Category Archives: Spring

April’s Book Club Picks: Stories to Curl Up With

April is here, bringing us the promise of blooming flowers and the occasional interruption of April showers. What better way to embrace this season of unpredictable weather and tranquil evenings than by getting lost in a good book? Whether you’re cuddled up in your favorite corner on a rainy afternoon or unwinding after a refreshing spring evening walk, these book club picks are sure to keep you company while you’re snug in your coziest pajamas.

1. For the Rainy Days: Immersive Reads to Transport You When the rain is tapping on your window and the sky is wrapped in gray, there’s no better time to curl up with a story that sweeps you away. Consider diving into an enchanting fantasy novel that feels as magical as spring itself—books like The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern or A Discovery of Witches by Deborah Harkness. For those who prefer a dash of suspense, a gripping thriller like The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides will make the rainy hours fly by. Pair these reads with the softest pajamas for maximum coziness, and let the stories take you far from those stormy skies.

2. Spring Evenings: Light and Heartwarming Stories As the days grow longer and the evenings become pleasantly cool, settle into lighter fare that echoes the renewal of the season. Contemporary novels like Beach Read by Emily Henry or The Rosie Project by Graeme Simsion offer humor and romance that feels perfectly suited to the gentle buzz of springtime. These heartwarming tales are ideal companions to a breezy evening spent with a cup of chamomile tea and your favorite comfy loungewear.

3. Keeping Busy with Meaningful Reads For those moments when the April rains keep you indoors for longer stretches, why not keep your mind engaged with a captivating nonfiction book? Titles like Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer or Atomic Habits by James Clear are perfect for learning something new while you relax. Tackling these books can be as fulfilling as planting a garden or mastering a craft, and they’ll keep your thoughts blooming even when the weather isn’t cooperating.

The Perfect Complement to Your Reading Sessions What’s a good book without the perfect cozy setup? Make your reading ritual extra special with plush blankets, a steaming mug of tea, and your go-to pajamas—the softer, the better. Not only do they add to the comfort factor, but they also make the transition from day to night seamless, ensuring you’re ready to fall into bed after a few too many chapters.

April is a time for renewal, and there’s no better way to refresh your mind than by diving into a compelling story. So whether you’re escaping into fantastical worlds, laughing through romantic mishaps, or exploring life’s deeper questions, let your April book club picks inspire moments of joy and relaxation all month long. And yes, pajamas will always be the unsung heroes of your reading adventures.

Seasonal Renewal Rituals: Welcoming Spring with Balance and Intent

Spring is the season of rejuvenation, growth, and balance—a time when nature awakens and invites us to do the same. With longer days and warmer breezes, there’s no better time to create rituals that help you feel aligned, refreshed, and ready to embrace the opportunities of the season ahead. Here are some mindful practices to celebrate spring renewal, paired with the calming comfort of breezy, flowy pajamas.

1. Morning Meditation: Soak in the Spring Light Take advantage of the softer, golden light of spring mornings with a quiet meditation ritual. Find a serene spot near a window or step outside, close your eyes, and focus on your breath. Imagine the fresh energy of spring flowing into you, fueling your creativity and joy. Lightweight and breathable pajamas are perfect for this ritual, allowing you to stay cozy while welcoming the season’s new beginnings.

2. Tea Time: A Moment to Reflect and Renew A spring-inspired tea ritual offers a calming pause in your day. Select floral or herbal blends like chamomile, jasmine, or lavender to symbolize growth and renewal. Pair your tea break with a moment of reflection—what do you want to cultivate this season? Fresh flowers on the table and soft, elegant pajamas can elevate this ritual, creating an atmosphere of peace and intention.

3. The Ritual of a Rejuvenating Bath Spring is the perfect time to shed the layers of winter and embrace renewal through water. A warm, soothing bath with Epsom salts, petals, or aromatic oils can help you feel refreshed and recharged. Let the water wash away lingering stress as you focus on setting intentions for the season. Afterward, slip into airy, flowy pajamas to carry that tranquility into the rest of your day.

