Archive for the ‘Holidays’ Category

How to Candy Nuts (EASY RECIPE)

Monday, February 26th, 2024
How to Candy Nuts

Learn how to candy nuts with this candied nuts recipe that incorporates sugar and spice. This yummy no bake treat is a perfect gift to give for the holidays.

Are you ready to impress with a holiday gift that’s as easy to make as it is delicious? Look no further than this sugar & spice candied nut mix!

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, this recipe will surely become a favorite for gift-giving or holiday snacking.

Making your own flavored nut mixes might not be something you have considered for the holidays, but once you try this delicious nut mix, you will have a difficult time giving these sugared and spiced holiday nut mixes away.

What Are Candied Nuts Made Of?

Candied nuts are made by coating raw nuts in a mixture of sugar, spices, and egg whites and then baking them until golden and crispy. 

This creates a sweet, crunchy treat perfect for snacking or gifting.

How to Candy Nuts

Kitchen Equipment Needed to Candy Nuts

Mixing bowls- For mixing the nuts and spice mixture.

Measuring cups and spoons- For measuring the spices and nuts.

Baking sheet- For baking the nuts in the oven.  I recommend the Nordic Ware Big Baking Sheet for your holiday baking projects.

Parchment paper or silicone baking mat- For lining the baking sheet.

Whisk- For whisking the egg whites and spices.

Wooden spoon- For stirring nuts.

Airtight containers or packaging materials- For storing or gifting candied nuts.

How to Candy Nuts

How to Candy Nuts

You can scroll down to see the complete ingredient list and step-by-step instructions.

Preparation: Preheat your oven and line a baking sheet.

Mix Spices: Whisk together sugar, water, egg white, and spices.

Coat Nuts: Toss raw nuts in the spice mixture until evenly coated.

Bake: Spread nuts on the baking sheet and bake, stirring occasionally.

Season: Sprinkle hot nuts with coarse salt for a perfect finish.

Cool and Package: Let the nuts cool, then package them for gifting or enjoying.

Before I share the recipe, here are some answers to commonly asked questions about how to candy nuts:

Where is The Best Place to Buy Nuts for Gifts?

If you have a membership to Costco or Sam’s Club, you can buy these ingredients in bulk to save on your cost per pound.

I also found this Reddit thread on where to buy the cheapest nuts and thought it had some incredible suggestions that I wouldn’t have thought of to reduce the price on buying nuts in bulk.

How to Candy Nuts

What Are the Best Nuts for a Holiday Nut Mix?

You can choose any combination of mixed nuts that you might love or just keep things simple and roast only your absolute favorite. I’m just using three of my favorites in this recipe- pecans, almonds, and walnuts.

My favorite varieties of nuts include candied pecans, almonds, and walnuts.

How to Candy Nuts

What Other Spice Combinations Can I Try With These Candy Nuts?

These nuts are tossed with some of my favorite holiday spices- cinnamon, nutmeg, ground cloves, and allspice. 

Feel free to try building your own spice combination. 

Add cardamom for a Middle Eastern twist or smoked paprika for a smoky flavor. 

Mix in ginger and cloves for a festive touch, or add a hint of cayenne for some heat. 

You can even experiment with Chinese five-spice or curry powder for more adventurous flavors.

How to Candy Nuts

How Long Do Candied Nuts Last?

Properly stored in an airtight container, these candied nuts can last up to two weeks, making them an ideal make-ahead gift for the holiday season.

How Do You Make Candied Nuts Not Sticky?

To prevent your candied nuts from becoming too sticky, spread them out in a single layer on the baking sheet and stir them every 15 minutes while baking. 

Also, sprinkling them with coarse salt while still hot can help absorb excess moisture and enhance the flavor.

How to Candy Nuts

How Do I Package Nuts for Gift-Giving?

This time of year, the craft stores are loaded with food packaging for your gifts. I love to check the seasonal aisles in my local craft stores.

Nut Tins in Bulk

The important thing is that they are airtight, especially if you are giving a large amount as a gift.

While these paper boxes make a cute display, but buying nut tins in bulk will help your nuts stay fresher longer.

Strawberry Pecan Salad

What Dishes Can I Enhance With These Candied Nuts?

Looking for more recipes to incorporate candy nuts? I’ve got you covered!

Sprinkle these candy nuts over salads like my strawberry pecan salad for added crunch and sweetness.

Honestly, any fruit and candied nut combo works well in a spinach salad.

You can use them as a topping for a thick smoothie bowl or slow cooker apple oatmeal (steel cut recipe).

These can also be incorporated into dark chocolate brownies with sea salt for a fun baking twist, or simply enjoy them alone as a satisfying treat any time. 

Add these over ice cream with caramel, toffee, or chocolates for topping for an indulgent treat. If you feel ambitious, this roasted plum ice cream with cinnamon would be another fantastic option.

What Other No Bake Christmas Treats Can I Make for the Holidays?

For other easy no-bake gifts, I recommend these gluten-free cake mix cookies, this easy microwave peanut brittle, or my peppermint cheesecakes in jars.

How to Candy Nuts
How to Candy Nuts

Candied Nuts

Yield: 6 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes

This easy nut mixture is created from spices in your pantry and is perfect for your holiday snacking or giving.

