Date Night Ideas – How We Do It With Five Kids!

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May 24, 2021 by Ashley at Frugal Coupon Living Filed Under: Baby, Facebook, Instagram, Kids, Parenting, Pinterest, Social Media, Valentine's Day

We do it! We have weekly date nights even with five kids. Take a look at these Date Night Ideas for the home, for free, or even for special occasions out of the house. Where to find a babysitter, why date nights are important and more!

Date Night Ideas

This post isn’t late. I know Valentine’s Day has come and gone, but having a date night is more important than just on February 14th. When my husband and I first got married, date nights were not very important to me. I know that sounds silly. Honestly, coming from being a single mom, I was just grateful to have a partner to sit at home with me at the family table. I had had my fair share of dates during that time I was a single mom.

My husband, however, he wanted to court his wife. That reads incredibly sweet but it was a bit of a stressor to me. So I didn’t initially view it as sweet. I viewed it as adding something additional to my plate, I viewed it was having to get dressed and put on makeup, I view it as work to prepare the kids and try to get out the door… you get it moms, right? The perfect date for me was more like April 25th – not too hot and not too cold! Haha!

However, he was right. It wasn’t a date on the calendar, it was what we invested in each other. The more infrequent our dates become, the more I can feel the stress on our marriage. We needed to invest at least a few hours of alone time in our marriage without the distraction of kids, tv, chores, etc in the home.

Thus, began, our weekly date nights.

Date Night 101

When you need a date night, but don’t know how to go about it, you may need Date Night 101. Dating your spouse is important, especially if you have kids. It’s easy for your relationship to fall to the wayside. Focusing on each other for a certain amount of time each week can really help your relationship grow. I’ve tried to cover every aspect of a date night to help make it successful for you and your spouse.

Date Night Bucket List

What if you have a sitter but you don’t know where to start with WHAT to do? I want you to check out my Date Night Bucket List. This is a list of items will help you narrow down exactly what you want to do! It’s fun to get ideas from a bucket list and then execute those ideas.

Free Date Night Ideas

What if you have a sitter but need to stay on budget? There are lots of free date night ideas out there. Some ideas that I have for a free date night is making dinner at home, taking a walk at the park, taking a hike in your favorite park, head to a local book store and look at the books, go to a free museum, head to the beach, play a sport together, or just sit and talk!

You can see more free date nights in our Date Night Bucket List.

Elaborate Date Night Ideas

Sometimes you need a fancy night out. Maybe you and your spouse haven’t been out in a while and you just want to do something fun together without worrying about money. We do a date like this at least once every few months.

Do a weekend away
Wine tasting
A night out on the town
Go to a fancy restaurant
Ballroom dancing

Date Night at Home Ideas

A few truths. It’s possible that you won’t be able to find a babysitter, but you still need that quality time with your spouse. Go ahead and look into date night ideas right at home. Dating your mate is important, and it doesn’t need to be difficult.

Here are a few date night ideas at home to help you out:

Have a BBQ after the kids go to bed
Cook a dinner together, right at home
Have a dessert night where you eat your favorite desserts
Have a game night at home
Order takeout
Have a movie night
Have a game night together
Sit on the patio and have cocktails
Tell Alexa to play romantic music.

If you are feeling the love, try a Date Night Box Subscription or Date Night Cards.

Some of these Date Night at Home Ideas are creative and fun, also make an effort to go out. I really fought my spouse hard to have more date nights at home, but he was right in his rebuttal. I exclusively focus on him if I am away from my home. I am tried at home, I have a long list of things to do, and the kids will all fight for my attention. While, on the occasion or even season, it is okay, hire a sitter to help you get out of the house.

Where to Find a Babysitter

Finding a babysitter can be well… interesting. We have had a few that clearly were not a fit. You have seen that Luvs Second Kid Babysitter commercial, right? On some nights, this was me!

If you don’t have family close and can’t rely on someone you know to watch your kids, this can be hard! There are some solutions to finding a babysitter.

Split Your Kids Among Friends: It may be hard for one friend to take on all of your kids, so split them up! All the kids don’t need to be together in order for the parents to getaway.

Trade Babysitting Nights: Trade babysitting with another mom. While this can be harder, it is possible to make it work.

Word of Mouth: You can ask friends for a referral to one of their favorite babysitters. Word of mouth is always the best way to hire someone. I have also asked around and found babysitters in church nursery and have even found some on local Facebook groups.

Stalk the Park: Don’t think I am kidding. My kids were playing at the park one day and I observed a babysitter with another child. She was doing great and I thought, she would be a perfect fit for my kids. She was with a a year before going to college!

Care.com

Sometimes the best way to find a babysitter is to head to Care.com to find one. If you don’t have family in the area, it’s best to choose a platform like this that can help you find someone that fits your style. Not all babysitters are easy to find. Care.com will help cut out the middleman and help you find a babysitter that can make those date nights a reality.

