Category Archives: Fun

May30

Fun Aunt & Uncle

Posted on May 30, 2023 by lifewithlilred

Hello!! Johnny and I pride ourselves on being the Fun Aunt & Uncle to our two sweet nieces, Valerie and Raya. They are the absolute best and we cherish every minute with them! With all of the craziness going on in my life, it had been hard to see our nieces as often as we would like and that was my first order of business to change once things (Thankfully!) slowed down. This past Wednesday, we hosted our darling Val for a slumber party and it was a blast. Val claimed that Wednesday would be “the best day ever” and she was so right, as always!

Val arrived fairly late into the evening on Wednesday and came prepared with all of her slumber party supplies; A sleeping bag, stuffed animals, jammies and slippers, and books to read before bed. It was like she consulted the “what to bring to a sleepover” manual and it was adorable. To kick start the party, we had her favorite meal of spaghetti and Parmesan cheese and both of our favorite dessert – ice cream sundaes! Extra sprinkles for Val, of course! While we ate, we had a viewing of Ugly Dolls, which I had never seen before and I LOVED it. It was such a fun, sweet movie with an awesome message and an all star cast. Huge shout out to Val for her selection!

Once dinner and a show was complete, it was time to play, play, play. We hung out with Melvin and Penelope, and I didn’t think anyone could be as obsessed with them as I am, but I met my match with Val! She enjoyed petting and brushing both Mel and Pen and our shy Penelope graced us by letting me pick her up so Val could hold her. They both did great! After bunny time was done, we kept the theme going by playing a rabbit themed board game: Uncle Wiggly. This was Johnny’s favorite game in his youth so it was really special to play it all together and introduce a new generation to it.

Since Val arrived late, it was time to wrap up the evening and start heading to bed after our bunny jamboree. Val and I snuggled up and watched Home while surrounded by all of our plushies. We were both fast asleep as soon as it was over! Before Val was picked up in the morning, she assisted me in caring for the bunnies and making chocolate chip pancakes. Unfortunately, she decided after one bite that she didn’t like them lol so we just had spaghetti for breakfast! She is so much like me because that is honestly my favorite thing to have in the morning too. 😀

After Val left from our slumber party, I was missing her like crazy! She is mine and Johnny’s number one best girl and we are all looking forward to many more “best days ever” with her! ❤

Did you have a favorite aunt and uncle when you were little? Do you prefer regular food or actual breakfast food in the morning? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

May19

Britney Spears Monopoly

Posted on May 19, 2023 by lifewithlilred

Standard

Hello!! Mother’s Day was this past Sunday and another fabulous mom that was celebrated was my sister, Kristen. She is the mom to my two darling nieces, Valerie and Raya, and is absolutely amazing! Having a sister is having a built in best friend and Kristen will always be my A1 bestie. Normally for Mother’s Day, I get Kristen a Starbucks gift card to keep her caffeinated during her crazy busy days, but this year was different. While visiting my loved one at the Cleveland Clinic with Johnny, I saw Britney Spears Monopoly displayed in the gift shop and I couldn’t pass it up! Kristen is The Queen of Pop’s number one fan and I knew that the Monopoly board would make a wonderful addition to her merch collection. Check it out:

Once Johnny and I returned home from Cleveland, we decided that it wouldn’t hurt to give Britney Spears Monopoly a test run. We have Legend of Zelda Monopoly, but we wanted to play with the shiny new toy lol. Of course, every Monopoly board is the same thing, but I think the Britney Spears one might be my all time favorite version. I, too, am a huge Britney fan and have many a fond memory of sing alongs to the queen with my sis. A board entirely dedicated to all of our favorite songs was just perfect and it was a blast to play – especially while Johnny was DJ and playing all 90s hits!