Ingredients

  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar (you can use white or brown sugar)
  • 3 tablespoons water
  • 1 egg white, lightly beaten
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1/4 teaspoon allspice
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  • Coarse salt for sprinkling
  • 2 cups pecans, halves
  • 2 cups whole almonds
  • 2 cups walnuts

Instructions

      1. Prep oven and baking sheet. Heat oven to 250°F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
      2. Add the beaten egg white, water, sugar, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, allspice, and nutmeg to a large mixing bowl and whisk until evenly combined.
      3. Add the pecans, almonds, and walnuts to the sugar mixture and gently toss until the nuts are evenly coated.
      4. Spread the nuts in a single layer on the baking sheet. Bake for about 45 minutes. Every 15 minutes, remove the nuts and stir them.  When the cooking time is done, the nuts should be fragrant, and the sugar coating cooked. 
      5. Transfer the baking sheet to a wire cooling rack and sprinkle liberally with coarse salt while still hot.
      6. Allow the nuts to come to room temperature. The sugar coating will continue to harden and dry once the nuts cool. 
      7. Once cooled, store the candy nuts in an airtight container for up to two weeks.

Notes

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to make these into sweet & spicy nuts.

Recommended Products

As an Amazon Associate and member of other affiliate programs, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Nutrition Information:
Yield: 6 Serving Size: 1
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 845Total Fat: 72gSaturated Fat: 6gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 62gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 337mgCarbohydrates: 45gFiber: 11gSugar: 30gProtein: 19g

TELL ME: What did you think of this candied nut recipe?

Recipe updated: February 26, 2024

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How to Paint Laminate Furniture Without Sanding

Tuesday, February 20th, 2024
How to Paint Laminate Furniture Without Sanding

Learn how to paint laminate furniture without sanding! Whether you plan to paint Ikea laminate furniture or a fireplace like us- you need this easy tutorial!

Laminate furniture often has a reputation for looking cheap. Let’s be honest- that faux grain finish does not fool anyone!

However, a simple paint job can completely transform and elevate any piece in your home in a single day, and I would love to show you how.  

How to Paint Laminate Furniture Without Sanding

Today’s painting tutorial is an excellent technique to try on new pieces.

Fresh paint can also cover up scratches, discoloration, and other imperfections on furniture you already own.  

Painting pieces to match can make a room feel cohesive. And as our decorating styles evolve, we can choose any color or finish to match where you are at NOW with your style.

What has surprised me about this process is just how easy it is.

How to Paint Laminate Furniture Without Sanding

For today’s tutorial, we will paint the electric fireplace that I featured in this guide- The Best Electric Fireplaces With Heaters

I’m excited to share with you how to make this laminate piece look more expensive than it is with a coat of paint- NO SANDING REQUIRED.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through the step-by-step process of painting laminate furniture without sanding, including the materials you’ll need and expert tips for achieving professional-looking results.

How to Paint Laminate Furniture Without Sanding

Here is a picture of our fireplace TEN YEARS after we painted it. There is no nick or chip in sight, so you are in wonderful hands today!

Understanding Laminate Furniture

Before diving into the painting process, it’s essential to understand what laminate furniture is and why it requires special preparation.

Laminate furniture is made of particleboard or MDF (medium-density fiberboard) covered with a thin layer of laminate. This synthetic material mimics the look of wood, stone, or other textures. 

This laminate layer can challenge paint adhesion, as it is smooth, non-porous, and moisture-resistant.

To paint laminate furniture without sanding, you will need a special primer, latex paint, and water-based acrylic to finish. You can scroll down to see the complete step-by-step instructions.

FAQs on Painting Laminate Furniture Without Sanding:

What is Zinnser primer?

Zinsser primer is a shellac based primer that acts as a versatile base primer for various surfaces, including laminate furniture.

This primer sticks effectively to surfaces without sanding, making it an ideal choice for prepping laminate furniture for painting. This is a top coat for your project, but you may need more than one coat depending on your furniture piece.

What kind of paint do you use on laminate furniture?

It’s essential to use really high-quality paint when painting furniture.

Latex paint is recommended for laminate surface painting projects because of its durability and smooth finish, and we have had the best success with the Benjamin Moore brand.

Many of our projects have stood up to over a decade of use without any need for retouching.

Can This Tutorial Be Used With Chalk Paint?

Yes, you can use chalk paint on laminate furniture, but I have yet to do this personally and can only provide instructions on what I’ve read elsewhere. You may not achieve the glossy results that I’ve shared today.

Follow the same steps I’ve outlined.

Once your primer is dry, you can paint your laminate furniture with chalk paint.

Keep in mind this paint will offer a matte finish.  

Be sure to add a protective topcoat to ensure durability, especially if the furniture will see regular use.

What Fireplace Paint Did You Use For This Project? 

This color is Benjamin Moore White Owl, the white paint we use in our home’s trim and furniture pieces. This piece from Architectural Digest showcases the versatility of the color and why it has become such a go-to white paint color choice! 

Do you have to sand laminate furniture before painting?

As we shared in this tutorial, using a product like Zinsser Primer eliminates the need to prime your laminate furniture. This bonding primer is designed for laminate furniture projects like this one and is a great option for Ikea furniture or painting laminate cabinets in your home. 

Can I Use Oil-Based Acrylic On Laminate Furniture?

We learned the hard way that using an oil-based acrylic finish on white furniture can lead to undesirable yellowing over time. 

