Keto-Friendly Ricotta Chicken Meatballs Recipe FTW

Host a Candy Cane Lane party with this sweet and colorful backdrop. (via Etsy)

Dried Orange Garland

String dried oranges with twine for garlands, attach them to gifts, or use them as natural ornaments on your tree.

Festive Charcuterie Board

Serve up the most festive charcuterie board with gingerbread, pomegranate, chocolate, rosemary, and candy canes!

Create a Christmas Tree Arch for your photo backdrop with real or artificial garland.

Buy or DIY these adorable cups for your holiday party. (via My Mind's Eye)

Dress up your tree for a very demure, very mindful holiday party. (via Etsy)

Bring a little dance floor vibe to your holiday door with this disco wreath. (via Brit + Co)

If you’re looking for a colorful, swoon-worthy backdrop for your dessert table, you can’t go wrong with a wall covered in honeycomb shapes. How pretty are those jewel tones with pops of gold? (via Sugar & Cloth)

Instead of Santa or reindeer, turn your tree into an homage to everything awesome about the ’90s, including Koosh balls (‘member those?). (via Aww Sam)

This tribute to our fave legal blonde is now our new favorite holiday decoration. Invite some friends over, and make one together! (via Brit + Co)

Foil-wrapped chocolates will make these pretty trees the main attraction. Line them up along the mantel or use them as an inexpensive table centerpiece at your holiday dinner. (via Brit + Co)

DIY queens will love the idea of putting their own spin on ornaments. Stock up on plain glass balls at the dollar store and let your friends have a blast coming up with holiday puns. They can then take their handiwork home at the end of the night as a fun party favor. (via Brit + Co)

Peace, love, and peppermint! These candy cane gift boxes are a breeze to put together. Fill ’em with chocolate truffles dunked in pink chocolate and sprinkled with crushed candy canes. (via Brit + Co)

A disco ball tree beats vacuuming up pine needles any day. It’s bold, it’s glam, and it’s actually pretty easy to put together. (via Studio DIY)

Glass Ball Terrariums

Fill these glass ball ornaments with pine stems, snow, gift bows, even sprinkles for your festive decor!

Marble backdrop with tiny packages full of goodies? Now you’re well on your way to counting down to Santa’s arrival in style. (via Brit + Co)

Don’t forget the hot chocolate! You need all the fixings, though: marshmallows, whipped cream, sprinkles, and even a little caramel drizzle. (via PMQ for two)

Let these beauties bounce across the floor, bunch them together for a photo shoot, or hang them on your porch. (via Studio DIY)

Decorate your tree with gold stars, red ribbon, and soft sage leaves for an extra pop of texture. Then follow this DIY to recreate the soft pastel ombre ornaments. So pretty. (via A Kailo Chic Life)

Channel warm holiday vibes with this crafty ornament. (via Club Crafted)

It doesn’t get much more festive than a bar cart full of presents and gold barware. Layered garlands and mini bottle brush trees create punchy decor accents for any holiday get-together.(via Sugar & Cloth)

Give that punch bowl set you found at the thrift store a new lease on life with metallic paints. (via Design Improvised)

Don’t pass up a chance to put a fresh spin on this party staple. Just add gumdrops, candy wheels, and sugar dust! (via Studio DIY)

No need for a tree when you have this festive cactus tree! (via Sugar & Cloth)

String these on the tree, hang them across the mantel, or use them as a photo booth prop. These light bulb garlands can do it all. The best part is that you can totally customize the colors! (via Studio DIY)

Round up a group of friends for a spur-of-the-moment holiday wrap party. Make sure to get plenty of tape at the store, then warm up your printer and go crazy with this tropical-themed gift wrap. (via Studio DIY)

Simple, colorful, and DIY — all of our favorite things! This easy balloon backdrop will transform any blank wall — and the tree! — into a breathtaking party scene. (via A Kailo Chic Life)

