Whether it’s for the firefighters who keep us safe, the teachers shaping young minds, or the nurses who care for us, a simple card shows them their work doesn’t go unnoticed.

Below you’ll find a free printable, short thank you messages you can copy, and 10 easy ways to say thank you all year long.

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you when you make a purchase through my links. Thank you for supporting my kitchen!

Who Are Community Helpers?

Community helpers are the people who keep our neighborhoods safe, healthy, and running. They include:

1. Emergency services: firefighters, police officers, and paramedics
2. Healthcare workers: doctors, nurses, and EMTs
3. Educators: teachers, bus drivers, and school staff
4. Public services: sanitation workers, postal workers, and city workers
5. Social services: social workers and counselors
6. Food and agriculture: farmers, grocery store employees, and restaurant staff
7. Volunteers: people who give their time to local charities and organizations

Short Thank You Message for Community Helpers

Not sure what to write? Here are short thank you messages for community helpers that fit on a card or note. Copy them as-is or add a personal detail.

For any community helper

• “Thank you for all you do for our community. We appreciate you!”
• “Your hard work makes our town a better place. Thank you!”
• “Thank you for showing up for us every day.”
• “We see how much you do, and we’re so grateful.”

For firefighters and police officers

• “Thank you for keeping us safe. We’re grateful for your courage.”
• “Thank you for running toward the danger so we don’t have to.”

For nurses, doctors, and EMTs

• “Thank you for your care and compassion. It means more than you know.”
• “Thank you for being there when we needed you most.”

For teachers and school staff

• “Thank you for helping our kids learn and grow.”
• “Thank you for making school a place our child loves to be.”

For postal, sanitation, and city workers

• “Thank you for the work that keeps our neighborhood running.”
• “Thank you for showing up in every kind of weather.”

For volunteers

• “Thank you for giving your time. It makes a real difference.”

Longer Thank You Messages for Community Helpers

Want something a little more heartfelt? These work well for a card or a note from the whole family.

• Simple and heartfelt: “Thank you for all you do to keep our community safe, healthy, and thriving. Your hard work and dedication do not go unnoticed, and we truly appreciate you!”
• Personal touch: “To our amazing community helpers, thank you for your unwavering support and service. Whether you’re on the front lines or behind the scenes, your efforts make a difference in our lives every day!”
• For a specific person: “Dear [Name], thank you for your tireless efforts in our community. Your commitment to [specific service or task] is inspiring, and we are grateful for you!”
• Encouraging and uplifting: “Thank you to all our community helpers! Your kindness, bravery, and selflessness bring light and hope to our community.”
• For a group: “To all the community helpers in our area, thank you for your incredible service and support. We are grateful to have you!”

What to Write in a Thank You Card for Community Helpers

A great card doesn’t need to be long. Try this simple formula:

1. Start with a greeting. “Dear Firefighters of Station 3,” or “Dear Mrs. Garcia,”
2. Say thank you. Name what they do, like “Thank you for keeping our street safe.”
3. Add one specific detail. “You helped my neighbor last winter, and we’ll never forget it.”
4. Close warmly. “With gratitude,” followed by your name or your family’s name.

Tip for kids: Have them draw a picture of the helper at work and add one sentence in their own words. Those are the cards that get pinned to the station wall.

How Can We Make Community Helpers Feel Appreciated?

Here are 10 simple ways to show your thanks:

1. Send thank you cards. Handwritten cards go a long way. Try a card-making event, especially for kids.
2. Give public recognition. Highlight local helpers on social media or community boards.
3. Host an appreciation event. A small luncheon or appreciation day lets you say thanks in person.
4. Bring gifts and treats. Baked goods, flowers, or a coffee run brighten any shift. Organize a “treat day” for your local fire station, hospital, or school.
5. Offer volunteer support. Lend a hand at local shelters or community events.
6. Create community awards. Let neighbors nominate outstanding helpers.
7. Involve kids. Drawing pictures and writing letters teaches children gratitude.
8. Share positive feedback. Tell helpers (and their supervisors) how they made a difference.
9. Support local initiatives. Donate to fundraisers for equipment or training.
10. Advocate for their needs. Speak up for the resources and policies that help them do their jobs.

