Podcasts for Kids!

Are you a fan of podcasts? Do you like listening to them when you’re out for a walk, on your way to work, or doing some housework? What about your children? Yes, your kids – do they listen to podcasts, too?

There are tons of great podcasts out there that are geared toward children – and if you haven’t shared the world of podcasts with your kids – now is the time. From science to storytelling to everything in between, podcasts for children cover a wide variety of topics – and there’s bound to be something that will grab their attention. Take a listen to these and see what your kids think.

  • Stories Podcast: A Bedtime Show for Kids of All Ages: On the Stories Podcast, we perform a new story for your children every week. The stories range from retellings of fairy tales like Snow White to classic stories like Peter Rabbit and even completely original works. Everything is G rated and safe for all ages. The perfect kids podcast for imaginative families. Whether you’re driving with your children or just want to limit your kids’ screen time, Stories Podcast delivers entertainment that kids and parents alike will love.
  • Purple Rocket Podcast: An award-winning kids podcast full of fun and adventure! Travel the world with twins Sawyer and Suzie using their Grandpa’s magical globe, explore the universe aboard the Space Train, fly with fairies, spend the summer with dinosaurs at Camp Dino, and so much more! The Purple Rocket produces exciting audio adventures the whole family can enjoy! Each season is a unique, originally written series, so find a season that sounds fun and dive in starting with episode one. Visit PurpleRocketPodcast.com to learn more.
  • Brains On! Science Podcast for Kids: Brains On!® is a science podcast for curious kids and adults from American Public Media. Each week, a different kid co-host joins Molly Bloom to find answers to fascinating questions about the world sent in by listeners. Like, do dogs know they’re dogs? Or, why do feet stink? Plus, we have mystery sounds for you to guess, songs for you to dance to, and lots of facts — all checked by experts.
  • But Why: A Podcast for Curious Kids: But Why is a show led by kids. They ask the questions and we find the answers. It’s a big interesting world out there. On But Why, we tackle topics large and small, about nature, words, even the end of the world. Know a kid with a question? Record it with a smartphone. Be sure to include your kid’s first name, age, and town and send the recording to questions@butwhykids.org!
  • Earth Rangers: Hi kids, if you think that animals are amazing, this is the show for you! Join host Earth Ranger Emma as she travels the world to discover the wildest animal facts out there and solve nature’s biggest mysteries. With top ten countdowns, an animal guessing game, conservation conversations, and epic animal showdowns, this is a journey you won’t want to miss!
  • Eleanor Amplified: Eleanor Amplified is an adventure series for the whole family. Listen together as the world-famous radio reporter Eleanor foils devious plots and outwits crafty villains, all in pursuit of the big story… Like all the public media shows you love, Eleanor Amplified is entertaining and informative. Eleanor will spark laughter and conversation the whole family will enjoy, while preparing kids to appreciate journalism and make smart media choices in the future. (no longer in production)

Why should adults have all the fun when it comes to podcasts? Introduce your children to some of these great podcasts and you’ll make them into podcast lovers, too! 

***All podcast descriptions courtesy of Apple Podcasts

Wonderful Wedding Gifts

Late spring and summer are prime…Wedding Season! And you may find that wedding invitations are making their way into your mailbox and that your calendar is filling up quickly. Of course, that also means it’s time to think about wedding gifts! What should you get the bride and groom? While cash is always popular, you may be someone who just loves to buy people presents – and there is nothing wrong with that! With that in mind, here are some wedding gifts that are sure to make anyone happy!

