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10 Late Night Snacks for Sweet Dreams and Better Sleep

Late-night cravings can strike at any time, but choosing the wrong snack can lead to sleepless nights. While it’s essential to satisfy your hunger, it’s equally crucial to select snacks that won’t disrupt your sleep. We’ve compiled a list of eight delicious late-night snacks that are not only delicious but also sleep-friendly. Say goodbye to tossing and turning and hello to sweet dreams with these bedtime treats.

Bananas: Let’s start with the classic banana. It’s not just a convenient snack; it’s also a natural source of tryptophan, the amino acid that can lull you into dreamland. Plus, it’s low on the glycemic index, so no sugar rushes to keep you awake. Slice one up or enjoy it as is for a quick and nutritious bedtime treat.

Greek Yogurt: Greek yogurt isn’t just a morning thing. It’s packed with protein, and when paired with a drizzle of honey, it becomes a creamy, satisfying treat that keeps your blood sugar steady. The protein in Greek yogurt can help prevent blood sugar spikes, ensuring a peaceful night’s rest.

Cherries: If you’re a fan of fruity snacks, cherries are a sweet option that naturally contains melatonin. Melatonin is the hormone that tells your body it’s time to sleep, making cherries a smart choice. You can have a small bowl of fresh cherries or opt for dried ones for a convenient, sleep-promoting snack.

Oatmeal: Oatmeal isn’t just for breakfast. A warm bowl of oats made with milk is both comforting and sleep-friendly. Oats contain complex carbs that can boost your serotonin levels, helping you relax. You can top your oatmeal with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a drizzle of honey for a touch of flavor.

Almonds: If you’re into nuts, almonds are your bedtime buddies. They’re a magnesium-rich snack that can help relax your muscles and improve the quality of your sleep. Just don’t go overboard with the portions; a small handful should do the trick.

Turkey and Cheese: Yes, you read that right. Turkey contains tryptophan, and when combined with a bit of cheese, it makes a delightful duo. Just remember, moderation is the key. You can create a mini turkey and cheese wrap or enjoy them separately for a light, sleep-promoting snack.

Cottage Cheese: Cottage cheese is the unsung hero of late-night snacks. It’s low in fat and high in protein, making it a satisfying choice. Add some fruit or honey for that perfect touch of sweetness. The protein in cottage cheese can help stabilize blood sugar levels, ensuring a peaceful night’s sleep.

Kiwi: Kiwi is a tasty fruit that not only provides a natural dose of vitamins but is also rich in serotonin, which can help regulate your sleep. It’s a low-calorie option that you can enjoy a couple of hours before bedtime.

Warm Milk: A classic choice, warm milk is known for its sleep-inducing properties. It contains tryptophan and can have a soothing effect on your nervous system, helping you relax before sleep. Add a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon for extra flavor.

Dark Chocolate: If you’re in the mood for a little sweetness, opt for dark chocolate. It contains less sugar than milk chocolate and offers antioxidants that can be beneficial for your health. Dark chocolate can satisfy your sweet tooth without causing sleep disturbances.

Choosing the right late-night snacks can make a significant difference in your sleep quality. These eight options provide a balance of comfort and sleep-friendly nutrients, ensuring that you satisfy your cravings without sacrificing your rest. So the next time you find yourself craving a midnight snack, reach for one of these options, and enjoy a more peaceful night’s sleep. Sweet dreams!

How to Throw the Ultimate 4th of July Celebration

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Celebrate America’s independence in style with a memorable 4th of July gathering. This is more than just a party—it’s a chance to embrace the true spirit of America! Get ready to ignite the patriotic energy and make memories that will last a lifetime. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or a picnic at the park, it’s the good old-fashioned American spirit that makes this holiday so special!

From creative decorations that set the stage for a patriotic paradise to mouthwatering dishes that will have everyone reaching for seconds, these ideas will make your 4th of July party as vibrant as the fireworks in the night sky. Get ready to celebrate America’s independence in style with these unique party tips. Let the festivities begin!

Creative Decorations: Set the stage for a festive atmosphere by going beyond the basics. Think outside the box with DIY crafts like handmade paper firework garlands, painted mason jar lanterns, or even a patriotic-themed photo booth area for capturing memorable moments.

