  They sell everything from Angus burgers to grilled chicken salads.  Kids will love the chicken fingers, fries and mozzarella sticks.

Colonial Williamsburg – If your kids like history, head to Williamsburg.  They can enjoy Fife and Drums or a  carriage ride through old town.  Add the Virginia Museum of the Civil War, African America Heritage Trail, Manchester Slave Dock or Government Island.

Kings Dominion –  Enjoy the 20 acre water park.  They also have

Busch Gardens – Great amusement park.  It has something to offer kids off all ages.  You can see bald eagles, Clydesdale horses and gray wolves.  Additionally, you can ride roller coasters or head over to Dragon Land for and enjoy rides geared to smaller children.

Water Country USA –  Furthermore, be prepared to get wet!  Water Country USA is Virginia’s largest water park.  Sound refreshing doesn’t it.

Ocean Breeze – If your further south, check out Ocean Breeze.  It’s located close to Virginia Beach.  You can cool off at Adventure River, Rides and Slides or the Little Buccaneer area.

Magic Mountain Farm – If you enjoy horseback riding, check out the Magic Mountain Farm.

 

 

polo

 

 

Polo Matches  – Last, Virginia is horse country, and no stranger to great Polo matches.  Check out  the Banbury Cross Polo Club or the Great Meadow Polo Club.  And, don’t forget to stomp some divots!

 

Finally, I hope that you liked my list of things to do in Virginia.  So, pick a few items and enjoy the day with your family and friends.  Additionally, you may also like 9 Budget Friendly Activities in Virginia Beach.

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24 Things To Do In Washington, DC

May 24, 2017 by 1 Comment

Today, I’m sharing my list of Things to do in Washington, DC.  Washington, DC is our nation’s capital, and it’s always jumping.  It’s the perfect place to spend a week, a few days or a week-end.  It’s family friendly, and has 100’s of attractions.  You will find historical sites, restaurants and sports events.  Add this city to your list of travel destinations because it’s great for family activities, activities for couples, girl’s night or a honeymoon.  

 

 

 

things to do in washington, dc

 

Here’s my list of Things to do in Washington, DC. :

 

The Smithsonian – First, you can spend days at the Smithsonian.  It’s the world’s largest museum.  Includes 19 museums, galleries, gardens, and the National Zoo.  You can check out the Air and Space Museum, African American Museum, National History Museum, and more.

Holocaust Museum – During The Holocaust, 6 million Jews were persecuted and murdered by the Nazi regime. Also, Gypsies, the handicapped, homosexuals, and Jehovah’s Witness were targeted.

Madame Tussauds – Second, be sure to grab a photo opportunities with wax figures of past Presidents.  Furthermore, there’s First Ladies, sports figures, historical icons and more.  Purchase tickets on-line.

National Harbor – It’s a great place for family fun.  Hop on the Capital Wheel.  You will have a great view of the National Cathedral, Washington Monument, and the Masonic Temple.  You can also shop at the local Farmer’s Market.  Be sure to pack a few chairs for a free movie night.

Arlington Cemetery – Visit the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.  You will find John F. Kennedy and Jackie Kennedy Onassis gravesites as well as the Changing of the Guard.

Lincoln Memorial – April 14, 1865, Abraham Lincoln was assassinated.  In March 1867, Congress approved the Lincoln Monument Association.  It’s goal would be to build a memorial to the slain 16th President. The Lincoln Memorial is also the place of Martin Luther King’s iconic I Have a Dream Speech.

The Capitol – The US Capitol sits on approximately 274 acres.  The Statute of Freedom sits on top of the Capitol.  The U.S. House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate work in the Capitol.  It also houses The National Statuary Hall, which contains 100 statues. Each state has contributed 2 statutes.   Click here to book a tour.

 

 

Washington, DC

 

 

Washington Monument –  So, the Washington Monument stands at 555 feet tall.  Unfortunately, it is closed and will not reopen until 2019.  However, you can still roam the grounds for photo opportunities.

