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!

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In case you don’t know your Zodiac sign, here is a list. There are 12 Zodiac signs, each based on your birthday.

Aquarius- January 20 to February 18

Pisces- February 19 to March 20

Aries- March 21 to April 19

Taurus- April 20 to May 20

Gemini- May 21 to June 20

Cancer- June 21 to July 22

Leo- July 23 to August 22

Virgo- August 23 to September 22

Libra- September 23 to October 22

Scorpio- October 23 to November 21

Sagittarius- November 22 to December 21

Capricorn- December 22 to January 19

Here is what I think your Halloween costume should be based on your Zodiac Sign!

Aquarius- Rainbow Fish from Rainbow Fish

Pisces- Cherub

Aries- Snoopy from “Charlie Brown”

Taurus- Mavis from “Hotel Transylvania”

Gemini- Subway Surfer

Cancer- Mermaid

Leo- Draculara from “Monster High”

Virgo- Glinda from “Wicked”

Libra- Astrid from “How to Train Your Dragon”

Scorpio- Pirouette Clown

Sagittarius- Butterfly

Capricorn- A Minion

Hopefully, this list kickstarts your costume planning; some can even be a part of a group costume. Have a happy Halloween!

Oh, and if you’re staying in this year, check out this list of Halloween movies to watch!

Shop interesting costumes here!

The post What Your Halloween Costume Should be Based on Your Zodiac Sign 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.

While Valentine’s Day might be a positive event today, the bloody origins and dark backstory haunt the holiday from centuries long ago.

Wait, there’s more than one Saint Valentine?

While Valentine seems unique, he is not. In fact, multiple Valentines are thought of as the possible origin of Saint Valentine’s Day.

One Saint Valentine lost his head – literally – after displeasing the Ancient Roman Emperor, Gothicus. While in custody of Asterius, a trusted aristocrat within Rome, Valentine succeeded in a bargain with him. If Valentine, a Christian, could cure Asterius’s foster-daughter’s lack of sight, Asterius would convert to Christianity. Valentine was able to cure the girl, and his actions were praised by the family. However, the family soon saw the same fate as Valentine.

An Italian Saint Valentine is often mistaken as the Roman Valentine. This is because the two men died in similar ways.

Another common tale of Saint Valentine originates in the 3rd century A.D. under Claudius II. Because Claudius had ambitions of expanding the empire, he also had the problem of lovesick soldiers longing for their wives. To combat this, he banned marriage altogether.

The ban on marriage led to Saint Valentine, a Roman priest, who would secretly marry couples. When Claudius II learned of his crimes, Valentine was sentenced to death. Young couples wed by Valentine would pass letters and flowers through the bars of his cell.

Rumor also states Valentine fell in love with his jailer’s daughter. Supposedly, on the day of his death, he passed a note to her saying “from your Valentine” thus starting a timeless tradition.

Anything for Love

Many think the celebration of mid-February originates with the Roman feast of Lupercalia. Lupercalia is an annual celebration in ancient Rome dedicated to the she-wolf who nursed Romulus and Remus. The feast was to bring fertility to the women of Rome. However, this fertility came with a disgusting and painful process.

After the sacrifice of a goat and a dog, the hide of the animals were made into narrow strips of leather. Men would arm themselves with the strips then try to strike the women. Women who were hit would then be fertile. Additionally, there was a matchmaking lottery intended to match young women and men for the duration of the holiday. If this match was true, it could prosper even after the festival.

Roses are red, violets are blue

You may be wondering how we went from dog hide to cupid and chocolates on this famous holiday. Well, you have Geoffrey Chaucer to thank for this development. In “Parlement of Foules,” he writes about the mating of birds, establishing Saint Valentine’s feast as a day for birds to mate and produce eggs. He writes,

“For this was on seynt Volantynys day. When euery bryd comyth there to chese his make.”

As this movement prospered, the inspiration struck the writings of Shakespeare in Hamlet. 