Care.com is how we found our Nanny. We had a nanny for two years before our three boys were old enough to attend preschool. For us it was more affordable than full time preschool. She also was so incredibly helpful by making dinner, running errands, doing small chores, etc.

Have you heard someone say, we or I don’t have time for that? The truth is as moms, there are some things we really don’t have time for, but we do have time for what we put first. My advice to you is to make date night a priority. If you don’t, they will never happen. When they have time to happen (like the kids are all finally out of the house), you might look at your spouse and think – who is this man? Don’t let that happen. Don’t grow part, make your marriage first.

Whether you do date nights at home or hire a sitter, use these tips to help you date night happen with your spouse.

Print this Date Night Bucket List – Ideas for home, for free, and unique ideas. Pin to Pinterest.

Have a great babysitter? Take a look at these Nanny and Babysitter Appreciation Ideas! Pin to Pinterest.

WHAT’S TRENDING? Looking for a few engaging activities? Grab Minute to Win it Games – Traditional, Holiday, Group, and more! Use these fun activities in the office, classroom, or at your next birthday party.

Cute Father’s Day Cake Designs Every Dad Will Enjoy!

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May 23, 2021 by Ashley at Frugal Coupon Living Filed Under: Facebook, Father's Day, Instagram, Pinterest, Recipe, Social Media

When looking for Father’s Day Cake Designs, I only had two words that had to match the criteria – cute and easy. These easy Father’s day cake images are perfect for the kids to join in with simple cake recipes. Enjoy Father’s Day cupcakes, cakes, donuts, and even cake pop ideas!

Father’s Day Cake Designs

Does it every surprise you how early in the season ads began to show? Because of one simple Google search and suddenly I am flooded with father’s day cake advertisements. Little does Google realize (or do they) that my search of fathers day cake images is only because I fully plan to make my own easy and simple Father’s Day Cake Design. I bet if you have an amazing dad (or world’s okay-est dad), you too are on the hunt for Fathers Day Cake Ideas.

How can I make my dad’s Father’s Day special?

I ask myself this question every June. Truthfully our family does not go all out on every special occasion, but a boxed cake mix does always end up un my grocery shopping cart and we come home and act like we are on The Great British Bake Off. Our family is so competitive about our cake designs, that I have to rotate who is in charge of the cake each occasion. Luckily there are 7 of us and between 7 birthdays and too many holidays to count, there are many occasions for being crowned as “the best baker!”

If you too are asking what should I do for Father’s Day, pause here. Set the table, pull out some paper plates, and fill dad’s sweet tooth with some delight. These Happy Father’s Day Cake Ideas are that challenging. Best of all, most of them can be adapted to dad’s favorite flavor – chocolate, vanilla, carrot, hummingbird, yellow or our pop’s favorite – funfetti!

More Father’s Day Ideas

We have loads of Father’s day Ideas. Looking for the what can I get dad for Father’s Day, enjoy these posts before you get baking…

Father’s Day Cakes

Get ready to be blown away with these Happy Father’s Day cake designs!

This is a cute Father’s Day Cake design for those dads that like the great outdoors. I know my husband would take a campfire every night, as well as a chocolate cake. Follow this Campfire Cake tutorial on Hallmark (of all places!)

This Father’s Day cake topper is made from from Twizzlers and Bamboo Skewers. Isn’t that so fun (and easy?) Grab a box cake, tub of white icing and a bag of Twizzlers for this easy Father’s Day Cake idea from Oh Happy Day. If you are asking, “what can I do for Father’s Day with no money?” I bet you can find many of these items in your pantry or pick up everything for under $10.

For a bigger challenge, learn how to make father’s day cake with a check pattern. This Lumberjack Cake, from Jenny Cookies, creates a Buffalo plaid center using a Wilton Round Checkerboard Cake Pan Set. That means this checkerboard cake is as easy to make as boxed cake mix and some food coloring.

Does dad love Root Beer? If your dad would enjoy a “less sweet” cake, try this Father’s Day Bundt Cake Recipe from Father and Us.

How cute is this funny fathers day cake? It’s much easier thank you think. Eat a juicy burger for dinner and then recreate this Cheeseburger Cake for dessert – your theme “Dad is the cheese to your burger!” Read more from A Mix of Mediums.

Looking for simple fathers day cake designs, Alexis Tanner Lane has it. Re-create this Shirt & Tie Father’s Day cake idea. M&Ms, boxed cake mix, white icing… viola!

Father’s Day Cupcakes

These Fishing Cupcakes have been used in our beach party ideas but are also a perfect Father’s Day Cupcake, especially for a dad who loves to fish in salt water or fresh water!

We have more amazing cupcakes for dad and these are our favorite (in fact, we have seen this copied so many places – grrrrrr.) Download this {original} easy-peasy Father’s Day BBQ Grill Cupcakes using chocolate cake mix and a little creativity.

If you want a funny Father’s day idea, look at this fathers day cake with photo. We shared these cupcake toppers in our Surprise Party Ideas, but they also would be really adorable for happy birthday dad cake designs that fall on or near father’s day or leave off the age and just make cute Father’s day hats. Pick up these affordable photo cupcake toppers or make your own.

