Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Life

Tag: Crafts

  • Have a Memorable Fourth of July

    Have a blast this July 4th using the following recipes, backyard décor ideas, and fun outdoor activities.  

     Fourth of July Recipes 

    • These delicious July 4th picnic recipes will result in an all-star gathering.    
    • Stir this Provencal pesto into a bowl of boiled potatoes or pasta salad with shredded chicken.  
    • Mix a refreshing pear vinaigrette with this grilled vegetable and mozzarella ensalada. 
    • These open-face pesto-chicken mozzarella melts will be a huge hit at any gathering. Serve these grilled chicken burgers on a slice of ciabatta bread with a few fresh basil leaves for one incredible meal.  
    • Serve flavor-packed black bean chipotle burgers that will make everyone’s tastebuds dance with joy.  
    • Easy to grab, delicious to eat, these hamburger sliders with cranberry chutney are perfect for any backyard gathering.  
    • Bake one white and one red velvet cake. After they have cooled, cut each cake into about 1-inch slices and stack them alternating each layer, so it looks like the stripes on the American flag. Add blue food coloring to icing before spreading it on top, and then for the final touch, add white star sprinkles.  
    • End the day with a fresh and berry-topped, berry delicious flag cake.  
    • Bake an Independence Day cookie pizza! Press and flatten cookie dough into a 14-inch pizza pan and bake it until golden. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, and then scatter mini marshmallows across the top. Then sprinkle the top with red and blue candy-coated chocolates. Easy and delicious.  
    • This patriotic berry flag tart is just as tasty as it looks.  
    • Make American flag pretzel sticks by dipping a pretzel into melted white chocolate about 5 inches. After it has cooled, dip the same end of the pretzel into melted blue chocolate about 1 inch and place white start sprinkles on the blue portion before it dries. Fill a piping bag with red icing and drizzle it back and forth across the white chocolate to create the stripes.  

    • Get your patriotic party on with incredible 4th of July drinks.  
    • Enjoy these refreshing summer cocktails that are exactly what your guests will enjoy at the end of a hot day.  

     

    Backyard Preparation and July 4th Décor 

    • Check out creative benches and built-in seating solutions for your deck or patio that are practical and look great.  
    • Learn how to build a freestanding deck to enhance your home’s exterior and host memorable outdoor gatherings.   
    • Summer is in full swing; here are a few outdoor patio ideas that will help you enjoy your July 4th gathering and all future outdoor parties.    
    • Red, white, and blue, these Fourth of July crafts are for you.  
    • These DIY planter rockets will be a blast to create and will make your yard look fabulous.    

     

    Outdoor Activities for the 4th of July 

    • Get your game on and discover some family fun with fourth of July games for kids.  
    • Make a photo booth in your backyard! Use construction paper to cut out patriotic themed props such as red hats and blue bowties. Take silly photos and share them with loved ones.   
    • Discover endless entertainment with these games you’ll be playing all summer long.  
    • Build a rocket out of cardboard boxes so the young ones can fly high. Take a large cardboard box, cut out ½ of one side, and place it upright so the opening serves as a window. Cut out two wings and tape one to each side. For the top of the rocket, cut out a triangle and attach it to the top. If you want to take it another level, you can paint the outside or wrap it in fun wrapping paper. Glue painted bottle caps on to look like buttons and use a paper plate as a wheel. Blast off!  

    • These fun outdoor yard games are great family entertainment and will be a hit at parties.  
    • Set up a kid’s craft table. Use toilet paper or paper towel tubes to make little rockets! You and the kids can paint the cardboard red, white, and blue and then glue ribbons or tassels onto one end. Paint little stars on the outside to give it a boost! For the top of the rocket, make a cone shape out of paper to glue it to the top. 

  • Holiday Décor, Crafts, and Recipes – Home, Hearth and Holidays with BHGRE

    The holidays are right around the corner! Whether you’re planning an intimate dinner or a festive party, you can find ideas for spectacular crafts, inspirational decor, and recipes everyone will enjoy. 

    Holiday Décor and Crafts 

    • Hanukkah is the festival of lights, so create something that will illuminate any room. Take large glass vases, fill them with string or fairy lights, and place dreidels around the sides. It would also make a beautiful centerpiece. 

    • Have a magical feast and decorate the Hanukkah table, complete with beautiful centerpieces, napkin ideas, and decor in traditional blue and white—perfect for any celebration.  
    • Help this year’s celebration glow a little brighter and make a modern marbled menorah using concrete and copper. 
    • Pour blue gemstone vase fillers in the bottom half of different sized vases. Fill them up with water and then place floating candles on the top.
    • Discover festive DIY Christmas garland ideas for every room in your house.  

    • These Christmas decorating ideas for small spaces bring the merriment of the holiday season into even the tiniest corners, thanks to simple accents like miniature Christmas trees, homemade garlands, and pretty place settings. 
    • Spruce up your outdoor space to bring the merriment of the holidays to your home. There are plenty of holiday outdoor décor ideas for a beautiful and cozy winter to help you create a warm and welcoming beautiful scene.
    • Get your home ready for the Christmas season with these easy snowflake crafts. From snowflake wreaths to simple gift tags, these crafts shine with holiday spirit.
    • Place cinnamon sticks around a candle and wrap a piece of burlap or twine around the sticks to keep them in place. 