Heart Emojis, Snapchat Filters, and Chocolates Galore

As the holiday exponentially grew in popularity, the New World embraced it like never before. The Industrial Revolution led to commercialism and manufacturing. The mass marketing has continued to this day, as there is an average of $2 billion spent on flowers alone each Valentine’s Day. Many companies use Saint Valentine’s Day to profit since it is one of the most expensive holidays. From Hallmark cards to candy hearts there is a lot of revenue stemming from the holiday.

My Take

I believe Valentine’s Day can be a wonderful holiday if you spend it with the right people. If you don’t have a significant other, celebrate Galentine’s Day on February 11. Galentine’s Day originates from the NBC comedy Parks and Recreation. Also don’t feel pressure to make it a big deal if you don’t want!

The whole of point of Valentine’s Day is to appreciate the love you have around you, not to force it. For instance, I am going to have my first Valentine’s Day with my first boyfriend this year, and we will be spending it at a Model UN conference.

Essentially, treat Valentine’s Day like any other day, with more love.

So, however you celebrate your Valentine’s Day, remember that your love life will never be as ambiguous as the holiday’s origins!

For more about Valentine’s Day, check out Romantic Movies for Valentine’s Day and Why it’s Okay Not to have a Date this Valentine’s Day.

The post Saint Valentine’s Day – History of Ancient Love appeared first on GirlSpring.

As love fills the air and Valentine’s Day approaches, you may be on the search for a romantic film.

Here are five perfect romance movies to watch on this happy holiday

The Fault in our Stars

This heart-wrenching movie is about a 16 year old girl, Hazel Grace Lancaster. Hazel is battling lung cancer all her life. She meets a fellow cancer patient, Augustus Waters, with just as huge a sense of strength as herself, and they become star-crossed lovers.

Love, Rosie

In this romantic comedy, two best friends, Rosie and Alex, realize they may see each other as something more. They always dreamed of moving to America together. However, they face a long journey in making their ways back to each other. If you are looking for a movie about the right person at the wrong time, Love, Rosie is the one.

After

Talk about a connection! Tessa Young has grown up studious and driven but begins to find there is much more to life than what she has been living. Her world is turned upside down when she meets Hardin Scott, the stereotypical bad boy, and she is able to see life in a fresh perspective.

The Notebook

Noah Calhoun and Allie spend a dreamy, romantic summer. Unfortunately, all summers must come to an end, and Allie returns to her wealthy family. The lovers separate for years and this movie portrays their beautiful journey back to each other. True love always finds a way!

The Choice

Travis Shaw was always the player type, but when his new neighbor, Gabby Holland, moves in he sets his sights on a future with her. It is a hard fight to win her over, for she is newly engaged, but as they grow together, their story shows the true power of love.

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So, you’re walking into an airport for the first time, alone, and thinking, “What the heck am I supposed to do?” Don’t worry—I’ve got you. This guide will walk you through every single step, from packing your bag to picking up your luggage at your destination. Remember, knowing how to get through an airport is a basic life skill! Even if you’re not travelling soon, get yourself familiar with these steps! 

Before You Even Leave for the Airport

Here’s what you will need to bring with you:

• Your ID or Passport:
  • If you’re flying within the country, you’ll need a government-issued ID (like a driver’s license or state ID).
  • If you’re flying internationally, you’ll need your passport. Make sure it’s not expired! 
• Boarding Pass:
  • You can print this at home or keep it on your phone. (Tip: Screenshot it so you don’t have to worry about internet issues.)
• Luggage:
  • Carry-on bag: A backpack or small suitcase you’ll keep with you on the plane. Pack essentials like snacks, a water bottle (empty until after security), headphones, a phone charger, and a book or tablet.
  • Checked bag: A bigger suitcase for stuff you won’t need during the flight. You’ll drop this off at the airline counter when you get to the airport.

Step 1: Arrive at the Airport

Get there early—2 hours before a domestic flight, 3 hours for international. Airports can be busy, and you’ll need time to figure things out.

