This year, make small resolutions that will boost your overall happiness!

Practice gratitude.

Note three things you're grateful for every day before going to bed. It’s nice to reflect on what we have, rather than always thinking about what we don’t. Enjoy the little things!

Reach out to loved ones.

Even if you can’t see them in person, it’s always nice to connect with the people you care about. Make a quick phone call to friends or relatives you haven’t seen in a while, write someone a long email, or even an old-fashioned letter sent by mail. It’s a little gesture that goes a long way.

Take the time to disconnect.

Set aside some time every day where you switch your electronic devices off and give yourself some breathing space. Read a book, do some coloring, or work on your gratitude journal.

Wintertime offers so many great pastimes!

Skating or skiing. A great way to enjoy some fresh air, and stay active at the same time!

Building a snowman. Why not make a whole family of them? Something to look forward to after the first big snowfall!

Sledding. Slip into your snowsuit, and join the kids for an afternoon of fun.

Warming up by the fire. After spending time outside, curl up by the fire with some hot cocoa and Smartfood® Indulgence popcorn.

Keep the food simple: Sometimes, the most delicious dishes are the easiest to pull off! Choose recipes you’ve tried at least once before.

Bring out the decorations: A little effort goes a long way when adding holiday touches to your home. The internet is a goldmine for inspiration!

Remember the lighting and music: Both are key elements to creating a festive mood.

Get your guests involved: Ask people attending to bring a dessert or appetizer to share. You’ll cut your prep time in half!

Don’t forget to have fun: Planning and hosting a holiday party can get quite stressful, so try to breathe, and remember to have a good time!
 

Cold winter days are meant for getting cozy and relaxing at home!

Take a bubble bath. It’ll warm you up, relax your muscles, and help you decompress from your day.

Get cozy by the fire. Curl up with a warm throw with a good book or a cup of herbal tea, and enjoy the heat!

Bake something. Cooking and baking are great ways to relax!

Diffuse essential oils. Many diffusers emit a lovely light which can help create a calming mood, and the essential oils will help you relax.

Light some candles. Scented candles will help create a relaxing, cozy atmosphere.

Drink some hot cocoa. So tasty and comforting!

Decorate pumpkins for Halloween:It doesn’t need to be a messy affair-check online for inspiration!

Go apple picking: Why not invite Grandma and Grandpa, too? It’s a great activity for the whole family!

Make easy artwork using fall leaves: Have the kids glue them to construction paper in a fun design, and voilà!

Paint some pine cones and decorate:Take the pine cones your kids have painted and put them in a hurricane vase to use as a centerpiece for Thanksgiving.

Pick fall flowers like sunflowers:Then, place them in a vase to decorate.

From your corner bodega to family restaurants and all the little shops that give our communities so much character, there’s a ton of ways you can support your local businesses. 

And right now, they need you more than ever! Instead of shopping at big box stores, here are four simple ways you can show your support. 

Spread the word on social media

Give them a free boost of publicity by posting about them on social media, so all your friends and family know it’s worth a visit! 

Do some early holiday shopping

The holidays may seem far away, but now is the best time to cross a few people off your list with great gifts from local businesses who will appreciate your support. On top of helping them thrive, you’ll thank yourself come December for being ahead of the game!

Talk to the owners

Entrepreneurs pour their hearts and souls into their businesses, and they always make time for their regulars. Get to know the people behind your favorite shops and eateries, and ask them if there’s any unique way you can show your support. 

Eat local 

It should come as no surprise that one of our favorite ways to support local businesses is by eating some great food! Family-run restaurants need your hungry help, so don’t be afraid to treat yourself to an extra night of take-out or celebratory dinner on the town