However, we all know there is one season that outshines them all when it comes to messages—Christmas.
With the need to write so many messages for so many people, creativity can run a little bit low, and you may struggle to put together the right words for the right person.
That’s where we come in.
We have compiled a collection of Christmas card messages for different social groups and circumstances—all easy to write, customize, and deliver to brighten someone’s holidays.
For their birthday, there is nothing they want more than experiencing something new and out of the ordinary. So, for their birthday, ditch your preconceived notions and embrace giving them unique and exciting things.
Of course, that includes birthday card messages. Instead of a regular, boring “Happy Birthday” message, we have compiled a collection of funny and charming joke greetings for your favorite adventurous Sagittarius.
Sagittarius’s symbol is the archer, often represented as a centaur. It makes sense, considering how spirited and adventurous they are—their pace is intense, and they never stop.
Keeping up with Sagittarius is a different issue altogether, so playfully reminding them to slow down and enjoy their birthday at ease.
A message highlighting Sagittarius’ spirit of adventure, it oozes charm and playfulness. However, beyond being a funny joke, it is also a good reminder that being alive is perhaps their biggest adventure.
It may not be as thrilling or exciting as what they’re used to, but it’s worth celebrating and enjoying just the same.
Being friends with a Sagittarius is an endless source of fun thanks to their mischievous personality, playful jokes, and zany sense of humor.
During their birthday, let them know that you appreciate that part of their personality—the spontaneity they bring wherever they go. It will make them look forward to the next year!
Few signs are as witty and clever as Sagittarius; nothing escapes their sharp senses and their even sharper sense of humor, both of which always hit with an aim as straight as deadly as an arrow.
Bring a smile to their face by acknowledging that truly, they always know it all.
Consciously and subconsciously, Sagittarius folks always try to liven up the environment they’re in, as they’re mood-makers by nature.
However, it’s nice for them to sit back and relax once a year—let others do the merriment thing for them instead. Just be aware that you’re volunteering to take the role with this card!
Sagittarius’ sense of adventure often takes them to slightly dangerous paths. For them, life is about enjoying the ride, not the destination, and being with them makes you the copilot.
This card message highlights how much you enjoy traveling through life with them.
]]>However, there are concise and meaningful ways to transmit that spirit of togetherness in a simple card message. To give you a hand during this busy season, we have compiled a collection of Thanksgiving messages fit for friends, family, lovers, and even work colleagues.
Due to the nature of Thanksgiving, all these messages focus on gratitude for the blessings received throughout the years. However, do not be afraid to spice them up with your own words!
Succinct and profound, this popular anonymous quote summarizes the concept of a good family and the overall spirit of Thanksgiving.
Best meant for lovers, partners, close friends, or family, this quote highlights the importance of appreciating the good people that make our life a tad bit brighter.
This extract from A Thanksgiving Poem by CJ Beaman gives the spotlight to the true protagonist of Thanksgiving—delicious food. Share it with your foodie acquaintances or those who love a good rhyme!
This message is a classic Thanksgiving sentiment that is a tried-and-true approach to cards everywhere. Honest and direct, it is versatile enough to work for close friends and distant acquaintances alike.
Tailor-made for the office, this message is excellent for close coworkers or bosses as it perfectly balances professionalism and warm gratitude.
Best suited for friends and family with a sense of humor, this tongue-in-cheek message highlights the importance of family while acknowledging that it’s okay to be a bit exasperated with them at times.
A poetic declaration with lovely romantic undertones, it can show your partner or that special someone how sometimes the little things are the most valuable ones and how the joy of loving and being loved is a quintessential Thanksgiving value.
]]>If your partner, relative, friend, or acquaintance is a sun Scorpio, you must know by now that their strength and intensity lie underneath the surface. Mysterious and calm, they come across as aloof yet carry a passion that makes them nothing short of magnetic.
Naturally, this means Scorpios tend to be a tad bit extra—and they unleash it all during their birthday. Celebrate the Scorpios in your life with grand messages and equally charming birthday cards.
To give you a hand, we have compiled five different messages tailor-made for Scorpios and their intensity.
The inner passion and profound power of Scorpios may make you believe they’re a fire sign, but don’t be fooled—they have the deep emotions and intuition of a water sign.
As someone close to them, you get to see both their cool and fiery moments—acknowledging those during their birthday is a great way to show you appreciate everything they are.
Scorpios being “a riddle wrapped in a mystery inside an enigma” is so well-known it’s almost a stereotype, yet it is nothing but the truth.
It takes time for Scorpios to open up and talk about their rich inner world, so take pride in being one of the few people who get to know the real them and let them know how much you value it.
This message is tailor-made for a specific type of Sun Scorpio folks—those that are so typical that you wonder if their moon and rising are also under the watchful eye of the scorpion.
If that person showcases the undeniable allure of Scorpios and their typical cool attitude in life, then you have a good and loyal ally in your life—let them know on their birthday.
Scorpios are born to get to the top of whatever they aim for. Luckily, their birthday is the one time when they are always the star without requiring endless effort and work—which they’re always ready to provide.
But during their birthday? Let them chill, relax, and bask in the glory they deserve.
Very few signs can hold grudges like Scorpios—they never forget a debt or a slight, even if they love their friends to death.
Poke a little fun at your close Scorpio friend while subtly begging for mercy from their unwavering determination, at least for a day!
]]>Birthdays are the best chance to celebrate the importance of that special friend in your life. Let them know how much you love them with five awesome birthday greetings that convey the depth of your emotion in a few short words.
Hilarious jokes, heartfelt messages, and succinct phrases—all of them have a space here. Choose the one that represents your bond the best.
Not every friendship is made out of flowery words and tear-jerking poetry.
For those friends that like to go to the point and be direct, this quick and straightforward message conveys affection without much purple prose.
