Tag Archives: pajamas

7 ways to celebrate Earth Day

Hey there, Earth lovers! Did you know that Earth Day is on April 22nd? It’s a day to appreciate and protect the environment, and there are so many ways you can get involved. Here are seven fun and easy things you can do to celebrate Earth Day and make a positive impact in the world you live in:

Get your hands dirty by planting a tree or garden. Not only do plants provide beauty, but they also help improve air quality, reduce carbon emissions, and provide habitats for wildlife. Don’t have space or resources for your own garden? Consider volunteering at a local tree-planting event or community garden.

Reduce, reuse, and recycle! These three R’s are a simple yet effective way to reduce our impact on the environment. Think about the items you use and dispose of on a daily basis, and see if there are any changes you can make to reduce your waste. You can start by using a reusable water bottle, shopping bag, and containers instead of disposable ones.

Educate yourself and others. Learn about the environmental issues facing our planet and share that information with others. The more people who are informed, the more likely we are to make real change. You can also join an environmental group or organization and participate in their activities.

Conserve energy. Simple steps like turning off lights when you leave a room, unplugging electronics when they’re not in use, and using energy-efficient appliances can help conserve energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. You can also consider using public transportation, carpooling,

Take a nature walk. Spend some time appreciating the natural world around you, whether it’s a local park or a nearby forest. Not only will you get some exercise, but you’ll also be reminded of the importance of protecting our environment. You can also explore the great outdoors by hiking, camping, or bird watching.

Support environmentally-friendly products and companies. Look for products made from sustainable materials and support companies that are committed to environmentally-friendly practices. You can also choose to buy from local, organic, and fair-trade sources.

Stay at home and watch an environmental documentary or film. Last but not least, stay in your pajamas and watch an environmental documentary or film. Snuggle up and take a break from your daily routine by watching a film like “An Inconvenient Truth” or “The 11th Hour”. You can learn about environmental topics, read books or articles, and research ways to reduce your carbon footprint all while enjoying the comfort of your pj’s.

Remember, Earth Day is an important reminder that we all have a responsibility to take care of our planet. By taking small steps to reduce our impact on the environment and supporting environmentally-friendly practices, we can help ensure a sustainable future for generations to come. So go ahead and celebrate Earth Day!

The Ultimate Closet Cleaning Guide

We’ve been spending a lot of time at home… a lot of time. Over the last year, you’ve likely learned a lot about the home you live in and you’ve probably done a lot of organizing as well. Cleaning out cabinets, storage closets, drawers, basements, and attics is somewhat of a national past-time these days. But… have you cleaned out your main wardrobe closet yet?

If you haven’t, you’re not alone. Did you know that the clothes closet is usually the very last place people organize when cleaning or de-cluttering their homes? Why is that? It’s because our clothes are the hardest things for us to let go of, and they hold a sentimental place in our hearts. Every shirt, dress, pair of pants, sweater, and jacket can be linked to an event in your life or memory. This year, before spring hits, vow to tackle your closet head-on. Clean it out, get rid of things, and make room for new beautiful items.

We’ve got some tips to make the process as painless as possible. So make a pot of coffee, put on your comfy pajamas, and let’s go!

Donation

Who gets what? To begin with, decide what’s going to happen with the things you’re going to get rid of. You may for instance have family or friends who need or want your hand-me-downs. There will also likely be things that you can donate to your local thrift shop, shelter, or charity. Keep them separate as you put them in bags or boxes.

Looking at clothes

Start at one side. It’s very easy to become distracted when you’re cleaning out your closet. Pick a starting point and follow the flow. Move through each section one by one. Whatever you encounter, don’t allow yourself to stray from the game plan or you’ll end up with a bigger mess than you know what to do with.

Thinking

Let go. As stated earlier, clothes have many sentimental memories and we all have those few items that we’ll keep forever, but you can’t keep everything. The rule of thumb is if you’ve gone two seasons and haven’t worn an article of clothing, chances are you will never wear it again. Get rid of it. It’s only taking up space and adding to your clutter.

Try on

Check the fit. Make sure to try things on. If you’re like many people, you’re holding on to a lot of clothes that don’t fit anymore. If something is too big, chances are you’ll never wear it again. If too small, and your plan is to lose weight so it will fit again, ask yourself if you’d actually wear it. If not, it’s much more fun to buy new clothes once you shed the weight.

jeans with pin

Look the clothes over. Many times people have clothes in the closet that have a tear, a button missing, or a broken zipper and the intention was to fix them. If you haven’t done it by now, you probably aren’t going to. Send them on to greener pastures.

80's

Think about your current style. Are you holding on to those stirrup pants from 1984 because you’re hoping they’re going to come back in style? Even if something like that were to become trendy again, chances are the look will be slightly different. Let go of the past.

