Make Tough Cleaning a Cinch for your Holiday Prep

The holidays are here and the family is coming over.  If you are a busy family like us, larger chores have to be scheduled.  We cook at home a lot and those stovetop greases waft into the air with the steam of cooking, attaching to your range hood and surrounding kitchen cabinets.  To ensure a super clean kitchen when the guests arrive, we clean stubborn grease with Goo Gone, Kitchen Degreaser. 

 

Goo Gone Kitchen Degreaser is a powerful cleaning solution that can help you remove tough grease and grime from your kitchen surfaces. Here are some of the benefits, ingredients, surfaces safe to use the product on, and directions of use:

Benefits:

• The powerful foaming action in Goo Gone Kitchen Degreaser breaks down even the toughest gunk and grime, leaving your surfaces spotless.
• It is safe to use across your kitchen on most sealed stone (like countertops), glass (like cooktops), metals (like stove tops), and ceramic (like dishware).
• It is easy to use and can help you clean up your kitchen messes quickly and efficiently.

Before:                                                                        After:

Ingredients:

• Goo Gone Kitchen Degreaser contains a powerful foaming formula that clings to grease and quickly breaks it down 

Surfaces safe to use the product on:

• Sealed stone (like countertops)
• Glass (like cooktops)
• Metals (like stove tops)
• Ceramic (like dishware)
• Oven Hoods
• Pots and Pans
• Microwaves
• The BBQ Grill

Directions of use:

• Shake well before use.
• Spray the solution on your surface and let it sit for 10 minutes before wiping off 
• For tougher grease that’s been there a while, you’ll need to mix up something a little stronger. Mix 1 cup vinegar with 3 cups of water, 1 cup of baking soda, and ½ cup of dish soap in a bowl

Watch and be Amazed:

Even the cleanest of families need a little extra elbow grease with their cleaning.  We recommend Goo Gone, Kitchen Degreaser.  Wishing you and your family a Happy Thankgiving!

Written by FTM Partner and Writer

This is an unsponsored post.

Top Toy Recommendations for this Holiday Season

Here are some of the top toys for this holiday season based on age groups from 3 years old to 17 years old:

For 3-5 year olds:

Fisher-Price Little People Launch & Loop Raceway - This toy is perfect for kids who love cars and racing. It comes with two cars and a ramp that launches them into a loop. You can get it at Walmart now for $39.97.

LeapFrog LeapStart 3D Interactive Learning System - This toy is designed to help kids learn through interactive games and activities. It comes with a stylus and a library of books that teach reading, math, science, and more. You can get it at Amazon for $49.99.

For 6-8 year olds:

LEGO Harry Potter Hogwarts Building Kits - These building kits are perfect for kids who love Harry Potter. Starting with 587 pieces, they are designed to look like all of your kids favorite locations at Hogwarts. You can get building sets at Target starting at $39.99

Nintendo Switch Lite - This game system is perfect for kids who love video games. It’s smaller and lighter than the original Nintendo Switch, making it easier for kids to hold and play. You can get it at Best Buy for $199.99.

For 9-12 year olds:

LEGO Star Wars: The Mandalorian The Razor Crest Building Kit - This building kit is perfect for kids who love Star Wars. It comes with 1023 pieces and is designed to look like The Razor Crest from The Mandalorian.  This item is a hot item and selling out fast.  Lego.com is out of stock. You can get it at Walmart for $169.99.  You can also find limited quantities on Amazon for $139.99.  

Xbox Series S - This game system is perfect for kids who love video games. It’s the smallest Xbox ever and comes with a high-speed SSD and 1440p resolution. You can get it at Microsoft Store starting at $249.99.

For 13-17 year olds:

Apple AirPods Pro - These wireless earbuds are perfect for teens who love music. They come with active noise cancellation and a transparency mode that lets you hear your surroundings. You can get them at Best Buy for $189.99.  You can also find Airpods Gen 2 on sale at Target for $79.99

Sony PlayStation 5 - This game system is perfect for teens who love video games. It comes with a high-speed SSD and 4K resolution. You can get it at Best Buy for $499.99.

Please note that these prices are subject to change and may vary by location. Also, keep in mind that some of these toys may sell out quickly during Black Friday or Cyber Monday sales. This is a non-sponsored post.  Happy shopping!  