Mouthwatering Menu: Elevate your food game with a mix of classic and innovative dishes. Offer a build-your-own burger bar with gourmet toppings, serve up a refreshing watermelon feta salad with a tangy twist, or surprise your guests with delicious grilled pineapple and shrimp skewers for a tropical flair. Get creative and infuse your menu with flavors that will leave your guests craving more.

Signature Sips: Quench everyone’s thirst with refreshing and patriotic beverages. Create a self-serve drink station with flavored lemonades, fruity iced teas, and a selection of craft beers. For an extra special touch, mix up a signature cocktail like a sparkling berry spritzer or a patriotic layered smoothie that will wow your guests.

Unique Entertainment: Go beyond the typical party games and offer unique entertainment options that will keep everyone engaged. Have your guests change into their pajamas, set up a DIY outdoor movie theater and screen classic patriotic films under the stars. Alternatively, organize a friendly cornhole tournament with custom-designed boards featuring patriotic themes. Let your imagination run wild and tailor the entertainment to suit your guests’ interests.

Organized Planning: Stay organized and stress-free by creating a party checklist. Plan ahead and make sure you have all the essentials, from the decorations and food to the activities and supplies. Having a well-thought-out plan will help you stay on top of everything and ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for both you and your guests.

Collaborative Celebration: Encourage your guests to participate in the patriotic fun by inviting them to bring their own creative decorations or dress up in their most patriotic attire. Foster a sense of camaraderie by organizing friendly competitions like a best-dressed contest or a homemade dessert bake-off. Engaging your guests in the celebration will create a lively and memorable atmosphere.

Remember, the key to a successful 4th of July celebration is to infuse your own personal touch and make it an unforgettable experience for everyone. Embrace these unique ideas and let your creativity shine as you celebrate the land of the free and the home of the brave!

Happy 4^th of July!

Throwing the Ultimate Kentucky Derby Party

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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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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!

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 2^nd 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 – 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 – 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 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 – 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!

5 Red, White, and Blue Recipes for your 4th of July Celebration

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It’s the Fourth of July weekend and time to celebrate the USA! That means cookouts, picnics, parades, and parties. Great food makes for great gatherings and Independence Day gives us the opportunity to show our patriotism through the food we make. It’s all about the red, white and blue and we’ve got 5 recipes that are a must for your celebration.

American Flag Caprese Salad with Blueberry-Balsamic Vinaigrette

A perfect starter, this Caprese salad from eatingwell.com has cherry tomatoes, mozzarella and blueberries with a sweet yet tangy dressing on the side. The American Flag presentation is a perfect way to show your patriotism!

Ingredients:

1 pound cherry tomatoes
3 (8 ounce) packages mini mozzarella balls
1 pint fresh blueberries, divided
4 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese
½ cup extra-virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons white balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon honey
1 tablespoon minced fresh shallot
¼ teaspoon kosher salt
¼ teaspoon ground pepper
Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Trim the stem end off each tomato, so they sit flat on their cut sides.
Arranging one row of 10 tomatoes, cut-side down, on a large platter or cutting board. Arrange a row of 10 mozzarella balls directly below the tomatoes, and repeat with another row of tomatoes, another row of mozzarella balls, and another row of tomatoes. On the third row of mozzarella balls, add 5 more to extend the row to the left. Repeat with tomatoes and mozzarella balls two more times, ending with tomatoes.
Set aside 1/4 cup blueberries. Arrange the remaining blueberries in a square to the right of the shorter rows of tomatoes and mozzarella balls.
Slice mozzarella into 4 pieces, then cut each piece into quarters. Using a paring knife, cut a star from each quarter, creating 16 stars total. (Alternatively, use a small star cookie cutter.) Gently arrange the mozzarella stars on top of the blueberries.
Combine the reserved 1/4 cup blueberries, oil, vinegar, honey, shallot, salt and pepper in a blender; blend until smooth. Scatter basil leaves around the flag, if desired, and serve with the dressing on the side.