Okay seriously, how cute are these Lawn Mower Cupcakes from The Celebration Shoppe. Our daddy-o would love them, especially if he was given the day off from the lawn. Have an older son, throw him out doors to mow while dad sits on the couch!

Speaking of sitting on the couch, who wouldn’t love to also snack on these Corona & Blue Moon Cupcakes for Father’s Day from Erica’s Sweet Tooth. We especially think Corona is nicely fitting after the past year(s) we’ve had.

I mustache you a question. Are you enjoying these fathers day cake decorating ideas? We have more. Recreate our Mustache Cupcakes using a mustache template. We think dad will love it! make sure you put one on your upper lip when you cutely express “Happy father’s day!” to dad.

I mean if you haven’t added bacon ot a cupcake, have you even lived? If you love mixed tastes like salty and sweet, give this Maple Syrup Bacon Cupcakes a try for Father’s Day. From none other than the amazing bakers at Wilton (so it has to be good, right?)

Father’s Day Cake Pops

Happy fathers day cake images are incredibly inspiring, but have you tried a bucket of peanuts? Take dad out to the ball game with these baseball cake pops from Daisy Brand. You read that right, these cake pops have Daisy Sour Cream inside.

Any Tee-rrific dads out there? Make these really cute Golf Tee Cake Pops for dad from Evermine. We bet this is a hole in one Father’s Day dessert for one (or two, three or more!)

Father’s Day Donuts

One of our favorite fathers day cake decorating ideas is this Hole in One Donut Recipe. Yes, we know it isn’t a cake, but put it on top of a cake or skip the donut recipe and just create a boxed cake mix following the same gold design directions. Don’t forget to add this Donuts for Dad Invitation!

I was really surprised how easy this Father’s Day Donuts recipe is. Using Alphabet Cookie Cutters and Pillsbury Grands, recreate it yourself by following the directions on A Pretty Cool Life. Place them on top of a cake for a fun father cake design.

Don’t forget! Also enjoy these Father’s Day Crafts for Kids & Gift Ideas. Pin to Pinterest.

Want to attach a cute printable to your Father’s Day Cake? Take a look at these fun Father’s Day Printables you can download and print now! Pin to Pinterest.

End of the School Year Printables

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May 19, 2021 by Ashley at Frugal Coupon Living Filed Under: Back To School, Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, Printable, Social Media

All the End of the School Year Printables you need from last day of school signs, end of school year gifts for teachers and end of school year gifts for students – all with free last day of school printables!

End of the School Year Printables

I have no idea where another school year went. My oldest is entering middle school and my youngest three will be in preschool. The end of the year is incredibly busy so I love to simplify it with the help of free printables. We have plenty of End of the School Year Printables including last day of school signs, end of school year teacher gift ideas, and also end of school year gifts for students.

Last Day of School Signs

It has been a family tradition for us to have first and last day of school signs. I love seeing how the kids have grown.

These black & white Yellow Bliss Road printables have been my favorite last day of school chalkboard signs printables. I actually downloaded from preschool to 12th grade to have them forever! You never know when blog will shut down and I just wanted to have a uniform look each year.

Chickabug has bright last day of school signs with the year. You can get pink, blue, green or purple end of the year signs.

Today’s Creative Life is a friend and has some of the cutest stuff. I really love Last Day of School Pennants for Teens (and kids). I love the idea of her son laying in bed!

Instead of a last day of school sign, how about a Last Day of School Time Capsule. This time capsule leads kids with last day of school questions so you can see how your child has evolved. Begin this school tradition in Pre-K (or Kindergarten) and go to 12th grade!

What about about a finish line last day of school printable from Just Add Confetti. Have your child run their way into summer! Also seen in our End of the Year Activities and School Traditions.

Grab a last day of school photo full of color. I am really in love with these Colorful Last Day of School printables with the year from Happiness is Homemade.

End of School Year Gifts for Students

As a teacher I loved to give small gifts to my students. One item I gave them was a CD of the photos I took during the school year. They loved this. That tradition of giving hasn’t died. My kids, as well, love giving small last day of school gifts for friends.

This is our favorite student gift idea. Have everyone walk out of the classroom clapping with these see you later alligator gift tags for hand clappers!

Looking for an easy end of the year student gift perfect for summer vacation? Sunglasses are an easy and inexpensive end of the year gift idea for the kids – Have a bright summer with this last day of school gift from True Life I’m a Teacher.

You can also have a Kool Summer with this idea from The Crafted Sparrow. Take some Kool-Aid packets, crazy straws, and summer gift tag printables – and viola – you have quick and easy way to give a fun end of the year gift.

This end of the year quote from Dr. Seuss is turned into a end of the school year bag topper. Just add these 1 lb Milk Chocolate World Globe Balls– You’re off to Great Places! Today is your day! Your mountain is waiting, So… get on your way! Thanks, A Little Claireification!