  • Wine Decanter with Built-In Aerator: Do the bride and groom enjoy red wine? Then why not get them a decanter that is not only beautiful to look at but will also keep their wine at its freshest? This one has a built-in aerator and has a double filter to help remove impurities. Grab a couple of bottles of wine, and you’ve got a fantastic gift.
  • Mikasa Mira 16-Piece Dinnerware Set, Service for 4: Nowadays, couples are avoiding formal china and dishes, and opting for dinnerware that can be used every day. This stoneware set from Mikasa is modern and is comprised of wonderful shades of blue – and it can definitely be used for weeknight dinners or those special occasions meals. And the best part…it’s dishwasher safe! No need to hand wash these dishes.
  • Big Horn Outdoors Wood Pellet Pizza Oven: Does the couple love to entertain? Are they good cooks and always on the lookout for the newest gadget or gizmo for the kitchen? Then a wood pellet pizza oven is sure to bring a smile to their faces. This one from Big Horn Outdoors has great reviews and is easy to use. Just make sure they invite you over when they decide to fire it up!
  • Gevi Espresso Machine with Milk Frother: If they love coffee – morning, noon, and night – then consider this Gevi Espresso Machine. They’ll be whipping up cappuccinos, lattes, and macchiatos in no time! And they’re going to love the milk frothing wand to give their coffee creations that Italian cafe flair.
  • Brookstone White Noise Sound Machine: Lots of people love a little white noise when it comes time to get some sleep. This white noise sound machine from Brookstone is a step above the normal machines as it has sliders so you can layer your favorite sounds to create a custom blend that matches your sleeping style. It also has numerous night light options and a timer that can be programmed for 30, 60, or 90 minutes.
  • Picnic at Ascot – Deluxe Equipped 2-Person Picnic Backpack: Move over picnic basket and make way for the picnic backpack! This is ideal for the couple who likes to spend time hiking or heading to outdoor concerts or the beach. It’s easy to carry, has a cooler compartment, vacuum flask and stainless steel mugs, a corkscrew, and a spot to bring a bottle of wine. And let’s not forget the plates and silverware and a few other things that will make any picnic better.
  • Margaritaville Bahamas Frozen Concoction Maker: Are margaritas and chips and salsa among their favorite things in the world? Then give them a frozen drink maker – so they can make some tasty frozen drinks at home! They’ll love making restaurant-style margaritas or daiquiris – and if you’re lucky, they’ll invite you over for cocktails. 
  • Natural Sliced White Agate Coasters (Set of 4): These gorgeous coasters will match any decor – which makes them a fabulous wedding gift. They’re hand-cut and completely unique – and perfect for protecting tables from “sweating” drinks.

If you’ll be attending a wedding (or two) this year, consider one of these gifts! They’re all fantastic, and the happy couple will be sure to think of you each time they use them.

Save Money on Groceries: Tips and Tricks to Reduce Your Bill

It’s no secret that groceries are expensive. However, there are ways to reduce your bill without making huge sacrifices. Take a look at some tips and tricks for saving money while grocery shopping – whether you’re looking to cut your bill by $10 or $100.

  • Shop What’s On Sale: First, try to create a grocery list based on what’s on sale. This can help you save money on items that you would normally purchase at full price. Additionally, be sure to compare prices between different stores before making your final purchase. Often, you can find better deals at warehouse clubs or discount stores than you can at traditional supermarkets.
  • Be Careful Buying In Bulk: When buying in bulk, it’s important to make sure that you will actually use all of the items that you purchase, or else they will just go to waste. And be sure to search for the best deals – which are usually on meats and produce. You can always ask a friend or family member if they’d like to share some of your bulk purchases,
  • Use Coupons Wisely: Another way to save money while grocery shopping is to use coupons. While it’s tempting to stock up on items just because they’re discounted, this can actually lead to waste and increased expenses in the long run. Instead, try only using coupons for products that you already plan to buy. And if possible, combine them with store discounts for even greater savings!
  • Don’t Shop When You’re Hungry: One of the easiest ways to save money on groceries is simply to avoid shopping when you’re hungry. When you’re famished, it’s easy to overspend on unhealthy foods that will only leave you feeling guilty later on. So try to make a trip to the grocery store part of your regular routine, and bring along a healthy snack or two so that you won’t be tempted to buy junk food.
  • Shop Your Pantry First: Before you head to the store, take a quick inventory of your pantry and refrigerator. See if there are any meals that you can prepare using what you already have on hand. This not only saves you money, but it also cuts down on food waste.
  • Avoid Pre-Packaged and Processed Foods: Processed foods are often more expensive than their fresh counterparts, and they often contain unhealthy additives and preservatives. So if you’re looking to save money on groceries, try to avoid buying these types of items. Instead, focus on purchasing whole foods that you can prepare yourself.
  • Implement Meatless Monday: Meat is one of the most expensive items on grocery store shelves, so consider going meatless at least once a week. There are plenty of delicious and healthy vegetarian recipes out there, so you won’t have to sacrifice flavor or variety.
  • Shop By Yourself: When you shop with other people, it can be hard to resist buying items that you don’t need. So try to grocery shop by yourself whenever possible. This will help you stay focused and avoid impulse buys.
  • Consider Using a Shopping Service: If you’re feeling overwhelmed by all of the tips and tricks mentioned above, or if you just don’t have enough time to grocery shop, consider using a shopping service. This can be a great option for busy families or individuals who want to save money on their food bills as the person shopping for you only buys what’s on your list.
  • Be Mindful of Your Choices: Finally, be mindful of your food choices. It’s easy to overspend on high-priced items like meat and seafood, but there are plenty of cheaper substitutes available. Try replacing pricier proteins with beans, lentils, or tofu; and opt for store-brand products instead of more expensive name brands. 

