Instead of hoping for snow this year, we poked fun at the sun. We brought some craft sand inside and made a Christmas village display at the beach. The blue bead tides and candy cane eating shark toys sat on our mantle as we added photos of our faces to the scene. When we went to the actual beach, the lifeguard stand was decorated with Christmas lights and wreaths painted on extra lifesavers.

There were a few Christmas photo shoots going on near the shore. Some of them were funny photos with rolled up pant leg Santas standing near their Mrs. Claus or elf counterparts. The other half were serious families with large color coordinated outfits that would go in hanging frames or generational photo books. We just took selfie photos of our sandmen (or Sandmounds) and patted them into a mountain of shells and sticks before we left. We talked about who had the best one and “if they became magical, like Frosty”. Would it be called Sandy?

We had our gingerbread men, hot chocolate, and Christmas feast food with the option of chocolate popsicles late at night when the humid heat kept us awake. We could go outside late in the evening and listen to crickets chirp while we set up a picnic blanket. There wasn’t any sunlight in our eyes and lanterns kept at a distance set up a calm mood. We could sit or lie down or play a card game.  Our far out friends and family gave us beach bags and totes stuffed with gifts when their ugly sweaters went out of season (It was really useful when you could take a nap on your own while the games quieted down).

The nights after Christmas were filled with oscillating fans and leftover chocolate popsicles. At one point, we planned an indoor snowball fight with fake cotton snowballs and blankets to hide behind. The second we started throwing, the heat had already won the battle. All of us were spread out on the floor like leftover snow angels.

New Year’s heat kept us inside after we were drained by the constant loss of sweat and the fireworks popping in the middle of the night. We watched the ball drop and blew bubbles with whatever air was left in us to save for the mess of confetti and fireworks. I thought of eating twelve ice cubes under the table for the celebration, but I feel like I would be the only one to choke. We decided it was safe to drink at least twelve glasses of water tomorrow. To keep it fun, the person who drank less than twelve glasses of water had to get pelted with the cotton snowballs. Everybody started on their first glass after that.

Although we couldn’t bring winter wonderland to us we still had a blast and made some memories that couldn’t be outdone. Some days gave us moments to rest and the others let us have some fun. When life got busy again, we thought of some ideas for another heatwave holiday.

 What are some of yours?

Photo by Alexey Demidov on Unsplash

The post Green Winter Memory – Some Ideas for a Warm Winter Season appeared first on GirlSpring.

1. Host a Sleepover/Party:

You can never go wrong with having a sleepover or party. You could even mix them and have a party, and then people can spend the night. The party could include games, you could make dinner or order pizza, do nails. There are so many fun options of what to do, whether it’s activities or whether it’s food on Pinterest. Of course a movie is always a great idea too. You could watch a cheesy rom-com to celebrate the day. Some great classics include “10 Things I hate about you”, and “13 Going on 30”.  

2. Charcuterie Board Night:

If you haven’t seen this trend on TikTok, you should look it up. It is such a unique spin on having people bring their own food for a get together or a party! Everyone can bring their own charcuterie board with different foods on it. This can be anything from a chicken nugget board, candy board, to a pizza board. And the great thing about it is, you can put as little or as much effort into it as you want.

3. Make a “Date” Night:

This might work better if it is just you and one friend, however you could really do this with as many people as you want, it just might get a bit tricky. But basically the idea is that you plan a date night and ask the other person (or people) on a date with you. It is a fun way to make someone feel special on Valentine’s Day, and you can go as simple or full out with this as you want to. You could have a picnic, go out to a fancy restaurant, go get dessert, etc.. Whatever is something that you and the other person will enjoy. It doesn’t even have to be surrounded by food; this can be a movie night or something like bowling even.

4. Tea Party:

This might sound abnormal and weird even, but this could be something nice and different than what you would normally do with your friends. You could set a theme such as Alice in Wonderland, all dress up, and make food surrounding the theme. This also provides a great opportunity for pictures, which is always a nice bonus. And the good thing about this option is you can do this wherever, and you can find lots of inspiration on Pinterest for hosting a tea party.

