Frugal Coupon Living

Stretching Your Pennies, Saving Your Dollars

Elf on the Shelf Coffee Station

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by Filed Under: Christmas, Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, Social Media, The Elf on the Shelf Ideas

published date: December 01, 2021
modified datt: December 01,2021

Long nights require a boost of caffeine. In this cute Elf on the Shelf coffee idea, Elf sits by the coffee refueling station with his own miniature coffee mug. New creative, funny, and original Elf on the Shelf Ideas daily.

Want new Elf on the Shelf Ideas in your inbox daily in the month of November & December? Sign up here!

Elf on the Shelf Coffee Station

We are back, so is the Elf on the Shelf! If you have been with us a long time, you know we have brought you a new Elf on the Shelf Ideas daily (in the months of November and December) for the past seven years. You can view our Elf on the Shelf Master List for a full list of ideas including every idea we have ever done.

For many of these Elf on the Shelf ideas, make sure you have an elf that can bend. You can do that easily with our Bendable Elf on the Shelf tutorial.  You also can shop our collection of Elf Printables for ideas to cover the entire season!

Shop Elf Printables + Digital Downloads

Elf on the Shelf Coffee

In our home, my kids know my love need for coffee. On those extra long nights, coffee was my fuel. In this cute coffee Elf idea, Elf must have had a long night because he is hugging his very own Elf on the shelf coffee cup rather tightly.

Elf on the Shelf Supplies Needed

Poke a hole through your K-Cup. Place your Elf doll by the coffee maker. Create a little sign that says Elf refueling station.


Elf on the Shelf Coffee Mugs

For a fun addition to this Elf coffee idea, add an Elf on the Shelf Coffee Mug. Scout Elf company used to make an adorable Elf on the Shelf mug with a spoon that sat in the handle. Unfortunately, it is no longer available unless you are able to score an Elf on the Shelf mug on Ebay.

There are a few places to find cute Elf coffee cups.

Elf on the Shelf Printables

Our most popular Elf on the Shelf printables can be found in our Elf Store. Shop Elf costumes, our Elf Twister board, Jokes for Kids, our Magic Shrinking Machine and so much more!

Shop Elf Printables + Digital Downloads

Free Elf Printables

We also love sharing Elf on the Shelf free printables! Get all of our free Elf on the Shelf printables by entering your email address below. Look for an email to confirm you signed up. Once you confirm, look for a second email in your inbox with a link and password!

Free Printables Step by Step Directions

1.) Enter your email address here.

2.) Look for a confirmation email in your inbox and confirm you requested a sign up.

3.) We will send you a Free Printables Welcome Email with link and passcode to all of our free printables.

4.) Enter your passcode at the top of the page here and click “Access Printables”

5. Enjoy your Elf on the Shelf Printables.

Elf on the Shelf on Social Media

Save these ideas because you will want to stay up to date on these ideas each Christmas season. We do our best to mix up easy and hard Elf on the Shelf Ideas.

Elf on the Shelf Facebook Page

Multiple ideas are added each day to our Elf on the Shelf Ideas Facebook page. This is a great way for you to share your own Elf on the Shelf Ideas and share our ideas to your page. There are some good ones! Be sure to like the page!

Elf on the Shelf Pinterest Boards

We also are in charge of a Elf on the Shelf Ideas Pinterest board. On this board, we have invited other bloggers to share their ideas and free Elf on the Shelf Printables too! Be sure to follow the board!

Our goal, to make Elf easy for you!

What is Elf on the Shelf?

Elf on the Shelf is a Christmas Tradition. The tradition has a book and a elf doll. The book is poetic and in rhyme sharing the purpose of the Elf’s visits. The Elf visits each Thanksgiving. He/She goes and returns from the North Pole each evening. Every morning he can be found in a new location in the house. The Elf has been found in the refrigerator, fishing in the toilet, writing messages on the mirror or hanging from the lights. It is VERY IMPORTANT, the Elf is not touch each evening or his Christmas magic will be lost! Each family is able to name their special elf. The elves return to their home (Santa’s North Pole Work shop) every Christmas Eve. An Elf’s Story can also be found on DVD.


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Don’t forget all of our daily Elf on the Shelf Ideas. Pin to Pinterest on your Christmas and Elf Boards.

Elf on the Shelf Ideas

We have been doing Elf on the Shelf forever. See our Elf on the Shelf Master List. Pin to Pinterest.

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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.

Two More Weeks of Elf – Need a Boost?

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by Filed Under: Christmas, Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, Social Media, The Elf on the Shelf Ideas

published date: December 10, 2021
modified datt: November 30,2021

Can you make it through two more weeks of Elf on the Shelf? Take a look at this Elf Prop Store for $15 off $30. New creative, funny, and original Elf on the Shelf Ideas daily.

Want new Elf on the Shelf Ideas in your inbox daily in the month of November & December? Sign up here!

How is it going? You are halfway through Elf on the Shelf? Are you still following your Elf calendar of ideas? Have you set your Elf on the Shelf nightly reminder? Have you run out of excuses for why Elf didn’t move?

It is usually on the home stretch when Elf moving committee members begin to fade.

Elf on the Shelf Ideas

Get inspired with just a few more Elf on the Shelf ideas to help you on the home stretch…

In addition to a few quick and easy Elf ideas, I am are offering a weekend Elf prop sale to help you get through the final few weeks of Elf. Elf on the Shelf printables are so easy because they quickly create the Elf idea for you!

Elf Prop Sale

Have you tried…

Save $15 off a purchase of $30 or more. Use code ELF2GO. Grab an Elf bundle or some individual props to help you push through the final few weeks.

