Lydia Noyes, Author at 1800Flowers Petal Talk

Top 8 Date Ideas for Winter

Learning something new on a date is always a good idea. It will encourage playing together, which is one of the best bonding activities for a couple.

lumAlia armstrong

Relationship expert

The winter months can be a hard time for couples to keep the spark lit. After all, dark days and drab weather do not lend themselves to dating inspiration. “As the days become shorter, it can feel like there’s less time to engage together,” says Lumalia Armstrong, a relationship expert and Couples Connection architect who helps couples rediscover their love for each other. “This creates a scarcity mindset, leaving couples feeling like they don’t have enough time and space for each other.”

Armstrong believes, however, that it’s possible to shift your thinking and turn winter’s downsides into positives for your relationship.

“Here’s what’s most important: Remind yourself that this time scarcity is a mindset,” she says. “The greatest gift of being human is our ability to shift our realities. Once a couple can recognize a perception that is hindering them from intimacy, such as less sunlight and time outside, they can then use their creativity to create a new dynamic and thrive in the winter.”

Below, Armstrong shares her best cold weather date ideas — both indoors and out — to help couples stay connected all season long.

Indoor cold weather date ideas

These ideas are best for when the weather is particularly nasty outside, or when you’d just prefer to take advantage of the coziness of home.

1. Try yoga

Exercising together is a surprisingly intimate experience. Armstrong suggests centering a date on yoga to encourage couples to build a bond that will grow throughout the evening.

“Take a couple’s restorative yoga class on the days you’re feeling extra exhausted,” she says. “Movement with your partner can help you feel in sync more biologically, especially if your love language is physical touch.

“Ultimately, it can help us enjoy deeper connections we all deeply crave. Even doing simple breathing exercises together can make for a really connecting date night at home.”

cold weather date ideas with virtual class

2. Take a virtual class together

Stretch yourselves as a couple this winter by tackling a new skill. “Learning something new on a date is always a good idea. It will encourage playing together, which is one of the best bonding activities for a couple,” Armstrong says.

You can learn without leaving the house by taking virtual instructional classes. Options abound, including flower arranging, succulent garden designing, and even gnocchi pasta making. Just purchase your ticket for your event of choice, and you’ll get all the necessary supplies shipped right to your home in time for date night. It’s a stress-free experience that will remind the two of you why you fell in love in the first place.

3. Stay in for movie night

Movies are a classic date activity for a reason — they create intimacy. “Watching a movie is a great way to connect physically with your partner without feeling pressure, ” Armstrong says. She suggests couples be extra intentional about sitting close together and setting aside time to discuss things afterward. “Share your insights and thoughts about what you’re watching. Let the movie become a point of connection instead of just spending a couple of hours ‘numbing out’ side by side.”

Keep things extra cozy with a custom couple’s throw blanket, and bring the movie theater experience home with you with an authentic assortment of candy and popcorn.

4. Have a happy hour at home

Weather outside too frightful to go out? Be your own bartender instead! “Use this as an opportunity to get creative together and have fun,” Armstong says. “Try mixing different cocktails together to see what combinations you can come up with, or take time to learn more about the wine you’re tasting. Playing together like this builds such a beautiful bond!”

cold weather date ideas with couple drinking mulled wine

If you’re feeling more adventurous, consider playing the long game and brewing your own beer or making your own mulled wine for date night. Your homemade drink should be ready to be enjoyed within a few weeks.

Outdoor cold weather date ideas

If you don’t mind the frosty conditions, or if you live somewhere where the winters don’t get too harsh, venture outside for these date night ideas.

5. Have a photo day

Forget the professional photoshoot this winter and have a DIY photo date instead. Armstrong recommends going someplace familiar — a favorite place in your city, an outdoor area you both enjoy visiting, even your backyard — to take pictures of each other.

“Use your joint creativity to find fun ways to document each other in these different places,” Armstrong says. “Really strive to capture the way you see the other person, how you find them beautiful and attractive.”

But the fun is only just beginning, Armstrong says. Get the photos developed and write love notes or your favorite silly poems on the back of the prints. Then randomly, over the next month, surprise each other with the photos planted in fun places, such as in lunches, on desks, in journals, or taped to mirrors.

“These little ways of creative connection will help you both feel loved and seen, and tap into a playful side of you that is full of the romance most couples really deeply desire,” Armstrong says.

Weeks later, you can put all the images in a photo book for a memorable keepsake.

6. Go sledding

cold weather date ideas with couple sledding

Weather permitting, here’s a cold weather date idea that lets you embrace your inner child. Bundle up and get ready for an adrenaline rush as you race down the hill together, or get a sled that’s big enough for both of you.

If you feel too old for hard plastic sleds, consider taking a more cushioned ride with an inflatable inner tube. They protect you against the worst of the bumps, and the elevation ensures you’re less likely to end up covered in snow. Some ski mountains also have snow tubing hills; if you live near one, check to see if this is an option.

Of course, all good sledding days should end with hot chocolate, so plan ahead by stocking up on some cute hot cocoa bombs that add to the cozy factor.

7. Check out the holiday lights

During the earlier stages of winter, Armstrong suggests couples take a trip around their community to take in the holiday light displays and decorations. “Turn this into a fun drive or walk around different areas of your town,” she explains. “See if you can find new creative ways to get there and take the long way around. Whatever you do, make a small adventure of it.”

If you choose to drive, make a custom playlist for the trip, Armstrong recommends. “Share music that you’ve forgotten about, bringing back some older music or new music you’ve discovered and can experience together.”