Two dressers I had finished began to slowly turn yellow, a devastating DIY mistake that meant I had to repaint our pieces to restore the white color. 

Oil-based acrylic finishes contain ingredients prone to oxidation, a chemical process that can cause the paint to develop a yellowish hue when exposed to light and air. 

Additionally, oil-based acrylic finishes may take longer to cure and harden compared to water-based alternatives, leaving the furniture vulnerable to damage and staining during the curing process.

As a result, the finish may not provide adequate protection against everyday wear and tear, making the furniture more susceptible to scratches, stains, and other forms of damage.

I ALWAYS recommend a water-based acrylic finish or clear protective coating to prevent yellowing.

How to Paint Laminate Furniture Without Sanding: A Step-by-Step Guide

Materials Needed:

  1. Zinsser Primer
  2. Latex Paint 
  3. Water Based Polycrylic in Clear Satin (no substitutions- this product will not yellow your furniture)
  4. Drop Cloth
  5. Foam Roller
  6. Paint Brush

Instructions:

  1. Apply Zinsser Primer:
    • Clean the laminate surface thoroughly to remove any dirt or grease.
    • Apply a coat of Zinsser Primer to the surface using a paintbrush or foam roller.
    • Ensure even coverage and allow the primer to dry completely, usually within an hour or two of time.
  2. Apply Paint:
    • Once the primer is dry, apply your chosen paint color (see the suggestion below for my favorite white paint option)
    • Use a paintbrush or foam roller to apply the paint in thin, even coats.
    • One coat may be sufficient, but additional coats may be needed for full coverage or touch-ups.
  3. Finish with Polycrylic:
    • Once the paint is dry, apply two coats of Polycrylic in a Clear Satin finish, giving your piece a slick, smooth finish using a clean paintbrush or foam brush to apply evenly.  
    • Allow each coat of Polycrylic to dry for two hours before reapplying.
    • After applying the final coat, allow the piece to dry overnight before using or moving it.
How to Paint Laminate Furniture from MomAdvice.com
How to Paint Laminate Furniture from MomAdvice.com

How Do I Keep Laminate Furniture Clean?

While painted laminate furniture can be durable, it must be treated carefully to prevent chipping, scratching, or other damage. 

Avoid placing hot or heavy objects directly on the surface, and use coasters or protective pads as needed.

To clean painted laminate furniture, use a mild detergent, water solution, and a soft cloth or sponge. Avoid abrasive cleaners or scouring pads, which can damage the finish of your piece. 

I can’t wait to hear how your first project goes!

Paint Laminate Furniture Without Sanding Furniture Ideas

Here are a few examples of furniture pieces you could try as a great beginner project for painting laminate furniture. 

This post contains affiliate links.
How to Spray Paint Furniture

Love this tutorial don’t miss these other fun painting and staining projects:

How to Paint a Kitchen Table– Revitalize your kitchen table with a coat of paint. Discover easy steps to give your dining area a new lease on life.

How to Spray Paint Furniture– Upgrade your furniture with a professional finish using spray paint. Follow simple instructions to achieve a flawless makeover for any piece.”

Stain Picnic Table Tutorial– Enhance outdoor gatherings by staining your picnic table with this tutorial. Explore the process to protect your outdoor wood furniture so you can use it year after year. 

How to Stain Wood Furniture– Bring new life to your furniture by staining it. Follow these straightforward steps to add rich color and depth to your favorite pieces.

TELL ME: Did you have success with this painting project? What has been your experience painting laminate wood?

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17 Stunning Friendship Stories to Read Now

Monday, February 5th, 2024
13 Stunning Friendship Stories to Read Now

Celebrate Galentine’s Day with these friendship stories for adults! These books about friendship include fiction and nonfiction- perfect for any book club!

Looking for a friendship story for your next book club selection?

What could be a more perfect excuse than a fictional Galentine’s Day holiday that will give you an excuse to brunch AND discuss a great book about friendship.

Galentine's Day Books to Read

What is Galentine’s Day?

I think of Galentine’s Day as an official holiday, but its origin story might surprise you. This catchy holiday wasn’t created by Hallmark.

Instead, Galentine’s Day was created by the fictional Leslie Knope in an episode of Parks and Recreation.

Aptly titled the same name as the holiday (Season 2, Episode 16), Leslie gathers a group of her closest gal pals for brunch full of waffles and love. 

In this memorable scene, Amy Poehler delivers these lines, “Every February 13th, my lady friends and I leave our husbands and our boyfriends at home, and we just come and kick it, breakfast style,” she explains in the episode. “Ladies celebrating ladies.”

When is Galentine’s Day?

On February 13th, the day before Valentine’s Day, you can devote a day to celebrating your friendship with your best gal pals.

We encourage our readers to embrace a book club selection together and have gathered 9 friendship stories you’ll love to celebrate. 

That’s not all though, if you are looking for great movie or tv recommendations, we have you covered with today’s podcast with Mary Carver.

Mary  is a regular contributor on MomAdvice and the host of The Couch With Mary Carver. Her podcast celebrates TV, movies, music, and books all year-long.

Head here to read these show notes and get a list of fun ideas to celebrate this holiday with your favorite gal pals.

Listen to this episode in the embedded player or subscribe to the Book Gang wherever you get your podcasts.

Let’s celebrate this fictional holiday with the best books about friendship in fiction and nonfiction!