Free Printable Thank You Card for Community Helpers

Download the free printable, add your own message, and send one to a community helper in your neighborhood today.

The post Thank You Cards for Community Helpers appeared first on Momma Lew.

A trip to the pumpkin patch is fun, and so is a walk around the block to find the brightest leaves.

This fall bucket list has ideas for days out, afternoons at home, and everything in between.

Pick a few your family would enjoy, add them to the calendar, and check them off as you go.

Fall Bucket List Ideas

You don’t have to finish every item. Let everyone choose a favorite or two, then leave room for whatever comes up during the season.

Get outside

• Visit a pumpkin patch.
• Go apple picking.
• Walk through a corn maze.
• Take a hayride.
• Visit a fall festival.
• Take a walk to look at the changing leaves.
• Collect a few leaves for a craft.
• Have a picnic at a local park.
• Go on a scenic drive.
• Visit a farmers market.

Have fun at home

• Carve or decorate pumpkins.
• Watch a fall movie together.
• Make a leaf rubbing.
• Have a family game night.
• Read outside with a blanket.
• Put together a fall puzzle.
• Decorate the front porch.
• Make a fall playlist.
• Have a backyard bonfire and make s’mores.
• Take a family photo among the leaves.

Make something good to eat

• Bake something with apples.
• Make a pot of soup for dinner.
• Try a new pumpkin recipe.
• Drink apple cider together.
• Make a favorite fall dessert.

Looking for more ideas for the kitchen? Try my Fall Food Bucket List, with 50 foods, treats, and traditions to check off. 

How to Use Your Fall Bucket List Printable

Print the list and put it on the fridge where everyone can see it. Have each person circle a few things they’d like to do, then choose one for the next free afternoon or weekend. Keep the easy at-home ideas handy for rainy days.

How do I download a printable fall bucket list?

To download your free fall bucket list, follow these simple steps:

• Click on the Fall Bucket List download link.
• The printable will often be in a PDF format. After clicking the download link, save the file to your computer or device.
• Print using your home printer. Make sure to select the correct paper size and print settings for the best quality.
• After printing, hang it up somewhere visible and start enjoying the list of things you have planned.
• For personal use only.

The post Printable Fall To-Do List appeared first on Momma Lew.

Natural options usually produce softer shades than bottled food coloring. They can also change a recipe’s flavor or texture, so start with a small amount and test the color before adding more.

What Can I Use Instead of Red Food Coloring or Red 40?

• Beet powder is a good place to start for pink or reddish frosting. It adds color without adding much liquid.
• Beet juice can work when a little extra liquid won’t affect the recipe, but it may thin frosting if you use too much.
• For a berry-colored treat, try crushed or strained raspberries or strawberries. They’ll add fruit flavor along with the color.
• If you need a bright, consistent red for a decorated cake, a food coloring made from plant sources may be easier to work with than juice or purée.

There’s no exact one-for-one swap for Red 40. Your result will depend on the ingredient, how much you use, and whether the recipe is baked.

“Natural” doesn’t automatically mean an ingredient will work for every person or every recipe.

If you’re avoiding a particular ingredient because of a suspected reaction, check labels carefully and speak with your child’s healthcare professional about your concerns. The FDA notes that some children may be sensitive to certain color additives. 

Food Coloring Substitutes by Color

How to Use Natural Food Coloring in Frosting

• For buttercream frosting or cream cheese frosting, try a powder first if you have one. Add a small amount, mix thoroughly, and check the color before adding more. Powders are easier to work into frosting without making it runny.
• If you’re using juice or fruit purée, add it a little at a time. You may need to adjust the frosting to get the consistency you want. Keep in mind that fruit will change the flavor, too.

