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The Best New Year’s Resolution For 2019 [Or Ever]

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Resolve to Reconnect

January 2019 is in full effect, everyone. And you know what that means – everyone is talking about New Year’s resolutions. Lots and lots of “What are your new year goals?“ everywhere. Time to hit the reset button, take inventory, get healthier, time to get organized, right?

We challenge you to try thinking a little outside the box on the whole New Year resolution thing this year. We’ve got a new year’s resolution idea for you that’s truly meaningful – one that could bring you real happiness! And the payoff is even more instant for you than say, hitting the gym or giving up sweets.

Ask yourself — how important is it to you to stay connected with people who mean a lot to you? Can you think of 3 people who come to mind? Well, how about resolving to reconnect with them this year?

We all know life gets in the way, and sometimes it’s just so ridiculously hard to stay connected– because, well… things! And that’s totally okay, because the good news is, it’s never too late! So take the pledge in 2019 – to reconnect with old friends, reconnect with family, your college roommate, a mentor, teacher, or call up an acquaintance you last saw right before a major milestone may have shifted your focus – and get on the path to happiness and well being by improving your relationships!

Don’t worry, we get it. Starting is always the hardest part. But we’ve already thought of that, and now you don’t have to go it alone. We’ve created a place you can visit stocked with ideas that’ll help you get over the most daunting part – resolving to reconnect with people you care about, then taking the first step to do it.

The best way to keep your resolution is to hold yourself accountable. So – go on! Kick off your connecting, with this inspiring free printable pledge that you can hang wherever you’d like, to hold yourself to the promise you made and keep those who have made an impact in your life top of mind in 2019!

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Printable Summer Quotes

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Blue skies. Warm sunshine. Gentle, swaying breezes. Summer’s such a beautiful time of year, isn’t it? Yet with the many demands of our busy lives, we may all be just a little guilty of forgetting that we can make it as fun and rewarding as we want to. The most important thing to remember is to give meaning to what really matters: relationships, not activities or events. So let’s rediscover the true joys of this season all over again — together. Plus, to help spread Summer Joy, we have beautiful, printable summer quotes you can cut out and leave for others, or use for your as your own inspirational reminders to soak in the season!

How to Make a Meaningful Summer with Kids

The secret here is to avoid just absentmindedly and randomly making a list of things to do. Instead, plan your activities thoughtfully and with purpose. Be sure to actively involve your kids, and find out what’s most important to them as well. Some sample questions to ask them: “What do you think would be a fun thing for us to do together this summer and why?” “If you could imagine the best summer adventure in the world, what would it be?” “What can we do to make a difference?” Here are a few fun examples to spark an idea of your own:

  • Learn something new. Share an experience that’s both novel and interactive. Ask your child if there’s something they’ve always wanted to try and maybe never had the courage to do. What a great way to discuss feelings of insecurity, how to handle life’s challenges, and satisfaction of accomplishment. Just having you there may be all the encouragement they need to get past their comfort zone.
  • Volunteer for a worthy cause. Work side-by-side helping others while discussing the importance of giving back. Do some crafts with the elderly in a nursing home. Walk a dog at an animal shelter. Or offer popsicles to the garbage truck workers in your neighborhood. You may even make a few new friends along the way.
  • Nurture relationships. Who do your kids want to spend more quality time with and get to know better? And why? Talk to them about the importance of relationships, whether it’s with their cousins, grandparents, or next-door neighbor. Then coordinate the visits and discuss afterwards.

How to Make a Meaningful Summer with Friends

This is all about spending quality time with your BFFs. That means stowing away cell phones and carving out time for lots of personal interaction. Take a day off work. Heck, take off a whole week of vacation and do something serendipitous. We like to call it “deliberate fun.” Here are some suggestions to get you started on your own brainstorming:

  • Get personal. Instead of just “liking” the social media posts and photos of friends you haven’t seen in a while, take the time to actually call or visit them. Try doing this on a regular basis, and you’ll soon see how special you make each of them feel.
  • Go unplugged. Pick an activity to do with your friends (liking eating out, going bowling, or hiking trails) and leave all electronics behind. Focus on your friends and give them your undivided attention. Bonus: Have your friends do the same.
  • Make it “write.” There’s nothing quite as meaningful as a handwritten note, letter, or card from a friend. Get out your pen and rekindle an old friendship, or strengthen a new one.

