Category Archives: The Holidays

Reflecting on the Cozy Chapters of 2023: A Year in Pajamas

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As we wave goodbye to another year, let’s take a stroll down memory lane and revisit the cozy, warm, and downright stylish moments that defined our 2023. Picture this as a casual chat, a reflection on the past 12 months filled with simple comforts, unexpected adventures, and a dash of personal flair.

In a world that’s always changing, the concept of “comfort” has taken on new meanings for all of us. Whether it’s adapting to the work-from-home life, giving our living spaces a makeover, or strengthening connections with loved ones, comfort has become a guiding force in our daily routines. And let’s not forget the unsung hero of relaxation – our trusty pajamas!

These pajamas of ours have become more than just sleepwear; they’ve become companions in the theater of our lives. They’ve seen the tranquility of quiet mornings, starred in spontaneous dance parties, and provided the perfect attire for those unexpected video calls. As the seasons shifted, so did our pajama preferences – from light and breezy sets for summer nights to cozy flannels that cocooned us in warmth as winter settled in.

So, sit back and take a moment to relive the coziest snippets of the past year, exploring the chapters that left imprints of comfort, joy, and personal style. Dive into the evolution of your favorite pajama styles, each thread woven into the fabric of your daily life. From the cherished memories created while rocking your coziest ensembles to the little moments that brought a smile to your face, let’s celebrate a year that was truly well-lived in comfort.

Here’s to the coziest memories, the warmest moments, and the stylish pajamas that were there through it all. As we say goodbye to 2023, may you wrap yourself in the snug embrace of nostalgia, with a promise of more cozy adventures in the chapters yet to be written.

Looking ahead to 2024, our journey continues, and we’re determined to make it even cozier. As we set our goals, prioritize self-care, and look forward to creating new memories, let’s carry the warmth of 2023 into the upcoming chapters. Here’s to a year filled with comfort, joy, and the coziest of moments. Wishing you a snug and stylish farewell to the year gone by and a warm welcome to 2024!

Mindful Moments: Finding Peace in the Chaos of the Holiday Season

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In the whirlwind of holiday festivities, take a moment to step into tranquility. Explore mindfulness practices that promise serenity amidst the seasonal chaos, grounding yourself in the present moment. As the holiday season unfolds, discover the power of simple yet impactful techniques to infuse your home with a profound sense of calm.

And as you embark on this mindful journey, consider donning your coziest pajamas. Let the soft embrace of comfort be your initial guide in navigating the season with ease. Whether it’s the warmth of familiar fabrics or the soothing feel against your skin, your favorite pajamas will be the perfect companion in this pursuit of holiday serenity.

Breathe in, Breathe Out: Amidst the hustle and bustle, take a moment to reconnect with your breath. Inhale deeply, allowing the air to fill your lungs, and exhale slowly, releasing any tension. Repeat this mindful breathing exercise to center yourself and invite a sense of peace.

Create a Tranquil Space: Designate a serene corner in your home where you can retreat when the holiday frenzy becomes overwhelming. Filled with calming elements—soft cushions, flickering candles, or a touch of nature—this oasis will serve as a reminder to pause, breathe, and find solace. Wrapped in the gentle comfort of your cherished pajamas, let this space become your sanctuary for tranquility.

Mindful Appreciation: Amidst the chaos, consciously appreciate the beauty around you. Whether it’s the twinkling holiday lights, the warmth of a cozy blanket, or the laughter of loved ones, take a moment to savor these simple pleasures. Mindful appreciation enhances gratitude, fostering a positive and peaceful mindset.

Digital Detox Moments: In a world buzzing with notifications, grant yourself moments of digital detox. Silence your devices, disconnect from the virtual noise, and relish the simplicity of real-time connections. Engage in meaningful conversations, create memories, and be present with those around you.

Rituals of Relaxation: Establish rituals that promote relaxation and mindfulness. Whether it’s sipping a cup of herbal tea, indulging in a few pages of a favorite book, or practicing gentle stretches, these rituals create pockets of calm within the holiday storm. As you embrace these rituals, let the soft textures of your chosen pajamas enhance the overall sense of relaxation and comfort, allowing you to unwind in style.

Gratitude Journaling: End your day by jotting down a few things you are grateful for. Reflecting on positive moments fosters a mindset of gratitude, redirecting your focus from the chaos to the blessings that surround you.

