Showing posts with label ideas. Show all posts
Showing posts with label ideas. Show all posts

Tuesday, January 26, 2021

New Valentine's Day Traditions: Having Fun During COVID-19


New Valentine's Day Traditions: Having Fun During COVID-19

Valentine's Day is about "love" and it's not just for couples.  Something we could all use during the Coronavirus/COVID-19 pandemic. So, here are a few ways to celebrate

For Singles
1) Turn Your Home Into a Spa -  Light some candles, make a hot bath, order some lotion, a bottle of wine.  

2) Random Acts of Kindness - Do something nice for someone else who is single.  A small gesture can go a long way.  A simple note, candy, or some guilty pleasure you know they like.  For ideas, visit: https://www.randomactsofkindness.org/

3) Singles Only - Host a singles-only virtual party.  Invite a diverse group of people from various parts of your life.  Encourage dressing up and fun cocktails.  Invite people to show off a talent or interest they have.  

4) You're Such A Miranda - Binge watch Sex and the City.  If that's too much about relationships for you, there are plenty of comedies and stand-up streaming as well.

5) I'm Not Cooking For Just Myself - Treat yourself to your favorite takeout.

6) Treat Yo' Self - It's good to spoil yourself sometimes.  Personally, I'm not a big fan about "stuff."  I have too much and somehow I keep collecting more.  But, I do like the simple pleasures of food and drink.  It can be a whole meal.  But, I've had lots of great times just with a bag of chips and a can of something for a neighborhood walk.  

7) More Please! - Make your favorite dessert.  Is there anything better than that?  This photo of homemade snicker bars (below) was taken 7 years ago and I can still taste them from memory.  Here's the recipe just in case: https://butterwithasideofbread.com/homemade-snickers-bars/


For Couples
1) Breakfast Date - Mimosa and pajamas.  It's Sunday this year, so start early.

2) Hiking - Go to favorite or meaningful spot

3) Takeout Lunch - Eat on hike or while enjoying overlook

4) Virtual Wine Tasting - There are plenty to choose from.  Order a variety of wine and learn about them from the comfort of your own home.  The best part, you don't have to drive afterwards.  Here's an article that may help: https://www.liquor.com/best-virtual-wine-tastings-5025086

5) Make a Special Dinner - Favorite foods or what you had on first date.  Or from some other occasion like a honeymoon or special event.  You can keep it simple and just make something you both really like too.  

6) Board Games Are Sexy? - Get a game to spice up the relationship: https://www.mydomaine.com/the-best-sexy-board-games-for-couples-1021943

7) Make Cocktails - There's lot of options and even virtual classes: https://www.virtualcocktailclass.com/

8) Game Night - Valentine's Day doesn't have to be only couples in love.  Some couples have kids.  Or they see each other every moment of every day and would like to have a virtual double date.  Here are some game ideas: SongPop, Heads Up Houseparty, Ticket To Ride, Animal Crossing, Mario Kart Tour, Coin Master, Harry Potter: Hogwarts mystery, Exploding Kittens, Words With Friends, Werewolf, Jackbox, Scrabble, Clue, Marvel Strike Force, Fortnite, Golf Battle, Quiz Up, Scattergories, Fishdom, and so many more!!!

9) Romantic Movies - Snuggle on the couch with a glass of wine.  Here's a list of the best romantic movies: https://www.rottentomatoes.com/top/bestofrt/top_100_romance_movies/



For Kids
1) Decorate the House - Cover your house with hearts.  Write a note on each one telling about something or someone you're grateful for.

2) Special Meal and/or dessert - Make something fun for the kids.  It can be something silly like a heart shaped pizza.  

3) I Love My Family - Start the day with a big family hug.  Write messages to each other saying what you love about them.  And then find an activity you can all do together to have fun.  

4) Love Notes - Write several notes to your kids saying what you love about them.  Put them in places they'll randomly find them like their shoes, cereal box, backpack, lunchbox, TV, phone charger, pillow, etc.  


For Everyone
1) Will You Be My Valentine? - Make and send Valentine Day cards for friends, family, and other loved ones.  Let them know how grateful you are to have them in your life.

2) Unite Family and Friends With Video Chat - Use Zoom, Skype, Facetime, or other video chat service to talk with family and friends that are near and far. Start a "room" where people can join you for the day. Let them come and go as they please. 