Because of our current schedules, it can be hard for Kristen and I to commit to plans. However, it was my lucky day this past week because we both happened to be at our parents’ house at the same time. I didn’t have her gift on me, but my apartment is not even five minutes away so we went there together for the grand reveal. Kristen literally gasped when I presented her with her Mother’s Day gift and it was exactly the reaction I was hoping for. And, as one Britney fan to another, she completely understood why Johnny and I had to play it first haha. 🙂

If Britney reigns supreme in your world, then you absolutely have to invest in this Monopoly board! It is such an awesome collector’s item and you will clutch your pearls when you see it too. In fact, Johnny and I had so much fun playing it that we are thinking of buying a copy for ourselves! 😀

Who is your favorite pop singer? What is your favorite board game? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Apr29

Summertime Activity Goals

Posted on April 29, 2023 by lifewithlilred

Standard

Hello! The weather in the good ol’ AK-Rowdy has been friggen abysmal and my life is in shambles lol and, for once, I find myself wishing for an extra dose of Vitamin D. Shocking, I know, since we all know that Johnny and I all but melt in the sun! Although the days are gloomy, it helps perk me up to think of activities that I would love to do this summer. I might not get to do everything I have in mind, but I know I can easily do at least a few of the following:

Hit the pool:

One of the best things about living in Timber Top, despite numerous fiascos this past year, is the outdoor pool! We actually have a really nice pool with a deep area, a children’s area, waterfall, and upper deck mini pool that I genuinely don’t understand why it’s not a hot tub! I always say that once the pool opens, I will go spend an hour or two swimming or lounging after work and I’m usually too tired by the time I get home to commit. This is not going to slide this summer, however, because this is one of the easiest things on my list; the pool is only a two minute drive away!

Botanical gardens:

I would absolutely love to go to the botanical gardens in Cleveland or Mansfield with Johnny as a date day. I have never been to the one in Cleveland, but I adored a family trip to the Kingwood Center Gardens in Mansfield with my family a few years ago. It was so much fun to explore the grounds and bask in the glory of the flowers and landscaping. And, we all know that botanical gardens make a perfect backdrop for OOTDs! This summer, I think the one in Cleveland will be the move and maybe Johnny and I could have dinner at Pepper’s, my favorite restaurant afterwards. 🙂

Play, play, play:

My sweet niece, Val Gal, is a constantly on the move four year old and she keeps me young! I cannot wait for warm days spent in my parents’ beautiful backyard running around with Val, blowing bubbles, drawing with chalk, and searching for bunnies. Speaking of bunnies, I very much would like to get a playpen with a cover on top so Melvin and Penelope can experience being on the grass. I know Val would get a huge kick out of that and it would be a great learning experience for her. This past week, she proudly showed me a book about caring for bunnies that she got from the library because she desperately wants one of her own. My angel! ❤

Outdoor events:

There are always so many awesome events happening in my general vicinity that I always say that I want to go to, check “interested in” on Facebook, and never attend. This summer, I would like to go to at least one or two, whether it be a farmer’s market, food truck festival, or outdoor concerts and classes. Johnny and I have already been talking about going to a few baseball games for Akron’s minor league team, the RubberDucks (dumb name, I know!), and I can practically taste the Dippin’ Dots as I type this! 😀

Watercolor painting:

It has been a while since I painted watercolor due to lack of time and I miss it terribly! Like going to the pool, this is also a no excuse activity that I know I can accomplish. I would like to set up my supplies in my parents’ backyard and paint the many gorgeous flowers my dad tends to. I can picture sitting on the deck right now, painting, and sipping iced tea with my mom and it would, truly, be the best afternoon ever. ❤

Weekend trip:

A weekend trip might be a bit difficult due to the current craziness in my life, but it needs to be added to this list anyway because it’s something Johnny and I want to do so badly! I would really like to get a cabin in Hocking Hills for a long weekend to hike, relax, and soak in a hot tub. It would be so nice to have a little getaway together, as we haven’t even been on our honeymoon! Although Hocking Hills isn’t Europe, it’s still as good a place as any to start our travels together.

I have grand plans for this summer, and I hope to accomplish at least a few of the activities on this list. It will take a bit of motivation on my part to shake off my general exhaustion, but I know that having fun is sometimes the best medicine of all!