8. Explore a nature trail

It’s easy to go into hibernation mode in the winter, so Armstrong recommends moving your date to a natural space.

cold weather date ideas with couple walking through woods

“Getting out in nature is always helpful for us as humans,” she says. “So many studies have been done about the benefits of forest bathing, to help regulate us and keep us centered. It’s such a great way to bond as a couple.”

To get the most out of it, turn off your devices and spend time together being intentional about noticing the little things about your beautiful surroundings — and each other. You may find that a brisk walk in the woods reawakens you both to the initial attraction that made you start dating in the first place.

13 Fall Date Ideas to Heighten the Romance

Looking for a way to refresh your love life this autumn? Don’t “fall” into tired tropes! While apple picking and hay rides have their place, there’s a world of creative — and romantic — fall date ideas out there just waiting to be explored.

If you need some inspiration, here are 13 activities that will bring you and your special someone closer together.

1. Take part in a (virtual) workshop

If the weather’s too chilly to venture outdoors, you can learn a new skill from the comfort of your home by taking a virtual workshop from Alice’s Table. These pre-scheduled events follow the themes of the season; fall offerings, for example, range from making an “autumn sunset” floral arrangement to setting up a charcuterie board with seasonal foods to mixing spooky Halloween cocktails. Before each event, you’ll be mailed a package of supplies to ensure a seamless creative experience as you follow along with your expert host.

fall date ideas with couple cooking together — Photo courtesy of Alice’s Table

2. Enjoy a thrifted night on the town

Set a spending limit and hit up your favorite thrift store together. The goal? Buy each other outfits and accessories for an evening out — the crazier, the better! Once you’ve put on your new threads, go on a date to show them off. Make the evening even more fun by booking reservations at a high-end restaurant and noting how many other diners give your attire the side eye or the thumbs up

3. Experiment with local, seasonal ingredients

If the weather’s still pleasant, make a date out of a trip to the farmers market to buy produce and other ingredients you rarely reach for. Then, use your joint creativity to turn them into a home-cooked dinner.

Market not in season? Go online and purchase hard-to-find foods, such as a classic charcuterie collection with delicacies from around the world or an assortment of gourmet goodies with a bottle of cabernet sauvignon. Or, skip the cooking altogether and opt for comforting pre-made meals, such as chicken Wellington or lobster pot pie.

4. Become a sommelier at home

Forget visiting overpriced wineries this fall and create an intimate wine tasting experience at home instead. Many couples use a home tasting as an excuse to try bottles they’d never splurge on otherwise. You can’t go wrong with a rosé or reserve pinot noir, and pairing a bottle of wine with chocolate truffles will surely serve to expedite the romance. For fun, consider opening a variety of wines at different price points for a blind taste test to see if your palate can tell the difference.

5. Take a local food tour

Explore your own city like a tourist and discover the culinary delights it has to offer by booking a local food or beer tour. If you want to involve others, invite some couples along and book a beer trolley. It’s the chilliest (and safest) way to travel!

6. Go dancing (and not at a club)

Find a local event for an evening of dancing. Options abound in the fall for square dancing, swing, ballroom, and more! If you have two left feet, consider committing to a series of classes so you can show off your newfound skills on a future date.

fall date ideas with volunteering at animal shelter

7. Volunteer at a local animal shelter

If the two of you long to spend time with furry friends, a great idea for a fall date is a volunteer day at an animal shelter. Come with a willingness to get your hands dirty, and you’ll get rewarded with plenty of cuddle time. Further boost your impact by bringing treats or toys for the future adoptees.

8. Roll up some raw fish

Have you always wanted to try your hand at making sushi? Now’s your chance! Before you do, though, make sure you set yourselves up for success by investing in top-tier ingredients for your culinary experimentation, such as wild ahi tuna, Atlantic sea scallops, Alaskan halibut, or ikura (wild salmon eggs). Or take a shortcut and get yourself a poke kit. You’ll spend less time preparing the food and more time enjoying each other’s company (wink, wink).

9. Hop on a plane (or bus…or train) going anywhere

If you have a few days to spare, consider packing an overnight bag, heading to the nearest transportation hub, and booking tickets for wherever you feel inspired to go in that moment. Keep things open ended, and you might be amazed at the adventures that await you. This level of spontaneity can be especially fun if you both are Type A planners.

10. Enjoy some low-stakes gambling

Bring the thrill of a night at the casino into your home with some poker and other card games. You can choose the stakes — a week’s worth of the other person’s household duties, for instance — to create some friendly competition between the two of you.

11. Indulge in a home spa day

Give each other the gift of personal pampering with a home spa day. Splurge on luxury products, such as cozy spa robes, candles, and a luxurious spa set, to inspire the indulgence — and the romance.

12. Pull out your childhood photo albums

No matter how long you’ve been together, you are sure to have some childhood stories you haven’t shared. Pour a glass of wine and get out some old family photo albums for a cozy evening of reminiscing about the time before you met. We bet you’ll come across some forgotten tales to bond over.

13. Spend a night away, but make it local

There’s no reason to travel far when you’re just trying to get away from home. Rekindle the spark in your relationship with a romantic stay at a local bed and breakfast or trendy hotel. Give yourselves permission to spend the whole day relaxing and reconnecting, and you’ll come away from the staycation feeling a stronger sense of attraction to each other than ever.

An animated ad for 1800flowers.com's fall collection

75 Dad Jokes Guaranteed to Get a Laugh

dad jokes with a dad telling his sons a joke

Dads and their humor. Cringeworthy, am I right? It almost seems that as soon as a man becomes a father, his ability to create corny, hackneyed puns increases tenfold.

But these jokes may actually be good for his kids, and all kids. A study found that dad jokes, which are embarrassing, can help children build stamina when dealing with embarrassment as they grow into adults, resulting in being comfortable with who they are.