3) Volunteer - What is important to you? There's so much need in the world. Spare a moment to help and organization that will make the world a better place.

4) Valentine Call - Zoom or call a friend, family member, co-worker or other person that you're grateful to know. Tell them you appreciate for them. And why you care for them.

5) Thankful Expression - Everyone has some form of creative outlet: drawing, singing, dancing, woodworking, etc. Make a gift for someone special

6) Support Local Businesses - Many local businesses offer curbside pick-up, delivery, and other COVID-19/Coronavirus safe options for their products.  Supporting small businesses struggling in your community will help your neighbors have a good holiday too.

7) Romantic Music - There's so many love songs and so much you can do with it.  Listen to a radio stations, make your own playlist, make a mixtape for someone, write your own song, etc.!  Music is a great way to get in the Valentine spirit.

8) Share Memories - Ask questions like "what was your best gift?" "what is your earliest Valentine's Day memory?" and "what's the strangest thing you've experienced during the Valentine's?"  Get things started and it can provide you fun entertainment.

9) Share Memories Online - Post a Valentine's Day photo and tell us a story about it.  Let us know who was there, what you're doing, when this happened, where it was, and why it was special.  Then invite your friends and family to do the same.

10) Get Dressed Up - Want to make a moment feel special?  Wear something fancy.  We've all been home wearing pajamas and being lazy.  Do something fun, eat a nice meal, and take photos while looking stylish.


DON'T FORGET TO HAVE FUN!
And, please feel free to contact if you have any questions or suggestions!
Health and Safety Considerations for gathering:
1) No indoor activities
2) No sharing bathrooms
3) Wash hands before and after gathering.  Don't touch your face.
4) Bring your own food, snacks, drinks, and utensils.
5) Do not attend if you have asthma, heart disease, diabetes, overweight, have/survived cancer, or 50+ year old.
6) Do not attend if you have or have had Coronavirus or showing symptoms (https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/symptoms-testing/symptoms.html).
8) Limit attendance.  Check local health department for guidelines and restrictions.
9) Talk with everyone about comfort levels.  Expect and allow non-participation and last minute cancellations.

Mike Kraus was born on the industrial shoreline of Muskegon, Michigan. After earning his Fine Arts Degree from The School of the Art Institute of Chicago, he attended Grand Valley State University for his graduate degree. From there, he gained varied experiences from the Chicago Architecture Foundation, Art Institute of Chicago, Hauenstein Center For Presidential Studies, Lollypop Farm Humane Society, and the Children's Memorial Foundation. And every place he worked, he had his sketchbook with him and found ways to be actively creative. In 2014, Kraus became a full-time artist by establishing Mike Kraus Art. Since then, he has sold hundreds of paintings that are displayed in nearly every state and dozens of countries. Currently, Kraus lives in Rochester, New York with his beautiful wife and goofy dog.

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Tuesday, January 19, 2021

The President's Cat: Having Fun During COVID-19


The President's Cat: Having Fun During COVID-19

Coronavirus/COVID-19 has allowed us to spend a lot more time with our pets.  So, let's talk about them!  Make some entertainment from an old parlor game.  

1) Getting Together - Make some snacks and beverages and gather your household family/roommates.

Game Rules:
2) The President's Cat Is a _______ Cat - The first player starts and using an adjective beginning with the letter "A."  For example, "The President's cat is an amazing cat."  Each player repeats using a different adjective.  When it returns to the first player, they move on to a letter "B" adjective.  This continues through the alphabet. 

3) Um...  Um...  Um... - If a player fails to come up with an adjective or repeats one previously used, they are out of the game.

4) Variety Is The Spice Of Life - Too simple or difficult?  Try these variations:
a) Set a timer - Everyone has 10-15 second to say their line
b) Clap in unison to set a pace for saying your lines.
c) Have the group speak in a rhythm to set the pace for saying lines.
d) Change the letter each person instead of each round.
e) Remember all previous and add your own adjective on each turn. For example the six player would say, "The President's cat is an able, bubbly, caring, dazzling, energetic, funny cat."  
f) Turn it into a drinking game.  Take a shot or swig every time you're out.
g) Have a prize for the winner(s).  It can be something simple.  For example, you get a piece of Starburst for each round and a Snicker bar for the most overall wins.  

