And amidst all this festive hustle and bustle, sometimes what we all need—parents and kids alike—is a moment of calm. A chance to sit together, breathe, and create something simple yet beautiful from the colors of our imaginations. That’s where our collection of FREE holiday coloring pages for Christmas comes into play.

Picture this—it’s a chilly Sunday afternoon, and you’re gathered around the dining table that’s seen more cookie crumbs and art supplies this month than actual meals. The kettle whistles, filling the room with warmth as your favorite holiday playlist hums softly in the background. In front of you are ten beautifully simple, black line drawings, each one a canvas waiting for its splash of color.

These coloring pages are designed for little hands—and maybe for the grown-up ones that need a break too. They’re uncomplicated, leaving plenty of space for creativity to flow without the constraints of a paint-by-numbers approach. And the best part? They’re a delightful distraction, giving you those precious moments to focus on wrapping gifts or sneaking in a few sips of hot cocoa before it gets cold.

Coloring isn’t just about keeping the kids busy. It’s an activity that brings with it a host of benefits—ones that are especially welcome during the stress of the holiday season. It fosters creativity, improves motor skills, and helps children focus, all while offering parents a much-needed respite. It’s a quiet joy, like the sound of snow falling in the night or the first sip of mulled cider, weaving its magic without fanfare.

In the spirit of the season, these pages are our gift to you—a family-friendly activity that’s as heartwarming as it is simple. Download them, print them, and watch as your kitchen, living room, or classroom transforms into a kaleidoscope of festive cheer.

And perhaps, as you color alongside your little ones, you’ll find that the lines between adult and child blur, if only for a while. In those moments, coloring isn’t just an activity; it’s a memory, a pause in the holiday rush, a reminder of the simple pleasures that fill our lives with meaning.

Join our community of coloring enthusiasts today. Share your masterpieces with us using #HolidayColorWithUs and let’s spread a little more joy this season.

Happy Holidays and Happy Coloring!

Want some more coloring for adults? Try our FREE mindfulness coloring book!

The post Holiday Coloring Pages for Christmas: Fun Family Activity appeared first on Our Storied Home.

In today’s fast-paced world, stress relief is more crucial than ever. Many women are turning to mindfulness to find tranquility and maintain their mental health. If you’re searching for an easy and creative way to incorporate mindfulness into your daily routine, our free Mindfulness Coloring Book with Writing Prompts is the perfect solution.

What is Mindfulness?

Mindfulness is the practice of focusing your attention on the present moment without judgment. It involves being aware of your thoughts, feelings, and surroundings, which can help reduce stress and improve overall well-being. By integrating mindfulness into your life, you can increase your resilience against daily stressors.

The Benefits of Mindfulness Coloring and Writing

Mindfulness art activities, like coloring and journaling, offer an accessible entry point into mindfulness practices. Here’s why you should consider incorporating them into your routine:

1. Reduces Stress: Engaging in mindfulness worksheets or mindfulness art can help calm your mind and reduce anxiety. The repetitive motion of coloring or writing allows you to escape from daily pressures and focus on the present moment.

2. Encourages Creativity: Mindfulness color pages stimulate your creativity, allowing you to express yourself freely without fear of judgment. This creative freedom can lead to a greater sense of personal satisfaction and joy.

3. Improves Focus and Concentration: Mindfulness exercises, such as journal mindfulness and coloring, require sustained attention. With regular practice, these activities can improve your concentration and help you become more attentive in other areas of your life.

4. Enhances Emotional Well-being: Writing mindfulness journal prompts encourages self-reflection and emotional exploration. This practice can help you process your emotions, leading to improved mental clarity and emotional balance.

What’s Inside Our Free Mindfulness Coloring Book

Our Mindfulness Coloring Book includes a variety of mindfulness worksheets and prompts designed to nurture your mental health and creativity:

• Mindfulness Color Pages: Beautiful, intricate designs that invite you to immerse yourself in the calming world of colors.
• Journal Mindfulness Prompts: Thought-provoking questions and ideas that encourage self-reflection and personal growth.