    • Dress up old Mason jars like jolly gnome cookie jars to deliver the sweet gift of Christmas desserts or use them to liven up your kitchen. 
    • Make a memorable Kwanzaa tabletop decoration. Add a pop of color to the table by placing fruit in a basket to represent the beautiful harvest. Some things you can incorporate to add a mix of texture are straw mats, ears of corn, and of course, the Zawadi for the last night. Make beaded napkin rings using red, black, and green beads on a wire.   

    • Buy air-dry clay to shape and construct your very own kinara. Mold yellow or brown clay into a rectangle. Before it dries, use the bottom of a candle and push it into the clay so when it dries, you can pop the candles in easily.    

    Scrumptious Holiday Recipes 

    • ‘Tis the season for easy Christmas appetizers that are ready in 25 minutes or less.  
    • Making a Caprese Christmas wreath is quick and easy to make, plus it looks incredible. Lay basil leaves in a ring to shape the wreath and place cherry tomatoes and fresh mozzarella balls on top of the leaves to look like ornaments. Before serving the dish, drizzle on extra virgin olive oil and top it off with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. 
    • Your family may forget to leave room for dinner once they taste this jalapeno cornbread. 
    • The best Hanukkah brisket will fall apart in your mouth. It’s so yummy; don’t be surprised if they are no leftovers.  

    • Every holiday celebration needs a moist 5-star rated cinnamon-apple cake. 
    • Donut knock it until you’ve tried these donut muffins. They are mini muffins that taste just like cinnamon sugar doughnut holes with a beautiful touch of nutmeg. 
    • Instead of assembling a gingerbread house, make gingerbread cookies and blow the roof off your party by placing the cookies around the sides of a cake as décor. 

    • Cookies are cool, but Santa gives two thumbs up to these Christmas cake pops. 
    • A chocolate-berry wreath cake draped in homemade chocolate frosting makes for a doubly delicious dessert recipe. This chocolate cake gets dressed up for the holidays with fresh berries placed to look like a festive wreath.
    • This peach cobbler will have your guests going for seconds… or thirds. Don’t forget to add a scoop of your favorite vanilla ice cream. 
    • Dreidel, Dreidel, Dreidel, I made it out of marshmallow. Take a chocolate kiss, dip the bottom into melted chocolate, and then press it onto one end of a marshmallow. Place it into the fridge for 10 minutes until it sets. Create the dreidel top by pressing a pretzel stick into the opposite end of the marshmallow. Dip the entire bottom of the dreidel into a bowl of melted chocolate and after it sets, use white chocolate to pipe on the Hebrew letters.
    • Get the party started with fabulous Christmas cocktails, from apple cider cocktails and peppermint punch to hot chocolate and unforgettable eggnog.
    • These holiday drinks will have you singing Fa la la la la la. 

  • Have a Fantastic Father’s Day

    Have a fantastic Father’s Day with these fun activities, delicious recipes, and of course, great gift ideas that will be sure to put a smile on his face. 

    Father’s Day Activities  

    • Host a movie night in the backyard and watch your dad’s favorite movie. Don’t forget to bring his favorite snacks. Discover how to create a cinema in your backyard and read our top-notch movie suggestions here.  
    • No matter what your father likes, make sure you reserve some time for Dear Ol’ Dad. Whether it’s fishing, painting, board games, golfing, or gardening, set aside some time to do what he enjoys.  
    • Create your own backyard bowling alley. Paint ten 2-liter soda bottles and line them up. Then grab a tennis ball or softball and get the game rolling. 
    • Create your own version of ring toss. Grab 2-3 different sized buckets and drill or nail them into a fence or wooden post. Then all you need is ping pong balls, pool rings, or anything else you can try to toss into the bucket. The more difficult the bucket the more points you get.  

    • Spend quality time outdoors with these awesome yard games.  
    • Bean bag ladder toss. Set up a ladder outside and take several steps back. Take your bean bags and try to throw them between the rungs. Each opening can be worth a different amount of points. 

    Gift Ideas for Dad  

    • Make dad a playlist. Gather all of his favorite songs and compile an awesome playlist that mean something to both of you. Here are some feel-good songs he will enjoy.  
    • If you can’t celebrate in person, order his favorite dessert or food and have it delivered to him. Nothing says “I love you” like a plate full of someone’s favorite meal.  

    Father’s Day Recipes 

    Let There be Dad Jokes  

    Write a bunch of your favorite dad jokes on sticky-notes and post them all over your home. Nothing says I love you like a ton of silly jokes.  

    • If you want to go fishing, just let minnow. Fishing you a Happy Father’s Day!  
    • You’re the gratest Dad in the world! Sorry if that sounds cheesy.  
    • How does a penguin build a house? Igloos it together.  
    • How can you tell it’s a dogwood tree? By the bark.  
    • Never buy anything with velcro, it’s a total rip-off.  
    • What happens to an illegally parked frog? It gets toad. 