Top Ten Gift Ideas for Women this Holiday Season

Black Friday is near and it is time to shop for the women in your life.  You can find amazing deals on a variety of products that will make them happy and show them how much you care this holiday season. These are the best gift ideas we recommend that are on sale this Black Friday.

1. Tatcha Kissu Lip Mask

Price: Prices Vary

Store: Amazon

The Tatcha Kissu Lip Mask is a luxurious and nourishing lip care product that will make her lips soft, smooth, and plump. It is made from natural ingredients such as Japanese peach extract, camellia oil, and squalane that hydrate and heal the lips. It also has a subtle rose scent and a glossy finish that will enhance her natural beauty. It is a must-have for any woman who loves pampering herself.

2. I Phone 15 Pro and I Phone 15 Pro Max

Price: Save $1,000 with qualified trade

Store: Best Buy

Meet the I Phone 15 Pro and Pro Max with dynamic island, a 48 MP main camera with up to 4X resolution and 2X telephoto, ceramic shield glass, splash, water and dust resistant, aerospace grade aluminum enclosure, A16 Bionic chip and up to 26 hours of video playback battery life (depending on model).  What a better way to surprise the women in your life.

3. Aurate Connection Necklace

Price: $292.50 (originally $390)

Store: Aurate

The Aurate Connection Necklace is a beautiful and meaningful piece of jewelry that symbolizes the strong bond between you and the woman you love. It is made from 14-karat gold and features two interlocking circles that represent your connection. It can be worn at either 15 or 18 inches and comes in yellow, white, or rose gold. It is a timeless and elegant gift that she will cherish for years to come.

4. Swiss Blue Topaz Teardrop Pendant

Price: $279

Store: Angara

This amazing pear-shaped, sky Blue Topaz is secured in a prong setting and embellished with a diamond accent on the top.  Simple yet stunning, this teardrop Blue Topaz pendant with V bale is sculpted in silver.  18" chain.  Also available in gold, rose gold, and white gold.  This amazing piece will bring tears of joy to her eyes.

5. Woman's Gripper Slipper Bootie Sherpa Lined

Price: $60.00 

Store: Bombas

Everything she wants in a grippy house slipper. These slippers have more cushioning, thanks to an extra thick footbed that makes every step as soft as a pillow. Provides warmth thanks to a fluffy sherpa lining that extends above your ankle. A cozy styling, thanks to the chunky yarns and oversized ribbed cuff, which look festive, textured, and cute to boot. 

6. Our Place Always Pan

Price: $99 (originally $145)

Store: Our Place

The Our Place Always Pan is the ultimate kitchen tool for anyone who loves cooking, eating, or hosting. It is a nonstick pan that can do the work of eight different cookware pieces, such as a skillet, a steamer, a saute pan, and more. It also comes with a wooden spatula, a stainless steel steamer basket, and a modular lid. It is available in a variety of gorgeous colors that will brighten up any kitchen. It is a practical and stylish gift that she will use every day.

7. Hume Supernatural Dry Body Oil Spray

Price: Prices Vary 

Store: Amazon

The Hume Supernatural Dry Body Oil Spray is a luxurious and hydrating body care product that will make her skin soft, smooth, and glowing. It is made from natural ingredients such as coconut oil, jojoba oil, and sunflower oil that moisturize and nourish the skin. It also has a heavenly scent of vanilla, sandalwood, and bergamot that will uplift her mood. It is a simple and elegant gift that she will love.

8. iRobot Roomba Vacuum

Price: $199 (originally $275) 

Store: Walmart

The iRobot Roomba Vacuum is a smart and convenient gift for anyone who hates cleaning or has a busy schedule. It is a robotic vacuum that can navigate your home and clean your floors with the touch of a button or a voice command. It can also connect to your smartphone and let you schedule, monitor, and customize your cleaning preferences. It is compatible with carpets, hardwood, tile, and more, and it can handle pet hair, dirt, and dust. It is a gift that will make her life easier and cleaner.