This code expires midnight 12/12/21 and is only good in the Frugal Coupon Living Elf Store.

Just two more weeks to go. You’ve got this!

Share-Post-on-Pinterest-Frugal-Coupon-Living

Don’t forget all of our daily Elf on the Shelf Ideas. Pin to Pinterest on your Christmas and Elf Boards.

Elf on the Shelf Ideas

We have been doing Elf on the Shelf forever. See our Elf on the Shelf Master List. Pin to Pinterest.

red-frugal-coupon-living-signature

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.

Say Hello! Elf on the Shelf Ideas for Arrival

This post may contain affiliate links or ads. Read my privacy policy and disclosure policy here.

by Filed Under: Christmas, Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, The Elf on the Shelf Ideas

published date: November 01, 2019
modified datt: November 30,2021

I’m Back Elf on the Shelf Ideas for Arrival – Elf is headed back to your home to the North Pole. Eighteen creative Elf on the Shelf Return Ideas to say hello to your elf on their first night. 

Want the newest Elf on the Shelf Ideas in your inbox daily in the month of November & December? Sign up here!

Elf on the Shelf Ideas for Arrival

If you are new to the Elf on the Shelf, let’ us guide you. The elf season can be quite intimidating and overwhelming. Take your Elf season from frantic to relaxed with Frugal Coupon Living as a resource.

First, at Frugal Coupon Living we bring a new Elf on the Shelf Idea all November and December long.  Before your Elf enters your front door, make sure to plan ahead. November is a great time to get ready for Elf on the Shelf. Get all the supplies you need and check out our Elf on the Shelf Ideas calendar so you are prepared the entire month of December.

Help Elf on the Shelf Ideas Email

Don’t become frantic. Sign up for our daily Elf on the Shelf emails. Let us bring you a new idea every day now until Christmas day. This includes acesss to our free Elf on the Shelf printables library.

If you are forgetful to move your elf, don’t forget our Elf on the Shelf Tip – tried and true, never forget to move your elf again with a little help from your phone! Also check out our creative last night ideas – ways to say Goodbye Elf on the Shelf.

Shop Elf Printables + Digital Downloads

When Does Elf on the Shelf Arrive?

The Elf on the Shelf typically returns Thanksgiving evening with the kids discovered Elf in the morning. However, the best thing about Elf is you can personalize this Christmas tradition to your family. If a few weeks works best for your home or a longer period too, that is okay. There is no rule for when should Elf on the Shelf arrive.

Why is my Elf on the Shelf not coming?

If your child is asking where did my Elf on the Shelf go, begin this process for time delay. Explain that more and more elves are trying to get out of the North Pole and there is a long line for receiving magic and exiting the Norths Pole Customs line. Ask your to write Santa. They can ask Santa for Elf to be moved to the front of the line for arrival. You can also explain the need to be patient.

When Elf does arrive, it is going to be great because we have some amazing Elf on the Shelf Arrival Ideas.

Elf on the Shelf Welcome Letter

One way to welcome Elf on the Shelf into the home is with an Elf welcome letter. This set of 6 Elf on the Shelf Arrival Letters includes three ideas for the first night as well as three Elf letters that are blank to use later in the year.

Elf on the Shelf Letters templates downloads

Elf Letters Bundle Includes:

Elf on the Shelf Hello Letter

Elf on the Shelf Letter About Jesus

Elf on the Shelf Letter from Santa

Three Blank Letters

Grab your letters to use as an Elf on the Shelf welcome letter but also throughout the entire season of Elf.

Get Set of 6 Elf Letters Bundle

Elf on the Shelf Return Ideas

If your Elf on the Shelf returns at Thanksgiving, take a look at this Elf on the Shelf Ideas for Thanksgiving. This includes Elf on the Shelf turkey ideas, Pilgrims, Native Americans, football and more.

Thanksgiving Elf on the Shelf Ideas

You can also download our Free Gobble ‘Til You Wobble Elf on the Shelf Thanksgiving Letter Board. It is such a  cute way to welcome Elf on the Shelf back and adds a cute little shake when you kids find the Elf on the Shelf Thanksgiving day or the day after.

I’m Back Elf on the Shelf

So oddly enough, our most popular from the full list of I’m Back Elf on the Shelf Ideas is our customizable I’m Back Sign . You can get it on Etsy and use it every year! Perhaps add the sign to an Elf on the Shelf Welcome Back Breakfast. That was easy!

Elf on the Shelf I'm Back Sign

Here is a fun story behind the sign. I was on 8 weeks of bed rest with my twins the year I did this Elf on the Shelf I’m Back Idea. That is my master bedroom window and I opened that window every day just to feel like I was outside. It was a miserable time. Also, I was responsible for 54 new creative Elf on the Shelf Ideas so photo shop and ordering Christmas Tradition Elf Accessories and Props on Etsy was my thing!

Elf on the Shelf Parade

Just like the New York City Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, Christmas doesn’t begin until Santa arrives. Recreate this Elf on the Shelf Parade using an Elf balloon with Santa at the end of the assembly.

This parade idea comes with a free elf on the shelf printable banner.

Elf on the Shelf Arrival Ideas

After you get through your Elf on the Shelf Ideas for arrival, it is all smooth sailing from there, especially if you get our daily Elf on the Shelf emails with new ideas. We have a list of creative Elf on the Shelf ideas for arrival from Frugal Coupon Living and around the Elf on the Shelf Pinterest community to find the best Elf on the Shelf Ideas for reintroducing Elf into the home.