Walk Inside and Find Your Airline’s Check-In Counter

• • Look for big signs with airline names (like Delta, American Airlines, or Southwest).
  • Not sure which counter is yours? Check your confirmation email or boarding pass to see who you’re flying with.

Step 2: Check In for Your Flight

At the check-in counter or kiosk:

1. Provide Your Info:
   • Enter your confirmation code (found in your booking email) or scan your passport!
2. Print Your Boarding Pass!
   • This tells you your gate number, boarding time, and seat.
3. Drop Off Checked Bags:
   • Put your suitcase on the scale. The airline staff will tag it and send it to the plane.
   • Tip: Make sure your suitcase isn’t over 50 lbs, or you’ll have to pay extra!

Step 3: Go to Security (TSA Checkpoint)

Look for signs that say “Security Checkpoint” or “TSA.” 

1. Show Your ID and Boarding Pass:
   • The TSA officer will check these and wave you through to the screening area.
2. Prep for the X-Ray Scanner:
   • Take off your shoes, belt, and jacket.
   • Put your electronics (like laptops or tablets) in a separate bin. Make sure you’re keeping perfect visual track of where you put your belongings. Follow them with your eyes! 
   • Liquids must be in travel-sized bottles (3.4 oz or less) and packed in a clear, quart-sized bag.
   • Place everything, including your carry-on bag, in bins provided. 
3. Walk Through the Scanner:
   • Then, you’ll be asked to walk through a metal detector. Follow the TSA agent’s instructions.

Step 4: Find Your Gate

Now that you’re through security, it’s time to find your gate! You’re almost there!

1. Look at Your Boarding Pass:
   • It’ll have your gate number (e.g. Gate B12).
2. Check the Screens:
   • Look for your flight number on the big screens to confirm your gate hasn’t changed.
3. Follow the Signs:
   • Airports have signs everywhere pointing to gates. Follow them to the right terminal.

Step 5: Wait at Your Gate

Once you find your gate, sit close so you don’t miss any announcements. While you wait, you can double-check the boarding time on your pass or grab a snack or drink nearby if you have time.

Step 6: Boarding the Plane

When it’s time to board, the airline staff will announce groups or zones (printed on your pass). Follow these steps:

1. Line up when your group is called.
2. Show your boarding pass and ID to the gate agent.
3. Walk down the jet bridge and onto the plane.
4. Find your seat number (it’s on your ticket) and stow your carry-on in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you.

Step 7: Picking Up Your Bag

At your final destination–

1. Follow signs to “Baggage Claim.”
2. Look for your flight number on the carousel screens.
3. Grab your bag and double-check the tag to make sure it’s yours.

General Airport Safety Tips

1. Stay Alert: Keep your belongings close and never leave your bags unattended. Don’t carry too much, or you might feel overwhelmed and as a result less alert. 
2. Ask for Help: Never be afraid to ask airport staff if you feel confused. They are there to help you! 
3. Trust Your Gut: If someone makes you feel uncomfortable, walk away and try to find an airport official. As a general rule, stay within a crowd and don’t look down at your phone for long. 
4. Emergency Contact Info: Keep your phone charged and a list of emergency contacts handy!

And that’s it! With this guide, you’re ready to tackle any airport! Good luck, and happy flying!

The post How the Heck Do I Get Through an Airport? appeared first on GirlSpring.

New Year Resolutions

The New Year is a time for reflection and improvement upon ourselves! Whether you want to focus on your physical or mental health, academics, or family this year, this list has you covered. These New Year resolutions are easy to implement so you can spark meaningful change in your life without much effort!

Health Journey

– Exercise
– Weight Loss
– Practice mindful eating
– Cook new goods

Mental Health

– Start journaling
– Gratitude journal
– Get Quality Sleep/Reset your sleep schedule
– Set specific career goals
– Read more books
– Create a budget you can stick to
– Deprioritize friendships that are not worth your time

School

– Find the study strategy that works best for you
– Improve your time management
– Don’t procrastinate
– Organize your papers
– Study a new topic that interests you
– Keep subjects separate from each other
– Figure out how to study without stressing yourself out!
– Make more genuine friends

Family

– Games without electronics
– Learn something new together
– Watch a movie together
– Take trips!