What are your summertime activity goals? What is your favorite warm weather activity? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Mar13

Fun Aunt & Uncle

Posted on March 13, 2023 by lifewithlilred

Standard

Hello!!! Johnny and I are firm on not wanting children and are very happy to be bunny parents. Another title that we take very seriously is the “fun aunt and uncle” to our two sweet nieces, Val Gal and Raya, and our nephew, Patrick. There is nothing better than raising a ruckus with our favorite little humans and then sending them back to their parents afterwards! This past Tuesday was an incredibly special day because Miss Val turned four years old! To celebrate, Johnny and I hosted a birthday slumber party on Thursday with all of her favorite things: Spaghetti and pesto for dinner, a vanilla cupcake and sprinkles for dessert, and lots of presents!

Val is so dear to Johnny and I because she was only half a year old when he and I started dating and she has grown up with us as a couple. We couldn’t wait to have her over for a party just for her and I thought that we had to be more excited than she was. However, we were proved wrong when Val decided she wanted to skip her dance class (Her fave!) to start the festivities early. And, believe me when I say, Val came to our apartment ready to rage lol.

Within minutes presents were ripped open and Johnny was on the floor being attacked by the Tickle Monster. I began the chant of “fun aunt and uncle” and it spread like wildfire between the three of us. Very shortly after, Val assured her mom that she could go home and our party continued with checking out some of her haul. Rather than the toys, Val was enamored with the music box I got her and was convinced it was magic when she shut the box, opened it, and the ballerina continued to spin. It was a hoot. 😀

With promises of birthday cupcakes after dinner, we settled in to eat and watch an episode of Sonic The Hedgehog as per her latest obsession. Johnny and I thought it was hysterical and we were snuggled up on the couch together in stitches. After a rousing round of “happy birthday” and cupcakes, Johnny assembled her new mobile pet grooming station and we played Pet Shop and Johnny’s favorite childhood board game of Uncle Wiggly. Val also got a surprise visit from my bunny baby, Melvin, who so graciously let her and I give him a cuddle before bed. 🙂

Once Johnny went to sleep, Val and I began winding the party down with a bit of TV and silliness. She wasn’t awfully fond of TT’s favorite game called “let’s go to sleep” but she did love jumping on the bed every time I turned my back. Hey, you only turn four once! Johnny and I had the best time celebrating our best girl’s big day and we are so lucky to be the Fun Aunt and Uncle to the coolest kids on the planet! ❤

Did you have a favorite aunt and uncle growing up? How did you celebrate childhood birthdays? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Feb1

Planning The Perfect Date Night

Posted on February 1, 2023 by lifewithlilred

Standard

No matter how long you’ve been together, date night is always important. It’s a time to reconnect and remind yourselves why you fell in love in the first place. Whether you are planning a Friday night on the town or are thinking ahead to Valentine’s Day, here are a few tips to achieve ultimate date night success:

Decide on a Date:

Choosing the right date for a romantic night out is an important step in planning the perfect evening. It’s essential to pick a day and time that works best for both partners. Consider your work schedules and personal commitments when deciding on a date, as well as any special occasions or anniversaries that you might want to celebrate on this night.

It’s also important to think about the season when choosing a date. Spring and summer are ideal times for outdoor activities like picnics or walks in the park, while winter weather makes cozy dinners at home or at restaurants with outdoor heaters more appealing. Plus, certain holidays may offer unique opportunities for fun activities like sledding in December or celebrating St. Patrick’s Day with Irish cuisine and drinks.

Another factor to keep in mind when deciding on a date is budgeting. Going out for expensive meals every week might not be feasible for everyone, so look into different cost-effective options too. You could order takeout and have it delivered right to your doorstep, visit free museums or parks, or even host a game night at home with your own board game collection!

Pick a Place:

Once you’ve decided on the date and time for your night out, it’s time to think about where you’d like to go. If you’re going out to eat, pick a restaurant such as the Cathedral Bistro that both partners can enjoy – it might be helpful to look into local restaurants with reviews or recommendations from friends. For activities away from home, consider what you two would be interested in doing together – from bowling alleys and movie theaters, to museums and art galleries, there are plenty of unique options available.

