Archives for November 2019

November 19, 2019 Leave a Comment

My Top 15 Favorite Giving Experiences

The countdown to Christmas is in full swing. I have slowly started to make my shopping lists and start to grab things when I find them out. I have always been someone who loves to give to others. I thoroughly enjoy watching my children’s faces when they open up that one present that was on the top of their wish list that year. However, as I was making my shopping lists, I couldn’t help but think of how many times my child actually ends up playing with most of the toys Santa delivers. They always seem to have their favorite couple of presents that they cling to more than others, but most of them are inevitably thrown to the bottom of the toy chest or closet by the end of winter break. While I still want them to have the experience of opening presents on Christmas morning, I also know I want to cut back on how many presents will eventually get ignored. I decided this year I want to try gifting my children with experiences in addition to a few special gifts. This also made me realize that instead of putting pressure on myself to find other loved ones the perfect gift, I could pass along experiences to them as well. I feel like we lose the magic of Christmas when we are stressing over the perfect gift for everyone. I also love that when giving someone an experience, you can often share the moment together. The gift ends up being enjoyable for everyone and will create memories to last a lifetime. Check out some of my favorite experiences I thought of and heard about from other folks. Let me know if you decide to participate in any of them with your own family this year!

1. Have a “Yes” Day

I totally stole this idea from Jennifer Garner. She has revealed in interviews that she has one day a year where she says yes to any of her kids requests (obviously, she sets boundaries beforehand). However, for the most part, she says yes to her kids all day long. How fun could it be to have one day a year to have ice cream for breakfast and go do all of the fun and goofy things your kids love to do? I am sure you would be one tired Mama at the end of the day, but I think it sounds worth it!

2. Theatre or Movie Tickets

We love to go to the movies, but it can get quite pricey as a family of five. However, it would be more affordable if we cut out on a few toys this year and replaced it with a fun night out. If you want to give the experience to the adults in your life, try seeing if there are any fun theatre shows nearby instead of a movie. It can be fun to switch things up!

3. Sporting Event

There are always sporting events all year round in most major cities. Even if you do not live close enough to go to a professional team event, see what is going on at your local high schools or colleges. Sporting events are always a great way to kick back and show some team spirit, no matter what the sport or team is!

4. Paint Night

Paint nights can be a fun girls night out. Not only do you get to spend time being silly and catching up with your friends, you also get to take your artwork home with you. With this gift you are getting the best of both worlds- an experience and something to hold onto forever!

5. Cooking Class

Cooking class can be a great gift for adults or children, depending on the age restrictions of the class. Check out what your area has to offer online. You can sometimes find these types of classes being offered at your local community college, library or restaurants.

6.Spa Day

Spa days are a great gift to give someone who needs some R & R time. Depending on how much money you are looking to spend, there are a ton of different options to choose from. If an entire day is out of budget, look into a mani/pedi option or an express facial or massage. I personally love getting pampered for any amount of time and with any service!

7. Movie Night In

A movie night can be just as fun from the comfort of your own home! Check out what popular movies are trending or grab one of your favorites that you already own. If you’re able to, take time to splurge and do a few extra things to make this movie night stand out from others. You could build a blanket fort, make a popcorn and hot chocolate bar, order pizza, or make huge ice cream sundaes with all of the toppings!If you are feeling extra creative, you could even set up a fake concession area and create fake tickets for admission!

8. College Non Credit Class

Most community colleges offer non credit classes each semester. These classes are usually way more affordable than credited classes and don’t require books. I have seen some really fun things being advertised and open to the public to sign up for like photography, cooking, second languages, fitness and dance classes. See if anything in your area would be a good fit for one of your loved ones!

9. Comedy Show

The gift of laughter is one of my favorite gifts to give! What better way than to get tickets to a comedy show? Get online and see who’s coming to your area and grab some tickets for a fun date night out with your loved ones!

10. Skating

Skating always makes me nostalgic, no matter what kind it is! Pick a night and take the whole family to a local ice rink or roller rink for a fun night of laughing, falling and silliness.

11. Monthly Yoga Pass

A lot of yoga studios offer one month passes which can be a great way to see if it is something you enjoy doing before fully committing. If you have someone in your life who could use a little “Me” time, think about giving them a pass to try yoga. It could help them relax and feel better after the stresses of the holiday.

12. Dinner Date

I know that dinner out can really add up as well, especially when it is a family going. If you have a fun new restaurant in your area, think about getting a gift card for a family or couple that are on your gift list. It can be a missed experience for someone who doesn’t get to enjoy going out very often.

13. Amusement Park Tickets

Amusement parks are fun for the entire family. There is always something that can be found at an amusement park for any age! Check out Groupon or other sites online to see if you can score a good deal on tickets. Once the weather gets warmer outside, head to your local park to soak up some sun and fun with your family!