  • Celebrate Cinco de Mayo

    Celebrate Cinco de Mayo in style. Below are fun activities, crafts, and recipes you can use to for a fiesta to remember.

    Let’s Taco Bout Cinco de Mayo Recipes

    • Don’t have any tortillas? These homemade flour tortillas are calling your name and easy to make using just a few ingredients you can find in your pantry. All you need is all-purpose flour, salt, water, and vegetable oil. There’s nothing better than a fresh–made tortilla hugging all your ingredients together.

    Cinco de Mayo Craft Ideas

    • Shake, shake, shake your maracas! Take plastic eggs and fill them with rice or beans. Place the eggs between the heads of two spoons and tape it in place. You can also wrap the spoons and egg in tinfoil and tape the outside for a smoother finish. Then just shake, shake, shake. Another option would be to fill empty water bottles with beans or rice and paint the outside with festive colors.
    • Create beautiful and vibrant tissue paper art that will brighten up your festivities. Let your creativity bloom with these beautiful paper flowers.
    • Get your hands in clay! Create clay pots by rolling your clay into a long rope and then starting at the bottom, coiling the rope around into the shape of a pot. Use quick-drying clay and once the clay is dry, paint it with vibrant colors.
    • No piñata, no problem. Learn how to craft your very own DIY piñata.

    • Make your very own beautiful paper flower headbands. Simply wrap a headband with green ribbon or pipe cleaners and then glue your paper flowers to the top of the band.
    • Get planting! Clean empty cans in order to paint and decorate them as planters. If you don’t have paint, wrap the outside of the cans with ribbon or colorful yarn. Fill the cans with the vibrant paper flowers you made to brighten up the room.
    • Discover tons of bright and fun Cinco de Mayo crafts that are perfect for kids. Make cute cacti out of socks or vibrant yarn banners to hang around your home.

    Cinco de Mayo Activities

    These ideas will help you throw a high-color, low-stress gathering filled with authentic fun.

    • Become the hostess with the mostess and check out these ideas for an outdoor Cinco de Mayo celebration.
    • It’s important to celebrate Cinco de Mayo respectfully. Read about the traditional Mexican holiday with a fascinating history.
    • The largest Cinco de Mayo celebration takes place in the city of Puebla, where the original battle took place. There are parades with dancing, singing, and re-enactments. Discover the beautiful traditional flowing dressings and traditional Mexican pantsuits.
    • Share these Cinco de Mayo fun facts with your kids.
    • Host a virtual happy hour with friends and family. Stir up some fun with these delicious cocktails.

  • Celebrate Mother’s Day

    Discover tons of fun and unique ways to bring a smile to the face of the special women in your life. Let’s celebrate all the moms!

    Activities Your Mom Will Love

    • If you are unable to visit, you can still share a meal over Zoom. Friends and family can also take turns sharing fond memories and things you appreciate about her.
    • Watch a movie together with “Netflix Party.”
    • Stir up some quality time and plan a virtual cooking date. If you are able to visit, spend time baking together and learn family recipes!
    • Uncover how to host the perfect Mother’s Day tea party.
    • If your mom enjoys gardening, spend a few hours soaking up the sun and creating succulent gardens together. Find a decorative stone and use a sharpie to write “I love you” for a nice final touch.

    • Pack a picnic with her favorites snacks and treats, and head to the park for a beautiful day together outside.
    • Spend the evening having a fun family game night.
    • Create a backyard cinema and watch her favorite movie outside under the stars. Don’t forget the popcorn!

    Sweet Mother’s Day Treats and Recipes

    The brunch must go on! Whether you’re in the same room or celebrating virtually, these scrumptious ideas will lead to a mouthwatering Mother’s Day.

    • If you aren’t able to visit, place a delivery order from her favorite local restaurant and video chat while you share a meal.
    • Send her a treat that will remind her of a meal you shared on a trip together.

    Share the Love

    Treat your mom, we all know she deserves it. Make sure you choose and order a gift with plenty of time to spare. Don’t forget to have it gift-wrapped!

    • Make her a playlist. You can even make a special one for each of her hobbies.
    • House plant or herbs in a cute planter.
    • Create an enticing retreat for your wife, mom, or friend. Learn how to transform your porch into a dream space she can enjoy.
    • Find a subscription she might enjoy such as a monthly book club, dinner kit, or craft box.
    • Create a basket filled with scented candles, bath bombs, and other things she can enjoy. If you’re feeling crafty, make your own bath bombs to help melt away her stress.
    • Check out these heartfelt Mother’s Day gift ideas for inspiration and ideas.
    • Make her something yourself such as this comfy DIY blanket.
    • If you can’t visit mom in person, here are sentimental gift ideas she will love.
    • Purchase a gift certificate to her favorite spa she can use whenever she wants.

  • Christmas – BHGRE Season of Sharing

    It’s the most wonderful time of the year to spread and feel cheer. Here are activities and crafts that you can try, and charity ideas that will put a twinkle in your eye.  

