Category: Family Fun

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Area Attractions Blog Family Fun Lifestyle TX

February Day Trip: Discover the Charm of Gruene, TX

As the heart of winter graces Central Texas, there’s no better time to indulge in the quaint charm of a nearby destination that feels worlds away. For the residents of Crosswinds in Kyle, TX, the picturesque town of Gruene (pronounced “green”) offers an unforgettable day trip. Less than an hour’s drive away, Gruene is a treasure trove of history, culture, and entertainment, making it the perfect escape for a serene yet exciting winter outing.

The Allure of Gruene, TX

Nestled along the Guadalupe River, Gruene is renowned for its rich history and small-town charm. Founded in the 19th century, the town boasts a beautifully preserved historic district that feels like stepping back in time. In the crisp February air, you can explore the area’s charming streets lined with antique shops, artisanal boutiques, and cozy cafés. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, even in the cooler months, making it an ideal destination to relax and recharge.

Start Your Day with History and Shopping

Begin your journey by visiting the iconic Gruene General Store, where you’ll find an array of unique souvenirs, old-fashioned candies, and locally crafted goods. Just a short stroll away, antique lovers will delight in exploring the Gruene Antique Company. With its wide selection of vintage treasures, you might discover the perfect piece to add character to your home.

Savor Local Flavors

No trip to Gruene would be complete without indulging in its culinary delights. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at The Gristmill River Restaurant & Bar, one of Texas’ most iconic dining destinations. Housed in a restored cotton gin overlooking the Guadalupe River, The Gristmill serves hearty Southern dishes that are perfect for warming up on a cool winter day. From chicken-fried steak to pecan pie, the menu offers something for everyone.

Sip and Relax at Local Wineries

After lunch, take advantage of Gruene’s proximity to some of Texas’ finest wineries. The Winery on the Gruene offers a delightful tasting experience with handcrafted wines that cater to a variety of palates. Whether you prefer a robust red or a crisp white, the winery’s intimate setting and knowledgeable staff make it a memorable stop.

Catch a Concert at Gruene Hall

Gruene Hall, Texas’ oldest dance hall, is a must-visit for music lovers. Known for its rustic charm and legendary live performances, this venue has hosted some of the biggest names in music. Check the schedule for February’s lineup, and you may find yourself dancing the evening away to the sounds of local and national artists. Even if you’re not a dancer, the vibrant energy and rich history of Gruene Hall make it an unforgettable experience.

Stroll Along the Guadalupe River

For those who prefer a quieter end to the day, take a peaceful stroll along the Guadalupe River. The scenic views and soothing sounds of the water provide a perfect opportunity to reflect on the day’s adventures. The winter months bring a serene beauty to the riverbanks, offering a moment of tranquility to cap off your visit.

Why Gruene is Perfect in February & March

Winter in Texas is often mild, and February’s cooler temperatures make it an ideal time to explore Gruene without the crowds of summer tourists. The town’s charm is enhanced by the season, with cozy settings, heartwarming food, and a relaxed pace that invites you to savor each moment.

Plan Your Visit

Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, a fun family outing, or a solo adventure, Gruene has something to offer everyone. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty, a day trip to Gruene is sure to leave you feeling refreshed and inspired. So, pack your bags, hit the road, and discover why Gruene is the perfect winter escape for the Crosswinds community. Contact us today to learn why Crosswinds is the perfect place to call home.

 

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Blog Family Fun Kyle Kyle Texas Lifestyle

Bringing the Outdoors Inside: Elevate Your Winter Interiors at Crosswinds

As the chill of February settles in, many of us at Crosswinds find solace in our cozy homes. But let’s be honest—winter has a way of making us miss the lush greens and colorful blooms of the great outdoors. The good news? You can bring a little bit of that natural beauty inside, even during the coldest months. Here are a few different ways to bring the outdoors inside during the winter months:

Elevate Your Space with Nature-Inspired Decor

The first step in bringing the outdoors inside is to incorporate natural elements into your decor. These additions can subtly evoke the essence of nature and make your home feel more harmonious.