5. Plan a Photoshoot:

Who doesn’t love an excuse to get dressed up and take pictures with your besties? Put on some cute outfits, try a new hairstyle, do a sparkly makeup look. There are endless ideas for backdrops, poses, outfits, etc. online. Pick some that you like and have a fun time. You could put on some music and get some props, and just make it into a whole event. Bonus points if you also make some TikToks!

For more ways to celebrate Galentine’s Day, click here!

And check out this fun Girl Spring Quiz: Plan a Galentine’s Day Celebration and We’ll Tell You What Type of Friend You Are!

The post How To Celebrate Galentine’s Day appeared first on GirlSpring.

Hey there!

Welcome to the GirlSpring Book Club! This a fun monthly collab with the Springboarder Bookclub members,  where we share our monthly book reviews. Check out our book review below!

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Everything I Know About Love by Dolly Alderton

August Intoccia:

This book has a captivating plot that makes you want to read more. The layout of the book is intriguing and the language is warm and welcoming. There is strong female characters and an emphasis on female friendships. Overall this is a great book, and I would definitely recommend it. 

Jaina:

This heartfelt book on love explores how a young girl navigates her love life, crushes, boyfriends, lovers, exes and in between. I enjoyed this book as it talked about her life in the early 2000s and on through high school and college. One thing I enjoyed about this book is that her friend Farley, always stuck by her side. She shows in the book how she overcame negative obstacles and chose to love herself for who she is. It teaches valuable lessons in acceptance, love, crushes and self-image.

Sage Davis:

This book was so interesting to me. To be honest, at first I thought I wouldn’t like it because it was a memoir, but I found it to be enjoyable. I listened to the audio book which is a completely different experience because the author was reading it. I really got the feel of the people. I think this book is relatable on so many different levels and it’s worth the read. It makes you take a step back and look inside yourself and in your life. I love the emphasis on female friendships. I think in today’s society, there aren’t many honest and well-intentioned friendships. Friends that will stick by your side no matter what. That’s what I love most about this book.

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Thanks for reading! Want to join us? Fill out this quick interest form, here – we’d love to have you!

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Book Info

Want to buy the book? Click here

You can find this book in audio form, with Audible or Spotify!

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book sticker by flatcoin.com

The post Book Review: Everything I Know About Love by Dolly Alderton appeared first on GirlSpring.

Summer gives children a break from school routines, but it’s more than a pause. It’s a chance to grow in ways that the classroom can’t always offer. Summer camps give kids the freedom to explore, try new things, and discover abilities they didn’t know they had. 

Beyond fun and games, camps build confidence, teach social skills, and open doors to experiences that shape character and independence. Imagine your child returning home energized, proud of what they accomplished, and excited to share stories of new friendships, field trips, and achievements. 

Building Confidence Through Hands-On Experiences 

Confidence grows when children are encouraged to try new things and learn from mistakes. Summer camps provide countless opportunities for these moments, from team challenges to individual tasks. Each small achievement helps children trust their abilities and take on bigger challenges without fear. 

Even simple responsibilities at camp contribute to confidence. Tasks like preparing for an activity, leading a small project, or helping a group make decisions show kids they can handle responsibilities on their own. Many programs offer camp registration with structured activities that support independence and reinforce self-reliance. 

For families considering options, looking into summer camps near Raleigh can be helpful. Many programs in the area provide structured activities alongside time for outdoor exploration, allowing children to step out of their comfort zones safely. Kids learn to navigate challenges and celebrate small victories, making growth a natural part of their day. 

Strengthening Social Skills and Emotional Awareness 

Camp life immerses children in social interaction every day. They share recreational activities, collaborate on tasks, and experience different personalities. These interactions teach empathy, cooperation, and communication skills that are hard to develop in other settings. 

Social learning happens in everyday moments. Waiting turns in a game, encouraging a shy teammate, or resolving a disagreement helps children understand social dynamics. They also learn to express emotions clearly and manage feelings constructively. 

Counselors and activity leaders guide this development. By modeling patience and encouragement, they help children handle frustration and celebrate achievements. Programs often include specialty camps such as martial arts, robotics camp, or creative workshops to nurture a range of skills. 