It is short and sweet and perfectly conveys the importance of your friendship and the happiness of celebrating a birthday with that person.
Acquaintances can have casual conversations about any topic, but real friends are the ones that exchange profound secrets and struggles, supporting one another in that journey we call life.
Why not make a little joke about it?
With this humorous and witty birthday greeting, you can let your friend know just how important this bond is to you while giving them a chance to smile as they read it.
Even if you’re not usually the mushy type, birthdays are a great occasion to give friends heartfelt messages that express how much we love them.
If your friend has made your life a little bit better just by existing, let them know with this sweet and meaningful birthday greeting—odds are the feeling is mutual, and you might just make their special day a little bit brighter in return.
While some friendship groups and dynamics balance the cool cucumbers and hot-headed, others are made by equally silly partners-in-crime.
If you and your friend love to scheme nonsense together, this card is just for you. In just a few words, you’ll remind the birthday bestie that you two are a terrible influence on one another—in the best, most fun way possible.
A good friendship can be like a road trip—you’re cruising life together, supporting one another as you go through twists and turns right by each other’s side.
And for those audacious explorers, this incredible quote highlights the journey aspect of friendship and birthdays. The best part? In the end, it implicitly highlights your promise to join your friend for the next 365 days of adventure.
]]>Sometimes you cannot convey such emotion to that person. But for the lucky ones that can, there are many ways to express the heartfelt longing you have towards those you love.
Sometimes a simple “I miss you” is not enough, so here are ten ways to say it—funny, romantic, bittersweet, and everything in between.
Coined by S.L. Gray in Skin, Bones, and Too Much Love, this short but heartfelt phrase oozes longing thanks to the vividly romantic atmosphere it paints.
Missing someone makes time go slowly—the minutes, hours, and days until the next meeting simply feels endless. Without explicitly saying I miss you, this line conveys that agonizing anticipation.
As a small break from the bittersweet, this quote conveys yearning in a witty and playful way. This hilarious figure of speech is perfect if your card’s primary purpose is to bring a huge smile to someone’s face.*
Sometimes it’s best not to hide sadness. Distance can make even the strongest heart feel sorrow, and there is no sense in denying it. This message may be somewhat gloomy, but it conveys how much you miss that important person.
This magnificent quote from Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird highlights a prevalent feeling when missing someone—loneliness. With this poetic imagery, you can let that person know they are always on your mind.
When you miss someone, it isn’t always gloomy. However, sometimes that emotion can be as overwhelming as the ocean—this quote highlights the sensation and makes for an excellent card to portray longing.
Once again, another quote that highlights how time feels eternal when you miss someone you love. It’s a simple and direct line showcasing how much you care without additional fanfare. Just direct emotion.
This beautiful quote by Claudia Adrienne Grandi paints gorgeous imagery. Missing someone is not just a painful experience—it also means you can reminisce about important memories with that person.
Some people make us smile with their presence, so we are left helpless when they leave. Sending a card with this message relays a bittersweet message—you may be sad, but there is joy in the future as soon as you meet.
The previous entries have been incredible—whimsical, creative, profound, and funny. However, sometimes the best way to convey how much you miss someone is by being upfront with your desire to meet again.
The optimism for a future meeting is the bright side of the loneliness inside can feel like that very distant land.
]]>Known as the mediators of the zodiac, Libras are approachable, friendly, and witty souls that enrichen your life with their mere presence. Naturally extroverted and friendly, they are always paragons for justice—not to mention they ooze charm and style!
When it’s time to celebrate these easygoing and laidback fellows, keep in mind they are continuously working hard to guarantee harmony in your social circles, even if you don’t always notice. During their special day, it’s good to recognize their efforts and let them know they are the group’s heart.
Although you surely have plenty to say to that loveable Libra in your life, here are some ideas on what you could say to get started on your greeting card.
As part of the communicative and quick-thinking air sign family, Libras have an irresistible type of witty charm that draws people in. Naturally, this means that the Libra person you’re sending the card to is well-loved by those close to them—including you!
Libras are a valuable part of every group they’re in, so a message highlighting these appealing traits will put a smile on their faces.
If there is something that Libras die for, it is justice. They are clever idealists at their core and love to use their diplomatic skills to call out inequalities according to their perceptions. That is why they are so good at soothing misunderstandings and solving conflicts.
However, all that problem-solving has to take its toll. Remind them that what they do is valuable, but taking some “treat yourself” time is also important.
This message is tailor-made for that one close Libra friend you just can’t imagine life without. Everyone who has met a Libra knows they are chatty and like good gossip, but in the best way possible.
There is nothing more fun than spending hours just talking with a Libra friend, and isn’t that one of the best things in the world?
Intuitive and perceptive, Libras can pinpoint everyone’s worries, anxieties, and problems. That makes them natural mood-makers and mediators, but it can also lead to burnout—after all, they can neglect themselves while mediating everyone else.
With this sweet and thoughtful message, you remind them that they matter too. They shine bright with just their presence, so taking the central stage on a special occasion is what they deserve.
]]>But while written words can never replace the warmth of a hug or the joy from hearing your voice, a strategically chosen card birthday card can steal a smile from her or even shed a tear of joy.
To give you an idea of what to write on your beloved mother’s birthday card, here are six birthday wishes that range from the warm to the silly—all tailor-made to bring happiness to her life.
Our journey in life begins with the sacrifice of our mothers as they carry us in their wombs, and it only grows from there.
This warm and heartfelt birthday wish acknowledges that reality and promises to give her endless love in return. And sometimes, that is what a mother wants the most.
Having someone who loves you, encourages you, and supports you unconditionally is nothing short of a blessing—a miracle to appreciate and love.
Odds are, your mother is that miracle. Let her know that you keep her in your prayers so that she can be as happy as she has made you.
To a mom with a sense of humor, one of the best gifts you can give her is a card with a hilarious message highlighting one universal truth—there is simply no upstaging her in the gift department.