Deck out your bar cart for the holidays with some swag and swap out your wine glasses for something gilded to show off your signature Christmas cocktail. (via Brit + Co)

It’s not a party until the confetti shows up. Pop the bubbly, then pop these DIY confetti cannons to kick off your bash in style. (via Brit + Co)

THEME IDEAS

If you’re going with good old-fashioned snail mail this season, nothing beats a handwritten holiday card. Throw a party dedicated to hand-lettered addresses and actual stamp-licking. Check out the Brit + Co x Moonpig Holiday Collection too! (via Brit + Co)

Skip the grand festivities in favor of a cozy night in with the people you love. Order in pizza, break out the Trader Joe's wine, and get ready to share some hilariously weird and wacky gifts. (via Brit + Co)

Give everyone a reason to wear their cute holiday sweaters without needing to shop for something they'll never wear again. (via Brit + Co)

Gift Wrap Gathering

Grab your besties for a night of warm cocoa, gift wrapping, and holiday festivities at your house. Stock up on pretty wrapping paper and cool DIY gift toppers for a fun gift wrapping extravaganza.

Turn your tree lighting into the main event. Invite your pals over for coffee and cocktails, then get your decorating on by DIYing a few baubles. You can even ask everyone to bring one DIY ornament with a prize for the most creative! (via Brit + Co)

@k.ard Medicine Ball for only $1.69 each! #medicineball#fluseason#coldseason#starbucksdupe#budgettok#SephoraConcealers#DrPepperTuitionContest#halloween#fall2022♬ Halloween - KenZie DarkStar

TikTok always makes recipes look effortless. So, I took this trusty tutorial into our own hands to compare how good an at-home Medicine Ball could really be against the real one from Starbucks.

Ingredients for the Starbucks Medicine Ball Drink

• Teavana Peach Tranquility Tea Bags
• Teavana Jade Citrus Mint Tea Bags
• Honey
• Lemonade

How can I make a Medicine Ball at home?

1. Heat 1 cup of lemonade in the microwave for 45 seconds to a minute.
2. Add 1 cup of hot water and stir in 1 tablespoon honey.
3. Add one bag of Peach Tranquility and one bag of Jade Citrus Mint, then steep for a few minutes.
4. Enjoy your Medicine Ball!

How I Made The Starbucks Medicine Ball At Home

First, I embarked on an ever-iconic Target run to gather my copycat Starbucks Medicine Ball recipe ingredients. Since they were out of the exact Teavana teas I needed to replicate the TikTok recipe, I picked up two similar ones: first, the Good & Gather Organic Peach Honey Tea, and the Good & Gather Organic Mint Tea. I also picked up a jug of lemonade, and planned to use the honey I already had at home. All together, the three ingredients I needed ended up costing me about $9.50.

Step 1: Heat Lemonade

I measured a cup of lemonade, and just popped my Starbucks mug in the microwave for a minute.

Step 2: Add Water and Honey

While the lemonade was in the microwave, I set some water on in my electric kettle. Once both liquids were heated up, I measured a cup of water and combined it in the mug with a tablespoon of honey. Yum!

Step 3: Steep Tea Bags

Then, I put the two teabags in the mixture to steep. The tea wasn't overly hot either, and I steeped them for about 3 minutes before giving my homemade Medicine Ball recipe a lil' sip.

Is the homemade version of the Medicine Ball as good as the one from Starbucks?

To my surprise, my homemade Medicine Ball recipe was extremely delicious, and it mimicked the Starbucks one so closely. Before tasting, I gave my tea a sniff, and the smell was pretty much identical to the drink made in stores. The flavor hit the exact same mark.

Overall, I rate my homemade Starbucks Medicine Ball a 4.7/5.

The only detracting factors are the temperature of the drink – Starbucks steams their lemonade to make the drink super hot, and mine wasn't nearly as piping. Of course, this is just personal preference, and next time, I can heat the lemonade for a longer duration, or reheat the drink altogether. Another reason for the minimal point deduction is the drink wasn't as sweet as I expected it to be. Again, this is a personal preference, and you can add as little or as much sweetener you desire!

