Right now, going to a restaurant for a break isn’t exactly an option in many states. In states that have reopened, it still isn’t possible for restaurants to fully pack the house as they may have before. Unfortunately, ordering takeout can really hit your bank account hard. Between grabbing something everyone will like and ensuring everyone gets enough, you could end up spending $50 to $100 every time you order food and have it delivered. Luckily, there are some restaurants going the extra mile during these hard times by providing customers with a family pack of food. This provides you with everything you need to feed a family of four for less than it would cost to feed two adults at a restaurant, in most cases. So, if you need a break from cooking, don’t worry. These restaurants are ready to help you out.

1. Denny’s
Diner food can be a real comfort to many people, which is why Denny’s has been one of the country’s most popular restaurants for decades now. With the restaurant open every hour of every day of the year, we’ve come to rely on it when we’re in need. It isn’t hesitating to help out now either. The restaurant has many family deals for you to take on. One of the most popular deals in the family size grand slam which gives you everything the dish offers for the whole family. Since Denny’s portions are pretty big to begin with, your family won’t feel hungry after this. They are also offering hamburger specials and a special that mixes burgers and breakfast items, so you can get a little something for everyone. All of these specials are under $30, with the exception of the Lumber Jack Special which rings in at $32. You will find dessert packs, beverage packs, and packs of side dishes for cheap, too. There are even grocery items on offer. The website is working with companies to offer free delivery too, or you can do curbside pickup.

2. Taco Bell
If you’ve been missing out on Taco Tuesday, or taco any day of the week for that matter, then Taco Bell has you covered. You can purchase their taco pack which provides you with everything you need to build your own tacos. This pack is said to feed six, so there’s plenty for everyone and it will only set you back $25. If you still want more, they do offer bulk deals, like their party nacho box or their party boxes which feature tacos and burritos. Taco Bell is known for low prices, so you won’t spend too much no matter which route you choose to go. Taco Bell offers free delivery and curbside pickup now, but their drive-thrus are still open if you prefer to keep it old fashioned.

3. Panera Bread
When it comes to comfort food on a rainy day, Panera Bread will have you covered. This restaurant offers a family pack for just $30. This pack offers half a sandwich and soup or mac n cheese for four. They even have kids’ options on the pack, so you can customize to make sure everyone is happy. Of course, you can still order the website’s family pack of soup too, which comes with bread. Their bagel packs are an easy breakfast for the whole family, as well. You’ll even be able to purchase grocery items from the restaurant. Currently, you can have Panera Bread delivered in some areas, but you can also pick it up from the restaurant, too.

4. Cracker Barrel
Home cooking can be a great comfort in times like these, which is why Cracker Barrel has some great options for you to choose from. The restaurant has some of its top-selling dishes available, which will make everyone feel like they’re visiting grandma’s even though they can’t. Some of the options you can choose from are chicken and dumplings or meatloaf. You can also find options like chicken tenders and fish. Each of these meals comes with two sides, which will complete the dinner to grandma’s standards. There is also a breakfast option for those hoping to enjoy some of the restaurant’s most popular treats. Cracker Barrel is offering contactless pickup, as well as delivery.

5. Panda Express
If your Chinese food craving is getting the best of you then you might want to check out the deal Panda Express has for you. Right now, when you order from the app, you can get a family meal for just $20. With this deal, you’ll get three large entrees as well as two sides, which will keep everyone happy. However, right now, Panda Express is offering a limited menu. So, there is a good chance that some of your favorite items might not be available. They are still offering their more popular dishes like orange chicken and broccoli beef.

6. Burger King
As soon as self-isolation orders began, Burger King really stepped up its game. The company started to order family deals that only set people back a mere $12.99. This deal includes 6 sandwiches and 3 fries, which is enough to feed quite a few people. As the self-isolation period went on, the restaurant decided to add more options to the mix. Now, there are bundles with chicken sandwiches, burgers, nuggets, and fries that will only set you back $20 or $25, depending on your choice of the bundle. If you’re craving fast food, then this is one of the most frugal options you can go for. Plus, the restaurant offers free delivery or you can pick it up from their drive-thru.

7. KFC
KFC has always been about the bundles when it comes to family meals. Right now, they’re offering a $30 deal that features your choice of either piece of chicken or twelve tenders. With this meal, you’ll also receive four biscuits and three of their large sides. Of course, they do have other family bundles you can enjoy too. If no one can agree then the $5 fill-up boxes won’t set you back too much either. These feature an entrée, side, biscuit, cookie, and drink, which is more than enough for most people. KFC is currently offering delivery too, which will help you stay safe and satisfied during the self-isolation orders.

8. Jack in the Box
Your favorite late-night craving spot is offering some great bundle deals too. This will help you get some of your favorite junk foods without spending a bundle on the option. The restaurant has two different boxes for lunch or dinner which include burgers, chicken sandwiches, tacos, fries, wedges, and so on. You can also find a breakfast box, which is perfect for mornings that are just a little hectic to even worry about cereal. All of these boxes are reasonably priced and will help cut back on some of the stress of prepping meal after meal.

9. Red Lobster
When it comes to seafood cravings, you might be surprised to learn that Red Lobster is offering some major deals for your family. You can find platters of seafood or chicken options, which will help fill up the family. There are fried options as well as healthier options too, which will help you plan for your family’s needs and wants. Each meal comes with two sides and their infamous cheddar biscuits, which will allow you to easily enjoy the restaurant experience. There are meals that start pretty cheap and those that are pricier. However, you’ll still end up spending less on these meals then you may have spent on two meals at the restaurant. You will also find platters of the restaurant’s most popular appetizers, which makes a great snack for kids. Finally, you can grab a whole cake or another dessert to make the meal stretch even further.

10. Baskin Robbins
If dessert is what you’re really after, then Baskin Robbins is the place to order from. Right now, the ice cream parlor is offering a DIY sundae kit that is great for the whole family. This amazing kit comes with your choice of two different ice cream pints. You will also receive one hot topping, like hot fudge or caramel. Then you can choose two side toppings from their huge selection of treats. Finally, you will receive a whole can of whipped cream, which can be used for other sweet treats, if there is any left.