FedEx Package

Has the snow been too much. Is the weather making Elf’s travel from the North Pole difficult, Elf might come via a FedEx package. | The Lunchbox Memoirs

Airplane Arrival

If you have a toy airplane, plugin Christmas lights and give Elf the ultimate Runway Landing. The Christmas lights landing strip help the airplane find the way! | Pinterest Source

Super Hero Welcome Note

Have a super hero fan. Welcome your Elf with a free Elf on the Shelf welcome letter. | A Worthey Read

Hot Air Balloon Arrival

Up, up and away with this Hot Air Balloon Elf on the Shelf arrival idea. | Frugal Coupon Living

First Night Note

Use your letter board and write a message like the Elf on the Shelf note, Guess who is back. Letter board are great for writing messages all season long. make sure you check out our miniature Felt Letter Boards for Elf on the Shelf in the store. you can use anew one each day. | Natural Beach Living

Elf Thanksgiving Arrival

Just when you are about to take that next bite of turkey, you notice it. Elf on the Shelf in the Thanksgiving flower arrangement. | Frugal Coupon Living

See a huge list for more Elf on the Shelf Thanksgiving Arrival Ideas.

First Night Elf on the Shelf Ideas

We you excited about the above first night Elf on the Shelf Ideas – no?! Keep scrolling for more First Day Elf on the Shelf Ideas. Fly in on Santa mail, come in as a Thanksgiving Elf Turkey costume, arrive down the chimney with a message. More ideas below!

Chimney Parachute Arrival

Why come through the front door, the chimney is so much easier. Elf Parachutes in with a sweet Elf note from Santa! | Carey Pace

Turkey Costume

If your Elf comes around Thanksgiving, turn him into a Thanksgiving turkey (the uncooked kind!) This is an easy DIY Elf on the Shelf Costume. | Frugal Coupon Living

Paper Airplane Arrival

Elf on the Shelf express mail from Santa – you remember how to fold a paper airplane, right? | Frugal Coupon Living

Welcome Breakfast

Have an Elf on the Shelf welcome breakfast. Remember elf loves pancakes, syrup, candy, syrup, spaghetti… oh and syrup! | Ice Cream Off Paper Plates

Balloon Arrival

I’m back! Elf returns with balloons and a message. Use Christmas wrapping paper to write your message. Be prepared to not sit in that chair all day unless you use our North Pole Elf on the Shelf moving grippers. | Pinterest Source

Elf on the Shelf Package

Special Delivery! Elf Brings the front porch packages. We found miniature packages at Hobby Lobby but Etsy has a cute selection. | Frugal Coupon Living

Welcome Elf on the Shelf

We have more welcome Elf on the Shelf ideas. Ideas for the yard, using gumdrops, a package and even an magic Elf on the Shelf door!

Elf Arrival Package

You’ve got mail! Elf on the Shelf arrives in a package – just poke a hole and have his/her head poke through. | Instagram Source

I’m Back Candy Message

Spell out an Elf on the Shelf first night message using gumdrops or M&Ms (or other candy) – I’m Back!| Frugal Coupon Living

Thanksgiving Pilgrim Elf

Is it Thanksgiving? Elf and his friend can return as Thanksgiving Pilgrims in this first night Elf on the Shelf idea. | Frugal Coupon Living

Mischievous Elf on the Shelf Idea

If you have a mischievous elf, arrive with the message – Let the games begin! It’s  warning the Naughty Elf on the Shelf behavior might be beginning. | Source

Elf on the Shelf I’m Back Yard Sign

Spell it out with a yard sign.  Yep, you can buy these! This might be the priciest Elf on the Shelf arrival idea, but man would it make a statement! | Card My Yard

Elf on the Shelf Door

You know fairy doors, well they also sell Elf magic doors – have your Elf enter the home using and Elf on the Shelf door. | Frugal Coupon Living

DIY Ornament Wreath Dollar Tree

Elf on the Shelf DIY Dollar Tree Ornament

For something frugal and cheap, make a DIY Ornament wreath for Elf on the Shelf. In just a short craft sprint, make this Dollar Tree Elf on the Shelf return wreath. This adorable idea comes from the adorable Elf on the Shelf duo, JamesandHolly.eots on Instagram.

Elf on the Shelf Advent Calendar

Another idea is to have your Elf bring the first of 24 Elf on the Shelf Advent Calendar Bible verses. They come in easy to read Christmas Scriptures that tell the story of Christ’s birth.

Return Elf on the Shelf Ideas for the First Night

Free Elf Printables

We love sharing Elf on the Shelf free printables! Get all of our free Elf on the Shelf printables by entering your email address below. A link and password will arrive in your inbox!

Free Elf Printables Step by Step Directions

1.) Enter your email address here.

2.) Look for a confirmation email in your inbox and confirm you requested a sign up.

3.) We will send you a Free Printables Welcome Email with link and passcode to all of our free printables.

4.) Enter your passcode at the top of the page here and click “Access Printables”

5. Enjoy your Elf on the Shelf Printables.

Elf Store Printables

We also have a Elf printables store to create the EASIEST Elf season ever! Download and print many of our popular Elf pritnables. Go from frantic to enjoying the season with a stress free season where we provide all the Elf on the Shelf ideas you need.

Shop Elf Printables + Digital Downloads

Elf on the Shelf Social Media

Save these ideas because you will want to stay up to date on these ideas each Christmas season. We do our best to mix up easy and hard Elf on the Shelf Ideas.