9. Alex Mill Mixed Stripe Band Collar Button-Up Shirt

Price: $116 (Originally $145

Store: Nordstrom

The Alex Mill Easy Cotton Button-Up Shirt is a staple item that every woman needs in her wardrobe. It is a simple and elegant shirt that can be worn for any event, from work to dinner to holiday parties. It is made from high-quality cotton and features a regular fit, a button-down collar, and a chest pocket. It is available in white, blue, or black, and it will go with anything in her closet.

10. David Yurman Classic Cable Bracelet

Price: $395

Store: David Yurman

David Yurman's artisitic signature, cable began as a bracelet that he hand-twisted from 50 feet of wire.  For the past 30 years, he has evolved the twisted helix into a myriad of designs.  Crafted of sterling silver with 18-karat gold accents.  This piece will surely be the gift of the season for your loved one.

We hope these ideas will make your special lady the merriest maiden this side of the Northpole! Wishing you and yours a very Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!

Written by FTM Partner and Writer

This is not a sponsored post, all recommendations listed are FTM recommendations only.

Photo courtesy of Pexel.com - JE Shoots

Top 10 Gift Ideas for Men on Black Friday

Black Friday is the perfect time to shop for the men in your life, whether they are your husband, boyfriend, father, brother, son, or friend. You can find great deals on a variety of products that will make them happy and show them how much you care. Here are some of the best gift ideas for men that are on sale this Black Friday.

 1. Apple AirPods Pro

Price: $190 (originally $249) 

Store: Amazon

The Apple AirPods Pro are the ultimate wireless earbuds for anyone who loves music, podcasts, or audiobooks. They have active noise cancellation, adaptive EQ, and spatial audio features that deliver immersive sound quality. They are also water-resistant, comfortable, and easy to use with Siri and other devices. They are a must-have for any man who wants to enjoy his favorite tunes without any distractions.

2. Solo Stove Bonfire + Stand

Price: $259.99 (originally $419.99) 

Store: Solo Stove

The Solo Stove Bonfire is the ideal gift for anyone who loves camping, backyard parties, or cozy nights by the fire. It is a portable fire pit that burns wood efficiently and produces minimal smoke. It also comes with a stand that protects the surface underneath from heat and ash. It is a simple and elegant way to create a warm and inviting atmosphere for any occasion.

3. Aurate Connection Necklace

Price: $292.50 (originally $390) 

Store: Aurate

The Aurate Connection Necklace is a beautiful and meaningful piece of jewelry that symbolizes the strong bond between you and the man you love. It is made from 14-karat gold and features two interlocking circles that represent your connection. It can be worn at either 15 or 18 inches and comes in yellow, white, or rose gold. It is a timeless and elegant gift that he will cherish for years to come.

4. Oculus Quest 2

Price: $249.99 (originally $299) 

Store: Amazon

The Oculus Quest 2 is the ultimate virtual reality headset for anyone who loves gaming, fitness, or entertainment. It lets you access tons of immersive games, workout experiences, and apps that will transport you to different worlds. It is wireless, easy to set up, and compatible with a free $50 gift card that you can use to buy more content. It is a fun and exciting gift that will keep him entertained for hours.

5. Truff Best Seller Pack

Price: $62.39 (originally $77.99) 

Store: Truff

The Truff Best Seller Pack is the perfect gift for anyone who loves spicy food and truffles. It includes two of the brand's cult-favorite truffle hot sauces and its new truffle oil, which are all delicious and versatile. You can use them to add flavor and heat to any dish, from eggs and pizza to pasta and popcorn. They are also vegan, gluten-free, and non-GMO. They are a gourmet and indulgent gift that he will enjoy every day.

6. Our Place Always Pan

Price: $99 (originally $145) 

Store: Our Place

The Our Place Always Pan is the ultimate kitchen tool for anyone who loves cooking, eating, or hosting. It is a nonstick pan that can do the work of eight different cookware pieces, such as a skillet, a steamer, a saute pan, and more. It also comes with a wooden spatula, a stainless steel steamer basket, and a modular lid. It is available in a variety of gorgeous colors that will brighten up any kitchen. It is a practical and stylish gift that he will use every day.

7. Wallace & Barnes Zip-Front Twill Workshirt

Price: $89 (originally $138) 

Store: J.Crew

The Wallace & Barnes Zip-Front Twill Workshirt is a classic and versatile piece of clothing that any man will appreciate. It is made from durable and soft cotton twill and features a zip-front closure, chest pockets, and a point collar. It is ideal for layering over a T-shirt or under a jacket, and it can be worn casually or smartly. It is available in navy, olive, or tan, and it will suit any style and occasion.