New Year resolutions: A final note

These New Year resolutions are sure to kick start an incredible year through living intentionally and working toward your goals. For more, check out this article on maintaining your New Year’s Resolution. Happy New Year! 

The post New Year Resolutions to Help You Thrive in 2025 appeared first on GirlSpring.

Looking for some Christmas gift ideas this holiday season? Well, good thing you found this article! Below you will find some great gift ideas for all ages! 

Toddlers

• Building Blocks
• Clothes
• Water Toys
• Musical Instruments
• Puzzles
• Playdough
• Stuffed Animals

Pre-teen Boys

• Headphones 
• Gaming Set
• Ipad
• Video Games
• Books
• Clothes
• Concert Tickets
• Sports Tickets 

Pre-teen Girls

• Computer
• Phone
• Ipad
• Lip Gloss
• Art Supplies
• Concert Tickets
• Gift Cards

Teen Boys 

• Portable Speaker
• LED Lights
• Drone
• Skateboard
• Sports Gear
• Books
• Hoodies
• Sneakers

Teen girls 

• Jewelery 
• Hoodies 
• Sweaters
• Makeup Kit
• Skincare Sets
• Hairstyling tools
• Perfume
• Fairy Lights
• Art Supplies
• Books

Adult Men

• Streaming Devices
• Headset
• Fitness Equipment 
• Grilling Tools
• Wallets
• Sweaters
• Shoes
• Books
• Collector’s Items 
• Cologne

Adult Women

• Perfume
• Handbags
• Watches
• Athleisure Wear
• Digital Camera
• Spa Day Package
• Concert Tickets
• Tote Bags 
• Shoes
• Sunglasses

There’s something for everyone on your list! These Christmas gift ideas are sure to bring joy to all your loved ones this year!

Check out more great holiday content here!

The post Easy Christmas Gift Ideas for Everyone appeared first on GirlSpring.

Wreath

1. Draw a dark green circle. Make it thick, but it doesn’t have to be perfect.
2. Draw lighter green pine needles pointing in 1 direction around the circle
3. Add lighter and darker pine needles for a fuller wreath.
4. Color in accessories like pinecones, berries, and a ribbon
5. Shade the accessories with lighter and darker hues. Add a festive message on the ribbon or around the wreath.

Now, I just realized that my tutorial looks like the Olympic Rings. Wreaths are popular and versatile decorations year round, so you can use this technique to make cards for many different occasions.

Snowman

1. Draw 2 or 3 big, white-ish circles. The color doesn’t have to be perfectly white, it can be grey, bluish, or pinkish. The circle on top is smaller. It can sit on a mound of snow.
2. Shade the circles. Where is the light coming from? In general, the bottom of the circles is darker than the top. Use different shades of the same hue and a gentle circular motion to shade.
3. Color in the snowman’s features and outfit. Think beyond the traditional snowman and go all out with the fashion! Mine is going skiing.
4. Shade and add texture to the snowman’s outfit. Short strokes achieve a nice, knitted effect. Blurring in strokes works for fur.

Christmas Tree

1. Draw a dark green triangle for the base of the tree.
2. Draw pine branches in layers. Use a lighter green and decrease the thickness and you go up.
3. Shade where the layer gets overlapped and highlight where the layer sticks out.
4. Color in ornaments and tree decorations. Shade the ornaments with different textures. Use small dots for a sparkles and shades of the same hue for a shiny, metallic finish.

Winter Landscape

If you’re feeling ambitious, you can tackle a winter landscape. You can start out very simple with the sky and snow and work your way up to the mountain-scape or the ski resort of your dreams.

James Julier (James Julier Art Tutorials on YouTube) helped me get into landscape drawing and his tutorials are very thorough. I was able to independently draw landscapes after watching a few of his videos.

I hope you liked these holiday card ideas. Happy drawing!

The post Holiday Card Ideas that are Easy and Fun appeared first on GirlSpring.