This DIY Easter Centerpiece Doubles As Favors for Your BFFs

Cheep cheep — it’s almost Easter! I always see these adorable pipe cleaner chicks at the dollar store this time of year, and I cannot resist them. Talk about cute. Luckily, this year I had a plan in mind: BFF Easter egg favors! Inspired by the classic “Best Friends” necklaces from childhood, the eggs can be filled with sweet treats and given to your best chicks as mini gifts this Easter. Plus, arrange them as the centerpiece of the table and they’ll double as decor for Easter brunch.

Materials and Tools:

Instructions:

  1. Rip newspaper into strips (about 1/2 inch wide by 2 inches long works well) and soak in warm water. In a bowl, mix one part white glue and one part water together. Inflate the balloons and apply the glue mixture onto a section with a paintbrush. Remove newspaper strips from the water (wiping off excess water) and place onto the glue-covered balloon. Apply more glue on top, and continue in this way until the whole balloon is covered with three layers of newspaper. Let dry completely.
  2. Once dry, draw a jagged crack down the center of the paper maché egg and cut along the line with a craft knife. Remove the popped balloon and glue a small piece of newspaper over the hole left by the balloon knot.
  3. Paint the egg shells! Make sure to keep the matching tops and bottoms together — they can be tricky to tell apart, if you’re not careful. Paint the inside and outside of the egg; it may take a few coats. Let dry.
  4. Write on your eggs with colored permanent marker. We wrote “best friends” like the classic necklaces, but other fun options are “BFFs” or “best chicks.”

Rip newspaper into strips (about 1/2 inch wide by two inches long works well) and soak in warm water. In a bowl, mix one part white glue and one part water together. Inflate the balloons and apply the glue mixture onto a section with a paintbrush. Remove newspaper strips from the water (wiping off excess water) and place onto the glue-covered balloon. Apply more glue on top, and continue in this way until the whole balloon is covered with three layers of newspaper. Let dry completely.

Once dry, draw a jagged crack down the center of the paper maché egg and cut along the line with a craft knife. Remove the popped balloon and glue a small piece of newspaper over the hole left by the balloon knot.

Paint the egg shells! Make sure to keep the matching tops and bottoms together — they can be tricky to tell apart, if you’re not careful. Paint the inside and outside of the egg; it may take a few coats. Let dry.

Write on your eggs with colored permanent marker. We wrote “best friends” like the classic necklaces, but other fun options are “BFFs” or “best chicks.”

Best chicks for life!

Are you hosting an Easter brunch this spring? Share your pretty pastel table settings with us on Instagram using hashtags #iamcreative and #britstagram, and follow us on Pinterest for more holiday DIY inspo!

If you've been invited to an Easter potluck but haven't made an Easter side dish yet, have no fear. These unexpected, vibrant dishes are here to steal the show! From creamy casseroles and dips to seasonal soups and refreshing salads, there's something on this list that everyone will want a bite of. Choose from 41 delightful Easter recipes that work as appetizers too and savor an Easter Sunday with a feast for family and friends.

Baked Artichokes With Honey Whipped Feta

Dip these baked Panko-coated artichokes into a sweet and creamy honey-whipped feta cheese for all your spring holidays. Everyone's going to love it! (via Half Baked Harvest)

Cheesy Cabbage Casserole

Here us out on cabbage: when you bake this underrated veg with cheese and herbs, even kids will love it. (via The Edgy Veg)

Cream of Asparagus Soup

This perfect spring soup turns our favorite spring veg into the star of the show. It's full of fresh and vibrant flavors! (via The Girl On Bloor)

Roasted Golden Beet Salad With Farro

Roasted beets, farro, goat cheese, and crunchy almonds are a perfect side for a crowd and meal for everyday. (via Barley & Sage)

Toast with Oregano-Truffle Cream Cheese and Olive Oil Tossed Tomatoes

Inspired by breakfast in Barcelona, this simple recipe of toasted bread is topped with olive oil, tomato and oregano-truffle cream cheese is SO good. (via No Eggs And Ham)

Kale Stir Fry With Mushroom and Red Onion

Seasoned with balsamic vinegar and soy sauce, this simple and satisfying meal takes just 15 minutes. (via GastroPlant)