    Christmas Activities  

    Tis the season to partake in fun activities that will bring you and your loved one’s joy.  

    • Host virtual parties with your friends and family with a fun activity or theme. Everyone will be safe and warm in their own home but get to catch up while creating the something together. 
      • Decorate ugly sweaters. 
      • Have a cookie decorating party. 
      • Make gingerbread houses together.
    • Have a dance party and cue the happy music!  
    • Uncover six tips for hosting the best holiday party. 
    • Here are some great activities you can do together outside while practicing social distancing
      • Build snow creatures and animals. 
      • Meet at the best local hill for sledding. 
      • Ice skate at a local rink.
      • Make snow angels.  
      • Go snowshoeing or hiking.  
      • Build an igloo or snow fort.
    • These clever Christmas hacks will help you simplify the holidays and enjoy the season. 
    • Get into the holiday spirit with these awesome Christmas games. 

    Jolly Christmas Gift Ideas 

    Give a gift that will be sure to make your loved ones smile. This year try giving personal gifts or even making your own gifts for friends and family. 

    • Find a glass jar or cute bag and fill it with your loved one’s favorite things. Items you may want to include are their favorite candy, something that will remind them of a moment you shared, your favorite photo of you together, and a list of your five favorite things about them. 
    • Create a customized calendar using photos of their favorite things.  
    • Discover personal and easy crafts with photos your friends and family will appreciate.  
    • Check out these DIY Christmas gifts that will have everyone saying ho-ho-ho!  

    • We could all use a little relaxation this holiday season. Create a relaxation kit with some of the following:  
      • Create or buy candles with relaxing scents such as ylang ylang, lavender, or lemon 
      • Warm string lights 
      • A soft blanket 
      • Coloring books 
      • Make coupons such as “two hours of YOU time” and “breakfast in bed” that they can cash in whenever they want 
      • Let their skin shine with this DIY natural face mask 
      • Make them a lavender eye pillow 
      • Everyone loves bath soaks 
    • Frame a map of somewhere you went on vacation together and pin photos from that trip around the map. 
    • Photo transfers are personal, homemade, and something your loved one will treasure forever. Just pick the photo they would love and follow these photo transfer steps.  
    • Buy someone an online learning class for something they love. You can find cooking classes, wine tastings, craft classes, acting classes, exercise courses and tons more.  
    • Take drinking glasses up a few notches by etching something personal onto them. All you need is armor etch, an exacto knife, masking tape, and a set of plain beer glasses, cocktail glasses or whichever drinkware they use. One option would be to tape a stencil to the outside of the glass wherever you want the shape or letter to go. Put on gloves, dip a paint brush into the armor etch and apply a coat on the stencil carefully. Let it sit for 2-3 minutes and then wash off the etching cream and peel off the tape and stencil. You can also use the exacto knife to cut out a shape, sports logo, or anything you would like out of thick paper and tape that to the glass. Make sure the paper isn’t so thin the armor etch will go through it, otherwise just follow the same steps above.  
    • Homemade gifts from the heart… and for the stomach. Baking shows you took the time to make your loved ones something tasty. Click here for delicious Christmas baking recipes.  
    • Gift wrapping tips and tricks:  

    Christmas Crafts 

     Yule love these Christmas craft ideas. 

    • Create your own holiday party decorations. 
    • Make your Christmas tree shine with easy handmade Christmas ornaments.   
    • Let the countdown begin using advent calendars.  
    • Rudolph the red–nosed pinecone is easy to make. Use a glue gun to attach either a small red bell or red pom-pom as the nose. Cut diamond shapes out of fabric and pinch and glue together one end to shape it into ears. Twist pipe cleaners into the shape of antlers and glue them on along with goggly eyes.  
    • Create a winter wonderland in your home! Pick one room to focus on. Hang up sparkling string lights that look like stars. Buy white felt that looks like snow and cover the tables and shelves before you put out décor. Cut snowflakes out of paper and hang them all over the room. Spray pinecones with fake snow paint or splatter it with plain white paint so they look nice and frosted. Place silver and white globes in glass vases. Paint your old candlesticks white and place them on the mantle under a frosted garland.   
    • Make Christmas themed DIY mason jar snow globes.  
    • On those days it’s way too cold outside here are easy indoor crafts for kids.  
    • Snowflake craft ideas
      • No two crafts are the same, here is an assortment of snowflake crafts.  
      • Glue together popsicle sticks in the shape of a snowflake. Once it’s dry paint it white and add silver glitter to make it sparkle. If you don’t have paint, wrap a white string around each stick and make sure no part of the popsicle stick is showing. 
      • For a more natural snowflake, try this DIY natural wood snowflake.  
      • Draw a few snowflakes onto a thick piece of paper and then carefully cut them out using an exacto knife. Attach the snowflakes to an old vase and then paint the entire vase. Once it’s dry, take off the snowflakes. For an extra pop, place a candle inside and watch the light shine through the snowflakes.  
    • Learn how to make perler bead snowflakes. 
    • Get cozy and toasty with this DIY weighted blanket.  

