Cork Your Excitement! It's Pumpkin Painting Time!

Calling all crafty kiddos (and grown-up helpers)! Fall is in the air, and that means pumpkins are everywhere! But this year, why not skip the mess of carving and try a fun, textured pumpkin project using everyone's favorite leftover - wine corks?

Looking for a fun and festive fall craft for the kids? Look no further than cork pumpkins! This project is perfect for little hands and even littler attention spans. It's easy to set up, uses recycled materials, and lets kids unleash their creativity. Plus, it's a great way to introduce them to painting in a tactile way.

Here's what you'll need:

• Wine corks (enough for each child to make a pumpkin)
• A paper plate
• White paper
• Orange paint
• Paint brushes
• Green paint
• Black paint 

Pour a quarter sized drop of paint onto a paper plate.

Offer your little artists the corks, and encourage them to begin by stamping a circle shape with one color of orange paint.

Encourage the kids to now fill in the large outline of a circle by dipping their cork into orange paint and stamping it in.

When the pumpkin is filled in, dip the side of the cork into the green paint.

Slide the cork upwards to form a stem. 

Let the kids dot the stem with the wine cork.

Allow to dry and display on the fridge.

These are so cute and fun that you might want to make a few and share with a special neighbor or a grandparent.

Building Fine Motor Skills

Grasping a wine cork is a great way for little hands to develop the strength and dexterity needed for important tasks like writing and buttoning clothes. The wide, rounded surface is easy for children to hold, allowing them to focus on the creative process rather than struggling with grip.

Encouraging Exploration and Experimentation

Cork painting is all about having fun and getting messy! There's no right or wrong way to use a cork stamp. Kids can experiment with different dipping techniques, applying pressure to create lighter or darker prints, and even using multiple colors at once. This freedom to explore fosters a love of learning and experimentation, which are essential for a child's development.

Find more favorite cork painting projects here:

Cork and Button Apple Tree Art

Christmas Tree Stamp Painting

Hungry Caterpillar Process Art

Best USA Ski Resorts: Top Winter Destinations for Skiing and Snowboarding

 

The best ski resorts in the USA include iconic destinations such as Vail and Aspen, known for their diverse terrain and excellent facilities. Additionally, resorts like Tamarack Idaho offer unique experiences for skiers of all levels, making them worthy contenders for any skiing enthusiast's itinerary.

When searching for a memorable winter escape filled with thrilling downhill runs and breathtaking views, it's natural to wonder which ski resorts come out on top in the USA. The United States boasts a variety of premier ski destinations that promise an exceptional experience for both skiers and snowboarders alike, combining stunning landscapes with meticulously groomed slopes and state-of-the-art facilities.

Navigating through countless reviews and recommendations can be overwhelming. That’s why we’ve invested significant time and effort to curate a comprehensive guide showcasing standout resorts such as Vail in Colorado and Aspen Snowmass, among others. By considering various factors from terrain diversity to family-friendly amenities, we've ensured this guide will help you find a perfect destination that suits your needs.

Top U.S. Ski Resorts for Unmatched Winter Fun

Vail, Colorado, noted for its expansive terrain, truly sets a benchmark in the skiing world. With over 5,300 acres of skiable terrain, it accommodates skiers of all skill levels effortlessly. The renowned Back Bowls offer a thrilling backdrop for adventurous skiers, while the groomed runs are perfect for those just starting out. Vail's commitment to customer experience includes plentiful dining options and ski schools to help new skiers gain confidence. Remember to take advantage of their extensive lift system, which dramatically reduces wait times and enhances your day on the mountain!

Moving onto Aspen Snowmass, this resort boasts impressive diversity across its four interconnected mountains and serves as a social hub for celebrity sightings and exciting events. Each mountain presents its own character: from the challenging runs at Aspen Mountain to family-friendly terrain at Snowmass. Skiers can switch mountains as they please, providing unparalleled flexibility in one visit. Notably, Aspen’s vibrant downtown area adds another layer of experience with high-end restaurants and shops to explore after an exhilarating day on the slopes.