Elf on the Shelf Facebook Page

Multiple ideas are added each day to our Elf on the Shelf Ideas Facebook page. This is a great way for you to share your own Elf on the Shelf Ideas and share our ideas to your page. There are some good ones! Be sure to like the page!

Elf on the Shelf Pinterest Boards

We also are in charge of a Elf on the Shelf Ideas Pinterest board. On this board, we have invited other bloggers to share their ideas and free Elf on the Shelf Printables too! Be sure to follow the board!

Our goal, to make Elf easy for you!

Elf on the Shelf in a Balloon

Welcoming Elf back? Also see how to EASILY trap Elf on the Shelf in a Balloon (in under 10 minutes!) Pin to Pinterest.

Elf on the Shelf Free Printables

Enjoy this amazing list of Free Elf on the Shelf Printables. Pin to your printable, Christmas, and Elf on the Shelf boards.

The Largest List of Elf on the Shelf Ideas

Also stay with us all season long as we share our daily Elf on the Shelf Ideas! Hundreds of ideas for every night of the week! Pin to Pinterest on your Elf on the Shelf and Christmas boards.



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.

How to Make an Igloo

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by Filed Under: Crafts, DIY, Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, Social Media

published date: November 30, 2021
modified datt: November 30,2021

Your beginners guide for how to make an igloo. Using a few handy tools and lots of creativity, create a DIY Snow Igloo with beautiful easy DIY stained-glass windows made from ice blocks.

Easy Igloo - DIY Backyard Snow Cave

If you live in an area where winter means snow days, making an igloo is a fun way to spend some family time. It keeps the kids busy and because it takes time, they will be delighted to see how hard work pays off!

Wondering if an igloo for kids is right for your family or area of the country? You don’t have to live the artic tundra or even Canada to build this backyard snow dome. Just make sure you have enough snow and the the perfect temperatures. This easy and simple igloo was created in Kentucky… you hoped I would say Florida, right?! Sorry only sand castles and beach games for you Sunshine State!

Did you know there’s a technique to making a really great igloo? In this blog post we’re going to learn the best techniques and how to make an igloo for kids. Let’s get started!

How to Make an Igloo Out of Snow

You may be wondering how to build an igloo, especially if this is your first time. These beginners guide directions will help you make a great play structure your kids will love! It’s a great snowy day project this winter that the whole family can participate in too!

Supplies

  • Aluminum Foil Bread Pans (We used about 60 loaf pans that we picked up here. Also check your Dollar Tree)
  • Snow
  • Water
  • Cold Weather
  • Gloves
  • Shovel
  • Buckets
  • Optional: Food coloring
  • Optional: Snow saw


How to Make an Igloo out of snow

Preparation

To prepare for your project, wait for a day with enough snow and for a forecast where the temperatures will be below freezing for consecutive days in a row. This project does time take time and patience so you need consecutive days that are below freezing so you can get to your finished project.

As soon as the snow falls, get started freezing your blocks.  The best way to make an igloo is to use crunchy snow that’s cold and wet. Not only will it be easier to pack, but you’ll get a better structure when your igloo is done.

How long does it it take to build an igloo?

As they say, Rome was not built in a day! Since building a solid igloo building takes time, make sure you have a forecast where there consecutive days of a freezing temperatures. Using about 60 bread tins for snow bricks, it took 3 days to build a solid igloo snow shelter.

In addition, the best igloo snow is often found after the first day. Fresh snow is no good, it’s far too powdery and weak. So enjoy that dry snow when it falls but know that older snow is more crunchy. Using a wet snow mix is a lot easier to form into shapes like snowballs, snowmen and igloo building blocks. However, that doesn’t mean, you can’t began making your bricks until the perfect packing powder comes.

Make Snow Bricks

DIY Snow Bricks with Food Coloring

Fill disposable bread tins with water to make ice “bricks” for the base. To make the traditional igloo blocks more fun, add food coloring for different colored bricks.  The colored ice will make a cool look when the sun shines through your igloo. Set the tins outside and let them freeze until they are solid.

Draw a Circle

While your snow blocks are forming, make a circle on the ground tundra (aka backyard) ground. In our igloo, the diameter was about 6 feet. Leave approximately about a two foot opening the circle for your entrance tunnel and doorway. Just like the Inuit still do it in the North, laying your snow blocks in a spiral is the best way to create a solid dome structure.

Using your shovel, gathering buckets of snow or an pile of snow to be used later for brick packing.

Lay Your Igloo Foundation

DIY Igloo Spiral Circle Base

Remove your snow bricks from the mold and form your base layer of the igloo with your colorful ice bricks, leaving an opening for the door.

Gather a shovel and some cold, crunchy snow from nearby in buckets or large organization bins. Pack the snow on top of the ice bricks, letting the snow fill in the cracks. 

Cement Your Walls with Packed Snow

DIY backyard Igloo

Pack down the first layers of snow blocks with gloved hands or a plastic snow shovel. Packing down loose snow on your blocks of snow will make your igloo strong and sturdy.

Continue adding bricks to your structure, packing each one down before you add the next layer. Make sure that no snow blocks are sticking out at weird angles by using your shovel. If needed, bevel the edges with a snow saw or use a tool to cut off any excess blocks after packing them down.

Hose it down

When all your bricks have been laid down, hose it down or pour some water on top. Careful not to saturate your existing igloo. Your goal is to add just enough water to freeze it in place. This is like adding wet glue and then allowing it to dry.

Repeat the Steps

How to make an igloo

Repeat the process of freezing your blocks. Layering more ice blocks. Finally adding packed snow and water to freeze and form your snow cave.

