4 Ways to Rock 2015

Welcome to 2015! With the New Year many people are setting new goals and reflecting on what they've learned so far. This year set yourself up for success and growth by adding some of these to your list of things to do:

Write 3 letters to people who mean the most to you. This is a great way to let people know how much they mean to you and reflect on what they've done to make you who you are today.

Volunteer. One of my favorite sites for volunteer experiences is Volunteermatch.org. This is a great way to get out there and serve your community. Plus, you can meet new people and build new friendships.

Schedule family time. It is so easy to get wrapped up in the various of commitments of work and other responsibilities that we neglect family. Take time to break away from your commitments to be with your family. Side note, leave behind your electronics so you can give them your full attention.

Try something that scares you. One of the best ways to give over fear is to do something that scares you. Example, if you are scared of heights why not skydive? Or go on that ride that scares you? Or, if that is too big, why not stand by the rail in the mall and look down? No matter what it is, if you try something that scares you every day you are closer to overcoming your fear.

For a full list of things to try, check out this great article by Success.com

Fun Things Going on in Ogden

The Christmas season is here! With this wonderful time of the year, there are so many fun things to see and do around Ogden. Grab the family or make it a date night and check out some of these fun concerts going on.

Imagine Ballet Theatre presents The Nutcracker, playing December 12-20, 2014 at Peery’s Egyptian Theatre. Tickets range from $12 to $25 (based on proximity to stage) with a $1.50 facility fee. For more information or to order your tickets, call the Smithstix at 801-689-8700 or in person at the Box Office (M-F, 2-6 pm).

The Kingston Trio will be performing at the Egyptian Theatre on December 9, 2014. Presented by the Egyptian Theater Foundation “The Kingston Trio was the number one vocal group in the world, a musical and cultural phenomenon whose record sales and concert draws were matched only by The Beatles.” Don’t miss out on spending an evening with this mesmerizing group. For tickets call, 801-689-8700.

Utah Symphony Family Series presents Here Comes Santa Claus, December 20, 2014. Playing at the Val A. Browning Center for the Performing Arts this is a show the whole family can enjoy. Tickets range in price from $8-$36. For more information and to purchase tickets, call 801-399-9214.

Thanksgiving Traditions

Thanksgiving is one of my favorite times of the year. Growing up, watching the Macy’s Day Thanksgiving Parade (side note, the parade was first held in 1924) was a huge tradition in our home. Football is another tradition for many people along with turkey comas and pumpkin pie.

Speaking of pumpkin pie, do you know where the tradition of pumpkin pie, stuffing, and all the other Thanksgiving staples came from? Sarah Josepha Hale is the person we can thank for giving us these wonderful recipes that have become a huge part of our celebration. Although her name might not ring any bells to you, I believe you’ll recognize her famous poem, “Mary had a Little Lamb.”

This year, start some new traditions with your family with these fun ideas:

• Play touch football
• Share Thanks ~ have everyone go around the table and say what they are thankful for
• Have a Kids Talent Show ~ have the kiddos show off their talents (this is a good time for adults to release their inner child so let them play too!)
• Family Tree ~ research and share your family tree with the younger generations
• Volunteer at a Local Soup Kitchen, here are 4 charities around the Ogden area to volunteer at:
• St. Anne’s Center http://www.stannescenter.org/volunteer.html
• Ogden Food Pantries http://www.foodpantries.org/ci/ut-ogden
• Catholic Community Services http://www.ccsutah.org/programs/basic-needs-services

Buy These New, Not Used

When it comes to furnishing your home, who doesn't like a bargain? I’m a big fan of up-cycling furniture and have recently revamped my bedroom set. But when it comes to scouting out that ideal purchase, there are some things you may want to consider buying new.

Mattresses. Although they can be expensive, this is one purchase you will be happy you bought new. Things like bed bugs, mold, mildew, pet dander, and bodily fluids are not always visible. As you think of all the gross aspects of buying a used mattress, the price of a new mattress is worth it in the long run.

Car Seats. With the ever changing safety regulations, having a new car seat for child is important and worth the price as you know your child is safe. Plus,it is not always easy to detect if something is wrong with the seat or broken.

Bike Helmets. When you buy a new bike helmet you are assured their is no damage to the interior of the helmet. Whereas, buying used there is guarantee of that. Protect yourself and your family by purchasing a helmet that meets all the safety regulations.

Have you ever bought something used you later regretted?

Saving Money During the Holidays

I love this time of year. Christmas lights, hot chocolate, and shopping. For many people though shopping is not something to look forward to. Never Mind the crowds, but for the financial stress it brings. Don’t let financial concerns and a maxed out credit card ruin your Christmas season. Here are some tips to saving money this Christmas and still have a great holiday with your loved ones.

Decide how much you CAN spend. Many people get into trouble because they overlooked the little extra things like postage stamps for your Christmas cards or home decorations.

Make a list and double check them. How much do you want to spend on each person? How many people do you have to buy for? Who do you need to buy for? Having a clear idea of who you are shopping for and how much you want to spend on each person can help you stay in your budget.

Pay with cash. This is a favorite of mine (and a life saver!) Similar to Dave Ramsey’s Envelope system, use cash when making your purchases and stick to your budget.

Here is a full list of things to do to make the holiday season and not break the bank.

Halloween Fun!

Join us for a day of food and fun this October 31st. Party begins at 11:30 am and goes until closing time.  We love costumes, so be sure to share your best scary, goofy, or anything!

Location: 579 Heritage Park Blvd, Layton, Utah.