For many people, their mom is the most extraordinary woman they know. And you know what? They are all right—every loved mom is the world’s greatest woman for their children.
But just like that, for every loving mom, her kids’ opinions are the most valuable words. Conclusion? Let her know how much she means to you.
This one is meant for those with siblings—rub in their faces that you are mom’s favorite with this card. Just keep in mind that we can’t guarantee she will agree with you.
Age is only a number, and youth—much like groove—is in the heart. After years of responsibilities and putting everyone before her, mom earned the right to have a little bit of crazy fun, and this card reminds her that the best years are yet to come.
]]>It may not be the most fun thing to figure out about your wedding, but practicality is still important. You can’t choose the perfect wedding venue if you don’t even know how much money you can actually spend on it. Deciding on a budget beforehand will also help narrow down a lot of options. Unless you happen to have an unlimited budget, the budget you do create will help inform you about which options are feasible and which ones you need to pass on.
A useful tip for selecting a wedding venue you’ll love is to consider what you want the vibe of your wedding to be. An extremely classy, black-tie affair won’t make a lot of sense if your venue is out in the country somewhere. Even before you have decorations, food, or entertainment planned, you certainly have some idea about the vibe you want to go for. Use that knowledge to further narrow down your options.
While a wedding should certainly be for the benefit of the people getting married, you can’t deny the fact that you’ll have to ask a lot of different people to dedicate one of their days to you. Because of this, you should keep your guest list in mind when deciding on a venue. Destination weddings are wonderful affairs, but not as much if no one can come to it because they can’t afford the trip.
Whether it’s a venue in a wide open field or a venue in the heart of NYC, you should consider the kinds of memories you want to make when you choose a place. Photographs of the wedding are how you can keep the magic and the emotions of the day alive for many years into the future. You can do a lot worse than choosing a place to get married based on how photogenic the area is.
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Birthdays are the best chance to celebrate the importance of that special friend in your life. Let them know how much you love them with five awesome birthday greetings that convey the depth of your emotion in a few short words.
Hilarious jokes, heartfelt messages, and succinct phrases—all of them have a space here. Choose the one that represents your bond the best. Below are a few messages you can write inside of a birthday card for a a friend.
Not every friendship is made out of flowery words and tear-jerking poetry.
For those friends that like to go to the point and be direct, this quick and straightforward message conveys affection without much purple prose.
It is short and sweet and perfectly conveys the importance of your friendship and the happiness of celebrating a birthday with that person.
Acquaintances can have casual conversations about any topic, but real friends are the ones that exchange profound secrets and struggles, supporting one another in that journey we call life.
Why not make a little joke about it?
With this humorous and witty birthday greeting, you can let your friend know just how important this bond is to you while giving them a chance to smile as they read it.
Even if you’re not usually the mushy type, birthdays are a great occasion to give friends heartfelt messages that express how much we love them.
If your friend has made your life a little bit better just by existing, let them know with this sweet and meaningful birthday greeting—odds are the feeling is mutual, and you might just make their special day a little bit brighter in return.
While some friendship groups and dynamics balance the cool cucumbers and hot-headed, others are made by equally silly partners-in-crime.
If you and your friend love to scheme nonsense together, this card is just for you. In just a few words, you’ll remind the birthday bestie that you two are a terrible influence on one another—in the best, most fun way possible.
A good friendship can be like a road trip—you’re cruising life together, supporting one another as you go through twists and turns right by each other’s side.
And for those audacious explorers, this incredible quote highlights the journey aspect of friendship and birthdays. The best part? In the end, it implicitly highlights your promise to join your friend for the next 365 days of adventure.
]]>Send your friends a reminder of your love as we head into the new year. Explore some of the best gifts to get the sweet tooth in your life. From baskets to recipe books and everything in between, we’ve got what you need!
We love the idea of a more hand-picked gift basket rather than one you buy at a store. Think about getting a variety of luxury chocolates, like chocolate-covered truffles. Those will instantly elevate your gift!
You can also include some of the following:
The options are limitless!
Now, we understand that not every person with a sweet tooth likes to bake, but if your giftee does, this is a terrific route to go. There are tons of options out there, so try to narrow it down by thinking about what sort of treats they enjoy.
Are they a cupcake person? A cookie person? Maybe they enjoy a nice cake? There are recipe books for each persons’ taste profile, so personalize the gift for them!
This is a gift that can last for months to come! Subscription boxes are a beloved gift for many since it ensures the giftee will consistently get reminders of your love for them. They make many types as well, so maybe the sweet tooth in your life would prefer a myriad of sour candy or candies from all over the world.
At the end of the day, what matters is that you can let them decide what they want to have delivered to their doorstep!
The last item in our quick gift guide to the best gifts to get the sweet tooth in your life is equipment! Whether you go more luxurious with a Kitchen Aid mixer or something sweet and simple, like a doughnut maker, there are tons of sweet treat equipment options to choose from. It could even be a soft-serve ice cream maker. Think about what they like to eat and what brings a smile to their face—that’s the gift to give!
Spread happiness year-round. Give the gift of sweetness!
]]>It’s always a good idea to spend quality time with your family. This doesn’t have to mean big vacations or complicated plans (although those are always welcome). Sometimes, family time is as simple as eating dinner around the table together or enjoying a couple of movie or game nights throughout the month.
Remember to include the kids in this family planning. If you decide what to do every time you hang out together, you might end up with reluctant kids who dread family time. Instead, give everyone a chance to pick the activity. Rotate through everyone’s favorite movie. Take the family skating or bowling if that’s what the kids enjoy. Try out your kid’s favorite video game just to see what the buzz is about. When the whole family supports each other’s interests, it’s a lot easier—and a lot more fun—to spend quality time together.