Will Natural Food Coloring Work in Cake Batter?

It can, but expect some trial and error. A color that looks strong in the mixing bowl may look different after baking. Juice and purée also add liquid to the batter, which can change the texture if you add a lot.

If the color is central to the cake’s appearance, test a small batch first. For a casual family bake, a softer shade may be all you need.

Tips Before You Start

• Pick the ingredient for the recipe. Powder is often easier in frosting; juice may be easier to mix into a drink.
• Add a little at a time. You can deepen the color, but you can’t easily take it back out.
• Expect some flavor. Cocoa, matcha, turmeric, and berries all bring their own taste.
• Test baked recipes first. Heat and other ingredients can change the finished shade.

If you’re exploring alternatives because of concerns about food dyes, you can also read what happened when our family started paying attention to them.

The post Food Coloring Substitutes: Natural Options for Every Color appeared first on Momma Lew.

The easiest place to start is the Starbucks Rewards program, but you can also watch for special promotions, earn gift cards through reputable rewards programs and enter verified giveaways. Some methods require an occasional purchase, while others only take a few minutes of your time.

Here are the best ways to enjoy your next Starbucks order for free—or at least spend less on it.

Updated September 2026*

Join Starbucks Rewards

The first step is to sign up for Starbucks Rewards. Membership is free, and you can register through the Starbucks app or website.

Members earn Stars on qualifying purchases and can exchange them for drink customizations, discounts, drinks, food and select merchandise.

Starbucks currently offers three membership levels: Green, Gold and Reserve. Everyone begins at the Green level and can move into a higher tier by earning more Stars during the year.

Download the Starbucks app so you can track your Stars, see available offers and apply rewards when placing an order.

Redeem Stars for Free Starbucks

Once you have earned enough Stars, you can exchange them for different rewards.

Current redemption options include:

• 25 Stars: A complimentary drink customization worth up to $1, such as an extra espresso shot, syrup or cold foam
• 60 Stars: $2 off a qualifying purchase
• 100 Stars: A brewed coffee or tea, bakery item or packaged snack worth up to $6
• 200 Stars: A handcrafted drink or hot breakfast item worth up to $10
• 300 Stars: An eligible lunch item or packaged coffee worth up to $16
• 400 Stars: Select Starbucks merchandise worth up to $20

Available items and reward limits can change, so check the Starbucks app before ordering.

If you are deciding how to use your Stars, compare the menu price with the reward limit. Saving 200 Stars for a more expensive handcrafted drink may give you a better value than redeeming them for a basic drink.

Get a Free Starbucks Birthday Reward

Starbucks Rewards members can receive a complimentary birthday drink or food item.

To qualify, you generally need to join Starbucks Rewards at least seven days before your birthday, add your birthday to your account and complete at least one Star-earning transaction before your birthday each year.

The amount of time you have to use the reward depends on your membership level:

• Green members can redeem it on their birthday.
• Gold members receive a seven-day redemption window.
• Reserve members receive a 30-day redemption window.

Look in the app before your birthday to confirm that the reward has been added to your account and to see its expiration date.

Check the App for Bonus-Star Offers

Starbucks regularly adds personalized offers and challenges to the app. You may be able to earn additional Stars by ordering certain menu items, visiting a set number of times or making purchases during a promotional period.

Before ordering, open the app and check the offers section. Some promotions must be activated before making a purchase.

Also watch for Double Star Days, when qualifying purchases earn Stars faster. Gold and Reserve members receive additional Double Star Days during the year, but Green members can receive them too.

Use Free Mod Mondays

Starbucks Rewards members may receive a Free Mod Monday offer once a month. This promotion covers one beverage customization, with a maximum discount of $2.

Depending on the offer, you may be able to add an espresso shot, syrup, sauce, cold foam or another eligible customization without paying the usual extra charge.

Starbucks announces participating dates through the app and email, so check your account before placing your Monday order.

Bring a Reusable Cup

Bringing a clean reusable cup can help you save money and may also help you earn rewards faster.