    Christmas Recipes 

    All I want for Christmas are these scrumptious treats.   

    • Check out these four delicious hot chocolate recipes. For a snowman marshmallow topper, stick 3 marshmallows together using toothpicks. Using chocolate pipe 3 small buttons on the middle marshmallow and eyes and a smile on the top marshmallow. Give the snowman a cute little nose using a candy corn. For arms and legs use pretzel sticks. 
    • Take a sip and say ahhh with these eggnog recipes.  
    • Winter is snow laughing matter. Warm up with these winter drink recipes. 
    • Hot potato these crispy potatoes with rosemary salt are tasty.  
    • You will be stuffed and happy after eating these buttered stuffing with mushrooms. 
    • Ham for the holidays. 
    • Enjoy making and eating these Santa sugar cookie cutouts. 
    • Make your favorite pie or cake in a round pan. After you cut it into slices decorate them to look like Santa’s hat. Pipe red icing over the entire triangle slice. Then simple pipe a white ball on the top corner and the hat rim on the outside edge. 
    • Don’t miss out on this Christmas pudding recipe.  
    • These mouthwatering brown butter snickerdoodle cookie cups are 10/10.  

    Ways to Give Back 

    This holiday season open your heart and discover several ways you can make a difference.   

    • Teach your children the significance of charity. Do something generous. Donate your time or items, listen to someone in need, or reach out to those less fortunate.  
    • A lot of parents are trying to work and teach at the same time and are feeling overwhelmed. Offer tutoring services to kids that need help. 
    • Make or donate gifts to those in will not be able to afford their own this year. 
    • Dress up as Santa to bring some holiday cheer to those that are near!  
    • Create and write Christmas cards to people in nursing homes since they aren’t allowed to have visitors. You could also send them a basket with cookies or games.  

    Click here to view all the Season of Sharing articles.

       

     

  • Winter Fun – BHGRE Season of Sharing

    Winter is coming! These fun activities, delicious recipes, and creative crafts will provide fun for the whole family, all winter long. Enjoy the snowy outdoors and ways to stay warm inside. Remember, there are those in need of assistance, so lend a helping hand. Give back, be it with financial support, energy, or your time. A little gesture goes a long way.  

    Winter Activities  

    These activities are perfect whether you’re celebrating winter indoors or out.  

    • Instead of one giant snowman, make a family of several small snowman. You can have fun naming them and dressing them up as your family or friends. 

    • Have a dance party with this curated list of happy music! Make a night of it by hanging decorations and getting dressed up. For dancing fuel put out yummy snacks and these winter cocktail recipes.  
    • Create your own relaxation station and treat yourself:  
    • Here are some great activities you can do together outside while practicing social distancing.  
      • Build snow creatures and animals. 
      • Meet at the best local hill for sledding. 
      • Ice skate at a local rink.
      • Make snow angels.  
      • Go snowshoeing or hiking.  
      • Build an igloo or snow fort.  

    • Set up virtual craft time with your friends. Have a wine and paint night or schedule a time to tackle a Pinterest project. Everyone will be safe and warm in their own homes but get to catch up while participating in the same activity.  
    • Have a virtual winter party. You can pick a theme beforehand and all dress up in that specific attire. Check out these simple appetizers for your next zoom party.  
    • Game on! Uncover these fun family game night ideas.  
    • There’s snow place like home. Here are 14 ways to make your home warm and welcoming this winter.  

    • Here are a few things you can do to avoid the winter blues.  
      • Look into getting an artificial “sunbox” with special lights designed to mimic the sun’s beneficial rays. We recommend using it first thing in the morning to help maintain your body clock.  
      • Discover how to create a calm work environment at home. There are ways you can improve your surroundings, scents that help with relaxation, and even sounds that have been proven to reduce stress.    
      • Try putting flowers or even fake plants around your home. Looking at plants is proven to boost your mood.  
      • Check out these apps that can help improve your state of mind.  

    Winter Crafts 

    It’s the perfect time to get crafty and let your creative side shine.  

    • Create a winter wonderland in your home! Pick one room to focus on. Hang up sparkling string lights that look like stars. Buy white felt that looks like snow and cover the tables and shelves before you put out décor. Cut snowflakes out of paper and hang them all over the room. Spray pinecones with fake snow paint or splatter it with plain white paint so they look nice and frosted. Place silver and white globes in glass vases. Paint your old candlesticks white and place them on the mantle under a frosted garland.   
    • Make winter themed DIY mason jar snow globes. 
    • On those days it’s way too cold outside here are easy indoor crafts for kids.  
    • Spruce up your front door with this beautiful DIY ombre pinecone wreath.  