Restaurants right now are really doing all they can to make your life easier and to keep their restaurants afloat. These amazing deals are certainly a treat for all to enjoy though, especially since the price tag won’t leave you hurting. So, enjoy a meal out every once in a while, because being at home and constantly cooking can really be exhausting.

With summer in sight and many quarantine orders still going strong, you might find that the need to hit the beach is greater than you ever imagined. During this time, a lot of people are taking matters into their own hands by transforming their backyard into a beach oasis. Some of these projects are taking up quite a bit of money, but there are a few things you can do to cheaply bring the ocean to your backyard. These items won’t just leave you with a beautiful place to go when you can’t get to the beach but will also give you a fun project to enjoy while you’re stuck at home.

1. Build a Sandpit
Sand is one of the major draws when it comes to most beaches. So, when you’re planning your ocean oasis in the backyard, you shouldn’t overlook the sand element. This can be one of the best elements of the beach, especially if you have kids to entertain. The best thing about building a sandpit is it is actually very easy. To begin with, find an area of the yard to designate as the pit. Then, clear the area of weeds, rocks, and so on. Once you have everything ready to go, place down some weed block, a thick plastic, or even a tarp to help prevent weeds from overtaking your pit. Then, add your sand. You can purchase this fairly inexpensively from many retail stores like Walmart, Home Depot, and Lowes. You might consider misting the sand every now and then to make it pliable for kids to play in. If you love the finer details, then you can also add some seashells.

2. Add a Pool
Swimming is a big part of beach life, so a pool is a must when you’re planning your backyard oasis. If you have a pool already then you’re set, but if not you might want to invest in one. You can easily get a normal pool and decorate the exterior to give it the beach vibes you desire. However, if you want to really get into the oasis look then you might put in an inground pool. This can be costly, so if you don’t actually plan on swimming then you can easily make your own pond that can double as a beachfront. Simply dig a small hole in the yard and add some kind of liner. Then, fill with water. You can place sand around the area to add to the effect. Although you might not be able to swim in this pool, you will be able to put your feet in the water while you soak up some sun. You can also do this with a baby pool if you don’t want to deal with liners. This might last you a bit longer too.

3. Plant Efficiently
If you really want to add to the atmosphere of your beach, then planting is one of the best things you can do. Beach plants can really make the environment shine, so make sure you add this element to your landscaping plans. The best thing about creating a beach is the plants used are exceptionally easy to grow. You might research which plants will grow best in your area before you get started though, so you don’t wind up feeling discouraged if your plants don’t make it. Most of these plants are pretty resilient but learning how to care for them will definitely help out. There are lots of guides online, so make sure to check them out before you order seeds or plants.

4. Beach Games
Of course, activities are a major part of beach days. Although you might not be able to embrace the waves, you can still play some of the more famous beach games. One of the easiest things to do is set up a volleyball area. This can easily be done with a cheap net and any sand that you have leftover. You can even use a cheap blow-up ball instead of a volleyball if you don’t have one lying around the house. Another element to add to your backyard fun is a frisbee. This can create hours of fun for the whole family. If you have enough space then a kite is another fabulous option to try out, especially if you have younger kids. If you do have a pool, then grabbing a boogie board can add to the fun while creating a more beach-inspired atmosphere.

5. Fire Pit
One of the more romantic elements of the beach is a fire under the stars. This might not be plausible in your backyard unless you have a fire pit to help keep the fire under control. You can purchase a wide variety of fire pits online though, so if you’d like a fire to celebrate your beach yard, then it is entirely plausible. However, if you want to save some money, building a fire pit isn’t hard at all. You might even have all of the materials needed at home already. Once you get your fire pit ready, make sure you have plenty of great snacks to cook under the stars as you sing your favorite songs and enjoy the atmosphere you created.

6. Boardwalk
The boardwalk can be one of the most exciting aspects of the beach. Unfortunately, you can’t really recreate some of the more social aspects of the boardwalk, like the restaurants, bars, and live music. However, you can create the appearance and the overall atmosphere of the boardwalk. You might grab some beach wood to create beautiful walkways to help highlight the different areas of your backyard. You can also redo your porch or patio with boardwalk inspired wood. When the hard work is complete, add some charming lights for the atmosphere or some tiki torches to give you the beach vibes you are craving.

7. Relaxing Seating
When it comes to the beach, relaxing is the biggest draw for most people. One of the easiest ways to bring a relaxing atmosphere to your home is to grab some beach-inspired seating. You can start by adding some beach chairs to the area. You can keep it simple with a lounge chair that you can find at most retail stores. However, you can also add some classic Brighton Beach styles if you really want to make a statement. Another cheap option is to just keep beach towels on hand that you can lay out on the land when you want to soak up some sun. Finally, a hammock is one of the more notorious beach seats. You can purchase a hammock quickly, but this relaxing bed is also very easy to make at home. There are many different types of hammocks too, which will definitely help you mix up the style of your beach oasis.

8. Consider Food
Food is another major part of the beach, which you might be longing to enjoy. Unfortunately, it can be hard to get beach vibes here, but you can try your hardest to recreate some of the dishes you might find. If aesthetic is what you’re going for then set up a concession stand or tiki bar to add to the good vibes. You can fill the concession stand with items like chips, sodas, and other snacks you might typically get from the beach. Your tiki bar might be wonderful for mixed drinks, juices, smoothies, and beer. Of course, if you have a grill then you can easily just whip up a few burgers and hot dogs or grill up vegetables and fish for a beach treat everyone will enjoy. If you want to keep things cheap then make yourself a picnic and get a durable cooler for all of your cold drinks.

9. Paint the Fence
The view of your fence might really cut back on the beach atmosphere. So, if you’re really feeling dedicated to your ocean oasis, then you might consider painting a nice scene from the beach on your fence. You don’t have to be a professional to pull this off as there are numerous tutorials to help you out. You can even use a stencil if you’re feeling nervous about your skills. There are a lot of different things you can paint on your fence too. If you love to surf then add some surfboards in the foreground with lots of waves in the background. If you’re a sunset person then add a colorful sunset to the fence. You can also keep it tranquil with seagrass in the foreground and a calm sea in the background. If you love ships, then add them to the mix. You can even create a huge scene with sea monsters if that’s your thing. This can be a great project too that will help you keep your mind off of everything that is going on.

