Hallmark Movies & Mysteries Premiere of "Miracle in Bethlehem, PA" on Thursday, December 21st at 8pm/7c! #MiraclesofChristmas

Today's conversation is sponsored by Hallmark Movies & Mysteries. 

It's so hard to believe that the holiday season is here and almost over, just that quick! We are all packing in the festivities while we can by attending parties, taking drives to see the lights, eating delicous treats, and partaking in a few traditional events we do each year. Decemember is definitely the most hectic yet the most magical month of the year. My family has been taking a vacation every Christmas to Myrtle Beach for close to a decade now. It is a time we all look forward to to wind down from the holiday hustle and bustle, and reconnect as a family. 

This photo is from 6 years ago, and we have it on a canvas on our family gallery wall. It serves as a reminder of how much magic happens at the beach when we go each Christmas. Outside of our family trip, one of my favorite things to do every year gearing up to Christmas is to watch movies from  Hallmark Movies & Mysteries Miracles of Christmas. There are 9 new original movies premiering throughout #MiraclesOfChristmas and you can view the line-up here. 

We hope will join us and tune-in to Hallmark Movie Movies & Mysteries #MiraclesOfChristmas original premiere Miracle In Bethlehem,PA on Thursday, December 21st at 8pm/7c! I will be live-tweeting during the movie and would love for you all to watch and tweet along. 

You can connect with me on Twitter/X and use the hashtag #MiracleInBethlehemPA for the chance to win a $25 digital Visa gift card. 

Movie Info: 

Stars:  Laura Vandervoort and Benjamin Ayres

Successful and fiercely independent, Mary Ann Brubeck adopts a baby girl to raise on her own just before Christmas. Due to weather, she and the baby get stuck in Bethlehem, PA for the holidays. When there is no room at the inn, her only option is to stay with the innkeeper’s brother Joe, a quintessential bachelor who lives in a house that he treats like a barn. As Mary Ann learns the value of community by spending time with Joe’s family and participating in the local church’s Christmas events, Joe starts getting his act together with new motivation…and the two begin to see each other in a new light.

You can check out all 9 original holiday movies all season long on Hallmark Movies & Mysteries Miracles of Christmas!  https://www.hallmarkmoviesandmysteries.com/miracles-of-christmas 

You can repost this tweet to be entered to win the $25 gift card (U.S. Residents only). We hope to see you on Thursday evening where we will annouce the winner at the end of the live-tweet session. 

               

Unwrapping Joy: The Ultimate Guide to Stocking Stuffers for Men

The holiday season is synonymous with joy, laughter, and, of course, the tradition of stuffing stockings. If you're on the lookout for the perfect stocking stuffers for the men in your life, look no further. We've curated a list of the best stocking stuffers that are sure to bring a smile to the faces of fathers, brothers, partners, and friends. Dive into this festive guide and discover thoughtful and affordable treasures that will make their holiday season even more special.

1. Gadget Gizmos: For the tech-savvy man, consider small gadgets that make a big impact. Think portable phone accessories, like magnetic phone holders or compact multi-tool gadgets. These nifty items add convenience to their daily routines.

2. Whiskey Stones: Elevate their drinking experience with whiskey stones. These cubes, when chilled, provide a way to cool their favorite spirits without diluting the flavor. Pair them with a nice bottle of whiskey for an extra touch of sophistication.

3. Quality Pocket Tools: Compact tools, such as a durable pocket knife or a versatile multitool, are practical and handy for a variety of situations. Choose a sleek and functional design for a stocking stuffer that combines utility with style.

4. Cozy Socks: You can never go wrong with a pair of warm, cozy socks. Opt for fun patterns, luxurious fabrics, or socks that cater to specific hobbies or interests. They're a small indulgence that brings comfort during the colder months.

5. Beard Grooming Products: For the bearded gentlemen, consider high-quality beard oils, balms, or combs. These grooming essentials keep facial hair in top condition and add a touch of luxury to their daily routine.

6. Hot Sauce Sampler: Spice up their holiday season with a hot sauce sampler featuring a variety of flavors and heat levels. It's a small, flavorful gift that packs a punch.

7. Leather Keychain: Upgrade their key game with a stylish leather keychain. Look for options that include additional features like a bottle opener or small tools for added functionality.

8. Mini Bluetooth Speaker: Bring the gift of music wherever they go with a mini Bluetooth speaker. These compact devices offer impressive sound quality in a small package.

9. Pocket-Sized Cologne: A travel-sized cologne in their favorite scent is a thoughtful addition to their daily grooming routine. It's a practical and stylish gift that they can take on the go.

10. Specialty Coffee or Tea: For the caffeine enthusiast, consider a bag of high-quality coffee beans or a selection of gourmet teas. Pair it with a stylish mug for the perfect morning ritual.

11. Fun Desk Toys: Add a touch of playfulness to their workspace with desk toys or stress relievers. Consider items like magnetic sculptures, fidget spinners, or desktop games.

12. Leather Wallet: Upgrade their everyday carry with a slim and stylish leather wallet. Look for designs that cater to their specific needs, such as extra card slots or a money clip.