So, in honor of father’s everywhere, here’s a collection of dad jokes so bad that they’re actually funny. Try out your favorites on the kids. Caveat: You may get only some laughs, but we can guarantee lots of eye rolls.

75 of our favorite dad jokes

What’s the best kind of music to listen to when fishing? Something catchy.
How did the pirate get his ship for so cheap? It was on sail.
“Today my son asked me, ‘Can I have a bookmark’? I burst into tears — he’s 12 years old and still doesn’t know my name!”
Why do dads take an extra pair of socks when they play golf? In case they get a hole in one.
What do you call a fish with no eyes? A fsh.
Why don’t seagulls fly over the bay? Because then they’d be bagels (bay gulls).
“What comes once in a minute, twice in a moment but never in a thousand years? The letter M.”
What’s the best kind of bird to work for a construction company? A crane.
What did the T-Rex use to cut wood? A dino-saw.
“I got fired from my job as a taxi driver. It turns out nobody thought I was fare.”
What do you call a snake that loves building houses? A boa constructor.
Where do fish keep their money? In a river bank.
Why did the man put his money in the freezer? He wanted cold, hard cash.
When does it rain money? When there is a change in the weather.
Why don’t scientists trust atoms? Because they make up everything.
What do a tick and the Eiffel Tower have in common? They’re both Paris sites.
Why did the man get fired from the banana factory? He kept throwing away the bent ones.
“Whoever stole my depression medication — I hope you’re happy now.”
Why can’t a leopard hide? Because he’s always spotted.

A photo of dad jokes with an older dad telling his son and grandson a joke

What do you call two monkeys who share an Amazon account? Prime mates.
What do you call a penguin in the White House? Lost.
What do you call a kangaroo’s lazy joey? A pouch potato.
What did the llama say to his date? “Want to go on a picnic? Alpaca lunch.”
“Did you hear that I’m reading a book about anti-gravity? It’s impossible to put down.”
Which is faster, hot or cold? Hot, because you can catch a cold.
Which bear is the most condescending? A pan-duh.
What kind of noise does a witch’s vehicle make? Brrrroooom, brrroooom.
What’s brown and sticky? A stick.
“Singing in the shower is fun until you get soap in your mouth. Then it’s a soap opera.”
“I only know 25 letters of the alphabet. I don’t know y.”\
How does the moon cut his hair? Eclipse it.
What do you call a factory that makes OK products? A satisfactory.
What did the janitor say when he jumped out the closet? “Supplies!”
What did the buffalo say to his son when he dropped him off at school? “Bison!”
“I can tolerate algebra, maybe even a little calculus, but geometry is where I draw the line.”
Why do bees have sticky hair? Because they use a honeycomb.
What kind of music do chiropractors like? Hip pop.
What has five toes and isn’t your foot? My foot.

A photo of dad jokes with an older dad telling his son a joke

What did the cannibal choose as his last meal? Five Guys.
Me: “Go to bed, the cows are already asleep in the field.” Son: “So what?” Me: “It’s pasture bedtime.”
What do you call a Frenchman in sandals? Philippe Philoppe.
“I bought the world’s worst thesaurus yesterday. Not only is it terrible, it’s terrible.”
Why did the scarecrow get an award? Because he was out standing in his field.
What do you get if you cross an angry sheep with a moody cow? An animal that’s in a baaaaad mooood.
Can a kangaroo jump higher than the Empire State Building? Of course! Buildings can’t jump.
What did the sink tell the toilet? “You look flushed.”
What happens when a snowman throws a tantrum? He has a meltdown.
“I saw a 1,000-year-old oil stain; it was from ancient Greece.”
“My extra winter weight is finally gone. Now, I have spring rolls.”
Did you hear about the red and blue ships that collided? All the sailors were marooned.
My neighbor gave me a new roof for free. He said it was on the house.
Did you hear about the teenager who failed his driving test? He thought it was a crash course.
Where do surfers learn to surf? At boarding school.
A duck walks into a bar and buys everyone a round. He tells the bartender, “Put it on my bill.”
What do you call a wizard who’s good with ceramics? Harry Pottery.
Why did Marie Curie break up with the guy she was seeing? There was no chemistry.
Did you hear about the nurse who didn’t want to become a doctor? She didn’t have the patients.

dad jokes with dad laughing with father and son

Why did the tourist feel disappointed upon seeing the Liberty Bell? It wasn’t all it was cracked up to be.
How did Benjamin Franklin feel when he discovered electricity? He was shocked!
Why don’t the other farm animals like playing basketball with pigs? They’re ball hogs.
How do ghosts stay in shape? They exorcise.
What do rabbits need after getting caught in the rain? A hare dryer.
Why did the coach put the frog in the outfield? He was really good at catching flies.
What board game is popular in Prague? Czechers.
What kind of shoes does a lazy person wear? Loafers.
Why didn’t the invisible man go to the dance? He didn’t have any body to take.
“’Dad, did you get a haircut?’ ‘No, I got them all cut!'”
What did one candle say to the other? “Do you want to go out tonight?”
Why did the bed wear a disguise? It was undercover.
Why was the Incredible Hulk so good at gardening? He had a green thumb.
Why did the elephant quit his job? He was working for peanuts.
What did the shovel say to the sand? “I really dig you!”
What are the least expensive type of teeth? Buck teeth.
Why did the queen go to the dentist? To get crowns.

And, finally…

When does a joke become a dad joke? When it becomes apparent.

Gifts for Dad

How 20 Fabulous Moms Want to Spend Their Mother’s Day

Our series “Celebrating Motherhood” shares inspiring stories, helpful advice, and insightful recommendations to help you choose the perfect gifts to help you express your love for moms of all types. These Mother’s Day ideas will help mom celebrate the way she wants to, whether that’s sleeping, brunching, or spending time with her family.