10. Discover Soundtracks
Nothing sets the mood quite like a wonderful soundtrack in the background. One of the best things you can do is find a playlist to play in the background. If you love parties or surf vibes, then toss on some Beach Boys and related music to keep the positive energy going. Of course, if you’re just wanting to kick back and relax then find a playlist that offers the sounds of the ocean. There are so many streaming services that will offer these options for free, which can help you add the finishing touches to your backyard ocean.

Going to the beach might not be plausible this summer but hanging out in your backyard is. These tips will help you make the most of your summer while still helping you to get the beach vibes you desire. It doesn’t matter how far away you live from the ocean; these tips will make you feel like you’re living in a beach house, which will certainly help with this year’s added stress.

With schools pretty much taking place at home and many educational materials MIA, you might be struggling to engage your child in learning. If you’re looking for material that will help engage your child while helping them learn a bit about science, then dinosaurs are the way to go. One of the best things about dinosaurs is you can find something interesting to suit everyone from pre-school to high school. These ten ideas will help your kids keep their minds and imaginations busy while they learn all about dinosaurs and the science of paleontology. Best of all, all of these projects will help our budget out too, which will definitely make the learning process easier and more satisfying.

1. Dinosaur Media
When it comes to inspiration, there are a lot of great things that the media can provide for your child. If you really want to help your child get into dinosaurs then movies are one of the best ways. There are lots of cinematic features you can check out, like the Jurassic Park franchise. After watching the movies, you might talk about what was real and what wasn’t. Of course, there are plenty of other movies to check out too and numerous documentaries to help you get where you need to be as far as learning is concerned. If your child learns via music, then there are lots of kid songs that can help with memorizing dinosaur names and more. Of course, books are going to be one of your best resources. You can find fiction and non-fiction options too, which will allow you to suit every personality and learning style.

2. Toilet Roll Dinos
If you have younger children in the home, then crafts are one of the best ways to teach. One fun craft is to make dinosaurs out of toilet paper rolls. All you need is a variety of roles to choose from. Once the paper has been stripped, you can paint the toilet paper roll to look like the body of a dinosaur. Preschoolers might stick with a solid color while more advanced students might add scales. You can even add feathers to make the dinos look even more realistic. From there, create heads, arms, legs, wings, tails, and more from paper or paper plates. Once they’re finished, glue them on. Kids can play with the final result or you can hang them in their bedroom.

3. Dinosaur Shadows
Drawing a dinosaur is kind of hard and might be frustrating for some kids. Even if your child loves to freehand their favorite dinosaurs, you might want to mix things up a bit with their drawing time. One easy way to do this is to pull out some paper. You can do this on a single sheet of paper, or you can make a long mural with a paper roll. After you lay out the paper, place your child’s dinosaur toys on top of it. This will cast a shadow that kids can trace or paint. When they’re finished, they can add to the background or you can place the artwork on the wall. You can also use it to help them identify the dinosaurs that they play with on a daily basis.

4. Lifesize Footprints
It’s hard to build a dinosaur in the home, especially if you’re shooting for a real-life scale. However, you might consider making up some dinosaur footprints. There are a few ways to go about this. If you’re just looking for fun, then have kids make up a stamp to make prints on paper. If you want the learning experience, then you can look up the average size of prints for your kids’ favorite dinosaurs. Once you have the measurements, take a tape measure and mark them on the ground. Kids cause to use these guidelines to draw out the print based on a photo of the footprint from scientific discoveries. From there, take a photo of their work or fill it in with sand for a sandbox. It can also be used as a unique flower box. You can also have kids create footprints in the dough, which can be baked and shown off in their room.

5. Fossils
One of the biggest connections with the dinosaur world is the fossils that paleontologists find and study. So, in order to get in touch with this scientific marvel, you might have kids make their own fossils. There are actually numerous ways to pull this off, so you might look for tutorials and base your project around the items that you have around the home. You can also have kids make fossils out of things that are living, such as making an impression of a leaf which makes a great keepsake.

6. Dino Costume
Imaginative play is one of the best ways to learn and broaden the mind. However, we don’t all have inflatable dinosaur costumes lying around the house. Making a costume can be a fun way to keep the kids busy while helping them to learn. Ask the kids to pick a dinosaur and a color. From there, use an old cap to create the dinosaur face. You can do this with felt, paper, glue, or whatever else strikes your fancy. Try adding big teeth to the brim of the hat and eyes facing the sides of the hat. You can also add to the look by adding some detailing to a shirt that matches the color of the cap. You can draw on scales, glue on feathers, or whatever else makes your child happy. You can also whip up some fake feet and claws using cardboard. Finally, a tail will finish off the look and is easy to make out of a variety of things.

7. Online Museums
Visiting a museum is one of the best ways to learn about dinosaurs. Not only are there experts there to share knowledge, but you can see dinosaur bones, images, and so much more. Unfortunately, visiting museums isn’t particularly safe right now, so we have to come up with new ways to enjoy museums. Luckily, most museums are offering free online tours of their exhibits. So, you can walk through the halls of many museums around the world. There are so many museums that cater specifically to dinosaurs, but you can also check out some museums that only have a few exhibits.

8. Puppets
Children love to pretend and make up stories, so making puppets tend to be a big win for many kids. You can really allow kids to foster their imaginations when it comes to making puppets too. Puppets can be made from sacks, socks, popsicle sticks, paper plates, or anything else you have. Let kids choose the dinosaurs they’d like to create. Once the puppet is finished, have the kids make up a backstory for the puppet based on the dinosaur’s scientific details. This will help kids put the information they’ve learned into play so they can hold onto it longer. Kids can even put on production if they feel like it, which could help bring some joy to your day too.

9. Fossil Dig Site
Let your little scholar become a paleontologist for the day by allowing them to enjoy a dig site. You can do this in so many ways too, which will allow you to keep the activity fresh as much as you possibly can. One idea is to make dinosaur-shaped chicken nuggets. You can place them in mashed potatoes, under biscuits, and so on. Kids can then dig them out and eat their food. You can also do this with dinosaur gummies, which can be placed in crushed cookies, pudding, or ice cream. If food isn’t your thing then make some dinosaur shapes out of clay. Once they’re baked, place them in more clay for kids to chip away at. You can also bury them in a sandbox or just in the dirt. Of course, kids can even just dig in the dirt and let you know what type of fossil they believe they’ve found. Usually, they will only find rocks, but imaginations can run wild with games like this. Your dig site is entirely up to you, so have fun with it.