Parents—especially newer parents—want to be around for everything. It’s natural to want to help, supervise, and know what’s going on with your kid. But independence is the key to growing and learning. If you don’t cultivate independence in your children, you can’t set them up for success once they’re out of the house.
Every age calls for different types of independence. Support older kids while encouraging them to discover who they are by being open and accepting without hovering. Let younger kids learn how to do something themselves by giving them a chance to explore and attempt new things on their own before you step in. You can even encourage more independence in your baby or toddler by letting them lead the way when learning new skills. Baby-led weaning is a great example of how to safely let your little one lead the way as they develop new skills.
Technology lets us stay in touch with loved ones, learn new things, and stay up to date with news and entertainment. Unfortunately, too much screen time is detrimental to anyone’s health. Balancing necessary technology with a healthy amount of screen time is one of the most meaningful parenting goals for the upcoming year. The trick is to find worthwhile alternatives to spending time on your phone or laptop.
Lead by example. Start reading more and encouraging the rest of the family to follow suit. Leave your phone in the other room during game nights. Suggest more outdoor activities for family time. Instead of strictly limiting screen time and taking away devices when you’ve hit that limit, create fun and healthy opportunities to get you away from your screens together.
]]>So here are a couple of ways to donate to military families during the holiday. By setting time aside to help, their holiday spirit will grow, and they’ll cherish the positive impact you made from giving them great memories.
When a person gets discharged from active duty, it’s usually from fulfilling their quota and doing various good acts. However, some aren’t so lucky and leave their time in the military with emotional and physical trauma.
One of the beautiful ways you can help is by supporting wounded warriors. You can find support funds and fundraisers for families of wounded warriors, such as those with traumatic brain injuries or psychological health conditions. Additionally, they receive top-quality rehabilitation to help further their recovery.
Many military families don’t have their spouses or partners home to celebrate holidays. Active military troops sometimes don’t get the chance to return home, leaving their families without them to celebrate. So get in touch with some local military families that want to have some company during the season.
If you have children, bring them around their kids and get to know each other. Bring over a meal, some coffee, or even suggest movies everyone can watch together. It’s an excellent way for them to feel appreciated.
Providing those in need with practical gifts can help them in the long run. However, some military families struggle to find gifts. One of the positive ways to donate to military families is by helping them finish their holiday gift list.
Take the time to look over holiday gift lists from military families through online resources. You register through the website, and they’ll provide you with the necessary gifts the family requested. From there, you can purchase the presents and send them off!
During the holidays, giving back is a great way to help others. You can find local foundations and drives to help military families get through the following year. Whether you donate money or physical goods, it feels like a good thing.
Just make sure you know if you are donating to the right cause. See if your local fundraiser or military charity supports the troops progressively and positively.
Doing your part by making military families feel loved is a great way to spend the holidays. Once you’ve done your part, keep doing it, and you’ll make a huge impact.
]]>You’ve spent potentially days planning a stunning outfit that is sure to impress other guests, so don’t ruin the ensemble with a plain, informal coat. Throwing a puffy jacket over a dress or suit completely negates the elegance of your clothing.
Opt for nicer winter gear like peacoats, insulated blazers, or flattering dusters that protect you from cold weather without sacrificing your outfit. Longer overgarments are your best option because they complement your wardrobe and warm more parts of your body.
The key to great formal winter attire is incorporating elegant yet smart layers. Basically, opt for fewer layers that look fancy and adequately keep you warm. Over-layering looks bulky, messy, and is a nuisance to deal with once inside.
Because of this, different types of sweaters are your best friends and allow you to limit articles of clothing from your outfit without succumbing to the elements. The best options are cardigans or nicely-knit wool pullovers—quarter-length zip-ups work well over a collared shirt, too.
The most crucial step for knowing how to dress for a formal event in the winter is ensuring you don’t clash with your fancy outfit. A mash-up of differently patterned or colored layers quickly ruins the elegance of a nice ensemble.
If your outfit is predominately muted colors and tones, your winter wear should match that. Additionally, your clothing materials should be consistent and complementary, so don’t mix cheap synthetic fabrics with wool or fine cotton.
Don’t stress over what to wear this winter—with a bit of attention to detail, your formal outfit game will never take a season off. Always stick to the dress code of any event and ensure your physical well-being by staying protected.
]]>But just because past resolutions didn’t end up being the life-changing choices we thought they’d be doesn’t mean they’re impossible. The trick is to look for New Year’s resolution ideas you can actually stick to. We have four to get you started.
Many of us have lofty dreams of “traveling more” for New Year’s. But getting out to the Bahamas isn’t always in the budget, and you never know when a global catastrophe will put your beach-bum dreams on hold.
If the Caribbean isn’t going to cut it, try shifting your travel dreams to going anywhere new. After all, many of our hometowns and home states have hidden gems we didn’t know of. Make it a goal to visit a few of them before the year’s out, whether it’s a state park or a restaurant on the other end of town.
Here’s another common resolution that most of us have trouble sticking to: “eating healthier.” And here’s why—it’s too broad. Does eating “healthier” mean never eating sugar again? Are you switching to a vegan diet?
Instead of cutting everything delicious out of your life, try adding a little more variety by trying something new. There’s a couple of ways you can do this:
Focusing on eating different types of food will naturally add more good things to your diet, whether fruits, vegetables, or healthy meats. Trust us; your body and your taste buds will thank you.
Many of us start the new year by purging our closets. This creates a perfect opportunity to take stock of your threads and decide whether it’s time to refresh your wardrobe. A wardrobe refresh will look different depending on your lifestyle, but here are a few ways you can go about it:
If those resolutions seem overwhelming, don’t stress. Even resolving to drop a few items from your closet and add a few new pieces counts as giving your wardrobe a refresh.
Sometimes, the most significant resolutions we can make are the ones that impact our perspective. Making up your mind to appreciate everything in your life can change your life.