4. Daily Gratitude for Seasonal Balance Spring is a season of balance—day and night, work and rest, growth and reflection. Honor this by starting a simple daily gratitude practice. Write down a few things each day that inspire balance or bring you joy. Maybe it’s the scent of blooming flowers or a quiet moment in the sun. Wrap up your evenings in soft pajamas that feel as grounding as this habit.

Spring is a time of transformation and vitality, making it the perfect season for rituals that honor renewal and balance. These small but meaningful practices, coupled with the comfort of your favorite pajamas, can help you welcome spring with open arms and a refreshed spirit. So let the season’s energy inspire you to bloom beautifully, inside and out.

Transitioning Your Sleepwear from Winter to Spring: A Guide to Comfortable Nights and Brighter Mornings

As the winter chill gradually fades away and the first signs of spring emerge, it’s time to bid farewell to those cozy flannel pajamas and embrace sleepwear that’s better suited for the warmer months ahead. Transitioning your sleepwear from winter to spring isn’t just about swapping out fabrics—it’s about ensuring you stay comfortable and cool while getting a restful night’s sleep. Here’s how to make the switch seamlessly:

Opt for Lightweight Fabrics: Say goodbye to thick, heavy fabrics like flannel and fleece, and hello to lightweight materials that allow for breathability and airflow. Cotton, linen, and silk are excellent choices for spring sleepwear, as they’re soft, breathable, and help regulate body temperature, keeping you cool on warmer nights.

Choose Shorter Lengths: Ditch the long-sleeved tops and full-length pants in favor of shorter lengths. Consider opting for short-sleeved tops, tank tops, or camisoles paired with shorts or cropped pants. Not only will this help keep you cooler, but it also allows for more freedom of movement during sleep.

Experiment with Brighter Colors and Prints: Spring is all about embracing brighter colors and playful prints, so why not incorporate them into your sleepwear? Trade in those dark, muted hues for pastel shades, vibrant patterns, or fun floral prints that reflect the spirit of the season. Not only will it add a touch of cheer to your nighttime routine, but it’ll also lift your mood as you prepare for bed.

Layer Up: While the temperatures may be warming up outside, spring evenings can still be cool, especially during the transitional months. Layering lightweight pieces allows you to adjust your sleepwear accordingly, adding or removing layers as needed to stay comfortable throughout the night. Consider keeping a lightweight robe or cardigan nearby for added warmth when temperatures dip.

Invest in Breathable Loungewear Sets: Treat yourself to a new set of breathable loungewear designed specifically for spring. Look for matching sets made from breathable fabrics like cotton or bamboo that strike the perfect balance between comfort and style. Whether you prefer classic pajama sets or cozy loungewear sets, investing in quality sleepwear ensures you’ll look and feel your best as you unwind after a long day.

Prioritize Comfort: Above all, prioritize comfort when transitioning your sleepwear from winter to spring. Pay attention to how different fabrics feel against your skin and choose styles that allow for ease of movement and a relaxed fit. After all, the key to a restful night’s sleep is feeling comfortable and at ease in your sleepwear.

By following these simple tips, you can seamlessly transition your sleepwear from winter to spring, ensuring you stay comfortable and stylish as you prepare for a season of warmer nights and brighter mornings.

How to Celebrate National Best Friends Day

National Best Friends Day on June 8th is the perfect opportunity to show your best friend how much you appreciate and care for them. It’s a day to celebrate the special bond you share and the memories you’ve have already created together and look forward to tons of new adventures.

Whether you’ve been friends for years or just recently met, this day is a great opportunity to show your love for the person who has always been there for you. Here are a few ideas on how to celebrate this special day:

Have a pajama party: Plan a cozy night in with your best friend, complete with matching pajamas and a movie marathon. Snuggle up with your favorite films, indulge in delicious snacks, and enjoy each other’s company in the comfort of your own home. It’s a fun and relaxing way to celebrate your friendship while creating new memories that will make you both smile.

Plan a day trip: Whether it’s hiking, visiting a nearby city, or just going for a drive, spending the day together is a great way to celebrate your friendship. It’s a chance to explore new places, create lasting memories, and deepen the bond you share.

Plan a spa day: Treat yourselves to a day of relaxation and self-care. Whether you visit a spa or create your own spa experience at home, indulge in soothing massages, luxurious bath products, and rejuvenating face masks. It’s a perfect opportunity to unwind, bond, and show your best friend how much they mean to you.