As you navigate the bustling holiday schedule, let mindfulness be your guide to tranquility. These simple practices invite peace into your mind and home, creating a harmonious atmosphere amidst the festive chaos. Embrace the beauty of mindful moments, savor the present, and find peace in every breath.

Infuse Your Home with Joy: DIY Holiday Potpourri

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Transforming your home into a winter wonderland of comforting scents is not only a treat for yourself but also the perfect gift for loved ones when you pair these delightful DIY holiday potpourri recipes with the coziest pajamas. So, slip into your favorite loungewear, grab a cup of something warm, and let’s embark on a journey to create a tranquil atmosphere and radiates warmth and relaxation that captures the essence of the holidays.

1. Festive Citrus Delight: Combine dried orange slices, cinnamon sticks, and cloves for a citrusy blend that evokes memories of cozy evenings by the fireplace. The vibrant orange hues complement the holiday decorations, creating a cheerful and uplifting atmosphere.

2. Winter Woods Serenity: Capture the essence of a winter forest by mixing pine cones, cedar twigs, and a dash of nutmeg. This woodsy potpourri brings the outdoors in, offering a sense of serenity and calmness that is perfect for unwinding after a busy day of holiday preparations.

3. Spiced Apple Bliss: Embrace the comforting aroma of spiced apples by combining dried apple slices, cinnamon, anise stars, cloves, and a hint of vanilla. This sweet and spicy blend not only fills your home with a delicious fragrance but also invites a sense of relaxation, making it the ideal accompaniment for a cozy evening in your favorite pajamas.

4. Gingerbread Indulgence: Transport yourself to a festive bakery with a potpourri that smells just like gingerbread cookies, use dried oranges, cloves, anise, cinnamon, and a touch of nutmeg. The rich, sweet scent is a delightful treat for the senses, bringing a feeling of indulgence and warmth to your holiday home. A great extra touch when gifting is to include a cookie cutter!

5. Cranberry Cheers: Craft a potpourri of dried cranberries, rosemary, and a hint of orange peel for a tart and refreshing aroma. This combination not only adds a pop of festive color to your space but also invigorates the senses, creating an atmosphere of holiday cheer.

How to Create and Use Your Holiday Potpourri:

  • Gather Your Ingredients: Collect a variety of dried fruits, spices, and herbs that match your desired scent profile.
  • Combine and Customize: Experiment with different combinations until you find the perfect blend. Adjust the quantities to suit your preferences for each fragrance note.
  • Assemble and Display: Place your chosen ingredients in a decorative bowl or pouch. Arrange strategically in different areas of your home, such as the living room, bedroom, or even by your bedside, for a continuous waft of holiday goodness. For more intense scent, all of these recipes can also be simmered on the stovetop or potpourri burner.
  • Gift-Worthy Presentation: If gifting these aromatic wonders, elevate their charm by packaging them in festive jars adorned with a velvet ribbon or placing them in decorative pouches tied with a bow. Add a personalized touch with a handwritten note, and just like that your beautiful potpourri becomes a heartwarming gift that embodies the spirit of the season.
  • Refresh as Needed: Revitalize the fragrance by gently stirring the potpourri or adding a drop or two of essential oils to enhance the aroma throughout the season.

Delight in the art of crafting a festive and tranquil ambiance in your home. Feel free to explore and experiment with unique scents and creative ideas. The enchanting aroma will captivate your senses, and those who receive these delightful creations as gifts will truly appreciate the thoughtfulness behind this uniquely special present.

Wrap Up Warmth with our Cozy Holiday Gift Guide!

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The holiday season is here, and what better way to spread the warm fuzzies than with gifts that bring the coziness level to an all-time high? We’ve rounded up a bunch of fantastic finds for everyone on your list. From comfy flannel pajama pants to matching family PJ sets, get ready to sleigh the gift game this year!

Pajama Picks for All Ages: Discover the magic of giving the gift of cozy with snuggly PJs that elevate bedtime to the highlight of the night! Dive into a world of cool and comfy pajama sets for adults, kids, and those tricky-to-shop-for teens. From classic patterns to whimsical designs, there’s a perfect pair for every personality. Because who doesn’t appreciate the joy of slipping into a fresh set of PJs? It’s like gifting a nightly celebration of comfort to everyone on your list!