Being a mom is a life-changing experience that comes with endless joy and fulfillment — but it also is a lot of work and carries with it a lot of responsibility. So when Mother’s Day rolls around, many moms want just one thing: to be relieved of their motherly duties.

Not to say gifts aren’t appreciated, but if you ask most moms how they’d like to spend the one day of the year that’s dedicated to them and only them, the most common answer you’ll hear is: “I just want some time to myself.”

We wanted to find out what specifically was on Mother’s Day wish lists, so we went straight to the source — 20 of them, to be exact. Here, 20 world-beating moms tell us what their ideal Mother’s Day consists of and what types of gifts they’d want to receive for this special day.

Spending time with family

mothers day ideas with mom playing with son

I just love to be with my family. We are all over the country and world right now, and when we all get together, it is love, plain and simple. Hanging out all day, at home with all of us, is my best Mother’s Day.

– Kerri Rosenthal, founder and creative director, Kerri Rosenthal

My wife and I were at a stalemate for Mother’s Day since we are a two-mom family. To give ourselves what we need — some quiet time away from our energetic 3-year-old — we are planning a day of fun for our toddler and his nana. We have a scavenger hunt, relaxation, and dinner planned for them so we can enjoy a few hours of nothing. My wife’s mother gets time with her grandson, and we get a break from hearing “mom/mommy/mama” every two minutes. It’s a win for everyone.

– Corritta Lewis, content creator at It’s a Family Thing

I want a mix of spending time with my family and on my own on Mother’s Day. I like to start the day with a 5K run to get my alone time and then spend the day with my family doing brunch or going on a day trip, like to the zoo. I find that balance is the perfect way to celebrate.

– Ali Van Straten, blogger at Champagne and Coffee Stains

We are planning a day of fun for our toddler and his nana. My wife’s mother gets time with her grandson, and we get a break from hearing ‘mom/mommy/mama’ every two minutes. It’s a win for everyone.

Corritta Lewis

Content creator, It’s a Family Thing

This is my first Mother’s Day, and I am so excited to be taking my son to his first baseball game. It’s a tradition that my mom, sister, and I started when I was in college and continued through moving cross country and growing families. Now we get to include our children, and my mom gets to spend time with her children and grandchildren.

– Megan Hildebrand, independent promoter with Pruvit

Experiencing an adventure

I love the outdoor life, and I can’t think of a better way to spend any day, let alone Mother’s Day, than being woken up by my kids with a plate of bacon, scrambled eggs, and toast, and a mug of steaming hot black coffee while relaxing in my big ol’ RV. Then I want to kick back and do as little as possible for the rest of the day, preferably in the company of a good book. That’s my idea of heaven.

– Jessica Vine, founder and CEO, rvidiots.com

The beach is our happy place. My ideal Mother’s Day would be to wake early, four-wheel it out to the beach, watch the sunrise with a cup of coffee, and snuggle up with my hubby and the kids. After that, we would head back for a homemade breakfast.

– Lauryn Vacey, founder, ilaStrate

a photo of mother's day ideas: relaxing on the beach

My ideal Mother’s Day would start by drinking warm tea (doesn’t have to be hot because, being a mom, sometimes it’s easy to forget you’ve made it!) on the beach while reading a book as my husband and kids collect oysters and mussels.

– Kirby Wilkerson, founder, The Impact Kind

I love to spend my Mother’s Day doing a fun adventure as a family. We usually go somewhere we don’t go very often, such as an aquarium or children’s museum. It’s fun to watch the kids’ faces light up with excitement as we spend our special day together.

– Elizabeth Manly, former teacher and mother of two

Some personal pampering

Coffee in bed, followed by breakfast made for me consisting of a croissant, cheese, and berries, and accompanied by gorgeous fresh flowers!

– Whitney Ross, founder, Whit & Well

I want morning cuddles and breakfast in bed with my family, followed by some alone time for a facial or massage. Motherhood is beautiful but hard, and making time for myself is so important!

a photo of mother's day ideas: mom relaxing with coffee and croissants

– Julia Dzafic, founder, Lemon Stripes

Every Mother’s Day, I have the same request: not making any food from morning ’til night. Although I love to cook and curate delicious recipes, it is a great feeling not to have to pick up one knife or wash one vegetable for one day. My kids and partner usually do all the cooking and make me breakfast in bed, and then later treat me to takeout or make reservations at a good restaurant. It has been like this for some time now, and I never want this tradition to end!

– Laura Ritterman, chef and recipe blogger at Recipe Fairy

When my boys were young, I always told my husband that all I wanted for Mother’s Day was for him to take the boys somewhere for a few hours so I could just be in the house alone. The quiet and stillness of a few hours was the best gift he could give me during that season of life.

– Marsha Fisher, senior manager of corporate communications, Workplace Options

As someone who is anti-diet and an intuitive eater, I am happy with a Mother’s Day brunch, enjoyed without guilt, one where I will be mentally present with my mom and my son and not worried about the food around me and my weight.

– Alana Van Der Sluys, founder, Freedom with Food and Fitness

Laura Ritterman

Chef and recipe blogger at Recipe Fairy

One of my favorite Mother’s Day activities is watching a movie because it means that I get to choose the title and the family can’t complain about it!

– Rachel Fink, CEO and founder, Parenting Pod

This year I’d like to spend Mother’s Day alone. I typically always spend it with my kids, but we’ve all spent a lot of time together with the pandemic, and I’m ready for some alone time. My dream day would include: a mani/pedi, trip to the beach, writing my book in a hotel room, cozying up in a robe and watching movies, and finishing the day with room service and a bath.