13. Novelty Socks: Inject some humor into their wardrobe with novelty socks featuring quirky patterns or designs that reflect their interests or hobbies.

14. Portable Hot Sauce Keychain: For hot sauce enthusiasts on the go, a miniature hot sauce keychain is a practical and flavorful addition to their daily adventures.

15. Mini Flashlight: A compact and powerful flashlight is a practical gift for various situations, whether they're camping, working on DIY projects, or navigating dark spaces.

16. Travel-sized Grooming Kits: Compact grooming kits containing essentials like a razor, shaving cream, and aftershave are perfect for the man who values personal care on the go.

17. Magnetic Wristband: Ideal for DIY enthusiasts, a magnetic wristband allows them to keep screws, nuts, and other small metal objects within easy reach during projects.

18. Wine Aerator Pourer: Enhance their wine-drinking experience with a wine aerator pourer. This small device improves the wine's flavor and aroma as it's poured.

19. Bluetooth Earbud Case: For those who love their wireless earbuds, a stylish and protective case is a practical and appreciated gift.

20. Inspirational Bookmarks: Encourage their reading habits with bookmarks featuring quotes or designs that inspire and motivate. It's a small yet thoughtful addition to their favorite books.

Finding the perfect stocking stuffers for men involves a mix of practicality, style, and a dash of personalization. Whether you're shopping for the gadget guru, the whiskey connoisseur, or the style-conscious man in your life, these thoughtful and affordable stocking stuffer ideas are sure to make their holiday season merry and bright. Happy stuffing!

How To Prevent Lost Items and Improve Organization With Name Labels for Kids

The daily chaos of school and extracurricular activities can turn any parent into a detective, constantly on the lookout for lost items. From backpacks to water bottles, kids have a knack for misplacing their belongings, causing frustration for both parents and little ones. In this whirlwind of confusion, high-quality name labels emerge as the unsung heroes, ensuring that lost items find their way back home and promoting a sense of organization in the midst of chaos. 

Preventing Lost Items

Every parent has experienced the sinking feeling of realizing their child has lost something valuable. It might be a favorite jacket, a school textbook, or a cherished toy. Apart from the financial burden of replacing these items, the emotional toll on both the parent and the child can be significant. Lost items can cause stress, disrupt routines, and lead to a sense of disorganization, especially during the busy school days.

High-Quality Name Labels

High-quality name labels act as tiny beacons of hope in the world of lost items. These labels, often made from durable materials like waterproof vinyl or iron-on fabric, are designed to withstand the wear and tear of a child’s daily activities. Unlike generic labels or markers that fade away after a few washes, high-quality name labels stay intact, ensuring that your child's belongings are easily identifiable.

Preventing Mix-ups and Confusion

In school settings, where multiple children might have similar items, high-quality name labels play a crucial role in preventing mix-ups and confusion. A well-labeled lunchbox or a backpack stands a much better chance of finding its way back to its rightful owner. This not only saves parents from constantly replenishing lost items but also teaches children a sense of responsibility for their belongings. 

Promoting Independence

When children know that their items are clearly labeled, they gain a sense of independence. They can confidently identify their own belongings, which is especially important in school environments where personal responsibility is encouraged. This independence not only boosts their self-esteem but also instills a sense of organization and orderliness from an early age.

Customization and Personalization

High-quality name labels, including innovative options like name stamps for clothes, provide an invaluable solution to the age-old problem of lost items. In the whirlwind of childhood activities, these labels emerge as unsung heroes, offering parents a sense of peace and assurance. The beauty of these labels lies not just in their durability and functionality but also in the myriad ways they can be customized to suit a child's unique preferences.

Cost-Effective Solutions

While high-quality name labels might seem like a small investment, they are incredibly cost-effective in the long run. Consider the cumulative cost of replacing lost items throughout a school year. From clothing to stationery, these expenses can add up significantly. High-quality name labels drastically reduce the frequency of these replacements, saving parents both money and the hassle of constantly replacing lost items.

In the whirlwind of childhood activities, high-quality name labels offer parents a sense of peace. The knowledge that their child's belongings are clearly marked and easily identifiable provides reassurance. It's a small but powerful tool that promotes organization, independence, and responsibility in children while saving parents from the frustrations of lost items. Investing in high-quality name labels is not just about preventing lost items; it's about instilling valuable life skills and fostering a sense of orderliness that will benefit children throughout their lives. So, equip your child's belongings with these tiny yet transformative labels and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with a well-organized, labeled life.

Navigating Inflation: Money-Saving Tips for Young Adults

Hey there, young adults! I know that dealing with money can sometimes feel like diving headfirst into a whirlpool of confusion. And now, with inflation hitting us, it's even more essential to get a grip on our finances. So, let's chat about some practical tips to help you handle budgeting and financial decisions during this time of inflation. Consider me your friendly virtual parent giving you some sage advice! 

Budget Like a Pro: The first step to financial stability is setting up a budget. List down all your monthly expenses, including rent, groceries, transportation, and entertainment. Once you see where your money is going, it becomes easier to allocate funds wisely.