Families looking for a warm and welcoming atmosphere should turn their attention to Steamboat Springs. This resort features a delightful combination of small-town charm and significant skiing opportunities, making it ideal for families. The famed 'Champagne Powder' snow—light and fluffy—typically results in thrilling experiences on the slopes. For families with children, Steamboat offers dedicated areas designed specifically for learners and plenty of tree skiing that adds an extra thrill factor without being overly intimidating. There’s almost nothing like seeing children enjoy their first taste of skiing amidst such beauty.

Best Resorts for All Skill Levels

When planning a ski trip, it’s essential to select a resort that accommodates everyone from absolute beginners to seasoned experts. A balanced mix of terrain ensures that each member of your group can enjoy their time on the slopes without feeling overwhelmed or bored. Thus, places like Breckenridge stand out for their diverse offerings.

Breckenridge, Colorado

Breckenridge is renowned for its well-rounded approach to skiing. The scenic mountain features high alpine terrain while providing numerous beginner-friendly runs at lower altitudes. I recall my first family trip there; my children quickly transitioned from the bunny slopes to more challenging trails due to the variety available.

Alongside skiing, Breckenridge holds a charming town with shops and restaurants, ensuring that while ski enthusiasts carve down the mountainside, others can engage in delightful off-slope activities like ice skating or shopping.

Big Sky Resort, Montana

Moving north to Montana, Big Sky Resort is another fantastic destination known for its varied terrain. This resort features an impressive selection of runs designed for all abilities. For beginners, there are gentle greens that lay the groundwork for solid technique. Intermediate skiers can revel in expansive blue trails, while advanced skiers are often drawn to the challenging slopes around Lone Peak Tram area.

It's not uncommon to hear laughter echoing off the mountains as families explore various runs together, fostering both individual progress and shared memories.

Tamarack Resort, Idaho

Finally, consider Tamarack Resort in Idaho. If you seek a blend of accessibility and adventure, Tamarack truly shines ad the best skiing in Idaho. The meticulously maintained trails provide ideal conditions for those just learning how to ski—including samplings of easy greens and dedicated areas where beginners can comfortably hone their skills under expert guidance.

Meanwhile, seasoned skiers will appreciate the resort's advanced trails which weave through stunning landscapes filled with natural challenges and breathtaking scenery.

With thoughtful options tailored to different skill levels available at these resorts, there's a rich experience waiting for every skier. As you envision your upcoming winter getaway, think about how comfort and excitement combine seamlessly on the slopes and beyond.

Premier Amenities and Services

Sometimes, skiing is only half the fun; the other half is about luxury and comfort. Top-tier ski resorts understand this perfectly and therefore, they curate a comprehensive range of services designed to enhance your winter getaway. When you step into a premier resort, you're not just greeted with stunning mountain views—you're immersed in an experience that combines exhilaration with indulgence.

Five-Star Accommodations

Resorts such as Deer Valley in Utah and the Ritz-Carlton in Lake Tahoe exemplify five-star lodging that makes any visit unforgettable. Picture this: after an exhilarating day on fresh powder, you return to your room for a well-deserved rest. Your suite features breathtaking views, plush furnishings, and perhaps even a fireplace to unwind by. With offerings like ski-in/ski-out access, you can glide right onto the slopes from your doorstep. The culinary scene aims to please as well—gourmet dining captures local flavors while providing exquisite dining experiences that are simply unparalleled.

Seamless Ski Services

Efficiency matters in maximizing your time on the mountain. Services like ski valets ensure that your gear is handled with care and ready to go when you are. Imagine a world where you can simply hand off your skis at the base before heading into the warmth of a heated gondola, sipping hot chocolate as you ascend for another thrilling descent. On-mountain dining options add another layer of ease; picture enjoying a hot meal while taking in sweeping alpine vistas—all without needing to venture back down the mountain. Aspen Snowmass even raises the bar further with personalized concierge services catering to your unique needs—from arranging lessons to securing dinner reservations at top restaurants.

Colorado's Must-Visit Resorts

Keystone Resort

Among its many offerings, Keystone stands out for its night skiing, which allows you to bask in the glow of the slopes long after the sun has set. Imagine gliding down the mountain under a starry sky, with trails illuminated just enough to provide a surreal experience. This feature transforms the ordinary ski day into an extraordinary adventure. For those who love a challenge, skiing under the moonlight creates a different dynamic, where every turn feels more exhilarating.