Cabbage And Peas

Add a pop of spring green to your table with this bright salad of cabbage and sweet peas. (via This Wife Cooks)

Southern Baked Mac And Cheese

If you're looking for classic, soul food on your Easter Sunday this creamy baked macaroni and cheese with a crusty top is the best! (via Pink Owl Kitchen)

Vegan Split Pea Soup

Creamy split green peas and golden potatoes made in a dutch oven is a delicious vegan meal.(via Veggie Society)

Cucumber Mint Yogurt Salad

This refreshing and creamy dish is super simple and requires just 5 minutes. Pair with toasty bread or crackers. (via Forks and Foliage)

Roasted Parmesan Potatoes

Crispy potatoes are always a crowd pleaser. These oven-roasted parmesan baby potatoes are a perfect as a side dish no matter what season. (via Feel Good Foodie)

Simple Charcuterie Board

Stand out from the potluck crowd with a gorgeous charcuterie board. Amanda Wilens shows you how to build one to impress. (via Amanda Wilens)

Focaccia Bread With Roasted Garlic And Olives

This focaccia has a rich olive oil flavor with sweet roasted garlic and kalamata olives to add briny contrast. (via A Spicy Perspective)

Korean Corn Cheese

Corn and mozzarella cheese makes for a delicious side that's also easy to make. (via Takes Two Eggs)

Grilled Peaches And Pimento Pizza

Bring the pizza party to the potluck with this seasonal dish you can grill or bake. (via The Edgy Veg)

Farro Salad With Peas And Feta

This light and delicious farro salad has peas, arugula, feta, and a juicy lemon dressing. (via Culinary Hill)

Zucchini Chips

Make chips for your favorite dip from zucchini and eggplant. (via Fancy Peasant)

Creamy Vegan Ricotta with Tofu

Spread this tofu-based ricotta dip on toast, in a pasta dish, as a dip, or even in a lasagna. It comes together in about 10 minutes! (via Simply Quinoa)

Hot Spinach Artichoke Dip

Loaded with flavor and so much cheese, this hot spinach and artichoke dip gets the Easter party started. (via Salt & Lavender)

Lemony Spring Pasta Salad

Gluten-free noodles absorb liquid more than regular pasta so keep some extra lemony dressing on the side of this springy pasta dish. (via RachL Mansfield)

Big Bang Cauliflower

Spicy, sweet, and incredibly easy to make, these bite-sized cauliflower bit are so good tossed in a homemade bang bang sauce. (via The Endless Meal)

Spinach and Ricotta Puff Pastry Pinwheels

This easy vegetarian appetizer recipe is made with creamy spinach, melty ricotta, salty parmesan, and earthy spinach wrapped up in flaky, buttery puff pastry. Sold! (via Cozy Cravings)

Truffle Beet Carpaccio With Pistachio And Capers

We never met a dish with capers we didn't like -- add sweet beets and arugula with the smokey marinade for a tastebud-satisfying treat. (via Chef Bai)

Vegan Caesar Salad

The vegan caesar dressing is made with tahini, lemon, and dijon mustard for a creamy, tangy, and refreshing salad. (via Two Spoons)

Mediterranean Layered Hummus Dip

Hummus topped with roasted pepper, chipotle, roasted garlic, and jalapeño cilantro is on a whole other level, so good! (via Live Eat Learn)

Prosciutto Ricotta Toast

Toasty bread topped with crispy prosciutto and creamy ricotta, lemon, honey, and basil is a side to add to your party rotation. (via Cilantro Parsley)

Find More Easter Side Dishes From Brit + Co:

Green Goddess Salad

If you're looking for a healthy side dish that still tastes amazing, then this Green Goddess salad is right up your alley. The dressing is full of lemon juice, cheese, rice vinegar, and garlic for a seriously tasty dish. (via Brit + Co)

Smoked Salmon Poke Bites

These bites work as a side dish to your entrée, or as an appetizer that you can snack on before the rest of the fam arrives for Easter dinner. You can totally customize these babies and remove or add any ingredients that you wish. (via Brit + Co)