Hug your kids a little longer, and enjoy the feeling of the sun on your face. Enjoy being alive; that’s one New Year’s resolution you can actually stick to.
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“Whether you are ready to return to public fitness centers or are pursuing an at-home workout routine, the same priorities may remain key: daily exercise, proper nutrition and sufficient sleep,” said Dr. Donna O’Shea, chief medical officer of population health, UnitedHealthcare.
To help with those efforts, here are three strategies to consider to help make health a priority year-round.
Round out your home workout routine. While public gyms and group exercise classes may have appeal for many people, working out at home may have several advantages. At-home exercise is typically less expensive than a gym membership, which may also help improve your financial fitness. Exercising at home may provide greater flexibility and convenience when incorporating a workout into a daily routine, while offering a more private experience. To help make the most of your at-home exercise efforts, consider investing in resistance bands, which generally are an inexpensive, space-saving option that may help with pre-workout warmups and options for strength training. A pair of adjustable-weight dumbbells may offer versatility, enabling scalable resistance to help improve your strength. Finally, heart rate monitors or activity trackers may help you evaluate performance during individual workouts and over time, while digital fitness apps may provide helpful instruction.
Make movement a priority. Even if you don’t have a limited or full gym setup at home, it is crucial to still stay active and not fall into the trap of participating only in sedentary activities, such as binge-watching the latest TV series or movies. Consider taking short walks frequently throughout the day, aiming for six separate “mini-walks” of at least 300 to 500 steps. To help enhance cardiovascular fitness, consider at least one 30-minute “brisk walk” of at least 2,000 to 3,000 steps each day. To help build endurance, consider working toward 8,000 to 10,000 aggregate steps per day. Moving more and sitting less may help boost the immune system, ease joint pain and curb cravings for high-sugar foods that may contribute to inflammation and disease, according to a recent study.
Identify intrinsic and extrinsic motivators. In general, people may be motivated by a combination of intrinsic factors, such as wanting to maintain a healthy weight, and extrinsic factors, such as financial rewards. Daily exercise may offer several intrinsic motivators, given research has shown consistent movement may help ward off depression and prevent issues like heart disease. To potentially earn incentives for pursuing healthier habits, it’s important to note that a majority of U.S. employers offer well-being programs, many of which include financial rewards for healthy activities such as walking, going to the gym or meeting certain health benchmarks (e.g., cholesterol levels, body mass index or non-nicotine use). Importantly, some health plans offer access to wearable devices that may enable people to earn more than $1,000 per year in financial incentives for meeting certain daily activity goals.
Following these tips may help you make well-being a priority, while encouraging healthier habits that may eventually translate to meaningful improvements.
The information provided is for general informational purposes only and is not intended to be, nor should be construed as, medical advice. Check with your doctor to determine what activity level is right for you.
~ Brandpoint (BPT)]]>From capturing those split-second cute poses to setting up the ideal seasonal image, dog photography is a big trend. A recent survey found that most dog owners (65%) admit to taking more photos of their dog than their significant other. However, getting the ultimate shot can be trickier than it seems, even for seasoned pet photographers.
No matter your experience with pet photography, there are some tips and tricks that can help you get the ideal pictures of your canine counterparts. The photography experts at Adobe share some methods for taking pet pictures that you'll cherish for years to come.
Balance lighting
Good lighting is essential for any type of photography. If too much light is coming from behind, your dog will appear darker. If too much light is in front, it may wash out your pup. Keep in mind, fur absorbs light differently than skin, so experiment to see how changes in lighting impact the photograph. Natural light is typically best, not only for the resulting image, but also because many pets are sensitive to flash.
Use a fast shutter speed
No matter your pup's personality, they'll probably be moving in some manner as you try to photograph. If you're using a tablet or smartphone, switch the settings for an action shot. If you're using a camera, opt for a faster shutter speed. This will help ensure that your pup’s excitement doesn't turn into a disappointing photo when you review the image and it's a big blur.
Know the dog's personality
Some dogs adore affection and will melt for back scratches and belly rubs. Some pets go gaga for a game of fetch. Some just can't resist their favorite treat. Whatever the dog's preferred ways to feel loved, use them to your advantage during your photo session. This will help make them feel comfortable, encourage cooperation and keep their attention.
Make some quick edits
A few simple edits after you take a picture can elevate the image significantly. When on the go, Lightroom presets allow you to seamlessly edit your photos in one click from your mobile device. Lightroom offers thousands of presets to choose from, and even more can be found in Lightroom Discover.
Trust the process
You may have an idea of what you want to create, but in the end it's the pets who determine the context of the photo, which is part of the magic. Remember to mix candid and posed photography to get a nice variety and just keep clicking. You never know what might be captured and the beauty of digital photography is that there is no limit to how many photos you can take.
~ Brandpoint (BPT)
]]>Before you finalize your purchase and put money down on a ring you’re not impressed with, learn how you can make your engagement ring unique and find the perfect piece of jewelry that accurately captures you and your future fiancé’s bond.
If you and your fiancé think that the traditional diamond ring lacks originality and color, skip the diamonds altogether and use a different gemstone! Many couples choose to use a colorful gemstone that they feel represents their love more accurately than diamonds do. Alternatively, if you still want the durability of a diamond but want color on the ring, find a jeweler that uses colorful diamonds and use those instead.
Are you still hard set on purchasing a white diamond ring but want color in the design? Consider using a different color of precious metal for the base of the ring itself. Rose gold and white gold are popular choices, but you may also consider black gold for an even more unique twist on the typical engagement ring.
Sometimes, a ring with personality doesn’t require you to design anything—there are plenty of vintage and antique engagement rings with retro styles and incredible individuality. Search online and in antique stores for a ring that calls out to you; you never know what sort of unique designs you’ll find until you see them.