  • Textiles and Patterns: Opt for throw pillows, blankets, or curtains adorned with botanical prints, earthy tones, or textures that mimic natural elements such as woodgrain or stone.
  • Natural Materials: Wooden bowls, rattan baskets, and ceramic vases are timeless additions that bring warmth and organic charm to any room. Pair these items with soft lighting to amplify their natural appeal.
  • Seasonal Centerpieces: Assemble a centerpiece using pinecones, dried flowers, and branches. These arrangements add an effortless rustic elegance that complements the winter season.

Choosing the Right Indoor Plants

Houseplants are an excellent way to breathe life into your home during winter. While some plants require ample sunlight and meticulous care, others thrive with minimal attention and limited natural light—perfect for brightening your space without adding to your to-do list. Here are a few low-maintenance options to consider:

  1. Snake Plant (Sansevieria): Known for its architectural beauty, the snake plant is an excellent choice for low-light corners or tabletops. Its striking, upright leaves add height and texture to any space. Even better, this plant requires infrequent watering and is highly forgiving.
  2. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum): A favorite among novice plant parents, pothos is a trailing plant that thrives in various light conditions. Its cascading vines make it perfect for hanging planters or high shelves, where its lush greenery can cascade gracefully.
  3. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia): The ZZ plant’s waxy, deep green leaves exude elegance and vitality. This resilient plant requires little sunlight and can go weeks without water, making it ideal for busy schedules.
  4. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum): For a touch of sophistication, consider the peace lily. Its glossy leaves and occasional white blooms bring understated beauty to any room. This plant thrives in low to medium light and only needs watering when its soil is dry.
  5. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum): The spider plant’s arching foliage and easy propagation make it a fun and functional addition. Its ability to tolerate less-than-ideal conditions ensures it remains vibrant throughout winter.

Tips for Maintaining Indoor Plants in Winter

Winter can be a challenging season for houseplants, but a few simple adjustments can keep them thriving:

  • Avoid Overwatering: Most indoor plants require less water during the winter. Check the soil moisture level before watering to avoid root rot.
  • Group Plants Together: Placing plants in clusters can create a mini microclimate with higher humidity, which many plants appreciate during the dry winter months.
  • Clean the Leaves: Dust can accumulate on leaves, hindering their ability to photosynthesize. Wipe them gently with a damp cloth to keep them healthy.

A Winter Retreat

Combining nature-inspired decor with a curated selection of low-maintenance plants can transform your home into a peaceful retreat. Not only will your space feel more vibrant and alive, but these small touches will also uplift your mood and enhance your well-being throughout the season.

Whether it’s a single snake plant adorning your windowsill or an artful centerpiece gracing your dining table, these thoughtful additions will help your Crosswinds home feel even warmer this season. To learn more about life at Crosswinds, contact us today!

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Blog Family Fun Kyle Kyle Texas Lifestyle

Hangry Joe’s Hot Chicken is Coming to Kyle!

Big news, Crosswinds! We’re thrilled to announce that Hangry Joe’s Hot Chicken is on its way to Kyle, and it’s going to bring some serious flavor to our community. Construction has officially kicked off, and if all goes as planned, we’ll be enjoying their mouthwatering menu by the end of April.

 

What Makes Hangry Joe’s So Special?

This isn’t your typical fried chicken spot. Hangry Joe’s takes the best of both worlds—the bold, spicy punch of Nashville hot chicken and the irresistible crunch of Korean fried chicken—and combines them into something truly unforgettable. Whether you prefer mild and flavorful dishes or enjoy pushing your palate to the limits with bold, spicy heat, Hangry Joe’s menu offers a delectable array of options to satisfy every taste.

 

More Than Just Great Food

The forthcoming location in Kyle is set to be much more than a restaurant; it aspires to be a central gathering place for our community. With its warm and inviting ambiance, Hangry Joe’s is poised to become an ideal spot for a variety of occasions. Imagine reconnecting with friends over plates of golden, crispy chicken, enjoying a casual yet elegant meal with your family, or treating yourself to a delightful solo dining experience. The welcoming environment, paired with its exceptional menu, ensures that Hangry Joe’s will quickly become a cherished local destination.

 

Kyle Keeps Growing

Adding Hangry Joe’s to our neighborhood is more than just a tasty addition; it’s a sign of how much Kyle is growing and thriving. At Crosswinds, we’re lucky to be right in the middle of it all, and having a spot like this nearby means more great dining options without having to venture far from home. It’s just one more reason to love living here!