If you decide on staying home instead, there are lots of ways to create a romantic atmosphere at home. Make an effort to decorate the living space with candles or fresh flowers, put on some relaxing music as a backdrop, cook a special meal together, or watch a classic romantic movie and eat lots of chocolate. 😀

Have Fun:

No matter what you decide to do on your date night, the most important thing is to have fun and enjoy each other’s company. Share stories and jokes, talk about old memories, plan for future events…the possibilities are endless! Date night is all about making time for one another and showing that you care; and that doesn’t require spending lots of money or going out to fancy restaurants. The best part of planning the perfect date night is that it can be whatever you want to make it perfect for you. Get creative and have some fun with it!

The key to having a successful date night is to make a plan and have a blast for a #relationshipgoals worthy time!

Featured Image By: Pexels

Jan24

Friday Date Night

Posted on January 24, 2023 by lifewithlilred

Standard

Hello! A weekend in mine and Johnny’s world follows a fairly regular format of a date night one day and then Johnny will hang out with friends and I get the apartment to myself on the other. It’s great! These past few weeks have been exhausting for me because I started a new online job on top of my regular schedule. While we did have plans for a friend to come over on Friday, I had absolutely no follow through and we ended up having an awesome date night in, instead. Check it out:

Literally all of last week, I developed an intense craving for Mary Coyle’s, which is a mom and pop Italian restaurant and ice cream parlor in Highland Square. I have absolutely no idea where this came from because I haven’t had Mary Coyle’s since I was a teenager. All I knew is that I had to have it lol! Being the angel that Johnny is, he DoorDashed it for dinner on Friday and I couldn’t wait to dig in while we watched our free trial of Peacock. Unfortunately, It was nowhere near as good as I remembered it being. 😦

At Mary Coyle’s I went with my teenage order of Fettuccine Alfredo and a blueberry sundae and, if we’re all being honest with each other – it sucked! The Alfredo was dry and the serving size was so small. Not that I want a heaping dish when I order out but this was legit a half handful of noodles at best and I was still hungry after the meal. I figured that I would fill up the empty spots with ice cream but that didn’t go accordingly to plan, either. The sundae consisted primarily of marshmallow fluff rather than ice cream and it was so disappointing!

Although the meal left a lot to be desired and required supplemental Doritos, we still had a great evening in. After dinner, we spent several hours playing Mario Kart 8 online and it was a hoot. It’s fun to race against Johnny and the computers but it was even better to play against actual people around the world. The races online were actually challenging and every time we thought we were going to finish up, “just one more” would turn into two or three. And, of course, we can’t get enough of the new racetracks that have been added too. 😀

A DoorDash and video game date night was just what I needed after yet another busy week. Whether we are out on the town or in for the evening, it is always the best time with my main squeeze! ❤

What is a perfect night in for you like? Are there any restaurants that didn’t live up to your memories? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Jan3

Fun & Games: Elf Journey From The North Pole Edition

Posted on January 3, 2023 by lifewithlilred

Standard

Fun & Games: Elf Journey From The North Pole Edition

Hello!! The favorite Christmas movie of the Millers is National Lampoons Christmas Vacation. The Mushenheims, on the other hand, love Elf! There is nothing like a family viewing of that movie to get into the holiday spirit and we quote it year round. For Christmas, my sister gifted the entire family with an Elf board game that was insanely cute and will be great to play during any time of the year when you need a touch of holiday magic. Check it out:

Just like in the movie Elf, the point of this game is to get Buddy to New York City from the North Pole to find his dad. In the game, you are tasked with a goal sheet of locations that you must visit to score points before you make it to the Big Apple. To get Buddy moving, you use small direction markers to create your own path to places like Central Park, Gumdrop Village, and a coffee shop offering the World’s Best Cup Of Coffee (lol). The catch is that each player will build off of your path so there is no telling where Buddy will end up!