Telluride Ski Resort

Nestled deep within the breathtaking San Juan Mountains, Telluride Ski Resort offers an enchanting combination of stunning landscapes and a quaint, historic town atmosphere. Unlike many bustling resorts, Telluride remains relatively uncrowded, providing visitors with tranquility often lost at larger destinations. The charming streets are lined with shops and eateries that reflect the character of this former mining town. Beyond skiing, immerse yourself in its history by strolling along vibrant Main Street, where echoes of the past come alive amid modern comforts.

Beaver Creek Resort

Renowned for its exceptional attention to detail, Beaver Creek takes guests' experiences to heart with exquisite amenities. The resort features heated walkways that keep visitors warm as they traverse from one location to another—small details that elevate comfort levels significantly. As if that wasn’t enough, Beaver Creek treats its skiers to complimentary chocolate chip cookies at key locations, providing a cozy feel reminiscent of home after a long day on the slopes. After carving down their impeccably groomed runs, that freshly baked cookie can be just what you need to finish off your day right—it enhances your overall experience by instilling a sense of warmth and welcome.

While Colorado’s resorts are legendary, other states offer equally intriguing options. Let's explore these captivating alternatives that promise their own unique charm and excitement on the slopes.

The Charm of Park City, Utah

Nestled in the Wasatch Range, Park City is not just a winter sports haven; it’s a town infused with history and community spirit. Its origins as a silver mining town during the 1800s lend it a rich heritage that permeates its architecture and local attractions. Strolling down Main Street, you'll notice charming historic buildings that now house boutique shops, art galleries, and eateries. This blend of history and modernity offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience local culture while enjoying world-class skiing.

Park City Mountain Resort

At the heart of this charming town is Park City Mountain Resort, which boasts an impressive 7,300 acres of skiable terrain. With runs ranging from beginner to expert, it's an ideal destination for families and seasoned skiers alike. The mountain itself features several parks and pipe areas for snowboarders, making every day on the slopes fresh and exciting. More than just skiing, the resort is home to excellent dining options and après-ski activities—perfect for unwinding after an exhilarating day on the mountain. Don't miss out on taking a scenic lift ride to soak in breathtaking views; it's one of those unforgettable experiences that truly captures the beauty of the region.

Deer Valley Resort

Just a short distance away lies Deer Valley Resort, a skier-only paradise famous for its impeccable service and perfectly groomed trails. This upscale resort tends to draw those who appreciate luxury alongside their outdoor adventures. From valet parking to stunning accommodations, Deer Valley excels at making every visitor's experience memorable. The dining options here are equally impressive—fine dining amidst the picturesque backdrop adds a touch of sophistication to your ski getaway. It's no wonder that many choose Deer Valley for celebratory weekends or special occasions.

Sundance Mountain Resort

Finally, don’t overlook Sundance Mountain Resort, owned by film legend Robert Redford. This resort feels like stepping onto a Hollywood movie set—its natural beauty exemplifies what many would imagine when thinking of mountain escapes. Known for its incredible scenery and laid-back vibe, Sundance attracts visitors looking for serene surroundings paired with outdoor adventure. In addition to skiing, it offers fantastic hiking opportunities in warmer months—making it ideal for those wanting year-round enjoyment.

Honey Mustard Magic: Instant Pot Pulled Pork Sandwiches

 Calling all sandwich lovers! Today, we're taking the classic pulled pork sandwich to a whole new level of flavor with the help of your trusty Instant Pot. This recipe features a sweet and tangy honey mustard sauce that infuses the tender pork with deliciousness in no time.

Instant Pot Advantage:

The Instant Pot is a game-changer for busy cooks. It allows you to achieve fall-off-the-bone pulled pork in a fraction of the time compared to traditional methods. Plus, the pressure cooker helps lock in all the juices, resulting in incredibly flavorful and moist meat.

Honey Mustard Harmony:

The honey mustard sauce is the star of the show. The perfect balance of sweet honey and tangy mustard creates a flavor profile that complements the richness of the pork beautifully. It's a flavor combination that's sure to tantalize your taste buds.

Building the Perfect Bite:

Now, let's talk about the sandwich itself. Pile that juicy pulled pork onto your favorite toasted buns. Add a creamy slaw for a touch of coolness and crunch. Don't forget a drizzle of extra honey mustard sauce for good measure.