How to Get Started

Ready to begin your mindfulness journey? Download our FREE Mindfulness Coloring Pages & Prompts and start experiencing the benefits today. Fill out the short form below. Simply set aside a few moments each day to color, write, and reflect.

Join Our Mindful Community

We invite you to share your coloring and journaling experiences with us on social media. Connect with other mindfulness seekers and exchange tips on how to make the most of your mindfulness practice. Use the hashtag #MindfulArtJourney to join the conversation.

Incorporating mindfulness into your daily routine doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. With our free Mindfulness Coloring Book, you can effortlessly blend creativity and mindfulness to enhance your mental well-being. Download your copy today and take the first step toward a more peaceful, present you.

There are more products on the way that are in the niche of mindfulness, wellness and self-care, so be on the lookout in the coming weeks. Almost finished with a self-care workbook, followed by a self-care kit, with TONS of resources for a calmer soul and restful spirit.

Need Some Supplies?

If you want to get started coloring, but don’t have any idea what kind of colored pencils to purchase, we like Soucolor 72-Color **Colored Pencils for Adult Coloring Books. Looking for a journal or notebook for your pages? Click on the links for our recommendations.

** I have included affiliate links for your convenience. What does this mean? If you decide to buy, I will earn a small commission off your purchase at no cost to you. That income helps me keep this blog up and running. If you’d like to learn more, here’s my full disclosure. 

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I love this recipe for mini meatloaf  because it doesn’t require a lot of ingredients and it’s so easy. It can be messy, which is why I tend to make a lot at once. No matter how many I make, they don’t last for long!

In a bowl or 8 cup measuring cup*, beat the egg and milk. Stir in cheese, oats, onion, salt and minced or crushed garlic. Add ground beef and mix well. This is where it tends to get messy — I use my hands to mix everything. It’s just easier for me and I think it does a more thorough job. Shape into eight loaves; place in greased baking dish. You can also place in mini loaf pans. Two “mini loaves” can fit into each of my mini loaf pans.

Combine ketchup, brown sugar and mustard. Spoon over loaves. If you like, you can add some more shredded cheese on top of your mini meatloaves. Sometimes I do, sometimes not. It usually depends on how much cheese I have.

Bake uncovered at 350 degrees for 45 minutes or until the meat is no longer pink.

*There are affiliate links in this post. If you click on a link and make a purchase, I will receive a small commission at no cost to you. Thank you for supporting small business!

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Ready to make your Thanksgiving table even more special without breaking the bank? We have just the solution for you—  Our Storied Home’s Thanksgiving place cards printable! Here’s how to use them and where to get started.

Creating professional-looking place cards has never been easier. Here’s how you can prepare your Thanksgiving place cards in just a few simple steps:

1. Download and Print – Choose your favorite design from our collection and download the PDF. Use sturdy card stock for best results.
2. Cut – Carefully cut along the lines to separate each place card. I use a small paper cutter to make sure my lines are straight.
3. Fold – Fold each card in half along the center line to create a tent shape.
4. Personalize – Write your guests’ names in the spaces provided. You can use a calligraphy pen for an elegant touch, or keep it simple with a regular pen.

The best part? These beautiful Thanksgiving place cards are entirely free. Simply download, print, and enjoy! It’s our way of helping you create memorable moments with loved ones.

Thanksgiving is a wonderful time to express gratitude and make your guests feel cherished. With our free printable place cards, you can add a thoughtful touch to your holiday table without any added cost. Ready to start crafting? Download your free Thanksgiving place cards today and get ready to impress your guests with your attention to detail. Wishing you a delightful and joyful Thanksgiving celebration!

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DIY Ghost Lanterns

With so many people having access to devices such as Cricut, making your own pumpkins, monsters, ghosts or goblins is a breeze!  If that’s not an option, cut out the eyes and mouth from construction paper and tape onto *white paper lanterns. You can also use felt and they might hold up a little better if you want to use again next year. If you want to add the sheer fabric like in the photo above for your ghosts, you can purchase it from Amazon.

Pumpkin Candle Holders

Halloween Garland

Below are just a few ideas for Halloween garland. You may be able to purchase some pre-cut items, so you only have to do is assembly. This is another project for the Cricut if you have one. You can use your Cricut like a die cutter and cut out everything you need for some super cute Halloween garland.