10. Real-Life Dino Hunt
We all know that we share the planet with some real-life relatives of the dinosaurs. So, you might want to go on a dino hunt when the kids are feeling restless. Kids can walk around and point out potential relatives that they spot. Birds and lizards are some of the more common options. When the hunt is over, look up the things you saw and see if they are actually related. You can also look up animals that are actually related, too. With zoos offering digital tours, you can have the kids explore zoos looking for dino relatives as well.

So many kids love learning about dinosaurs, which makes it a great subject if you’re trying to get your kids into science. These ten ideas will inspire kids to want to know more about dinosaurs while adding to the fun of the day. With these tips to keep everyone busy, you might find your little scientist is occupied all summer long.

Memorial Day is just over a week away, which can be exciting for anyone looking to save money on a little retail therapy. This year, Memorial Day is going to be a little different as most stores will only allow 25% occupancy, if they have their brick and mortar stores open at all. Luckily, most retailers today have online stores that will still allow you to get in the Memorial Day shopping experience without forcing you to get out of your pajamas. So, if you’re looking to purchase any of the ten items below, you’ll have a lot of fun surfing the deals and enjoying your brand-new sales items.

1. Laptops
Laptops are a popular purchase during Memorial Day, especially with so many graduating and preparing to start college. So, you will most likely find some major deals on some of the top brands that you have already come to love. When it comes to laptop deals, you’re going to find a whole lot of offers from HP and Dell. These two leading stores will have huge percentages off new and refurbished computers, so make sure you shop around to find exactly what you need. Other stores like Best Buy and Lenovo will also offer similar deals, but probably nothing quite as exceptional as these deals. Major retailers like Amazon, Target, and Walmart haven’t released their deals yet, but most stores will have competitive deals with potential price matching options.

2. Mattresses
Without a doubt, mattresses are one of the most popular items on sale during the Memorial Day holiday. Every year, mattresses are in full stock during this time, especially with new editions hitting stores. So, you might want to browse around online to see if there are any options that suit your needs. Some of the stores offering great deals on mattresses, accessories, and deliveries are Mattress Firm, Bear, Casper, AmeriSleep, Zoma, Purple, and Dreamcloud. However, this doesn’t mean that you should disregard the local mattress or furniture stores. Of course, shopping for a mattress online can be harder than doing it in person. So, you should do a little research to help you find the perfect option for you.

3. Patio Furniture
This year, patio furniture is going to be a huge draw for so many stores during the Memorial Day sales. Although it is already a big seller year after year, this year more people are interested in the furniture because they are stuck at home during the quarantine. So, if you’re looking to improve the exterior of your home then you’re going to want to check out stores like Overstock and Wayfairer for some of the greatest deals. These stores typically have lots of great options when it comes to patio furniture, so you might shop ahead a few weeks to make sure you’re actually getting the deals you’re promised. Macy’s is one of the more surprising places you can find deals on patio furniture, but with the company shutting down many stores you will definitely see more and more deals coming from their website. If you have an expensive taste in patio furniture, then World Market is going to be the place to go. You will find competitive prices on items that would normally cost you an arm and a leg. Finally, Home Depot and Lowes will have items you can even pick up in your local area, which might save you even more money and won’t leave you waiting on items to arrive as you will be able to do curbside pickup.

4. Appliances
Memorial Day isn’t the hottest time to purchase appliances, but if you’re on the hunt for replacements then it is still a great idea to shop now. After all, we will be facing shortages on appliances in the coming year, which will mean prices will be higher than ordinary. Some of the best places to shop for your appliance needs are going to be Lowes and Home Depot. These stores offer delivery, installation, and the works, as well as competitive prices. Best Buy is another option you shouldn’t overlook though. They will slash prices online, but you might also find an open box special that will get you off on the right track. If you’re not sure about open box items, contact your local store to see what they actually have in stock. Of course, if only small appliances are calling your name then Amazon is going to be one of the best places to get your online shopping done.

5. Gadgets
Electronics, other than laptops, are pretty hot options for Memorial Day sales too. For these items, you have a lot of different options to choose from. For instance, Walmart and Target have had a lot of deals on fitness watches, robotic cleaners, and other such gadgets. You might also find some deals on gaming consoles. Best Buy tends to have some of the best deals on gadgets because they specialize in them. So, you might want to start your search there. Of course, if you’re looking for Amazon specific items, like the Echo, then your best option is to look there. Camera fans will love the $650 in savings that Canon is offering on some of their camera and lens sets. So, make sure to browse around on your favorite gadget websites to find what you’re looking for at the best possible price.

6. Clothes
Whether you’re stocking up for a chic summer wardrobe or preparing for your winter climbing trips, there will be quite a few sales for you. Fashion fans will find lots of sales on this season’s clothes as well as last seasons on websites like Zappos, Macy’s, Nordstrom, Old Navy, Gap, and Levis. These websites are offering discounts on current trends, but many will also take even more off of sales prices from clearance items. If you have kids, then stores like Carters and Children’s Place will provide you with some awesome deals. Outdoor fans and athletes will find an assortment of options from Dick’s Sporting Goods.

7. Tires
If you’re looking forward to road trips when quarantine is over or you just need a fresh set of tires to get to work, then Memorial Day is going to be a great option for you. There are going to be many options to choose from, so make sure you look on websites that you trust to find tires that are great for you. Websites like Goodyear, in particular, will offer huge savings as well as rebates. You can also schedule a time to have your tires installed if this isn’t something you can do yourself. Make sure you order from a store in your area if this is an option you require. You should also look for coupons so you can save on this aspect of the purchase, too.

8. Glasses
With so many people working from home, you might find that your need for glasses is dire. Whether you’re after prescription frames or you just want something to block out the blue light, there are many options to choose from online. Many of these websites already offer big savings on frames, but you’ll find even more during this time. You might also find savings on lenses, which can make your purchase a lot cheaper. GlassesUSA, for instance, has already come forward with their 65% off frames option for the holiday.