How to Make a Meaningful Summer for Yourself

We all need some alone time once in a while. And summer is the perfect excuse to wind down and enjoy yourself — by yourself. Forget the errands and chores. They can wait. You can’t. This is your time. Make the most of it.

  • Research your roots. If you’ve always wanted to find out more about your family history, now’s the time to do it. Reach out to family members who can fill in the gaps. You may even discover relatives you never knew you had! Your next family reunion will be that much bigger.
  • Take some time just for you.  Start the day with a nature walk to set a calm mood and take plenty of deep breaths to drink in your surroundings. Read a book, or write in a journal. Watch your favorite movie, or catch up on some much-needed sleep. Take the day to revisit yourself and see how refreshing some true “me time” can be.

We hope this helps you in planning to make it a meaningful summer this year, no matter who you’re with! To make it even a bit more fun and exciting, here are some super-cute summer quotes we’ve created just for you. Download and print today. use the blank notes to fill in activities or ideas you want to accomplish this season. Happy summer, everyone!

Printable Summer Quotes

Printable Summer Quotes

 

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How to Make Tissue Paper Flower Pens

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Tissue paper flower pens are a fun, inexpensive and easy way to make someone a gift from the heart. For less than $1.00 per pen, you can create a festive keepsake that’s sure to make them smile—without breaking your wallet. And the best news is, you don’t have to be super crafty to make one!

Here’s what you’ll need:

  1. Pens (straight ones without a clip work the best)
  2. Tissue paper
  3. Curling ribbon
  4. Double-sided tape
  5. Scissors

 

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Lay a single piece of tissue paper flat and smooth it out.  Fold it in half four times, smoothing it out each time to avoid wrinkles.
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Take your scissors and free-hand cut a cloud shape, cutting through all layers of tissue paper at the same time. It doesn’t matter if it’s perfectly symmetrical or that it resembles a perfect flower-shape. (In fact, we found that the uneven cloud-shape gives you a fuller look.)

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Take your stack of petal-clouds and restack them on top of each other, flipping some of them over and rotating them around so that they’re in an uneven stack, not perfectly one-on-top of each other.

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Use the tip of your pen and press down on your stack of petals. Carefully pull the petals up 2-3 layers at a time onto the handle of the pen.AG_FB_LINK_Tissue_Paper_Flower_Pen

Once all of the tissue paper is pulled onto the pen, wrap the flat end of the pen in double-sided tape. Pull up a single piece of tissue paper and gently press it onto the tape from several sides. Gently squeeze the tissue paper to pull it all close together.

Now you pull all of your petals a few at a time towards the end of the pen.  Gently pull your petals through your thumb and index finger to smooth them out and bring the flower together.

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Holding the flower between your thumb and index finger, wrap the very base of the flower in double-sided tape. Apply double-sided tape length-wise down both sides of the pen and wrap the base of it as well. Then starting at the base of the flower, wrap the pen in the green curling ribbon.

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Move slowly and overlap it so that the pen is completely wrapped in ribbon. When you reach the base of the pen, cut of the excess curling ribbon. If the ribbon feels loose at the tip, you can tuck another piece of double-sided tape under the tail end of the ribbon for extra security.

 

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And there you have it–an adorable tissue paper pen, perfect for celebrating any occasion! If you want to make a dozen, it will take about two packages of tissue paper and about a roll and a half of curling ribbon, keeping the total cost of this project under $1/pen.

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Still need some extra help? Watch our full video tutorial below:

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Time to Elf! (Free Printable)

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December is here, lights are going up, presents are getting wrapped, and the Christmas countdown has officially begun. As holiday spirits continues to rise, why not share the fun with your friends, neighbors, and co-workers?!? We’re talking about Elfing!

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Not sure how to play? Here’s a simple breakdown:

You can start the game anytime before Christmas by leaving an Elfed surprise for neighbors or co-workers. Begin the game by secretly leaving a bag of treats and other small surprises, together with an Elf sign and Elf poem explaining how to play the game.