Laundry

Clean everything. It’s just common courtesy to make sure that whatever you’re giving to someone or donating to charity is clean and smells fresh.

Cleaning Car

Recycle. Most people have t-shirts, sweatshirts, or other items that are too worn to donate or give away, but you don’t want them either. Don’t just throw them away immediately. Reuse them by turning them into rags for cleaning (old sweatshirts are great for cleaning your car) and once they have served their purpose, then you can toss them.

Car Boxes

Out of sight.  Once you are done, get those bags and boxes out of your house. We cannot stress this enough. Load them in the car and drive them to their new homes. If you keep them you’ll start thinking “well maybe I should keep that one sweater because…” and they will without a doubt start working their way out of the bags and back into the closet. You must relocate them at once.

And that’s it. Now you have a closet with lots of room to be refilled with cute, fresh new outfits. Go shopping and have fun. May we suggest you start with pajamas?

5 Super Easy Halloween Costumes That Start With Pajamas

We’re all pressed for time these days but Halloween is just around the corner which means parties, trick or treating and playing dress-up! This year, instead of an uncomfortable costume that also requires tons of time and effort, check out our ideas for simple and quick ensembles for both adults and kids that you can whip together in no time.

Baby Shark Kids

halloweenblog Kids Shark

Baby Shark Do Do Do Do… Love it or hate it, it’s at the top of the trending Halloween costume list this year. Both adults and kids are jumping in with both feet! The idea is actually simple. Pink or blue PJ’s, a white baseball cap with a little modification to the bill, and a pool inner tube around your waist. Make sure to use your hand chomping skills for that extra touch.

Get Wild

halloweenblog Get Wild

Dressing up like a leopard is the ultimate way to show your wild side. With a leopard print footie, some cat ears, and some cool cat make-up it’s a purrrfectly fierce costume idea that will work for all your Halloween functions.

A family of Lumberjacks

halloweenblog Lumberjack

Dad, Mom, the kids, and even the family dog can look like they just stepped out of the forest with this easy lumberjack costume idea. With red and black plaid flapjacks, work boots, fake beards & mustaches, and some lumberjack tools (make sure they’re kid safe) you’ll be the family that everyone remembers trick or treat night!

Knock ‘em out

halloweenblog Robe

A boxer is one of the simplest costumes you can throw together. Get yourself a robe, some shorts, high-top sneakers, boxing gloves, a mouth guard, a towel, and maybe add a little makeup ( a black eye or bloody lip for instance) and you’re ready to rumble!

It’s the The Great Pumpkin Charlie Brownhalloweenblog Great Pumpkin

Because no one has ever actually seen the Great Pumpkin, you can use your creativity and come up with your own version of this mysterious Halloween hero that only Linus believes in. Start with some Halloween themed pajama bottoms and let your imagination take over from there. You can be sexy, cozy, secretive (with a mask) or even scary. The sky’s the limit!

The VERY BEST part about using pajamas as your Halloween costume is that when you’re finished celebrating, there’s no need to change! Just crawl in bed as you are!

We’d love to hear see how you use pajamas as a Halloween costume. Tell us about it here in the comments or head over to our Facebook page and share your pictures. We can’t wait to see your creativity!

Most Fashionable Pajama Sets

Pajamas are a Fashion Statement, According to Experts

For some, wearing pajamas outside of the home is a regular occurance. Stepping outside to get the mail. Making a quick run to the grocery store on Saturday morning. Maybe that’s just how you roll (we’re not here to judge). But recently fashion gurus in magazines like Glamour and GQ have declared that it’s officially en vogue to wear your PJs outside of the house and, well, we couldn’t be more excited.

GQ recently noted the visible shift in men’s fashion towards bold colors and vibrant fabrics, calling them “deeply swaggy.” This awards season men donned ensembles that were designed to make a statement, much like the ladies’ gowns. Men are leaning towards comfort with breezy fabrics like silk and cuts that are more on the casual side, like nice PJs you don’t mind wearing to the grocery store.

In the last decade, women’s fashion has made a steady shift towards comfort over outdated notions of “high fashion.” Yoga pants and athletic wear have become increasingly popular choices for running errands or getting brunch with friends. These outfits are now the rule, not the exception. The fashion industry responded to this trend with more fashionable athletic wear, trendy leggings, and a wonderful jean-legging hybrid known as “jeggings.” Similarly, women’s pajamas have also stepped it up with a number of styles you could potentially wear around town. These are some of our favorites.

