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  No matter how you celebrate the holiday, it's always a great time to introduce a new and meaningful Thanksgiving tradition. If you're looking for a fresh way to make Turkey Day even more special, you're in the right place!   Thanksgiving Selfie Scavenger Hunt Struggling to keep your family off their phones during the holidays? Turn it into a fun activity! A selfie scavenger hunt can get everyone involved while keeping the focus on shared moments. Participants earn points by snapping photos with specific items from the list. The set includes 12 challenges, so the number of players will be limited, but it’s a great way to spark friendly competition and holiday cheer! Fall Bucket List Have each child create a "bucket list" of activities they'd love to do over Thanksgiving break, and turn the vacation into an adventure by checking off as many as possible. For a meaningful twist, turn it into a gratitude list, with each family member writing down things they’re thankful for. This fun and heartfelt activity can bring everyone closer while making the holiday break memorable. Write Thank You Cards Make room for gratitude during your Thanksgiving celebration by adding a personal touch. At the start of the gathering, have everyone draw names and provide them with a blank card, envelope, and pen. Ask each person to write a heartfelt message for the family member they've drawn. Afterward, collect the cards and distribute them to the recipients before everyone heads home. This simple yet meaningful gesture will leave everyone with a special reminder of the love and appreciation shared during the holiday. Flip Through Old Family Photos Add a nostalgic touch to your Thanksgiving table by displaying old family photos. Not only do they make for a charming centerpiece, but they also spark "remember when" conversations that bring the past to life. After the meal, continue the trip down memory lane by watching old family movies or flipping through photo albums. These moments are sure to bring laughter, and maybe even a few tears, as everyone reminisces about cherished memories. Take a Trip to the Tree Farm After that delicious Thanksgiving feast, head outdoors to kick off the Christmas season with a visit to a nearby Christmas tree farm. It's a great way to enjoy the fresh air and start a new holiday tradition. Bonus points if you get hands-on and chop down your own tree! It’s a fun and memorable way to bring home the perfect centerpiece for your holiday celebrations. Throw a Welcome Tailgate Create a warm and inviting atmosphere for your out-of-town guests (or just as a seasonal celebration) by hosting a casual, tailgate-style party. Serve up delicious pumpkin-themed treats and a big batch of cozy, warm apple cider. It’s the perfect way to welcome everyone, and it’s sure to become a holiday tradition that guests will look forward to year after year! Play With a Thanksgiving Piñata A confetti-stuffed turkey piñata works just as nicely as a kids' table centerpiece as it does a post-feast activity. Fill it with candies and trinkets, and everyone wins!      * * * * * References: https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/holidays/thanksgiving-ideas/g4617/thanksgiving-games/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=mgu_ga_ghk_d_bm_comm_org_us_g4617&gad_source=1&gbraid=0AAAAADA2MEqk4cavyoreMO014G6y1zPbH&gclid=Cj0KCQiA6Ou5BhCrARIsAPoTxrCJjLNbq7YUZgOfOGyvAAgflZeIwVJyb6tGMnTdj5s_co37eDPP_9saAuiWEALw_wcB   https://www.countryliving.com/life/g4688/best-thanksgiving-traditions/  

Energy-Saving Tips for Winter!   Start saving with a few quick and simple tasks that make a difference. Once those are underway, explore additional projects and investments that can lead to long-term savings. If it’s been a while since you last checked your home’s condition, consider performing an energy audit to identify opportunities for greater efficiency.   Everyday Steps to Saving Energy Make simple adjustments at home to see your energy bills shrink: Use Natural Light: Let the sun illuminate your home instead of relying on artificial lighting. Adjust Curtains Seasonally: In winter, open curtains on south-facing windows during the day to let sunlight warm your home. In summer, close curtains to block out heat and keep your home cooler. Optimize Thermostat Settings: Set your thermostat to the coolest comfortable temperature in winter and the warmest in summer. Use a programmable thermostat to automatically adjust temperatures when you're asleep, away, or on vacation for additional savings. Reduce Water Heating Costs: Lower your water heater’s maximum temperature to 120°F to save 7%–11% on energy costs while still having hot water. These small changes can add up to big savings over time!   Long-Term Energy-Saving Solutions Investing in efficiency upgrades can lead to even greater savings. Take these additional steps to help your home use less energy and save more: Upgrade Your Lighting: Switch incandescent bulbs to energy-efficient LEDs, which last up to 25 times longer and use far less energy. Improve Insulation: Check your attic and basement for proper insulation. If the insulation is level with or below the joists, add more to improve efficiency. Seal Leaks and Drafts: Caulk and weatherstrip doors and windows to prevent air leaks. Lock your windows for a tighter, draft-resistant seal. The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that reducing drafts can lower energy bills by up to 30%. Maintain Your HVAC System: Have your heating and cooling system professionally serviced annually, and replace or clean air filters monthly to keep it running efficiently. Insulate Water Heater Pipes: Cover the first 5 feet of pipe coming out of your water heater. If the exposed pipe is shorter than 5 feet, insulate the entire length. These upgrades not only cut costs but also make your home more comfortable and eco-friendly! * * * * * References: https://www.virginiaenergysense.org/tips-to-save-energy-money/at-home/tips-for-homeowners/?gad_source=1&gbraid=0AAAAA-dRaHtDwaSbnb4LM7CgAvGVzvdOn&gclid=Cj0KCQiA6Ou5BhCrARIsAPoTxrBWoX6Nspx_9hJA3QbjKb5IdZpiR6JdH5IViVv4eexhzzvKHX1tlx8aAiPsEALw_wcB