All of this goes to say, that a homemade Starbucks Medicine Ball is just as yummy as the one you can get at a Starbucks cafe. By following the steps above, you can make a copycat recipe that's going to satisfy your hankering for a citrusy, hot tea!

​What is Mercury Retrograde?

To grasp the significance of Mercury in retrograde, it’s essential to first understand what retrogrades are. As planets orbit the Sun, they follow specific paths, with some moving faster than others. Generally, the closer a planet is to the Sun, the quicker it travels. Occasionally, these planets appear to veer off their usual course; during this time, the Sun's gravitational pull brings them back into alignment, marking the onset of a retrograde period. While this phenomenon is astronomical, it resonates on a collective level, prompting reflection and introspection here on Earth.

Mercury, often referred to as the planet of communication, plays a crucial role in our thought processes, decision-making, and interactions. During its retrograde phase, which occurs multiple times each year, it's important to navigate this period with care. Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do’s:

• Reflect on past decisions and learn from previous experiences.
• Revisit unfinished projects or ideas that require reassessment.
• Take time for introspection and self-examination.

Don’ts:

• Avoid making significant decisions, such as buying a home or starting major renovations. These choices may face unexpected delays and complications.
• Steer clear of launching new projects, as they may not proceed as planned.

By being mindful during Mercury in retrograde, you can work its energy for thoughtful reflection rather than potential miscommunication and disruption. Remember, as above, so below.

​What is happening during this Mercury Retrograde in Sagittarius in 2024?

This Mercury retrograde in Sagittarius begins on November 25 and wraps up on December 15, 2024 — just in time for the holidays! During this quirky period, you might find communication and travel resembling a game of charades — confusing and full of surprises! Sagittarius, with its adventurous spirit and knack for big ideas, nudges you to reflect on your beliefs and long-term goals while dodging any miscommunication like a pro at a holiday buffet. Stay open-minded about new concepts, and by reflecting on past experiences, you can turn any holiday hiccups into cherished memories, making your connections with loved ones more meaningful — just double-check your travel plans.

Here are some common themes to expect during this period:

1. Miscommunication in Beliefs: Discussions around ethics and worldviews may lead to misunderstandings, so clarifying intentions is crucial.
2. Revisiting Travel Plans: If you have holiday trips or adventures in mind, be prepared for potential delays or changes. This is a good time to reassess your travel goals or revisit cherished destinations.
3. Reflecting on Learning: You might feel drawn to revisit past studies or explore new philosophies, making this a valuable time for self-reflection.
4. Adventurous Spirit: This retrograde may ignite a desire to break free from routine. However, be cautious about making impulsive decisions during the holiday rush.
5. Open to New Perspectives: While confusion may arise, this is also an opportunity to reevaluate your beliefs and explore fresh ideas with an open mind.

Overall, this period encourages you to slow down, reflect, and be mindful of how you communicate and receive information, enhancing your holiday experiences.

Read Your Sun & Rising Sign Mercury Retrograde Horoscopes For November 25-December 15, 2024

Aries (March 21 – April 20)

Prepare for some soul-searching between sips of eggnog and lively family chatter this holiday season. You might start to wonder if that “special holiday sweater” is really as special as you thought. Conversations could get a bit awkward, so take a deep breath and remember: that patience is key—especially when stories start to loop. Welcome any travel mishaps as unexpected adventures; they’ll turn into hilarious tales to share later!

Taurus (April 21 – May 21)

This season, it’s all about sharing—whether it’s your holiday spirit or your budget! You may need to tiptoe around sensitive topics, like who gets the last piece of the pie, so choose your words wisely. If plans get delayed, think of it as a chance to cozy up with loved ones instead of stressing out. Reflect on what matters, and don’t be afraid to indulge a little—after all, holiday treats are basically a form of self-care.