Cook a meal together: Share the joy of cooking by preparing a delicious meal with your best friend. Whether you whip up a favorite dish or embark on a culinary adventure with a new recipe, the process of creating and enjoying a meal together strengthens your bond and creates lasting memories. Plus, you’ll savor the satisfaction of a homemade feast made with love.

Send a thoughtful gift: If you can’t be together on National Best Friends Day, you can still show your appreciation by sending a thoughtful gift. You can send them a card, a bouquet of flowers, or a special gift like a piece of jewelry or a book.

Have a photo shoot: Freeze your precious moments in time with a fun and memorable photo shoot alongside your best friend. Whether you opt for a professional photographer to capture your friendship in stunning frames or take the reins with your own camera, striking poses and capturing candid shots together will preserve your cherished memories forever.

Create a memorable experience: Elevate your Best Friends Day celebration by curating a special experience for your dear friend. Whether it’s a cozy breakfast date with their favorite treats or a spontaneous adventure to a destination they’ve always wanted to visit, infusing your plans with an element of surprise will make the day even more extraordinary.

Above all, Best Friends Day is all about showing appreciation to that special person or people in your life that help make you are today. They are the ones who are always by your side and there for you. so make sure they know how much they mean to you.

Rainy Day Activities: How to Stay Entertained on Dreary April Days

April showers bring May flowers, but they can also bring a lot of indoor time for families. While it’s easy to get bored and stir crazy on rainy days, there are plenty of fun and unique things you can do to pass the time. Here are 6 ideas to help you make the most of April rainy days.

Have a movie marathon. Gather your family and choose a theme for the day, such as a favorite actor or genre. Make some popcorn, grab some blankets, and settle in for a day of watching movies together. To make it even more special, you can create a cozy atmosphere by turning off the lights and lighting some candles.

Get crafty. Rainy days are the perfect time to break out the craft supplies and get creative. Try making homemade Play Dough, painting, or building with Lego’s. Not only is this a fun way to pass the time, but it’s also a great way to stimulate your creativity and relieve stress.

Cook together. Cooking is a great way to bond as a family and make lasting memories. Try a new recipe or bake something sweet. It’s also a great opportunity to teach children about cooking and the importance of healthy eating habits. You can involve everyone in the process by assigning tasks like measuring ingredients or stirring the pot.

Indoor Scavenger Hunt. Create a scavenger hunt for your family to complete inside the house. This can be a great way to get kids moving and exploring, as well as a fun way to spend time together. You can create a list of items for your kids to find or hide clues around the house to solve a mystery.

Game Day. Whether you’re a fan of board games, video games, or card games, this is a great time to spend some quality time together. You can also have a tournament and award the winner with a prize. To make it more interesting, you can create your own games or modify existing ones.

Family Pajama Party. A family pajama party is a fun and unique way to spend a rainy April day. This is a great opportunity to get cozy, spend some quality time together, and make lasting memories. Put on your favorite pajamas, make some hot cocoa, and settle in for a night of games, movies, and stories. To add some excitement, you can have a theme for your pajama party such as animal lovers or food and drink. You can also have a pillow fight or play charades.

Rainy April days don’t have to be a drag. With a little creativity and planning, you can make the most of your indoor time and create lasting memories with your family. These fun and unique ideas will help you to enjoy your time together and make the most of April showers.

How to Spring clean your Closet

Spring cleaning is a great way to refresh your home and start the new season feeling organized and energized. One of the most important areas to focus on during spring cleaning is your closet. Not only will a clean and tidy closet make getting dressed in the morning a breeze, but it will also help you to see what items you have, what it’s time to get rid of, and what you may need to purchase for the upcoming season.

The best way to tackle the task is to do it step by step and we’re here to make the process super simple and painless.

Step 1: Clear everything out

Take everything out of your closet and lay it on your bed or floor. This will give you a clear picture of what you have and what needs to be removed. As you take each item out, ask yourself if you have worn it in the past year, if it’s in good shape, and if it still fits and flatters your body. If the answer is no, it’s time to let it go whether that be in the trash or donated.