See more Graduation Party Ideas

Kids love bubbles. You blew me away this year with this adorable bubble end of the year gift idea for students. Pick up bubble sticks online or at the dollar store and download this printable from Sparkling in Second Grade.

A lot of student gift ideas from Pocket of Preschool. We love these have a sweet summer candy gift tags for students. Just add Skittles candy (or a candy of your choice!)

Keep cool this summer with this EOS end of the year gift printable.

Keep Cool this Summer EOS Student Gift Tag

Have a poppin’ good summer! Just add a bag of microwave popcorn or a container of popcorn.

Have a Poppin’ Summer Student Gift Tag

Get all of our free printables including this End of the Year Popcorn Gift for Students and Keep Cool this Summer EOS printable. Subscribe and look for a link and password in our inbox. The password allows you to access and download any of our free printables.

I am happy to share printables. When sharing with others, please lead them to my website instead of emailing them the file(s). It takes time, effort and money to put the freebies forth and I earn when you visit. Thanks for visiting and thanks for sharing with others!

End of School Year Teacher Gift Ideas

We have plenty of Punny Funny Teacher Gift Ideas (you can print) or Teacher Appreciation Printable Gift Ideas. These can be used any time of year but are also acceptable as end of school year teacher gift ideas. These last day of school gift ideas for teachers include printables! Be sure to take a look because there are so many ideas.

… but we also want to keep it simple on you. For this year and next year and the year after, print our 12 months of teacher gift tags. Easy access seasonal gift tags with our Teacher Appreciation Bundle. From the first day of school until the last day of school, grab this printable set for small random acts of kindness and thank you gift tags throughout the school year.

Teacher Appreciation Gift Tag Bundle Sale

For an “Uh-Mason” Teacher, use this Mason Jar Gift Tag Gift Idea from Lil Luna. You could even sneak in a gift card between those tiny little candies!

For a teacher who helped your child grow, gift a succulent gift idea and teacher gift tag – Thank you for helping me grow!

Fill a Sonic cup with red crinkle paper, insert a gift card and tie with a ribbon in this Sonic Themed Teacher Appreciation Gift Idea from Giggles Galore.

Thank you for keeping me on Target this year! Attach black and white twine and a Target gift card with this teacher gift idea from The Real Housewife of Fresno

Grab a cute summer tote and fill with fun things to take to the pool or beach! All year you worked hard to make learning fun, now it’s your turn to relax in the sun teacher gift tag from Skip to My Lou.

No one hates flowers! Thanks a bunch for being a great teacher from Simply Kierste. We find adorable, affordable flowers at Trader Joes! You can find brown kraft paper cardstock to wrap your flower. A sweet touch. I would suggest a blue and white gingham ribbon too.

This wine teacher gift idea from Make and do Crew is so unique. Thank you for teaching our child to think, kick off the summer with a drink. If they don’t drink or you don’t know, grab them a gift card to a place that has good drinks – a fun lunch spot or a coffee shop!

Hosting a Graduation? Take a look at our Graduation Ideas as well as our Graduation Party Games! Pin to Pinterest.

Look at these End of the Year Activities and School Traditions. Pin to Pinterest.

We also love these End of the Year Kids Party Games. Get ready to get messy and have fun! Pin to Pinterest.

20 Camping Recipes Your Family Will Love

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May 17, 2021 by Ashley at Frugal Coupon Living Filed Under: Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, Recipe, Social Media

Getting ready to spend a night in the great outdoors? Check out these Camping Recipes the entire family will love! From skillet nachos, to campfire potatoes, to s’mores in a cone, to the classic hot dogs on the fire, these easy camping meals are the key to making your trip extra special!

20 Camping Recipes Your Family Will Love

Looking for some camping ideas on your next outdoor family outing? One of my favorite parts about camping is the food! There’s nothing quite like a meal prepared on the campfire, especially after a long day of having fun outdoors. We found some of the best Camping Recipes including desserts, entrees on a stick, one pot meals, and tasty s’mores inside of a cone. I love these camping meals so much that I’d make a fire in my backyard just to recreate them! From camping breakfast ideas to campfire dinners and everything in between, consider this your camping recipe bucket list for the year. Have fun out there, and enjoy!

What are some of the best foods to bring for camping meals?

When it comes to camping meals, you want to keep things relatively simple — but that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice flavor! It’s a must to plan your meals ahead and only take the ingredients that you know you will need. Prep your ingredients in portioned bags or containers before you stock your cooler and hit the road. Some of the best ingredients for easy camping meals are sausage, veggies, chips, cheese, and eggs. You really can’t go wrong with these! If you’re staying for a few days, consider taking some non-perishable items like canned foods.

Going overnight camping? Take a look at these Overnight Camping Ideas. Headed on a glamping trip? Take a look at these glamping ideas for the girls!

Also take a look at our tasty Foil Packet Meals for the Grill, Oven or Campfire. We also think you will love these Camping Hacks and Tips.

Happy camping!