 

Countdown to Opening Day

Construction is already underway, and we’re counting down the days until Hangry Joe’s opens its doors. Mark your calendars for late April, and get ready to dig into a menu packed with flavor. Whether you’re a fried chicken fan or just curious to try something new, Hangry Joe’s is sure to wow you. You can follow Hangry Joe’s on social media to monitor any announcements regarding their upcoming Kyle location!

 

Let’s Show Some Local Love

Supporting local businesses is one of the best ways to keep our community vibrant and full of life. Hangry Joe’s coming to Kyle is a big win for all of us, and we can’t wait to welcome them with open arms (and empty stomachs!). Hangry Joe’s arrival underscores the vitality and potential of Kyle as a destination for both residents and visitors alike. By embracing this new addition, we contribute to the continued success and vibrancy of our city.

 

Stay Tuned

We’ll be sharing updates as the opening day gets closer, including sneak peeks of the menu and any special events they have planned. Follow along and get ready to experience something delicious. We can’t wait to see you at Hangry Joe’s in just a few short months!

To learn more about how Kyle is growing for Crosswinds residents, contact us today!

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Blog Family Fun Kyle Texas Lifestyle

Celebrate Love at Crosswinds: Unforgettable Valentine’s Day Ideas

Valentine’s Day is a time to celebrate love and connection, and as a resident of Crosswinds, you have a wealth of options to make the day unforgettable. Whether you prefer the comfort of your home or the charm of exploring your local community, there are countless ways to create special moments with your loved ones. Here are some curated ideas to help you plan a memorable Valentine’s Day:

 

Celebrate Love at Home

Sometimes, the most romantic gestures come from the heart of your home. Here are a few elegant and cozy ways to celebrate at Crosswinds:

 

A Candlelit Dinner at Home

 

Transform your dining space into a romantic retreat by preparing a special meal or ordering from a favorite local restaurant. Dim the lights, set the table with fine linens and candles, and play soft music to create an ambiance of intimacy. Consider pairing your meal with a bottle of wine from H-E-B Plus! or another local wine shop to enhance the evening.

 

Movie Night Under the Stars

 

Take advantage of your backyard space by setting up a cozy outdoor movie night. Hang string lights, lay out blankets and cushions, and watch your favorite romantic films under the Texas sky. Don’t forget to include a spread of snacks like popcorn, chocolate-covered strawberries, and sparkling cider.

 

DIY Spa Experience

 

Turn your bathroom into a spa haven. Prepare a relaxing bubble bath with rose petals and essential oils, and pamper each other with homemade face masks or massages. This intimate experience is a great way to relax and reconnect without leaving home.

 

Explore Romantic Experiences in Kyle

 

For those who wish to venture out and enjoy all that Kyle has to offer, here are some wonderful local options:

 

Dinner at a Local Gem

 

Kyle boasts several excellent dining spots perfect for a romantic evening. Try the sophisticated yet cozy atmosphere of Ilarios Italian Cuisine, where you can savor classic Italian dishes. For a more casual yet equally delightful experience, head to Hays City Store, known for its Texas comfort food and live music.

 

Stroll Through Lake Kyle Park

 

Lake Kyle Park offers a serene backdrop for a romantic stroll. Take in the natural beauty as you walk hand-in-hand along the trails or enjoy a picnic by the water. This peaceful setting is perfect for meaningful conversations and shared moments.

 

Wine Tasting at a Local Vineyard 

 

Explore the nearby Duchman Family Winery in Driftwood, just a short drive from Kyle. This picturesque winery offers tastings of their award-winning wines in a stunning setting. Share a toast to your love while enjoying the scenic views of the Texas Hill Country.

 

Sweet Treats to Share

 

End your day with something sweet. Stop by Texas Pie Company for a slice of their famous pies or order a whole pie to share at home. Their decadent desserts are a perfect way to indulge together.