8. iRobot Roomba Vacuum

Price: $199 (originally $275) 

Store: Walmart

The iRobot Roomba Vacuum is a smart and convenient gift for anyone who hates cleaning or has a busy schedule. It is a robotic vacuum that can navigate your home and clean your floors with the touch of a button or a voice command. It can also connect to your smartphone and let you schedule, monitor, and customize your cleaning preferences. It is compatible with carpets, hardwood, tile, and more, and it can handle pet hair, dirt, and dust. It is a gift that will make his life easier and cleaner.

9. Alex Mill Easy Cotton Button-Up Shirt

Price: $120

Store: Alex Mill

The Alex Mill Easy Cotton Button-Up Shirt is a staple item that every man needs in his wardrobe. It is a simple and elegant shirt that can be worn for any event, from work to dinner to holiday parties. It is made from high-quality cotton and features a regular fit, a button-down collar, and a chest pocket. It is available in white, blue, or black, and it will go with anything in his closet.

10. Brooklinen Heathered Cashmere Core Sheet Set

Price: From $260 (originally $279) 

Store: Brooklinen

The Brooklinen Heathered Cashmere Core Sheet Set is a luxurious and cozy gift that will make him feel pampered and relaxed. It is a set of sheets that are made from a blend of cotton and cashmere, which makes them super soft, warm, and breathable. They also have a heathered look that adds some texture and style to any bed. They come in four neutral colors and include a flat sheet, a fitted sheet, and two pillowcases. They are a gift that make him sleep like a baby.

BONUS RECOMMENDATION

Bladesmith Cleaver Knife

Price:  $40.99

Store: Amazon

From camping to grilling to cooking in the kitchen, the Bladesmith Cleaver Knife is the top rated tool for the man in your life.  This Japanese forged butcher knife measures 7.28 inches, is lightweight and effortlessly chops and dices everything.  Don’t buy your man just any knife, buy him a Bladesmith.

We hope these ideas will make your special man the jolliest man this side of the Northpole! Wishing you and yours a very Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!

Written by FTM Partner and Writer

This is not a sponsored post, all recommendations listed are FTM recommendations only.

Photo courtesy of Pexels.com - Brett Sayles

Protect Yourself - Install a Car Camera Today!

Societal politeness is becoming a rare event.  An increasing number of persons can be seen texting and driving, driving aggressively or making poor decisions with last minute lane changes.  Some drivers, with their high powered electric vehicles, are utilizing their vehicles' capacity to engage in more risky driving behaviors.  With technology advancing, it is important to protect yourself in the event of a crash or angry driver.  Installing a front and rear facing dash camera can make all the difference ensuring you are protected and made whole from another persons misjudgment.

According to Forbes Advisor, in 2020, a total of 35,766 fatal car accidents occurred on roadways across the United States. Another 1,593,390 crashes resulted in injuries and 3,621,681 caused property damage.  In 2021, 8% of fatal crashes were attributed to distracted driving, resulting in 3,522 deaths and an estimated 362,415 injuries.

Road rage has become a serious issue that can lead to accidents, injuries, and even fatalities. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), aggressive driving is a factor in 66% of traffic fatalities. In 2023, 92% of Americans reported witnessing an act of road rage in the past year, and 89% reported being the victim of such an act. In the United States, 12,610 injuries and 218 murders have been attributed to road rage over a seven-year period

We recently installed a Pumpa Dash Camera. You can see the quality in the video below during a recent road rage incident we experienced.  We hope this NEVER happens to you; this behavior is extremely scary to be involved in.

Installing a front and rear dash camera in your car can help protect you from accidents and road rage incidents. It can provide evidence in case of an accident, and it can also deter aggressive drivers from engaging in dangerous behavior. 

To help make your purchase decision, we have listed below a few front and rear view cameras you can purchase on Amazon.  Click on the link to go to Amazon's site.