If you’re leaving your Elfed bag for a neighbor, ring their doorbell and run! When they open the door, they’ll be greeted by a little holiday surprise left by their very own Christmas elf. In turn, each recipient is asked to post the sign to alert would-be Elves that they’ve already been visited, and to pass the game along to two more neighbors. The best part is seeing the joy spread throughout the entire neighborhood.

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You can also Elf your way through the office by following the same instructions, just leave your surprise for a co-worker when they’re not around, and ask them to display their sign in a visible spot on their desk.

To get you started, simply select one of our FREE Elfed Printable Signs that makes the most sense for who you’re Elfing, and print out a few copies to include with your surprise.

Elfing_CoWorker_Page_1Click here to print this version

We've been ElfedClick here to print this version

You've been ElfedClick here to print this version

 

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Make a Summer Bucket List

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Your Summer Bucket List

Summer’s in full swing and everyone’s heading for the great outdoors and our minds are quickly filling up with grandiose ideas of how we’re going to spend our days in the sun. Something fun? Something new? Something adventurous?

But so often we get distracted and time passes by much too quickly. Before we’re left wondering, “Where did summer go?” it’s time to do something about it. Now!

Stay right on track by creating a summer bucket list of must-do ideas so that your summer stays action packed and filled with memorable experiences. Here are some ideas to get you started:

  • Look locally: Take a look at your state and local visitor’s bureau to see if there are local attractions that you’ve never been to before. The community calendar section of your local newspaper is also a great place to start. Sometimes just the next town over can offer a new experience or a little-known piece of local history.
  • Water fun: Summer is much more than lounging by the pool. Check out local lakes or try a new watersport like kayaking or windsurfing if it’s available in your area.
  • Nurture nature: So not everyone may be ready to tackle an entire weekend camping, but even just going on a hike in a local park is a great way to connect with nature. Many park systems also offer summer programs and guided tours, so take advantage and use nature as your outdoor classroom.
  • Seasonal eats: Give your regular menu rotation a fresh start with some fun summer recipes featuring locally grown fresh fruits and veggies. Shop a local farmers’ market. Or if you’re super ambitious, grow your own! And if space is scarce, a small potted herb garden is still very manageable and a good project for a beginning gardener.
  • Summer favorites: Some things just go hand-in-hand with summer: going to a drive-in movie, getting ice cream, hosting a lemonade stand, and having a picnic or cookout. Keep a running list in an easily accessible place, like the refrigerator, so that you can add to it as things pop into your head.

Summer Bucket List

For your convenience, American Greetings has created a special printable checklist just for you. Simply click here, right click to save to your desktop and print!

Happy summer, everyone!

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The perfect summer soundtrack

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The Perfect Summer Soundtrack

Whether you’re headed out on the open road, relaxing by the pool, or grilling with family and friends, music is an essential part of the summer season. The best way to share and enjoy the songs you like most is to create your very own custom summer soundtrack.

In order to put together a perfect summer soundtrack, remember that it takes time, practice, and, ultimately, a great range of artists and genres to fit your moods and activities. Since today’s hits are sure to be blaring on the radio already, let’s instead focus on some older, less recognizable songs and artists that fit the following typical summer situations:

Road Trip: It may be the ultimate challenge for any musical compilation. You’re in the car, possibly for hours, and music is your one salvation. The good news is that there are countless songs that are sure to put you into the road trip spirit. Here are a few that would make almost any list:

  • “Slow Ride” by Foghat – The name says it all.
  • “Life is a Highway” by Rascal Flatts – A perfect road trip anthem.
  • “Fantastic Voyage” by Coolio – An off-the-beaten-path (pun very intended) suggestion. Will make the drive almost as much fun as the destination!
  • “Boys of Summer” by Don Henley – What could be better for a trip with the guys?
  • For a girls-only weekend, you can’t go wrong with the Lenny Kravitz version of “American Woman.”