Robes- Because Everyone Deserves a Little Luxury: Treat your loved ones to a touch of luxury with cozy robes that feel like a warm hug. Whether it’s a plush fleece number, a silky satin wrap, or a robe with a hood for that extra touch of snuggle, these robes are perfect for lazy Sunday mornings, post-shower bliss, and impromptu dance parties in the living room.

Flannel Pants for the Win: Know someone who practically lives in their PJs? Gift them the ultimate in chill attire – flannel pajama pants! Perfect for students pulling all-nighters, cozying up with a good book, or anyone who just loves a good lounge, these pants are as stylish as they are snug. With patterns ranging from classic plaids to funky prints, they’re a must-have for the fashion-forward comfort seeker.

Guys Can Be Comfy Too: Make the dudes in your life happy with pajamas that bring both style and comfort to the table. From classic sets to laid-back lounge pants, these picks are perfect for the man who knows the importance of downtime. With breathable fabrics and designs that transition seamlessly from couch to coffee shop, he’ll be looking good and feeling great.

Don’t Forget your Furry Friends: Pamper your precious pups with cozy doggy pajamas because, let’s be honest, there’s nothing quite as charming as a dog in a snug set of PJs. These adorable outfits not only add a touch of festive flair but also keep your furry friends warm during winter cuddle sessions. With various sizes and styles available, you can ensure your dogs are as stylishly cozy as their human counterparts. It’s a delightful way to share the warmth and joy of the season with your beloved fur babies!

Matching Magic with Family Pajama Sets: Create Insta-worthy family moments with matching PJs for the whole crew. From cute prints to holiday-themed designs, these sets are perfect for cozy movie nights and capturing those precious memories. With options for every family member, you can turn bedtime into a festive celebration that brings everyone together.

Sock-It to them with Cozy Toes for Every Mood: Step up your gifting game with a dash of warmth for their feet! Explore our collection of fun and fuzzy socks that make the perfect stocking stuffer or standalone gift. From festive holiday prints to quirky patterns, these socks are designed to suit every mood and occasion. Treat your loved ones to the joy of toasty toes, because a great day starts with cozy feet!

Snuggle-Approved Extras- Pillows and Blankets Galore: Spruce up their space with extra snuggle-worthy gifts like decorative pillows and blankets. Whether it’s a festive cushion that adds a pop of holiday cheer to their sofa or a cozy throw that’s perfect for chilly nights, these accessories add a touch of warmth to any home. Plus, they make lounging on the couch feel like a luxurious escape.

There you have it – a fun and fabulous holiday gift guide that’s all about spreading warmth and joy! Click away and discover the perfect presents for everyone on your list. ‘Tis the season to be cozy, after all!

Thanksgiving Morning Bliss: Pajama Edition

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Ah, Thanksgiving morning—a time of warmth, gratitude, and the delicious anticipation of a feast to come. What better way to embrace the spirit of the holiday than by starting the day in the coziest fashion possible: in your favorite pajamas? Let’s explore the simple joys of Thanksgiving morning bliss, all while wrapped in the comfort of your most cherished sleepwear.

Rise and Shine in Comfort – As the sun begins to cast its gentle glow on Thanksgiving morning, there’s a unique sense of anticipation in the air. Waking up on this special day, you can’t help but feel a little extra coziness under the softness of your favorite blanket. It’s a moment to relish, to take a deep breath, and appreciate the comfort of being surrounded by warmth and the promise of a wonderful day ahead—all while still in your pajamas.

Sipping Serenity: Hot Cocoa and More – With the morning chill outside, there’s nothing quite like sipping on a steaming cup of hot cocoa or indulging in the seasonal flavors of pumpkin spice coffee. Imagine yourself curled up on the couch, wrapped in the familiar softness of your pajamas, as you savor each sip. The rich, comforting flavors add to the overall warmth of the day, creating a perfect start to your Thanksgiving morning.

Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade Extravaganza – No Thanksgiving morning is complete without the iconic Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Instead of braving the cold streets of New York City, revel in the magic of the parade from the comfort of your living room. Picture yourself nestled on the sofa in your coziest pajamas, watching favorite floats and giant balloons pass by on the television screen. It’s a tradition that marks the official kick-off to the holiday season and sets a festive tone for the day.