Red White and Blue Burgers

No summer holiday celebration is complete until you add the burgers! This delicious twist on the basic cheeseburger is courtesy of tablespoon.com. It’s topped with mozzarella cheese, roasted red peppers, and blue cheese. Perfect for the 4th of July!

Ingredients:

2lbs ground beef
8hamburger buns
8oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
2 red peppers, roasted and peeled
4oz blue cheese crumbles
Salt and pepper

For roasted red peppers, place peppers on grill over over gas burner on high for about five minutes, turning occasionally until the pepper skin is very charred. Remove peppers and place in a bowl. Cover with plastic wrap and let steam for ten minutes. Remove peppers and peel off skin. It should come off pretty easily and it’s okay if some skin is left on. Slice stems off of peppers and remove seeds, then slice.
Form burgers into quarter pound rounds and make a small indent in each burger with your thumb. Season well with salt and pepper.
Grill burgers over high heat for 3-4 minutes. Flip burgers, cook for another 2 minutes or so and then add a slice of fresh mozzarella to each burger. Close the lid on the grill to help the cheese melt. Let cheese melt for a minute, then add pepper slices and blue cheese. Cook for another minute. That should leave you with about a medium burger. Cook longer if you want your burger more done.
Serve burger on a toasted bun.

Easy and Sweet Honeyed Quinoa Fruit Salad

A sweet, delicious, and healthy salad is the perfect accompaniment to you celebration meal. This beautiful side dish from saladmenu.com will bring out the oooh’s and aaah’s from everyone at the party.

Ingredients:

½ cup cooked quinoa
½ lb strawberries
½ cup blueberries
½ cup blackberries
1 stem fresh mint
½ lemon
3 Tbsp honey

Cut strawberries into bite size pieces, mix with 1/2 cup blueberries, 1/2 cup blackberries, 1/2 cup cooked quinoa, and chopped fresh mint.
Sweet dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together juice from 1/2 lemon and 3 Tablespoons honey; mix with fruit and quinoa and serve.

Sparkling Red, White & Blue Sangria

No party is complete without a cocktail and this Sangria recipe from gimmesomeoven.com is the perfect libation to toast America with! Fresh fruit and summer flavors will also cool you off on a hot summer day.

Ingredients:

White wine: One bottle of any kind of (still, not sparkling)
Sparkling white wine: We will also add in a bottle of sparkling white wine (such as cava or champagne) just before serving to make the sangria “sparkle.”
Berries: Strawberries, raspberries and blueberries
Apples: Thinly slice some crisp apples to serve as our “white.” Use a small star cookie cutter or cut the apple slices into star shapes.
Liqueur: Brandy is the liqueur that is most traditionally added to sangria. But you’re welcome to add cognac, orange liqueur (such as Grand Marnier, Cointreau or Triple Sec), white vermouth, or whatever sounds good.
Ice: For serving.

Mix together the base ingredients. Stir together white wine, strawberries, blueberries, raspberries and orange in a large pitcher.
Cover and refrigerate. Pop the pitcher in the refrigerator for anywhere from 1-4 hours, so that the drink can chill and all of those fruity flavors can meld.
Stir in the “sparkles.” Once you’re ready to serve the sangria, stir in the sparkling white wine, apples and a handful of ice.
Serve! Then pour the sangria over ice, serve and enjoy!

Berry-Patch Brownie Pizza

Don’t forget the dessert. This patriotic pizza from tasteofhome.com is a decadent way to round out your amazing meal. Chocolate and fresh berries will create your own fireworks when your guests get a taste of it.

Ingredients

1 package fudge brownie mix (13×9-inch pan size)
1/3 cup chopped unblanched almonds
1 teaspoon almond extract
1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon grated lemon zest
2 cups whipped topping
Assorted fresh berries
Optional: Fresh mint leaves and coarse sugar

Preheat oven to 375°. Prepare brownie batter according to package directions for fudgelike brownies, adding almonds and almond extract. Spread into a greased 14-in. pizza pan.
Bake until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean, 15-18 minutes. Cool completely on a wire rack.
Beat next 4 ingredients until smooth; fold in whipped topping. Spread over crust to within 1/2 in. of edges; refrigerate, loosely covered, 2 hours.
To serve, cut into 12 pieces; top with berries of choice. If desired, top with mint and sprinkle with coarse sugar.