17 Stunning Friendship Stories to Read Now

These seventeen books celebrate female friendship stories are PERFECT for your next book club gathering.

HISTORICAL FICTION FRIENDSHIP STORIES

These friendship stories are the perfect book club books for historical fiction readers.

NONFICTION FRIENDSHIP STORIES

These nonfiction books about friendship are wonderful options for readers who want to dive deep into culivating friendships in their life.

BACKLIST FRIENDSHIP BOOKS

If you have been with your gal pals as long as I have, I wanted to offer some great backlist friendship stories that you might want to host a “reunion” book club.

These are four modern-day classics you might have read in your earlier years of friendship that could be revived for your next gathering.

What friendship stories would you add to this list?

Stunning Friendship Stories to Read Now

100 Unique Stocking Stuffers for Everyone On Your List

Tuesday, November 7th, 2023

This INCREDIBLE list of 100 stocking stuffers offer the perfect gift ideas for everyone on your list. We have included men, women, teens, tweens, and toddlers!

100 Unique Stuffing Stuffers for Everyone on Your List

Are you looking for the perfect small gift to tuck in your family member’s stocking? Today I’m sharing my Christmas stocking stuffers that everyone will love.

My family never did stockings, when I was growing up, and I was always so enchanted by the tradition at my boyfriend’s (now husband) house.

Each stocking was uniquely made and cut from felt with adorable details on each one. I loved watching them open their stocking and the fun things that their parents came up with to give to them.

In their house, they had scratch-off lottery tickets, car wash gift certificates, toll road gift cards, and their favorite candy.

As with ALL my holiday gift guides I want to give you a list of useful gifts to share with a loved one on Christmas morning.

100 Unique Stocking Stuffers For Everyone On Your List

We want to acknowledge that 2023 is expensive, and we have done our best to include families in ALL budgets for this year’s list.

If you are on a budget, I recommend that you sign up with Rakuten to do your shopping. We’re sharing some instructions below for ways to apply this to bigger ticket items in our list. This app gives you cash back on all your qualifying purchases.

If you want to read more about this shopping app, head here for an in-depth review of what Rakuten offers.

If you just want $40 and plan to get shopping, this should automatically deposit $40 in your account for your purchases (sorry- new customers only!).

And while the new stuff is fun, remember that experiences can also be an excellent stocking surprise that will only take up a little room in your home.

We have ideas for saving on theatre tickets and a fun Choose Your Own Adventure travel experience you can gift for the holidays.

However you shop, sharing this resource is a big help to our family!

You are supporting a woman-owned small business, and I’m SO GRATEFUL. Thank you for trusting me with this process for TWENTY YEARS.

100 Unique Stocking Stuffers for Everyone On Your List

The Best Stocking Stuffers

We have 100 ideas for the best stocking stuffers for men, women, kids, teens, and toddlers in this 2023 gift guide!

This year's list is divided into categories for easy shopping.

THE BEST STOCKING STUFFERS FOR MEN

Looking for the best stocking stuffers for the guy in your life? This list has you covered with lots of incredible budget-friendly options.

THE BEST STOCKING STUFFERS FOR WOMEN

The best stocking stuffers I recommend for the women in your life. These are some of my tried-and-true favorites that have been a hit with readers, too.

THE BEST STOCKING STUFFERS FOR TEEN GIRLS

You don't need to be a teen girl to love these stocking stuffer options, but Google likes us to have gender specific category titles for our gift guides. Why? We don't know!

THE BEST STOCKING STUFFERS FOR TEEN BOYS

You don't need to be a teen boy to love these stocking stuffer ideas, but Google likes us to have gender specific category titles for our gift guides. Why? We don't know!

BEST STOCKING STUFFERS FOR KIDS

The best stocking stuffer ideas for kids can be found in this fun gift list for the holidays.

THE BEST STOCKING STUFFERS FOR TODDLERS

Looking for the best stocking stuffer ideas for your favorite toddler? We have you covered in this fun list with age recommendations on these gift ideas.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
This post contains affiliate links from RewardStyle. Thank you for supporting our website through your purchases.
100 Unique Stocking Stuffers for Everyone On Your List

Advent Calendar for Teens That They Will Love

Monday, November 6th, 2023

An advent calendar for teens and tweens can make the holidays special. Shop this curated guide for fun ways to countdown to Christmas this year.

Advent Calendar for Teens They Will Love

One of my favorite gifts to give my teen is their advent calendar as a Christmas gift each year. This year, we wanted to offer this year’s best calendar ideas for your kiddos in this age category, as well as those college-age kiddos that deserve a fun way to celebrate the season.

We have you covered with a few of our favorite ways to countdown Christmas in 2023. 

To keep it economical, be sure to read our suggestions for ways to reuse keepsake boxes or diy advent calendars for the season with our smart ideas for saving.

DON’T FORGET TO ACTIVATE YOUR RAKUTEN WHEN SHOPPING. HERE IS $40 back on your first purchase.

If you aren’t familiar with the program, this is my beginner’s tutorial on how to use Rakuten (and some sneaky ways I get cashback on stuff we buy all the time).

Let’s celebrate the 12 days of Christmas with these fun ideas for the season.

Advent Calendar for Teens

Discover the perfect teen advent calendar for a memorable holiday countdown with these fun suggestions curated by the MomAdvice team.

As an Amazon Associate and member of other affiliate programs, I earn from qualifying purchases.