14. Concert Tickets

Any music lovers in your life? I always love going to a good concert and enjoying a night out listening to my favorite tunes. There are also a lot of local kid concerts that are offered in most cities. It is a great way to introduce music to your kiddos and have an excuse to break out your dancing shoes!

15. Photo Shoot

A fun photo shoot is probably my favorite experience idea of all! I can’t think of anyone who doesn’t love to get pictures taken with their families. Check out local photographers and see what kind of holiday specials they are offering. You can often find someone who offers mini sessions at affordable prices. It’s a great way to grab a few awesome pictures that your family will be sure to cherish for years to come!

November 14, 2019 1 Comment

Holiday Gift Ideas for Your Mom and Dad

Christmas is right around the corner you guys! Even though I am not sure how it is already mid November, I know I need to start getting organized and start buying my Christmas presents ASAP. I don’t like to wait until the last minute to get my shopping done because I feel like a lot of things get sold out quickly during this time of the year. I never have a problem figuring out what I want to buy for my kiddos since they drop not so subtle hints all year long! However, sometimes I do find myself struggling on what I want to get for my parents and in laws. I feel like my parents never have a want or need for anything specific. And, any time I ask them for ideas I am usually met with “We really don’t need anything”. Anyone else hear that from their parents? I know they mean well but I am left racking my brain trying to come up with something they don’t already have and would find useful or fun! I have been doing some searching this year and have found some awesome and affordable gift ideas that would be perfect for any adult in your life. Check them out below and snag some before they sell out!

Kindle

Kindle prices have started to drop over the years. This one from Amazon gets great reviews, has free shipping and is under $100! It also comes in two different colors and has a long battery life. It is a perfect gift idea for the readers in your life!

Electric Tea Kettle

An electric tea kettle is a perfect gift to use for the upcoming chilly weather. They are faster than using a standard kettle or microwave. I love the stainless steel color that will match any kitchen and the auto shutoff. This one is currently on sale at Target for under $20! Grab one before they are gone!

Meat Thermometer

I love Williams and Sonoma kitchen gear, but some times their prices can be a bit high. This meat thermometer is a perfect gift and gets a five star rating. It is also super affordable and under $25. It has large numbers that can be read easily and quickly and will be a perfect addition to any chef’s kitchen.

Sherpa Blanket

Sherpa material can be found everywhere this season. I am in love with this cozy, warm and soft sherpa blanket from Macy’s. It is the perfect size to cuddle up with while reading, watching a movie or taking a nap. It is also reversible so it offers two different color patterns that can be switched up. I am crushing on the buffalo plaid color which is also trending right now!

Scrabble Deluxe

This scrabble deluxe game is a great edition to a classic game. I love that it is made from a beautiful wood case that can be easily folded up so it can be taken on the go. Family game nights are one of my favorite ways to spend time with my parents and in laws. This game would be a perfect addition to our evenings and is under $40 with free shipping!

Mug Warmer

I seem to be notorious for giving out mugs for Christmas every year. I know my parents use them daily and my Mom always loves getting new ones. However, I wanted to change it up a bit this year. I found this awesome mug warmer on Amazon that is getting great reviews. It is also only $10.99 which makes it a really fun and affordable present.

Instant Pot

Instant pots have seemed to take the kitchen and cooking world by storm this year. They make cooking so much quicker and easier, especially on nights when you want to relax and save time. Walmart has this one on rollback right now and it is over $50 off!

K Cup Variety Pack

Drinking the same thing every morning can get boring. How fun is this variety pack for Keurig’s? This pack allows you to try over 30 different drinks and see which flavor you like best! It is sure to give your morning routine a little variety and change!

November 8, 2019 Leave a Comment

Healthy Alternatives for Two of Your Favorite Holiday Treats

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Every year from October through December it’s a battle of wills between my hereditary sweet tooth (thanks mom) and all of the holiday treats floating around. And since I’m not one to punish my body by starving or denying it a little dessert every now and then, I’ve found a few hacks that deliver the yum while still being totally healthy!

If you’re looking to indulge this holiday season but still stay on track for your health goals, try these genius swaps.

Healthy Alternatives for Two of Your Favorite Holiday Treats

Eat this, not that…

Protein Peanut Butter Cups instead of Reeses

I’ve been notorious for raiding my kids’ trick-or-treat bag for all the Reeses cups. Those things are so good! But this year, because I’m cutting the processed sugar, I whipped up the most delicious copy-cat…protein peanut butter cups! They taste just like a Reeses, but they’re packed with protein and natural ingredients.

Check out this video for easy instructions and the exclusive Kylee’s Korner recipe below!