Bite-Sized Eggs Benedicts

Even if you're not having an Easter brunch extravaganza, we're all about breakfast for dinner so we'll add these bites to our menu regardless. (via Brit + Co)

Crunchy Green Beans With Butter

Green beans might not seem like an exciting Easter side dish to bring to a potluck, but these will be a crowdpleaser. The original recipe makes enough for just four people, so adjust it accordingly. (via Brit + Co)

Crispy Smashed Potatoes With Pink Tahini Sauce

You can’t go wrong with crispy smashed taters, especially when they’re served with plenty of gooey brie cheese. (via Brit + Co)

Sweet Potatoes in a Blanket

Why serve crescent rolls solo, when you can stuff them with roasted sweet potato wedges, caramelized onion, and cheese? (via Brit + Co)

Roasted Broccoli

If you’re feeding a crowd of picky eaters with different dietary needs, this tasty Easter side dish is a must; it’s vegan, paleo, and Whole30-friendly. (via Brit + Co)

Steamed Artichoke With Garlic Butter

If someone in your crew claims that they aren’t into vegetables, the dreamy garlic butter that's used for dunking this steamed artichoke might just be a turning point for them. They'll thank you after they've devoured this whole Easter side dish. (via Brit + Co)

DIY Potato Salad

The herbs make found in this potato salad make it spring-ready. It's also a great option for all your spring picnics and summer barbecue get togethers. (via Brit + Co)

Portia's Green Soup

We've been dreaming about this Bridgerton-inspired recipe, and we're pretty sure you will be too. Avocado, cucumber, and chives give 'refreshing' a whole new meaning. (via The Unofficial Bridgerton Cookbook/Brit + Co)

Easter Side Dishes That Taste Good All Year Long:

Keto Cheesy Brussels Sprouts With Bacon

This hearty Easter side dish is as easy as it is delicious. After all, everything is better with bacon and plenty of cheese sauce. (via Brit + Co)

Greens & Citrus Salad With Tahini-Ginger Dressing

With plenty of veg and flavorful add-ins, this salad is clearly too legit; too legit to quit. (via Season: A Year of Wine Country Food, Farming, Family, & Friends/Brit + Co)

Mashed Cauliflower Purée

Cauliflower has become an Easter side dish fave, and this garlicky recipe only gives us reason to keep the momentum going. (via Brit + Co)

Cheesy, Garlic-Roasted Asparagus

Fact: No one is going to pass up a vegetable that tastes like garlic bread...or that's covered in cheese. (via Brit + Co)

Scallion and Greek Yogurt Slow-Cooker Mashed Potatoes

Despite its intricate, show-stopping appearance, it’s surprisingly easy to put together thanks to your slow-cooker. (via Brit + Co)

Follow us on Pinterest and subscribe to our email newsletter for more Easter side dishes and spring recipes!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by other, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

This post has been updated.

There’s a newcomer in Trader Joe’s skincare section, and it’s already sending fans into a frenzy! Said to be a solid dupe of the ever-popular Sol de Janeiro Delícia Drench Body Butter, this limited-time TJ’s product goes for just $7, but shoppers say it’s still as rich, hydrating, and fragrant.

Read on for more info on this latest Trader Joe’s beauty drop!

Trader Joe's

The new find is none other than the Ultra Rich Body Butter, a “mega-moisturizer” that Trader Joe’s says is designed to “deeply hydrate and restore your skin’s natural glow.”

Reddit

Its formula is packed with plenty of shea butter, along with nourishing coconut oil, passion fruit seed oil, hyaluronic acid, and Copaiba resin to really help target dry skin. The formula is touted to be extra creamy and thick, all while boating a warm vanilla orchid scent.

Sephora

Trader Joe’s shoppers were super quick to compare the all-new Ultra Rich Body Butter to one of Sol de Janeiro’s body care products, the Delícia Drench Body Butter.

When one TJ’s fan asked about the product’s scent on Reddit, one user noted that “it smells like a clean floral vanilla but not heavy on any of those in particular if that makes sense. It actually reminds me a lot of Sol De Janeiro 59 scent if you've ever smelled that.”