This is a camping recipe your family will want to make all summer long! S’mores Campfire Cones are so good, and you can even eat them in your own backyard! | Frugal Coupon Living

Quick Grilled Sausage & Veggie Foil Packs take about 10 minutes to put together and can be grilled, baked, or cooked on an open fire! | Bless this Mess

Looking for camping breakfast ideas? These easy breakfast egg muffins can be made right on the grill! | Gimme Some Grilling

We love these hot dogs even more than the regular kind! Twist up the traditional entree with some Pillsbury Crescent Rolls – Camping Hot Dogs Recipe. | Frugal Coupon Living

Yes, you can have pizza while you’re camping! Make this skillet pizza recipe on an open fire! | Fresh Off the Grid

It doesn’t have to be a Taco Tuesday to enjoy these Skillet Nachos! | Pip and Ebby

Campfire french toast? Yes, please! Your family is in for a treat when they wake up to this indulgent breakfast. | This Lil Piglet

Gather around the campfire with these Hot Ham and Pineapple Campfire Sandwiches. The sweet and savory flavor is unbeatable! | Dessert Now Dinner Later

Pho ramen sounds fancy, but it’s one of the easiest camping meals to make! This one would be perfect for a chilly night. | The Woks of Life

All aboard the Grilled Banana Boat! This S’mores campfire recipe will please both kids and adults! | Tonya Staab

Another amazing breakfast find – Campfire Cinnamon Rolls Baked in Oranges. Use your leftover oranges to make some freshly squeezed OJ! | Frugal Coupon Living

Cheese and chips is never a bad idea. Take a look at this easy Camp Food: Queso Fundido. | Food of Our Lives

Grab a fork and dig into this Chili Campfire Bake! | Six Sisters’ Stuff

Pack a bottle of honey for these Campfire Breadsticks. You can never go wrong with warm, fresh bread! | Shock Munch

This easy and delicious campfire monkey bread recipe only requires a few ingredients, but it tastes gourmet! | Say No to Sweet Anne

Camping Recipes the entire family will love. From skillet nachos, campfire potatoes, s'mores inside a cone, and hot dogs on the fire, these camping ideas are sure to please those young and old! #FrugalCouponLiving

Everyone loves mac and cheese! Take a look at this Camping Mac N’ Cheese Recipe. | Lauren’s Latest

Everyone loves the Hobo Supper – load up your foil packet with potatoes, meat, asparagus, and some seasoning! | Big Red Kitchen

This is one of our kids’ favorite camping meals and brings up such great memories. Enjoy Fritos Bagged Walking Tacos (also great with Doritos!) | Frugal Coupon Living

Want to spice it up? Try this Jalapeño Popper Corn on the Cob. Leave out the jalapeños if it’s too much! | California Grown

Need a side dish for your campfire feast? These Campfire Potatoes are so yummy! | Frugal Coupon Living

While you’re preparing for your trip, check out our Camping Hacks and Tips. Pin to Pinterest.

Need more inspiration for your camping meals? You’ll love these Foil Packet Meals. Pin to Pinterest.

Enjoy these Mouthwatering Skewer Recipes too. Pin to Pinterest.

If it is just the girls camping, take a look at these Glamping Ideas for the Ultimate Camping Trip for the Girls! Pin to Pinterest.

Camping with the kids? Keep them entertained with camping activities. Download these 13 Best Camping Games which include directions and a supply list (using items you likely already have!)

Beach Camping Basics & Tips

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May 17, 2021 by Ashley at Frugal Coupon Living Filed Under: Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, Social Media, Summer, Travel

Reinvent your typical camping vacation by taking your tent to the beach! These Beach Camping Basics and Tips will have you ready to embrace the sand and sun at your favorite local beach campsite. Camping at the beach has never been easier or more enjoyable!

Beach Camping Basics & Tips

Nothing feels more relaxing and fun to me than kicking back on a sun-drenched beach while my kids giggle and splash in the water. This could just be the Florida girl in me, but very few things beat beach camping in the summertime. Whether you’re embarking on this adventure for the first time on your own or with your family, preparation is key to making this a worthwhile endeavor for everyone, especially you. Keep these tips for camping on the beach handy for your next excursion to stay prepared and make some unforgettable summer memories.

Can you camp on the beach?

In short, it totally depends on the beach! Make sure you research the rules and regulations pertaining to camping on the beach at your desired shore. Doing your research ahead of time will give you peace of mind knowing that you well-prepared for an unforgettable beach vacation.

Know Your Destination Area

Whether you’re camping directly on a beach or at a nearby campsite, it’s important to know the area you’re going to. Will there be a source of water available? What about electricity and showers/bathrooms? If it’s a bare campsite, that means you’ll need to bring everything you need and be prepared to haul it back out again.

Regardless of the facilities and amenities provided, you’ll need to plan accordingly for how long you’re going to stay. There are plenty of camping hacks out there to help you improvise for what you need as well. Grab a map of your campground and see if you can get there by car or you’ll need to walk a ways. That will affect what you decide to bring with you!