Creepy Candle Jars

Click on the links below the photos for tutorials on these projects.

Finishing Touches

• Lighting is key for setting a spooky atmosphere. Consider swapping standard bulbs for orange or purple ones to cast an eerie glow.
• Sound Effects like creaky doors or distant howls playing softly in the background can elevate the haunted house experience.

With your Halloween Decor for Home, your home will be the talk of the neighborhood this Halloween. Gather your crafting supplies and get ready to create some haunted holiday magic! Enjoy your decorating and have a frightfully fun Halloween!

*This post contains Amazon affiliate links. If you click on a link that takes you to Amazon and make a purchase, we receive a small commission at no cost to you.

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Before my mom passed away, she took all her most-used recipes and designed two sets of recipe cards — one for me and one for my brother. This time of year I find myself using so many of our family recipes. It’s such a Southern thing — seeking comfort in food, seeking nostalgia in food.

It was originally going to put this in with the “recipes” category, but then I got to thinking and remembering all the years we have had Mom’s Christmas punch, all the get-togethers and family Christmases we have toasted with this punch. Since this recipe gives me all the feels, I put it under “soulful stuff”, because here lately I am feeling super nostalgic and thinking of Christmases of years gone by.

Here is Mom’s recipe for the Christmas punch she made every year. The recipe card says “Grandma’s Christmas Punch”, but I have no idea whose grandma came up with this recipe. Could be my mom’s grandma. Could be a friend of my grandma. I guess we’ll never know and I kind of like that. I did look it up and Big Red pop has been around since 1937, so that gives us about 100 years to come up with this festive holiday recipe.

Now that my parents are gone, it’s now my brother’s job to make the punch (which he does without fail because he’s the best brother ever).

I hope this recipe helps create as many fond memories as it has for my family. Happy holidays! 

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What Exactly is an Advent Calendar?

At its core, an advent calendar is a calendar used to count down the days leading up to Christmas, starting on December 1st and ending on December 24th. Each day typically features a small door or flap that reveals a hidden surprise. While classic advent calendars traditionally contain chocolate or candy treats, modern versions have expanded to include a wide range of gifts, from toys and trinkets to beauty products and teas.

The purpose of an advent calendar is to heighten the anticipation of Christmas by offering a daily reward. This ritual transforms the countdown to the holiday into a joyful daily event, especially for children. However, advent calendars have evolved over time to cater to people of all ages, providing an opportunity for families to engage in a unifying tradition.

Unwrapping the History of Advent Calendars

The tradition of advent calendars dates back to the mid-19th century in Germany. Initially, it began as a simple practice where devout Lutherans would mark off the days of Advent with chalk on their doors or walls. Over time, this evolved into more elaborate methods of counting down to Christmas, such as lighting candles or hanging religious images.

In the early 1900s, the first printed advent calendars appeared. These calendars featured doors that opened to reveal biblical scenes or images related to the Christmas story. By the 1920s, the advent calendar had gained popularity and began to include small treats behind each door. This added a delightful element of surprise and joy to the holiday tradition.

World War II caused a temporary halt in advent calendar production, as paper shortages and rationing made it difficult to produce them. However, after the war, the tradition experienced a resurgence. In the 1950s, the introduction of chocolate advent calendars became a game-changer, captivating the hearts of children and adults alike.

Exploring the Array of Advent Calendars

In today’s world, advent calendars come in an astonishing variety of forms. The traditional chocolate advent calendar remains a favorite, but there are countless innovative and creative alternatives available. One popular option is the toy advent calendar, which offers a small toy or figurine each day. These calendars are particularly popular among children, with themes ranging from LEGO sets to popular characters from movies and TV shows.

For those who prefer indulgence, beauty and skincare advent calendars provide daily samples of cosmetics and self-care products. These calendars have gained immense popularity in recent years, allowing beauty enthusiasts to discover new products each day leading up to Christmas.

Tea and coffee advent calendars are also gaining traction, offering a daily selection of different flavors and brews. This provides a cozy and soothing ritual for tea and coffee lovers to enjoy during the festive season.