Another Redditoralso dared to compare the two products: “I bought 2 today! It really does smell like Sol de Janeiro Delicia body butter but way thicker.”

Reddit

Aside from the scent of the Ultra Rich Body Butter, Trader Joe’s shoppers who’ve tried the product are loving the texture of it. A few fans on Reddit sounded off about the thick formula:

“Shockingly, it ABSORBS really well!” one person said.

“Once on, it soaks in, hydrates well and has a pleasant, light scent that lasts too,” another user commented.

Sephora

While one 8.1-ounce tub of Sol de Janeiro’s Delícia Drench Body Butter goes for $48, the new Trader Joe’s body butter costs just $7 for 8 ounces.

Wowza! We can’t wait to get our hands on this new find.

Subscribe to our newsletter to discover more fan-fave Trader Joe's products!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Tasty seasonal produce, pastel color palettes, andoutdoor-entertaining weather make spring the ideal time of year to whip up creative desserts for Easter and beyond! It's no wonder that sweets like rainbow cakes and desserts made withEaster candyare some of our favorite Easter dessert ideas to make. From cakes to cookies to pies and even donuts, here are 51 show-stopping, party-worthy Easter dessert recipes(some are vegan and gluten-free, too!) for a blissfully sweet holiday.

Chick Sandwich Cookies

We didn't think we could love Easter cookies more than we already do, but these babies are too cute for words. They're festive, colorful, and delicious — what's not to love about Easter dessert ideas like this?! (via Brit + Co)

Gilded Watercolor Funfetti Easter Eggs

Small cake bites sound like our kind of Easter dessert recipe. An egg-shaped mold will help the cake keep its shape, and you can use a wet sponge to help get that watercolor design. The more colorful, the better! (via Brit + Co)

Rainbow Funfetti Ice Cream Cake

Every single part of this dessert is one of our favorite things. We are so on board! Put these sweets together for the ultimate Easter dessert recipe, birthday party, or summer barbecue treat. (via Brit + Co)

S’mores Peeps

Turn regular ol' s'mores into brightly colored sandwiches with chocolate-dipped graham crackers, sprinkles, and pastel-hued Peeps. It doesn't get much better than this. (via Brit + Co)

Mini Rainbow Donuts

Make your dessert as colorful as your dyed Easter eggs with some rainbow (!!!) donuts. Achieve the striped design by squirting a bit of different colored batter side by side in the donut molds. (via Brit + Co)

Pastel Peanut Butter Cups

Peanut butter cups get an Easter makeover with some white chocolate candy melts. See how many different pastels you can find to make this dessert as colorful as possible! (via Brit + Co)

Piña Colada Cake

There may not be a better dessert for an outdoor Easter party than this one. With dark rum and crushed pineapple, it's a tropical take on classic coconut cake. (via Brit + Co)

Easter Egg Truffles

Forget everything your parents said about not eating too much sugar. These cream egg truffles, wrapped in a chocolate-cookie mixture, are worth every bite. Just try not to eat them all before you can share them as an Easter dessert. (via Brit + Co)

Mini Carrot Cake Cookie Sandwiches

This carrot cake take on whoopie-pie comes together with two airy cookies sandwiched together by a yummy cream cheese frosting. (via Brit + Co)

Ube Coconut Cake

Coconut and ube are the best flavor combo for spring, and the light purple hue of this coconut cake only ups the ante when it comes to Easter desserts. (via Brit + Co)

Cherry-Chocolate Covered Donuts

We don't need Valentine's Day as an excuse to whip up a batch of these insanely tasty donuts. Just be sure to swap the heart decorations for flowers to hit your Easter desserts on the mark! (via Brit + Co)

Peeps Rice Krispies Eggs

Your Peeps-loving pals won't be able to get over how lovely these Peeps Rice Krispies eggs are! The mock-egg shells are made from melted white chocolate coated with a layer of glitter sprinkles, then adorned with real Peeps for an on-theme Easter treat. (via Brit + Co)

Peeps Skillet Dip

If you know someone who doesn't love Peeps, make this s'mores-like dip for them, and they'll definitely be a convert. Create a rainbow-like striped pattern or go crazy and mix up the colors all over the pan for this Easter dessert. (via Brit + Co)