Recipe:

Here's what you'll need to create these mouthwatering Honey Mustard Pulled Pork Sandwiches:

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder (butt roast)
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Hamburger buns
• Coleslaw (optional)
• Extra honey mustard sauce for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. Add the chicken broth, Dijon mustard, honey, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder to the inner pot of your Instant Pot. Stir to combine.
2. Season the pork shoulder generously with salt and pepper. Place it in the Instant Pot on top of the liquid mixture.
3. Close the lid and seal the pressure valve. Cook on high pressure for 70 minutes.
4. Once the cooking time is complete, let the pressure release naturally for 15 minutes. Then, carefully release any remaining pressure manually.
5. Remove the pork from the Instant Pot and shred it with two forks. Discard any excess fat.
6. Return the shredded pork to the pot with the remaining cooking liquid. Stir to coat the pork in the sauce.
7. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
8. Toast your hamburger buns. Pile the pulled pork onto the buns and top with coleslaw and extra honey mustard sauce (if desired).

Tips:

• For a thicker sauce, remove some of the shredded pork and set it aside. Bring the remaining sauce in the Instant Pot to a boil and simmer for a few minutes until it thickens slightly. Then, stir the shredded pork back in.
• Leftover pulled pork can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.

The Takeaway:

This Instant Pot Honey Mustard Pulled Pork Sandwich recipe is a flavor explosion waiting to happen. It's the perfect combination of easy, delicious, and satisfying. So, fire up your Instant Pot, whip up this recipe, and prepare to be amazed!

Find more favorite recipes here:

Foolproof Biscuits

Maple Brown Sugar Cookies

Instant Pot Peanut Butter Noodles

Four Ways To Make Halloween Fun For Your Family This Year

 Halloween can be a fun time of the year for all of the family. From dressing up to trick or treating, there are many ways that you can make this holiday exciting without it being too stressful or costly. Your family enjoys staying in for nice cozy activities, or they like to head out to drink and treat. 

Let's have a look at some of the easy ways you can make sure that Halloween is fun and packed full of memories this year: 

Have A Halloween Themed Movie Night 

A spooky movie night is a fantastic way to get into the spirit of Halloween together as a family. Get all your family together, make some popcorn, and choose a Halloween classic such as Hocus Pocus or Hotel Transylvania to create a cozy movie night with blankets and pillows. If you're feeling brave enough, you could even dim the lights to give your living room a bit of a spooky feel. Having some themed snacks such as Halloween cupcakes or toasted pumpkin seeds. If you have older children you can always watch a scarier film late in the evening too. 

Decorate Your Home 

Another great way to create a great atmosphere for Halloween is to transform your home into a mini haunted house. Get all of the family involved and decorate your front garden windows and living room with a few Halloween-themed items. You could even create some homemade decorations such as cutout bats, spooky lanterns, or paper ghosts. If you want to go the extra mile, you may even think about getting some outdoor inflatables to create a haunted garden display. Check out a Halloween store for all the latest trends and accessories.

Pumpkin Picking And Carving 

A great way to celebrate Halloween is to head out and go pumpkin picking at a local farm. Any farms now decorate and prepare their Farm for Halloween so that you can visit the pumpkin patch and experience a family-filled spooky day. Pumpkin carving is also a staple at Halloween, and it helps to bring the whole family together. Set up a carving station at home or set up a pumpkin painting station and decorate it with stickers.

DIY Halloween Costumes 

Rather than buying ready-made costumes from the shop, think about making your own. You can use all sorts from around your home. DIY costumes are great for children to get creative and for them to feel accomplished with piecing together their own outfit. 

For example, you could use an old bed sheet and turn it into a ghost. If you need some extra accessories, you might find a few things at a Halloween store for inspiration. 

Conclusion 

As you can see, there are many things that you can do to make Halloween fun for your family this year. Is there anything you would do? It would be great to hear about it in the comments below. 

Spooky Snacks and Sips for Halloween

Halloween night chills the air with anticipation, but it doesn't have to chill your taste buds! This year, conjure up a cauldron of culinary delights that are both wickedly fun and frightfully flavorful. From creepy crawly cocktails to spine-tingling snacks, let's transform your Halloween spread into a haunted haven for the senses.