Basking in the Sun (and the Down Time): Few things offer the kind of simple pleasure as does basking in the sun. Whether on a beach blanket, on a favorite comfy outdoor chair, or in a hammock, it’s one of the best ways to relax and wind down. So with that laid-back vibe in mind, accompany your well-deserved break with these mellow tunes:

  • “It’s Five O’Clock Somewhere” by Alan Jackson – A subtle reminder there’s always a party going on.
  • “Could You Be Loved,” “No Woman, No Cry,” and on and on by Bob Marley – No relaxing afternoon or vacation would be complete without this musical genius.
  • “Summer Wind” by Frank Sinatra. No artist is cooler and no song gives you the feeling of ultimate summer decadence like this one.
  • From “Changes in Latitudes, Changes in Attitudes” and “Margaritaville,” to “Cheeseburger in Paradise,” no one captures the carefree days of summer quite like Jimmy Buffett as he reminds us all to relax and enjoy the ride.
  • For a more current artist to add to your laid-back mix, Jack Johnson is a great albeit not-widely-known pick. Johnson’s folk-rock jams feature poetic lyrics and rhythms that will get everyone nodding along in approval.

Get-Togethers: Summer gives all of us more opportunities to enjoy the company of friends and family with regular get-togethers. This summer, be sure your back yard, porch, or patio is ready with the right music to get everyone in a celebratory mood.

  • “Sweet Caroline” by Neil Diamond – We dare you to find someone who doesn’t know the words, and nothing gets a party going quite like a singalong.
  • They aren’t called The Beach Boys because they’re great for listening to on a rainy day. Their upbeat tracks are perfect background for any summer gathering.
  • Make it a Motown evening with hits from The Temptations, The Four Tops, Marvin Gaye, or any of your other Hitsville USA favorites.
  • Any of The Beatles’ classics would be perfect for a family and friends get-together. From slower tracks like “Let it Be” and “Yesterday.” to more rocking fare like “Can’t Buy me Love” and “Twist and Shout,” you really can’t go wrong.
  • Having a Family Reunion or just entertaining all the relatives? If so, you simply have to include Sister Sledge’s “We are Family” to the mix!

 

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Super Staycations

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Super Staycations

Want a summer break? Need a summer break? But funds are a little low this year?

No fret! It’s time to think outside the box and discover the advantage of taking a summer staycations (i.e., a vacation in which you don’t travel away from home).

Your own backyard and your own hometown both offer some great getaways that you might not have thought of—and which won’t break the bank. They’re easy to plan, inexpensive, and fun, offering great enjoyment for you, your family, and your friends.

Here are some of our favorite staycation ideas:

  • Be a Tourist: Take a trip to your city’s own convention and visitor’s bureau to check out pamphlets on attractions in your area you may have missed or haven’t seen in several years. Ask for recommendations on restaurants you’ve never tried. And inquire about festivals, outdoor concerts, or special activities coming up. You may just see your city through new eyes!
  • Visit Some Furry Friends: When was the last time you went to the zoo? Rather than hurrying around to make sure you see all of the animals, take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the personality quirks of those on your way. You’ll be surprised at how the animals react when different groups come through.
  • Play Copycat: Recreate your favorite vacation spot with a favorite meal, a movie, or a few decorations. It’s funny how just a few tiki cups, paper umbrellas, and a lei can whisk you away to a faraway island without even leaving your own zip code.
  • Host a Movie Night: If you have access to a video projector and sound system, host a backyard movie night by showing a favorite flick onto a projection screen or sheet. Provide popcorn and soda (plus other theatre treats if you’re feeling ambitious) and invite the neighbors to bring their own seating. If you have a pool, even better! A float-in movie is always a big hit.
  • Camp in Your Own Backyard: Set up a tent and sleeping bags right in your backyard. Make s’mores on the grill. Tell stories. And try to identify the major constellations in your night sky. It’s a great way to enjoy the great outdoors without leaving the comforts of home behind!

Have you ever done a staycation? We’d love to hear all about it in the comments!

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Celebrate you this summer!

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Celebrate YOU This Summer!

Chances are, your schedule will probably become pretty hectic this summer. Cookouts, weddings, sporting events, and other get-togethers will fill your days, nights, and weekends. But one thing you must never forget is to make some time for you. Just for you!