Step 2: Sort and organize

Now that everything is out, the next step is to sort and organize your clothes. Begin by grouping items into categories such as tops, bottoms, dresses, and outerwear. Then, take it a step further by organizing each category by color or type, for example, grouping all black tops or shorts together. Don’t forget to extend the same level of organization to your sleepwear, sorting them by type including shorts, pants, nightshirts, and sets. It’s also a great idea to separate your winter flannel pajamas from your lighter, cooler options to make them easier to find when the seasons change. By taking the time to properly sort and organize your clothes, you’ll create a super functional space.

Step 3: Purge

After you’ve sorted and organized your clothes, it’s time to purge. This can be a hard step if you have sentimental attachment to items but the bottom line is if it no longer fits or flatters you, is out of style, or you just don’t wear it, let it go. Be honest with yourself and don’t hang onto anything that is just going to continue taking up space.

Step 4: Re-hang, re-fold and rotate

Now it’s time to reorganize as well as rotate your clothes for the season, and that means it’s important to properly re-hang and re-fold before putting everything away. Use proper hangers that won’t damage the fabric or distort the shape of the garment and fold in a way that prevents too many wrinkles and creases from forming. If you have limited closet space, investing in storage solutions such as a hanging organizer or shelf dividers can help maximize your storage space.

Step 5: Say Goodbye

Lastly, don’t let your donated items become a permanent fixture in your home – take them to the donation center right away! Remember, out of sight, out of mind (and out of the closet)! If you wait too long to donate, you might end up digging through the bags (been there, done that) and having a change of heart about those old bell-bottoms.

Step 6: Reward yourself with New Spring Pajamas!

Happy Cleaning!

Throwing the Ultimate Kentucky Derby Party

It’s Kentucky Derby time again and this year looks like we’re going to see things go back to the grand event it was pre-pandemic. That means it’s time to go all-out with the food, drinks, decorations, and attire.

If you’re a Derby fanatic and are planning to host an event this year we’ve got some fun ideas you can incorporate into your party that you may not have thought of.

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The Food. Have you ever heard of a ‘Hot Brown Sandwich’? This tasty dish has been a Kentucky Tradition since first created in 1926 by the chef at Louisville’s Brown Hotel. It’s an open-faced sandwich made and the original recipe was made with toast, turkey, tomatoes, and cheese. There are a variety of versions available online so do a quick search and find the one that would best suit your guests. Don’t forget the Derby pie!

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The Drink. The race may only last about 2 minutes but the cocktails you make for the gang will keep you in high spirits all day long. Of course, the Mint Julep is typically the star of the party but that doesn’t mean you can’t bring other libations into the mix. Consider the ‘Oaks Lily’ – made with vodka, the ‘Jockey Club’ which is the cousin of the Manhattan, or the ‘Horses Neck’ made with only 2 ingredients. Don’t forget to have a variety of non-alcoholic beverages on hand for your guests that don’t drink.

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The Attire. When it comes to getting dressed for the derby you can really use your imagination and have some fun with it. How about a pajama theme? Get dressed in your colorful and bright PJs (instead of fancy dresses and suits), but top the outfit off with fancy hats. Not only will your event be a unique experience for your guests, but they’ll be comfortable as can be enjoying the race.

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The Betting. No Derby party is complete without some friendly wagering between friends. There are many different ways you can place your bets and because a scratch can always happen a short time before the race, you’ll want to do your research on how to handle your betting based on the number of people at your party and also what you think they would be willing to wager. Don’t make it something they’ll think is too expensive or too difficult to figure out. This website offers several different options.

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The Games. Since you’ll want your party to last longer than the 2 minutes the race is on, you’re going to want your guests to be entertained the rest of the time. Games like Derby Bingo, ring toss, horseshoes, and pin the tail on the horse will keep everyone laughing and engaged with one another.

However you do Derby Day, we hope you’ll make it an event to remember and one they’ll talk about for years to come. We’d love to see your pictures. Share them over on our Facebook page with the rest of our pajama community!

 

Hello Spring! It’s time to come out of hibernation.

There’s just something about spring that lifts our spirits as we say goodbye to gray winter days and hello to blooms, blossoms, and all things green. With longer days, warmer weather, and increased activity all around, our moods naturally improve and we look forward to what’s ahead.