REDTIGER Dash Cam Front Rear, 4K/2.5K Full HD Dash Camera for Cars, Free 32GB SD Card, Built-in Wi-Fi GPS, 3.18” IPS Screen, Night Vision, 170°Wide Angle, WDR, 24H Parking Mode. Redtiger Dash Cam

AKASO DL12 2.5K Mirror Dash Cam Voice Control 12" Touch Screen Front and Rear Dual Dash Camera for Cars Night Vision Backup Camera with Sony Starvis Sensor GPS G-Sensor Parking Assistance. Akaso DL12 Dash Cam

Dash Cam Front and Rear, 1080P Full HD Dash Camera for Cars with 32GB SD Card, 2.45'' IPS Screen, 170°Wide Angle, Night Vision, Parking Monitor, Loop Recording, Motion Detection. Pumpa Dash Cam

3 Channel Dash Cam Front and Rear Inside, 4K Full HD 170 Deg Wide Angle Dashboard Camera with 32GB SD Card,2.0 inch IPS Screen,Built in IR Night Vision,G-Sensor,Loop Recording,24H Parking Recording. Prilotte 3 Channel Dash Cam

Dash Cam Front and Rear 4K Built-in 5GHz WiFi, Dual Dash Cam Front 4K Rear 1080P Hidden Dash Camera for Cars, Free 64GB SD Card, Super Night Vision, Supercapacitor, Parking Mode, G-Sensor, USB C Port. Focuway Dash Cam

Please note that prices are subject to change. You can purchase these cameras on Amazon, which offers a wide selection of dash cams at competitive prices. 

Whether you are traveling for work or traveling for fun, we want you to be safe.  Maybe with an increase in cameras recording events on the roads, society will become more compassionate and respectful!  Stay safe on the road!

Written by FTM Partner and writer.

Photo courtesy of Pexels.com, Akshay Nayak

Dia de Los Muertos at UC Irvine with Grammy Award Winning Mariachi Divas!

 

Celebrating our Loved Ones on Dia de Los Muertos

 

Dia de los Muertos, also known as Day of the Dead, is a traditional Mexican holiday that is celebrated annually on November 1st and 2nd. The holiday is a time to honor and remember loved ones who have passed away. Here’s a brief overview of the holiday:

Origination:

The holiday has its roots in ancient Aztec culture, where it was believed that the dead could return to the living world for one day each year. The Aztecs would celebrate the lives of their deceased loved ones with offerings of food, drink, and flowers.

History: 

After the Spanish conquest of Mexico in the 16th century, the holiday became more closely associated with the Catholic All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day. Today, it is celebrated throughout Mexico and in many other parts of the world.

Significance:

Dia de los Muertos is a time to celebrate life and death. It is believed that the spirits of the dead return to the world of the living for one day each year to be with their families and friends. The holiday is a way to honor and remember loved ones who have passed away.

Important aspects of the holiday: 

One of the most important aspects of Dia de los Muertos is the creation of an altar, or ofrenda, which is used to honor deceased loved ones. The altar typically includes photographs of the deceased, candles, flowers (especially marigolds), food, and drink. Other important aspects of the holiday include sugar skulls (calaveras), which are decorated with colorful icing and used as offerings on the altar, and papel picado, which are colorful paper cutouts that are hung up around the altar.  Add incense, water (to quench thirst after a long journey), salt (to purify and cleanse), and personal items that belonged to the deceased to help make your altar more personal.  My wife and I visited a local Southern California farm to get our freshly cut Marigolds for set up of our altar.

Holiday festivals:

Dia de los Muertos is a vibrant and colorful holiday that is celebrated throughout the United States. Here are some of the best Dia de los Muertos festivals in the US, along with their dates, times, and locations:

1. Hollywood Forever Cemetery in Los Angeles, California: This music-filled Day of the Dead celebration takes place every year at the Hollywood Forever Cemetery. Attendees can expect to find colorful altars, Aztec dancers, and a pyramid-shaped mausoleum photobooth hosted by Netflix. The event is held on November 2nd.  Hollywood Forever Cemetery

2. Muertos Fest in San Antonio, Texas: This Day of the Dead celebration takes place in the La Villita Historic Arts Village and features drummers dressed as skeletons, traditional Aztec dancers, and puppeteers animating ornate skeleton puppets. The event is held on November 1st and 2nd.  Muertos Fest