Exploring Interests and Uncovering New Talents 

Summer camp introduces children to activities they may never try at home. From arts & crafts to sports, music, or art adventures, kids have a chance to discover new interests and talents. Trying unfamiliar activities helps them gain confidence and find joy in learning. 

Experimenting with different activities allows children to figure out what excites them. Some might try rock climbing, paddle boarding, or sessions at parkour gyms, helping them understand what they enjoy and what challenges them. Even if a hobby doesn’t continue after camp, the experience teaches adaptability and confidence in trying new things. 

Hands-on experiences also encourage problem-solving and creative thinking. Whether building a project, cooking a recipe, or tackling a group challenge, children learn to connect ideas and actions. Programs often mix physical recreations with creative opportunities like pop art classes or academic enrichment sessions to offer well-rounded growth. 

Encouraging Healthy Habits and Physical Activity 

Summer camps help children stay active and engaged. Daily movement, from swimming and hiking to outdoor play and games, keeps their bodies healthy and gives them energy. Physical play also teaches coordination, endurance, and teamwork. 

Being active has benefits beyond fitness. Kids notice improvements in mood, focus, and confidence when they accomplish something physically challenging. Climbing a wall, finishing a trail, or mastering a new skill shows them that effort leads to results. 

Nutrition and routines are part of camp life, too. Balanced meals, regular hydration, and consistent sleep reinforce healthy habits. Even small lessons, like choosing snacks or following schedules, help children understand how routines support well-being. 

Fostering Independence and Problem-Solving Skills 

Being away from home teaches children to rely on themselves. Decisions about how to spend free time, handling conflicts, and managing responsibilities help them develop practical problem-solving skills. 

Independence grows when children face situations they haven’t encountered before. Forgetting a hat, adjusting to a sudden change in plans, or learning a new skill encourages flexibility and resourcefulness. These experiences give kids confidence in handling challenges without constant guidance, helping them make the most of a great summer. 

The benefits extend beyond practical skills. Kids who practice independence at camp often approach schoolwork, friendships, and new experiences with more confidence. Learning to make choices and solve problems in a supportive setting gives them tools that last long after summer ends. 

Wrapping It Up 

Summer camp is more than a break from school. It’s a place where children grow, make friends, explore new activities, and learn to trust themselves. From building confidence and social skills to fostering independence and healthy habits, the experiences at camp leave a lasting impact. Choosing a camp that balances challenge, guidance, and fun gives children memories and skills that can enrich their lives well beyond the season. 

The post Why a Summer Camp Can Be a Game Changer for Kids  appeared first on GirlSpring.

! CRACK !

It was the second after midnight, and I had fallen asleep in my chair while the rest of the family counted down. I rubbed my eyes and coughed through the scent of copper and metals left in the firework smoke. The back of my chair was leaning against the outside of the house balanced on its hind legs. I rocked myself back upright and the front legs hit the ground with a small ‘Tak’ sound. I stood up and stretched as the scent of roasted foods filled my nose and dulled out the firework air. I made my way back into the house hobbling over the outstretched legs of fully reclined people staring at a TV or were in a head-sent-all-the-way-back sleep. I made it to my room and closed the door behind me. I hopped back into bed and buried my face into my pillow. A whistle sound echoed into the air. I looked up only for a moment as my room lit up in a red glow…

! CRACK !

In the blink of an eye, it was the second after midnight again. Everything was the same. Family and close friends hugged, food was on the grill, and all of the smoke from the fireworks descended from the sky in a haze while rockets were still being shot into the air. I was awake. I know I am awake…. Or at least halfway awake I think. Everything was truly the same as before but I still thought as if this moment was new. I stayed in that same chair and let my eyes focus on the sky. The stars and moon were smothered in clouds, natural and man-made. The haze drifted across the midnight sky in patches before drifting closer to the ground. The rapid-fire fireworks popped followed by the expensive rib rattling explosions with multiple colors that stretched across the sky. Everything was lit up and sparkling. When the moments went silent my eyelids slowly closed before being shocked open by a large– 

CRACK!

  And a

CRACK!

  And another

! CRACK !