While Mother Nature is doing her thing outside, it’s the perfect time for us to get a jump-start on the season and think about how we can also refresh. Here are some things you can do now to spring into spring.

Spring cleaning. On warmer days, open your windows and air out the house to get rid of that winter stuffiness. And once you have that old air out it’s time for a deep clean including behind the furniture and into all those cracks and crevices. It’s a lot of work but the outcome will give you that satisfying feeling of freshness and renewal.

Refresh yourself. Winter can be harsh on our skin and hair so consider getting a facial and a deep conditioning hair treatment. Spring is also the perfect time to try a new hairstyle. If all these things aren’t in your budget, give yourself a spa day at home. There are plenty of products you can purchase for much lower prices than what professionals charge that will give you close to the same results.

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Switch out your wardrobe. Put away those bulky sweaters, winter coats, hats, scarves, and mittens. It’s time to get out the fun florals and lightweight clothing and it’s always nice to add a few new items to your wardrobe. And don’t forget you need new spring pajamas too!

Car Detail

Get your car detailed. All the salt, sand, dirt, and other icky things that come with winter have taken up residence inside your car. Find a local business that does detailing on vehicles and give your car a little love. There’s nothing better than getting into a freshly detailed vehicle.

Don’t forget the pets. Your furry friend had a long winter as well and they would love a little pampering. A bath and a haircut (for long-haired animals) give them that spring in their step and they will be oh so thankful as the warm weather comes around.

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Clean up outside. Your yard is likely full of things that weren’t there in the fall. Get the whole family together and make a game of cleaning it up. Try contests like whoever fills a bucket 1st, picks up the most sticks, or spots the 1st butterfly wins a prize. If you make yard clean-up fun, it will get done a lot faster.

Spring Walk

Take walks. When the weather is crummy we tend to just stay indoors and hide. With warmer days here, you have no excuses. Get out and walk. Enjoy the sun on your face, the fresh air in your lungs, and take in the transformations going on around you.

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Prep outdoor needs. This is the best time to get a tune-up on your lawnmower, make sure your batteries are charged, the patio furniture is clean, and your barbecue grill is ready to go. It won’t be long till the weather is consistently beautiful so prepare in advance and you won’t be rushing around when you want to enjoy your backyard.

Plan Summer

Think ahead to summer. Even though we’re barely into spring, summer will be here before you know it so think about planning your vacations, kid’s activities, and other details for when school gets out now.
Do you have a routine that you follow when spring arrives? Share it with us below or tell our community on our Facebook page!

Start planning now to manage the end of the school year

The last few crazy weeks of the school year are here and there’s lots to do which can make for some hectic times. With so much to look forward to this summer, it’s best to take a deep breath and get organized now so you can coast into vacation time stress-free.

These tips will help get you on track and focused even before the final tests have been taken and the kid’s lockers have been cleaned out.

Spring Fever

Manage Spring Fever. The weather is getting nicer and the end of the school year is near which can make for antsy, distracted kids. Keep them focused on finishing the year strong by sticking to routines and reinforcing the fact that they only have a few short weeks left. Encourage children to make an extra effort with praise or even a small reward for a job well done.

Babysitter

Organize for Child Care. If you will need to rely on child care this summer now is a good time to start planning. Make a list of important things the babysitter will need to know like allergies, dietary restrictions, emergency phone numbers, and your doctor’s contact information. It’s always a great idea to tell your neighbors about your child care arrangements so they can be an extra set of eyes. Make sure your child care provider knows what your kids like to do for fun so that they can plan fun activities and outings as well.

Camp

Consider Summer Camp. With so many types of summer camps available there is sure to be something that would be perfect for your child. Once you determine which camp they will attend, find out what supplies they will need and what will need to be packed. Preparing in advance will save a whole bunch of last-minute scrambling stress.

Summer Job

 Research Summer Job Options for Teens. Kids don’t have to spend the whole summer working but a part-time job can be invaluable to preparing young adults for real-world experiences. A great idea is to make a deal where they can have a percentage of their earnings to spend on themselves while putting the rest aside for their future. Businesses are hiring like never before and there are jobs available in every industry. Give them some options and help them fill out applications so they can land a job they will enjoy.