Preparing for the Feast: Pajama-Clad Kitchen Adventures – With the delightful aroma of Thanksgiving dishes filling the air, step into the heart of the home—the kitchen. Embrace the unique experience of preparing your favorite holiday recipes, all while wearing your favorite pajamas. Whether you’re whipping up a special breakfast treat or overseeing the turkey’s slow roasting, the joy of being both stylishly comfortable and productive in the kitchen is an essential part of the Thanksgiving morning bliss.

Pajama-Clad Gratitude Journal: A Family Tradition – This year, consider adding a new tradition to your Thanksgiving morning routine—the pajama-clad gratitude journal. Gather the family in their comfiest sleepwear and take a moment to reflect on the blessings of the past year. Encourage each family member to jot down what they’re thankful for, creating a heartwarming keepsake filled with memories and expressions of gratitude. It’s a simple yet powerful way to connect with loved ones and celebrate the true spirit of Thanksgiving.

Start a delightful tradition that adds an extra layer of warmth to an already heartwarming day. Whether you’re sipping a comforting drink, enjoying the parade, or simply relishing the quiet moments before the festivities begin, being wrapped in the soft embrace of your favorite sleepwear sets the tone for a day filled with gratitude and joy. So, this Thanksgiving, embrace the Pajama Edition of morning bliss and start your day in comfort and style. Happy Thanksgiving!

8 Fun Activities to Celebrate National Family Pajama Day

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National Family Pajama Day is almost here, happening on November 14th. It’s that delightful day when you and your loved ones can don matching PJs and enjoy a fun-filled day together. So, roll out of bed, put on your coziest sleepwear, and make this day extra special with these relaxed and enjoyable activities.

1. Christmas Card Photo Shoot: Start your pajama-clad day by creating lasting memories. Gather your family and set up a DIY photoshoot. Put on your favorite holiday-themed pajamas and snap some heartwarming family pictures. These images will make the perfect addition to your annual Christmas cards, ensuring that your friends and family receive warm and festive greetings.

2. Breakfast in Bed: Begin your day of comfort with a hint of indulgence. Treat your family to a luxurious breakfast in bed. Everyone can choose their favorite morning treats – from fluffy pancakes to crispy bacon. Enjoy a leisurely morning in your pajamas, as you savor these delightful moments.

3. Movie Marathon: For a truly relaxed National Family Pajama Day, set up a movie marathon. Choose some of your family’s favorite films or TV series, make a giant bowl of popcorn, warn up some hot chocolate, and prepare for hours of cozy entertainment. Your matching pajamas will provide the perfect attire for this cinematic bonding experience.

4. Living Room Campout: Transform your living room into a cozy campsite. Gather blankets, pillows, and sleeping bags to create makeshift tents and forts. Share ghost stories, enjoy indoor s’mores (made in the microwave, of course), and let your family’s imagination run wild. It’s a unique opportunity to enjoy the camping experience while staying warm and bug-free in your pajamas.

5. Pajama Fashion Show: Channel your inner supermodel on this special day. Host a pajama fashion show where each family member gets to strut their stuff on the catwalk (or in your case, the living room). Encourage creativity and silliness by wearing your pajamas in the most stylish way possible. You’ll share a lot of laughter and create unforgettable memories.

6. DIY Spa Day: Make National Family Pajama Day a day of relaxation. Set up a DIY spa experience for the family. In your comfy PJs, take turns giving foot massages, applying face masks, and simply unwinding together. Share stories and create an atmosphere of tranquility and closeness.

7. Pajama Baking Challenge: Move the baking session to the next level with a pajama-clad baking challenge. Each family member can choose a baking project, and, in the spirit of competition, aim to create the most delicious treats. Taste-testing is, of course, an essential part of the challenge.

8. Bedtime Story Exchange: As the day comes to a close, savor a moment of togetherness. Host a bedtime story exchange where each member selects their favorite book or story to read aloud. Sharing stories and quality time before bedtime ensures a peaceful and heartwarming end to your National Family Pajama Day.