8 Fashionable Pajama Sets You Can Wear Anywhere

For some, wearing pajamas outside of the home is a regular occurance. Stepping outside to get the mail. Making a quick run to the grocery store on Saturday morning. Maybe that’s just how you roll (we’re not here to judge). But recently fashion gurus in magazines like Glamour and GQ have declared that it’s officially en vogue to wear your PJs outside of the house and, well, we couldn’t be more excited.”>The Cat's Pajamas - Evergreen Women's Set

1. Evergreen Voile Cotton Pajama Set by The Cat’s Pajamas

This adorable 100% cotton pajama set is perfect for the warmer months. Voile is an ultra-soft semi-sheer fabric, so you might want to pair it with a tank top if you’re considering wearing the top outdoors. The evergreen pattern evokes freshly pressed flowers in spring.

PJ Salvage Women's Dots Cotton Pajama Set

2. Lemon Dots Cotton Pajama Set by PJ Salvage

The cheery soft yellow dot pattern on this woman’s pajama set is a classic. The subtle design could easily be worn underneath a blazer, as pictured, or over a pair of jeans to run errands on the weekend.

Green Pinstripe Poplin Pajama Set Bedhead

3. Green Pinstripe Classic Poplin Pajama Set by Bedhead

Very in line with trending “pajama style” menswear, this crisp green and white stripe set is comfortable in bed or outside the house. 100% cotton means that the set is made from breathable fabric, making these pajamas a great choice for any time of the year.

Kiku Luxe Pima Cotton Pajamas The Cat's Pajamas

4. Kiku Luxe Pima Cotton Pajama Set by The Cat’s Pajamas

Luxe Pima is an ultra-soft, super light tightly woven cotton. These gorgeous pajamas as are as comfortable as they are beautiful. The gray is paired with a modern pop of color in a timeless floral design. In the summertime, you could absolutely wear the top outside with a pair of shorts or rock the pants to brunch with a crisp white shirt.

Paisley Plaid Vintage Jersey Classic Pajama Set Munki Munki

5. Paisley Plaid Vintage Jersey Classic Pajama Set by Munki Signature

In this awkward stage between winter and spring, this ‘vintage’ paisley and plaid pattern is a great combination. This soft jersey pajama set gives off a “modern cowgirl” vibe in a flattering, classic cut.

Blue Chelsea Classic Pajama Set by Bedhead

6. Blue Chelsea Classic Pajama Set by Bedhead

You don’t have to be a soccer fan to sport this classic blue ‘Chelsea’ pajama set from Bedhead. 100% English cotton is styled with a button down front and notch collar. Look put-together on your way to bed or on your way to pick a paper.

PJ Salvage Give Love Classic Pajama Set

7. Give Love Classic Pajama Set by PJ Salvage

Whether it’s a little black dress or a comfortable black pajama top, this adorable pattern from PJ Salvage is always in style. Pair this easy breezy cotton top with a pair of khaki shorts and wedges and you’ve got an effortless springtime weekend look.

Bedhead Men's 3D Stripe Cotton Pajama Set

8. Blue 3D Stripe Fine Cotton Pajama Set by Bedhead

Deep V, anyone? This stylish classic pajama cut is flirty and flattering with vertical baby blue and white stripes. Fine 100% cotton will keep you cool and comfortable in the warmer months, but are light enough to sleep in comfortably under a quilt in the winter. The shirt’s style is so trendy right now, you could even get away with wearing it on a casual Friday.

If you thought this list was fun, check out The Pajama Company Blog for more posts on family fun, movie and book lists, yummy recipes, and tips for rest and relaxation: thepajamacompany.com/blog

10 reasons to love rainy days

Why Rainy Weekends are Actually The Best

Science has proven over and over again that the weather has the power to affect our mood. Shorter days in the winter can make us feel depressed. Cloudy skies can make us feel tired and the sun makes us feel energized. That’s all well and good, but what’s wrong with a little rain? We actually think rainy days are kind of the best, especially during the weekend. Here’s why.

cute bear cotton pajama set

Daisy Alexander ‘Beary Happy’ PJ Set

10 Reasons to Love Rainy Weekends

1. You don’t “have to” go outside.

The great outdoors are, well, great. But after a long, grinding week there’s nothing better than waking up to the pitter patter of rain against your window pane. A rainy day means you don’t have to “make the most” of the weather by getting outside. There’s no reason you have to dust off your bike, go for a jog, take the dog hiking, or meet your friends for a sunny afternoon brunch. You can be an indoor cat without regret.

2. You can catch up on that new series everyone is talking about.

“What do you mean you don’t watch…?” Instead of smiling and nodding when your coworkers dish about That New Show on That Streaming Service, actually participate in the conversation for once. Use your rainy day to pop some popcorn, curl up on the couch, and binge watch a hot new series.

3. It’s hot chocolate weather.

Just because the holidays are over, that doesn’t mean that you have to punish yourself with boring cups of coffee and tea on a rainy day. Make yourself a big mug of hot cocoa with all the trimmings: marshmallows and candy canes if you still have a few lying around the kitchen — they don’t expire, right? Wrap yourself up in a cozy bathrobe and sip while you listen to the gentle sounds of rain outside. Hot chocolate is the ultimate rainy day treat.