One way to make sure this happens is to write it down on a calendar—with a pen. Declare this time as sacred and non-negotiable. After all, there’s no denying we all need a few moments to enjoy some quiet “me” time on our own terms.

Here are a few suggestions on how to make that goal a reality:

  • Backyard Oasis: Sometimes all you need is a glass of lemonade, a hammock, a good book, or an iPod to shut the world out and relax. Be sure to set aside some time each week to just be by yourself and recharge your batteries.
  • Go Retro: Remember the ol’ days of listening to a baseball game on the radio? Relaxing on a veranda swing? Taking a nap? No? Well trust us, it’s worth a try. Every single one of them.
  • Party of One Always Has Fun: When was the last time you got to pick your dinner location, movie, or date activity? Well, it’s high time you took yourself out on a date! If you feel uncomfortable with the idea of dining alone, bring along a book or journal to write in. A few hours of solitude spent seeing a movie or wandering around a museum can also do wonders to calm the spirit.
  • Seasonal shopping: Summer is a great time for scouring outdoor flea markets and farmers’ markets. Take your time looking around and seeing what there is to offer. Ask a collector about their wares or a produce vendor about the proper way to prepare a vegetable you’ve never tried before. You’ll find yourself learning something new while at the same time having fun.
  • Expand your Crafting Education: Speaking of learning something new, have you always wanted to learn how to quilt, quill, or do another classic craft? Check out your local craft store’s class schedule and sign up to get started right away!
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Take on a creative challenge

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Take on a new creative challenge

Last week we shared a few fun ideas for hobbies, but this week we wanted to expand with a few that lean into your artistic side!

Did you know that learning a new skill could improve your brain function and help protect against cognitive decline? The brain is a complex and fascinating network of nerve fibers that respond to mental stimulation and exercise. But beyond the physiological benefits of trying a new hobby or craft, there are benefits to your self esteem as you expand your horizons, make time for yourself, and even have the opportunity to connect and share these hobbies with friends and family.

Put your crafting skills to the test with these fun creative challenge projects that are simple to master and then reap the unexpected benefits!

  • Knitting: What do Julia Roberts and Cameron Diaz know that you don’t? While some may guess that they know what it’s like to collect multi-million dollar paychecks (which may be true), the real answer is that they all know the joy and skill of knitting. Stitching and purling is not only rewarding in the sense that you are creating a new accessory and garment, but many find that the feel of needles and yarn to be relaxing. The craft is so popular, there is an entire social networking site dedicated to the craft!
  • Scrapbooking: Preserving family photos has come a long way from the days of just placing them into an album behind a plastic sheet. Today scrapbooking has grown into a multi-billion dollar business where “scrappers” (as they’re affectionately called) create personalized, multidimensional storybooks to be treasured for years to come. Many scrapbook companies and craft stores offer workshops, weekend scrapbooking retreats, and even cruise vacations to enjoy the hobby in the company of others. What better way to celebrate fond memories of the past while making new ones (and getting a suntan!) at the same time?
  • Cooking:  You don’t have to attend culinary school to tap into your inner Julia Child. We mentioned last week that trying new foods can be considered a hobby, but if you’re not already skilled in the culinary arts, attending a cooking class can expose you to new types of food, preparation techniques and a world of tastier and healthier meals with less processed ingredients. For a more laid back approach to the art, pair up with an adventurous friend and take turns hosting an evening where you cook together, learning a new recipe in unison.
  • Photography: We’ve often heard people described as “having an eye” for photography, but have you really given your eye the opportunity to flourish? Learning a little bit of composition and gaining a clear understanding of settings offered by your particular camera goes a long way in making you able to operate it confidently, and with ease. Once you’ve mastered the technical aspects, go out and express yourself while recording places, people, and occasions that are important to you. You never know, you could turn your love of photography into a new career!

Whatever new hobby you choose, selecting one that suits your lifestyle will benefit you tremendously… And if things go awry, at least you’ll have some fun anecdotes and you can be commended for giving it a try.

Do you consider yourself crafty? What’s your latest project? We’d love to hear about it in the comments!