Check out your work! Do you see any odd angles or weak spots? Use your shovel and snow saw as necessary to make improvements before letting the structure dry and harden. Make sure that all the blocks are packed down securely so you have a strong, sturdy igloo. Smooth out any cracks by adding packed snow and a bit of water to freeze.

Preserving your Snow Cave

After you’re satisfied with the structure of your igloo, leave it to dry overnight. Your igloo should last for days in the right weather, providing tons of snowy entertainment. If you begin to see cracks in crevices of your structure, repeat your steps of top power snow, packing and adding water.

If taken care of, you’ll have an awesome igloo that will make a fun activity on cold winter days!

For wintery fun, use flameless candles inside of the igloo and have a glowing dinner under the stars. Perhaps crawl in your entry way and have a hot cocoa treat and a fun book before bed.

I hope this beginners blog post helps give you some ideas on how to make an igloo with your kids or family.

Igloo Safety Tips: Stoves and fires are not recommended for the inside of smaller igloos without air holes.  A simple doorway should provide enough air so that ventilation holes do not need to be added to your backyard igloo. Please note that snow houses can collapse from poor snow conditions, increase in air temperature from body heat, failure to let the mound harden enough, or from people climbing on top of the igloo dome.

Have fun this winter and stay safe!

More fun winter activities:

If you are loving the colder weather and the white ground covering, take a look at these Snow Day Ideas and snow activities for kids. Pin to Pinterest.

As a former Floridian, turned winter enthusiast, take a look at these Winter Hacks for keeping you and your home warm. So many good nuggets of information. Pin to Pinterest.

Our Pinterest community and I would love to see how this worked out for you. Share your final igloo.  Leave a comment here or on 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.

Warming Winter Hacks, Tips and Tricks

This post may contain affiliate links or ads. Read my privacy policy and disclosure policy here.

by Filed Under: Facebook, Hacks, Instagram, Pinterest, Social Media

published date: January 26, 2020
modified datt: November 30,2021

Winter Hacks, Tips and Tricks. These Warming winter life hacks will have you embracing the colder months. Tips from a Floridian who learned to survive ice, freezing rains, and blizzards.

Winter Hacks, Tips and Tricks

Winter Hacks and Tips

I lived in Florida for well over 30 years. We had a snow flurries, twice in my entire life. When I moved from Florida to Virginia, I immediately battled one of their biggest blizzards ever (alone, without my husband) and just with the kids. Shoveling my car out of the snow took five hours. I felt like I learned a lot in that first six months, but as I became a Virginia local, I became lazy. Laziness lead to the stupidest decision I ever made – I drove with snow on top of my car!  The windshield was cleaned, but I though I could keep the snow on the roof o my car. It was dumb but it was a quick run to the kids school. I pulled out of my driveway on a busy road, went a little down hill and the entire roof of snow slid down my car. The inside of my car became black as if it was night. I could not see out of my front window as it was covered by 6 inches of snow. I was at an intersection, and I was blind. I immediately looked around for something to get rid of this snow. There was nothing. Not even a pencil or a pen.

Winter Auto Hack

Since then, I put a snow brush/ice scrapper in my car. This goes around with me 365 days a year. I will never leave home without it again because I luckily lived in that moment. I will always be prepared scrapping my car in the morning and having one with me, should snow accumulate when I am out.


This is my fifth winter in Virginia. I have learned a lot of Winter Hacks and Tips that I now want to share with you. It was these life hacks that pulled me through winter after winter. Learning through my mistakes, I hope that you find them helpful too to prevent your own mistakes!


Winter Life Hacks

Below are a bunch of Life Hacks to help you get through winter. Whether born in Florida or born in the mountains of the Rockies, we can all benefit with a few tips and tricks to get us through the coldest and snowiest months of the year!

Best Snow Life hack: Use non-stick cooking spray on the snow shovel to keep it free from sticky clumps. Not once will you have to knock clods off and every scoop is easily emptied. | Source

Salt is real, you guys. I have never looked at salt the same until I moved to the north. Instead of lugging a heavy bag of deicer out to the sidewalk, here’s a great solution! Make a “sidewalk salt shaker” from a big plastic coffee container. Poke 1/4-in. holes in the lid and fill it with salt, sand, cat litter, and/or deicer and shake away

Organize hats, gloves, scarfs and other winter accessories with a Over the Door Shoe Hanging Organizer. | Blue i Style


Frozen locks and ice covered windshields. “We are not in Florida anymore,” is what i tell myself every January! This 2 Ingredient Instant De-Icer Spray is your winter solution. | Six Cleaver Sisters

When a big snow is headed your way, lift your windshield wipers. Additionally, cover them with socks. Socks will keep ice off the wipers and will help your de-icing process in the morning.

Expect mud and water to come through the house when the kids come in from the snow. Toss all the outer layer clothes immediately in the dryer (don’t worry about washing) or hang wet snow clothes on a swing out drying rack by the door. | Source


Water-proofing your feet! You might laugh, but this is a thing! Put plastic bags on your feet under your boots (over your wool socks) to keep your feet dry!  | Wonder Bread on Twitter

Want to save on heating and cooling? Did you know Aluminum foil on windows in winter acts as an insulator. If that kills your curb appeal, consider using it to cover windows that are not as obvious, perhaps small attic windows or basement windows. Even consider windows that face the woods or backyard.

Warm hands are everything! You can buy a reusable hand warmer. I suggest keeping these by the door for snow days or outdoor adventures. If you get the disposable hand warmers, you can keep more hands warm than just one!