With a bit of creativity and some strategic planning, you can easily reduce your grocery bill without making big sacrifices. Yes, it may take a little planning and effort, but when you start seeing how much you can save, it will be worth it!

Cookie Recipes Galore!

Who doesn’t love a homemade cookie? There are so many different flavors and variations out there that you could probably make a new cookie every day for the rest of your life and never repeat a recipe! (And you’d probably have some very happy friends and family if you did this due to the cookie overflow!)

Of course, when it comes to cookies, it’s good to have a mix of classic recipes and some new ones, too! Here are a whole bunch of cookie recipes to get you inspired – and maybe into the kitchen to make a batch!

  • The Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookie by Alton Brown: You probably know Alton Brown from his many years on the Food Network. He’s known for taking a recipe and figuring out how to make it the best-tasting thing ever – and he’s mastered the chocolate chip cookie with this recipe. This recipe uses bread flour – which gives it the perfect balance of crispiness and chewiness. And while Alton suggests using semisweet chocolate chips, if you prefer milk chocolate chips or a combination of the two – go for it!
  • Monster Cookies: Do you love cookies that have all sorts of stuff in them? Like chocolate chips, M&Ms, peanut butter, and oats? Then Monster Cookies are going to be your go-to! And their texture makes them ideal for enjoying with a glass of milk!
  • Fudgy Chocolate-Walnut Cookies: How about a cookie that doesn’t contain flour? Yes, it does exist! And the Fudgy Chocolate-Walnut Cookie is one such recipe! It’s packed with chocolate and walnuts – giving you the flavor of your favorite brownie! And if you don’t like walnuts – consider subbing in pecans or almonds.
  • 4-Ingredient Pecan Sandies: Want a cookie that pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee or tea? This is it! And it only has four ingredients – butter, brown sugar, pecans, and flour. They’re super easy to make, and you can bake a few cookies at a time to enjoy with your favorite beverage whenever you want.
  • Raspberry Thumbprint Cookies: Yes, these cookies definitely have a lot of butter – and that makes them super rich with just the right amount of crispness. And the raspberry jam is so yummy! (If raspberry is not your “jam” – then pick another! Orange marmalade or strawberry could work, too!)
  • Classic Biscotti Recipe – 4 Ways: Biscotti is Italian for twice-baked, and that’s precisely what you do with these cookies! And that’s what makes them extra delicious! They are extra crunchy, and this recipe provides you with four different variations of this cookie. You can make classic biscotti, almond biscotti, cranberry-orange biscotti, or chocolate biscotti. Which do you want to try?
  • Chewy Sugar Cookies: You may think of sugar cookies as the quintessential Christmas cookie, but why should they only get some attention during the month of December? They’re good all year round! This recipe has all of the typical sugar cookie ingredients – and you’ll love that little bit of chewiness! Plus, you don’t have to refrigerate this recipe – unlike most sugar cookie recipes.
  • Perfect Coconut Macaroons: Not everyone is a coconut lover, but if you are, you probably love coconut macaroons. (Not macarons – those are a different cookie!) Coconut macaroons have only five ingredients (plus a couple of optional ones) and can be ready in under one hour. 
  • Oatmeal Raisin Cookies: Oatmeal Raisin Cookies don’t often get the credit they deserve! But when you have a great recipe – they can be seriously delicious! This recipe has both raisins and chocolate chips – which might be why it has a five-star rating – but they are definitely tasty – and who can argue with that?