4. You can go to bed early.

Even people with the most active social lives need a break every now and again. You’ll notice that on a rainy Friday night, your cell phone will stay blissfully silent. Almost every social butterfly takes advantage of a rainy night to stay in and recharge. So ditch the FOMO (Fear Of Missing Out), go to bed early, and wake up refreshed!

5. Pajamas for the win!

The number one, absolute best thing about a rainy weekend is that you can stay in your pajama pants for 48 straight hours. Blustery wet weather makes us want to curl up under a warm blanket in our favorite flannels, so why not indulge? Put on your slippers and keep them on until Monday.

6. You can do that thing you said you’d do.

How are the New Year’s Resolutions going? Did you make a promise to yourself to get back into painting, read a book a month, try yoga? If you’re not into lazing about on a rainy day, use your gray weekend to get back on track. Read that book, find a yoga video on YouTube, or bust out your watercolors. Even if none of these items ended up on your list of resolutions, using this time indoors to exercise your mind will help you feel more energized when you go back to work on Monday.

7. Takeout tastes better when it’s raining.

It’s a fact: food always tastes better when you don’t have to cook it. Second fact: a comforting container of takeout always tastes better when it’s cold and rainy outside. Take a day off from grocery shopping and order the pizza, pad thai, buffalo wings, or tofu and broccoli you’ve been dreaming about. Then plant yourself on the couch and savor every last bite.

8. You can practice self-care.

In this age of unparalleled connectivity, we really do have to practice self-care. Putting our health and wellness first isn’t an instinct for most modern adults. We have to learn to set time aside to take care of our ourselves. Take a bath, paint your nails, or take a nap. A rainy weekend is the perfect time practice a little self-care.

9. You can do chores without doing much.

Do you know it’s going to rain this weekend? Park your car in the driveway, soap it up, and walk away. Or put your indoor plants outside for a natural watering. Check “water the lawn” off your to-do list. These tiny life hacks can help you feel semi-productive while you spend the rest of the day binge-watching shows on Netflix in your PJs.

cute umbrella pattern pajamas

Ready for a PJ party in the Daisy Alexander ‘Rainy Day’ Classic Pajama Set

10. You can host a pajama party.

If you don’t feel like going out but want to be social, invite a few friends over for a “pajama party.” Encourage them to wear their PJs or their favorite sweatpants, order pizza, open a bottle of wine, and watch a movie together. Nothing makes your home feel cozy on a rainy night like friends and jammies.

We hope this fun little list helps you see the silver lining during your next rainy weekend! For more ideas for family fun, visit The Pajama Company Blog at thepajamacompany.com/blog. Don’t forget to check out our new private label, Daisy Alexander, for the perfect rainy day attire!

Best Rainy Day Pajamas daisy alexander

Friday Night In: Pajama Date Night Ideas

Experts and laymen agree that the best way to keep the spark alive in a relationship is regularly scheduled date nights. While no couple would disagree that time alone together to connect and be a couple would, duh, help you maintain and even deepen connection with your partner, reality sometimes makes this a challenge.

Regular date nights sound simple in theory, but the follow-through can get messy. Maybe you have conflicting work schedules. Maybe you have children and spending $100+ on dinner and a babysitter just isn’t on the table. Maybe you and your partner are new parents who aren’t ready to leave your infant in the care of someone else.

Yes, these situations undoubtedly present challenges when planning a date night and holidays like Valentine’s Day add extra pressure. Consider some of these options as stress-free alternatives.

sushi pattern pajamas

Nothing says “date night in” like takeout and pajamas! This fun new pattern from PJ Salvage is fit for the occasion.

10 Great Stay-at-Home Date Night Ideas

1. Vinyl Listening Party. We just love this idea! Whether you already have a record player or pick up a secondhand player on Craigslist, take turns sharing albums and songs that you love with your partner. Since vinyl has made a comeback, there are plenty of shops popping up where you can get used records on the cheap. Another easy alternative is to take turns playing songs and playlists on Spotify. This activity goes pairs well with a bottle of wine.

2. Roast Marshmallows. Did you know you can find an electric s’mores/fondue maker for $30? We were surprised too. This is a fun, safe, and easy way to enjoy a little taste of summer all year round. Throw some blankets on the floor, open a box of graham crackers, and pretend you’re camping for the night. If you want to create an adult version of the classic s’more try different kinds of artisanal chocolate bars, made with hints of chile, sea salt, caramel, or lavender.

3. Make Dessert Together. If roasting marshmallows and acquiring new gizmos and gadgets seems like too much work for you, keep it simple and make dessert. Take the time to select a recipe together — something that you’ll enjoy making and eating. After the kids are fed and tucked away in their jammies, mix a couple cocktails and get cooking. The dessert can be as simple as a boxed brownies as long as you’re enjoying each other’s company.