Starbucks offers a reusable-cup discount on eligible drinks. Starbucks Rewards members may also receive additional Stars or other benefits when using a personal cup, depending on the current promotion.

Personal cups can be used for eligible café, drive-thru and mobile orders at participating locations. Be sure the cup is clean and large enough for the drink you are ordering.

Take Advantage of Free Refills

When you stay in a participating Starbucks café, you may be eligible for free refills of hot or iced brewed coffee or tea during the same visit.

Refills are generally limited to qualifying brewed beverages and cannot be saved for another visit. Specialty drinks, cold brew and handcrafted beverages may not qualify.

Ask the barista about the refill policy before ordering, since participation and eligible beverages can vary by location.

How to Get a Free Starbucks Card

If you are specifically looking for a free Starbucks card, try legitimate reward programs that let members exchange earned points or cash back for gift cards.

Depending on current availability, Starbucks gift cards may be offered through:

• Cash-back and receipt-scanning apps
• Survey and market-research websites
• Credit card reward programs
• Workplace or employee reward programs
• School and community fundraisers
• Verified brand giveaways
• Loyalty programs that allow points to be exchanged for gift cards

Programs such as Ibotta, Fetch, Swagbucks or similar reward platforms may include Starbucks in their gift-card catalogs. Offers change frequently, so check the available rewards before spending time earning points.

You are not receiving a gift card for nothing with these programs—you are exchanging points earned from purchases, receipts, surveys or other activities. Never pay an upfront fee to “claim” a free Starbucks gift card.

Link Eligible Loyalty Accounts

Starbucks allows members to link certain partner loyalty accounts, including eligible Delta SkyMiles and Marriott Bonvoy accounts.

Linked-account promotions may let you earn additional Stars or travel rewards when you complete qualifying activities. These offers and requirements can change, so read the current terms before participating.

This option is especially useful if you already use one of the participating travel programs. Avoid signing up for services you do not need simply to earn a small number of Stars.

Enter Legitimate Starbucks Giveaways

Bloggers, local businesses, radio stations and national brands sometimes give away Starbucks gift cards as part of a promotion.

Before entering, make sure the giveaway comes from a recognizable business or established account. Read the official rules and verify how the winner will be contacted.

A legitimate giveaway will not ask you to pay a processing fee, purchase another gift card or provide banking information to receive your prize.

Watch for Seasonal Starbucks Promotions

Starbucks runs limited-time offers throughout the year. These may include Bonus Star challenges, games, special app offers or promotions connected to seasonal menu releases.

Open the Starbucks app regularly and keep promotional emails turned on so you do not miss an offer. Always check the dates and requirements because some deals are only available to selected members or at participating stores.

How to Avoid Free Starbucks Gift Card Scams

Be careful with websites, emails and social media messages that promise a large gift card for completing a simple task.

Common warning signs include:

• A request for payment or a processing fee
• A message claiming you won a contest you never entered
• A request for your Starbucks password or banking details
• A link that does not lead to an official or recognizable website
• Pressure to act immediately
• Instructions to buy another gift card before receiving yours

Never share a gift card number or PIN with someone you do not know. If an offer looks suspicious, go directly to the company’s official website instead of clicking the link in the message.

Sign up for Fetch Rewards!

I have been using Fetch Rewards for awhile now and I love redeeming my points for free Starbucks! With Fetch Rewards, you simply scan your shopping receipt after buying everyday grocery items with the app. You then earn points for the items you buy and you can redeem your points for gift cards and more! 

You even earn points when your friends and family sign up too! You can earn $2 in rewards when you sign up with Fetch Rewards!

Make Your Favorite Starbucks Recipes at Home

When you don’t have enough Stars for a free drink, making your favorite order at home is another easy way to save money. My collection of copycat Starbucks recipes includes simple drinks and treats you can make without a trip through the drive-thru.