 

 

 

Washington, DC

 

 

Mount Vernon – Check out the plantation and 21 room mansion of George Washington.  It’s sits on the banks of the Potomac River.   The grounds include 500 acres and Washington’s family tomb.

 

 

Washington, DC

 

MLK Memorial – The memorial is covered with famous quotes by Martin Luther King.

Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception – Largest Catholic Church in America.

 

 

Washington, DC

 

National Cathedral – The National Cathedral is the length of two football fields.  Therefore, allow plenty of time to during your visit.

International Spy Museum – No visitor can spend time in Washington, DC ad not add the International Spy Museum to the their list of things to do in Washington, DC. Visitors can interact during their visit.  After all, there’s a little spy in all of us.  Furthermore, you can break codes after you take on a cover.  Afterwards, identify disguised spies or become the subject of covert surveillance.

White House – Add the White House to you list of things to do in Washington, DC.  Schedule your tour through your Congressional  representative’s office. Request tours up to 6 months in advance.  Schedule it at least a month before the requested tour date.

Ford’s Theatre –  Site of President Abraham Lincoln’s assassination by John Wilkes Booth.

St. John’s Episcopal Church – Located in Lafayette Square across from the White House.  Every US President has attended St. John’s at least once.

Bureau of Printing and Engraving –  It’s true money doesn’t grow on tree, but you can watch it being printed.  Did you know the life span of a $1 dollar bill is almost 6 years.  But the life span of a $100 dollar bill is almost 15 years.  Tours are not available on week-ends.

National Mall – Next, check out the 200-year-old American elm trees.  You will also find the National Archives, National Gallery of Art and U.S. Botanic Gardens along the National Mall.

Pierce Mill – Pierce Mill is the only 19th century gristmill operated by the National Park Service.  It originally operated from 1829-1897.

Capitol Riverfront – Additionally, the Capitol Riverfront is located on the Anacostia River.  It is home to MLB’s Washington Nationals and Yards Park.  Yards Park provides water fun for kids.

 

 

Washington, DC

 

 

Chinatown – There are approximately 20 Chinese and Asian restaurants in Chinatown. Also, Madame Tussauds and the International Spy Museum are nearby.

Embassy Roll – Massachusetts Avenue, NW, is home to more than 170 foreign embassies.  So, take a stroll down Embassy Roll.  It’s a great history lesson.

Petersen House – Last, Abraham Lincoln was moved from Ford’s Theatre to the Petersen House.  He died, April 15, 1865.

Frederick Douglas Home – Also, visit the last home that Frederick Douglas lived in before his death.

Finally, I hope that you liked my list of things to do in Washington, DC.  Pick a few items and enjoy the day with your family and friends.  Additionally, you may also like 9 Budget Friendly Activities in Virginia Beach.

 

 

 

 

 

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Ideas for Organizing Board Games

May 6, 2017 by Leave a Comment

 

 

organizing board games

 

You’ve collected a number of games because of your recent interest in old and new titles. However, it’s beginning to look like an episode of Hoarders at your home. Therefore, a bit of structure and organization has become a challenge.  Will you be declared the winner and once again the owner of your space? Here’s how to win with organization.  We also have a few tips on organizing board games:

Rolling Cart

Rolling carts are great for walking a few blocks with groceries or other items.  It’s also used to carry chairs, coolers and toys on the beach.  Also, a rolling cart is convenient for storing your board games. You can clearly see titles while neatly stacking them.

Soap Containers

Losing one card from a deck could mean spoiling the entire game forever. Seems like a major punishment for such a trivial thing as losing a small piece of paper. However, you won’t have to worry when you wrap a rubber band around the deck before placing it in a soap container. It’s an orderly, waterproof, and bend-proof way to maintain your card games.