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New hobbies (to do with friends!)

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New Hobbies to Do With Friends

If you search for the most popular hobbies today, you would learn that our society considers pretty much anything a hobby. In fact, we came across one list that included napping and watching TV! Not that there is anything wrong with either activity (who doesn’t love a nap?) but we were aiming for something…a little more creative to help us get through these last few weeks of winter.

However, the more we thought about it, the more we realized that most of the simple things everyone enjoys can also be opportunities for us to not only learn something new, but to spend quality time with our family and friends who may be suffering from a similar bout of cabin fever!

So, with that optimistic spring-forward view in mind, we compiled a few suggestions to transform leisurely activities into useful hobbies.

  • Start a book club: By forming a club based on your love of reading you not only gain more ideas to help you as you peruse bookstore aisles and library shelves, but you also get some much needed quality time and thoughtful conversation. To personalize your group, focus on topics, titles or authors that you have always wanted to read. If you really want to challenge yourself, come up with a goal of how many books you would like to complete by year’s end, and keep a running tab of how you are doing.
  • Get in the game: Video games have evolved from being the bane of parent’s existence to a great pastime for anyone in the family! Now, with the wide variety of games (including singing and dancing competitions) that get you up and going, you can add a little activity into every day without leaving your living room. Multi-task by spending some time with loved ones while burning off a little energy in the process. Set up a regular game night or begin a tournament to get your competitive juices flowing.
  • Create a whole new playlist: Musical tastes ebb and flow like few other forms of entertainment, but few hobbies are as universally appreciated. This year, embrace your love of music and expand your horizons by trying out new genres and performers. Research older artists that may fit your particular tastes or seek out new acts that friends enjoy. Whether adding to your playlist for the treadmill or taking in some fun concerts, the practice will certainly help you gain some appreciation for the medium.
  • Start a culinary quest: Checking out the latest restaurant, or simply enjoying a quiet dinner out, can be a challenge. Budgeting time and finances often leads to ordering in or making a quick meal instead of an outing. This year, spice things up by creating a small dinner club or schedule “dinner dates” with other couples every month. Enjoying a good meal and a quiet night can be the perfect anecdote to a long week, and making it a monthly practice will help ensure that your newest hobby is affordable while giving you something to look forward to.
  • Lights, camera, hobby: Few activities have been made more convenient over the past few years than enjoying a movie. You can make a night out of it by hitting the local movie-theater, rent a DVD or set up the ultimate Netflix queue. So, whether you are looking to host your own film festive live from your living room or revel in all of the subtleties that make a movie theater so charming, coordinate a regular movie night with friends and family.

By integrating entertainment into your life in a way that not only helps you to learn but also connect more with those close to you, you are sure to grow and have a lot of fun in the process. No matter what piques your interest, challenge yourself and be sure to include others to enhance your appreciation!

Do you have a new favorite hobby? We’d love to hear it in the comments!

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What Oscar Film Are You?

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What Oscar Film Are You?

With the 87th annual Academy Awards taking place this Sunday, now seems a good time to admit that the movies we love actually reflect a lot about our personalities. No matter who you will be rooting for this year, all of the nominees have joined the distinguished company of films that are treasured classics.

With more than seven decades of films to choose from, this year is the perfect time to find the oscar film that best reflects who you are (or at least get a few fun suggestions to add to your Netflix queue.) Here are some suggestions from our in-house movie lovers sure to fit any cinema-inspired personality.

Are you a romantic at heart?

Romantic films are not just mindless entertainment; they are escapist fun that moviegoers have enjoyed since the dawn of filmmaking. From classic tragedies to realistic comedies, the theme of real love has always been a popular one in Hollywood. Are you just like many of those top-level movie execs that just can’t help falling in love with people falling in love? If so, then here are a few films for you.

  • “The English Patient” (1996) is the film that proves the rule, “better to have loved and lost than to have never loved before.”
  • “Shakespeare in Love” (1998) scored a shocking upset to win the Best Picture award thanks to its literally Shakespearean balance of romance and comedy.
  • “Lost in Translation” (2003) paired Bill Murray and Scarlett Johansson as the unlikeliest of friends, let alone possible romantic partners.