Try a creamy Starbucks White Chocolate Mocha, a refreshing Starbucks Strawberry Acai Refresher or an easy Iced Vanilla Latte. For something fruity, make this tropical Starbucks Paradise Drink with pineapple, passion fruit and coconut milk.

You can also browse these Starbucks drink recipes for even more coffeehouse-inspired drinks that cost much less to prepare at home.

The post How to Get Free Starbucks Drinks and Gift Cards appeared first on Momma Lew.

The good news is that Topgolf is designed for everyone, from experienced golfers to complete beginners.

It’s a fun place to enjoy friendly competition, good food, and time with family or friends.

You’ll learn what to expect at Topgolf, including age limits, what to wear, how the games work, and a few helpful tips to make your first visit as enjoyable as possible.

What Is Topgolf?

• Up to six people can play in one bay at a time.
• Interactive golf games that anyone can play—no experience needed.
• Microchipped golf balls automatically track your score.
• Climate-controlled hitting bays for year-round fun.
• Full food and drink menu served right to your bay.
• Great for families, date nights, birthdays, and group outings.
• Golf clubs are provided, so you can just show up and play.

Is Topgolf Good for Kids?

Yes! Topgolf is a fun family activity for kids of nearly every age. The games are easy to learn, the scoring is automatic, and players can simply focus on hitting the targets instead of worrying about traditional golf rules.

Many locations offer kid-sized clubs, high chairs, changing tables, and family-friendly menu options. Kids love watching the golf balls fly across the field, and parents appreciate that everyone can play together, regardless of experience.

If you’re visiting with younger children, weekday afternoons and early evenings are often less crowded, making for a more relaxed experience.

Topgolf Age Limit: How Old Do You Have to Be?

One of the most common questions people ask is whether there’s a Topgolf age limit. The good news is that guests of all ages are welcome at Topgolf, making it a great destination for families.

Children can play as long as they’re supervised by an adult. Golf clubs are available in junior sizes, making it easier for younger players to join the fun.

While there isn’t a company-wide minimum age requirement to play, many Topgolf locations have rules about minors visiting later in the evening. At many venues, guests under 16 must be supervised by someone 21 or older after 9:00 p.m., although policies can vary by location.

If you’re planning to visit with kids or teenagers, it’s always a good idea to check your local Topgolf’s rules before you go.

Is Topgolf Fun for Non-Golfers?

Absolutely! In fact, many people who visit Topgolf have never played golf before.

The games are designed to be easy to understand, and the technology tracks your score automatically. Instead of worrying about perfect swings, you’ll simply try to hit colorful targets spread across the field.

Even if golfing isn’t your thing, Topgolf offers plenty to enjoy, including:

• Great food and drinks
• Comfortable lounge-style seating
• Music and TVs throughout the venue
• Friendly competition with family and friends
• Seasonal events and special promotions

Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, planning a date night, or just looking for something different to do, Topgolf is designed to be entertaining for everyone—not just golfers.

What to Wear to Topgolf

The dress code is casual, so comfort is the best choice.

Best Shoes for Topgolf

Comfortable sneakers are the most popular option since you’ll be standing and swinging throughout your visit. Athletic shoes work great, while sandals or high heels may not be the most comfortable. Golf shoes are welcome but aren’t required.

Outfit Ideas

Choose clothes that allow you to move freely, such as:

• Jeans
• Shorts
• Athletic wear
• Leggings
• T-shirts
• Polo shirts
• Hoodies
• Casual dresses with comfortable shoes

Since every hitting bay is climate-controlled, you’ll stay comfortable during most weather, but bringing a light jacket is a good idea if you’re visiting during cooler months.

My Tips for Your First Visit to Topgolf

Here are a few things I wish I knew before my first visit:

• Reserve your bay online, especially on weekends.
• Arrive a little early to check in and get settled.
• Wear comfortable clothes and supportive shoes.
• If you’re visiting with a group, splitting the cost of the bay makes it surprisingly affordable.
• Don’t stress about your golf skills—Topgolf is designed for beginners as much as experienced golfers.
• Take breaks to enjoy the food and drinks between games.
• Bring your phone charged because you’ll probably want to take lots of photos!