9. Jewelry
Although the gift-giving holidays for jewelry have mostly passed, you will find that many stores that offer jewelry will have some pretty great deals on items. Largely, you will find some of the leftovers from Mother’s Day and maybe even Valentine’s Day, but there will be some classic items that you might be able to find discounts on, too. Apart from classic jewelry, you will find that the company most renowned for crystal merchandise will offer an extra 20% off of their prices. Fossil watches and other accessories will also have a whopping 25% off discount. So, don’t skip out on the jewelry just because you think the deals aren’t out there.

10. Furniture
Interior furniture is another super buy during the Memorial Day sales, so make sure you shop around for key items for your home. When you shop around for these items, you might check out stores in your local area first. You might be able to arrange a social distancing meeting to check out the item before you make your purchase. You can even save money by picking up the item yourself. Of course, other retailers will offer great savings too, but be careful when you ship items as the price might be a huge setback for all of the savings you think you’re getting.

Memorial Day is one of the best times for shopping, so don’t let the holiday pass you by because you’re stuck at home. These ten items will be on sale at a number of retailers, so get ready to get the items you want at a price that is desirable. You’ll love getting in your retail therapy when you have these amazing deals to enjoy.

As May rapidly progresses, graduation times quickly approach. 2020 is a special year for graduates, as they are trying to navigate their coming of age in a world that changed very quickly within just a few months. Where most students would be planning out ceremonies and after-parties, today’s graduates are trying to figure out where life will take them in such a changing and seemingly hopeless world. It’s important that we take the time to show these students we haven’t forgotten about them and their big achievement though. So, if you know a graduate, may it be a high school graduate or college, you might want to try out one or more of these frugal ideas to help make their accomplishment shine.

1. Virtual Toast
Many graduates love to receive a toast that helps show them how much support they have for their future, as well as how proud people are of them for their accomplishments. However, with most restaurants closed or only offering reduced occupancy, and people social distancing, a toast isn’t going to be an option for so many. That is why a virtual toast will help give your student the same warm feeling. In order to do this, make a plan with friends and family to meet up on your favorite video chat program. Everyone can gather up a meal and drink in order to make the toast feel normal. Then, invite your student to the chat and have everyone say something special. It might not be the same as having everyone available for hugging and more, but it will still bring hope and pride to those that should be walking across the stage.

2. Online Graduation
Many schools are actually talking about having online graduation, which is one of the best ways to help students feel special about their achievements. These online graduations are largely hosted by the school, but many famous people have stepped in to help create huge graduation ceremonies to ensure everyone gets the graduation experience. If your school isn’t talking about this, then you might want to talk with the parents of fellow students, or if you’re in college talk with your classmates. If you can get a lot of people on board then you might be able to talk the school into hosting a virtual graduation experience.

3. Contact a Billboard
One problem that many graduates are facing is the lack of recognition they are getting. Thus, one way you can truly make a difference is to place your student on a billboard. If you want to go the extra mile then see if you can get the entire graduating class on a digital billboard. Right now, so many companies are trying to help show support for graduates, so you might not have to do a lot of talking in order to get the task done. All you will need is the school’s permission, as well as the pictures and names of the graduating class. If you succeed in getting this accomplished then the school should be able to inform everyone of the news, so they can check out their name and image. This is almost like graduation in a sense, as students will definitely be known for their accomplishments.

4. Photoshoot
A lot of seniors are missing out on getting their senior photos taken, which is a huge part of the graduation process. However, you can remedy this problem by getting the photos taken at home. If you have a good camera or know how to use your cellphone like a professional camera, then you’re well on your way to senior photos you can be proud of. Most students can get a cap and gown with ease if they don’t already have one, so check online or talk to the school about it. Once you have the outfit your student wants to wear then find the perfect place for the photo shoot. It probably won’t take you long to get the pictures you need to remember the special year. You can also turn your photos into cards or a memory book to add to the memories.

5. Special Meal
After graduation, a lot of students like to go out for a special meal in order to celebrate. This is still a possibility, but you might have to skip out on the going out aspect. Instead of eating out, you can most likely order some of your favorite meals from an assortment of restaurants as so many are doing take out and carry out. You might not be able to have a meal with friends and extended family, but it will allow you to still celebrate the special moment. You should also make or purchase a celebratory dessert to make sure the graduate feels extra special.

6. Yard Sign
A lot of parents are trying to make their students feel special through other means. One of the most common examples is a sign located in the yard. This is a great way to show off some pride when you can’t have others around. You can actually make a sign yourself if you’re feeling creative. However, there are many websites available that will allow you to print a sign out that will look amazing in your yard. You might include your child’s achievements to make the sign even more rewarding. This shouldn’t set you back a lot either and will allow you to have a keepsake that will last for years.

7. Decorate
Just because you can’t have a party doesn’t mean you have to skip out on the decorations. Instead of putting the party on the back burner, you should decorate to show your pride. This will allow your graduate to feel like life will go on even when things aren’t going according to plan. Plus, it will help you have a little fun with the situation. If you don’t have decorations already, you can easily make some, so you don’t have to waste money. There are plenty of 2020 print outs to try out, but the real treat is the photos from school year’s in the past. This will truly make the decorations show the importance of your child’s accomplishments.

8. Memory Chain
A lot of students are craving time with their peers, so a memory chain is a great way to celebrate their achievement. You might set up a social media page so that people can share their memories with one another. Of course, you can also do the chain the old-fashioned way. You might get in touch with friends and classmates that your graduate has talked about. Then, ask them to mail in memory or email it to you. Once you get all of the memories together, take all of them and form a chain. This is a great keepsake and will help your graduate feel a greater connection with their classmates especially since no one can sign one another’s yearbooks right now.

9. Drive-by Parade
Drive-by parades have been a huge hit during the self-isolation orders. However, they have largely been used for birthday parties. With graduation here, you might want to use the parade to help celebrate the graduate in your life or the numerous graduates in your community. If you put out a call to action on a local board, then many people are bound to gather to help make sure graduates get the celebration they deserve. You can also have people sign up to have the parade go by their home so you can celebrate even more people. For the parade, people can drive by, shout congratulatory messages, show off signs, and so much more. It will certainly be a great memory for anyone missing out on graduation.