– Angela Marie Christian, writer, personal development and business coach, and mindfulness teacher

I would love to get a keratin treatment. I am always so busy catering to my kids that I forget about self-care. I have been delaying hair care for a long time, so this Mother’s Day will be a self-care day.

– Elisa Bender, co-founder, RevenueGeeks

Meaningful gifts

a photo of mother's day ideas: father and son with picture frames

Ever since I hit my mid-30s, my mind keeps wanting to invest in a foot massager. Walking around all day with my children can be a taxing way to spend the day. A foot massager would help get rid of painful pangs in my feet.

– Eduarda dePaula, entrepreneur and CEO, FindByPlate

Every year, my husband and son, Billy, have a photo book made with a collection of the best photos of Billy and me from the past year. They choose funny and endearing captions for many of the photos. I do the same thing for my husband on Father’s Day. It’s a wonderful family tradition.

– Dr. Chloe Carmichael, clinical psychologist and author of Nervous Energy: Harness the Power tribute to Your Anxiety

I want to create piece of a family artwork. I have never been good at painting, but seeing my children make handmade cards for me on Mother’s Day has been a source of pure joy for me. I want to recreate that memory by painting a big canvas with my family. Creating artwork together will be a great way to connect with my children and learn about their evolving personalities.

– Elizabeth Hicks, co-founder, Parenting Nerd

In recent years, as a Mother’s Day gift, I’ve asked my family to join me in a family photo session with a hired photographer. As mothers, we tend to be behind the camera, so having pictures with our kids and family can be a rarity. Capturing our family in each season of life through the years is something I will cherish forever and really has been the sweetest gift.

– Kristal Harris, founder, Hawleyton

5 Office Workers Share Their Best Gift Ideas for Administrative Professionals Day

The series “Rules of Workplace Gifting” shares tips on giving in the office, from customized office supplies to your staff to high-tech gadgets for your remote employees. These gift ideas for Administrative Professionals Day will show your appreciation for the administrative team in your life.

Working in an office can be exhausting, and no one knows that better than administrative professionals who keep businesses humming. From taking meeting minutes to greeting visitors to dealing with outside messages, there’s never a shortage of job responsibilities.

This year, don’t let these office heroes go unnoticed. April 26 is Administrative Professionals Day, and it offers the perfect opportunity to give these workers the recognition they deserve.

Need some inspiration for how to celebrate? We asked five administrative professionals to share the gifts they received that meant the most to them over the years, along with a few suggestions for what they’d love to get in the future.

AJ Silberman-Moffitt, senior editor at Tandem Buzz

As an administrative professional with more than 25 years of experience, AJ Silberman-Moffitt understands how important it is to be recognized for your work, no matter what your title is.

A few years ago, Silberman-Moffitt was working at a software company. Although her job title was not “administrative assistant,” she still received a gift for Administrative Professionals Day. “It was a small bouquet in an attractive vase, but it wasn’t the gift itself that was so meaningful,” she said. “The gift truly touched me because the company remembered to acknowledge all the administrative professionals in the office, not just those who had ‘assistant’ in their title.”

For Silberman-Moffitt, tangible gifts are meaningful, but words of affirmation go even further. “What I enjoy most, and I believe others do as well, is to be acknowledged for diligence and hard work. Getting that recognition from and feeling appreciated by coworkers and peers is invaluable.”

Christina Russo, creative director of The Kitchen Community

Sometimes, the most meaningful gifts come as you close a chapter professionally. That’s what happened to Christina Russo when she left a job to pursue other interests.

After Russo handed in her notice, her manager surprised her by giving her an all-expense-paid trip for two to Walt Disney World. “It was the company’s way of saying thank you, and I have to admit that it made me briefly reconsider my decision to leave!” Russo says. “It wasn’t just the best gift that I’ve been given in my career — it was also the best present I’ve ever had.

“And yes, the vacation was everything I hoped it would be.”

Despite this high bar, Russo’s the first to agree that not every office gift needs to be so flashy to make an impact. “I LOVE loaf cake!” she exclaims. “What more could any worker with a sweet tooth want on Administrative Professionals Day?!”

Catherine Berra, author at CatherineBerra.com

Office presents tend to be impersonal, but they certainly don’t need to be. Says Catherine Berra, “When I held a very niche job as a personal assistant to a wealthy philanthropist in Washington, D.C., I was given a week every year at their home in Jamaica, which was always amazing. One year they gave me a top-of-the-line treadmill!”

Despite this focus on fitness, Berra would never turn down a sweet treat or other tokens of appreciation to celebrate her work. “While flowers are always a nice mid-April gift for Administrative Professionals Day, I do love getting chocolate! Anything chocolate would be amazing, really, but especially chocolate-covered pretzels.”

Gift ideas for Administrative Professionals Day

administrative professionals day gift ideas with good day bouquet — Good Day™ Bouquet

administrative professionals day gift ideas with Thank You Fruit Sweets Gift Basket — Thank You Fruit & Sweets Gift Basket

administrative professionals day gift ideas with Greatest Appreciation Personalized Diamond Award — Greatest Appreciation Personalized Diamond Award

Sabrina Victoria, creator and CEO of Human Better 365

Most administrative professionals spend their working days sitting at a computer, and that can lead to back pain. For an extra thoughtful gift, get them something to ease their discomfort.

That’s what Sabrina Victoria received one year when she was an administrative assistant, in the form of a 90-minute massage. “I was so grateful for that gift and felt as if my boss had empathy for me that I was sitting at a desk hunched over a keyboard all day,” she said. “I felt heard and appreciated.”