We hope you have a wonderful 4^th of July celebration. This year more than ever it will be wonderful to celebrate with family and friends!

Delight Your Sweet Tooth: 8 Holiday Cookie Recipes You Should Bake Right Now!

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One of the best parts of the holiday season is all the wonderful sweet treats that we get to indulge in! It’s that time of the year where we fire up the ovens and start baking all kinds of delicious cookies. Holiday cookie making is a tradition that many of us do every year. They make for thoughtful gifts, beautiful platters for your holiday get-togethers, and of course tasty snacks for everyone in the household to devour. Plus, who doesn’t love to have their home filled with the smell of cookies baking?

There’s nothing like putting on your favorite pajamas, brewing up a hot cup of cocoa or tea, and satisfying your sweet tooth. Whether you lean more towards the traditional varieties of cookies or like to experiment with new recipes, we’ve put together some musts you’ve got to put on your holiday baking list!

Eggnog Cookies from Spend with Pennies

A favorite holiday beverage in a chewy cookie is exactly what we crave. There’s eggnog in both the cookie and the icing! The great part about this cookie is the ability to finish them off by sprinkling a variety of different toppings over the creamy icing. You can find the recipe here at Spend with Pennies.

Raspberry Linzer Cookies from My Recipes

What’s not to love about crispy almond cookies filled with sweet raspberry preserves? Dust with a little powdered sugar for the “snowy” vibe and you have a traditional holiday cookie that everyone will love. This recipe from My Recipes is just like grammas.

Peppermint Pattie-Stuffed Chocolate Cookies from Delish.com

This is a super easy 6 ingredient cookie that blends 2 of our favorite flavors chocolate and mint. This chewy cookie with a surprise inside is a perfect addition to your holiday cookie platter. Here’s the recipe from the folks over at Delish.com.

Pecan Crescent Butter Cookies from The Spruce Eats

No holiday is complete without these crescent moon, melt in your mouth pecan cookies. They are a very versatile treat that pair well with coffee, tea, or just by themselves. We love them as that little “something sweet” after a wonderful meal. Try this recipe with options for substitutions from The Spruce Eats.

Melted Snowman Cookies from myimperfectkitchen.com

A fun cookie to make that the kids will just love. You start with a basic sugar cookie that you can make from scratch, a mix, or refrigerated dough and decorate from there. It’s a cute alternative to the standard cut-out sugar cookie. My Imperfect Kitchen has a great recipe with step-by-step pictures to guide you through the process.

Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies from thefirstyearblog.com

If the thought of chocolate and cherries has your mouth-watering you’re not alone. These are a Pinterest favorite and the recipe from thefirstyearblog.com has amazing pictures that will have you writing ‘cherries’ on your grocery list immediately.

Gluten-Free Pistachio Truffle Cookies from Epicurious

This sweet and salty cookie is a great way to get your sugar fix without straying from your gluten-free diet. They take a little more effort than some other recipes but the end result is a cookie you’ll want to make well beyond the holiday season. Epicurious has a detailed recipe that walks you through the process.

Gingerbread Men (or women, or whatever) from Taste of Home

No holiday season is complete without the traditional gingerbread cookie. Traditionally, the most popular shape is happy little guys complete with buttons and a big smile. Nowadays, any shape you desire will complete your holiday cookie display. We found one of the best recipes over at Taste of Home.

If you have a favorite recipe we’d love to have you share it with us. Post it here or on our Facebook page.

Happy Baking!

4 Summer Cocktails You Need to Try

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Summer is here in full force which means its patio and picnic time. Sure you can have beer and wine on-hand for your fun summer activities and get togethers, but there’s something about an icy, fruity cocktail during the warm summer months that just makes the mood perfect! Refreshing and delicious, these cocktail recipes will be the perfect addition to any event you have planned.

Rainbow Sangria. A beautiful and colorful cocktail that not only looks pretty and tastes great, but as a bonus, you also get a full serving of nutritious fruit in every glass. We found this recipe at Delish.com.