The Appeal of DIY Advent Calendars

While pre-made advent calendars offer convenience and variety, some people prefer to create their own personalized versions. DIY advent calendars allow for a more tailored experience, giving individuals the opportunity to fill each day with meaningful and customized surprises. Whether it’s handwritten notes, homemade cookies, or small handcrafted gifts, a DIY advent calendar adds a personal touch to the holiday season.

Creating a DIY advent calendar can be a fun and rewarding project for families and friends. It encourages creativity and offers a chance to express love and thoughtfulness through carefully chosen surprises. Additionally, it allows for flexibility in choosing items that align with personal preferences and values.

The Role of Advent Calendars in Modern Culture

Advent calendars have become an integral part of modern holiday celebrations, transcending religious boundaries and appealing to people of all backgrounds. They bring a sense of anticipation and excitement to the holiday season, offering a delightful way to mark the days leading up to Christmas. While their origins are rooted in religious traditions, advent calendars have evolved into a universal symbol of joy and togetherness.

In recent years, advent calendars have also become a marketing tool for companies to promote their products. Many brands offer limited-edition advent calendars featuring their products, creating a sense of exclusivity and excitement among consumers. This trend has expanded beyond traditional goods, with advent calendars featuring everything from pet treats to gourmet cheeses.

Incorporating Advent Calendars into Family Traditions

For families, advent calendars provide an opportunity to create lasting memories and establish meaningful traditions. Opening a new door each day becomes a shared experience, fostering a sense of togetherness and excitement. Families can gather around the calendar, discuss the surprises behind each door, and share stories and laughter as they count down to Christmas.

Incorporating an advent calendar into your holiday traditions can also be a wonderful way to teach children about the value of patience and anticipation. It provides a tangible way for children to experience the concept of time passing and the joy of waiting for a special occasion.

Advent Calendars for Adults

While advent calendars are often associated with children, there is a growing trend of advent calendars designed specifically for adults. These calendars cater to a wide range of interests, offering everything from gourmet chocolates and fine wines to craft beers and even scented candles.

For adults, an advent calendar can be a delightful way to indulge in small pleasures during the hectic holiday season. It allows for moments of relaxation and enjoyment, providing a daily escape from the stresses of everyday life. Whether it’s savoring a piece of artisanal chocolate or enjoying a glass of fine wine, an adult advent calendar offers a luxurious and decadent experience.

Advent Calendars as Gifts

Advent calendars make for thoughtful and unique gifts, regardless of age or interests. They offer the recipient a daily dose of joy and anticipation, extending the spirit of giving throughout the entire month of December. With so many options available, it’s easy to find an advent calendar that aligns with the recipient’s preferences and passions.

Whether you’re gifting a chocolate advent calendar to a child, a beauty advent calendar to a friend, or a wine advent calendar to a colleague, these gifts are sure to bring smiles and warmth to the holiday season. They provide an opportunity to show appreciation and thoughtfulness, making the recipient feel cherished and valued.

Advent Calendars in the Digital Age

With the rise of technology and digital experiences, advent calendars have also made their way into the digital realm. Online and app-based advent calendars offer a virtual twist on the traditional concept, providing daily surprises in the form of videos, games, or interactive content.

Digital advent calendars are a great option for those who prefer a clutter-free experience or enjoy exploring new digital content. They offer a convenient way to participate in the advent tradition, allowing users to access surprises anytime and anywhere. Additionally, digital advent calendars often include bonus features, such as exclusive content or downloadable resources.

Creating Your Own Advent Calendar Tradition

If you’re inspired to start your own advent calendar tradition, the possibilities are endless. Consider the preferences and interests of your family or friends, and choose a theme that resonates with everyone. Whether it’s a classic chocolate calendar, a handmade DIY version, or a digital interactive experience, the key is to create an experience that brings joy and excitement to the holiday season.

By incorporating an advent calendar into your holiday celebrations, you can create a sense of anticipation and wonder that enhances the overall magic of the season. It’s a tradition that can be passed down through generations, creating cherished memories and fostering a sense of togetherness.