The post TopGolf: Fun for Everyone, No Golf Skills Required appeared first on Momma Lew.

Whether you’re shopping for the foodie friend, the gadget lover, or the person who already has everything, these guides have you covered with creative ideas for everyone on your list.

Get ready to find thoughtful gifts that feel personal and unique, while making your holiday (or birthday) shopping stress-free.

Dive into these carefully curated lists and make every gift count—your friends and family will thank you!

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you when you make a purchase through my links. Thank you for supporting my kitchen!

• Cold Brew Coffee Gifts 
• Gift Ideas for Pasta Lovers 
• Gift Ideas for Men Who Like to Cook 
• Gifts for Iced Coffee Lovers 
• Creative Wine Gift Wrapping Ideas 
• Gifts for Steak Lovers
• Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas for Everyone 

What is a Gifting Guide?

A gifting guide, or gift guide, is a curated list designed to make gift shopping easier. It includes suggestions for various types of recipients (e.g., kids, coworkers) or occasions (e.g., birthdays, Christmas). They help narrow down ideas to match interests, budgets, and personalities.

The post Gift Guides appeared first on Momma Lew.

These adorable snack bags take just a few supplies and can be filled with everything from crackers and cereal to fruit and sweet treats.

Kids love helping make them, and they’re a simple craft that doubles as a snack idea.

Whether you’re planning a birthday party, putting together school snacks, or looking for creative food ideas for kids, these colorful butterfly treats come together in minutes and make snack time more exciting. 

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you when you make a purchase through my links. Thank you for supporting my kitchen!

Why You’ll Love These Butterfly Snack Bags

• Easy to make with simple craft supplies
• Great for school parties and classroom snacks
• Kids can help decorate and assemble them
• Works with healthy snacks or sweet treats
• Easy to customize for holidays and parties
• Ready in just minutes

How to make butterfly snack bags with pipe cleaner?

• Start by filling a snack-size zip-top bag with your favorite treats like fruit, cereal, crackers, popcorn, or pretzels.

• Be careful not to overfill the bag and gently press out any excess air before sealing it tightly.
• Next, separate the snacks so half sit on each side of the bag, leaving a small space in the center.
• Wrap a pipe cleaner around the center of the bag to create the butterfly’s body.
• Twist it securely in the middle, then twist the top ends together and curl them outward to form antennae.

• Repeat with additional snack bags and customize them with colorful pipe cleaners, googly eyes, or clothespins for an extra fun touch.

Snack filling ideas:

• Goldfish crackers
• Pretzels
• Grapes
• Cereal
• Popcorn
• Trail mix
• Mini marshmallows
• Crackers
• Fruit snacks

Looking for more easy snack ideas?

Planning a party, summer gathering, or camp activity? Check out these fun ideas too:

• Need crowd-pleasing treats for your next celebration? From finger foods and colorful sweets to fun kid-friendly snacks, these birthday party snack ideas make party planning easier and keep everyone happy.
• When the weather heats up, easy summer snacks are always a good idea. Think refreshing fruit treats, no-bake favorites, frozen snacks, and simple bites perfect for pool days and backyard fun.
• Campfire snacks are part of the fun whether you’re camping or hanging out in the backyard. From gooey treats to easy handheld snacks, these ideas bring plenty of flavor to your outdoor adventures.

DIY Butterfly Snack Bags

These Butterfly Snack Bags are a fun and easy kid-friendly snack idea made with snack bags, pipe cleaners, and your favorite treats. Perfect for classroom parties, birthday celebrations, spring activities, and lunchbox surprises, these adorable butterfly snacks come together in just minutes.