The countdown reached zero and… still the same. My eyes shot open with a different thought in mind. I looked around for someone close to me. Maybe it was something I had to do? Something that I missed before? Everyone did the same thing. I don’t feel a difference here. I realize everyone’s been hugged except me. Everyone asleep inside might be going through the same thing. I realize that I stuffed myself into a corner where I could see and not be seen… to a degree. A chair leaned up against a wall isn’t the most hidden look. A familiar firework popped in the distance. I’m running low on time and I feel it. I send myself forward, chair legs and my own feet hit the floor. I lunge at the next person in front of me and I wrap my arms around them. My intent was half catching my fall and half getting the hug over with before I ran out of time. I almost knocked them over. Their shout turned into light sounding laughter as a firework shot into the air. They hugged me back tightly before I could see their face.

CRACK !

Once again, the countdown hit zero. The time seemed to be cut shorter and shorter. I was still stuck in this loop. Everything seemed to hit me all at once. At the top of my lungs I shouted 

“Happy New Year!” hands up in the air.  People were paused in between their kisses and hugs and the person in charge of the grill held in their hand. 

“Happy new year to you too!”

Someone raised their cup and laughed out loud. Everyone joined in cheering once again. One of the younger kids shouted at the people inside, their aunt following behind them to hush their antics. I looked up at the sky, and the fireworks went off after the stream of others.

CRACK !

I watched as the loose sparks fluttered outward and faded. I inhaled some of the same old copper air and sighed. Finally, a new moment.

The post Finally A New appeared first on GirlSpring.

Photo by Lorenzo Turroni on Unsplash

Are you a Christmas Pun Master?

Answer these questions that best fit the joke!

Have a Happy Holiday and a ho-ho-whole lot of laughter! 

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The post Quiz: Christmas Puns! appeared first on GirlSpring.

Phone cases: 

Holiday themed or even just a pattern you like! Phone cases are versatile when it comes to looks and are a great gift.

Perfume: 

Perfumes are the perfect touch when leaving the house and the perfect gift. Whatever your favorite scent, or scents, are, they would make an amazing addition to your Christmas wishlist this year.

Pimple patches: 

Not much explanation needed for this one, we all need them sometimes, and they can even just look like a sticker on your face that no one knows a blemish is hiding under.

Polaroid camera: 

I think polaroid cameras are the perfect gift, they can come in a variety of colors, they’re great to have just in case you want to take photos or if you want to document your 2025 Christmas! 

Stuffed animals: 

Look, I know some people claim to have grown out of the phase of unicorn plushies, but I will always love a tiny companion on my bed. What’s great about stuffed animals is that there are so many different brands and kinds that you can tailor it to the holidays, a favorite animal, or both at the same time!

Lip products: 

Whether it be lip liner, lip gloss, or lipstick, it’s always good to have a lippie or two on hand for touch-ups or reapplications.

The post Things to Add to Your 2025 Christmas Wishlist appeared first on GirlSpring.

Fall Season and October Trivia (Miscellaneous)

Test your random knowledge about Fall traditions, Fall related phenomenon, October's awareness and celebrations, and the most popular things in the Fall season! 

(image by Aaron Burden)

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The post Quiz: Fall Season and October Trivia appeared first on GirlSpring.

Go to a pumpkin patch.

The epitome of fall is picking pumpkins, wandering through corn mazes, and drinking apple cider at a local pumpkin patch. Bring a friend, partner, or your family along for a super fun, crisp afternoon!

Decorate your house.

Decorating is the perfect way to get into a festive mood, whether you are decorating for Halloween, Thanksgiving, or just the autumn season. Depending on your budget, you can either try to DIY some decor or make a trip to the shopping centers. Decorating is what sets the vibe for the rest of your holiday season.

Watch a movie.

Fall is the perfect season to set up an outdoor projector and binge your favorite fall films! Whether you are a horror fan or prefer a cozier alternative, enjoying a movie under the beautiful changing leaves is a fun way to spend an autumn evening. Need movie recommendations? Check out this article for ideas!

Visit a spooky attraction.

Halloween is my favorite part of the fall season. Haunted houses are perfect for groups who like the adrenaline rush and can handle the frights. If you are a bit of a scaredy cat, haunted trails may be a better option for you than a full-on haunted house, and they are great to go to with your family!

Carve pumpkins.