Who’s ready to do some baking? With all of these delicious recipes, you can be enjoying a batch – or two – of cookies in no time at all! Which recipe are you looking forward to trying first?

Start Saving for Retirement

How do you start saving for retirement? It’s a question that many people ask themselves as they get older and think about what will happen when it is time to stop working. The answer, surprisingly, isn’t always complicated. There are tons of simple steps you can take today to save more money and set yourself up for a better tomorrow. Here are some tips on how to start saving for retirement so that you can see your future self smile!

  • Create a budget: A great way to start saving for retirement is by creating a budget. When you know where every penny is going, it becomes easier to see where you could stand to cut back and save some money. It isn’t always easy, but it is a great first step and can help lead to more savings in the long run. You can make your budget the old-fashioned way with pen and paper or find a free online budgeting tool to use.
  • Use an online calculator: To calculate how much money you’ll need to accumulate over time, try using an online calculator. This will help give you an idea of how much to save each month, and it might even show that the dream retirement you’ve imagined is more than attainable.
  • Take advantage of your company’s 401K plan: When you start working for a new employer, make sure that you learn as much as possible about their retirement plans. Many employers offer matching contributions on top of what you put into your own account. If the company you work for has a 401K plan, learn how it works and put it to work for you.
  • Achieve financial stability: There are different stages throughout your life where your finances may not allow you to save for retirement. That’s okay! The important thing is to start saving for retirement as soon as you can and work towards building up a cushion that will help support you in your golden years. Even if it takes a little longer than you’d like, every bit counts and will make a big difference down the line.
  • Speak with a financial planner: Reach out to a financial planner to help you. A good financial planner will offer guidance without making you feel pressured. Plus, it is often free of charge and can help you lay the foundation for a great retirement plan – even if it needs to start a few years down the road.
  • Start small: If the thought of saving for retirement feels daunting, don’t worry! You don’t have to do everything at once. Start by contributing just a little bit each month and then gradually increase your contribution as you achieve more financial stability. This way, you’ll be less likely to feel overwhelmed and more likely to stick with it over time.
  • Save automatically: One of the best ways to get into a habit is by making it automatic. You can do this by setting up an automatic transfer from your checking account every month and having it sent straight to your savings account or retirement fund. This way, you won’t even have the chance to spend that money on something else.
  • Think outside of traditional accounts: When we think about saving for retirement, most people consider old-fashioned options like 401Ks or IRAs, which are great, but there are other options out there these days with different benefits attached. If you’ve maxed out those contributions through work, consider looking at some other investment opportunities, such as real estate investing.

When it comes to saving for retirement, it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Take the time to do some planning now so that you are well-prepared when the time comes to stop working.

Tips and Tricks for an Easy Move

Moving into an apartment can be a difficult task. With all the packing, sorting, and (sometimes) heavy lifting, it’s easy to feel stressed out or overwhelmed by the process. But never fear! There are plenty of ways you can make moving easier on yourself. Here are some tips and tricks that will help you get through this life event with ease!

  • Label everything: Not only will this help keep track of your belongings, but it will also make unpacking a breeze.  If you know that a certain box contains plates, for example, unpacking will be as simple as going down the list and checking off each item.
  • Don’t overpack: Overpacking means hauling extra stuff up the stairs at a time when it’s probably the least convenient (i.e., after work). Trust us – less really is more here. Only pack what you need right away – everything else can wait until later on down the road.
  • Get all of the supplies you need: Invest in some good-quality moving supplies like sturdy boxes, packing tape, and bubble wrap. In addition to packing tape, boxes, and markers, you’ll also want to make sure you have a dolly or moving cart on hand. This will make transporting your belongings much easier – especially if they’re heavy!
  • Pack strategically: Make a list of the items you’ll need most in the weeks leading up to your move, and pack those things last. Additionally, move items to the rooms where they will be located in your new place – so you won’t have to unbox them and move them again.
  • Take your time: Moving is already a very busy and hectic process – don’t add to that by trying to do everything in one day. Spread out the tasks over several weeks (or even months) so that you’re not feeling overwhelmed at any point. Pace yourself and take some deep breaths.
  • Schedule your move for a time when you’re not busy: If possible, try to schedule your move for a time when you won’t be too busy. This will allow you to focus all your energy on the move and minimize stress. For example, if you’re an accountant, moving during tax season is only going to add to your stress. Just wait until tax season is over.
  • Let someone else handle the heavy lifting: If you can afford it, a moving company may be the way to go – especially with the heavy items. Do your research and ask for recommendations for reliable companies. Make sure you check what their policies are on things that are damaged or broken during transport – so you’re not caught off guard if something happens.
  • Ask for help: If you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to ask for help from family or friends. They’ll be more than happy to assist you. (And remember, pizza and cold beverages go a long way in recruiting some helping hands!)
  • Be a good neighbor: If you want to make a great first impression, be sure your new neighbors know that they can contact you if anything comes up day or night. This way, if there is ever an issue with noise complaints or any other disturbances at the apartment building, you can deal with them before they become too much of a problem. Be friendly and courteous!