    • Below are tons of snowflake craft ideas 
      • No two crafts are the same, here is an assortment of snowflake crafts.  
      • Glue together popsicle sticks in the shape of a snowflake. Once it’s dry paint it white and add silver glitter to make it sparkle. If you don’t have paint, wrap a white string around each stick and make sure no part of the popsicle stick is showing. 
      • For a more natural snowflake, try this DIY natural wood snowflake.  
      • Draw a few snowflakes onto a thick piece of paper and then carefully cut them out using an exacto knife. Attach the snowflakes to an old vase and then paint the entire vase. Once it’s dry, take off the snowflakes. For an extra pop, place a candle inside and watch the light shine through the snowflakes.  
      • Learn how to make perler bead snowflakes. 
    • Get cozy and toasty with this DIY weighted blanket.  
    • Start a new hobby and learn how to crochet.  

    Winter Recipes 

    Fill your winter with scrumptious recipes that can satisfy any craving.  

    Ways to Give Back 

    If you are looking to make a real, lasting difference this winter season, check out these impactful ideas.  

    • It may be cold outside, and those less fortunate may not be able afford heat or warm housing. Make or donate blankets and warm clothing. Items people need this time of year include socks, jackets, mittens, hats, pants, blankets, and scarves.  
    • Shovel snow for those who are unable to do it themselves.   
    • Set up a toy drive and collect toys before the holidays arrive. A small stuffed animal can put a smile on child’s face for years.  
    • Many animals are in need during the cold winter months. You can help by fostering a fury friend or collecting pet supplies to drop off at a shelter.  
    • There is always a need for blood. If you are able, visit a local center and donate. 

     

    Click here to view all the Season of Sharing articles.

       

  • New Year’s Eve – BHGRE Season of Sharing

    2020 has been unique. It has drastically altered our daily routines and lives, but it has also reminded us of what’s important. 2020 led to more people spending time at home with their families. It allowed nature to thrive. It led to people reconnecting with loved ones and old friends they hadn’t spoken too in a long time. Let’s go into the new year with a fresh outlook on life. Let’s go into 2021, focusing on the positive and uncovering ways to we add more good into the world. Whether you want to have a relaxing night in, or celebrate with a few friends, below are activities, crafts, recipes, and ideas on how you can give back. 

    New Year’s Activities 

    Check out these fun New Year’s activities–perfect for a relaxing night in or a small party with friends. 

    • Get decorating with these clever and easy ideas for New Year’s tables.  
    • Here are great tips and tricks for hosting a great NYE party.  
    • Instead of looking at the negative aspects of 2020, sit down and write a list of things you are thankful for from the past year. Think about the things you might not have appreciated or gotten to enjoy if it had gone differently. In 2021, start a gratitude journal. Each night before you go to sleep write down one thing you are thankful for from that day. Keeping a gratitude journal can reduce stress, increase positivity, help you sleep better, and even improve your self-esteem.   
    • If you prefer a romantic night in, take a look at these New Year’s Eve ideas for couples.   
    • Ring in 2021 with a relaxing and cozy night at home.  
    • Get it popping with a few friends with this chic champagne party.  
    • Perfect party games for all!
    • Create a family goal list for the upcoming year. Below is a list of potential things you can add: 
      • Reach out to someone you haven’t spoken to in a long time. 
      • Give back more! Visit www.volunteermatch.org for tons of ways you can virtually help out others.   
      • Spend more time as a family without screens. You can schedule a game night once a month or cook dinner together and each time have a different theme or type of cuisine.  
      • Learn how to do something new. There are tons of virtual and free classes online. 
      • Instead of a weight loss goal, try just having a goal to move around more. Dance in your room for 10 minutes a day or take a walk and enjoy nature.  
    • These New Year’s toasts will leave you feeling inspired and ready to take on the New Year.  

    New Crafts for a New Year  

    Wrap up 2020 with remarkable crafts.  

    • Ring in the New Year with this festive party decor.  
    • Create a centerpiece out of bottles. Find 4 bottles, paint them all black, and place them in a line. Using gold or silver cardstock cut out 2-0-2-1. Glue each number to a stick and then place them in the bottles in order.  
    • Create a family friendly New Year’s bash.  
    • Make your very own countdown clock using a paper plate. Paint the plate whatever color you want and paint numbers around the edge to represent the time. Make a small hole in the center of the plate. Cut two dials with arrows on the end out of cardboard and paint them a different color than the plate so you can see them. Connect the dials to the plate using a pin so the dials can rotate.  
    • End the year on a high note with homemade disco balls, firecracker centerpieces, and more DIY New Year’s Eve crafts.
    • Create personalized party favorites like confetti poppers and more with these New Year’s crafts.

    • Make your own photobooth at home! To construct your own props you’ll need scissors, heavy weight cardstock, a glue gun, and either chopsticks or plain art sticks. To create a backdrop, you can simply use a solid wall or hang up a sheet or curtain. For a more fun background add metallic balloons, hang fun streamers or string lights. The props can be anything you want! Make your own things to cut out or look up free downloadable photo booth prop designs. Use the cardstock and cut out silly mustaches, talking bubbles with funny sayings, or silly hats. After you write what you want in the talking bubbles, add glitter or anything else you want just the glue the end of a stick to the back of the prop. All that’s left is take fun photos you will cherish forever.  

     

    New Year’s Recipes 

    Before the clock strikes 12, make sure you try these delicious food and drink recipes.   