DON'T FORGET TO HAVE FUN!
And, please feel free to contact if you have any questions or suggestions!

Health and Safety Considerations for gathering:
1) No indoor activities
2) No sharing bathrooms
3) Wash hands before and after gathering.  Don't touch your face.
4) Bring your own food, snacks, drinks, and utensils.
5) Do not attend if you have asthma, heart disease, diabetes, overweight, have/survived cancer, or 50+ year old.
6) Do not attend if you have or have had Coronavirus or showing symptoms (https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/symptoms-testing/symptoms.html).
8) Limit attendance.  Check local health department for guidelines and restrictions.
9) Talk with everyone about comfort levels.  Expect and allow non-participation and last minute cancellations.

Mike Kraus was born on the industrial shoreline of Muskegon, Michigan. After earning his Fine Arts Degree from The School of the Art Institute of Chicago, he attended Grand Valley State University for his graduate degree. From there, he gained varied experiences from the Chicago Architecture Foundation, Art Institute of Chicago, Hauenstein Center For Presidential Studies, Lollypop Farm Humane Society, and the Children's Memorial Foundation. And every place he worked, he had his sketchbook with him and found ways to be actively creative. In 2014, Kraus became a full-time artist by establishing Mike Kraus Art. Since then, he has sold hundreds of paintings that are displayed in nearly every state and dozens of countries. Currently, Kraus lives in Rochester, New York with his beautiful wife and goofy dog.

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Tuesday, January 12, 2021

Michelangelo Parlor Game: Having Fun During COVID-19


Michelangelo Parlor Game: Having Fun During COVID-19

Having fun during Coronavirus/COVID-19 means getting creative, dusting off old ideas, and trying new things.  At this time of year, parlor games are a great form of entertainment.

1) Getting Together - Make some snacks and beverages and gather your household family/roommates.  Maybe some art inspired drinks: https://www.dailyartmagazine.com/cocktails-inspired-by-art/?

2) The Space - Use a space that is free from dangerous clutter and other obstructions.  It can be a living room, basement, outside.  And more people will require more space.  

3) Choose Your Props Wisely - Go through your garage, attic, basement, closets, etc. and find funny and strange items.  Place them throughout the space.


Game Rules:
4) I Am Michelangelo - Select who will be "Michelangelo" first.  It can be assigned, random, or whatever

5) The Artist At Work - "Michelangelo" will walk up to each person and pose them in the position he would like.  It can be serious or funny.  But, the "sculpture" cannot laugh, talk, move, or smile unless instructed by "Michelangelo."  

6) Actions Speak Louder Than Words - The "sculpture" that laughed, talked, moved, or smiles first is the new "Michelangelo."

7) Friendship Is Sharing - Adjust according to size of the group.  But, make sure everyone can participate.  For example, limit "Michelangelo" to 3 moves per "sculpture" before moving to next "sculpture."  And/or establish an order of turns for all "sculptures." 

8) Variety Is The Spice Of Life - Too simple or difficult?  Try these variations:
a) When being sculpted, give them something to read or sing.  
b) "What Am I Doing?" version: "Michelangelo" is given a description by the previous "Michelangelo," like "throwing a football."  "Michelangelo" has to pose the "sculpture" while other participants guess.  The more specific, the better.
c) "What Am I Doing?" Teams: Same as above (b), but divide into two groups if you have a household of 6+ people.
d) Movie Edition: "Michelangelo" chooses a scene from a movie and can use anyone as a "sculpture" to recreate it.  Everyone, including "sculptures" can guess.  Set a timer and take turns.
e) There are countless versions.  Let me know if you have another fun variation.  

DON'T FORGET TO HAVE FUN!
And, please feel free to contact if you have any questions or suggestions!

Health and Safety Considerations for gathering:
1) No indoor activities
2) No sharing bathrooms
3) Wash hands before and after gathering.  Don't touch your face.
4) Bring your own food, snacks, drinks, and utensils.
5) Do not attend if you have asthma, heart disease, diabetes, overweight, have/survived cancer, or 50+ year old.
6) Do not attend if you have or have had Coronavirus or showing symptoms (https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/symptoms-testing/symptoms.html).
8) Limit attendance.  Check local health department for guidelines and restrictions.
9) Talk with everyone about comfort levels.  Expect and allow non-participation and last minute cancellations.