Kylee’s Korner Protein PB cups:

(Makes 5-7)

4 TBSP natural crunchy PB
1/4 C (vanilla protein powder)
4 TBSP Unsweeted Vanilla Almond Milk
1/3 C 60% or 90% dark chocolate
5-7 silicone cupcake cups

1. Combine all ingredients except dark chocolate in a bowl.

2. Melt Dark Chocolate according to package directions

3. Pour small amount of chocolate into bottom of each silicone cup, swirl around to coat the bottom.

4. Spoon PB mix into each chocolate coated cup, then top with the remaining chocolate.

5. Freeze for at least 15 minutes

6. Pop Out and Enjoy!

Eat this, not that…

Dark Chocolate Salted Protein Truffles instead of that box of chocolates

Every year a box of chocolates inevitably falls into my lap and is usually gone within a day. This year I found the most amazing swap that satisfies my chocolate craving without all the sugar and fat. So I’ll be freezing these dark chocolate truffles to keep on hand and re-gifting that box of chocolates!

Dark Chocolate Salted Protein Truffles:

(Makes 15)

3 TBSP Natural PB
2 TBSP Unsweet Dark Cocoa Powder
1 C Dry Rolled Oats
1 tsp salt
Splash of Unsweetened Vanilla Almond Milk
2 TBSP hard coconut oil
1/3 C Dark Chocolate Chips
2 Scoops Vanilla Protein Powder ()
Drizzle or 2 of all natural Honey

1. Mix PB, Dark Cocoa Powder, Rolled Oats, Protein Powder, coconut oil, salt and splash of almond milk together in a bowl.

2. Drizzle honey to add some strength to help in combine. Add a little more almond milk if needed.

3. Mix in Dark Chocolate Chips

4. Roll into 15 small balls and enjoy! Freeze what you don’t eat and get one out any time you have a sweet attack!

As far as healthy holiday hacks go, protein powder can make some really delicious, guilt-free desserts. Try these healthy protein brownies for example.

The holidays don’t need to be a reason to stop your healthy habits. Before you hit a holiday party, drink a protein shake to avoid overeating. While you’re there, fill your plate first with veggies, fruit, and lean protein and save a bit of room for that sip of eggnog. Happy holidays!

November 7, 2019 Leave a Comment

6 Things To Do with Your Spouse After the Kids Go Down

Love my kids. So much. But they consume a lot of time and energy to the point that all day long, my husband and I are at their beck and call. The only alone time we seem to get nowadays is that brief window after the kids go to bed. Here are some things to do with your spouse after the kids go down (besides Netflix and, you know…”chill”) that can make that brief window fun and meaningful.

6 Things You Can Do with Your Spouse after the Kids Go Down

1. Give foot rubs

One year, my husband jokingly made a New Year’s resolution to rub my feet every single night for 365 days. Although he may have missed a few days here and there, it quickly became the very best part of my day. We’d sit on the couch together (when do you have the time to do that during the day?), he’d rub my feet, and we’d just talk. Next year, I think I’ll return the favor.

(P.S. I love this lotion. We’ve gone through many bottles of it!)

2. Check out new music

Another thing we like to do when the kids go down is check out new music together. We’ll share AirPods, check out what’s new from our favorite artists on YouTube and spend an hour or so just being “real people” again.

3. Couples stretching

How often do you take the time to stretch? If you’re like me, it’s near to never and my husband and I are good to squeeze a workout in, but terrible about stretching. But did you know how important a good stretch is? It has amazing benefits.

My husband and I recently instituted something we call Sunday Stretch. After the kids go to bed, we get out this book and go through the stretches together. There are some great couples’ stretches that are insanely relaxing and give you the physical contact you need to feel close and connected.

4. Start a book club, just you two

With the convenience of streaming services, it’s easy to get into the comfortable rut of show surfing. But if you’re looking to shake it up and increase try something meaningful together, start a book club. The only two members should be you and your spouse. Read the same book (try these Pulitzer Prize books) and then talk about it.

5. Critique movies

To be completely honest, sometimes my husband and I are so beat from a long day or week that all we want to do is lay down and watch a movie together. And that’s great! But sometimes we waste time just searching for a movie to watch.

Instead, turn movie watching into something more. Become a Siskel and Ebert. Start with a list of notable movies (like Shawshank Redemption, Forest Gump, and Schindler’s List). Create a grading system and rate each movie you watch.

6. Late night treat delivery

This has become one of our favorite things to treat ourselves. When the kids go down, we’ll order fresh cookies from a local cookie delivery business or have Uber Eats deliver a desert or appetizer from our favorite restaurant. It feels like a secret, something the kids don’t know about and you don’t have to share.

So spice it up! Turn dead time into quality time with a few of these things to do with your spouse that require very little effort but yield a noticeable difference in your relationship.