Loose power in the winter? Use your washer as a cooler! Just add ice (or snow!) If it melts, you will not have to worry about the drainage! (Then again, you can move everything out to the snow too!)

Speaking of power going out, the same solar lights that light up your yard and be used indoors for light. Charge during the day by the window and use them at night to see! | Ever Never Again

Mind blown – Kitchen Tupperware creates snow bricks! You guys, I went and bought a snow brick maker (Grrrr!) | Source

A few drops of hand sanitizer on your key can open a frozen lock!

When you wake in the morning, immediately feel your windows, especially near the edges. The windows let the most cold air in. Create these DIY Draft Stoppers to keep the warmth in and keep the bills lower. | Kitchen Counter Chronicle

Believe it or not, there was ONE time we had to park and walk home. The snow and the hill became too much. A 3 mile trip home turned into a 2 hour drive and we couldn’t not get the rest of the half mile home. We were dressed “okay” but had we not been, it would have been a tough walk (even that half mile.) During winter, have a Winter Emergency Car Kit! This Emergency Cart Kit is great, but also have wool socks, hats, gloves, a blanket, snacks and water!

Note: Wool socks cost a lot, but they are a MUST for winter. Just realize you will wear them season after season after season! worth the investment!


The worst thing with snow, ice and salt is the entry way. I always have a stack of towels by the front door so I can quickly lay them down on the floor or clean up the floor. Also make your own DIY Pebble Filled Tray for dirty shoes and boots. | Rambling Renovators

Living in a town home has reminded us that warm air rises and cool air falls – cold basements and hot 3rd levels. If you find heat trapped in your ceiling, remember to turn the direction on your fans! Summer = counterclockwise, Winter = clockwise. | Delmar Fans

Winterizing your home? Take a look at this free printable checklist to get started! | Wholefully


Winter Life Hacks and Tricks

Snow day was a new thing to us, so we did everything creative we could! Visit these Snow Day Ideas for Kids. Pin to Pinterest.

Follow these steps for how to make an igloo out of snow! Pin to Pinterest.

Easy Igloo - DIY Backyard Snow Cave

When you come in, you want to be warm! Save these Comforting Warning Casserole Meals. 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.

Snow Day Ideas – 20 Ways to Enjoy the Snow

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by Filed Under: Crafts, DIY, Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, Seasonal, Social Media

published date: January 14, 2019
modified datt: November 30,2021

The ultimate list of snow day ideas. Over 20 snow  activities for the kids. These creative ways to have fun in the snow will be the ultimate winter boredom busters. Learn how to make an igloo out of snow, how to make snow paint and more.

Snow Day Ideas

20 Snow Day Ideas on Frugal Coupon Living

We recently moved from Florida to the DC area and snow is new to us. Other than building the snowmen, making a snow angel and sledding down a hill, I wanted to find alternative ways for my kids to have fun in this odd, little white substance. Take a look at these 20 Uses for Snow to have a list of Snow Day Ideas on your next school day off!

Also see our Winter Hacks and Tips.


How to Make An Igloo

Have fun making an ice castle with step by step tutorial, how to make an igloo out of snow.

Photo directions of How to Make An Igloo using ice blocks

This outdoor igloo with ice blocks took about 3 days and a lot of patience. It also used about 40 meatloaf pans (just grab at the Dollar Store or your local grocery store.) Lay out your pans with water and a few drops of food coloring. Once the ice hardens, pop the ice out of the pans and form your igloo shape.

Once you get the shape of your ice igloo, fill in the cracks with snow. Continue to make molds, let the harden and add more ice bricks to your igloo. Keep adding snow in the racks as your cement. Repeat the process until you have an igloo made out of snow and ice. When you are finish, add alight inside at night for a magic light display.

More Snow Activities for Kids

Paint the Snow with this Snow Paint Recipe from One Little Project

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Make a Snowball with this Snowball Maker on Amazon on Amazon

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You can also make an Ice Sculpture from Happy Hooligans

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Make Ice Lanterns from Thinly Spread

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Bake up some Maple Syrup Snow Taffy from Back to Her Roots

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Have Melted Snowman Race from Toddler Approved

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Make Snow Ice Cream with this recipe from Gimme Some

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Make an Outdoor Ice Ornament or Suncatcher (also fun with twig, berry, and holly inside) from Tracy Lynn Conway 

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You can also Feed the Birds with this Bird Ice Ornament from Hello Natural

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Make a Snow Volcano from Science Sparks

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Make a Frozen Bubble from Shawna Cornado

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Make an Ice Cave from Zing Zing Tree

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Make Water Balloon Snow Marbles from Fertilome

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Play Tic-Tac-Snow from Parents.com

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Track Animals in the Snow with this chart from Penelopedia

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Create Snowshoe Monster Feet from Apartment Therapy

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Potato Heads in the Snow from Happy Hooligans

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Melting Snow Art from Housing a Forest

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Bake Snow Muffins from Crunchy Rock

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Make a car Snow Face (source unknown)

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Don’t forget this Snow Day Survival Kit we shared with you in our 31 DIY Christmas Gift Ideas from DIY Mommy.

Snow-Day-Survival-Kit-DIY-Christmas-Gift-by-The-DIY-Mommy-smaller


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Take a look at these Winter Hacks and Tips. Pin to Pinterest.

Want to hang in doors? Check out these Melted Snowmen Cookies. Pin to Pinterest.

Melting-Snowmen-Cookies-Frugal-Coupon-Living Small

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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.