Wrapping Up the Magic of Advent Calendars

In conclusion, advent calendars are a delightful way to celebrate the holiday season and create lasting memories. From their humble beginnings in Germany to the wide array of options available today, advent calendars have evolved into a beloved tradition that transcends cultural and religious boundaries.

Whether you choose a traditional chocolate calendar, a personalized DIY version, or a digital experience, the joy and anticipation of opening a new door each day is a timeless pleasure. Advent calendars offer a daily reminder to savor the present moment, appreciate the simple joys, and share the magic of the season with loved ones.

So, why not start your own advent calendar tradition this year? The possibilities are endless, and the joy it brings is immeasurable. May your advent calendar be filled with surprises, laughter, and the warmth of the holiday spirit.

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The age of social media has given rise to a new breed of influencers, whose recommendations can make or break a product or service. With their glamorous lifestyles, impeccable style, and seemingly flawless recommendations, it’s no wonder that brands are falling over themselves to collaborate with these individuals. However, behind the perfectly curated feeds and high engagement numbers, a dark reality lurks: the rise of fake influencers.

In this article, we delve into the world of fake influencers and reveal the tell-tale signs to spot them in the vast sea of social media. From inflated follower counts to suspicious engagement metrics, we provide you with the essential tools to separate the wheat from the chaff.

But it doesn’t stop there. We also equip you with practical tips on how to avoid falling prey to these imposters, ensuring that your brand collaborations yield real results and genuine connections with engaged audiences. Don’t let the allure of fake influencers deceive you; it’s time to unmask their dark reality and protect your brand’s reputation.

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Our hygge bundle begins with 20 hygge-themed notecards that I LOVE. I suggest printing on white cardstock for a more finished look. Printing instructions are also included. Once printed you will need to cut the cards with scissors (I use a paper cutter because I cannot cut a straight line to save my life). You can print and use as a small gift, such as a hostess gift, send them to friends with a note saying you’re thinking about them, or even print them out and use the beautiful hygge-inspired images as decor at home. That’s exactly what I plan on doing. These images look great in a small frame that matches your existing decor. Some of these will be perfect for my new beach-theme vibe I’m trying to create. If you aren’t sure about what size envelopes to use with the notecards, they are just standard invitation-sized envelopes. If you aren’t sure, you can find them here.

I’ve also included five VERY simple “posters” (for lack of a better word) that will easily fit into a small frame, perfect for bookshelves and a pop of hygge inspiration.

I am so excited about this bundle and all the things I will be adding to it. We will also be featuring some new hygge-themed products that we’ll have available soon — think recipe cards, activity cards, eBooks, journal, workbook and more!

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Notecards for Adults:
Our Storied Home’s free Valentine card bundle includes 12 notecards for adults, each with a unique design and message. You can use them to write a heartfelt message to your significant other, friends, or family members. The notecards are perfect for expressing your feelings of love, appreciation, and gratitude. You can also use them as a part of your Valentine’s Day gift, by pairing them up with chocolates, flowers, or other small gifts. The designs are modern, minimalistic, and elegant, making them suitable for anyone. You will love how easy it is to print them from the comfort of your home and have them ready in no time.

Valentines for coloring and cutting:
If you have kids, you know how excited they get about Valentine’s Day. They love giving and receiving valentines from their friends, classmates, and family members. Our Storied Home’s free bundle includes 10 valentines for coloring and cutting, designed specifically for little ones. The valentines feature simple and fun designs, such as hearts, animals, and flowers. Your children will love coloring and personalizing them, and you will love how easy it is to print them at home. You can also use them as a fun family activity.

How to use the bundle:
Using Our Storied Home’s free bundle is easy. All you need to do is fill out the form (above) and you’ll receive an e-mail with the link to download and print it from the comfort of your home. The bundle comes in a PDF format, which is compatible with all printers. You can print as many copies as you need and use them for personal use only. You can use the notecards to write a message or use them as a part of your gift. You can use the valentines for your kids or for their classmates. You can even use them for decorating your home or office.

Valentine’s Day is a special day to show your love and appreciation to your loved ones. And what better way to do that than by giving them something personal and special? Download our FREE bundle TODAY!

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