What are your plans for this weekend? It’s gotten chilly in New York! Last night, the guys and I enjoyed the Christmas lights in Dyker Heights while sipping hot chocolate and listening to festive music. It’s now a cherished tradition for us, and we look forward to it every year. Wishing you a lovely weekend—here are some interesting links from across the internet…
Big Salad’s Greatest *Everything* of 2024, featuring an alluring movie, trendy gay jeans, Irish swimming adventures, and an important parenting epiphany. No paywall!
We’re also providing a 20% discount on Big Salad subscriptions (including all the juicy back issues). We truly appreciate you and our fantastic readers!
Invisible apple cake, yum!
A stick library designed for dogs.
J.Crew is having a MASSIVE sale — this beanie! this barn jacket! — and orders placed by Sunday will arrive in time for Christmas Eve.
Such a lovely and simple way to adorn a Christmas tree.
Reasons to join a board game club. “People are so excited to meet new friends… There’s something wonderfully calming about a chessboard, where you can share silence with a stranger while concentrating, or engage in a lively chat.” (NYTimes gift link)
Ooh, a striking camembert salad. (NYTimes gift link)
Guidelines for modern living. “If you find yourself in an empty restaurant, don’t hesitate to ask them to reduce the music volume. If it’s crowded, then you must adapt and remember for next time.”
A producer takes a crack at pitching The Nutcracker, haha.
The ultimate last-minute gift that everyone adores.
Plus, three reader insights:
Says Sarah about a holiday game suggestion: “The Number Game is a huge favorite with my two neurodivergent boys. We love playing it on the platform while waiting for our train of the day, and sometimes strangers join us! A few weeks back, we had the whole platform participating, and when four folks shouted ‘NINETEEN!’ together, everyone couldn’t help but laugh and cheer alongside my kids. It warms my heart to see how many strangers are kind to my unique boys.”
Says Lauren O. about a marriage proposal involving fruit jams: “If the couple didn’t enter their wedding reception to Technotronic’s ‘Pump Up the Jam,’ then everyone in this story is dismissed.”
Says Summer about gratitude: “This comment section feels reminiscent of the time Elmo asked how everyone was feeling on Twitter, and then everyone opened up and shared honestly. We truly needed this outpouring. It’s incredible to remind ourselves of the diverse and complicated nature of life through glimpses into others’ experiences. It made my burdens feel lighter today.”
(Photo by Kristin Duvall/Stocksy.)
Note: If you make a purchase through our links, we may receive an affiliate commission or have a sponsorship arrangement with the brand, at no expense to you. We only endorse products we sincerely appreciate. Many thanks.
**Suggestions for a Cozy and Relaxing Weekend**
Weekends present the perfect chance to pause from the hustle of everyday life and rejuvenate your mind, body, and spirit. When the weather is warm, the opportunities for relaxation and enjoyment broaden even more, providing a chance to bask in the sunshine and embrace the outdoors. Whether you want to unwind alone or spend meaningful time with dear ones, here are some suggestions for maximizing a warm and soothing weekend.
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### 1. **Plan, Yet Remain Adaptable**
While being spontaneous can be invigorating, a bit of planning can significantly ease your weekend experience. Consider a few activities you’d like to engage in, such as visiting a park, hosting a backyard barbecue, or treating yourself to a spa day at home. That said, allow for adaptability—weekends should feel refreshing instead of constrictive. If plans are altered or you find yourself wanting to simply relax, go with the flow!
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### 2. **Kick Off Your Day with a Morning Routine**
Gently start your weekend mornings with a soothing ritual that sets a positive tone for the day. This might be as simple as enjoying coffee or tea on your balcony, practicing yoga or meditation, or taking a leisurely stroll in your neighborhood. Morning routines assist you in transitioning from work mode to a more relaxed ambiance, allowing you to savor the day.
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### 3. **Embrace the Outdoors**
Warm weather beckons you to step outside and reconnect with nature. Here are a few ways to enjoy the sunshine:
– **Park Picnic:** Pack your favorite snacks, grab a blanket, and pick a good book. Find a tranquil spot beneath a tree for a serene afternoon.
– **Beach or Lake Outing:** If a water body is nearby, spend the day swimming, paddleboarding, or simply sunbathing.
– **Gardening:** Caring for plants can be serene and fulfilling. Utilize the weekend to enhance your garden or plant a small herb patch.
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### 4. **Disconnect and Unplug**
One of the finest paths to genuine relaxation is disconnecting from technology. Switch your phone to silent mode, steer clear of work emails, and resist the temptation to scroll through social media. Instead, focus on immersing yourself in the moment. Read a book, listen to music, or enjoy meaningful conversations with friends and family.
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### 5. **Savor Comfort Foods and Beverages**
A warm weekend is a splendid reason to indulge in seasonal delights. Ignite the grill for a barbecue, prepare a fresh salad with summer ingredients, or create a batch of refreshing lemonade or iced tea. If you’re in an adventurous mood, experiment with crafting tropical cocktails or mocktails while lounging in the sun.
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### 6. **Establish a Peaceful Home Environment**
If you prefer staying indoors, convert your space into a relaxation haven. Light aromatic candles, play soothing music, and declutter your surroundings to cultivate a calm atmosphere. Think about creating a cozy outdoor nook with string lights, cushions, and a hammock for an enchanting evening under the stars.
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### 7. **Dive Into a Hobby or Creative Pursuit**
Weekends are prime time to engage in hobbies or discover new interests. Whether it’s painting, baking, photography, or playing an instrument, participating in creative endeavors can be profoundly satisfying and relieve stress. Warm weather also presents opportunities for outdoor hobbies like biking, hiking, or birdwatching.
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### 8. **Focus on Self-Care**
Allocate some time to pamper yourself. Enjoy a prolonged bath with essential oils, treat yourself to a DIY facial, or take a guilt-free afternoon nap. Self-care is crucial for replenishing your energy and enhancing your overall well-being.
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### 9. **Engage with Family and Friends**
Warm weekends are perfect for cultivating quality moments with family and friends. Organize a casual gathering, embark on a group hike, or host an outdoor movie night with a projector. Strengthening your relationships can fill your weekend with joy and fulfillment.
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### 10. **Conclude the Weekend on a Positive Note**
As Sunday evening approaches, avoid fixating on the forthcoming workweek. Instead, aim to finish your weekend with a tranquil activity that leaves you feeling invigorated. This might entail journaling, watching a feel-good film, or preparing a simple yet delightful dinner. Reflect on the weekend’s highlights and carry that positivity into the coming week.
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### Final Reflections
A warm and relaxing weekend is about achieving balance—discovering the right combination of activity and rest that aligns with your mood and needs. By embracing self-care, engaging with nature, and spending time with loved ones, you can curate a weekend that feels both restorative and enjoyable. Remember, weekends are your opportunity to rejuvenate, so relish them in ways that uplift you.