 

Unique Ideas to Spark Connection

 

Whether at home or out and about, here are a few additional ideas to make the day extra special:

  • Personalized Gifts: Exchange heartfelt gifts like a scrapbook of your favorite memories or a handwritten love letter. These personal touches mean more than any store-bought item.
  • Take a Class Together: Look for workshops or classes in Kyle, such as cooking, painting, or dancing. Shared experiences can be both fun and bonding.
  • Volunteer as a Couple: Spend the day giving back by volunteering at a local shelter or charity. Acts of kindness can strengthen your bond while benefiting the community.

 

Valentine’s Day is about cherishing the connections that matter most, whether through grand gestures or quiet moments of togetherness. With these ideas, you can create a day filled with love, joy, and elegance right here in Kyle, Texas.

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Amenities Family Fun Kyle Texas

Amenities That Make Crosswinds Shine

Everyone wants to enjoy the place they live. It’s this simple yet all-important idea that the developers behind Crosswinds took to heart when designing the master-planned community. 

 

In addition to stunning homes designed by today’s top builders, the amenities offered in Crosswinds are a big selling point for many residents when choosing where to buy. 

 

Cool Down on Hot Summer Days

 

As every Texan knows, summers in the Hill Country can be incredibly hot. While there’s no shortage of fantastic swimming holes and rivers to float down in, sometimes you just want to stay close to home. 

 

The pool and splash pad are two of the most popular community amenities during the summer months. The spacious pool is perfect for lounging on a pool float, while the nearby kiddie pool and splash pad are always a hit with the little ones. Surrounding the pool area are a number of umbrella shade covers, providing a welcome relief from the summer sun.

 

Get Active

 

The Crosswinds community was designed with features that will appeal to residents looking to get outside in nature and get active. 

 

Residents can enjoy a morning jog or after-dinner stroll on the extensive trail system that weaves its way through the community. There are also basketball and pickleball courts for anyone looking to work in a little bit of cardio, along with some friendly competition. 

 

Crosswinds’ four-legged residents will love heading to the dog park to burn off some energy. (The park also gives their owners a chance to catch up and chat and meet other members of the community.)

 

Unwind and Relax

 

Families with young children will want to take advantage of the playscape. It’s the perfect spot to allow the kiddos to meet new friends or simply have some fun after a long day at school. 

 

The grilling and picnic areas are not to be missed and are ideal for enjoying a meal outside. They’re a particularly great way to cap off a day at the pool or cook up some grub on the grill before a fall football game. 

 

Each of the resort-style amenities was carefully selected to appeal to a variety of lifestyles and reflect Crosswinds’ commitment to creating a community that’s more than simply a place to live. Whether it’s a relaxing day of hanging out by the pool or an early morning bike ride on the community trail system, the ever-expanding amenities are one of the features that make Crosswinds such an appealing place to call home. 

If you’d like to learn more and discover if Crosswinds is the exclusive community you’ve been looking for, reach out to our team today.

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Blog Family Fun

Unique New Year’s Eve Traditions from Around the World

Whereas many celebrations are limited to specific countries and cultures, welcoming in a new year is a celebration that spans around the entire globe. Here in the United States, New Year’s Eve is often celebrated with a countdown, a glass of champagne, and maybe a New Year’s kiss, but other countries have their own unique spin on ushering in January 1st. 

 

Here are some New Year’s Eve traditions from around the world that you may want to incorporate into your own festivities this year. 

 

Spain’s Grape Tradition – Spain is known, of course, for its wine, and while plenty of it is consumed on New Year’s Eve, the last 12 seconds of the year are reserved for grapes. As the countdown to a new year begins, Spaniards hurry to eat 12 green grapes. If you fail to consume them all before the clock strikes midnight, you might just have bad luck, but if you get them all down, then 12 months of good fortune awaits you. 

 

Philippines’ Round Fruits – Here’s an easy one to incorporate if you’re looking for a new New Year’s tradition. Head to your local grocery store and pick up 12 round fruits. The shape of the fruits symbolizes prosperity and wealth for each month of the new year. Not to mention all those apples, melons, grapes, and nectarines will make a wonderful table centerpiece for any celebrations you might have. 

 

Scotland’s First Footing – If you’re in Scotland, it’s especially important that you pay attention to who enters your home in the new year. Known as “first footing,” a special emphasis is placed on the first person to enter a house after midnight in the new year. A dark-haired male is the ideal first footer, as this person is said to protect against bad luck. The first footer should also not be empty-handed, as this could bring about financial misfortune. 