4. Work on a Puzzle. When was the last time you pulled out a jigsaw puzzle? While it may not sound exciting, a puzzle is a surprisingly fun group activity. It’s a simple activity that you can work on together while you talk, enjoy some snacks, and have a beer. You’ll be amazed at how relaxed you feel after taking a break from glaring light of your phone or TV screen.

5. Follow a Bob Ross Video. This is just plain fun. Remember Bob Ross, the iconic TV art instructor from ‘80s? Even if you don’t, the videos are worth a watch. Bob’s soothing voice guides viewers step-by-step through the creation of a landscape painting. While oil paints are expensive, regular old Crayola watercolors — or even markers! — are just a few bucks. Follow along and giggle at each other’s artistic ability.

6. Play Cards. Another simple activity to go with an assortment of late-night snacks: cards. There are plenty of two-person card games that you can play or learn. Some examples include Double Solitaire (yes, you read that correctly), 66, Rummy, Pinochle, and the elegantly named Egyptian Rat Screw. Spending quality time together doesn’t have to be complicated to be fun!

PJ Salvage Sushi Pajamas Thats How I Roll

New PJ Salvage Pattern: ‘That’s How I Roll’. View the collection.

7. Have a Slumber Party. This activity is ideal for the couple who would rather wear fuzzy slippers than slacks or heels on a date. Pick out your favorite slumber party movies from when you were a kid, pile the couch high with blankets and pillows, pop popcorn and indulge in the a nostalgic candy selection from your childhood. Comfortable pajamas and eating too much sugar are musts for this date.

8. Tasting or Pairing. Wine tasting and food pairing classes tend to be fancy affairs. Not only are they expensive, but you have to arrive ready to learn, wearing stuffy clothing. We are not about stuffy clothing. There are a million free videos online that can guide you through any kind of tasting and pairing you can imagine and you can wear your pajamas! Some options out there are whiskey and chocolate, wine tasting, or beer and cheese. Have the items on hand and follow along together for your own private one-on-one pairing.

9. The Ultimate Bucket List. This is a fun activity to get to know your partner. Order take out, light some candles, and make an official “bucket list” of all the things you want to do together, no matter how outrageous. This a great way to get to know more about your partner’s dreams and desires and build on your connection.

10. Adult Coloring Books. Coloring books for grown ups are officially “a thing.” A quick search on Amazon will yield hundreds of adult coloring books featuring complex patterns and scenes for you to follow. Adult coloring books became popular after some studies showed that coloring can have the same positive effects on your brain as meditation. Sit down with your significant other and color yourself to zen-like inner peace.

We hope these stay-at-home date night ideas help you think outside the box for your date night (and opt for cozy pajamas instead!). Check out The Pajama Company Blog at thepajamacompany.com/blog for more ideas for family fun.

Best Herbal Teas for a Cold

Healing Herbal Teas for Cold Season

This is the most wonderful time of year to wrap yourself in a warm blanket and hibernate. Unfortunately, hibernation isn’t always a choice. Winter is also host to a number of viruses, ranging from the common cold to the flu. The sniffles might send you back to bed more often than you’d like. In addition to modern medicine, there are a number of soothing ways to treat a cold that taste much better than cough syrup.

We recover faster from colds when we allow our bodies to rest and heal. Get cozy in your softest pajamas, snuggle up under the covers, and make yourself a steaming pot of tea — the perfect beverage to compliment a day of binge watching the latest Netflix drama with a box of tissues.

Plush bathrobe in light pink / blush color from PJ Salvage

Get comfortable in this Luxe Plush Robe in ‘Blush’ by PJ Salvage.

12 Herbal Teas to Soothe the Common Cold

1. White Tea. Similar to green tea, white tea has an antiseptic quality and actually destroys pathogenic bacteria in your body. Pathogenic bacteria are bacteria that can cause disease, so white tea might give your immune system a little boost during cold and flu season.

2. Lemongrass. Teas made with lemongrass serve as a balm for sore throats. Additionally, lemongrass is has antiviral properties that may assist in the healing process.

3. Cinnamon. Teas that contain cinnamon have a warming flavor and an extra kick. They also contain more antioxidants than other herbal teas. Some studies have shown that antioxidants may lower your risk of infections.

4. Ginger. Ginger tea or teas that contain ginger, will help relieve your sore throat and loosen up mucus that causes congestion due to a cold. If you’re feeling queasy, ginger is best known for its ability to calm an upset stomach because it can reduce nausea.

5. Cloves. Similar to ginger, herbal teas that contain cloves can make it easier to cough up phlegm and ease congestion. Another option is to simply add a few cloves to steeping tea. When the tea is finished steeping, strain the liquid or fish out the cloves with a spoon.