Elf on the Shelf Getting Married

This post may contain affiliate links or ads. Read my privacy policy and disclosure policy here.

by Filed Under: Christmas, Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, Social Media, The Elf on the Shelf Ideas

published date: November 30, 2021
modified datt: November 30,2021

She said yes. From the ring pop proposal to the Elf wedding, this Elf on the Shelf is getting married!. New creative, funny, and original Elf on the Shelf Ideas daily.

Want new Elf on the Shelf Ideas in your inbox daily in the month of November & December? Sign up here!

We are back, so is the Elf on the Shelf! If you have been with us a long time, you know we have brought you a new Elf on the Shelf Ideas daily (in the months of November and December) for the past seven years. You can view our Elf on the Shelf Master List for a full list of ideas including every idea we have ever done.

We’ve established if an Elf can have a family? We’ve talked about If an Elf can have a baby… what about, can Elf get married?

Can Elf on the Shelf Get Married?

If Elf has found love, why not have an Elf wedding? Elf can get married when he has fun his true love. Many of the true loves Elves have found include Barbie, Disney Princesses and even girl Elf dolls.

Of course before Elf on a Shelf gets married, Elf must have a wedding proposal. The perfect Elf wedding is usually preceded by the perfect ring  – a candy ring pop! They produce the biggest rock ever!

Elf of the Shelf Marriage Proposal Idea

First comes the proposal, then comes marriage, then comes the Elf baby. Before we begin baby making and baby planning, let’s talk about the Elf on the Shelf proposal idea.

In this Elf on the Shelf proposal idea, Elf gets on one knee and “she says yes!”

Elf on the shelf proposal and wedding

Elf on the Shelf Supplies


How to Create an Elf on the Shelf Proposal

He went to Jared and She Said Yes!

For this Elf wedding ideas, make sure you have an elf that can bend. You can do that easily with our Bendable Elf on the Shelf tutorial. Even with a bendable Elf, you might have to use Elf Props to help you get your elf to stay in a kneeling position.

In our case, to prop our Elf in a proposal potion (i.e. down on one knee) we used a clear jar and some clear tape. You child might ask about it but explain it off as Elf wanting “to make sure he wasn’t touched…” and then go into detail on how he must have been stressing his magic would be erased on his engagement day by falling over and you touching him…. (eventually you will bore your child to death with this very tall tale.)

Once you have your Elf on the Shelf on a knee, stage a “she said yes” sign. Place heart candy canes around the proposal. Place your Barbie in place. A Barbie doll stand might be helpful for staging. Otherwise, put her in front of a clear glass too, you can even tie her with a fishing line.

Elf on the Shelf Wedding Clothes

Next you are going to need Elf on the Shelf Wedding Clothes. Look for an Elf on the Shelf wedding dress and tuxedo to take this to the next level. The idea doesn’t have to come the next day. In fact, you can even wait until the next year as most engagements to wedding don’t take place in just a few weeks – right? What would be be teaching our kids.

Take a look at these cute places to buy Elf on the Shelf wedding dresses and tuxedos

Also make sure to go through your Barbie Wedding clothes – they will be incredibly helpful for staging this Elf wedding idea.

When you begin to plan his Elf wedding, it’s important to grab a wedding photographer and wedding planner (unless you can take on a wedding of this magnitude alone.)

Take a look at Polar Square Designs who has planned everything from the ring bearer (the official Elf on the Shelf reindeer pet) to the wedding getaway car.

Elf on the Shelf Printables

Our most popular Elf on the Shelf printables can be found in our Elf Store. Shop Elf costumes, our Elf Twister board, Jokes for Kids, our Magic Shrinking Machine and so much more!

Shop Elf Printables + Digital Downloads

Free Elf Printables

We also love sharing Elf on the Shelf free printables! With this Elf wedding idea, wouldn’t it be really cute to pair this free Elf printable – I love you candy cane note.

Get all of our free Elf on the Shelf printables by entering your email address below. Look for an email to confirm you signed up. Once you confirm, look for a second email in your inbox with a link and password!

Free Printables Step by Step Directions

1.) Enter your email address here.

2.) Look for a confirmation email in your inbox and confirm you requested a sign up.

3.) We will send you a Free Printables Welcome Email with link and passcode to all of our free printables.

4.) Enter your passcode at the top of the page here and click “Access Printables”

5. Enjoy your Elf on the Shelf Printables.

Elf on the Shelf on Social Media

Save these ideas because you will want to stay up to date on these ideas each Christmas season. We do our best to mix up easy and hard Elf on the Shelf Ideas.

Elf on the Shelf Facebook Page

Multiple ideas are added each day to our Elf on the Shelf Ideas Facebook page. This is a great way for you to share your own Elf on the Shelf Ideas and share our ideas to your page. There are some good ones! Be sure to like the page!

Elf on the Shelf Pinterest Boards

We also are in charge of a Elf on the Shelf Ideas Pinterest board. On this board, we have invited other bloggers to share their ideas and free Elf on the Shelf Printables too! Be sure to follow the board!

Our goal, to make Elf easy for you!

What is Elf on the Shelf?

Elf on the Shelf is a Christmas Tradition. The tradition has a book and a elf doll. The book is poetic and in rhyme sharing the purpose of the Elf’s visits. The Elf visits each Thanksgiving. He/She goes and returns from the North Pole each evening. Every morning he can be found in a new location in the house. The Elf has been found in the refrigerator, fishing in the toilet, writing messages on the mirror or hanging from the lights. It is VERY IMPORTANT, the Elf is not touch each evening or his Christmas magic will be lost! Each family is able to name their special elf. The elves return to their home (Santa’s North Pole Work shop) every Christmas Eve. An Elf’s Story can also be found on DVD.