When it comes to ideas for future gifts of appreciation, Victoria does not hesitate. “Popcorn! I always love popcorn.”

When it comes to memorable gifts for administrative professionals, it pays to be creative. That’s what made one particular gift special for Carol Gee, who for 13 years worked for a physician-scientist at a public health school at a well-known Atlanta university.

Over the years, her employer showed her appreciation of Gee’s hard work in many ways, including spa days, use of her timeshare, and flowers. But the “Lobster Gram” she gave her was by far the favorite gift Gee ever received. It contained two live Maine lobsters on ice, plus everything she needed to cook them (a large pot, lemon, butter, bibs, claw crackers, etc.). “Paired with veggies and a lovely merlot provided by another professor in my department, my husband and I enjoyed an amazing meal,” Gee remembers.

She has plenty of other ideas for future gifts she’d love to receive, too. “I adore flowers, especially exo t ic ones that remind me of the time I spent living in Panama with my husband.” She also loves the idea of more gourmet dinners at home, such as a gourmet prime rib feast.

6 Employee Activities for Spring to Help Re-energize the Workforce

Life at work can get monotonous. Your employees can stand to benefit from a change in their daily routine, especially in the spring. Scheduling employee engagement activities to help coworkers embrace the change in seasons can help boost morale and build camaraderie in the process.

If you want to set aside some time for group bonding but aren’t sure where to start, let these six ideas for employee engagement activities serve as inspiration.

1. Host group yoga sessions

Physical activity is a positive way to break up the work day, and the benefits multiply when you do it with others. Consider hosting group yoga sessions for the office either virtually, in a studio, or in a nearby park.

employee engagement activities with co-workers doing yoga

Sherry Morgan, founder and CEO of Petsolino in Beckley, West Virginia, hosts yoga classes for her employees every two weeks in the spring. “We hire a yoga instructor that could lead a one-hour yoga class for all of us,” she explains. “Since we work remotely, we used to hold the yoga classes via Zoom. This year, however, we plan to do it in a hybrid setting by renting a studio where willing employees can go visit and take the class in person.”

Make the most of the occasion by giving every participant a personalized yoga mat. Then, keep the wellness vibe going after class by ensuring everyone has access to healthy snacks, such as fresh fruit.

2. Take a hike

Spring is a time of change, and nowhere is a better place to appreciate this than the great outdoors. Organize a group hiking session in a nearby nature preserve to help your employees bond while breathing that fresh spring air. You can keep things casual or establish a topic for group discussion; you may find that everyone’s creativity gets supercharged as the endorphins start flowing.

At the end of the excursion, treat the team to a picnic lunch with some spring-themed desserts to top it off.

3. Organize a wine tasting

If your team would rather get together in a less strenuous way, organize a company-wide wine tasting. The event can take place at a local winery, or, if you prefer, you can ship everyone their bottles in a thank you box to enjoy at home during a Zoom session. Wine, cheese, and chocolate always go together, so make sure you have plenty of each on hand. Make sure to also supply non-alcoholic beverages for those who prefer not to drink.

employee engagement activities with co-workers at a wine tasting

If your team is up for it, you can upgrade the experience to a “paint and sip” party. Let everyone break out their paintbrushes and tap into their hidden artistic talents. “Paint and sip events are a great way for teams to unwind and reconnect after a long day, or week, of work,” says Dana Case, director of operations at MyCorporation.com, a leading provider of business formation services. “It also allows everyone to relax and share their inner creativity.”

4. Stage a photography competition

The changing seasons are a perfect time to hold a spring photography competition. This can work as either a team or solo activity. Give everyone up to a month to take and submit their favorite photos of spring scenes, and then develop them to display around the office.

On a given day, have everyone vote for their favorites, and then present awards for different categories (best animal shot, best landscape, etc.). The winners can receive gift certificates to local businesses or a congratulatory gift of flowers or food.

5. Volunteer at a local charity

There’s no better way to show how far you’ve come as a company than dedicating a day to giving back. “Springtime is all about new beginnings, and allowing your coworkers to help people in their community is enough to boost anyone’s morale,” says Ouriel Lemmel, CEO and founder of WinIt, an app that helps users challenge parking and traffic tickets.

“It’s even more meaningful if this charity work is somehow related to their jobs,” Lemmel continues. “One great example of this would be a financial institution that encourages their employees to take one day out of the month to teach money-saving skills to the people in their community and help them increase their financial literacy.”

employee engagement activities with co-workers volunteering

Keep the good deeds going by celebrating your hard work with office snacks that support Smile Farms, a nonprofit organization that provides developmentally disabled adults with meaningful work opportunities at farms, urban gardens, greenhouses, and farm stands.

6. Plant new roots

Get everyone outdoors and working on a project you all will benefit from by starting an office garden. Consider setting up some raised beds outdoors, or, if space is a concern, creating mini container gardens along windowsills. You can keep things organized post-planting with custom plant markers for each variety.

“Gardening is a great way to spend a day talking and relaxing together, choosing which flowers to grow, and going through the planting process,” shares Megan Jones, a community outreach manager for NutraSweet Natural, a zero-calorie natural sweetener.

“Our collaborative gardening day is dedicated to planting flowers in a small garden that the team can then enjoy during their break times.” Jones continues. “It’s a lot of fun because the results are seen throughout the year. The garden becomes a constant reminder of what teamwork can achieve and about how everyone in the business has an impact.”

Picture of banner ad for spring bulb event

5 Spring Equinox Activities to Celebrate the Changing Seasons

“Nurturing Relationships” shares advice on how to stay connected with others and spend quality time with those closest to you. These spring equinox activities will revitalize your spirit and get the whole family excited for the nicer weather ahead.