3. Day of the Dead Chicago in Chicago, Illinois: Held at the National Museum of Mexican Art, this Day of the Dead celebration immerses guests in a full art experience. The museum and surrounding area are turned into an elaborate work of art, featuring visual displays that reveal the story of the Day of the Dead. The event is held on November 2nd. Day of the Dead Chicago

4. Florida Day of the Dead in Fort Lauderdale, Florida: This event features a huge parade called the Skeleton Processional that pays homage to traditional cultural elements of the holiday while incorporating skeleton alligators, sea turtles, pirates, and mermaids. The event is held on November 2nd.  Florida Day of the Dead

5. Day of the Dead San Diego in San Diego, California: This event features a procession that starts at Sherman Heights Community Center and ends at Chicano Park. Attendees can expect to find live music, food vendors, and a community altar where they can leave offerings for their loved ones who have passed away. The event is held on November 1st. Day of the Dead San Diego

6. Day of the Dead Festival in New York City, New York: This festival features live music, traditional Mexican food, face painting, and a community altar where attendees can leave offerings for their loved ones who have passed away. The event is held on November 2nd.  Day of the Dead Festival

7. Muertos y Marigold Parade in Albuquerque, New Mexico: This parade features floats, mariachi bands, Aztec dancers, and giant puppets that celebrate life and death. The parade ends with a celebration at historic Barelas neighborhood with food vendors and live music. The event is held on November 2nd. Muertos y Marigold Parade

8. Tucson’s All Souls Procession in Tucson, Arizona: This procession features thousands of participants who walk through downtown Tucson carrying candles and wearing costumes to honor their loved ones who have passed away. The procession ends with a finale performance that includes fire dancers and acrobats. The event is held on November 6th. Tucson All Souls Procession

9. San Francisco in California: San Francisco has several events throughout the city to celebrate Dia de los Muertos including art exhibits, live music performances, and community altars where attendees can leave offerings for their loved ones who have passed away.  San Francisco Day of the Dead

10. Orange County in Irvine, California, University of California, Irvine Department of Sociology in partnership with Northgate Gonzalez Market is hosting Dia de los Mertos 2023.  Guests can participate in the virtual community altar, enjoy Aztec dance and Ballet Folklorico performances and a Mariachi concert by the Grammy Award-winning Mariachi Divas while visiting the face-painting and sugar skull crafts booths.  UC Irvine & Northgate Gonzalez Market

Please note that dates and times are subject to change due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. Search your area for local times, locations and events happening to join the celebration.  You may see a Dia de Los Muertos celebration on You Tube below.

The passing of our loved ones is ever so painful in the moment.  However, their traditions and memories while with us and how they impacted each of our lives can live on forever through this glorious celebration!  Take part in a festival near you and remember those in your life who have passed on to protect and guide us through our moral life on Earth.  Blessings to all of you!

For Dia de Los Muertos family fun entertainment, watch “The Book of Life” on Max and “Coco” on Disney +.  

Written by FTM Partner & Staff Writer

Photo from pexel.com Jhovani Morales

Family Fun Activities for the Holidays

The holidays are rapidly approaching and many families are looking for fun activities to entertain their house guests.  Keeping the little ones entertained and Grandpa out of the kitchen while the food prep and cooking ensues can be the difference between a burnt bird and a delicious meal that has Emeril Lagasse blushing with pride.

**Image from Pexel.com

Here are our Top 10 family traditions that you can try with your family during the upcoming holidays.