    • These drink recipes will be a hit.  
    • Stir it up with dazzling cocktails.
    • Finger-foods that are as cute as they are delicious.   
    • From sweet-and-sour to cranberry-sauced, these meatball recipes are a must-have.   
    • Check out the following New Year’s Eve party menus and recipes–great for any type of gathering you choose. 
    • Dip pretzel rods into melted white chocolate and then immediately pour silver or gold sprinkles onto the chocolate before it melts. Place the candy-coated pretzel rod onto wax paper, let it dry, and then enjoy! 
    • The best way to end 2020 would be with cakes, truffles, cookies and tons of luscious desserts. 
    • It’s no surprise that this surprise-inside New Year’s Eve cake is not only fun but tastes incredible.  

    Ways to Give Back 

    Start off the New Year by giving back. Discover several ways you can help those less fortunate.  

    • Get stirring! Bringing someone baked goods or food will surly put a smile on someone’s face! Here are several things you could whip up for a neighbor or a hungry family.  
    • Help neighbors with tasks around their home or run errands for them if you are able. People might need help raking leaves, cleaning out their gutters, shoveling snow, or picking up groceries and other items.  
    • Donate clothes and warm weather items! You might have lots of clothing you haven’t warn in years that could benefit many people. If you can purchase items many people will be in need of socks, hats, warm clothing, mittens, and blankets as it starts to get colder outside. 
    • Many parents are trying to work full time while also teaching or monitoring their children, which, to say the least, can be a bit overwhelming. Lend a helping hand by offering tutoring services. This not only helps kids learn but can allow parents to focus on work and other things. Plus, you can do it all virtually!  

  • Kwanzaa – BHGRE Season of Sharing

    Discover great ways to celebrate Kwanzaa this year. Below are activities, recipes, and crafts you can do with the ones you love. Get ready for seven great nights of celebration!  

    Kwanzaa Activities 

    Dance, decorate, and explore with these fun Kwanzaa activities.  

    • It’s time to dance! Look up traditional African dances and learn them together as a family. If you can’t be together in person, set up a virtual party with friends or family and dance together.  
    • Spend time together learning about Kwanzaa history traditions. 
    • Make an unforgettable Kwanzaa tabletop decoration. Place fruit in a basket on the table to represent the beautiful harvest and add a pop of color to the table. Some things you can incorporate to add a mix of texture are straw mats, ears of corn, and of course the zawadi for the last night. Make beaded napkin rings using red, black, and green beads on a wire and simply wrap them around the middle.  
    • Break out some of the zawadi from previous years and play games together as a family. 

    Kwanzaa Crafts 

     Check out fun craft ideas to get you ready for Kwanzaa.  

    • Make a handprint kinara by painting the palm of your left-hand gold, your middle, ring, and little finger red, and your index finger black. Place your hand onto a piece of paper. Then paint the palm of your right-hand hold gold, your middle, ring and little finger green and your index finger black. Place your hand on the paper overlapping the index finger where the other index fingerprint was previously placed. Then dip one of your fingertips into yellow paint and place your print at the top of each candle on the paper to look like they are lit.  
    • Buy air dry clay to shape and make your very own kinara. Mold yellow or brown clay into a rectangle and before it dries use the bottom of candles and push them into the clay so when it dries you can pop the candles in easily.   
    • Make flower vases that will brighten up the table. Take an old glass and cut corn husks to match the height of the glass. Then simply glue the corn husks to the outside of the glass and trim any overlap on the top. Then take a paint brush and paint a red, black, and green stripe around the side. All that’s left is to place beautiful flowers in it!  
    • Learn how to make a clay necklace using traditional Kwanzaa colors.  
    • Create bright and colorful tie-dye items using red, black, and green! 

    Kwanzaa Recipes 

    Here are some delicious recipes that will have your mouth watering.  

    Ways to Give Back 

    Help others and learn how you can make a difference in your local community.  

    • Collect books to donate to those less fortunate.  
    • Create gifts for those who won’t be able to afford their own this year. You can spend time together as a family making beaded jewelry and baskets.   
    • Cook and bake a few of the delicious recipes above and bring the meals to an elderly neighbor.

  • Hanukkah – BHGRE Season of Sharing

    Below are activities, recipes, and crafts you can do with the ones you love this Hanukkah. Tzedakah is also important, so don’t forget to help those in need whether you donate your time, energy, or items. Get ready for eight great nights of celebration!    

    Hanukkah Activities

    The festival of lights is approaching! Here are some fun things you can do to celebrate.  

    • Light the candles as a family. Each night set up a video call so you can celebrate with those near and far. Send out an invite, get dressed up, and share a virtual meal together. 
    • Have a small and cozy Hanukkah party outside. If you have a heater, you can have an outside gathering and still be nice and toasty. Since Hanukkah is the festival of lights, set up candles and string lights and enjoy! If you don’t have a heater, have your gathering during the day so you can feel the warm sunshine. Lay a giant blanket or sheet in the grass and place pillows and blankets in a circle.  