HOLIDAY ADVENT CALENDAR GAMES AND BUILDS

These advent calendar games and puzzles can be done independently or as a family experience.

ART ADVENT CALENDARS

These arts and crafts advent calendars are perfect for the budding artist in your life.

ADVENT CALENDARS FOR TEEN BOYS

You don't need to be a teen boy to love these ideas, but Google likes us to have gender specific category titles for our gift guides. Why? We don't know!

FOOD ADVENT CALENDARS

Unwrap a tasty surprise every day with this list of food advent calendars. From chocolates to gourmet treats, find the perfect December bite for the season.

ADVENT CALENDARS FOR TEEN GIRLS

You don't need to be a teen girl to love these ideas, but Google likes us to have gender specific category titles for our gift guides. Why? We don't know!

POCKET ADVENT CALENDAR & OTHER DIY ADVENT CALENDAR EXPERIENCES

These personalized calendars allow you to personalize it to your teen's interests.

Fill the pocket calendar with handwritten notes, a crafty calendar with homemade treats. These DIY advent calendars offer a unique way to make the holiday season more meaningful.

PET ADVENT CALENDAR

Have a teen that's crazy about their furry friends? A pet advent experience can be a lot of fun for teens to open!

Love this guide? Don’t miss these other holiday gift guides:

Best Gifts for Minimalists

The Best Gifts for Kids Who Have Everything

Retirement Gifts for Men They Will Love and Use

Unique Gifts for the Man Who Has Everything

Advent Calendars for Teens They Will Love

The Best Halloween TV Episodes to Stream Now

Thursday, September 21st, 2023

Discover the best Halloween TV episodes and where to stream them now. From heists to haunted houses, these Halloween shows deliver hilarious fun for viewers.

From our marriage & parenting contributor, Mary Carver.

When I was little, I started having nightmares. My mom eventually realized they were caused by something she’d allowed me to watch on television. The terrifying show? Scooby Doo.

I’m no longer scared by a silly cartoon, but I could only watch one season of Buffy the Vampire Slayer before I got too scared. 

I don’t see horror movies in the theater, I don’t read Stephen King novels, and when our local amusement park starts playing its “fright night” commercials every year, I lose my mind because HOW DARE THEY?

Suffice it to say, I’m not really here for the scary parts of Halloween. But the candy bars and costumes? 

Oh yeah, that’s my jam.

I love dressing up my kids and seeing other kids’ clever and cute costumes. Sometimes I even dress up with them.

And, obviously, I’m in it for the candy. And the pumpkins. And don’t forget It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown! (where to watch It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown full movie)

The Office Halloween episode

But luckily for scaredy cat couch potatoes like me, that’s not the only Halloween fun to be found on TV.

EDITOR’S NOTE: As the licensing deal with Netflix expired on your favorite sitcoms, we have updated this list on where to stream these shows in 2023 with a Halloween Cheat Sheet with season and episode names.

Browse today’s updated list of Halloween episodes and where to stream them.

The Best Halloween TV Episodes to Stream Now

Skip the scary movie, pop some popcorn, and join me on the couch for these sitcom Halloween episodes.

Join your favorite characters for costume mishaps, ghostly fun, and non-stop laughs. It's a scream-worthy season you won't want to miss!

EDITOR'S EDITIONS

The MomAdvice editors curated these additional Halloween sitcoms that you might be searching for.

 Tell Me: What Halloween sitcom episode do you watch every year? Are we missing anything on this list?

The Best Halloween TV Episodes to Stream Now
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How a Kindle Page Turner Remote Improved My Reading Life

Wednesday, September 20th, 2023

This remote control Kindle Page Turner is perfect for reading with hand pain. Learn how to use this gadget with your Kindle Paperwhite or the Kindle app.

How a Kindle Page Turner Remote Improved My Reading Life

I can count on one hand the number of times I’ve dedicated a post to a single product, but the Kindle Page Turner is the kind of gadget that deserves its own post. 

How a Kindle Page Turner Improved My Reading Life

Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome Hand Pain

This is your reminder that Instagram is an optical illusion- this is my Glamour shot with a chronic illness. This is not for sympathy, but it was important to offer a real user perspective for today’s post.

Longtime readers know I have Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, which affects my joints and causes chronic pain. An ongoing problem that has increasingly become harder to navigate is the joint pain in my fingers. 

I can no longer hold a book comfortably, so I’ve been troubleshooting my reading life with various gadgets to make reading easier.  

reading tools for hand pain

Many readers have asked that I share all of the tried-and-true items that have helped my reading life (scroll down for a full list).

As someone who would refer to herself as a “professional reader,” I have to read for longer periods of time than an average reader.

In addition to today’s post, I am hosting a Book Gang podcast on Literary Wellness with Chronic Pain with Alexandra Orfanide, Creator of The Hypermobility Helpline Podcast & Osteopath on November 10th to discover new ways to manage reading with chronic pain. I will update this list with her suggestions after we record.

For now, the Kindle Page Turner is new to my arsenal of tools but has singlehandedly made even my worst joint days manageable with reading.

This tool allows me to change the placement of my fingers on this remote based on which joint is experiencing the least amount of pain.

I wanted to explain how this gadget works for you today! 

Kindle Page Turner Remote

What is a Kindle Page Turner?

This remote control allows you to turn pages without touching the screen, making it a convenient option for those who require a hands-free approach to reading. 