Ingredients

1 1/2 Bottles Moscato – chilled

1/2 c. Triple Sec

Juice of 3 limes

1/4 c. granulated sugar

3 c. each blackberries & blueberries

6 kiwis, peeled and sliced

2 c. each diced pineapple, diced mango & halved strawberries

Directions

In a large pitcher, stir together white wine, triple sec, lime juice, and sugar until combined.
In tall glasses, layer blackberries, blueberries, kiwis, pineapple, mango, and strawberries.
Pour wine mixture over fruit and serve.

Kentucky Lemonade. Nothing says summer like a refreshing glass of lemonade. This recipe takes this favorite hot weather staple and gives it a new twist. This recipe courtesy of The Chunky Chef is simple to make and is sure to be a crowd pleaser.

Ingredients

3/4 cup granulated sugar

3/4 cup water

1 1/2 cups fresh lemon juice (from approximately 6 lemons)

1/2 cup fresh mint leaves

1/2-2/3 cup Bourbon (depending on your tastes)

6 cups ginger ale

additional lemon slices (for garnish)

Instructions

In a small saucepan, combine granulated sugar and water and heat over MED heat. Heat until sugar dissolves into water and mixture is clear. Simmer 1-2 minutes, then remove from heat. Add lemon juice, mint leaves, and Bourbon, then let mixture cool.
Pour mixture through a fine strainer into a large pitcher to remove solid particles and mint leaves. Add ginger ale and stir to combine. Add ice and lemon slices and serve cold.
To serve as pictured: Add a bit of water, lemon juice or light corn syrup to a shallow plate. To another shallow plate, add coarse white sugar. Dip the open end of glasses onto the liquid plate, then onto the sugar plate to create the sugar rim. Serve drink over ice cubes, garnish with a lemon slice and sprig of mint.

Island Breeze Cocktail. If your summer plans don’t involve heading to a tropical island, this cocktail form Crazy for Crust is the next best thing. With just a few ingredients you can make it either as a single drink or as a punch if you need a big batch for a picnic. Minus the palm trees, it’s just like you’re really there!

Ingredients

To make one cocktail:

1-2 ounces vodka

6 ounces pineapple juice

Splash of cranberry juice

Pineapple and a maraschino cherry for garnish optional

To make as a punch:

36 ounces pineapple juice

12 ounces vodka more or less depending on how strong you want it

1/2 cup cranberry juice

Up to 1L Sparkling water or diet lemon-lime soda as a filler

Instructions

Pour all ingredients over ice, stir, and enjoy!

Strawberry Mojito. With fresh Strawberries at peak flavor this time of year, you’ll get the feeling that you’re right there in the patch picking handfuls of juicy berries. Add a little rum, mint, and a few other ingredients and you’ll have the coolest, most refreshing beverage you could ever imagine. Thank you to the folks at Allrecipes for this one!

Ingredients

2 tablespoons white sugar, for rimming

2 large limes, quartered

½ bunch mint leaves

7 eaches strawberries, quartered

1 cup white sugar

1 cup white rum

2 cups club soda

8 cups ice cubes

Instructions

Pour 1/4 to 1/2 inch of sugar onto a small, shallow plate. Run one of the lime quarters around the rim of each cocktail glass, then dip the glasses into the sugar to rim; set aside.
Squeeze all of the lime quarters into a sturdy glass pitcher. Toss the juiced limes into the pitcher along with the mint, strawberries, and 1 cup of sugar. Crush the fruits together with a muddler to release the juices from the strawberries and the oil from the mint leaves. Stir in the rum and club soda until the sugar has dissolved. Pour into the sugared glasses over ice cubes to serve.

They say we’re in for a hot summer, but we know you’ll keep cool with these tasty concoctions. We sure will! If you have other cocktail recipes we need to know about, feel free to tell us about them here or share them with our community over on Facebook.

Cheers!

Plan a fun Halloween Weekend with these frightfully fun ideas

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Halloween is so much more than carving pumpkins, costumes, and trick or treating. Since there is nothing better than family time, why not plan an entire weekend to get everyone in the spirit? We have some spooktacular ideas that are sure to keep all the ghouls and goblins entertained and bring a wickedly fun twist to your Halloween activities!