I played two rounds of the Journey From The North Pole game with my mom and brother and it was a hoot. Yes, it is basically like a slightly more complicated version of Candy Land but it was fun to move about the board while visiting the Wise Snowman, Animal Friends, and Narwhal Pal (Bye, Buddy! I hope you find your dad!). It won’t provide endless hours of entertainment for adult players but it would be a blast to play with the little ones and it is such an easy game to catch onto. 🙂

This board game is perfect for your favorite Elf loving family and is such a nice collectable item. Also, can we talk about how cute the Buddy marker is?! What an awesome family gift from my big sis! ❤

What is your favorite board game? Does your favorite movie have a game counterpart? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Nov22

Planning The Ultimate Girls Night In

Posted on November 22, 2022 by lifewithlilred

Standard

Hello! It has been snowing in Ohio for the past couple of days so, as far as I am concerned, winter is officially here. While it is always fun to have a night out, the cold weather makes me want to stay in until spring! Those winter nights gives the perfect opportunity to host the ultimate girls night in because why leave the comfort of your own home if you don’t have to?! Call up your besties and find your comfiest pajamas because it’s time to plan a GNI so good that it will make you scoff at a night on the town:

So Many Activities:

While nothing pleases me more than a good old fashioned girl talk, a night in begs for some fun activities to do together. This could be anything from pulling up a YouTube tutorial and having a wine and paint night to baking and decorating holiday cookies. How about making your own pizzas together instead of ordering delivery? Or putting together an ice cream sundae bar? Hey, a girl has gotta eat!

Spa Treatments:

A girls night in staple is, of course, getting to pamper yourselves. We’re talking face masks, painting nails, and aromatherapy – the works! Have your best girls bring their favorite products and turn it into a swap so that all of you can try something new. You could even create your own face masks and hair treatments with ingredients in your kitchen. Who knows, your girls night might turn into your first small business meeting with your skin care creations!

Snuggle Up:

What is a good girls night in without some chick flicks? Pop all of the popcorn and pop the champagne! Movie time means snuggling up, getting cozy, and unwinding so lots of soft blankets and fuzzy socks are a must. You could even order matching PJs if you want to be super extra! On the subject of blankets, fleece throws are super easy to make and can be added to your growing list of activities.

Cocktail Creations:

If you plan on indulging in the drink, how about creating a girls night signature cocktail (Or mocktail!)? Wine or champagne is always a good choice but it will be a blast to shake things up literally and metaphorically. Get inspiration for cocktails on Pinterest and put your own twist on it. You or your friends might just find your new calling as the best bartender ever. 😀

Playlist, Please:

Having awesome music on as you craft, eat, and talk the night away is so essential. Even more important is your selection, which means no mopey ballads! Girls night in means girl power anthems, one hit wonders, and beats that get you in the spirit for an impromptu dance party. And, what is a girls night in without Queen Bs, Britney Spears AND Beyonce? The answer is: NOTHING!!

If the winter weather has driven you to hibernation mode, you might as well have some fun. Your girls night in will be a GREAT SUCCESS and you could turn it into a tradition with a different host every month. Now, where’s my invite?!

What are some girls night in essentials? What is your favorite night in snack or drink? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Oct26

Hosting Halloween? Try These Ideas!

Posted on October 26, 2022 by lifewithlilred

Standard

Hello!! It is almost Halloween weekend and I am so excited for it!! On Friday, Johnny and I are going to have a scary movie night with one of our friends (my bestie and her husband had to reschedule) and then passing out candy to trick-or-treaters in my parents’ neighborhood on Saturday night. Whether you are hosting a huge bash or a small get together, these ideas will be sure to be a hit for major Halloween fun:

Food & Drinks:

Let’s all be honest here, one of the most important aspects of a holiday party is the food and drinks! You could do a potluck style situation and have everyone bring a drink or snack. Or, you could go the route that I planned on doing and preparing things yourself. Since my party of five will be a party of three on Friday, I will be keeping things fairly simple – tacos for dinner and apple cider cocktails while the movie night commences.

There are so many amazing recipes for cocktails (nonalcoholic too) and spooky snacks on Pinterest. You could try some of the following at your party:

Caramel apple bark
A trail mix station
Apple butter or pumpkin cheesecake
Cupcakes or cake pops
Crockpot dishes like soups or dips
Themed cocktails – Bloody Marys, anyone?