Large Zip Lock

Likewise, it’s crucial to keep all game pieces in one spot. The game box was designed for this task, but mysterious things happen to pieces. Therefore, be proactive, ensure all pieces are kept together in a zip lock bag. Also, make sure the box maintains its integrity.

Toy Box

Moms and dads have been maintaining kids’ goodies in boxes and chests for years. Shell out some money and invest in a medium to large sized toy chest. With a bit of selection and an eye for interior decorating, you could buy a piece that looks great in your family or living room while it houses your tabletop games.

Closet Organizer

You can grab a closet organizer from your local Walmart or online at Amazon. It’s an easy fix for those who have too many shoes…or games. Rather than hang it in your bedroom closet, utilize your hall closet and store a plethora of board games.

Bookcase

How serious are you about board games? Serious enough to amass an entire library of titles? If so, rather than a place to house books use shelving to house your board game collection.  You can take the economical route, and build DIY shelves or you could hire a carpenter to build  something custom and more suitable for board games.

Milk Crates

They’re durable and great for storage.  Even better, you can stack them and place them beside one another. There’s no limit to how many games you can conveniently store in milk crates.

Wooden Ladder

Old, rustic looking ladders are chic at the moment and you can find them in kitchens, bedrooms, family rooms, etc. Decorators hang blankets over them, place books on top of rungs, or just paint them to match the interior. You can use one to arrange and start organizing board games in your home too.

We hope you like our tips on organizing board games, and will implement one or two in your home.

Filed Under: Entertainment, Parenting Tips Tagged With: , ,

Baking With Kids – Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe

September 21, 2016 by 2 Comments

chocolate chip cookie recipe

 

Baking with kids is a great way to spend some quality family time together.  It’s also an opportunity to teach them a science lesson or two! Have your kids ever wondered how mixing flour, eggs, sugar, and baking soda can create a delicious cake? Or how about what makes cookies chewy or crunchy? Within every batter or dough, there are multiple chemical reactions occurring at once to create the perfect baked treat.

First, mastering the science of baking can be a challenge.  Shari’s Berries created an infographic that breaks down the most common baking ingredients.  It also illustrates how each ingredient interacts with each other. The infographic is divided into six main sections.  Next, they describe the science behind different flour types, shortening, leavening agents, eggs, sugars, and salt. Check out the infographic below to inspire your kids to get baking!

The Science of Baking

Now that you and your kids are armed with baking knowledge, it’s time to start baking in the kitchen! Feel free to print out this guide and stick it on your refrigerator for your next baking project. Before you know it, your kids will transform from being little bakers to mad scientists!  Start with this Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe shared by my blogging friend, Tammy  Whitten, at www.womenmanagingstress.com:

 

Baking with Kids – Chocolate Chip Cookies:

 

baking with kids

 

 

 

Chocolate Chip Cookies

  • 2 sticks of butter
  • 1 T. molasses
  • 3 T. water
  • 3/4 c. brown sugar
  • 3/4 t baking soda
  • 2 1/2 c. flour
  • 3/4 c. toasted chopped walnuts
  • 1 egg
  • 1 t. vanilla
  • 3/4 c. sugar
  • 1/2 t. baking powder
  • 3/4 t salt
  • 1 bag semi-sweet chocolate chips

Next, preheat oven to 375 degrees.  Cream butter, egg, vanilla, molasses, and water in a bowl.  Sift together the sugars, baking powder, baking soda, salt and flour.  Combine the moist mixture with the dry ingredients.  Add the chocolate chips and chopped walnuts.  Be sure to chop the walnuts before you toast them.  Toasting should take approximately 5-10 minutes.  Keep an eye on them.

 

 

baking with kids

 

 

Finally, shape dough into one inch balls and place one inch apart on an ungreased cookie sheet.  Bake 12 minutes or until edges are just brown.  Cookies will be slightly doughy in the middle.  Place on a cooking rack.  Dunk in a glass of cold milk.  Yum!

 

 

 

 

 

 

Filed Under: Family Time, Parenting Tips Tagged With: , ,