Remember: vintage engagement rings require special care, and some may even require restoration. Even if you find a weathered or damaged ring with potential, you can use it to inspire a new piece or touch it up for a truly special engagement ring with a story.
Ring engravings aren’t always an anniversary date or you and your spouse’s names. There are plenty of unique laser engravings that can add a unique, subtle touch to your already beautiful engagement ring—you just need to use your creativity. Consider etching the visual representation of soundwaves for a part of your favorite song or a favorite phrase. Even a simple “I love you” soundwave personalizes the ring for your beloved.
Other engravings you can include on the inside of your ring are:
If you don’t want to get an engraving inside the ring or already have an engraving, consider a laser etching on the gemstone itself! Though a tiny engraving at the bottom of your cut diamond may not seem that meaningful, it’s a subtle method of how you can make your engagement ring unique that only you, your partner, and anyone else you show the ring to will know.
]]>One of the easiest ways to decompress after having a tough time is to take a seat and put on something you’ve seen a dozen times before. It’s psychologically relieving to watch something you’re very acquainted with; the familiar characters and plots can be extremely comforting when you feel overwhelmed.
Watching a movie or show is a very passive experience, so it doesn’t demand anything of you besides your attention. After a long day, sometimes you also just need to take a seat for a while.
If sitting around isn’t doing the trick, you may want to try something a little more involved and look into some creative hobbies. These can be anything like drawing, journaling, woodworking, gardening—whatever captures your interest and serves to calm you down.
Doing something with your hands and watching something you create unfold before your eyes can make you feel accomplished, serving as a way to take control of the day. When you finish, you have something you made by yourself, something that came from you channeling the stress of the day and making it something constructive.
Alternatively, if you feel a degree of pent-up energy, going out for a walk around the neighborhood can be an equally relaxing experience. Enjoy the calm scenery outside, whether it be a calming wind, swaying trees, or taking a rest in an open field. Spending time outdoors can refresh the body and soothe the mind.
When you want to mix things up, you can always travel to your nearest local forest preserve to spend some time in the natural world. Explore the flora and fauna of your area and get lost among the trails; often, many people just need to experience the fresh outdoor air to get rid of their stress.
One of the cornerstones of self-care is to realize how you can relieve stress after a tough day. If you allow your tension and anxiety to fester for too long, it can have several negative effects on the body, both mental and physiological. Always take the time out of your day to ensure you take proper care of yourself.
]]>Consider a small wedding where everyone can be part of your entourage. If each person you invite is a close friend or relative, you will want them near you throughout the day. Plus, they’ll be able to feature in your photos.
Weddings with fewer than 50 guests qualify as small—that’s 25 guests per side, not including a plus one. However, that’s what you want to aim for. Weddings begin to get more expensive as you add more guests, so the best way to keep it budget-friendly is to keep your wedding small. Otherwise, you may have to reserve a larger venue and buy more food.
A major perk to having a small wedding vs. a large one is that you’ll have more room for customizing your party. You can find easy ways to personalize your wedding, from the food to the invitations. You’ll spend less on customizations when you have fewer guests to provide for.
One thing to keep in mind about intimate weddings is the entertainment. It can be challenging to get everyone to dance and enjoy themselves at large weddings. Think about your guests and what might get them to stay and have a good time. Possible experiences include:
An intimate event gives you the opportunity to spend time with the people you love most. Follow these helpful tips for planning a small wedding to make your day unique and memorable. By only inviting your closest friends, you can control each element of your special day and save money for the things that matter.
]]>Many people feel more confident when they dress their best. While sweatpants and T-shirts are comfortable at home, they are not the best outfit to wear every day. Besides, classy and elegant styles are always in fashion, so you won’t need to worry about changing trends.
Another tip for how to live a more elegant lifestyle is to create an elegant home. There are plenty of unique ideas for creating an elegant home, and elegant decor makes your home a pleasant and beautiful place to stay. Surrounding yourself with beauty is a wonderful way to bring luxury and elegance into your life. A few examples of decor to use include patterned rugs, lovely antiques, stunning mirrors, curtains, and more. Simplicity is the key to creating an elegant home, so remember to avoid adding too many items to your rooms.
As previously mentioned, simplicity is the key to an elegant lifestyle. Even the famous luxury brand Coco Chanel claims, “Simplicity is the keynote of all true elegance.” You can apply simplicity to all aspects of your life, including your home decor, clothing style, schedule, and more.
To live a simple and elegant life, choose quality over quantity. Instead of purchasing nine cheaply made shirts, purchase two that utilize quality materials. While the two shirts may be more expensive, they will probably look nicer and last longer than the cheaply made shirts. There are plenty of times in your life when you can choose quality or quantity, so make that your philosophy whenever possible.
]]>Photography is an easy hobby to take up and has a high skill ceiling, allowing for significant room for learning and improvement. Whether you want to use your phone camera or invest in drones to capture breathtaking vantage points, you have many avenues for creative fulfillment. You can decide how deep you wish to get into photography, as well. Even the most basic and affordable cameras offer great versatility.
This hobby also encourages you to discover new areas and locations. You may explore new environments you may have otherwise never visited. Through the lens, you can acquire new perspectives on familiar landscapes, both figuratively and literally, expanding your understanding of your hometown if you choose to explore it.
For those who prefer hobbies in the comfort of their own homes, installing and creating an aquarium not only brings a creative outlet but adds life to your home. With many fish species available and a near-endless assortment of foliage and decorations, you can build a tank filled with color and visually interesting designs.
But it doesn’t have to be a static environment; you can mix it up whenever you feel the urge for something new. Manage your fish and create new looks on a whim, whether you want to recreate the tank based on the season or desire to form a certain aesthetic. The number of options can be overwhelming, but that also leaves room for experimentation with different looks.