Report Card

Know Where your Kid’s Grades Currently Stand. Don’t wait for final report cards to find out how they are doing in school. Being tuned in to where your kids stand academically now can allow you to help them focus on the areas they may need additional work on, as well as determine if a tutor may need to be hired during the summer to help them strengthen the weaker areas.

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Prepare for Goodbyes. Even with the excitement of summer vacation, there can be some anxiety for children who have to say goodbye to friends and mentors for a few months. Teachers worked extra hard this year and had several challenges to overcome. Have your child write them a thank you note showing appreciation for all they do and communicate to them that they’d like to stay in touch. To stay connected with friends, create a chat room where parents can coordinate summer get-togethers over the summer so everyone can see each other.

Plan Ahead

Think about next year. Yes, it’s a good idea to start planning the next school year now especially if there will be changes like moving to a new building or going back to in-person learning from virtual. Gather information so you can use the summer break to pre-prepare. When mid-August hits, you’ll be happy you did.

How do you prepare for summer break? Share with us here or on our Facebook page!

Rainy April days just got a little better

We’ve all heard the saying April showers bring May flowers, but while we wait patiently for those spring blooms to brighten the landscape we still have to deal with some dreary rainy days in April.

So what should one do while standing by for better weather to enjoy the great outdoors? Well, we could give typical ideas like baking chocolate chip cookies or having a movie marathon, but we’d like to give you some inspiration instead. Are there things you have been putting off, or have always wanted to do but never found the time? Take advantage of the inclement April weather to tackle those things that aren’t in your normal routine. We’ve got some great ideas that we have on our to-do/wanna-do list that might help push you in the right direction.

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Organize family photo albums. Most of us still have boxes of pictures stashed away from times past. Before the days of mobile devices, Instagram, and digital picture frames, we used cameras and film to capture life events. Even with all the amazing technological advances, there truly is nothing better and being able to flip through a real photo album full of precious memories. Here’s your chance to get everything together, organize your pictures, and put together a family keepsake that you can pass down to future generations.

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Make old connections. How many times have you thought “I should reach out to this person”, or “I haven’t spoken to this person in ages?” A rainy day is the perfect time to make those connections. Whether you reach out through social media, a phone call, email, or sit down and write an old-fashioned letter, it’s great to catch up with the people you don’t speak to regularly or should speak to more often. You never know whose day you’ll make with a simple “hello.

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Learn something new. If you’ve always wanted to learn a second language or become better at something technology-wise, rainy days cooped up in the house are the perfect opportunity to do just that. You can find anything online. From courses to how-to videos, it’s out there. Want to learn how to make candles or play an instrument? There is a world of information at your fingertips. You just have to look for it.

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Stay in bed all day. This may not seem like a productive suggestion but, a solid day of rest can make a world of difference in your attitude, stress level, emotions, and overall well-being. Of course you don’t have to sleep all day. You can read, watch TV, or just lay there and listen to raindrops hit the roof all while in your favorite comfy pajamas. These are our Rainy Day favorites.

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If you love a loud thunderstorm there’s no better place to hear the rumbles than snuggled up in bed.

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Rearrange your furniture. Maybe you’ve been thinking for quite some time that the couch would look better on the other side of the room or that the dresser just doesn’t look good in the space that it’s in. Now’s your chance to experiment. What’s the worst that could happen? You put it back the way it was.

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Organize family recipes. If you’ve got recipes that have been handed down through the generations, organizing them in a well-thought-out way will assure that your favorite meals will be prepared for years to come. Whether you use a recipe box, recipe book, or even some form of digital method, you’ll rest easier knowing that grandma’s famous apple pie recipe won’t be lost.

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Make bagels. You bake cookies, cakes, and pies all the time but have you ever made your own bagels? Maybe you’ve thought about it but changed your mind when you found out how much time was involved. We found an answer! This delicious 3 ingredient bagel recipe is a great way to start what could possibly be your new favorite baking routine.

Here at The Pajama Company, we love a rainy day as a day with lots of possibilities! Do you love rainy days? Share your rainy day favorite things on our facebook page.