Chocolate Banana Bread Mug Cake

Chocolate chunks take this banana mug cake to a whole new level of delicious, but the true reason this Easter dessert is a winner is that it only takes five minutes to make. (via Brit + Co)

Creme Egg Rocky Road Bars

Milk chocolate, marshmallows, mini eggs, and crushed cookies make the most beautiful Easter-themed mess you've ever seen. (via Brit + Co)

No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecakes

This Easter dessert is clearly a great option for anyone who loves strawberries, and is a great way to indulge in something sweet without committing to making a huge cheesecake. (via Brit + Co)

Easter Bunny Donuts

Finally, a socially-acceptable way to eat only chocolate for breakfast! If you don't have a donut pan handy, that's okay; you can make Easter bunny muffins instead! Just use a melon baller or small spoon to make room for the tiny candy eggs. (via Brit + Co)

Mini Cherry Pies

Hand pies are a gal's best friend, especially since you can fit one (or a couple) directly in your purse. Pick floral, egg, or rabbit cookie cutters to make the presentation more seasonal for Easter. (via Brit + Co)

Key Lime Pie Bars

Anything Easter-related deserves edible flowers. Not only is this Easter dessert recipe flavorful and cute, but it will also take you less than half an hour, which gives you more time for relaxing with the family. Yes, please! (via Brit + Co)

Vanilla Tiramisu Cake

Classic tiramisu features ladyfingers soaked in strong coffee, and this recipe gives that a bit of an update with coffee-soaked cake crumbs and a cocoa powder topping. Add some dark chocolate shavings and pastel sprinks on top if you're feeling really fancy. (via Brit + Co)

Lucky Charms Ice Cream

We know that Lucky Charms can be considered more of a St. Patrick's Day staple, but they make for an excellent year-round ice cream mix-in. Or you can just swap for your favorite cereal instead! (via Brit + Co)

Spring Pastel Confetti Cake

Even if your flowers aren't in full bloom yet, this colorful cake will compensate. Cutting into this beauty is like an explosion of springtime — and it's scrumptious to boot! (via Brit + Co)

Chocolate Egg Nests

This fun-for-kids treat uses vermicelli noodles and chocolate to make adorable bird nests to hold all their Easter sweets. (via Feel Good Foodie)

Layered Banana Pudding Cake

Top Southern-style cake with creamy pudding, fresh bananas, whipped cream, and vanilla wafers for an Easter dessert that's sure to please everyone 'round the table. (viaA Spicy Perspective)

Vegan Cadbury Creme Eggs

Here's a plant-based version of your favorite chocolatey Easter eggs! It’s gluten-free, dairy-free, and egg-free so those with allergies can enjoy!(via The Edgy Veg)

Easter Bunny Oreo Ice Cream Cake

This cake wins when it comes to Easter desserts. Use a store-bought ice cream cake so you can focus on homemade decorations, like a coconut-covered ice-cream bunny tush and carrots made of candy melts! (via The Suburban Soap Box)

Nut-Free Funfetti Protein Cookies

These fun-loving cookies are made with sunflower butter, but can also be made with peanut or almond butter, too. No matter which direction you take, they're sure to become one of the best Easter desserts you've ever made. Plus, they have a nice, healthy kick to 'em. (via The Girl on Bloor)

No-Bake Mango Cheesecake

This fresh, light no-bake cheesecake will satisfy your sweet tooth and give your oven a break between courses. The fruitiness definitely speaks to the spring season, and is super fitting for Easter desserts! (via Takes Two Eggs)

Schaum Torte

Whip up this German equivalent of a Pavlova topped with fresh fruit, whipped cream, or ice cream for a fresh take on those more classic Easter desserts. (via Culinary Hill)

Honey Lavender Cupcakes

These pretty purple cupcakes are infused with lavender flavor and topped with a sweet honey frosting for a seasonal taste. the light floral notes will complement spring with ease! (viaBarley & Sage)

Cardamom and Rose Palmiers

Make these floral pastries with a hint of spice using store-bought puff pastry sheets for a quick and easy Easter dessert! (via Signature Concoctions)