This November 14th, embrace the snugness of your favorite pajamas and celebrate National Family Pajama Day with these easygoing activities. Snap some photos along the way to capture the warmth and joy of this delightful day with your loved ones. Whether it’s the cozy moments spent together or the playful activities you engage in, National Family Pajama Day is a time to create lasting memories and strengthen your bonds with your family. So, put on those PJs, relax, and enjoy every moment.

How to Throw a New Year’s Eve Pajama Party

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It’s hard to believe 2023 is right around the corner.  But hold on – we can’t say goodbye to 2022 without a New Year’s Eve celebration.  And, while New Year’s Eve is one of the most popular nights to go out on the town and celebrate, more and more people are avoiding the crowds and staying home to ring in the new year. So why not celebrate in the comfort of your own home – and even better, with a New Year’s Eve Pajama Party?

Make it a small family celebration or invite friends and neighbors to join you. They will love this creative and fun way of celebrating the New Year. Here’s what you’ll need:

The Guest List

Whether you keep the party to just your family or invite other families and friends to join in, the guest list will determine how the rest of the night will be run and how many people to prepare for. If you’re thinking of throwing a family-friendly party, it’s a great excuse to wear those matching family pajamas one more time or to purchase a set.

If you’re inviting other families, you’ll want to keep track of the number of adults and the number of kids coming to make sure you can accommodate everyone.

Guest List

 

The Invitation

Once you have your guest list complete, it’s time to create the invitation. It’s important to include not only the date, start and end time, and your address, but to also make it clear that this is a pajama party and give your guests an idea of what they can expect.  Your main goal is to ring in the new year which means staying up later than normal for most of us. Keep it cozy and invite your friends to wear pajamas that they can relax and stay comfy in – especially if kids are coming. If you have a certain theme you’re going for, make sure to include that in the invitation as well.

You’ll also want to let your guests know if they should bring anything.  This is especially important if you’re inviting your guests to stay overnight. Don’t forget to let them know how they can RSVP to the party and the deadline date to do so.

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The Decorations

The sky’s the limit! Remember that New Year’s Eve is a celebration so consider leaving up some of your holiday lights to keep the sparkle alive. This is also where you can add some glitz and glam to your otherwise comfy party. Add some signs, festive table cloths, and party favors and you’re ready to go!

Party Food

The Menu

Keep it simple and make sure whatever you are serving is easily accessible to your guest.  Prepare food that goes along with your cozy pajama theme like lasagna, mac & cheese, pizza, or chili. Or go for serving heavy appetizers so that guests can graze all night. Be sure to also have healthy options available for those who prefer to eat a bit lighter and have snacks available throughout the night.

Set up a self-serve beverage area with both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages available. You’ll want to have several non-alcoholic options – not only for the kiddos, but for those who will be driving home after the party if they are not staying overnight.

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The Activities

As the goal of the celebration is to make it to midnight – it could be a long night.  Make a list of activities you can do throughout the night. Bring out the board games, card games, play charades or Pictionary or consider getting a karaoke machine. Depending on the guest list, you will want to have both adult themed games as well as children’s activities on hand.  Having plenty of things for the kids to do will also give the grown-ups a chance to have some time to hang out and socialize.

toast

 

 

The New Year’s Toast

You’ve made it to midnight and it’s time for the toast.  Set up a table with champagne and sparkling cider filled glasses and have your party favors close by.  This will make it easy for everyone to grab a glass and Toast to the New Year.

Your New Year’s Eve Pajama party is sure to be a hit.  Get creative and enjoy the festivities in the comfort of your own home  – and of course your pajamas.

6 Holiday beverages that are sure to please

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Whether you’re expecting a full house for the holidays or enjoying a quiet evening at home snuggled in your favorite pajamas, these warm and cozy drinks are sure to be enjoyed by all this holiday season.

 

Mulled Wine

Mulled Wine – Serves 4-5

Mulled wine is a drink enjoyed all over the world. It’s the perfect drink to keep you warm this holiday season.

1 bottle moderately-priced dry red wine

¼ cup orange liquor or brandy

1 orange – sliced into rounds

5 cloves, whole

2-3 cinnamon sticks

2 star anise

2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup – add more or less to taste.

Combine all ingredients in a medium pot and stir. Heat to just below a simmer on medium heat. Do not boil. Reduce to low, cover and simmer for 30 minutes, or for a fuller flavor cook for up to three hours. Strain and keep liquid only.  Serve warm and garnish with orange slices or cinnamon sticks.