Brew a Batch of Slime

Could there be a better time of year to make ooey-gooey slime? We think not. Slime making is easy, fun, and has all kinds of creative possibilities! You can make slime any color and add extras like plastic spiders, googly eyes, or glitter for a special extra touch. Here’s a simple recipe we found that both adults and kids will love playing with!

Get Wrapped Up in Mummy Bowling

Wrap Plastic bowling pins (available at almost any store that sells kids toys) in toilet paper, glue some eyes on, line them up, and voila- you have yourself a mummy bowling alley. You can use a rubber ball or if you want to make it extra fun, use a small pumpkin! Play as individuals or teams and have prizes for the winners!

Make Frightfully Fun Halloween Recipes

A quick search for “Halloween Recipes” will produce 1000’s of fun snacks and treats that your whole family can sink their teeth into. A great idea would be to give each person a recipe to make and let the creative juices flow. Not only will you have some tasty tidbits for your Halloween celebration, but the kids will also learn a little about cooking and how much fun it can be!

Craft up Some Decorations

Halloween crafts are another project with endless options. From painting pumpkins to festive paper lanterns you’ll make memories and have hours of enjoyment being creative! The best part is that after Halloween is over, you can put them away and bring them out to display for years to come!

Bob for Apples

Bobbing for apples really is a Halloween tradition! People have been doing it forever and it’s one of those activities that get passed down from generation to generation. Ideally you want to play this fun game outside if the weather cooperates but if it has to be done inside, make sure to put some towels down to avoid slipping on wet floors.

Have a Scary (or scary-ish) Movie Marathon

Have the whole family put on their pajamas, dim the lights, grab all those tasty treats you just made, and settle in for a night of spooky, scary fun. There are tons of age-appropriate options so make sure your playlist is suitable for your audience. We don’t want the little ones too scared or they’ll be up all night!

Tell scary ghost stories

Another fun pajama activity! Light a fire in the fireplace or fill the room with candles and turn off the lights. You can even hand out flashlights to use during storytelling. Take turns coming up with the scariest stories or talk about actual scary folklore from your neck of the woods.

Do the Time Warp

The Rocky Horror Picture Show is a cult classic. One of the most iconic parts of the film is the classic ‘Time Warp’ song with dance. Since the film is not suitable for all ages, download just that part of the movie to play on your TV. You’ll have a blast learning the dance and watching everyone get their moves on. Plus… you’ll get a little exercise to work off all the treats!

We’d love to hear your ideas for a fun Halloween weekend too! Share them in the comments or visit our Facebook page and show us your pictures of how you celebrate the scariest night of the year!

How to Make Holiday “Cookies” for Your Dog

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Winter is the time of year to get cozy at home. There is no better way to make a house feel warm and welcoming than with the smell of freshly baked treats. Throughout the holiday season home bakers are whipping up batches of cookies for family, friends, and neighbors — so why not your best furry friend?

Even if you’re not a baker, we promise that your pup won’t be as critical of your skills as your human friends and family! As with any changes to your dogs diet, we advise that you consult your vet first and consider possible allergies before feeding these treats to your buddy.

Lazy One Red Plaid Bear Cheeks FlapJack for Dogs

Matching pajamas for the whole family, including Fido! “Bear Cheek” FlapJack pajamas for dogs by Lazy One.

8 Incredible Homemade Dog Treat Recipes

1. Easy Peanut Butter Dog Treats

You’d be hard pressed to find a basic human cookie recipe that’s this easy to make! With only four ingredients and a few steps, your pup can be enjoying warm peanut butter goodness fresh from the oven! We’re willing to bet you have all or most of the ingredients in your fridge already. Get the super simple recipe from Damn Delicious here.

2. Peanut Butter Bacon Dog Donuts

If you give a dog a donut… These adorable treats are inspired by the children’s book by Laura Numeroff. If you’re worried about the sodium content in the bacon, opt for a natural, low-to-no sodium brand, or just skip it all together. He’ll be plenty happy with the peanut butter. Get the recipe from Sunny Day Family here.