Set the Stage:

Drape your table in cobweb-like cheesecloth, scatter plastic spiders amongst the treats, and dim the lights for an eerie ambiance. Flickering candles or orange string lights add an extra touch of spooky charm. Don't forget the spooky tunes! A playlist of monster mash-ups and Halloween classics will set the mood for a fang-tastic feast.

Be sure to click through the links to view the full recipes.

 Beetlejuice Buttercream Board by Fork to Spoon

This buttercream board is perfect for Halloween parties. Add cookies, pretzels, or whatever you would like to dip in buttercream to the border for a snack that packs a lot of variety into each bite.

Poison Apple Cocktails by Three Olives Branch

This apple cocktail is ghoulishly green but the fun doesn't stop there! It includes a test tube of cinnamon flavored ‘poison’ to add a dark kick. Who will be brave enough to add a poison shot to this drink on Halloween night?

Mexican Chocolate Skull Cakes by My Bueno Cookbook

These skull cakes are loaded with tasty Mexican chocolate for a snack to share that is spooky yet so sweet. Top them with blood red icing if you like or some berry jam!

Alien Brain Hemorrhage Shots by The Littlest Crumb

These shots are so much fun to assemble and slam with your friends. These are freaky, taste fantastic and are sure to make your guests feel just a little apprehensive about drinking them.

Death by Chocolate Cupcakes by Live to Sweet

These look like an average cupcake, so what is so scary about them? They are so good that you will be nothing short of horrified after the last cupcake has been enjoyed!

Bloody Bellinis by Garlic and Zest 

This recipe makes the best bellinis! Use a good champagne and fresh cherry juice to get a gorgeous, bloody effect that adds so much flavor to each sip.

Skull Pizzas by Kitchen at Hoskins

This recipe is a total scream! Slice this up for a spooky snack that is so easy to make and always gets a great reaction.

Incredible Hulk Cocktails by A Nerd Cooks

This drink is so much fun for Halloween, it is perfect for the Hulk to sip, but your friends will also love it! It is destined to be a smash at your party

Spooky Spider Dip by Two Healthy Kitchens

Use a favorite dip that always turns out thick, then dress it up with this idea. Pepper slices make the ultimate spider and this is one healthy snack no one can resist!

Elegant Yet Spooky Halloween Charcuterie by Sugar and Charm

This spread of snacks is perfect for a party. It is easy to assemble and with a few skeleton hands placed strategically, this is sure to send a shiver up your spine as you grab a nibble.

Smoking Halloween Punch by A Full Living

Add dry ice to this boozy punch for a fabulous smoking effect. This punch has rum, cranberry juice and apple cider to make a flavorful fall option that everyone will love.

Jack Skellington Dessert Board by A Country Girls Life

This dessert board has a great variety of treats to dip into Jack’s cute frosting face. Add an assortment of cookies, wafers and sweets that pair well with frosting.

Spiderweb Cocktails by Amanda’s Cooking

This spiderweb cocktail recipe is perfect for a Halloween party. It is not only tasty but it has the best web decoration on top of each drink.

Mummy Shortbread Cookies by Pass Me a Spoon

This mummy shortbread cookie is easy and perfect for a party. It is lightly sweet, so buttery and all dressed up in tasty frosting wrappings.

Purple People Eater Cocktails by Everyday Shortcuts

This vibrant purple cocktail is just the thing to make and serve your ghouls, goblins and guests on  Halloween night. Garnish with candy eyes for the complete effect.

Skull Charcuterie by Everyday Shortcuts

This idea makes the spookiest snack platter yet. Form a skull shape and add plenty of prosciutto for a meaty main offering that everyone will want to take a crack at.

Black Mojito by The Healthful Ideas

Give your next mojito night a freaky effect with this recipe. It has all of the flavor you crave with a creepy black look to it. Use activated charcoal for an easy way to spooky up your sips.

Remember, the key to a spooktacular Halloween spread is to have fun and unleash your creativity! With a little imagination, you can transform everyday ingredients into hauntingly delicious treats that will have your guests shrieking with delight (and maybe a little bit of fear). So gather your ingredients, put on your spookiest grin, and get ready to whip up a Halloween feast that will be remembered long after the last ghost has flown home.

Find more great Halloween ideas here:

Halloween Tree

Ghost Ornaments 

Pretzel Mummy Snacks

Strawberry Ghosts