Gemini (May 22 – June 21)

Your relationships might resemble a game of charades, with everyone trying to decipher what everyone else really wants. Whether you’re flying solo or in a couple, keep an eye on those festive planning talks—they could definitely use some clarity. Use this time for personal growth, turning any communication slip-ups into lessons that brighten your celebrations and keep the fun rolling. Just remember: clarity is key, so make sure everyone’s on the same page.

Cancer (June 22 – July 22)

Prioritize your well-being and avoid the pressure of overworking yourself amidst the holiday hustle. As you juggle party prep, try not to get swept away in the festive chaos. Communication might feel like decoding a toddler’s drawing, so be clear with family and friends about what you need. Focus on self-care and balance, and you’ll navigate the whirlwind like a pro—maybe with a cozy blanket and a good movie on standby.

Leo (July 23 – August 22)

Get ready for a holiday season where your creative flair might take a few unexpected turns, like a well-rehearsed dance that suddenly goes off-script. As plans shift, practice your patience and remember what truly sparks joy for you. Reflect on those passions that make you shine, and don’t shy away from the mistakes--they often lead to the best holiday tales. Plus, a little extra glitter never hurt anyone—just try not to get it everywhere!

Virgo (August 23 – September 22)

Prepare for some family dynamics that might feel like a reality show reunion! Miscommunication could lead to some comedic misunderstandings about plans or traditions, so keep your cool. Take this time to reflect on your emotional needs and find a little order in the chaos. Strengthen those family bonds, because nothing says “holiday spirit” quite like sharing a laugh over that one family photo everyone wants to forget!

Libra (September 23 – October 22)

Expect your conversations to get a little tangled, like last year’s string lights. Short trips or outings could pop up, so embrace the unexpected adventures! Before sharing your brilliant ideas, take a moment to clarify your thoughts; nobody wants to accidentally volunteer to host the next family gathering (unless you really want to). Use these moments to deepen connections, and remember: the best holiday memories are often born from a bit of chaos.

Scorpio (October 23 – November 21)

This season, keep an eye on your spending—it’s easy to get swept up in the holiday cheer! As you tackle gift lists, take a moment to reflect on what truly matters—like the joy of giving without the post-holiday financial headache. Budgeting conversations may get tricky, so approach them with care. Mindful spending will help you enjoy a holiday filled with laughter and love, not a mountain of bills come January!

Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21)

Expect a bit of soul-searching this holiday, as you clarify your goals amidst the festive bustle. Conversations may go sideways, so take a moment to sort out your intentions before diving in. Cherish this chance for introspection and focus on what truly matters. Meaningful connections will blossom even in the chaos, turning challenges into opportunities for growth—and maybe a few good laughs along the way!

Capricorn (December 22 - January 19)

This holiday season, get ready for some introspection that might feel like unearthing old holiday memories. Past issues could bubble up, so keep your communication open to avoid any misunderstandings. Use this time to recharge and reflect on your needs. By seeing challenges as opportunities for growth, you can craft a more peaceful holiday experience—one that sets a cheerful tone for the New Year!

Aquarius (January 20 – February 19)

Friendships may take center stage, with old connections popping back up like holiday cheer. Just be ready for some communication blunders that might leave you scratching your head! Reflect on your social circles and decide who truly aligns with your vibe. Navigating these dynamics thoughtfully can lead to more meaningful connections and memorable festivities—after all, nothing beats laughter with friends over a cup of hot cocoa.

Pisces (February 20 – March 21)

This season, your career and public image might demand a bit of attention—like that one holiday decoration that always needs fixing. Communication with colleagues may hit a few snags, so be prepared for some delays. Reflect on your goals and ensure they match your true self. Staying clear and confident during festive gatherings will help you set the right tone for the year ahead—preferably one filled with good vibes and fewer awkward silences!