Vegan S'mores Cheesecake

Combine your two favorite desserts in vegan variety made with plant-based marshmallows, a Cocoa Pebbles crust, decadent chocolate filling, and crispy graham cracker swirls. (via No Eggs or Ham)

Fun Easter Dessert Ideas To Make This Year

Carrot Cake Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

These carrot cake-inspired cookies are soft and delicious and made from carrot cake mix, so they're easy too! Easter desserts can be *just* as good when you use the store-bought stuff, we swear! (via Salt & Lavender)

Pie Bar

Amanda Wilens shares a host of pie recipes to choose from in these adorable ideas for a crowd!

Easter Basket Milkshake

Hollow chocolate bunnies can hold a surprisingly vast amount of liquid, which is convenient, since you'll want to slurp this vanilla Peeps milkshake out of one for eternity. This has gotta be one of the most unique Easter desserts we've ever seen! (via Salty Canary)

Flower Cupcake Bouquet

We know, we know — this Easter dessert is way too pretty to eat. Well, maybe we'll have just one. This makes for a great gift in addition to an Easter recipe! (via See Vanessa Craft)

Spring Confetti Bars

The more colorful you can make the toppings on these Easter-y confetti bars, the better. With a light vanilla flavor and tons of candy-coated sweetness, these bars are sure to please a crowd. (via Chelsea's Messy Apron)

Egg-Shaped Sprinkle Cookies

Who doesn't love a sugar cookie? Use your fave recipe and a cookie cutter to shape these into eggs and add multicolored sprinkles to make them pop! (via Sprinkle Bakes)

Fresh Biscuit Strawberry Shortcake

This sweet Easter dessert recipe also works as a treat-filled breakfast for when you want some sugar in your life! (via Cozy Cravings)

Cream Cheese Swirled Coconut Tres Leches Cake

Photo via Tieghan Gerard of Half Baked Harvest

This bundt cake is proof that if you combine three delicious desserts into one, you're likely to end up with a winner. The coconut-y cream cheese running through the center, as well as the sweet coconut glaze, infuses each bite with extra moisture and richness. (via Half Baked Harvest)

The Whole Family Will Love These Easter Desserts

Bird’s Nest Cupcakes

Chirp, chirp! A nest of toasted coconut allows these homemade birdies to roost in sweet, sweet style. (via Cooking Classy)

Hummingbird Cupcakes

This Southern classic flavored with banana, pineapple, pecans, and warm spices is perfect Easter desserts. (via Pink Owl Kitchen)

Vegan + Gluten-Free Nutty Cookies

Made with walnuts or pecans, these nutty cookies pack a flavor punch with a little lemon, apricot jam, and powdered sugar. (via Veggie Society)

Vegan Samoa Macaroons

It's Samoa season! Serve up this delightful vegan version of your fave Girl Scout cookies. (via Munching with Mariyah)

Kataifi (Almond and Walnut Pastry)

Want to get creative with your Easter desserts? Try this crunchy and sweet Greek dessert made with drips of honey, sugar and lemon. (via Fancy Peasant)

Tahini Brownies

The nutty-flavored tahini gives these gooey, fudgey brownies a delightful twist, just in time for Easter. You could even go crazy and add some chocolate eggs for decor! (via Forks & Foliage)

Vegan Snickerdoodle Cake

Pair this vegan dessert with coffee or tea and, you have a sweet Easter breakfast, too! (via This Wife Cooks)

Easter Popcorn

Salty popcorn and pretzels are made addictively sweet with candy, white chocolate chips, and tons of sprinkles in this Easter dessert recipe. (via Home Made Lovely)

Healthier Copycat Reese's Eggs

Make this classic with dates, creamy peanut butter, coconut flour and dark chocolate for a delicious vegan and gluten-free version of the best Easter candy around. (via Rachel Mansfield)

Chocolate Easter Nests

These bird's nest cookies are made with dried chow mein noodles and chocolate... brilliant! (via The Endless Meal)

Sugar Cookie Easter Nests

A pinch of coconut on top of these cookies toasts up nicely in the oven, giving each one the appearance of Easter grass. Since their buttery flavor is so versatile, you can enjoy filling them with chocolate eggs and much more. (via Lovely Little Kitchen)

Follow us on Pinterest and check out our email newsletter for more Easter desserts!