Are you someone who enjoys a rewarding challenge?

If you enjoy your cinema on a grand scale than you are probably a fan of the big budget epic. If this is your genre of choice you are also likely to enjoy thought provoking material and activities that really engage your attention and intellect. Sticking with a film that spans years or that examines the enormity of a situation can be challenging, but it can also be very rewarding as well. If you prefer losing yourself in one of these tall tales here are a few suggestions for your viewing pleasure:

Are you always up for an adventure?

Films are supposed to take you away, and if your preference is to get lost in the suspense and tension a great thriller delivers, the action/adventure genre is for you. While big budget action films crowd the Cineplex every summer, some classics have been able to elevate the fun to a higher level of entertainment. Are you a thrill seeker always looking for a new experience? If so, here are a few examples of award winners you might enjoy (its not quite an extreme sport, but as far as movie viewing goes…)

  • “The Fugitive” (1993) followed Harrison Ford on his tireless quest to find the “one-armed man” who ruined his life.
  • “Apollo 13” (1995) made an unsuccessful trip to the moon, and the harrowing return home, edge of your seat entertainment.
  • “Gladiator” (2000) saw Russell Crowe fight for the honor of his family during the Roman era in what could be the most action packed Best Picture winner of all time.

Are you looking for a laugh?

Comedies have always had trouble at the Academy Awards, but they have also been one of the favorite genres of movie fans since the days of Charlie Chaplin and the silent film era. Classic film comedies connect us back to the memories or emotions we all share, proving that laughter is something we should enjoy together. Looking for a good laugh this spring? Check out one of these timeless titles:

  • “Four Weddings and a Funeral” (1994) launched the career of Hugh Grant and proved that there were films that could make good on the promise of comedy in a romantic comedy.
  • “Babe” (1995) may be the only Best Picture nominee in history to feature a talking pig, but fans loved the heartwarmingly amusing tale.
  • “Little Miss Sunshine” (2006) took a satirical look at beauty pageants and family dynamics.
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How To Beat The Winter Blues

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How to Beat the Winter BluesIs cabin fever cramping your style? You know the warning signs – lethargy, irritability and the inability to concentrate on anything but exotic trips to the tropics?

While sunny skies and warm weather are still months away, there’s plenty that can be done in the meantime to beat the winter doldrums. Even if you’re south of the Maxon-Dixon line, chillier weather can take its toll on you. From indoor entertaining to braving the elements, our experts at American Greetings would like to offer up the following tips on how to beat the winter blues–and keep the whole family entertained!

  • Set sails for sunny skies… in your living room! Have a warm weather movie night by bumping up the heat a few degrees (or pull out some warm blankets) and trick yourself into a summer mindset with a classic summer camp movie, such as Indian Summer, The Parent Trap or Meatballs.
  • Break up the monotony with a little Monopoly: Host a board game night with friends to bring everyone out of their igloos. Keep the menu simple and stress-free with cold weather favorites grilled cheese sandwiches and tomato soup.
  • Project time: Whether it’s cleaning out a neglected closet, organizing your recipes or family photos, or finishing a craft project, winter provides a great opportunity to stop procrastinating. You’ll feel proud of your accomplishment and happier in your newly clutter-free home.
  • Weeknight fun: Avoid workweek hibernation mode by breaking it up with meeting friends for coffee, visiting a relative or even a little retail therapy.
  • Find your inner peace: Take time for yourself to contemplate, meditate and de-stress. Whether you take up yoga, start journaling or just set aside some time for yourself, you’ll be glad that you did!
  • Create your 101 things in 1001 days list: Select 101 goals you would like to accomplish in the next 1001 days and come up with a plan to achieve them. Goals can be as simple as wanting to learn how to knit, as practical as paying down debt or as adventurous as bungee jumping.
  • Take a mental vacation: Since we don’t all have the ability to become globetrotters, try visiting your local library to select a travel book or DVD to learn about a new place. It might even inspire you to plan for your next vacation!
  • If you can’t beat ‘em, join ‘em: Ice skating, skiing, sledding or even a short walk out in the winter wonderland offers the benefits of increased energy, an uplifted spirit and stress relief.