Moving is always a hassle, but with the right preparation, it can be a little bit easier. Use these tips – and the help of some friends and family – to get it done without any broken dishes or misplaced items.

How to Start a Book Club

Do you love to read? Looking for a way to meet new people or socialize with friends? Interested in reading books that others have enjoyed but don’t want the commitment of reading a whole series on your own? A book club is a perfect solution. And here are some tips for starting a book club yourself!

  • Choose a book: The first step may seem obvious, but it is one of the most important: choose a book! It should be something that everyone in your book club enjoys reading. A great place to start doing research on books would be Amazon’s bestseller lists. They have a variety of lists, from “Bestsellers in Romance” to “Books for Teens.”
  • Invite people to join: Contact your friends and family members. There is no better way to get people excited about something than by telling them about it! Ask them if they’d be interested in joining you. 
  • Pick a time to meet: Now that you’ve chosen a book and recruited some friends or family members who are willing to read along with you, it’s time to choose when your meetings will take place. The best times would probably be either at lunchtime or after dinner during the week, but there might also be other options available such as a weekend afternoon or weekday morning sessions depending upon everyone’s schedule.
  • Pick a place to meet: Now decide where you will meet. You can choose to host the club at someone’s home or even a public place such as a coffee shop. You might even have your book club meeting at a restaurant so you can enjoy dinner and a drink at the same time.
  • Set some rules: The next step is essential: set rules that everyone agrees to. These could include things like how often meetings take place (weekly? biweekly?), what time they should happen, who will provide snacks, etc. They don’t need to be overly complicated – just communicated so that everyone is on the same page.
  • Gauge how the discussion went: After your first meeting, take a look at how the discussion went. Did you get to discuss all of the book? Only the first few chapters? Did you get through it all and had time left over? This will help you decide on how to plan for future book club gatherings.
  • Invite others: Ready to expand your book club? There are always people who can’t make it due to other commitments. If you’d like to grow your group, let others know about your club meetings by posting flyers around town or sending out emails/social media messages to let people know. It might be hard to get the word out at first, but once you have a few meetings under your belt with some positive experiences shared by all members, then it will become much easier! Additionally, you might let your local library know – in case they have patrons who are interested.
  • Pick your next book: Once you’ve finished with your first book, it’s time to pick another and start reading! You can ask for input from your book club members, draw from a hat, or take turns letting members make a pick. 

Why not start your own book club this year? Book clubs are a great way to connect with people who share a common interest in reading. It’s also a great way to explore new genres, engage in discussions with others, and just make reading much more fun!

Sweet Treats for Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, and you know what that means – time to dust off your apron! Whether you’re cooking for two or for an army of hungry kids, these sweet Valentine’s Day recipes are sure to please. From cheesecake to brownies to cookies, there’s something for everyone!