    • Create a new family tradition and do one unique thing each night. Maybe you can build something together and add one piece each night? Perhaps it’s a game where each night you get a new clue.  
    • Click here for beautiful and unique ways to set the Hanukkah table. 
    • After you light the candles have a dance party! Cue the happy music!  
    • Play pin the candle on the menorah.  
    • Spend time together as a family with a game night.
    • Build a menorah out of Legos.  
    • Put on a play about the story of Hanukkah. Another option would be to put on a puppet show. 

    Hanukkah Gift Ideas

    Give a gift that will put a smile on your loved ones faces. This year try giving personal gifts or even making your own gifts for friends and family. 

    • Find a glass jar or cute bag and fill it with your loved one’s favorite things. Some items you can include are their favorite candy, something that will remind them of a moment you shared, your favorite photo of you together, and a list of your five favorite things about them. 
    • Create a customized calendar using photos of their favorite things.  
    • Discover personal and easy crafts with photos your friends and family will appreciate.  
    • We could all use a little relaxation this holiday season. Create a relaxation kit with some of the following: bath salts, candles (with relaxing scents such as ylang ylang, lavender, or lemon), warm string lights, face masks, a soft blanket, tea, or coloring books. You could make your own coupons to include such as “two hours of YOU time” and “breakfast in bed” that they can cash in whenever they want.   
    • Frame a map of somewhere you went on vacation together and pin photos from that trip around the map. 

    • Photo transfers are personal, homemade, and something your loved one will treasure forever. Just pick the photo they would love and follow these photo transfer steps. Here is another how to photo transfer tutorial.  
    • Buy someone an online learning class for something they love. You can find cooking classes, wine tastings, craft classes, acting classes, exercise courses and tons more.  
    • Take drinking glasses up a few notches by etching something personal onto them. All you need is armor etch, an exacto knife, masking tape, and a set of plain beer glasses, cocktail glasses or whichever drinkware they use. One option would be to tape a stencil to the outside of the glass wherever you want the shape or letter to go. Put on gloves, dip a paint brush into the armor etch and apply a coat on the stencil carefully. Let it sit for 2-3 minutes and then wash off the etching cream and peel off the tape and stencil. You can also use the exacto knife to cut out a shape, sports logo, or anything you would like out of thick paper and tape that to the glass. Make sure the paper isn’t so thin the armor etch will go through it, otherwise just follow the same steps above.  
    • Homemade gifts from the heart… and for the stomach. Baking shows you took the time to make your loved ones something tasty. Click here for delicious holiday baking recipes.  

    Hanukkah Crafts 

    Break out the scissors, popsicle sticks, and glue… it’s time to make some Hanukkah crafts.  

    • Create a stained-glass Star of David using 6 popsicle sticks. Glue three popsicle sticks together to make a triangle and then repeat with the other three. Then place them on top of each other and glue them together in the shape of a star. Put some glue in a bowl and mix in water to thin it out. Lay different colored strips of tissue paper over the popsicle sticks and paint the glue mixture on. Let it dry and let the light shine through!  
    • These traditional Hanukkah handcrafts are perfect for decorating. 
    • Since Hannukah is the festival of lights, here is a classy way to shed some light on your eight nights. Take large glass vases and fill them with small string lights and place a few dreidels around it. It will light up and would make a beautiful centerpiece.  
    • Buy air dry clay to shape and make your very own menorah. Mold the clay into any shape you want and before it dries use the bottom of candles and push them into the clay so when it dries you can pop the candles in easily.   
    • Dreidel, Dreidel, Dreidel… make a paper dreidel garland.  
    • Use fabric markers and paint to design your dog their very own Hanukkah bandana.  

    Hanukkah Recipes

    L’Chaim and to delicious food and drinks.  

    • Get your Latke on! Click here for a recipe to make mouthwatering classic potato latkes. Don’t forget to dip them in sour cream and applesauce! 
    • Check out these yummy side dish recipes.  
    • For scrumptious sweets look into these Hanukkah desserts, including dreidel-shaped cakes and traditional treats.  
    • Cheers to Hanukkah themed cocktails.  
    • Marshmallow dreidels anyone? Dip the bottom of a chocolate kiss into melted chocolate and then press it onto a marshmallow. Place it into the fridge for 15 minutes. Then slowly press a pretzel stick into the other end of the marshmallow to serve as the handle. Dip the entire bottom of the dreidel into a bowl of melted chocolate. Fill a plastic bag with melted white chocolate or white icing and pipe the Hebrew letters onto each side. If you want to make it sparkle, before the chocolate fully melts sprinkle some blue sprinkles on the outside.

    Ways to Give Back:  

    This holiday season open your heart and discover several ways you can make a difference.   

    • Since Hanukkah is observed for eight nights, gather one item of clothing or thing you can donate each night. Every night you can add to a donation box and after Hanukkah is over, take it to a donation center.  
    • Tzedakah time! Teach your children the significance of charity. Do something generous. Donate your time or items, listen to someone in need, or reach out to those less fortunate.  
    • Make or donate gifts to those in will not be able to afford their own this year.