Mike Kraus was born on the industrial shoreline of Muskegon, Michigan. After earning his Fine Arts Degree from The School of the Art Institute of Chicago, he attended Grand Valley State University for his graduate degree. From there, he gained varied experiences from the Chicago Architecture Foundation, Art Institute of Chicago, Hauenstein Center For Presidential Studies, Lollypop Farm Humane Society, and the Children's Memorial Foundation. And every place he worked, he had his sketchbook with him and found ways to be actively creative. In 2014, Kraus became a full-time artist by establishing Mike Kraus Art. Since then, he has sold hundreds of paintings that are displayed in nearly every state and dozens of countries. Currently, Kraus lives in Rochester, New York with his beautiful wife and goofy dog.

at No comments:

Tuesday, January 5, 2021

Blind Man's Bluff: Having Fun During COVID-19


Blind Man's Bluff: Having Fun During COVID-19

Coronavirus/COVID-19 has left many of feeling blind and lost in the darkness.  So, let's have fun and make a game out of it!

1) Getting Together - Make some snacks and beverages and gather your household family/roommates.

2) The Space - Use a space that is free from dangerous clutter and other obstructions.  It can be a living room, basement, outside.  And more people will require more space.  But, make sure that it's also a limited enclosure.  Too few people in a large space will make the game nearly impossible.   


Game Rules:
3) You're "It" - Determine who will be "it" first.  You can draw straws, guess a number, or randomly assign.  Whatever your group thinks is most fair or easiest.  Once selected, the person that is "it" will be blindfolded.

4) Other Participants - Move around the space trying to avoid the person that is "it."  And it is encouraged that you find ways to distract and trick "it" into changing directions. 

5) GOTCHA! - When "it" catches someone, they will become "it" and play will continue.   

6) Variety Is The Spice Of Life - Too simple or difficult?  Try these variations:
a) Everyone blindfold!  A lot of surprises when you try to avoid what you can't see.
b) The person who is "it" must also guess correctly who they caught to pass on the blindfold.
c) Sit in a circle and have "it" sit in the middle.  Have "it" spin for 10 seconds while everyone in the circle changes places.  "It" will point to participant who will oink like a pig.  "It" will have to guess who the participant is.  Once correct, that person is now "it."
d) If you're "it" you sit out the following rounds after you've tagged another "it."  And have a small prize for the final player never caught.
e) To slow participants down, require them to carry a cumbersome object.  It could be a large pillow, full glasses of water, something heavy, etc.    

DON'T FORGET TO HAVE FUN!
And, please feel free to contact if you have any questions or suggestions!


Health and Safety Considerations for gathering:
1) No indoor activities
2) No sharing bathrooms
3) Wash hands before and after gathering.  Don't touch your face.
4) Bring your own food, snacks, drinks, and utensils.
5) Do not attend if you have asthma, heart disease, diabetes, overweight, have/survived cancer, or 50+ year old.
6) Do not attend if you have or have had Coronavirus or showing symptoms (https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/symptoms-testing/symptoms.html).
8) Limit attendance.  Check local health department for guidelines and restrictions.
9) Talk with everyone about comfort levels.  Expect and allow non-participation and last minute cancellations.

Mike Kraus was born on the industrial shoreline of Muskegon, Michigan. After earning his Fine Arts Degree from The School of the Art Institute of Chicago, he attended Grand Valley State University for his graduate degree. From there, he gained varied experiences from the Chicago Architecture Foundation, Art Institute of Chicago, Hauenstein Center For Presidential Studies, Lollypop Farm Humane Society, and the Children's Memorial Foundation. And every place he worked, he had his sketchbook with him and found ways to be actively creative. In 2014, Kraus became a full-time artist by establishing Mike Kraus Art. Since then, he has sold hundreds of paintings that are displayed in nearly every state and dozens of countries. Currently, Kraus lives in Rochester, New York with his beautiful wife and goofy dog.

at No comments:

Tuesday, December 29, 2020

New-New Years Eve Traditions: Having Fun During COVID-19


New-New Years Eve Traditions: Having Fun During COVID-19

GOODBYE 2020!  Due to the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) pandemic, no one will be sad to see you go.  And we have high expectations that 2021 will be better.  To make sure that happens, here are some fun and safe ideas for celebrating.