Print Pin Rate

Course: Crafts

Keyword: Butterfly Snack Bags, DIY Butterfly Snack Bags

Prep Time: 5 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 5 minutes minutes

Total Time: 5 minutes minutes

Servings: 12

Author: momma lew

Equipment

• Scissors

Ingredients

• Snack bags
• Pipe cleaners
• Snacks: fruit cereal goldfish, pretzels, cheerios

Instructions

• Place snack of your choice in each snack bag.
• Do not overfill.
• Release as much air from the bag as possible and seal the bag.
• Divide the snacks in the middle of the bag (this is where the pipe cleaner will wrap around the bag.)
• Fold the seal of the bag over towards the back to hide it.
• Wrap a pipe cleaner around the center of the bag of snacks.
• Twist the pipe cleaner at the top a few times.
• Then, use your finger or a pencil to create the butterfly's antennae for the butterfly by twisting it around.
• Repeat this process for the desired amount of snacks and butterflies you will need.
• Display your butterflies and then serve!

Tried this recipe?Mention @ #mommalewsblog or tag #mommalewsblog!

The post Butterfly Snack Bags appeared first on Momma Lew.

Whether your teen wants adventure, creative projects, fun with friends, or relaxing summer memories, this list is packed with ideas to make summer break unforgettable.

From late-night bonfires and beach days to DIY projects and road trips, these ideas help beat boredom and create memories they’ll talk about long after summer ends.

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you when you make a purchase through my links. Thank you for supporting my kitchen!

Why Teens Need a Summer Bucket List

It’s a fun way to stay active, try new things, and make the most of summer vacation. Instead of hearing “I’m bored” every day, teens can challenge themselves to check off exciting activities throughout the season.

Whether you’re planning a low-cost summer at home or filling weekends with adventures, creating a bucket list gives teens something to look forward to all summer long.

Tips for Creating the Best Summer Bucket List

• Take photos along the way to create lasting memories.
• Mix big adventures with simple everyday fun.
• Include free or low-cost activities.
• Let teens personalize the list with their own goals.
• Print the list out and check activities off all summer.

Make This the Best Summer Yet

The best part about this Summer Bucket List for Teens is that it can be completely customized. Whether teens want exciting adventures, relaxing days, creative projects, or fun nights with friends, there’s something here for everyone.

Summer goes by fast, so start planning now and make every sunny day count!

Grab the free printable bucket list and fill it with your own summer adventures, goals, and memories.

The post Summer Bucket List Ideas for Teens appeared first on Momma Lew.

This free printable turns nature walks, campground downtime, and backyard camping nights into an interactive game kids actually stay engaged with.

It’s perfect for road trips, summer camp activities, scouting groups, or quiet time around the campsite when everyone needs something simple and screen-free to do.

Just print the cards, grab a pencil or markers, and let kids start spotting camping-themed items as they play along with this easy outdoor bingo game.

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you when you make a purchase through my links. Thank you for supporting my kitchen!

What’s Included in the Free Camping Bingo Printable

• Printable camping bingo cards
• Camping-themed picture squares
• Easy-to-follow instructions
• Fun for preschool through elementary ages
• Perfect for campground or backyard camping

Why Kids Love Playing Camping Bingo

This game makes outdoor time feel like a scavenger hunt adventure. Instead of just walking around the campground, kids stay engaged as they search for:

• campfires
• tents
• trees
• wildlife
• hiking gear
• stars
• and more!

How to Play Camping Bingo

1. Download the free printable
2. Print one card per player
3. Grab markers, crayons, or small snacks to use as bingo markers
4. Explore your campsite and look for matching items
5. First player to complete a row wins!