1. Family Game Night: This is a great way to bond with your family and have fun together. You can play board games, card games, or even video games.  We recommend Monopoly, Uno, Sorry, Mario Cart and Madden 24
2. Family Movie Night: Pick a movie that everyone will enjoy and watch it together. Don’t forget the popcorn!  We recommend The Nightmare Before Christmas, Holidate, Love Hard , Trains Planes and Automobiles and National Lampoons Christmas Vacation.  For a G Rated evening, try A Charlie Brown Christmas, Frosty the Snowman, A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving and Free Birds
3. Family Outings: Go on a hike, visit a museum, or go to the beach. Spending time together outside of the house is a great way to bond.
4. Silly Games: Play games like charades, Pictionary, or even Twister. These games are sure to bring laughter and joy to your family.
5. Cooking Activities: Cook a meal together or bake some cookies. This is a great way to teach your kids how to cook and spend quality time together.
6. Family Crafts: Make some crafts together like painting, drawing, or even scrapbooking. This is a great way to get creative and make memories.
7. Local Orange County, CA Upcoming Events: Check out local events like the Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade or the Laguna Beach Festival of Arts. These events are sure to be fun for the whole family.  In Los Angeles, walk along the cannels of Naples Island in Long Beach to see an elaborate display of Christmas Lights or the iconic LA Zoo lights in Griffith Park.
8. Family Sports Day: Play some sports together like basketball, soccer, or even frisbee. This is a great way to get some exercise and have fun together.
9. Family Talent Show: Have everyone in the family show off their talents like singing, dancing, or even telling jokes. This is a great way to showcase everyone’s unique skills.
10. Family Volunteer Day: Volunteer at a local charity or organization together as a family. This is a great way to give back to your community and teach your kids about the importance of helping others.

For Thanksgiving-specific traditions:

• Turkey Trot: Participate in a local turkey trot race on Thanksgiving morning.
• Thanksgiving Dinner: Host a potluck-style Thanksgiving dinner where everyone brings their favorite dish.
• Thanksgiving Crafts: Make some Thanksgiving-themed crafts like handprint turkeys or paper pumpkins.  Here is one of our family favorites from our past, Turkey Craft

For Christmas-specific traditions:

• Christmas Lights Tour: Drive around town and look at Christmas lights.
• Christmas Caroling: Go caroling in your neighborhood.
• Christmas Tree Decorating: Decorate your Christmas tree as a family.

Building family traditions creates a lifetime of memories that get passed down for generations to come.  Set your family legacy by using these ideas to help you create some fun family traditions!

Written by FTM Partner and Contributor

**Image from Pexel.com

Visiting the California Botanical Garden

The California Botanic Garden is a botanical garden located in Claremont, California, just south of the San Gabriel foothills. The garden is spread across 86 acres and is the largest botanic garden dedicated to California native plants. It has curated collections of more than 22,000 California native plants, some of which are rare or endangered. The garden displays about 2000 taxon of California plants and includes those native to the California Floristic Province.

The garden has several special features that make it a must-visit destination. It has a unique fruit grove, a massive 11,000 square foot organic vegetable garden, the Channel Islands garden, an extensive cycad collection, a conifer collection, a palm grove, community gardens, and a children’s playground. The garden also offers events and classes throughout the year that celebrate and explore our connections to California native plants and the larger natural world. Some upcoming events include:

• Herb Walk: Medicinal Plants of California on November 4th.
• First Sunday Family Friendly Bird Walks hosted by the Pomona Valley Audubon Society on November 5th.
• Saging the World on November 12th.
• Watercolor Botanicals: Autumn Sepia on November 18th.
• California Native Plants for Bonsai on November 19th.

For more information about upcoming events and classes, please visit their website at California Botanical Garden

Some must-see attractions within the garden include the rose garden, herb garden, butterfly garden, and delphinium border. The gift shop at the garden offers a variety of items such as books, jewelry, pottery, and other unique gifts. The shop also has a wide selection of plants for sale.

The California Botanic Garden is an excellent place for families to visit. It provides resources to help people develop and maintain native gardens on their own. The garden also offers guided walks and tours, exhibitions, school tours and programs, learning@home event calendar, and rentals.

We hope this information helps you plan your visit to the California Botanic Garden!

California Botanical Garden

‍1500 N College Avenue

Claremont CA 91711

(909) 625 8767

info@calbg.org

Top 10 Holiday Travel Destinations for Families Who Just Need to Get Away!

Let's face it, the holidays are right around the corner.  With Thanksgiving only 29 days away, Hanukkah 43 days away and Kwanzaa & Christmas 61 days away, families are starting to make their holiday plans.  If you are like us, maybe you don't have extended family nearby or maybe their finances just can't stretch past $5.50 per gallon gasoline in Southern California.  Sometimes, we just need a nice, quiet, relaxing holiday vacation that is only your immediate household and doesn't break the bank.