6. Black Tea. Please keep in mind that the caffeine may keep you up and prevent you from getting adequate rest. However, it’s good to know that new research from Harvard University concluded that people who drank five cups of black tea every day for two weeks transformed their immune system’s T cells. The cells pumped out 10 times more cold and flu virus-fighting interferon!

Coffee Pattern Flannel Pajama Set

‘Spiced Coffee’ pajama pattern by Munki Munki. Available as a super soft flannel pajama set or just pajama pants.

7. Lemon. Lemon tea or adding a squeeze of lemon to your tea or water will give you a much-needed vitamin C boost, which can help the duration and severity of symptoms if you already have a cold.

8. Turmeric. Turmeric has been getting a lot of praise in the health and wellness community recently. The root is one of the most effective anti-inflammatories in existence. Turmeric tea can help reduce inflammation and relieve gastrointestinal discomfort.

9. Cayenne. It’s no secret that cayenne’s spicy heat is great for warming the body. When utilized in tea, cayenne can help with digestion issues, nausea, and has been known to help restore lost appetite.

10. Raw Honey. Stirring raw honey into your herbal tea will not only add a welcomed touch of sweetness, it will also add small amounts of vitamin C and folate. Honey also contains antibacterial properties. When honey coats the back of the throat, it not only soothes the cough, it can help prevent infection.

11. Sage. We associate sage more commonly with cooking savory dishes, but it can also be used to make a soothing herbal tea. Like ginger and lemongrass, sage eases sore throat discomfort. The herb also contains similar antiviral qualities.

12. Lemon Verbena. Lemon verbena is considered the most intense of the lemon-scented herbs. When used in a tea, lemon verbena has been known to help reduce very mild fevers, settle upset stomachs, and increase appetite. Additionally, lemon verbena tea soothes sore throats.

We hope these herbal teas and natural ingredients help you create a soothing and delicious drink to enjoy while you heal. Of course, always consult a medical practitioner before changing your diet or consuming any natural herbs that may interfere with other medications you may be taking. Feel better soon!

For more ideas for self-care, reading lists, and ideas for family fun this winter season, visit The Pajama Company blog at thepajamacompany.com/blog.

Winter Pajama Sale 2019

Active Indoor Game Ideas for Kids

10 Best Indoor Games to Get Kids Moving

Many of us are looking forward to a 3-day weekend but for parents, a long weekend translates to three days with the kids and it’s easy to feel like a cruise director. January is an exceptionally chilly, blustery time of year and both kids and adults are mostly stuck indoors on the weekend. Whether you’re hosting a sleepover or a family game night, these fun indoor games will help your kids burn some of that excess energy. But don’t worry — no sneakers required. Your coziest flannel pajamas, as always, are perfectly acceptable attire.

Best Indoor Games for Kids

Jump around in these ‘Stay Cool’ pajamas by Big Feet.

Active Indoor Game Ideas for Kids

1. Race to the Finish. Use masking tape or painters to tape to create “lanes” on the floor. Create flashcards with different movements such as hop, skip, or crabwalk. Get creative and let the kids come up with ideas too. For example, one card could read “walk like a chicken” or “swing like a monkey” and have participants come up with their own interpretive movements. Draw a movement card from a hat at random. Players participate in a silly “race to the finish” with the chosen wacky movement.

2. Twister. The classics never fade. Twister is a still an uproariously fun game to play during a sleepover, family game night, or just a fun night in with friends! You’re more likely to topple over from laughing than from loss of balance. Just be prepared for your kids to mock your attempts at agility for the rest of the weekend!

3. Indoor Bowling. Stack plastic cups into a large pyramid. Stack them high and stack them deep. Use a 5-8” toy ball, or even a tennis ball, to roll on the floor at the pyramid. Players get a point for each “pin” they knock down. Just like bowling, the game becomes more challenging as more pins are removed.

4. Limbo! Remember this one? Limbo is a game best played in a group, so it’s a great choice for a sleepover. Grab a broom or mop and see just how low everyone can go! Remember, ‘Limbo’ is one part game and one part dance party, so have the kids help you come up with a killer playlist that everyone will enjoy.

5. Balloon Waddle. A less messy version of the egg-and-spoon race, Balloon Waddle is a silly game that’s perfect for little kids! Blow up some balloons and see if the kids can “waddle” from one end of the room to the other with the balloon between their knees, without dropping it. If it’s too easy or the kids are a bit older, set up a few obstacles for the kids to move around or hop over.

Active Games for Sleepovers

Sleepover-ready in these super comfy dinosaur pajamas by Big Feet.

6. Musical Chair Dance Party. A great group game that can be fun at any age with the right tunes! Simply gather a number of chairs that is -1 of the number of participants and arrange them in a circle, seats facing outward. Play upbeat music. The group must dance (not walk!) around the chairs until the music stops, then it’s a scramble for a seat! Whoever is left without a seat when the music stops is out. Subtract one more chair and keep playing until there’s a winner!