Share-Post-on-Pinterest-Frugal-Coupon-Living

Don’t forget all of our daily Elf on the Shelf Ideas. Pin to Pinterest on your Christmas and Elf Boards.

Elf on the Shelf Ideas

We have been doing Elf on the Shelf forever. See our Elf on the Shelf Master List. Pin to Pinterest.

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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.

Elf on the Shelf Postcard Printable

This post may contain affiliate links or ads. Read my privacy policy and disclosure policy here.

by Filed Under: Christmas, Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, Printable, Social Media, The Elf on the Shelf Ideas

published date: June 08, 2019
modified datt: November 29,2021

Grab your Elf on the Shelf Postcard printable. Send a note from the beach or the North Pole. Are you following all of Frugal Coupon Living’s Elf on the Shelf Ideas? See well over 100s of creative, funny, and original ideas for your Elf! 

Shop Elf Postcards + Digital Downloads

Elf on the Shelf Postcard – Free Printable

We have brought you a new Elf on the Shelf Ideas EVERY DAY (in November and December) for the past six years. During summer, we miss you. The warm temperatures give us a lonely feeling and we wanted to wave hello from the beach or North Pole.

Send a post card from your elf this summer, giving your little one a greeting from the sand and shore or just outside Santa’s workshop up north.

Elf on the Shelf Postcards

We have a number of Elf on the Shelf Postcards.

Supplies Needed:

Directions:

Print your postcard and cut the front and back of the postcard out.  Write your message and address your postcard. Use a gluemstick to stick the front and back of the postcard together. Trim the edges as needed so the card aligns perfect. Add a stamp and send in the mail to your child.


Shop our Elf Postcards Digital Downloads

Free Elf on the Shelf Printables

We also love sharing freebies! See all of our free Elf on the Shelf printables including our Beach Scene Elf on the Shelf Idea.

Enter your name and email below and look for a link and password in your inbox.

By downloading you are accepting the terms that this is for personal, non-commercial use. Please contact Frugal Coupon Living with any questions.

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!

I like to order my prints at Staples. It saves on ink and is only a few short miles from my home. I pick-up at the store, but of course you can upload them online and then have them shipped to your home.

To Order Your Printables at Staples*:

  1. Download and save your image from this post.  (Please note these images are for personal use only and cannot be sold or used for commercial use.)
  2. Sign in or create a Staples account on their print service page.
  3. Return to Staples print service page.
  4. Go to Start Project.
  5. Go to Documents Printing. Select Browse.
  6. Select the Buy Now Button under color.
  7. On the left column, choose add file.
  8. Select upload.
  9. Select done.
  10. Give your job a name.
  11. Make sure your project is single sided. The orientation should be portrait.
  12. I changed my media to 8.5×10 and the media to 67 lb cover stock (I prefer a card stock feel over printer paper feel.)
  13. Select add to cart.
  14. Proceed to checkout. You can choose to ship to your home or to pick up at your local store. Pay online and show your invoice when you pick up (I just show the order number on my phone at pick-up.) The order invoice will arrive in your email inbox.
  15. Enjoy!

*Note: these Staple print service steps were added in Summer 2019 The directions may change as the website changes. They should give you a general outline of how to upload and order a print on Staples.com.

How To Order from Postable

If you want to ship a postcard form Postable, sign up today.  You can $5 off any order of $20. Use promo code MRK8UR86JF at checkout. I use this service for thank you notes, Father’s Day cards, thinking of you notes, and I uploaded my Elf on the Shelf postcard too. Upload your own image (or our digital download Elf postcard images.) and create a 4×6 postcard. They will ship your postcard/card, just address it to your recipient.

Our goal is to make Elf on the Shelf easy for you! Be sure to also follow our Elf on the Shelf Pinterest Board for fun ideas from Frugal Coupon Living other bloggers too.

If you missed a summer greeting, you still have time to send an Elf on the Shelf Back to School Postcard. Pin to Pinterest.

What is Elf on the Shelf?

Elf on the Shelf is a Christmas Tradition. The tradition has a book and a elf doll. The book is poetic and in rhyme sharing the purpose of the Elf’s visits. The Elf visits each Thanksgiving. He/She goes and returns from the North Pole each evening. Every morning he can be found in a new location in the house. The Elf has been found in the refrigerator, fishing in the toilet, writing messages on the mirror or hanging from the lights. It is VERY IMPORTANT, the Elf is not touch each evening or his Christmas magic will be lost! Each family is able to name their special elf. The elves return to their home (Santa’s North Pole Work shop) every Christmas Eve. An Elf’s Story can also be found on DVD.



Share-Post-on-Pinterest-Frugal-Coupon-Living

Don’t forget all of our daily Elf on the Shelf Ideas. Pin to Pinterest on your Christmas and Elf Boards.

Elf on the Shelf Ideas

We love printables – especially free ones! Be sure to save these Free Elf on the Shelf Printables. Pin to Pinterest your Elf on the Shelf and Christmas Pinterest Boards.

Make sure you say good-bye. Look at these creative Goodbye Elf on the Shelf Ideas. Pin to Pinterest your Elf on the Shelf and Christmas Pinterest Boards.

Online you can find ENDLESS Elf on the Shelf Accessories, Books, Games and Toys. We love some of the creativity coming from Etsy too! Be sure to Follow Frugal Coupon Living on Pinterest where there are many Pinterest Elf on the Shelf Ideas.

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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.