3. Chicken and Biscuits Dog Treats

Deviating from the peanut butter theme for a moment, here is a simple dog treat recipe that would make great use of leftover scraps of meat from a roasted chicken. Be sure to read the author’s note on not including the skin because of fat content or heavily seasoned meat. We really love that the author simplifies the recipe further by skipping the cookie cutter process. Let’s be honest, the dog is going to eat them no matter the shape! Get the four ingredient recipe and instructions from Two Healthy Kitchens here.

4. Spinach, Carrot and Zucchini Dog Treats

If you’re already making a New Year’s resolution to eat more vegetables, let your dog join in on the fun! These DIY dog treats are easy, nutritious, and easy to make. Yes, your dog will devour them — vegetables and all! Get the unique dog treat recipe from Damn Delicious here.

Lazy One Moose Fair Isle FlapJack for Dogs

For pups who feel the winter chill more than most, “Moose Fair Isle” FlapJack pajamas for dogs by Lazy One.

5. Luxe Cheddar Bacon Dog Treats

Leave it to the folks at Good Housekeeping to develop a dog treat recipe that’s so over-the-top delicious that humans admit to snacking on them too. This recipe has the mouth-watering combination of bacon and cheddar along with a healthy punch of fiber and protein from rolled oats and eggs. Check out the recipe and video from Good Housekeeping here.

6. Chicken and Wild Rice Biscuits

Modeled after one of the more popular dog food flavors, this homemade chicken and wild rice dog biscuit recipe is going to be a surefire hit with your pup. Another great alternative to all the peanut butter and bacon-heavy recipes floating around on the internet. Get the recipe and instructions from Carrie’s Experimental Kitchen here.

7. Pumpkin Apple Dog Treats

This healthy treats are supposedly great for your pup. Canned pumpkin is recommended for dogs to settle stomach upsets. Apples are also good treats for dogs, loaded with fiber and vitamins A and C (just remember to remove the seeds!). Get the four ingredient recipe and step-by-step instructions from Three Little Ferns here.

8. Grain-Free Breath Freshening Dog Treats

Have you ever bought those pricey breath freshening dog treats before? It seems like the second you invest in a 10 lb. bag, suddenly your pup loses all interest. Not with this homemade version. The treats are not only easy to make, they’re also grain-free for dogs with sensitivities to wheat. Learn how to make these dog treats from Health Starts in the Kitchen here.

We hope your pup enjoys these tasty treats! If you really want to spoil your pup this holiday season, browse our collection of adorable pajamas for dogs. For more ideas for family fun this holiday season, check out The Pajama Company Blog at thepajamacompany.com/blog.

Back to College: Late-Night Treats You Can Make in a Microwave

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School is back in session. By now you’ve moved into the dorm, unpacked, and are getting settled into your class schedule. Balancing school, your social life, and maybe even your job is a lot to take on. This often leads to evening study sessions, night shifts, or late-night hang outs with friends. Whatever you’re up to in the wee hours, you’re bound to get a craving for a late night snack every now and again.

Don’t let minor details like “not having a kitchen” stop you from cooking up something delicious. Crawl into your favorite pajama pants and give one of these inventive microwave-only recipes a try. We guarantee that you will be equally amazed and satisfied!

Get cozy with a snack and these Unisex Flannel Pajama Pants from Boxercraft.

15 Late-night snacks you can make in a microwave.

1. Chocolate Pudding Cake. Brown sugar in the batter of this classic fudgy cake makes it extra rich and gooey. Swing by your local convenience store and grab your favorite vanilla ice cream to top it with. The longer the cake cools, the more the pudding is absorbed into the mixture. Get the recipe from Food Network here.

2. Blueberry Muffin. Fresh “baked” blueberry muffin, cooked in a mug in your microwave! While summer is over, you might still be able to find some reasonably priced blueberries. What we like about this recipe is that it’s actually low-sugar, low-carb, so it’s a lighter choice as well. Get the recipe from The Gingham Apron here.

3. Caramel Popcorn. You read that correctly: perfect caramel popcorn. Hot from the microwave. Each piece of popcorn is guaranteed to be coated with just enough salty sugary sweetness. Best part? Its light and crispy texture. Get the recipe from This Week for Dinner here.