10. Talk About the Future
Although it might feel hopeless right now, it is important to take the time out of your day to celebrate your graduation by talking to them. Although you probably talk to your graduate on a daily basis, there are some major points that you should consider. One of the most important things to consider before you start the talk is to remain positive. It is important that you make sure they know their future does have hope as well as the ability to make dreams come true. You might discuss graduation trips, parties, college, living options, career options, and more. One thing you should discuss is choosing a career that will allow them to work from home if need be. These topics will help make planning more efficient while bringing a little more normality to life.

Graduates definitely aren’t getting the appreciation they deserve this year. However, many people are coming up with innovative ways to make their accomplishments shine. These ten ideas are only scratching the surface, so you can make the class of 2020 feel special during their moment to shine.

Right now, many photographers are stuck at home unable to carry on with their skills. There are also many aspiring photographers out there that can’t work on their skills or even try the hobby on for size. Getting out doesn’t have to be the only way you can embrace your photography skills though. Rather, you can keep your skills finely tuned and improve on them even when you aren’t capable of capturing images of people, places, and other things that you might normally capture. These ten tips will help you embrace photography while having some fun during the quarantine period.

1. Take a Class
Even if you can’t physically sit in a photography class, there are so many digital options available that you might not miss the real thing when it comes down to it. For starters, there are lots of photography videos that you can purchase online to ensure you get the most out of your camera. You can even surf on streaming websites for free videos that can help you on your way. In this day and age, there are many digital classes that you can take advantage of too. Right now, you’ll actually find a lot that is absolutely free to help you get more out of your quarantine time. However, you can also sign up for classes with an actual institution. These will earn you college credit if you do plan on carrying out photography as a career.

2. Learn to Make Props
Props can be a fun part of photography especially if you’re working on portrait photography. However, props can be remarkably expensive, which will leave you wondering if you can even afford to become a photographer or pick up the hobby. Rather than worry about the price tag of props, you might consider learning how to make your own. There are lots of tutorials online that will teach you how to make backdrops, photo props, and even costumes. This can help boost your photography to the next level while ensuring you feel proud of your photography and ability to save quite a bit of money on your skills.

3. Learn to Edit
One aspect of photography that many people overlook is the editing process. Now is the perfect time to learn some editing skills in order to improve your skills. You might start by pulling images you’ve previously captured and would like to improve on or take a few new photos to play with. Then, figure out which editing program you would like to work in. It really does help to have knowledge in a variety of programs as this will help you edit in every way imaginable. However, if you’re just beginning, you should just start with one program at a time. They tend to be easier to learn this way. There are lots of editing lessons online, as well as tutorial videos that you can choose from. When you’re finished with the learning process, you might even come out of the quarantine with a new interest in graphic design.

4. Revisit Old Work
A lot of people are suffering from a creative block during today’s current situation. A number of things can cause this which is why it is important to keep pushing forward. Being creative can help combat depression and anxiety, which are both huge problems during this period of time. If you can’t muster up the creativity to try or learn something new, then take the time out of your day to revisit your old work. You might be able to improve on it by adding new techniques you have learned since you last worked on it. It might even help you feel inspired to work on something new. You never know though, you might be able to create a masterpiece out of some of the things you work on from the past, which can actually boost your love of photography as well as your ability to make money from it.

5. Try Out a New Technique
If you’re an established photographer or you at least have a pretty good grasp of the information, then there are still things you can do to keep your skills going strong. For starters, you might consider learning a new technique. Even photographers that have been at it for years can learn a new technique or two. You might start by browsing around the internet to see if there is anything new and innovative to check out. If not, you might go back to basics and spend some time on a technique that you never really paid much mind too. Either way, your mind will be working on something, which will definitely help you learn and improve on your skills.

6. Photograph Things Around the House
A lot of photographers think they need to go out and embrace the world in order to make their photography entertaining and thought-provoking. This isn’t exactly the case though, especially since everyone is currently experiencing a world of isolation right now. Instead of feeling bummed out that you aren’t capturing your typical content, take some time to capture your current world. You can easily come up with a themed project that will help document how you spent your time in quarantine. This can include self-portraits, images of the people and animals around you, as well as mundane things like your cooking experience or sewing masks. You can take power in your home while photographing, so embrace the opportunity to see your home in a new way.

7. Read
One of the best things about photography is there are so many books on the subject. You can find everything from collections of artwork to the history of the art form. Thus, you might want to grab a few books in order to improve your own photography skills. Today, many libraries are doing a curbside pickup service, so you can still check out the books you need to improve your skills without spending a dime. Many libraries also offer an e-book program, which will also help you read up on your favorite topics. Some websites have even made their literature free for National Photography month, so you can pick up new techniques and more. Apart from that, you can purchase books on the subject from almost any retailer.

8. Explore Your Camera
Another important thing you can do while you’re at home is exploring your camera. So many photographers stick with essential modes that don’t allow them to fully embrace their camera. If you’re still a little curious about your camera, then look up the manual online and explore everything that it has to offer. You might find that there are settings and ways to improve your photography. Knowing your camera better will also help you hone in on your craft, which will improve your skills immensely.

9. Photo Challenge
When inspiration is low, the internet offers a wide assortment for you to draw from. One of the best things to check out is the photo challenge. Of course, you’ll probably run into a lot of these on social media, and many of them involve selfies. However, there are actually photo challenges from actual photographers. There are even quarantine inspired photo challenges, which will definitely help you get more out of the challenge. These challenges last anywhere from a few days to an entire month, which will give you an excuse to pull out your camera and take pictures every single day. You can do more than one challenge at a time too, which will help you stay occupied and working on your skills.

10. Practice Daily
Even if you don’t have resources to work with, one of the best things you can do is practice your craft every single day. You might consider working on framing your photos, master your focus, or even learn how to make your own filter. Practicing will allow you to learn even if you don’t have something to guide you. This will also help you to learn what you enjoy doing so you can get more enjoyment out of your photos. Of course, you can also practice your editing and developing skills, which can truly help you enjoy photography even more.

With National Photography month here, it might be hard to enjoy the craft as much as you normally would. These ten ideas can help you make the most of the situation, so you can still have some fun with photography and learn a few things. You never know, you might come out of quarantine with a new career prospective if you use the time to learn and master your craft.