Make a List

There’s no worse feeling than arriving at your camping spot, boogie board in hand and poised to dive in, and realizing that you forgot diapers or deodorant. While that might be a unique tactic for claiming more sleeping space, forgetting necessary items will most assuredly add unwanted stress to your getaway vacation.

It might be the natural organizer in me, but I feel more confident that I have all the essentials when I have a checklist in front of me. Try this free beach packing list to make sure you remember everything for your beach camping trip.

Plan Your Meals Ahead

While carving a fishing spear out of a tree branch in order to “live off the land” may seem quite rugged and exciting, that excitement will quickly wane after your three-year-old’s piercing screams for animal crackers. Unfortunately, you can’t hunt and gather those in the wild.

It’s important to have meals planned BEFORE you arrive at your campsite. Make sure the meals are low-prep and can easily be prepared over a campfire. There are some delicious foil packet meals out there that my family has tried and loved. Also, speaking from experience, aluminum foil is the quintessential camping meal prep item that every beach camper should have in their arsenal.

Snacks are a must. After all, the sun can quickly take you from full to famished. One recipe we always make for the beach is our beach snack mix! Double or even triple your recipe for hungry bellies.

Have the Right Equipment for Camping at the Beach

Having the right camping equipment can make or break your beach camping experience. You’ll want to invest in gear that’s appropriate for the place and time of year you’re making your trip. This doesn’t mean that you’ll have to take out a second mortgage on your home, though. Ask your friends if you can borrow their tents/gear first, and there is nothing wrong with gently used camping tents and equipment either.

Regardless of how you get your hands on a tent, you’ll want to ensure it has the following qualities:

Well-ventilated
Easy set-up and breakdown
Lightweight
UPF 50+ Protection (Recommended)

You’ll also want to make sure that you have good ground cover to prepare for any type of weather. If it’s hot, there’s a virtual certainty of sand fleas and ticks. No one wants to worry about sharing their sleeping quarters with sand fleas. No one.

Wear Appropriate Clothing

The type of beach you’re camping at (sandy or rocky) will determine what clothing you’ll want to throw in your suitcase, but for the most part, you’ll want items that are:

Lightweight and moisture-wicking
A nice hat that shades you from the sun
Mosquito netting
Water shoes (if beach is sandy)
Water-resistant sneakers (if beach is rocky)

Have Activities Planned

While it is fun to be spur of the minute, consider planning ahead some of the things you might want to do on your trip. Get organized by downloading these Beach Games or Camping Games. Both can be played when beach camping and include game directions and a supply list (so you have your camping packing list ready before going!)

All in all, the key to a fun, memorable beach camping experience is preparation, organization, and a healthy thirst for adventure. Follow these Beach Camping Basics and you’ll be a pro in no time. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s go to the beach!

Don’t forget our Camping Hacks and Tips. Pin to Pinterest.

Also take a look at our Overnight Camping Tips. Pin to Pinterest.

25 FREE Disney Printables – Crafts, Coloring, Creativity

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May 17, 2021 by Ashley at Frugal Coupon Living Filed Under: Crafts, DIY, Facebook, Free, Instagram, Pinterest, Social Media

Calling all Disney fanatics! We’ve got you covered with 25 Disney printables to delight the whole family. From Disney princess printables to Frozen printables, there’s something here for every Disney lover. Enjoy!

20 FREE Disney Printables

Pin to Pinterest

Whether you’re taking a trip to Disney, have already enjoyed a trip to Disney or just, well, LOVE DISNEY, these ideas are sure to delight! From crafts, to games, to parties and more, these free Disney printables will deliver all the magic of Disney right into your home.

What can you use Disney printables for?

Want to make sure you make the most of your magical Disney vacation? Download the Disney World Bucket List and check off your stops along the way!

Learning about emotions? Print out the Inside Out cards to help your kids identify their feelings.

Hosting a movie night? There are more than a few sources of inspiration to make your night extra special!

Make lunch extra special for your kiddo with Disney printables! Why not surprise your little Mouseketeer with an adorable lunchbox note with their favorite character on it?

Got a little one who’s Frozen obsessed? We’ve even got Frozen Photo Props, too! That’ll be a blast!

Headed on a Disney cruise? Download this Disney Cruise Printable Checklist from Frugal Coupon Living.

Don’t miss a thing! Download our Disney World Bucket List from Frugal Coupon Living.

This Disney Movie Quotes Game from A Girl and a Gun looks like LOADS of fun, any day of the week!

Tick, tock, tick, tock… Grab this Countdown to Disney/Disneyland Printable from All for the Memories for the days leading up to your Disney getaway!

Plus, check out our FREE Countdown to Disney Printable. Pin to Pinterest.

Need Disney princess printables for the fan of all things princess in your family? Download these precious Disney Princess Posters for your little princess’s wall from Over the Big Moon.

Make your own Buzz Lightyear drink with Toy Story Printable from Frugal Coupon Living.