This post has been updated.

Admit it: you rolled your eyes when your friend talked about scoring tickets to see Beyoncé'sRenaissance tour or Taylor Swift's The Eras Tour. You've probably even looked at her sideways when she's shared she pays 50% of her household bills because you don't think modern women should do that.

Whatever your reasoning is, you're aware that you have a habit of judging how your friend spends money and feel like you should stop. But friends shouldn't lie to each other, right? Eh, we've yet to see lying in relationships produce healthy results, but overstepping boundaries is just as worse. This is especially true if your friend doesn't always ask for your financial opinions.

Want to know why you keep doing it even though you're making your friend uncomfortable? Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Navjot "Navi" Hughesof Empower Mental Health has a few hints so pull up a chair to see what gives!

4 reasons you're lowkey obsessed with how your friends spend money

Jayda Anderson

1. You're using money as a way to compare yourself to your friend.

Seeing it worded like this sounds harsh and is sure to illicit the following responses:

  1. "Are you kidding me? I'd never do that!"
  2. "There's no comparison between my friend and I. I love them too much to do that."
  3. "It's not like I'm hurting my friend when I try to give them advice."

Even if you're not proud of it, there's a reason why comparison feels a embedded. Hughes says you're zeroing in on your friend's finances because of your "mindset." She further explains, "...we compare because money either separates you or brings you together. It's a social comparison because it's one of the most powerful tools to create the life you desire." This checks out if you and your friend are always talking about the kind of futures you want.

Here's the clincher: Hughes says, "Some are motivated by others, and some become jealous and hopeless."

Tima Miroshnichenko

2. The childhood lessons you learned about money are on full display.

Did you grow up hearing "money doesn't grow on trees" or "Anyone who doesn't save their money is being wasteful?" You may not think about it, but plays a role in how you look at other people's habits. Hughes says, "...judgment comes from our social upbringing. Some people have a scarcity mindset, so they hoard all their money." This could explain why you're less likely to spend money on things you consider frivolous while thinking your friend who does has lost a grip on reality.

The other side of this is being in a position where you didn't have to worry about money growing up. "If you are from a wealthier family, you know that money is a tool that flows." But, you're not off the hook from having negative opinions about others. You could still "judge others for not being smart and investing their money," according to Hughes.

Shaunna Levy

3. You may be jealous of your friend or annoyed with their complaints.

You can adore your friend while envying them for having the luxury to do whatever they want with their money. It's not to say they're truly in the position be carefree, but their ability to believe they'll be okay no matter what may make you see green. Then again, you may resent your friend for complaining about financial hardships they're in because of bad choices.

Like Hughes has mentioned earlier, there's so many reasons why everyone judges each other. She reiterates, "Usually, it's a place of jealousy," and it can show up differently based on your friend's circumstances.

"If your friends travel and you can't afford it, it creates discontent," she uses as an example, but "if your friends complain about not having money and bad spending habits, you may be annoyed and frustrated because their habits don't align with their perceived values," she adds.

Kaboompics.com

4. You're unable to handle the same criticism you're dishing out.

It's easy to judge others for doing something we think isn't right, but it's harder to accept the same vein of criticism. Hughes says people who consistently critique their friends' spending habits wouldn't have a hard time paying attention to their own choices if they were genuinely seeking "expert guidance on how to manage money instead of avoiding it."

For example, you could feel envious of the friend who has a good relationship with money while you're always spending it as soon as you get paid. "Some people cannot hold on to cash because they don't feel they deserve it. It's the subconscious programming that prevents them from making changes," says Hughes.

Emma Ripperdan

Here's what to do if you're truly concerned about your friend's finances

Approach the topic delicately

Sometimes we love to pose aggressive interventions with our friends because we "know" them. While this may work in some cases, it could backfire if you're adding to the guilt they're already feeling.