4. Chili Cheese Dip. This is just a friendly reminder that the go-to “microwave classics” are still just as delicious. Whip up a quick 3-ingredient chili cheese dip in a mere 5 minutes. Crack open a bag of tortilla chips and enjoy. Get the recipe from All Recipes here.

5. Chocolate Chip Cookie in a Cup. That’s right a freshly baked… errr, zapped… ooey gooey chocolate chip cookie, on demand, using nothing but your microwave. The perfect snack to go with a pair of warm footy pajamas and a big glass of milk. Get the recipe from No. 2 Pencil here.

6. Oatmeal Bars. Great for a late-night snack or a sweet accompaniment to stale coffee, these chocolate-slathered oatmeal bars can be whipped up in just moments. With so few ingredients, it’s pretty easy to keep everything you need on hand. Get the recipe from Taste of Home here.

7. Best Ever Bacon. What about those Saturday or Sunday mornings when you’re craving a hot breakfast but feeling a little… shall we say, under the weather? If you’re not one to make it to the dining hall for breakfast, master this easy how-to for perfectly crispy microwaved bacon. Get the instructions from The Creek Line House here.

Unfortunately, you can’t make sushi in the microwave. Satisfy your late-night craving with these sushi flannel pajama pants from The Cat’s Pajamas.

8. Cheesy Vegetable Quiche. Looking for a follow-up dish to go with that perfectly crispy bacon? Why stay in your pajamas and whip up some brunch? These quiche delivers time after time, regardless of the ingredients you choose. Get the recipe from Fresh April Flours here.

9. Enchiladas. Late night cravings for salty, cheesy, spicy Mexican food can be satisfied with this quick and easy recipe for microwave enchiladas. Ready in just 10 minutes! Get the recipe from Flippin Delicious here.

10. Chocolate Peanut Butter Mug Cake. This super decadent cake tastes just like a Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup and just like the candy, it’s virtually impossible to share. The entire cake is made inside — you guessed it — a coffee mug. Get the recipe from Yammie’s Noshery here.

11. French Toast. Okay, we understand that this one might be hard to wrap your head around but it is possible to recreate French Toast in a microwave… in just 2-minutes! Top with maple syrup and you have a tasty fall treat for any time of the day. Get the recipe from Pretty Prudent here.

12. Peanut Brittle. We agree that at first glance, microwave peanut brittle does sound like it would be a total disaster. However, this recipe turns out beautifully to everyone’s surprise. Just like grandma used to make, but without all the fuss. Get the recipe from Plain Chicken here.

13. Hasty Chocolate Pudding. Have you ever had fresh, hot pudding? It is absolute perfection, especially on a chilly fall night. Pull on your coziest flannel pajamas and curl up with a bowl of this delicious microwave alternative to stove top pudding. Get the recipe from All Recipes here.

14. Scrambled Eggs. Another great side to go with that microwave bacon, scrambled eggs in the microwave is done in as little as three steps and 3 minutes depending on how many eggs you make. Throw in some cheese and green onion if you want to get crazy. Get the recipe from She Pins here.

15. Mac n’ Cheese. This list wouldn’t be complete without the addition of the ultimate late-night craving, mac n’ cheese. This is an awesome recipe for homemade single-serving mac that you can whip up in a coffee mug in the microwave. It’s creamy and delicious and actually better for you than the store-bought microwave variety. Get the easy recipe from Ella Claire Inspired here.

We hope this collection of fun microwave recipes come to your rescue this semester! For more recipes and ideas for fall fun, visit The Pajama Company blog at thepajamacompany.com/blog.

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8 Incredible Homemade Dog Treat Recipes

1. Easy Peanut Butter Dog Treats

2. Peanut Butter Bacon Dog Donuts

3. Chicken and Biscuits Dog Treats

4. Spinach, Carrot and Zucchini Dog Treats

5. Luxe Cheddar Bacon Dog Treats

6. Chicken and Wild Rice Biscuits

7. Pumpkin Apple Dog Treats

8. Grain-Free Breath Freshening Dog Treats

15 Late-night snacks you can make in a microwave.

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