The demonstration for this Booktok reading sensation is that it is usually paired with a reader cozied under a blanket, clicking the remote while lying in bed.

What I Love About the Kindle Remote:

This ergonomic remote stays charged with a USB charging cord, which lasts for a week on a single charge. 

The remote itself does not require charging, but the sensor that is clipped to your gadget is charged with the cord.

What impresses me the most about this tool is that the remote is unbelievably light, so light, in fact, that I’ve been known to walk around my house all evening with the remote still attached to my wrist.

As someone with wrist issues, this element alone made this gadget a winner. 

Kindle Remote

The biggest win for hand pain sufferers or people with carpal tunnel is using this in either hand and selecting which finger needs to do the page turning for that day. 

I will switch from the thumb to my trigger finger or other digits when I’m having a difficult day.

Page-turning is quick and pushing the large button doesn’t take too much finger strength.

Kindle Page Turner

What I DON’T Love About This Kindle Remote:

This device is imperfect in its design construction, and I want to share my minor grievances with it.

If you have hand pain, getting the wristlet threaded for the first time will require assistance.

The holder must be threaded through with a pin and requires a steady hand to achieve.

As someone who lacks fine motor skills, assembling it took me a long time. It surprises me that this element does not come pre-assembled for users.

The page-turner remote only moves forward, not backward, so you must swipe if you need to manually reverse direction.

The biggest hurdle is that the device placement takes a little getting used to. It will hide a word of text, typically wherever you place it. 

I use context clues to decipher.

Sometimes, I fill in my own words, especially if the book is terrible.

Kindle Page Turner

Quick Tips for this Kindle Page Turner Remote:

Keep in mind, if you have a case with a large lip, you may need to pop it off to use this ebook remote.

I use a slim origami Kindle case, so I haven’t encountered that issue with my current setup. 

It would be best to position this lower than where you would tap to access your Kindle menu. If you set this too high, it will go back to your Library, and you must confront how many books you have bought and still need to read.

Once you find the optimal placement, you are off to the races.

Kindle Remote Page Turner

How to Use a Kindle Remote Page Turner

Let’s walk through the process of pairing your Kindle Page Turner Remote for the first time.

Be sure to scroll down for more fun reading gadgets!

Step 1: Check Compatibility Before Purchasing a Kindle Page Turner

Before purchasing a Page Turner Remote, ensure it is compatible with your reading device.

While I use this, specifically for my Kindle Paperwhite, the remote control can also be used on an iPad, Android tablet, or Barnes and Noble Nook. 

If you use the Scribd app, Libby app, or Kindle app for reading with your wireless device, this device should be compatible once you have opened up your book for reading. 

Step 2: Pair the Remote with Your Kindle

Enable Bluetooth: On your Kindle device, go to “Settings” > “Bluetooth & Wireless.” Make sure Bluetooth is turned on.

Pairing the Kindle Page Turner

Put the Remote in Pairing Mode: Follow the instructions provided with your Kindle Page Turner Remote to put it in pairing mode. Typically, this involves holding down a button until a light indicator blinks.

Discover Devices: On your Kindle, tap “Pair a New Device.” Your Kindle will start searching for nearby Bluetooth devices.

Select the Remote: When your Kindle discovers the remote, select it from the list of available devices to pair them.

Confirm Pairing: If prompted, confirm the pairing on both your Kindle and the remote.

Here are some frequently asked questions about Kindle page-turning remotes: 

Does the Kindle Have an Auto Page Turner? 

Kindle devices primarily rely on manual page turning, either by tapping/swiping the touchscreen or using physical buttons if equipped with them.

That is why a remote can be a helpful device for people with hand pain. 

Book Gang Podcast

Do You Have Any Page-Turners for My Page-Turning Remote?

I host the Book Gang podcast that celebrates debuts, under-the-radar books, and backlist selections!  We host an author or literary hero to help co-host our shows. 

Each episode features a page-turner book list. That’s a beautiful place to start! 

The Best Prime Reading Guide 10 Free Kindle Books

Do You Have Resources for Free Kindle Books?

I am the queen of free Kindle books and how to get them. Be sure to check The Best Prime Reading Guide with Ten Free Books you can borrow if you have Prime. 

Don’t forget to take advantage of the Kindle First Reads program that allows Prime members to access and purchase new books a month before they are officially released to the public! 

You can check this landing page for monthly Kindle First Reads recommendations.

If you don’t have Prime, the library or my The Best Daily Kindle Deals list is a wonderful spot for readers on a budget. 

Below I am sharing my favorite reading tools for hand pain. Sending love and comfort to any reader who faces these kinds of challenges!

Reading Tools for Hand Pain

The Best Reading Tools for Chronic Pain

You can read more comfortably beyond the Kindle Page Turner! These are the items that help me the most with reading and chronic pain. As a professional reader with hand pain, I rely upon these items daily.

Some of the links below are affiliate links. This means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn an affiliate commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.

TELL ME: What reading tools help you with chronic pain? If you have tried any of the devices mentioned, I’d love to hear your experience with them.

The Best Gifts for Kids Who Have Everything

Tuesday, September 19th, 2023

Are you searching for the best gifts for kids who have everything? This unique gift guide offers ideas for gifts for older kids, toddlers, and preschoolers.