May is Gifts from the Garden Month, which couldn’t come at a better time. Between everyone being bummed out over the coronavirus quarantine and Mother’s Day coming up, you can probably use a few gift ideas to help spread some joy and love. If you have a garden, then you already have a wealth of things you can gift to those that you love. These ten tips are only scratching the surface as to the numerous things you can make from your garden. After reading this article, you might find a variety of fun ideas to help you truly use the bounty that your garden provides for you.

1. Bouquet
Without a doubt, a bouquet is probably one of the more obvious gifts that you can provide for those that you love. If you have any flowers growing in your yard then you can easily whip up something beautiful for the people that could use a little cheering up. There are many ways to make a bouquet too, so you can easily create one to suit every personality. If you’re not sure how to begin then there are lots of tutorials online to help you get started. You might even consider making a special wrap or a vase to put your bouquet in. Even if you don’t give up the bouquet as a gift to someone else, learning how to make one will become a treat for your own house. This is especially true if you master how to mix colors and scents.

2. Framed Flowers
Another way to utilize the flowers in your garden is to turn them into beautiful works of art. One of the best ways to do this is to press the flowers you bring in. If you don’t want to waste the flowers, then simply place them in a bouquet until they begin to wilt. Then, press the flower between two pieces of paper and put something heavy on top of them. Once the flower is flattened, you can place it in a picture frame. One of the best options for this is to use a frame that uses two pieces of glass, so you can see through the frame. However, if you don’t have a frame like this then you can use a printed image to help bring out the beauty of the flower. Scrapbooking paper is one of the best ways to find a beautiful paper with ease and can even allow you to embrace themes.

3. Potpourri
Drying flowers can add so much to them and will allow you to display flowers without having to feel guilty about the waste. Once the flowers in your home begin to wilt, pull them out of the water and cut them from the stems. Then set them out on something that allows them to dry. It is important that each flower has its own space as it may not dry evenly if they are pressed against other flowers or stacked. When the flowers are all dry you can mix them with other types of flowers to create a great potpourri mix. This mix can be placed in a breathable bag for use in drawers. It can also be used to burn in a wax burner or placed in a bowl to create a beautiful scent in the home. Your potpourri mix can even be used to help bring extra charm to gifts.

4. Produce Basket
Right now, food isn’t the easiest thing to come by. Grocery shopping can be a little scary and a lot of the time items aren’t even in stock due to panic buying. Even if you’re getting groceries delivered or brought to your vehicle in a curbside delivery, you may find the items you order aren’t there. So, if you have produce in your garden then a basket might be a fun gift for many people. Simply place the fruits and veggies in a basket and you have a gift that many people would appreciate. You can even place the items in a bag if you’re low on baskets, crafting supplies, and so on.

5. Jams
If you have excess fruit in your garden, then you might consider getting into the jam game. This can be easily done at home if you have the supplies on hand. However, you can purchase canning supplies without spending a small fortune if you’re careful. Once you have your supplies and a general idea of the process then use your excess fruit to make some jams that everyone is going to love. You can play around with flavors, use beautiful jars, or even jam interesting items like jalapenos. This process might even keep you busy and entertained if you’ve been feeling down during the self-isolation period. Jams can last for quite some time too. Plus, they give a burst of sweetness to the day, which can’t be a bad thing.

6. Flavored Alcohol
When it comes to gifting for adults, especially during a quarantine, nothing says you care quite like some flavored alcohol. Best of all, this project doesn’t even have to take a lot of effort if you’re just looking for something easy to give. All you need for this is alcohol that you can purchase in bulk. Think harder liquor though like vodka, tequila, and gin. Then, work from the produce you have in your garden. For instance, you can make an apple pie drink with apples and vodka. There are lots of recipes online you can try out too. Best of all, you can give the gift as soon as you make the mixture, just make sure to give a date in which the alcohol can be consumed. After trying a few recipes, you might find that this is a fun hobby too, and will allow you to stock your own bar with interesting drinks your guests will love.

7. Infused Oils
If you have a foodie on your list then making some infused oils is a great way to share some of your garden with them. The fun thing about making infused oils is you can really go crazy with it. Of course, you can also keep it simple too. Some of the most popular options are to add some herbs to some olive oil. This makes for a great treat when cooking. You might also consider adding garlic, jalapenos, and other flavorful produce or herbs to the mix. This oil is great for cooking, but you can also use it to make snacking on bread even better. There are recipes online if you really want to get into your creations though.

8. Seeds/Cuttings
Your garden has the capability to make new gardens too, which can be a great gift to anyone hoping to put their free time to work outdoors. One of the easiest ways to provide the gift of gardening to others is to take seeds from your own plants. For instance, you can easily grab sunflower seeds or collect seeds from strawberries, bell peppers, and more. If your plant doesn’t provide a visible seed, or you want to help someone start out with a large plant, then cutting is a great idea. There are plenty of tutorials on how to do this, so you might want to start by looking up the plant you hope to provide a cutting of. Learning this process can also help you improve your own garden, which is a true gift to yourself.

9. Herbs
Most people love to add flavor to their food, so if you really want to provide a helpful gift then herbs are a great option. Getting to the store to purchase fresh herbs isn’t exactly in the cards for so many people, so providing cuttings of your herbs can help supplement for a lack of groceries. However, you don’t have to keep things fresh if you want your herbs to go a bit further. You can also dry them out and place them in a container for people to use. This is probably a better idea for those that you simply can’t provide directly for. The herbs will still taste great though and will have a longer shelf life.

10. Pet Rock
Not everyone has a green thumb. Of course, sometimes the weather, soil, and other elements simply don’t provide for a fruitful setting. In this case, you can still use your garden to create a wonderful gift. If you have rocks in your garden, then you’re already off to a great start. All you have to do is paint the rock to resemble a pet. You can get really creative with this too, which is part of the fun of the gift. If you know someone crafty then you can also create a pet rock kit for them so they can enjoy the fun too. Sending someone a fun pet rock is a great way to lift spirits though, even if the item takes them off guard.

May is a great time to dig in the garden and since so many have extra time on their hands, it might be wise to transform some of your items into gifts for those you care about. These ten ideas will help occupy your time while allowing you to enjoy the things you grow even more. This will truly help you gain a better appreciation for Gifts from the Garden Month.