So Many Activities:

Movie nights are an easy way to go for a Halloween party. To keep things fair, have everyone write down what they would like to watch and draw from a hat to leave things up to chance. If you’re looking for more “active” activities, you could incorporate any of these ideas:

Costume Contest: What good is a Halloween party if everyone isn’t dressed up? You could create a makeshift runway, have your guests model their look, and vote on which costume is the best. A goodie bag of candy or a small Halloween decoration could be the prize for the winner.

Pumpkin Carving Or Painting: Decorations are always a must for a party and you could all make your own with a pumpkin carving or painting station. How cool would it be to have your whole front yard lit up with jack-o-lanterns that your guests created? This is also a great activity to do outside if the weather is nice and it’s still light out.

Dance The Night Away: If you have space to allow for some dancing, then go for it! Of course, you will need a fantastic spooky playlist. Johnny and I recommend our main jams of the Monster Mash, Alice Cooper, and Ghost.

Scavenger Hunt: A nighttime scavenger hunt would be so much fun! You can hide clues throughout your yard and home and have a prize for whomever completes the task first. Be sure to supply flashlights if this is going to be an after dark activity.

Set The Space:

Any host with the most knows not to leave preparing your party space for the last minute! You might have to move furniture around or have additional seating depending on how many people are attending. As long as you can accommodate your guests comfortably, then you are good to go. If you are going to be watching movies, make sure you have lots of extra blankets or pillows or have the party-goers bring their own.

Do Good:

A get together during this time of the year is perfect for doing some good as we are quickly approaching the holiday season. The “buy in” for your party could be a donation to a homeless shelter, animal rescue organization, or charity of your choosing. This is a simple but effective way of giving back!

With these tips, your Halloween party will be the talk of your friend group for years to come. Now, can Johnny and I get an invite or…?!

What are you doing for Halloween? What will you be dressing up as? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Oct12

Heritage Farms Date Day

Posted on October 12, 2022 by lifewithlilred

Standard

Hello!! This past Saturday, Johnny and I had a lovely date day/OOTD shoot at the Heritage Farms pumpkin patch. Because, let’s be real, are you really a fashion blogger if you don’t take pictures at a pumpkin patch during spooky season?! The answer is: NO! We even got surprised by a super sweet woman who insisted on taking our pictures after yelling “POWER COUPLE ALERT” lol. Check it out:

^^^ You can peep this OOTD tomorrow!!

Heritage Farms is a beautiful property that hosts all kinds of different events year round. There are farmers markets in the summer, pumpkin patches in the fall, and a Christmas tree farm come winter. The pumpkin patch was SO perfect and was decked out with something for everyone. There were food trucks, pumpkins of every shape and size, and a children’s area featuring games and hay rides. I can’t wait to take my nieces!! 😀

We couldn’t have asked for better weather for our date day and what started out really chilly turned into a sunny and warm fall afternoon. It felt wonderful to walk around and breathe in that fresh fall air and see all of the other families having such a great time. Nothing warms mine and Johnny’s hearts more than seeing other people basking in the glory of Halloween time. ❤

After selecting two baby pumpkins apiece, we started to get hungry and continued our date at a bar called The Basement. I had never been before even though it’s right down the street from our apartment and the food was, shockingly, insanely good. We returned home with very full bellies and I treated Johnny to some pampering by dyeing his hair. Then, it was time for Magic The Gathering and video games to wrap up a fantastic day.

Ever since Johnny and I began doing our combined date and OOTD shoot on Saturdays, I have been such a happy camper. It gives me something to look forward to every week and it is so much fun to explore all kinds of different places in the greater Akron area with my main squeeze. I can’t wait to figure out where we’ll go next week!

What does your ideal date consist of? What is your favorite fall activity? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

	lifewithlilred on Happy Birthday, Husband!!!!
	Simon on Happy Birthday, Husband!!!!
	Happy Birthday, Husb… on Best Bunny Dad Ever!
	Happy Birthday, Husb… on Fun Aunt & Uncle
	Danielle on Fun Aunt & Uncle