Winter, and all that goes with it, can feel like a never-ending slog. Fortunately, we are beginning to emerge from the cold season and warmer days are here. Spring is coming!

This year, the spring equinox, also known as the vernal equinox, is Sunday, March 19. On that day, the season in the Northern Hemisphere will switch from winter to spring (and from summer to fall in the Southern Hemisphere), and the days officially become longer than the nights, whereas the opposite is true south of the equator.

It also can serve as a day of reflection and anticipation for what’s ahead — namely, warmer weather and, ultimately, summer.

“Celebrating the vernal equinox is a way to connect with nature,” explains Barbi Gardiner, a gardener and forager, and founder of The Outdoor Apothecary. “It is a way to be mindful of earth’s magic and to recognize that this day is a day of perfect balance, when the sun can be seen directly above the earth’s equator and when light and dark are completely equal. It signals a period of new beginnings, cleansing, rebirth, and renewal.”

If you’re looking for creative ways to celebrate this changing of the seasons, let these ideas serve as inspiration.

1. Spend time in nature

Longer days and warmer weather mean it’s time to get outside. “Research shows that nature can improve your health and mental wellness, so there’s no downside to getting outside to enjoy the sunshine!” Gardiner says.

spring equinox activities: family on a picnic

Take a hike as a family or participate in a more mindful activity, advises Genesis Sampson, blogger at In Its Season. “One of my favorite mindfulness activities to do to celebrate the equinox is to go on a long, slow walk to experience my surroundings on a more physical level, actively engaging all my senses,” Sampson says. “Most importantly, this is the first walk of the season where I remove my gloves and touch everything I see. The feeling of a tree under your bare hands is such an amazing feeling after months of wearing gloves!”

Be intentional about taking in all that’s changing with the season, and you’ll come away feeling more in touch with the outside world.

2. Enjoy a spring family feast

Good food puts everyone in a celebratory mood, as does the start of spring. A box of festive treats will have everyone feeling the positive vibes.

Research shows that nature can improve your health and mental wellness, so there’s no downside to getting outside to enjoy the sunshine!

Barbi Gardener

Founder, The Outdoor Apothecary

You can also channel the spirit of the changing season by sticking with locally grown, seasonal ingredients. Consider shopping at a nearby farmers market to gather some homemade or homegrown delicacies, such as home-baked bread, tender spring greens and shoots, and rhubarb or strawberry desserts. If it’s warm enough, take the meal outdoors and enjoy your first family picnic of the year.

Eggs are also a classic choice for spring-themed meals. They traditionally symbolize fertility, life, and rebirth — all things we celebrate with the coming of spring. (There’s also that bit about the vernal equinox being the only day of the year when you can balance an egg on its end. Not true!) Preparing an egg-based brunch for the whole family or spending time together dyeing eggs (they aren’t just for Easter!) are great ways to make the most of the season.

3. Get planting

There’s no better sign of the start of spring than new plant growth. If the weather allows, you can celebrate the equinox by enjoying spring bulbs that are starting to sprout outdoors, such as tulips, daisies, and irises.

spring equinox activities: woman planting

This is also the time to get seeds in the ground. Shannon Bernadin, botanist and owner of The African Garden, suggests turning planting into a communal experience. “For me, spring is all about renewal and rebirth, bringing life back to barren gardens. My favorite way to do this is to invite my friends and family over for a planting party,” Bernadin says. “Everybody gets to plant one flower or one seed, and when the garden begins to bloom, I have fond memories of a day I got to spend with all the people that I love.”

Consider planting flower seeds so you can enjoy blooms throughout the summer. Use the spring equinox as the starting date for a small kitchen herb garden or beautiful Seeds of Life tree.

4. Make spring-themed decorations

If Old Man Winter still has a hold on the weather, you can always celebrate the changing of the seasons in your home with spring-themed decorations.

This might include creating handmade wreaths to display around the house and flower crowns for kids and dolls alike. Other spring crafts ideas include making your own planter cover and DIY moss art to hang around the home. You can also enhance the charm of your homemade décor with cute bunny– or chick-shaped planters filled with spring flowers.

5. Take a ‘bath’

Doing things together as a family is great, but it’s also important to have some alone time. Spring is a chance for a fresh start, and that can mean giving yourself a physical and spiritual reset.

spring activities: woman taking a relaxing bath

As Demesha Page, marketing director for Art for Your Cause, explains, “I like to boost my energetic vibrations by taking a ‘spiritual bath,’ to cleanse my mind and spirit. This helps boost psychic energy in order to set and manifest the intentions that I create for the upcoming season.”

This can mean smudging your home with sage or palo santo wood to remove negative energy, lighting calming candles, or taking a rejuvenating bubble bath with aromatherapy products designed to keep you centered and relaxed. Page says, “I use bath time to soak, float, meditate, and set my intentions for whatever I want to manifest and see in my future.”

7 Ways to Hang on to the Last Days of Summer

While sweltering summer days tend to drag on, the hot weather won’t last forever. Shorter days and cooler nights are signs that fall is fast approaching, and with the back-to-school season comes busier schedules and less time for family.

Feeling sad at the thought of summer drawing to a close? You’re not alone. Many parents attempt to fit in some memorable summer activities to enjoy the last warm, sunny days before things get busy again.

Here are seven ways families can hang onto the last days of summer.

1. Make meal times memorable

Longer summer days mean more time for meals as a family. “Before the kids go back to school, make a dinner table sanctuary,” suggests Tammy Fry, mom, author, and certified plant-based nutritionist. “Eating around a table is really important for conscious eating and making the most of the remaining summer meals together.” This way, your family can be mindful of the time spent together.