The Best Gifts for the Kids Who Have Everything

Welcome to our updated 2023 gift guide for the kids who seem to have everything.  Cue the confetti! 

You’re in the right place for great gifts that I don’t think you’ll find anywhere else. 

Our comprehensive gift guide has compiled a curated selection of unique and fun gift ideas for kids of all ages that are perfect for birthday gifts, special occasions, or just because. 

Whether you have teens, tweens, toddlers, or preschoolers, we’ve covered you with many exciting gift options.

So dive in and discover some of our favorite gifts for your kiddos that we also believe are fun for the whole family. 

The Best Gifts for the Kids Who Have Everything

Activate Your Rakuten App First

Just as a reminder, if you are on a budget, I DO recommend that you sign up with Rakuten to do your shopping. This service will give you cash back on all your qualifying purchases.

If you want to read more about this shopping app, head here for an in-depth review of what Rakuten offers.

If you want $40 and plan to get shopping, this should automatically deposit $40 in your account for purchases(sorry- new customers only!).

Here are my suggestions for this year!

Gifts For Kids Who Have Everything

GIFTS FOR KIDS WHO HAVE EVERYTHING UNDER $25

Browse these unique gift ideas for kids under $25.

GIFTS FOR KIDS WHO HAVE EVERYTHING UNDER $50

Browse these kid gifts under $50!

GIFTS FOR KIDS UNDER $100

Browse these kid gifts under $100.

GIFT IDEAS FOR TEENS & TWEENS UNDER $25

Browse these unique gifts for teens and tweens under $25

GIFT IDEAS FOR TEENS & TWEENS UNDER $50

50

Shop My Gift Guides

Don't miss these other great gift guides!

Unique Gift Ideas for Kids from MomAdvice.com
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Retirement Gifts for Men They Will Love and Use

Monday, September 11th, 2023

This gift guide features the best retirement gifts for men that they will love and use. These gifts for retired men include ideas for adventure, travel, and fun.

Retirement Gifts for Men

This oddly specific retirement gift list has been one of the most requested by our readers. 

I wanted to have a spot to point to friends and family, and hope you’ll enjoy these thoughtfully curated gifts. 

While many lists I’ve found are filled with clutter and gag gifts, these recommendations lean into style and are gifts that they will love and use over the years. 

So, join me in honoring this milestone and finding the perfect way to say, “Congratulations on your well-deserved retirement!

Retirement Gifts for Men

Whether they're looking forward to more time on the golf course, cozy evenings with a good book, or grand adventures in far-off lands, these thoughtful retirement gifts are designed to make their retirement unforgettable.

OUTDOOR GIFT IDEAS FOR MEN

Explore the ultimate outdoor gift ideas list for backyard adventures at home or out on the golf course.

TRAVEL GIFT IDEAS FOR HIM

Explore travel gift ideas for him to make those future travel days more enjoyable.

COZY GIFT IDEAS FOR HIM

Find the perfect cozy gift ideas for him that will bring warmth and comfort for those lovely days at home.

RETIREMENT GIFTS FOR COWORKERS

Show your appreciation for retiring coworkers with thoughtful retirement gifts that celebrate their years of hard work and wish them well in their new journey.

Whether it's a personalized keepsake or a gift that aligns with their post-retirement plans, discover a range of ideas to bid them a fond farewell.

Shop My Gift Guides

Don't miss these other great gift guides!

Cranberry Sauce With Orange Juice (So Easy)

Sunday, August 20th, 2023

Learn how to make classic cranberry sauce with orange juice and brandy. This make ahead recipe includes freezer instructions and leftover cranberry sauce ideas.

Cranberry Sauce With Orange Juice

This tried-and-true recipe is the most requested Thanksgiving recipe.

The tartness of cranberries pairs well with the natural sweetness of oranges for a winning combination for your Thanksgiving or Christmas meal.

Cranberry Sauce With Orange Juice (easy how to guide)

Is Cranberry Jelly the Same as Cranberry Sauce?

Cranberry sauce and cranberry jelly differ in texture, ingredients, and usage.

Cranberry sauce features a chunky consistency with whole or crushed cranberries, often combined with other ingredients like sugar and spices.

On the other hand, cranberry jelly has a smooth, gelatinous texture achieved by using strained cranberry juice or puree, often mixed with sugar and pectin.

Both canned cranberry sauce and cranberry jelly are available at your local grocery store, but the flavors of homemade cranberry sauce are worth the effort, especially when you can add your own flavor combos

Cranberries


Cranberry Sauce Tips and Tricks

When a recipe instructs you to cook cranberries until they “pop,” you should continue cooking them until they burst open. Fresh cranberries have tough outer skin; as they heat up, the moisture inside them turns into steam, causing them to expand and burst. 

This bursting is often accompanied by a distinct “popping” sound.

Cooking cranberries until they pop creates a smooth and well-textured sauce, as the burst cranberries release their juices, flavors, and natural pectin, which helps thicken the sauce. 

The process of popping and releasing their juices transforms the firm cranberries into the soft, saucy consistency that we associate with cranberry sauce.

What is a Microplane?

What is a microplane?

A microplane is a kitchen tool with a razor-sharp, fine-grated blade designed for effortless zesting and grating. 

We will use this tool for the orange zest in this recipe. The zest adds a fragrant aroma, while the juice provides a tangy sweetness that complements the cranberries.