  • Strawberry Valentine Chex Mix: This sweet treat is going to be really popular – especially if you have little ones or you’re planning a movie night for the holiday. You only need five ingredients – and it’s a great recipe to make with kids!
  • French Silk Pie: Will you be spending Valentine’s Day with a chocolate lover? Then you must make this French Silk Pie. The crust is made from Nilla Wafers, and the filling is so rich and creamy that you’ll only need a sliver to satisfy your sweet tooth.
  • White Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake Bars: If you love cheesecake but want a simpler version to make this Valentine’s Day – then this recipe is for you. Plus, they’re so pretty with that swirl of raspberry puree!
  • Soft and Chewy Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting: The color of these brownies is perfect for the holiday, but the taste is even better. It makes a 9″ x13″ pan – which is fantastic if you’re having some friends or family over to celebrate.
  • Raspberry Cream Cheese Hearts Tarts: These are just the cutest little treats for Valentine’s Day! Think of them as a tastier version of Pop-Tarts! And, while this version uses raspberries, you could substitute in other fruits that you love.
  • Chocolate Chip Cookie Lava Cake: You’ve probably tasted the traditional chocolate lava cake, but this is an alternative that you’re going to love. With all the flavors of a traditional chocolate chip cookie and the decadent molten center of a lava cake, you might want to make a couple of extras because everyone is going to love this dessert.
  • Easy Shortbread Heart-Shaped Cookies: Shortbread cookies are the perfect accompaniment to a cup of coffee or tea, and these heart-shaped ones will be fabulous for Valentine’s Day. And they make for a wonderful gift if you want to wrap some up for your family or friends.
  • Valentine’s Day Truffles: Here’s another dessert that capitalizes on red velvet for the holiday by using a boxed red velvet cake mix. And, while these make gorgeous truffles, you could easily add a lollipop stick and make cake pops using this same recipe.
  • Red Velvet Nutella Stuffed Cookies: Who doesn’t like Nutella? That chocolatey-hazelnut spread is perfect on a sandwich, by the spoonful, or in these tasty cookies! The red coloring of the cookies is fantastic – but the “melty” center is where it’s at!
  • Cherry Crumb Pie: A classic cherry pie is always a hit! And this one is great because you only need to make one crust (and you could always use store-bought if you wanted). The crumb topping adds the right amount of sweetness, and this pie is fantastic served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
  • Chocolate Chiffon Valentine Cake: If cake is more of your jam, then take a gander at this recipe! It’s a decadent chocolate chiffon cake decorated with buttercream frosting and fresh strawberries! This one looks beautiful and is so full of flavor that you’ll struggle to stop at one slice.

This Valentine’s Day, why not make a homemade sweet treat for your loved ones? Whether they like cookies or brownies or cakes or pies – there’s something they’ll love on this list!

Fun Winter Activities

Winter is upon us, and that means snow will soon be on the ground (if it’s not already), and it’s cold outside. But this winter, don’t let the cold and snow keep you from having fun! There are plenty of activities to enjoy in the wintertime – if you’re just willing to bundle up and head outdoors for a while. And if you’re stuck trying to find ideas, here are some winter activities to consider trying out.

  • Ice Skating: Ice skating is a classic winter activity that you can do at any age. Whether you’re looking to go ice skating with your kids, friends, or spouse/partner, there are plenty of options around the area. Many rinks offer family nights on their open skate days – so it’s easy to take advantage of this fun wintertime activity!
  • Sledding and Snowshoeing: If ice skating isn’t for you, another awesome option is sledding and snowshoeing. Both activities allow you to get out into nature while still enjoying some good old-fashioned fun in the snow. 
  • Cross-Country Skiing: Another great winter activity is cross-country skiing. This is a more involved sport that requires some skill to get the most out of, but if you take a few lessons, then it’s easy to learn and enjoy. (Check with your local rec center to see if lessons are available.) And if you’ve never tried it before, look to borrow or rent skis to ensure that you like it.
  • Downhill Skiing: If you’re looking for a more intense winter sport, then downhill skiing might be the one for you! This full-body workout will have your heart pumping in no time. This is another activity where lessons can be helpful, and most ski resorts rent equipment for beginners who are just starting out.
  • Snowboarding: Similar to downhill skiing – but even more extreme – is snowboarding. It’s another fun activity that gets your blood flowing and lets you enjoy being outside. Definitely take a few lessons if you’re a novice or have never skied before!
  • Build a Snowman: A classic winter activity that kids and adults alike will enjoy is building a snowman. This fun pastime can be done with some friends, family members, or even by yourself – if you’re so inclined. You don’t need anything fancy for this activity either; all you really need is snow and a few accessories to create your own work of art. (Of course, some hot cocoa for when you’re finished is always a good idea!)
  • Ice Fishing: Did you know that you can go fishing in the winter? You can! Ice fishing is a great winter activity. It does require a bit of patience and skill to get the most out of it, but it’s definitely worth trying if you’ve never done so before. (And some ice fishermen have shanties that can shelter you from the elements – if winter is still not your favorite season.)
  • Go Hiking: How about some winter hiking? This kind of exercise will get your muscles working, and it’s an excellent way to enjoy nature. You will need the proper gear for this – waterproof hiking boots and plenty of winter clothing to keep you warm, but it’s a great time of the year to enjoy the beauty of the woods.
  • Play Soccer In The Snow: If the kids are clambering to play outside, then bundle them up and grab a soccer ball. A game of snow soccer will have everyone breaking a sweat and enjoying the fresh air.