She recommends putting the focus on family time by making the table a tech-free zone: no TV, phones, or headphones. You can also pack a summer picnic and eat outdoors, even if you don’t venture farther than the backyard. Everyone will enjoy the change of scenery, and eating outdoors even improves your health by exposing your gut biome to new bacteria.

2. Explore the farmers market

Garden produce tends to peak around late summer, so consider taking your kids to the farmers’ market to explore its offerings. This provides the perfect opportunity to learn about what’s in season and experiment with fresh produce you wouldn’t purchase otherwise.

“Mother Earth knows what you need and when you need it,” Fry says. Cooking with your farmers’ market finds gives the whole family an opportunity to be creative in the kitchen, too. Just remember to keep the menu simple so the kids can help you through every step without getting bored or overwhelmed.

3. Take a road trip to a different city

You don’t need to travel far to have a summer adventure. Lorie Anderson, a parenting blogger at MomInformed, recommends taking a road trip, even if only to a nearby destination.

“For kids who love getting out and seeing new places, a road trip to a different city can often be done on the cheap,” she says. “It will give kids an opportunity to experience a sense of adventure while giving them a last taste of the relaxing days of summer.”

4. Have a family game day

Take advantage of those long summer evenings to host a week of family sports events inspired by the Olympic Games! Anderson recommends creating a leaderboard to track scores and playing a different game every evening after dinner. Use your creativity to tailor the events to all ability levels…even board games are fair game!

Make things extra special by awarding a trophy to the week’s winner and playing their favorite song in celebration at the “podium.”

5, Let your kids host a back-to-school party

Make the end of summer memorable with a send-off party planned entirely by your kids. This could include planning the menu (including some summer-themed cookies), picking some yard games, and making invitations for their friends.

“The key is to have them do the work, so they can see how much time and effort it takes to pull off a party,” Anderson says.

This might require some investment and patience on your part, but if everything goes well, the experience will teach them about responsibility, and they’ll get satisfaction from knowing they created such an enjoyable time for them and their friends.

6. Take a nature walk

Take advantage of warm summer weather by going on a family nature walk. Parenting expert Ellen Pober Rittberg suggests making it interactive by collecting interesting rocks, leaves, and shells along the way. This keeps little ones engaged and gives you a project to focus on at the end.

“Afterward, you can create a group nature picture from what you’ve gathered,” she shared.

7. Set up a backyard photo booth

Preserve your summer memories for years to come by setting up a backyard photo booth. Mo Mulla, founder of Parental Questions, shares that this not only is a meaningful way to celebrate the end of the summer but ensures you have family pictures for holiday cards. “Photos of happy times with parents and kids always make for an incredibly joyous holiday season,” Mulla says.

Just drape a white sheet over a fence or against the side of the house, and make sure you have plenty of props on hand for spontaneous poses.

6 Ways to Care for a Flower Bouquet

A flower bouquet fits any occasion, but nothing will dampen your enthusiasm faster than watching it wilt before its time. Taking proper care of a flower bouquet requires more than merely plopping blooms into a vase. Knowing what to do can add a week — or more — to their lifespan.

Here are six easy steps for receiving and arranging a flower bouquet to ensure it stays beautiful for as long as possible.

1. Clean and sterilize your vase

You are risking ruin by placing fresh flowers in an unclean vase, which likely contains bacteria from previous bouquets that can weaken the blooms. Wash the vase with soapy water beforehand and give it a rinse with diluted bleach when you’re done with it so it’s ready for its next use.

2. Trim the stems

Most cut flowers will start to “seal up” the base of their stem within hours of being harvested, thus preventing them from taking in water. To counteract this effect, you’ll need to recut each stem before placing it in a vase. A 2-centimeter diagonal cut works best, as this maximizes the stem’s surface area for taking in moisture. Use a sharp knife instead of scissors — and cut on a flat surface, such as a cutting board — so you don’t crush the stem.

flower bouquet with cutting flower stems

Consider also whether you want to cut the blooms down in height. A shorter stem means less distance for water to travel, which can make the flowers last longer.

3. Center the arrangement around the largest flowers

While we all have our preferences, the most aesthetically pleasing way to arrange a flower bouquet is to put the biggest blooms in the middle and surround them with the smaller flowers and those that haven’t bloomed yet. Once you like the arrangement, group the stems with a loose rubber band to keep them aligned in the vase.

4. Add water and flower food

Flowers are a lot like humans — they need to stay hydrated. Fresh, filtered water is crucial for long-lasting blooms. The amount depends on your flower type. Fill vases two-thirds full if they contain woody varieties, such as hydrangeas or roses; soft, green-stemmed flowers, such as lilies or tulips — the 2022 Flower of the Year — need it just half filled.

Cool water is preferred, as warm water will travel up the stems faster and accelerate the blooming process. You can also add a flower food packet, which typically comes with the bouquet. Most food packets consist of a sugar solution that nourishes the flowers and limits bacteria in the water to keep it fresh.

5. Place in a protected space

Fresh flowers last best in a cool, ventilated space that’s away from direct sunlight. Watch out for drafty windows and doorways, and keep the arrangement away from fruit, as the ethylene gas that fruits release while ripening will speed up the flowers’ decay. Hey, we love fruit, but it just doesn’t mix with flowers.

6. Monitor water and remove wilting flowers

Check the vase’s water daily and top it off as evaporation occurs. Change the water out completely whenever it goes cloudy, cleaning out the vase each time (see step No. 1). This also provides the perfect opportunity to remove any wilting flowers, rearrange the remaining blooms, and recut the stems for improved water absorption.

Follow these six steps, and you can significantly extend the lifespan of any flower bouquet. You’ll be amazed at how much more enjoyment you get from every bloom when you aren’t stressed about how long they will survive.