Even if your extended family is available, why not enjoy the Holidays in a home away from home.  Pamper yourself and consider some of our favorite locations, your coworkers will thank you for taking a super relaxing vacation and the family will be over the moon excited about this special holiday plan.

Here are the Top 10 resort style places to stay for the Holidays.  All of these resorts can be reserved on travel sites such as Travelocity or Hotels.com.

1. Alisal Guest Ranch & Resort in Solvang, California: This resort offers a variety of activities for families, including horseback riding, fishing, and golfing. The resort also has a spa and a pool.  Visit them at Alisal Ranch
2. Sea Island Resort in Sea Island, Georgia: This resort is located on a private island and offers a variety of activities for families, including golfing, tennis, and horseback riding. The resort also has a spa and a pool.  Visit them at 
   Sea Island Resort
3. Paws Up Resort in Greenough, Montana: This resort offers a variety of activities for families, including horseback riding, fly fishing, and hot air balloon rides. The resort also has a spa and a pool.  Visit them at Paws Up
4. Sanderling Resort in Duck, North Carolina: This resort is located on the Outer Banks and offers a variety of activities for families, including kayaking, paddle boarding, and surfing. The resort also has a spa and a pool.  Visit them at Sanderling Resort
5. The Osthoff Resort in Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin: This resort offers a variety of activities for families, including ice skating, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing. The resort also has a spa and a pool.  Visit them at Osthoff Resort
6. Sunriver Resort in Sunriver, Oregon: This resort offers a variety of activities for families, including skiing, snowboarding, and ice skating. The resort also has a spa and a pool.  Visit them at Sunriver Resort
7. Kingsmill Resort in Williamsburg, Virginia: This resort offers a variety of activities for families, including golfing, tennis, and kayaking. The resort also has a spa and a pool.  Visit them at Kingsmill Resort
8. Nemacolin Woodlands Resort in Farmington, Pennsylvania: This resort offers a variety of activities for families, including skiing, snowboarding, and dog sledding. The resort also has a spa and a pool.  Visit them at Nemacolin Woodlands Resort
9. The Broadmoor in Colorado Springs, Colorado: This resort offers a variety of activities for families, including hiking, fishing, and horseback riding. The resort also has a spa and a pool.  Visit them at The Broadmoor
10. The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds in Greensboro, Georgia: This resort is located on Lake Oconee and offers a variety of activities for families, including boating, fishing, and golfing. The resort also has a spa and a pool.  Visit them at The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds

We hope this helps you plan your Holiday getaway!  Wishing you and your family health, happiness and prosperity this holiday season.

Written by FTM partner & staff writter

**Image from Pexel.com

Amazing Hawaiian Vacation Package for the Holidays!

Are you dreaming of a tropical getaway to Hawaii? Do you want to enjoy the sun, the sea, and the sand without breaking the bank? If so, you're in luck! We have found an amazing all-inclusive Hawaiian vacation package that is on sale now for the month of December. For only $1,999 per person, you can spend a week in paradise, with airfare, hotel, and rental vehicle included!

This incredible deal will take you to the beautiful island of Oahu, where you can explore the vibrant city of Honolulu, visit the historic Pearl Harbor, surf the famous waves of Waikiki Beach, and hike the stunning Diamond Head crater. You'll stay at the Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort, a 4-star beachfront property that offers 9 restaurants, 5 outdoor pools, a full-service spa, a children's pool, a waterslide, and beach umbrellas. Your accommodations will include a spacious room with a balcony, a mini-fridge, a coffee maker, and free WiFi.

You'll also get a rental vehicle for three days, so you can drive around the island and discover its natural beauty and cultural diversity. You can visit the North Shore, where you can see giant sea turtles and watch professional surfers. You can stop by the Dole Plantation, where you can taste fresh pineapple and ride the Pineapple Express train. You can explore the Polynesian Cultural Center, where you can learn about the different islands of the Pacific and enjoy a luau feast and a fire show.

This all-inclusive Hawaiian vacation package is valid for travel from December 1 to December 31, 2021. You must book by November 30, 2021 to take advantage of this offer. To book your trip, visit this link: https://www.hawaiitours.com/all-inclusive-hawaii-vacations

Don't miss this chance to experience Hawaii at its best for an unbeatable price. Hurry and book your all-inclusive Hawaiian vacation package today!