"If they ask for feedback or they complain in a moment, you can get curious and ask questions that allow them to realize their mistakes," suggests Hughes. Don't go thinking this is your shining moment to make your friend change, however.

"Ultimately, it's up to that person to receive feedback. If they don't want the input, it's best not to express your opinion as it doesn't impact you..." Hughes remarks.

Pavel Danilyuk

Here's how to set a firm boundary with a friend who can't keep their opinions to themselves

If you've found yourself on the receiving of constant opinions about how you spend money, we know you're annoyed. We're irritated for you because invasive questions or thoughts about money can ruin a longstanding friendship!

You can say something like, "While I appreciate your concerns, I will figure this out". You must take control of the conversation and be assertive if others are crossing a boundary. This usually reflects a lack of boundaries in relationships beyond finances- so chances are your relationship already lacks boundaries.

Need more money tips? You'll love browsing our articles about budgeting, saving money, and more!

Keeping our minds sharp becomes just as important as maintaining our physical health when we get older.

But while memory, concentration, and mental clarity can decline with age, the good news is that the brain remains extremely adaptable and can still benefit from consistent mental exercises.

So, just like how you hit the gym and work out your muscles to stay fit, you can participate in activities that strengthen your cognitive abilities, too. Whether you want to improve your memory or simply stay mentally agile, here are eight mental exercises that will help keep you sharp.

These are the 8 best mental exercises to keep your mind sharp!

1. Play Card Games

cottonbro studio

A study conducted in 2015 showed that regularly playing cards can actually increase brain volume in various regions, which is linked to improved cognitive functions like memory and critical thinking.

Not to mention, card games are a great way to boost focus, hone your decision-making skills, and connect with other players. Some popular favorites you can try out include poker, crazy eights, hearts, bridge, and gin rummy.

2. Strengthen Your Trivia Knowledge

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Are you more of a "Jeopardy!" or "Family Feud" person? Regardless, trivia is an excellent way to exercise your brain and learn more across a wide variety of topics. The best part is that you can play solo or in a group.

Download a trivia app on your phone, hit up a trivia night at local bars or cafes, or play some trivia board games with friends or family. Participating in trivia regularly may improve both short-term and long-term memory retention.

3. Build Jigsaw Puzzles

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From simple 100-piece images to more complex 1,000-piece works of art, puzzles are more than just a way to relax. They're also a great mental workout.

Building jigsaw puzzles has been shown to activate multiple cognitive functions, such as spatial reasoning, visual processing, and problem-solving, all of which are critical for preserving brain health as we mature.

4. Venture Off The Beaten Path

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When we stick to the same routines day in and day out, our brains can get pretty complacent. Try shaking things up and stepping outside of your comfort zone by challenging your mind.

For instance, taking a different route to work is a small habit switch that can have a surprising impact on cognitive function. You'll be forcing your brain to adapt to new environments or processes and stimulating areas responsible for memory, problem-solving, and spatial awareness.

5. Play An Instrument

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If you've ever wanted to learn how to play an instrument, there's never been a more perfect time. Again, since the brain is adaptable and continues forming new connections throughout your life, you can develop new skills at any age.

Plus, picking up an instrument requires concentration, coordination, and memory, making it a stellar brain exercise.

6. Learn A Foreign Language

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You can reap significant cognitive benefits from learning a foreign language as well. Research suggests that being bilingual can actually enhance creativity, memory, and visual-spatial skills. It even makes it easier to switch between tasks and may help delay mental decline.

The best part? It's never too late to get started. There are plenty of language-learning apps available right on your smart device. Otherwise, visit a local class to connect with others who are also picking up a new language.

7. Teach Someone Else A Skill

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It's one thing to learn a new skill; it's another to teach it to someone else. Not only will it reinforce your own knowledge, but it'll deepen your understanding further.

When you explain a concept or technique to another person, you have to break it down, identify key steps, and correct mistakes along the way. This helps solidify your grasp on the topic at hand while bolstering your memory.

8. Meditate

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Finally, daily meditation does more than merely calm your mind or reduce stress. Regular practice may also improve memory and increase your brain's capacity to process information more efficiently.

All you have to do is take a few moments each day to focus on your breathing and clear your mind.

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