When you want to be active, discovering the many different dance styles opens a world of excitement. Some examples include ballet, ballroom dance, jazz dance, and folk dance. You can find the one you enjoy the most.
Besides the sense of discovery it offers, dancing also has the added benefit of providing physical exercise, keeping you healthy. You can explore different cultures through dance and maintain an active lifestyle simultaneously.
Not everyone will enjoy every leisure activity. So, be willing to try new hobbies in your free time. Don’t be afraid to drop one if it doesn’t appeal to you. By being open to new experiences, you may find a new passion you can cultivate.
]]>A party bus can seat between 20 and 40 people, making it ideal for your entire wedding party. Everyone can arrive at the wedding at the same time if you keep them on the bus. Further, you can host the after-party on your bus as well.
Most people who choose a limousine choose a stretch limo—or at best a Hummer limo. But with a party bus, you’ll have a truly unique wedding vehicle. Everyone will have their eyes on you on your special day as your make your way around town. Further, a party bus looks great in photos and helps you create excellent memories.
Whether the service supplies the alcohol or you bring it yourself, most party buses allow you to eat and drink. You can get the party started early or start popping bottles as soon as you get back to the bus after tying the knot.
One of the best things about renting a limo is enjoying exceptional customer service. It should begin from the moment you book your ride. One of the most important questions to ask the private car company you choose to work with is whether it has licenses drivers and vehicles. Ensure you book a reputable service.
One of the best things about party buses is that they’re customizable. Ask your car company about their services and options. Perhaps you can find something to tie into the theme of your wedding.
It’s not hard to find reasons why you should rent a party bus for your wedding. If you have room in your budget for a limo, you might find ways to include a party bus. Call different services to get quotes and start comparing today.
]]>Who knows—as this child grows, they may only experience photo memories on a cell phone. But you can commemorate this milestone with a beautiful frame engraved with their name. While you might be tempted to choose a traditional sterling silver frame, it can be even more thoughtful to keep it all-occasion so they can switch out photos at different stages of life. It’s nice to think that something from you might always be a part of their home. Maybe each year, you can print out a photo you think they’ll love and one day put them all in an album.
Never quilted before? There’s no better reason to give it a try. It’s a relatively small project, and any imperfections will be part of its charm. You can also buy an all-in-one kit that simplifies the process. It’ll feel rewarding to customize it with the baby’s name, the date of the baptism, an embroidered Bible verse, or your own sweet sentiment. Maybe it will end up being their favorite thing to hold at night. And maybe one day, they’ll pass it down to their kids. With homemade care, though, they’ll know it was from the heart.
Some of the most meaningful gift ideas for your godchild’s baptism are things they can use throughout the years. Start them off with their own personal library to cherish as they get older. You’ll actually enjoy curating a collection of books that will help forge a connection between you and this little one. Don’t overthink it; you can choose anything you want to share. Some possibilities:
You’re probably sensing a theme. A christening gift doesn’t have to be extravagant or elaborate. It can be a humble offering that symbolizes the connection between the two of you. It’s ultimately just a gesture to mark the beginning of what will surely be a beautiful friendship.
]]>You can never have too many helping hands. Movers are expensive and often only hired for larger furniture pieces. That means much of the home with being moved by the owners. In other words, your friends need your help. Nothing says, "Welcome to your new home!" like hours of manual labor.
With every new home, there seems to be an endless list of things you need. From the practical to the impractical, the perfect housewarming gift can be just what a new homeowner needs. Giving one is also great if you don't live nearby, but you still want to do something kind for your friend.
For a new homeowner, throwing a housewarming party amid everything can be too much stress to handle. A surprise party allows them to celebrate their massive milestone in a stress-free environment. Though if you decide to have it at the new house, don't break anything!
Moving is exhausting; the people doing it rarely have time to eat anything save fast food. The process of unboxing can take days to finish. It could be a while until new homeowners are able to get to all their cooking utensils and other kitchen necessities. That's why bringing your friend a home-cooked meal could be the perfect way to congratulate them.
There used to be a time when the freezer of someone moving would be packed with weeks’ worth of frozen casseroles from friends. Although that trend may have fallen out of style, you and your friends can be the ones to bring it back.
Few moments are as seminal in a person's life as the purchase of their first home. So, give them a card, and tell them what they mean to you. Letters have fallen out of fashion with the rise in technology; however, this has increased their meaning. People get such few letters in their life that a heartfelt one from a loved one is something people keep for the rest of their lives.
One of the most significant moments in a person's life is the purchase of their home. There are many ways to celebrate your friend's first home purchase, but the most important thing is making the celebration equally as special.
]]>Before you can book a venue or start sending out invitations, you’ll need to figure out when you’re throwing the party. Of course, this can be on the exact day of your anniversary, but it isn’t necessary. It may be more convenient to celebrate before or after the special day. Once you and your partner pick the perfect date, look for and book a venue for the party.
While a theme isn’t necessary, you may want to include one for your party, and there are many ways to go about doing this. You could select décor that reflects a similar interest you and your partner share or go with traditional elements.
Usually, the gift you give your partner also centers around the anniversary. For instance, diamonds are for anything above 60 years! So, if you’re celebrating 60 or more years together, consider some diamond jewelry to gift your partner. This could include anything from a ring to a pendant. You may want to consider the different diamond shapes to give your partner something that truly stands out.
Formal, in-the-mail invitations give your guests all the essential information, like how many years you and your partner have been together and your names. But invitations also include details such as:
When you’re picking the perfect invites to send out, you could include a cute photo of you and your partner or pick an invitation that reflects the party’s theme.
Establish a menu as soon as possible in case you need to hire a caterer. And as you settle on a menu, you should take time to think of any dietary restrictions that guests may have. This is also when you’ll have to decide whether you’ll have a buffet, sit-down meal, or serve food family- style.