Don’t let the cold and snow keep you indoors when you could try a few of these winter activities. These activities can help pass the time as you wait for warmer temperatures and spring flowers!

Sports Podcasts for Sports Lovers

Do you eat, sleep, and dream about sports – even though you’re not a professional athlete? Do you plan your calendar around major sporting events and spend your time checking ESPN stats to see how your favorite players are doing? Would you rather be home watching your team win than doing just about anything else? Then you’re definitely a sports lover – and if you love sports, then you need to check out some of these podcasts, too.

  • Pardon My Take: On “Pardon My Take,” Big Cat & PFT Commenter deliver the loudest and most correct sports takes in the history of the spoken word. Daily topics, guests, and an inability to tell what the hosts might be doing will make this your new favorite sports talk show. This is a podcast that will, without a doubt, change your life for the better- guaranteed or your money back. *Pretend a reggaeton air horn is going off right now* PMT.
  • The Bill Simmons Podcast: HBO and The Ringer’s Bill Simmons hosts the most downloaded sports podcast of all time, with a rotating crew of celebrities, athletes, and media staples, as well as mainstays like Cousin Sal, Joe House, and a slew of other friends and family members who always happen to be suspiciously available.
  • 30 For 30 Podcasts: Original audio documentaries from the makers of the acclaimed 30 for 30 film series, featuring stories from the world of sports and beyond. 30 for 30 offers captivating storytelling for sports fans and general interest listeners alike, going beyond the field to explore how sports, competition, athleticism, and adventure affect our lives and our world. Sports stories like you’ve never heard before.
  • The Pat McAfee Show 2.0: On The Pat McAfee Show 2.0, Pat McAfee and his friends deliver one-of-a-kind opinions that won’t be heard anywhere else. Pat, who played in two Pro Bowls during his eight-year NFL career, brings a fresh take on sports and entertainment to listeners and fans. He is known for speaking his mind and is both relatable and refreshing. His player’s insight, electric storytelling, and robust sense of humor have helped him build a huge and loyal fan base with more than 3 million social media followers. Presented by FanDuel, The Pat McAfee Show 2.0 promises to inform, intrigue, and entertain.
  • The Mina Kimes Show Featuring Lenny: Mina talks all things football with her unique brand of humor and insight. Her friends join each episode to talk about the NFL’s latest storylines, along with her football loving dog, Lenny, making frequent contributions.
  • The Right Time with Bomani Jones: Bomani Jones weighs in on sports, pop culture, social topics, and more, with your comments on Mondays, friends of the show on Wednesdays, and Dominique Foxworth on Fridays.
  • Skip and Shannon: Undisputed: Skip Bayless, Shannon Sharpe, and Jenny Taft discuss the biggest stories in the world of sports. It’s unscripted and unfiltered.
  • Sports? With Katie Nolan: Sports? with Katie Nolan is a weekly show about sports and all the things tangentially related to sports. Its friends would describe it as “curious,” “fun,” and “a podcast.” Weekly guests will include sports fans from all sorts of industries: comedy, film, television, science?
  • Men in Blazers: We discuss football. And wear blazers. Usually at the same time. Men in Blazers is driven by the belief that Soccer is America’s Sport of the Future. As it has been since 1972.

These are just a few of the sports podcasts you can listen to – when you’re not watching sports, of course! Download them and take a listen!

*All podcast descriptions courtesy of Apple Podcasts.