7. Charade-ercise. For the athletically-inclined crowd or a family of sports enthusiasts, create a game of charades that involves a little more movement than most. Create your own categories such as sports, sports-themed movies, and athletes (remember, swimmers, skiers, gymnasts, and dancers count!). Using flashcards, write down your own sporty subjects for participants to energetically act out.

8. *Lego Hunt. Treasure hunts are for more than backyard birthday parties. Perfect for sleepovers or busy little kids, create your own “lego hunt” inside your home. This game is a little more like an Easter Egg Hunt and less involved than a Treasure Hunt where you have to create clues. Simply hide Legos, or Duplo blocks for little kids, around the house. Assign each player or team a color to locate. Hide the same number of pieces for each color. See who can find all their pieces first. Play again and again to see if the kids and beat their best time!

*This game could be played a variety of ways if you don’t have Legos or Duplo blocks. Think about any toys that can be divided into categories, such as animal figurines (mammals vs. reptiles), action figures, cars, and dinosaurs (cars vs. dinosaurs, for example).

9. “Dunk” Competition. This one is surprisingly simple, yet amuses kids …and some adults… of varying ages. You can host an indoor “dunk” competition that doesn’t involve mounting a basketball hoop to your living room wall. Simply set an empty garbage can across the room and see who can make the most shots, either in a row or best out of 10. The perfect activity for a simple, sporty family game night.

10. Hide-and-Go-Seek. Don’t forget this one! Similar to a treasure hunt, a good old fashioned game of hide and seek will have kids running around the house for hours as they take turns being the “seeker.” This game is still a great hands-off way to tire out any child!

We hope these game ideas inspire you to get your family moving this weekend. For more tips and ideas for entertaining kids during these cold winter months, check out The Pajama Company Blog at thepajamacompany.com/blog.

How to Make the Best of Winter

Make the Best of Winter

Each season brings positives and negatives, but according to a recent Gallup poll, only 11% of Americans list winter as their favorite time of year. While the winter months bring the holidays, twinkle lights, parties, and presents, winter also brings cold weather and shorter, darker days — a bit of a bummer for the other 89%. It’s easy to see the glass as half empty, but why not embrace the darkness?

By welcoming winter with open arms and maintaining a positive attitude, we can stave off those pesky winter blues. Brush off that Grinch attitude and see the bright side of nature’s darkest season.

Snuggle Up, Buttercup

Instead of thinking of winter as cold, think of it as cozy. The weather outside is what makes our throw blankets feel softer, our couch feel more comfortable, and our bedroom feel more inviting. Winter is the ultimate excuse to hibernate: laze around in your bathrobe, sip chamomile tea, and curl up under a warm blanket.

When you think about it, winter is just as romantic as spring, the season that gets all the romance glory. Candlelight and red wine are more appropriate in the winter. Activities like snuggling up and watching a movie or dining in a warm, cozy restaurant are practically a given during the colder months. Winter brings us closer.

Indulge in a Little Comfort

If you found yourself saying, “It’s too hot to eat…” at any point last summer, now is your time to take advantage. Make it a point to indulge in all the warm ooey gooey, steaming hot comfort food that you can’t fully enjoy during the warmer months. Bowls of ramen piled high with noodles and thinly sliced pork. Molten chocolate cake and bread pudding on the dessert menu. Baked ziti, spicy samosas, mac n’ cheese.

We understand that many people choose to do a healthy “reset” in January… but winter is long. Before that hot humid weather rolls back around, be sure to treat yourself to a delicious meal that warms you right down to your soul.

The Most Creative Time of Year

Winter drives us indoors, making it the best time of year to start that hobby you’ve been putting off: learn French, make homemade pasta, or learn how to knit. In the warmer months we almost feel guilty when we spend time indoors. During the winter, we can stay at home and learn to watercolor in the comfort of our living room without shame.

Remember, being creative doesn’t have to be a solitary activity. If you find winter to be a lonely time of year, you’re not alone. Or at least you don’t have to be. Start a book club, crafting meet-up, or learn to knit with a friend. Surrounding yourself with good people and good conversation makes any dark day brighter.

Apres Ski Classic Flannel Pajama Set by PJ Salvage

Apres Ski Classic Flannel Pajama Set by PJ Salvage

Read Yourself a Bedtime Story

“Summer reads” have their place, but why not make your way through some winter reads too?  Because it gets darker earlier, most people tend to go to bed earlier in the winter months. The cold weather makes us eager to jump into our flannel pajamas and put our feet up. Pick a book and get into the habit of reading a chapter each night before you go to bed. Not only is reading before bed great exercise for the mind, some studies have suggested that reading before bed also helps you get to sleep faster and stay asleep longer. Once you get into the groove, you’ll be surprised how many books you get through by spring. Far more than you’d ever knock out in a weekend at the beach!