Finally, book some entertainment and a photographer. You also may want to think of different games for guests to play during the party to ensure everyone has a great time. The games and music you choose are up to you; it could be something that reflects or showcases your relationship.
Throwing a memorable party takes hard work, but with these tips for planning an amazing anniversary party, you’ll know where to start. Remember to send out those invitations as soon as you set the date, so people have time to RSVP. After all, this party is for you and your partner to celebrate your relationship with those you love the most.
]]>One of the best ways to spark creativity is to see fantastic, inspiring examples of art. Find local art galleries and museums and take your teen with you. Inspire them to ask questions and ask how different pieces make them feel. They may surprise themselves with the kind of insight they can achieve.
As children get older, they can tap into more fine motor skills to create more elaborate art. Providing your artistic teens with high-quality art supplies will help give them the right tools to expand their portfolios. Some of the items you might consider buying for them include canvasses, charcoal pencils, oil pastels, and more.
Even if you’re not the most artistically gifted, you can still help grow your child’s talents with different art classes. Look for a highly-rated local art teacher, online tutor, or even just YouTube videos that can help improve and expand upon their fundamentals. There are also online graphic design courses that can help your teen apply art in their future careers.
It’s okay to brag about your teen’s artwork. Displaying their art around your house not only can help improve their self-esteem and encourage them to create more, but can also add a really unique touch to rooms. You can also splash their art pieces across your social media to let them know you’re proud of them.
Sometimes, the best thing parents and guardians can do for their teens is say you’re proud of them. It’s easy to take for granted that our children know we think they’re talented and want to see them explore their artistic side. Let them know you support them and want to help them however you can.
These are just some of the best ways to support your artistic teenager. The most important, however, is to be willing to help them out whenever they need it. It’s an absolute joy to watch them grow in their talents and see what they can do.
]]>The older your parents get, the more they may need help around the house to do chores, whether they’re major tasks or quick trips to the grocery store. You can make yourself available to them when you feel they need a little extra help getting things done. You can put the skills and lessons they taught you to use, repaying them for the years of care.
You don’t have to buy your parents a new TV, but you can certainly do so if they’re in desperate need of one. But try giving them a gift with meaning and intangible value. It can be a scrapbook of old family pictures you put together. Or, you might write them a letter expressing how grateful you are to them for raising you. It can even just be you treating them to dinner now and again.
If you wish to go the route of presenting your parents with something unique, a Hawaiian lei is an example of a good choice. Besides being visually appealing with a lovely fragrance, it has deep symbolic meanings and represents respect and love. Know what different leis mean and present your parents with the one that captures your feelings the best.
One of the most important things you can do—and something your parents will cherish the most—is spending some time with them. Whatever it is that you do together, they’ll take joy in seeing you and admiring the person you grew up to become. The way you show your parents you appreciate them isn’t important in itself. As long as you’re all spending time together, you can create new memories to look back on.
]]>Depending on the size of your yard, you may need to consider how much room your guests will have to move around. Setting up separate areas where people can congregate around something like a sitting area can help arrange everyone in a more orderly fashion. If you have a pool but aren’t having a pool party, something like a pool floor covering could offer you more space for people to move around.
If your party is outside, it’ll be in the domain of insects. One of the most unfortunate parts of summer is the presence of bothersome bugs. Taking steps to prevent pests from annoying your guests will make your party a lot more fun. Bug spray, bug repellent devices, citronella candles—all of these will make your party much more comfortable and keep bugs away from things like your food.
It wouldn’t be summer without the heat. One of the most important parts of preparing for a backyard party is your strategy for dealing with the heat. Having readily available water at all times is absolutely essential. The more you can do to create more shade, the better. You can also prepare your food and drinks to help deal with the heat by focusing on cold or cooling treats.
A good backyard party usually has a fun activity to go with it. Games and activities help people congregate around something and create more opportunities for conversation. The kind of activity or game you have is dependent on the amount of space you have. Setting up a badminton or volleyball net is a great way to utilize lots of space. You can also have something smaller like a bags tournament if you have less space.
The weather can turn on you quicker than you might expect, so it’s always a good idea to have a backup plan. Make sure you have enough room inside your house in case it starts to rain heavily or if the heat starts to become unbearable. Bad weather is annoying. But with a little forethought, you can deal with it without having it ruin your party.
]]>If there is a personal transaction between two parties, where one party expects nothing in return, then something special is taking place. A large part of the appeal of gift-giving is that you’re also giving someone a memory—of the gift, but also of kindness.
Messages are often included with gifts. If the gift itself did not meet or exceed your expectations, you could be sure that the letter that came along with it will. The extra touch of personal sentiment means you’ve gone the extra mile to let the other party know you truly care.
Gift-giving is usually easy when you’re giving someone something out of kindness and thoughtfulness. However, if the gift is aimed more at that person’s interests and what you think they may like, then you could potentially risk getting the wrong thing.
This is where the uniqueness of the gift comes into play. One thing everyone fears is gifting the same gift someone else is already giving. Another is ending up with a gift unrelated to anything the recipient is interested in. So, there is a fine line to tread.
How we decorate our gift says a lot about the level of importance that went into the gift itself. Some people hold value in the decoration alone. Imagine what it would be like to be handed a gift without the wrapping and how not special that would feel—things would definitely become awkward. Make sure your gift is beautifully wrapped.
How do you put a value on a gift that has personal value to the gift-giver? Sometimes the simple things make the best gifts. For instance, gifting something that’s handmade is something of a rarity in this age but still holds a lot of weight.
Maybe your wrapping and ribbon skills are lacking, but if you are good with your hands, then the gift can speak for itself. Some of the best gifts are those that catch us by surprise and awe us day in and out.
The beautiful wrapping and packaging are something that people look forward to just as much as, if not more, than the gift itself. If we understand that the importance of presentation when gift-giving as individual and unique as anything else, then we understand what it means to give and receive.
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