These Princess Candy Necklace Party Favors from Five Marigolds work for any princess-themed party!

Setting sail with Disney? We love this Free Disney Cruise Door Printable from Frugal Coupon Living.

This Emotions Mini Book and Card Game from Teach Mama is both fun and meaningful for the kids.

Keep the kids occupied on the way to Disney World with this Would You Rather Disney Edition Travel Game from One She Two She

These Toy Story Printable Mason Pudding Jar Cups welcome everyone to the round-up from Frugal Coupon Living.

These Family Movie Night Tickets from Mommas Fabulous Playground will make your Disney movie night an extra special event.

Is your little princess obsessed with all things Frozen? Download these Frozen Paper Dolls from A Few Short Cuts and let her play around with Elsa and Anna’s outfits!

Take the memory of meeting your favorite characters home with you from the park! Grab these Disney Autograph Cards from Sew Cake Make and let your kids gather signatures from their beloved friends at Disney.

With a park as big as Disney World, you can never be too prepared! This Disney World Vacation Planner from The Purple Pumpkin Blog will help you organize your time so you can make the most of your vacation.

How cute is this Disney Subway Art from Eighteen25? This would look great in a kid’s playroom!

This Mickey or Minnie Inspired Party Pack from Leo Loves Invitations has all the best Disney printables to make sure your kid’s Disney birthday is on point.

You could use these Disney Dollars Printables from Real Mom’s Disney for so many things, at home or at the park!

Make your little one’s lunch as magical as they are with Disney Lunchbox Notes from Delicate Construction.

There’s no cuter way to save your place in a good book than with Disney Princess Bookmarks from Kids Kreate.

Disney Frozen Photo Props from Kristen Duke Photography are PERFECT for a Frozen-themed birthday party. Or, just for fun!

These free Disney Coloring Pages from Disney Me are a perfect way to spend some time coloring.

Grab these Winnie the Pooh Popcorn Bucket Templates from Merriment Design for your next Disney movie night! How cute is Tigger’s tail?!

Another one that’s great for a Disney birthday party! Get these Minnie Mouse Plate Ears from Chicka Bug.

Find every single hidden Mickey at the park with this Hidden Mickeys Punch Card from Yellow Bliss Road.

Got the Disney bug? Enjoy these Copycat Disney Recipes. Pin to Pinterest.

Looking for the perfect treats to serve at your Disney get together? Make this Mickey Mouse Food – Chocolate Covered Mickey OREOs. Pin to Pinterest.

Also take a look at these amazing Disney Cruise Tips, Hacks, and Tricks. Pin to Pinterest.

Father’s Day Craft Ideas

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May 17, 2021 by Ashley at Frugal Coupon Living Filed Under: Crafts, DIY, Facebook, Father's Day, Instagram, Pinterest, Social Media

Celebrate dad with these kids’ Father’s Day crafts! Easy and adorable crafts that show dad just how thankful you are for everything he does. Browse our entire list of inspiration for the best Father’s Day crafts for kids!

Father’s Day Craft Ideas

Now that Mother’s Day has passed and June is approaching, it’s almost time to say “thank you” to all the dads out there! Father’s Day is the best time to celebrate all the dads, stepdads, grandfathers, and father figures in our families’ lives. Dads are so special, and we often don’t get enough chances to express how much they really mean to us.

Whoever you are recognizing this Father’s Day and whatever their tastes may be, let the little ones celebrate with these amazing and fun Father’s Day crafts for kids! There is nothing like a handmade gift from the heart to say “I love you, Dad!” Whether dad is a fan of sports, a fixer-upper kind of guy, or the best grill master on the block, these kids’ Father’s Day crafts have something that every dad will love — and that the kids will love making for him. Enjoy these Father’s Day craft ideas, and happy Father’s Day!

What’s the best inexpensive Father’s Day gift?

The great thing about Father’s Day is that whoever you’re celebrating will love the gift you make, even if it’s just a simple card. Gifts from kids are always about the love put into them, not how much is spent. These kids’ Father’s Day craft ideas are both inexpensive and heartfelt. Choose one that fits Dad’s personality and he’ll cherish it for years to come!

First up! This homemade Father’s Day Gift idea will become Dad’s favorite staple in the kitchen. Make Dad a Mason Jar BBQ Spice Rub with a free SVG File for Cricut. How cute is this? He’ll love it, and you all will too!

We have another free SVG File for you! How about crafting this DIY Cricut Father’s Day Photo Frame for Dad? Let him know that he’s your rock or your rock star!

For the dad that roots you on when the going gets tough, this adorable Root Beer Father’s Day Gift Idea on Thirty Handmade Days is the perfect way to go!

Got a handy dandy kind of Dad? We love this Father’s Day Gift Card Idea from Lil Luna. Gift Dad with a Lowes or Home Depot gift card with an adorable tool theme.

Giving Dad tickets to his favorite game? Craft this Play Ball Mason Jar from Mad in Crafts to complete the gift!