Optional variations:

• blackout bingo
• nature walk bingo
• road trip bingo version
• team bingo

How to Print the Camping Bingo Cards

For best results:

• use dry erase markers
• print on cardstock
• laminate for reuse
• store in a camping activity binder

Amazon Basics Sheet Protectors for 3 Ring Binder, Heavyweight, Acid-Free, Clear Plastic Sleeves, Letter Size, 8.5 x 11 Inch, 100-PackAmazon Basics Dry Erase Whiteboard Markers, Chisel Tip, Low-Odor, Assorted Colors, 12-Pack, Erase EasilyAmazon Basics Colorful, Sturdy, Lightweight Plastic Clipboards, Letter Size, Assorted Colors, Pack of 6

More Camping Activities for Kids

If your family enjoyed this bingo game, try these fun ideas next:

• Printable Camping Planner
• Camping Cookbook and our Camping Snacks Guide
• Gardening Scavenger Hunt

The post Free Camping Bingo Printable appeared first on Momma Lew.

Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ, relaxing on the porch, or planning a cozy evening on the patio, you want something that actually works—without spending a fortune or running to the store last minute.

The best part? These candles are a surprisingly easy craft idea to make!

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you when you make a purchase through my links. Thank you for supporting my kitchen!

How do you make citronella candles in mason jars?

• Start by drilling a small hole in the center of your mason jar lid and threading a natural wick through it, leaving a couple of inches exposed at the top and the rest reaching the bottom of the jar.
• Fill the jar with citronella oil or torch fuel, adding any extra essential oils if you’d like a custom scent, then secure the lid in place.
• Finish by trimming the wick to about ¼ inch and decorating the jar if desired.
• Your homemade citronella candle is now ready to use for patios, backyard nights, or camping trips.

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Tips for Making DIY Citronella Candles in Mason Jars

• Use the right wick – Natural cotton or hemp wicks burn cleaner and give you a more even flame, which helps your citronella candle last longer.
• Don’t skip the lid fit – Make sure the wick is centered and the lid is secure—this keeps the flame steady and prevents uneven burning.
• Customize your scent – Add a few drops of essential oils like lavender, eucalyptus, or lemon to enhance the scent while still keeping the bug-repelling benefits.
• Keep the wick trimmed – Trim to about ¼ inch before each use to avoid smoke and keep the flame controlled.

While you’re planning more time outside, be sure to check out these fun and easy ideas to make the most of your summer days, too.

• Ice Cream Cone Bird Feeders are a simple and fun activity that lets kids create a sweet treat for backyard birds while enjoying some hands-on outdoor time.
• These Summer Bucket List Ideas will help you fill your days with memorable, family-friendly activities that keep everyone excited all season long.
• A Gardening Scavenger Hunt for Kids turns time in the yard into an adventure, encouraging little ones to explore nature while staying entertained.
• Lemonade Recipes are perfect for cooling off on warm days and make a refreshing addition to any backyard hangout.
• Camping Meal Ideas make outdoor cooking easy and stress-free, whether you’re heading to the campsite or just enjoying a night in your backyard.

DIY Mason Jar Citronella Candles

Learn how to make Mason Jar Citronella Candles with simple supplies. A quick, budget-friendly way to repel mosquitoes outdoors.

Print Pin Rate

Course: Fun

Keyword: DIY Citronella Candles in Mason Jars, DIY Mason Jar Citronella Candles

Prep Time: 5 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 5 minutes minutes

Total Time: 10 minutes minutes

Servings: 1 mason jar citronella candle

Author: momma lew

Cost: $5

Equipment

• a screwdriver and hammer or a dremel

Ingredients

• Tiki Torch replacement wicks or 1/8″ candle wicks
• A Mason Jar with lid
• Citronella

Instructions

• I opted to use one of my mason jars and a lid meant to transform your mason jar into a cup. It worked perfectly for my purpose!
• Just keep in mind if you do this, to remove the rubber stopper.
• If you don't use a lid like this and decide to use the mason jar lid, use a screwdriver and hammer or a dremel to poke a hole in the middle of your lid.
• Pull your wick through the hole, fill the jar with citronella and voila! A DIY Mason Jar Citronella Candle!

Notes

Tip: Having trouble getting the wick through the hole? Use a small piece of duct tape to wrap the end of the wick and then pull it through the hole.

Tried this recipe?Mention @ #mommalewsblog or tag #mommalewsblog!

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