Emergency Fund is Non-Negotiable: We can't predict emergencies, but we can prepare for them. Try to save at least three months' worth of living expenses in an emergency fund. It'll give you peace of mind and financial security during tough times. You just have to make sure you do not touch it. 

Cut Back on Non-Essentials: Evaluate your spending habits and distinguish between needs and wants. It might be time to reduce those frequent takeout orders, streaming subscriptions, or impulse purchases.  Saving a few dollars here and there adds up over time. 

Shop Smart: When grocery shopping, look for sales, use coupons, and consider buying generic brands. It really helps a lot to have your most frequented grocery store app on your phone. Planning meals and making a shopping list can help you avoid impulse buys and save on food costs.

Track Your Expenses: Apps can be your best friends when it comes to tracking expenses. There are so many free ones available that can categorize your spending, making it easier to spot areas where you can cut back.

Invest Wisely: Inflation erodes the purchasing power of your money. To combat this, consider investing in assets like stocks or real estate. While these carry some risk, they historically outperform inflation in the long run. Of course, this might not be an option if you are just starting out on your own. 

Pay Off High-Interest Debts: High-interest debts, like credit card balances, can eat away at your finances. Prioritize paying them off as quickly as possible. It will definitely take time, but be patient and try to pay more than the minimum payment on any credit cards you may have.  The interest you save will be money in your pocket. 

Automate Savings: Set up automatic transfers to your savings account right after payday. This way, you won't even see the money you're saving, making it less tempting to spend it. This is also a smart move for life insurance, but that's another post for another day. 

Consider Side Hustles: If your primary income isn't covering your expenses, consider taking on a side gig. Freelancing, selling crafts online, or tutoring can bring in extra cash to help you stay afloat. You might even have items that you can sell on Facebook Marketplace or eBay to make some quick cash. 

Stay Informed: Keep an eye on economic news and government policies that may affect your finances. Being aware of changes can help you make informed financial decisions, especially if you have student loans. 

Invest in Your Skills: Learning new skills or furthering your education can increase your earning potential in the long run. Consider investing in courses or certifications that can boost your career. Some places of employment might even pay for courses relevant to your job. Be sure to inquire before enrolling in classes or courses. 

Plan for Retirement: It's never too early to start saving for retirement. Contribute to your employer's retirement plan, and if possible, open an individual retirement account (IRA). Compound interest will work in your favor over time.

Seek Financial Advice: If you're unsure about your financial strategy, don't hesitate to seek advice from a financial advisor. They can help you create a personalized plan based on your goals and current financial situation.

Be Patient and Stay Disciplined: Achieving financial stability takes time and discipline. Don't be discouraged by setbacks or slow progress. Keep your long-term goals in mind and stay committed to your financial plan. If you have the opportunity to live with parents or family members at a low cost, this is an excellent thing to take advantage of to get your finances in order. 

Remember, we're all in this together. Inflation is a challenge, but with smart financial decisions and a little determination, you can weather the storm. Just like a parent would, I want to see you succeed and build a secure financial future. So, go out there and take control of your finances, and don't forget to treat yourself once in a while – you've earned it!

A Guide to Choosing the Right Knife for Every Occasion

Most people use knives every day, for various purposes, without ever really thinking about it. However, there are some situations where you need to carefully select the knife that you will be using. 

In those cases, it’s a good idea to choose the right knife for the occasion based on a variety of different factors, and this post is here to walk you through some of them. Hopefully, this will make the choice easier for you. Keep reading to learn more! 

Determine the purpose

Step one is to determine the purpose that you will be using the knife for. If you are someone with a vast collection of knives, simply deciding what you want to use the knife for will already eliminate quite a few options and narrow down the pool. 

For example, if you want to use a knife to finely slice some vegetables, you should look at your kitchen knives and remove anything too long or bulky from the list of possibilities. Similarly, if you are looking for a utility knife or a hunting knife, you probably shouldn’t be reaching for a kitchen knife. Instead, you will want to opt for one of the best ever hunting knives, as they were created for this specific purpose. 

Consider the size

Any knife connoisseur knows that it’s a good idea to have a wide range of knives in different sizes. This is because different sizes of knives will be suitable for different occasions. 

We’ve already discussed that different sized knives in the kitchen will be best suited to different purposes, but there are also other reasons why you’d want to consider the size of your knife, such as if you are traveling and need the knife to take up as little space as possible in your travel pouch. 

Think about your safety 

When it comes to knives of all kinds, another important thing to keep in mind is the element of safety. Of course, all knives have potential risks associated with them, but some knives may be a bit safer than others, especially depending on the situation. 

An example of this would be if you are traveling with a knife. An open knife will hold a much bigger safety risk in this case than a knife which can be flipped shut to conceal the blade. Similarly, if you are teaching your children how to chop vegetables, you may want to opt for a knife with a duller blade, or even a plastic knife, until they get the hang of things.  

Keep the cost in mind

Finally, while some people may have an array of knives to pick from and will thus have a knife for every occasion, others may not.

If you need to buy a knife for whatever reason – such as trying a new recipe, replacing a broken knife, or going on a hunting trip for the first time – you should make sure to pick a knife within your budget so that the expense doesn’t affect your family’s finances too much.