What’s your best tip for alleviating cabin fever?

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A Little Daily Dose of Adorable

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It’s no secret that we love, love, love our friend and content partner, Taylor Swift, and are super excited about her new album! Her most recent single release, “Shake it Off” not only has all of our favorite Swifties on Twitter abuzz, but it has parents and kids shaking it off together in living rooms and kitchens across the country. And who doesn’t love a stress-relieving dance party?!

This completely adorable daddy and daughter video caught our eye this morning and we just had to share!

Hopefully this inspires you to turn on some tunes, grab someone you love, and dance your way through life!

Do you have a big Taylor Swift fan in your life? Watch her “Shake it Off” video here.

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How to Make a Child’s Christmas Magical

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Top Ways to Track Santa's Sleigh

The tradition of Santa Claus is passed down generation after generation, and kids of all ages like to celebrate and keep the spirit of Kris Kringle alive. In today’s tech-savvy world, it is a little more challenging than it used to be, but with a little bit of internet wizardry, you can add to the sense of wonder at the heart of the holiday season. Here are a few awe-inspiring websites and apps to help you keep Santa’s story going strong for another year.

Track Santa Across the World

Your child can track Santa’s progress across the globe on Christmas Eve with the help of a few very qualified experts!
Due to a happy accident, the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) introduced the tradition of tracking Santa’s journey back in 1955. A misprinted Sears ad encouraged children to call a “direct line to Santa,” but the incorrect phone number actually redirected to the Colorado Springs Continental Air Defense Command. The good-natured agency rose to the occasion, and all staff were briefed to give Santa’s “current location” to any eager young callers.

Fast forward almost 60 years and the experience is considerably more captivating. Starting December 1, the NORAD Tracks Santa website provides descriptions of the technology used to follow Santa.  As he flies on Christmas Eve, it will be updated hourly with “Santa Cam” videos of his sleigh flying over famous landmarks around the world. The very serious and official nature of NORAD lends credibility to the whole affair for a fun, educational, and very convincing experience.

After a few years of partnering with NORAD, Google Maps branched out on their own in 2012. The Google Santa Tracker is very interactive, with mini games and animations in the style of Google Doodles. The link will be available on the Google home page, but you can also follow along on free apps for Apple and Android. It’s a good companion to NORAD’s offering and a fun way to keep kids engaged in those last long hours before the big day!

FaceTime with Santa

A video call from Santa himself will absolutely amaze your little ones. The Video Calls From Santa app is designed to look like a real Facetime call with the big man himself. You can leave Santa a voicemail, or call a number for “Nice” or “Naughty” — which may come in handy as a pre-Christmas behavior modification tool! This one will probably work best for the under-five set, but knowing Santa’s number is a surefire way to impress the whole family.

Send a Talking Santa Ecard

An ecard from American Greetings lets you send a completely personalized message to kids from Santa. Simply type what you’d like the animated Santa on the card to say in the voice you choose, or you can record a message by phone. There are two different Santa’s to choose from, Santa’s List and Dear Santa. It’s available when you sign up for a free trial of American Greetings’ ecards and is sure to inspire a lot of smiles.

In addition to the Santa talking ecards, AmericanGreetings.com offers a wide variety of Christmas ecards. Make the season sparkle with traditional, funny, cute or religious animated ecards.  You can even personalize a special Christmas song to send to your friends and family.

Provide Evidence After the Fact

This inexpensive and easy-to-use Santa photo editing tool lets you insert a realistic image of Santa visiting your home on Christmas Eve. When the kids wake up on Christmas morning, you can proudly display the proof that you caught Santa in the act. Cue the wide eyes and excited questions!
These are our favorite examples of the many amazing Christmas resources online, so it’s worth a search! It’s heartwarming to know that people all over the world are committed to keeping Christmas magical in new and innovative ways. Children today might be a lot more sophisticated than we were, but technology is helping parents stay one step ahead to provide some of the most treasured Christmas memories of a lifetime.

What’s your favorite way to make the season magical?

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