 

Greece Onions – In Greece, it’s a New Year’s custom to hang a bushel of onions from your door as a symbol of rebirth. The tradition goes all the way back to ancient Greece when onions were noted for their vitality, sprouting even with no care at all. The onions are typically hung on the door after attending a New Year’s Day church service to kick off the new year. 

 

Japan’s Soba Noodles – Soba noodles are a popular ingredient in Japanese ramen, and the food holds a special place on New Year’s Eve when it’s eaten just before midnight. The Toshikoshi soba, which translates to a “year-crossing,” is a buckwheat noodle with special symbolism. The especially long noodle is usually cut, signifying a letting go of any regrets from the previous year to bring about a fresh start. 

 

Colombia’s 3 Potatoes – It’s customary in the South American country to place three potatoes – one peeled, one unpeeled, and one half peeled – under your bed on New Year’s Eve. Then, at midnight, you pull out the first potato you touch. A peeled potato means financial woes, an unpeeled spud means abundance and a half-peeled tater means a mix of both. 

However you celebrate the new year, nothing beats ringing in 2025 in a home that you love. If you’re looking to settle into your dream home, contact the Crosswinds team today to learn more about our available inventory of homes.

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Blog Family Fun

Sip into the Season: Festive Cocktail and Mocktail Recipes!

The holiday season is, without a doubt, the most delicious time of the year, and when it comes to drinks, the possibilities are nearly endless. From sour to sweet, tart to zesty, consider trying out these cocktail and mocktail holiday libations to put an extra bit of jolly in your step. 

 

Cocktails

 

Cranberry Mimosas – Nicknamed the Poinsettia cocktail after the holiday flower, this libation is perfect for a Christmas morning brunch. The cranberries add a tartness that compliments the champagne perfectly with just a hint of sweetness. 

 

  • 1 lime, halved
  • 2 Tbsp. sugar
  • 8 ounces of sweetened cranberry juice
  • 1 bottle champagne
  • 12 fresh cranberries
  • 4 small sprigs fresh rosemary

 

Sugar Plum Fairy Cocktail – If you’re looking to put a little holiday magic in your cup, this Nutcracker-themed martini should do the trick. It’s perfect for a holiday party with some glitz that’s refined but still fun. 

 

  • 2 ounces gin
  • 1 ounce plum simple syrup
  • 1/2 ounce lemon or grapefruit juice
  • 1 egg white 

 

Spiced Apple Cider Mule – Moscow Mules are a classic cocktail, but the vodka-based drink easily adapts to a holiday beverage that is perfect for sipping in front of a roaring fire on a chilly December night. 

 

  • 4 ounces warm apple cider
  • ½ ounce simple syrup
  • 1 ounce lime juice1 
  • 2 ounces vodka
  • 4 ounces of ginger beer
  • cinnamon stick for garnish

 

Mocktails

 

Holiday Berry Fizz – Perfect for the kiddos or anybody who simply wants to skip on the booze, this sweet sip makes an ideal after-dinner seasonal treat. 

 

  • 1 10-ounce bag sliced frozen strawberries, defrosted
  • 2 Tbsp of honey
  • 1 8-ounce bag of frozen blueberries, defrosted
  • 4 ounces of ginger beer
  • 1 bottle of sparkling white grape juice

 

Gingerbread Mocktail – Now, if you’re in need of a dessert in a glass, this soon-to-be classic mocktail takes the iconic holiday gingerbread house and adapts it into a drink that taps into holiday memories of Christmas past. 

 

  • 2 Tbsp orange juice
  • 1 tsp molasses 
  • ¼ tsp cinnamon
  • ¼ tsp ginger
  • pinch nutmeg
  • pinch of cloves
  • 1 tsp maple syrup
  • 4 ounces of ginger beer

 

Citrus Sparkler – This crisp beverage is perfect for laying around the house after the kiddos have opened presents and you need a little bit of vitamin C to balance out that second cup of coffee.

 

  • 2 Tbsp orange zest
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 cup hot water
  • (Let sit overnight to make orange simple syrup)
  • 1/2 cup orange juice
  • 1/2 cup tangerine juice
  • ½ club soda
  • lime slice for garnish

Whether it’s entertaining for a holiday happy hour or making mocktails for your crew at breakfast, nothing beats spending the holidays in a home you love. If you’d like to learn more about the available inventory in the Crosswinds community, reach out to our team today.