An Excuse to Sleep In

Here’s the absolute best part about winter: it stays dark longer. What’s that? You thought the darkness was a negative? Think of the darkness as nature’s blackout curtain. A later sunrise means that this is the best time of year to comfortably sleep in. It’s as if nature is saying, “Go ahead, take a break. You deserve it.” Sleep in on the weekend and enjoy long, lazy mornings warm in your pajamas just because you can. Soak up the comfort of your warm, cozy bed like you would rays at the beach.

We hope you make the most of the remaining winter months, whether you’re hitting the slopes or hitting the couch with a good book. For more ideas for family fun this season, check out The Pajama Company Blog at thepajamacompany.com/blog.

Self-Care Tips

Don’t Make Plans This Weekend: Hibernate Instead

New year, new you? Before you dive into a 30-day cleanse, start training for a marathon, or sign up for cooking classes — take a weekend to piece the old you back together. The holidays are a wonderful, magical time of year: family, twinkling lights, cozy cups of hot chocolate, more family, friends, parties you’re hosting, parties you’re attending, parties you’re baking for, gifts to wrap, winter break for the kids, even more family… The list of obligations in the month of December escalates quickly. When it’s time to go back to work on January 2nd, you’re already feeling burnt out.

This is why we suggest taking the weekend after the New Year to “hibernate.” Pretend you’re a bear (or family of bears) living in a cave. Get cozy, get comfortable, and put your feet up.

Donuts Flannel Pajama Set by Munki Munki

Donuts Flannel Pajama Set by Munki Munki

Self-Care Guide: How to Hibernate for the Weekend

1. Dress appropriately.

There’s only one hard rule for a hibernation weekend: no pants with zippers. You can wear pajama pants, yoga pants, sweatpants, or any other ultra-comfortable clothes you adore. Pajamas are a great choice, especially for the afternoon naps you might indulge in. Wearing a plush bathrobe, fuzzy socks, and warm slippers will make you feel like you’re at a spa for the weekend.

2. Don’t schedule anything.

You’re not maximizing your time by scheduling out every minute of your hibernation weekend. If you live in a busy household, it might sound like a great idea to set your alarm and wake up early. That way, you could get the bathroom to yourself for a while and soak in the tub — but you also might need the extra sleep. Scheduling your relaxation takes otherwise enjoyable activities and turns them into chores and obligations. Tune in to your body and see how you’re feeling in the moment.

3. Limit your screen time.

In the spirit of hibernation, disconnect email and social media from your phone. We’re all guilty of browsing Facebook, Instagram, and checking work email over the weekend, instead of getting to that book we’ve been meaning to read. Limiting your screen time will also reduce the chatter in your mind that leads to stress and anxiety, allowing you to truly relax.

Dog Tired Women's Nightshirt by Hatley

‘Dog Tired’ Women’s Nightshirt by Hatley

4. Get comfortable.

Pile the blankets and pillows high on the couch or your bed. Light candles and dim the lights. Create a comfortable and relaxing ambiance. Keep everything you need within an arm’s reach: a cup of tea, a snack, magazines, headphones, playlists, books, or the remote so you can stream movies or binge entire seasons of new TV shows. The goal of your weekend hibernation is to exert as little energy as you can so you can feel rested on Monday. Get comfortable.

5. Secure time for yourself.

If you’re sharing your home with your family or roommates, try your best to find some alone time. Let your housemates know that you need a little space for an hour while you read, soak, or take a nap in your bedroom. Even the biggest extroverts need alone time to fully recharge. A little space does a lot of good.

6. Choose the path of least resistance.

When faced with questions like “What should I make for dinner?” or “What activity would the kids like to do this afternoon?” — rephrase the questions like this: “What is the easiest way to make dinner?” or “What is a simple activity that will keep the kids busy this afternoon?” Give yourself permission to choose the easiest route. Sometimes that means takeout or cereal for dinner and other times that means at you put on a movie for the kids and enjoy a couple hours of peace.

7. Drink plenty of water and go to bed early.

The simplest acts of self care are often the most obvious and the most overlooked. Try your very best to drink eight 8 oz. glasses of water each day. Staying hydrated helps with muscle and brain function, keeps your skin clear, eases muscle pain, and helps you sleep better at night. While you’re at it, go to bed as early as you can. Getting at eight hours of sleep reduces your risk for diabetes and heart disease. Sleep also boosts your immune system, manages weight loss, and retains memory. Put on your favorite pajamas and get down to it!

We hope you consider making self-care a habit in 2019! For more ideas for hibernating, self-care, and tips for relaxing, check out The Pajama Company blog at thepajamacompany.com/blog.

matching family pajamas