 

Irish Coffee

Traditional Irish Coffee – Individual Serving

You don’t have to be from Ireland to enjoy this classic winter favorite.

4 ounces hot coffee – regular or decaf.

1 ½ teaspoons packed brown sugar – use more or less to taste

1 ½ ounces Irish Whiskey – use a quality brand for the best flavor

1 ounce heavy cream – whipped

Pour the coffee into a mug or heatproof glass.  Add the brown sugar to the coffee and stir until dissolved.  Add Irish Whisky and stir again. Slowly top with the fresh whipped cream letting the cream float on top of the coffee mixture. For the best flavor and experience don’t stir the cream into the drink – drink the coffee through the cream – Delicious!

 

Choc Mint Kiss

Chocolate Peppermint Kiss – Individual Serving

This drink is the perfect mixture of soothing chocolate and refreshing peppermint – and it’s so simple to make.

6 ounces of prepared hot chocolate

1 ounce Crème de Cacao

1 ounce White Crème de Mint

1 ounce Heavy Cream – Whipped

Chocolate kisses and crushed peppermints for garnish.

Prepare your favorite hot chocolate in a mug or heatproof glass.  Stir in Crème de Cacao and White Crème de Minte.  Top with Fresh Whipped Cream and Garnish with a chocolate kiss and crushed peppermints.

 

Hot Cider

Hot Apple Cider* – Serves 5-6

Not only does this hot apple cider taste great – it’s a great way to bring out the warm aromas of the holiday season.

½ gallon fresh apple cider

½ cup whiskey, apple brandy or cinnamon whiskey

¼ cup brown sugar

1 orange – sliced in rounds

2 cinnamon sticks – add additional cinnamon sticks for garnish

Combine all ingredients into a slow cooker and cover. Bring to a simmer on low heat and cook for 3 – 4 hours.  Stir occasionally. Reduce heat to warm when ready to serve and garnish.

 

English Cider

English Cider* – Serves 4

You’ll love this twist on the traditional Hot Apple Cider!

½ gallon fresh apple cider

6 tea bags – English Breakfast or Earl Gray

2 ounces brandy

2 ounces dark rum

1 – 2 Lemons – sliced in rounds

¼ cup honey – add more or less to taste

In a medium pot, bring apple cider to a simmer.  Simmer for 45 minutes and let apple cider reduce. Remove cider from heat and add the tea bags, brandy, dark rum, lemon and honey.  Let seep for 5 minutes.  Remove tea bags and serve warm with a garnish of lemon.

 

Snow Angel

Snow Angel* – Makes 2 Servings

This creamy heavenly drink is the perfect treat to enjoy after dinner.  You’ll have a hard time having just one.

2 tablespoons white chocolate chips

2 tablespoons caramel sauce

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

1 cup milk – use 1% or 2%

2-4 ounces Baileys Irish Cream

1 cup mini marshmallows

In a small pot combine the first 4 ingredients. Heat on low to simmer, continuously stirring until chocolate chips are melted. Remove from heat and stir in Baileys.  Pour in mug and top with mini marshmallows, and caramel drizzle.

Don’t drink alcohol? Make it a mocktail instead. Drinks marked with an “*” can be made without alcohol and are just as delicious!  Cheers and Happy Holidays.

 

Smart Shopping on the Busiest Weekend of the Year!

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The holiday season is here – and that means so is the busiest shopping time of the year.  While you can find all kinds of great deals on Black Friday and Cyber Monday the chaos can be overwhelming and stressful. But whether you’re heading out to the stores or shopping online from the comfort of your home, there are things you can do to find the best deals and keep from overspending or making impulse purchases.

Budget

Set a Budget. It’s easy to get caught up in all the fabulous deals you find out there.  But just because something is on sale, it doesn’t mean you should buy it. Make a list of the items you plan to buy and then put a limit on how much you can spend for each item. Setting a budget – and of course sticking to it – will help you not overspend or purchase items you may not need just because they are on sale. You’ll be happy you did after the holidays! Bonus Tip: When shopping online, make sure to take shipping fees into account and include them in your budget!