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Blog Family Fun

Jingle All the Way: Tips For Hosting a Virtual Holiday Gathering

Nothing beats getting together with friends and family to celebrate the holiday season, but gathering together in person isn’t always possible due to work schedules, distance, or any number of factors. 

 

Thanks to the wonders of technology, virtual gatherings allow people on entirely different continents to spend time together. 

 

Here are a few tips for hosting a virtual holiday gathering that won’t have you saying “bah humbug.”

 

Set a Date

 

Like any get-together, the success of a virtual holiday gathering is dependent, first and foremost, on an agreed time and date. The host of the party should pick a party date and send out a Zoom link to all invited, preferably a few days in advance. 

 

Okay, now that the mandatory stuff is out of the way, it’s time to focus on the fun part of the party planning!

 

Make it Fun

 

A Zoom meet-up over the holidays should never be boring. From bingo to ugly sweaters and cookie decorating, creating some virtual Christmas magic just requires a little creativity. 

 

Ugly Sweater Party – People like to dress up during the holidays, even if that means putting on a sweater they wouldn’t normally be caught dead in. This classic holiday party works fantastic on a virtual level, as there’s a level of anticipation that builds with each new person who logs in. 

 

Take things up a notch and challenge your guests to contend for the ugliest holiday sweater, with a secret prize going to the winner. 

 

Keep Things Crafty – Put together a holiday craft kit ahead of time that you can send out to each invited party guest. (If you have a large number of guests or a tight budget, then you may want to send out a list of supplies your guests can purchase themselves ahead of time.)

 

You’ll want to keep the craft ideas relatively simple for those guests who haven’t used a bottle of glue since elementary school. This idea not only allows guests to get a little creative, but gives them a keepsake to cherish as well. 

 

Holiday Games – Games and holiday parties go together like Santa and cookies. A classic game is Christmas bingo. You’ll want to distribute a bingo card to each guest with their invite. Players then check off the various boxes as the virtual holiday party progresses. 

 

If your crew is more of a trivia bunch, then games like “Name That Christmas Tune” could be a hit. Have one party guest act as the DJ playing a holiday song, with party guests chiming in to see who can name the song the quickest. 

 

Cook Something Up – Food is a must for any party, especially around the holidays. A cookie decorating party is great fun, as everyone loves the smell of freshly baked cookies. If you know your guests are regular bakers, then supply everyone with a recipe ahead of time they can bake together. 

 

If not everyone is a baking champion in training, then going the slice-and-bake route with a few cans of frosting and sprinkles is still a winning recipe for a delicious time. 

Whether hosting a party in-person or virtually, sharing a home you love with others is always a blessing. If you’d like to learn more about the available inventory of homes in the Crosswinds community, contact us today.

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Blog Family Fun

Kid-Friendly Crafts for Fall Fun!

Whether you’re looking to get crafty with natural materials or simply be inspired by nature, here are some fun ways for kiddos to tap into their creativity this fall. 

 

Painted Pumpkins

 

Carving pumpkins is a lot of fun, but it can also be incredibly messy, and with small children, mom or dad generally end up doing 95% of the pumpkin carving. Painting pumpkins is a great alternative that is pumpkin gut-free and no sharp carving tools required!

 

Painting a goofy or spooky face is always a classic, but the range of pumpkin painting ideas is nearly endless. Older kids may do better with acrylic paint, but for the littles, keep things easy and opt for washable paint. 

 

Leaf Turkeys

 

Making a leaf turkey is a simple craft that children of all ages enjoy and can be done with just a few inexpensive materials. You’ll need some brown and orange construction paper for the turkey’s body and beak, a pair of googly eyes, scissors, and glue. 

 

This is a good project once the leaves start turning colors since you’ll want to head into the yard to grab around a dozen leaves for the turkey’s feathers. 

 

Thanksgiving Cards

 

Nurturing gratitude in kids is important for helping them grow into healthy adults, and everyone loves getting a hand-written card. 