A microplane is commonly used to extract the colorful and flavorful outer peel (zest) of citrus fruits like oranges and lemons.

You an also use this tool to finely grate ingredients like cheese, ginger, or nutmeg.

To zest an orange, take your microplane or fine grater and gently scrape the outermost layer of the orange peel.

Be cautious not to include the bitter white pith underneath, as the vibrant outer layer contains the aromatic oils and flavor you want.

Cranberry Sauce With Orange Juice

How to Make Cranberry Sauce

Scroll down to see the complete ingredient list and step-by-step instructions.

Wash Your Cranberries: Give the fresh cranberries a good rinse under cold water. This cleans them up and makes them ready for cooking.

Zest & Juice Your Oranges: Extract both the zest and juice from your oranges.

Combine Orange Zest With Water: Cook for fifteen minutes, reducing the liquid. 

Simmer and Stir:  To the cooked liquid add cranberries, sugar, cinnamon, orangie juice, and lemon juice. Let the cranberries simmer in the pot for about 10-15 minutes. You’ll see the cranberries start to soften and hear them pop.

Add Flavor: Remove the sauce from the heat and stir back in the zest and brandy into the cooked cranberries.

Cool Down and Store:  When the sauce is completely cool, you can serve it in a bowl. You can keep it in the fridge if you’re not using it immediately.

This is a brief overview of my recipe. For comprehensive instructions, refer to the recipe card located at the bottom of this post.

Cranberry Sauce With Orange Juice

Here are some of our most frequently asked questions for this recipe:

Is Cranberry Sauce Served Warm or Cold?

Cranberry sauce is typically served cold.

After it’s cooked and has thickened, allow it to cool down to room temperature and then chill in the refrigerator.

This chilled cranberry sauce is then served as a condiment alongside various dishes, especially during holiday meals like Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Is it Necessary to Add Brandy?

Adding brandy is optional, but it does enhance the depth of flavor. It adds subtle warmth and complexity to the sauce. If you prefer not to use alcohol, the sauce will still be delicious without it.

Can I Make This Sauce Ahead of Time?

Cranberry sauce is the perfect make-ahead recipe. 

This cranberry sauce recipe is better if you can prepare it beforehand. It allows the flavors of this sauce to meld even more. 

After cooking, cool the sauce completely, then refrigerate it in an airtight container.

It will keep well for about a week.

Can You Freeze Cranberry Sauce?

Homemade cranberry sauce freezes well.

Allow it to cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container.

You can freeze it for up to three months.

Thaw the sauce in the refrigerator or by placing the container in a bowl of cold water.

Can Dogs Eat Cranberry Sauce?

Fresh cranberries can be a healthy dog treat in small, stem-free, and plain portions. Cranberries are safe, unlike grapes and raisins, which are toxic to dogs.  

As for cranberry sauce, it’s not toxic but should be given sparingly due to its sugar content, especially for dogs with diabetes or sugar sensitivity. 

Talk to your veterinarian about your pet’s specific diet needs and what they recommend. 

Cranberry Maple Syrup Sauce- What to Do With Leftover Cranberry Sauce

What to Do With Leftover Cranberry Sauce?

Cranberry sauce is the perfect topping on leftover turkey sandwiches.

My favorite leftover cranberry sauce recipe is this 2-ingredient cranberry maple syrup sauce. This is perfect for topping pumpkin spice pancakes or ice cream. 

Cranberry Sauce With Orange Juice (easy how to guide)

Cranberry Sauce With Orange Juice

Yield: 8 servings
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour

This fresh cranberry sauce is the perfect Thanksgiving side dish. Cranberries, orange, and brandy make the perfect flavor combination for this homemade sauce.

Ingredients

  • 1/3 cup orange zest (approximately the zest from four oranges)
  • 2 cups water
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 2/3 cup freshly squeezed orange juice (approximately from four oranges)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 3 cups cranberries
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 tablespoon brandy

Instructions

    1. In a small pan over medium heat, combine orange zest and water.

    2. Cover and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes.

    3. After simmering, strain the mixture, reserving the zest and about 1/3 cup of the liquid.

    4. Return the reserved liquid to the saucepan.

    5. To the cooked liquid, add sugar, ground cinnamon, freshly squeezed orange juice, and lemon juice.

    6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer uncovered for about 3 minutes, stirring often.

    7. Add cranberries to the saucepan.

    8. Increase the heat to medium-high and boil for around 30 minutes until the cranberries pop, and the sauce slightly thickens. The sauce will continue to thicken as it cools completely.

    9. Remove from heat, and stir in the brandy.

Nutrition Information:
Yield: 8 Serving Size: 1
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 229Total Fat: 0gSaturated Fat: 0gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 0gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 4mgCarbohydrates: 58gFiber: 2gSugar: 53gProtein: 0g

The calorie and nutrition information provided with our recipes is intended to be an estimate based on commonly used ingredients and serving sizes. However, individual nutritional needs may vary, and the actual values can depend on factors such as specific brands of ingredients, preparation methods, and portion sizes. Please use these figures as estimates.

Looking for more great dishes to make ahead? Check out these other ideas from MomAdvice.com.

Gluten-Free Green Bean Casserole

Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Recipes

Gluten-Free Green Bean Casserole
Make-Ahead Mashed Potatoes
Gluten-Free Stuffing Recipe
Make-Ahead Gravy Recipe

Can You Freeze Cranberry Sauce?
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