How about a keepsake photo for Dad? Try this We Love Daddy Feet photo idea from Freckle Photo. You could even put it in a frame!

Gift dad the gift of amazing treats with this Father’s Day Tool Box with Git Tag printable on Frugal Coupon Living!

Sometimes, the simple things are best. This Father’s Day Chalkboard Printable is so cute and can be totally personalized to any father. Idea on The Shabby Creek Cottage.

Decorate the home with this tie-riffic Father’s Day Banner. Also attach little gift tag ties for a terrific dad! | Amanda’s Parties to Go

How cute is this Father’s Day craft for the kids? This DIY Tie Rack Idea comes from Craftaholics Anonymous.

Give Dad some special coupons with this FREE Father’s Day Coupon Printable from I Should be Mopping the Floor. Dad can cash in all year long!

If it has a POP in the name, add it to this One Stop Pop Shop from No Biggie.

Whose Dad loves Star Wars? The force is with this Dad in this DIY Star Wars Mug from Made in a Day.

Make dad a Father’s Day Six Pack Survival Pack with FREE Printables from Creative Live.

Now, one for the grill master in the family! Take a look at this DIY Father’s Day Grill Master Sign from The Rustic Willow.

Here’s another great one for grill fanatics! This DIY BBQ Bucket for Dad from Everyday Dishes holds all of Dad’s grilling essentials.

Does Dad love to fish? For the dad that is a catch, try out this Hugs and Fishes Gift Idea on Thirty Handmade Days.

Similar to our coupon book idea, this Tokens for Dad gift lets Dad redeem cute rewards in the future! Get this and more from Evermine.

Is dad a traveler? Instead of a card, make this Airplane Garland with sweet sentiments and notes from Studio DIY.

This is too cute! This Father’s Day, make dad LEGO Prints of the Family like this idea and tutorial on A Joyful Riot.

This simple kids’ Father’s Day craft won’t cost much, but makes up for it in meaning. Check out this Father’s Day Gift of Time from One Artsy Mama.

For the dad who loves sports, this Sports Team Bucket comes from Hoosier Homemade.

For the golfer dad, decorate golf balls with Sharpies! The kids will love the drawing activity and dad will appreciate the extra golf balls. Ideas from Annarbor Mom.

This DIY Wood Key Chain from Easy Peasy and Fun is fun, meaningful, and useful. The perfect gift!

Looking for more Father’s Day ideas? Save these Free Father’s Day Printables. Pin to Pinterest.

More Father’s Day fun? Yes, please! Take a look at these DIY Father’s Day Ideas. Pin to Pinterest.

We love these Father’s Day Crafts for Kids: Preschool, Elementary and More! Pin to Pinterest.

Make dad an amazing Father’s Day Dessert – these Father’s Day Cake Ideas range from the expert to the easy! Pin to Pinterest.

Summertime Popsicle Recipes – Cool Off Your Hot Days!

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May 16, 2021 by Ashley at Frugal Coupon Living Filed Under: DIY, Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, Recipe, Seasonal

Summertime Popsicle Recipes – Cool Off Your Hot Days with these ice pop recipes.

Summertime Popsicle Recipes

Who doesn’t love an ice-cold popsicle on a hot summer’s day? When the temperature spikes in the middle of summer, everyone is searching for ways to cool off. Our usual method is to visit the beach or the pool to take a dip. Whatever it may be in your home, I am sure it is paired with a refreshing summer snack. And one of the best refreshing summer treats on a hot day are popsicles!

We are so excited to share these Summertime Popsicle Recipes with you. Not only are there yummy recipes for the kids, but we snuck in some adult only treats you will be sure to make over and over. Whether you are looking for homemade popsicles for kids or DIY popsicles for the grownups, you’ll keep coming back to these recipes all summer long. Take a look at these DIY Popsicle Recipes with Fruit, Spirits, Chocolate and more – and be sure to let us know your favorites!

How do you make DIY popsicles creamy instead of icy?

Icy popsicles can work if they are a fruit variety. But if you are making chocolate or any other cream-based popsicles, you will want to have a smooth texture, not an icy one. A tip I saw online is to add a tablespoon of cornstarch to your DIY popsicles before pouring the mixture into your molds! If anyone tries this, I’d love to know how it works for you. It sounds like a great little hack to make sure your creamy popsicle texture stays on point!

What can you make you DIY popsicles in?

You might think that you need molds specifically designed for popsicles in order to make your own at home, but that actually isn’t the case! Of course, a popsicle mold would be the easiest way, and you can always grab some inexpensive ones off of Amazon or at the Dollar Tree if you would prefer. But if you are in a pinch, you can easily use these household items in place of a mold!

Plastic or paper cups
Ice cube trays
Clean, recycled yogurt containers
Any small baking tins, like muffin tins

If you don’t have popsicle sticks to use, a sturdy straw, plastic spoon, or plastic knife would work as well. We do recommend popsicle sticks though, as they are relatively easy to find, super inexpensive, and they have the name “popsicle sticks” for a reason — they are made for the job!