 

It doesn’t have to be something elaborate. Your child could draw a festive picture, the favorite activity of the person they’re giving the card to, or simply write a message expressing gratitude for this person in their life. The important thing is helping kids to recognize and express thanks to friends and family. 

 

Leaf Rubbings

 

Leaf rubbings are a super easy craft… and one more way to make use of all those leaves that have fallen in the yard. 

 

You’ll need: 

  • Crayons
  • White paper
  • Leaves of various shapes and sizes

 

Peel the paper off your crayons and place the paper over your leaves. You can either do each leaf individually or arrange them in a pattern. 

 

Hold the crayon sideways and gently rub it over the paper area on top of the leaf to reveal the leaf’s texture underneath. 

 

Thanksgiving Table Art

 

Most people don’t have the chops or time to go all out Martha Stewart style when it comes to making a Thanksgiving table centerpiece. Getting your kids involved in the decorating is a great way to keep them busy while they’re home from school and, hopefully, free you up to focus on the meal. 

 

Here are a few easy craft ideas for kids that double as table art:

 

  • Have kids paint funny faces and glue paper feathers on gourds and baby pumpkins to create mini turkeys
  • Fill soda bottles with colorful popcorn kernels or dried beans and use them as candle holders
  • Gather up colorful leaves and have kids place them between two sticky pieces of contact paper to make placemats
  • Use some paint, construction paper, and cardboard rings to make festive napkin rings for the big meal. 

 

These craft ideas will not only keep your crew busy and having fun but give your home a festive touch of fall. 

To learn more about the Crosswinds master-planned community and available inventory of homes, contact our team today.

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Blog Family Fun Lifestyle Tips

Mastering Meal Prep: Time-Saving Strategies for Busy Families

Families are busier than ever, but thankfully, meal prep is one area of life where a few time-saving strategies can make all the difference. 

 

Make a Meal Plan

 

The first step to any good meal plan is creating a master list of meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) that you know your family will actually eat. You’ll want to be sure and mix in enough variety so that your family members aren’t rolling their eyes by week three. 

 

From there, you’ll need to decide on what meals you plan on cooking that week and take inventory of what’s already in the kitchen before you head to the grocery store. You’ll want to do this around the same day each week to get in the habit of making this part of the weekly routine. 

 

Freezer Meals for Busy Days

 

Even with a good meal plan, there are probably going to be those days when, by 9 AM, it’s obvious that there’s not going to be enough time in the day to cook a full meal. This is where the freezer meal backup plan comes in. 

 

You’ll want to carve out some time in your schedule when you know you can make an extra meal that you can put in the freezer for those super busy days. How many you want to keep on deck is up to you (and how big your freezer is), but two or three never hurts. 

 

Some meals freeze better than others, so be sure to pick recipes that thaw well. Stews and casseroles are usually a safe bet. 

 

Simplify Recipes

 

Everyone likes a home-cooked meal made from scratch. The problem is that “from scratch” can be very time-consuming. Luckily, it’s pretty easy to simplify many classic recipes and still deliver a delicious meal the family will love. 

 

Here are a few simple ways to take some of the work out of recipes:

 

  • Opt for canned veggies over fresh
  • Buy frozen or pre-sliced veggies
  • Ask your grocery butcher to slice the meat you’d like to buy
  • Invest in an Instant Pot or Crock Pot
  • Instead of slicing garlic or ginger, buy the already-minced version
  • Toss your meats and veggies on a baking sheet for an easy sheet pan dinner
  • Make use of a preheating oven for roasting veggies that aren’t as sensitive to a fully heated oven

 

Involve the Family

 

There’s no reason not to get the entire family involved if they’re going to be eating the food, too. (Okay, babies and toddlers might be more trouble in the kitchen than help, but everyone else…) Bringing in the entire family to help with some aspect of the meal prep can take part of the load off your shoulders and will also help children be more confident and independent in the kitchen. 

 

Even if it’s something as simple as grabbing a box of pasta from the pantry, dumping in a can of corn, or stirring a pot of chicken noodle soup, kids (and spouses) will gradually feel more comfortable and probably even enjoy helping with meal prep. 

A well-designed and functional kitchen can make all the difference when it comes to meal prep. To learn more about the amenities and floor plans of the homes in the Crosswinds community, contact our team today.

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