Of course, what would fall be without carving pumpkins?! Some love to make it a competition to see who can carve the best pumpkin, while others may prefer a chill craft night. Carving isn’t the only way to decorate your pumpkin patch pick—painting pumpkins is a super fun and less messy alternative!

Have a game night.

While game night is not a fall-exclusive activity, what better weather is there than a crisp autumn night to stay in, eat snacks, and enjoy a bit of friendly competition with your family and friends?

Try new seasonal recipes.

Fall brings a plethora of warm, cozy seasonal flavors, like pumpkin, apple, cinnamon, and other spices. Most importantly, it marks the beginning of soup and pie seasons. There are tons of new recipes on TikTok or Pinterest that incorporate these warm flavors into interesting dinner or dessert ideas. Trying recipes is an excellent activity because the cooking part is fun, and there is something yummy to eat when you’re finished.

Throw a Friendsgiving.

Fall is for family, friends, and spending time with those you love. Thanksgiving is soon, but friends can be just as important as family, so celebrate with your besties over a potluck of savory dishes and sweet treats. Show off your party planning skills with fall-themed games and crafts!

Watch a football game.

Sports fanatic or not, football is the game of the season. Hanging out with your friend, cheering on your team, and listening to the band while enjoying a concession stand snack is a perfect way to spend a Friday night. If you like the game, you can watch it on most sports networks nearly every day of the week.

Take a hike.

Cooler weather and beautiful leaves make for the perfect hike. A mountain hike is the ideal way to watch as the leaves change from deep greens to bright yellows, oranges, and reds. Birds migrate in early fall, so this is also the prime time for bird watching! Spend some time outdoors and enjoy the last days of fall weather before winter comes.

The post Fun Fall Activities appeared first on GirlSpring.

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1. Plan a Road Trip with Friends

There’s something undeniably thrilling about hitting the open road with your best friends. A road trip isn’t just about the destination—it’s about the journey and all the unexpected adventures that come along the way. Spend time together planning your route, picking out quirky roadside attractions, and creating the perfect playlist to sing along to. Whether you’re driving through scenic countryside or bustling cities, the road trip experience will strengthen your bond and provide countless stories to reminisce about.

2. A Weekend by the Lake or Sea

Few things are as refreshing and revitalizing as a weekend by the water. Whether you prefer the serene beauty of a lake or the endless horizon of the sea, spending a weekend at the shore offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. 

If your family owns a lake cabin, pack your bags and head there with your friends. Spend your days fishing and swimming. Bonus points for vacation cabins that come with a boat—and if there’s no boat yet, it’s still time to convince your parents to discover Premier Boating excellence for their next purchase; after all, what’s a weekend by the shore without a boat? 

3. A Grown-Up Weekend in a Big City

For a taste of independence and a glimpse into your future adult life, spend a grown-up weekend in a big city. Plan a trip to a nearby metropolis with your friends and immerse yourselves in the vibrant urban culture. Spend your days exploring museums, shopping at trendy boutiques, and sipping coffee at chic cafes. There’s a unique thrill in navigating public transportation, making reservations at fancy restaurants, and dressing up for a night out on the town.

4. Have a Fling by the Sea

Summer is synonymous with romance, and there’s nothing quite like a summer fling to make your heart race. Whether it’s a fleeting crush or a whirlwind romance, a summer fling by the sea is a classic experience. Spend your days on the beach, laughing and talking as you soak up the sun. Share ice cream cones, walk hand-in-hand along the shore, and watch fireworks light up the night sky.

5. Earn and Learn: Take a Summer Job

Why not combine making memories with earning a bit of cash? Taking a summer job, even if it’s just for a few days a week, can be a rewarding experience. Whether you’re working at a local cafe, restaurant, or retail store, you’ll gain valuable work experience, meet new people, and make some extra money to fund your summer adventures.

As you prepare for the exciting journey of college, make the most of your last summer with your high school friends. These five adventures will help you create unforgettable memories and experiences. Embrace every moment, cherish your friendships, and get ready to embark on the next chapter of your life with a heart full of wonderful summer memories.

The post 5 Essential Summer Adventures Before You Head to College appeared first on GirlSpring.