If your area isn’t already sweltering hot, then you can pretty much bargain that the hot weather will be here faster than you can snap your finger. Unfortunately, this summer is looking like it will largely be spent in quarantine, and even if guidelines do relax a little you will probably find that most swimming pools will be shut down. This might be a problem for many kids who have already spent a considerable amount of time cooped up. Luckily, there are many alternatives that can help you get what you need so your kids can cool down, get some exercise, and have some fun. Best of all, these tips will help even if quarantine is still in place.

1. Purchase a Pool
Obviously, one of the best things you can do is purchase a pool for your home. Shopping around for a pool might not be a good idea right now, but there are so many stores online that can help you out with your pool needs. You can visit leading retail stores in order to find a good option for your family. Since stores will probably be pushing merchandise this season, you might even find that you’ll receive a good deal on anything that you purchase. Some stores will offer to pick up during this time, but you might be better offer having it shipped to the home. Since pools tend to cost a fair about of money, you might even receive free shipping which will save you some money. If you’re feeling really ambitious, then you might make it a summer goal to dig your own pool. It might take some time before you can hire someone to finish it for you, but the initial cost will be less since you did the digging yourself.

2. Create a Water Table
Water tables are a great way for younger children to enjoy some water time. You can easily purchase a water table from a store, but there are also many options that you can build yourself too. If it comes down to it, you can even just use buckets with a variety of toy options to help keep kids busy. Water tables allow children to explore sensory learning, which is important for their development. However, they also allow kids to keep cool during the hot days of summer. A water table doesn’t have to set you back a lot of money either, which will make it an asset if you’re struggling to get by during the shutdown period.

3. Sprinklers
Another fun way to get the pool or water park experience is to hook up your sprinkler. Kids can jump through the sprinkler for a little cooldown and some fun. You can even do fun things with the sprinkler like hang it from a tree or place it beneath a trampoline. You might also come up with some games to play under the sprinkler. Sprinklers will help to keep your lawn looking great too, so you’ll get a bit more out of it than some fun. Of course, if you don’t have a sprinkler there is no need to go out and buy one. You can easily make one out of a plastic bottle, which will help with your recycling too. You can even customize the bottle to add even more fun to your kids’ experience.

4. Sponge Ware
When it comes to getting really soaked while having some fun, nothing will brighten the kids’ day quite like a sponge war. All you need for this activity are some clean sponges and a bucket of water or two. You can even cut the sponges to make them into balls or other objects to improve on the games. From there, kids can have a free for all or you can make organized games. One idea is to make a water version of dodgeball. There are so many fun ways to add to this too and since you won’t have to use a lot of water the activity will cost you next to nothing, which is an added bonus.

5. Wash the Car
Another way to add to the fun while getting things done is to have the kids wash the car. Between the buckets of water and spraying the water hose, you’re going to find that there is a lot of water fun to be had in this activity. Plus, you’ll be getting your car detailed for practically nothing. This activity can also teach kids a valuable lesson, which will help them out when they get older. Apart from that, you will have a beautiful car waiting for you when you can finally get out. Of course, you should make sure that washing a car is legal in your area, as some places do not want soaps and chemicals washing down the drain. If you’re in a drought then you might also get in trouble for this activity.

6. Cold Bath
When a pool isn’t possible then you might put your little ones in a cool bath to help their imagination. A cold bath will act as a pool, which will allow them to splash, have a little fun, and cool down. There are many things you can do to make a cool bath more interesting too. For instance, you can add in some bubbles and colorful water tabs to improve on the bath. This will allow children to truly use their imagination as they make bubble beards or pretend they are swimming in a sea of green, red, yellow, or blue. Another fun idea to add to the tub is bath colors. This will let kids draw as they cool down. A cold bath doesn’t have to be reserved just for the kids though. After a long day in the heat, you too might enjoy a nice cold bath.

7. Visit the Beach/Lake
There has been a lot of controversy about people visiting the beach during our self-isolation period. If you can’t go to the pool this summer, then the beach or the lake is a great alternative. However, if you pull up to the area and find that it is totally crowded then it is in our best interest to stay away from the area. If you live near a watering hole that is always empty, then try this out. You will be able to relax while enjoying the water. Make sure you take precautions in the area though. For instance, you might stay further than six feet away from people as the wind can carry germs. You might also want to stay out of the water if you’ve noticed the area has been busy. This will help you stay safe while also helping you keep cool.

8. DIY Slippery Slide
If you’re looking for fun for the whole family then nothing works quite as well as a slippery slide. There are many options that you can purchase in store but making your own can be a lot more fun. The easiest way to pull this off is to use a tarp if you have one lying around the house. All you need is some water and dish soap and you’re good to slide. You can put the tarp on the ground for everyone to run and slide on, or you can elevate it for even more fun. Making your own slippery slide gives you creative freedom, which will certainly help you have some fun.

9. Water Balloons
Most kids are going to perk up when you say water balloons. This is largely because the balloons are so much fun and can be used in a wide selection of ways. Thus, kids aren’t likely to get bored with them as easily. One of the best things about water balloons is you can purchase them in bulk for next to nothing. This will allow you to enjoy games on a daily basis. If you’re not sure how to keep water balloons fresh throughout the summer, then you might consider looking up some fun games. For instance, you can do a water balloon dartboard, pinata, and so on. This will help add learning experiences and ample fun to the day while helping to keep the kids cool and happy.

10. Use What You Have
You might be surprised by how many potential toys that you have in your home. The first place you might look for a new item is your recycling bin, as there is so much potential there. As mentioned before, you can easily make a sprinkler from an empty water bottle, which can help you water the lawn and entertain the kids. If you have a two-liter bottle then you can even make a rain machine, which is a lot like a sprinkler but hangs up high to drench the kids. If you have an old spray bottle, then this can be utilized as a water gun for the kids. Pool noodles also make a fun water gun, especially if you have a pool. Of course, this only scratches the surface. You can find so many more ideas online, which will help keep the whole family busy.

There’s no doubt about it, summer is going to be hard without pools, splash pads, and water parks. However, while we are all making sacrifices, we can still find joy in water play. These ten ideas will help you make your kids’ summer even more enjoyable as they keep cool and play in the water in the style.