Scope

Scope Things out Ahead of time. Companies are already advertising Black Friday and Cyber Monday Sales.  Start scoping out the items you want now and make a plan.  Find out who has what you’re looking for and at the best price. We all know how it feels to buy something at one place – only to see it somewhere else for a lower price. Just because you see an item advertised at what looks to be a great deal, doesn’t mean it’s not available somewhere else for a lower price.  Compare prices of items at different retailers to ensure you’re getting the best deal around.

Return Policy

Know Store Return and Exchange Policies. Before you hit that “buy” button or fork over your cash, make sure you are aware of the retailer’s return and exchange policy. While some companies do offer extended return windows during the holidays, many companies can enforce stricter return policies and lots of times deeply discounted purchases can also mean it’s not returnable. Be on the lookout for “final sale” or restocking fees for larger items.  Make sure to ask for gift receipts when purchasing items for others and include it with the gift.  Make sure to read the fine print and if you’re not sure what the store policy is, be sure to ask before you buy!

Loyalty Rewards

Take Advantage of Loyalty Programs. Most retailers these days have some sort of loyalty membership program. These programs often give members early access to sales and additional coupons – and you can earn rewards on your purchases!  It’s a win-win. Once you’ve scoped out what you want and where you can find the best deal, sign up for the store’s loyalty program. Lots of times you can even save on shipping fees!

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And Finally – Start Early! Lots of stores are already advertising great deals.  You don’t have to wait for Black Friday or Cyber Monday to snatch up the savings.  If you see a good deal – grab it.

So you have leftover fruitcake… Now what?

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There are two types of people. Those that love fruitcake, and those that don’t. If you happen to be in the 2nd group, but find yourself the recipient of a fruitcake gift this holiday season, your first instinct may be to re-gift it.

But what if you can’t think of a single person who may actually like the stuff? You don’t want to be wasteful and toss it, so what should you do with it? Believe it or not, there are ways to make fruitcake absolutely delicious. Here are four recipes you’ve just got to try that will give you a whole new opinion of Christmas fruitcake.

Fruitcake Bread Pudding

Fruitcake Bread Pudding – This is our very own recipe that turns what can be a dry cake into a moist delicious dessert. The recipe is super simple and you probably have all the ingredients on hand. You’ll need:

1 fruit cake

3 cups milk

1/2 cup sugar

3 eggs

1 Tbsp Vanilla

Rum Sauce

1 cup packed brown sugar

1/2 cup butter

2 Tbsp whipping cream

4 tablespoons dark rum

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Tear or cut fruitcake into bite-sized pieces and put in baking dish. Whisk sugar and eggs together then add milk and vanilla. Pour this mixture over fruitcake pieces and let soak for at least 30 minutes. Then bake for 30 minutes.

While pudding is cooking, heat all sauce ingredients in a pan over medium heat at a simmer stirring constantly, until sugar is dissolved. About 15 minutes. Pour over warm bread pudding.

Fruitcake French Toast

Fruitcake French Toast – A great twist on this favorite breakfast food Myrecipes.com has a tasty recipe that’s sure to put a smile on your family’s face. If you want to use up other holiday ingredients, substitute ½ cup of eggnog for 2 of the eggs and the heavy cream.

Fruitcake Icecream

Fruitcake Ice Cream – So, so easy! Just chunk up leftover fruitcake and mix it into store-bought vanilla ice cream with some roasted blanched almonds. Another option is to mix the chunked-up cake into butter pecan ice cream. If shakes are your thing, give it whirl in the blender with a splash of milk!

Fruitcake Pops

Fruitcake Pops – Even the kids will love these and you can let them help you decorate them! All you need is 2 cups crumbled fruitcake and 7 ounces bittersweet chocolate, cut into bits. Grind the fruitcake in a food processor until it forms a ball then using damp hands form your cake balls. Let the cake balls rest on waxed paper for 30 minutes and then put them on sticks. Melt your chocolate in the microwave stirring often until smooth and once completely melted; carefully dip the cake balls in the chocolate. Use Styrofoam or foil tightly wrapped over a deep pan to keep the pops upright until the chocolate hardens. Then decorate any way you wish!

There are many other ways to use that fruitcake besides these recipes that will make it delicious. Try using it in a trifle or mix it with yogurt and make a parfait. The possibilities are endless if you just get a little creative. We’d love to hear your ideas! Share them here or over on our Facebook page!