1) Watch the Ball Drop - Starting at 8PM (EST), there will be musical performances and celebrity interviews live from Times Square on NBC, ABC, Fox, CNN, and TimesSquareNYC.org.

2) Celebrate With Family and Friends With Video Chat - Use Zoom, Skype, Facetime, or other video chat service to talk with family and friends that are near and far. Start a "room" where people can join you for the night. Let them come and go as they please. 

3) Have Your Favorite Foods - Make a hearty dinner to say good riddance to 2020.  Maybe cookies and snacks for the evening to absorb festive beverages.    


4) Midnight Call - Zoom or call a friend, family member, co-worker or other person that you're grateful to know. Tell them you appreciate for them. And why you care for them.  Wish them a wonderful 2021!

5) Share Memories - Ask questions like "what was your best year?" "what is your earliest New Year's memory?" and "what's the strangest thing you've experienced during the New Year's?"  Get things started and it can provide you fun entertainment.


7) Share Memories Online - Post a New Year's photo and tell us a story about it.  Let us know who was there, what you're doing, when this happened, where it was, and why it was special.  Then invite your friends and family to do the same.

8) New Year's Movies - There's a lot of great movies set around New Years.  Here's a list: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_films_set_around_New_Year.  Use Netflix Party (https://www.netflixparty.com/) and watch your favorites with friends and family.

9) Get Dressed Up - Want New Year's to feel special?  Wear something fancy.  We've all been home wearing pajamas and being lazy.  Do something fun, eat a nice meal, and take photos while looking stylish.


AND DON'T FORGET TO HAVE FUN! And, please feel free to contact if you have any questions or suggestions!


Health and Safety Considerations for gathering:
1) No indoor activities
2) No sharing bathrooms
3) Wash hands before and after gathering. Don't touch your face.
4) Bring your own food, snacks, drinks, and utensils.
5) Do not attend if you have asthma, heart disease, diabetes, overweight, have/survived cancer, or 50+ year old.
6) Do not attend if you have or have had Coronavirus or showing symptoms (https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/symptoms-testing/symptoms.html).
8) Limit attendance. Check local health department for guidelines and restrictions.
9) Talk with everyone about comfort levels. Expect and allow non-participation and last minute cancellations.

Mike Kraus was born on the industrial shoreline of Muskegon, Michigan. After earning his Fine Arts Degree from The School of the Art Institute of Chicago, he attended Grand Valley State University for his graduate degree. From there, he gained varied experiences from the Chicago Architecture Foundation, Art Institute of Chicago, Hauenstein Center For Presidential Studies, Lollypop Farm Humane Society, and the Children's Memorial Foundation. And every place he worked, he had his sketchbook with him and found ways to be actively creative. In 2014, Kraus became a full-time artist by establishing Mike Kraus Art. Since then, he has sold hundreds of paintings that are displayed in nearly every state and dozens of countries. Currently, Kraus lives in Rochester, New York with his beautiful wife and goofy dog.
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Tuesday, December 22, 2020

INSTANT GIFTS!

Brightscapes: The Way To Beauty


Instant Art To Download!
© copyright Mike Kraus

OOPS!!!  While wrapping gifts you realized you forgot someone.  Or their gift was lost or never arrived by delivery.  No problem.  Download one of 200+ options of artwork and print it for an extra frame around your home.  Or make unique gift tags.  Use them as a virtual background for your online holiday party.  Or use for a thoughtful card to say "Happy Holidays!"  It's an instant gift.  And something to let your loves ones know how much you care.  To view options, please visit: https://www.etsy.com/shop/MikeKrausArt?ref=seller-platform-mcnav&section_id=16654398



Mike Kraus was born on the industrial shoreline of Muskegon, Michigan. After earning his Fine Arts Degree from The School of the Art Institute of Chicago, he attended Grand Valley State University for his graduate degree. From there, he gained varied experiences from the Chicago Architecture Foundation, Art Institute of Chicago, Hauenstein Center For Presidential Studies, Lollypop Farm Humane Society, and the Children's Memorial Foundation. And every place he worked, he had his sketchbook with him and found ways to be actively creative. In 2014, Kraus became a full-time artist by establishing Mike Kraus Art. Since then, he has sold hundreds of paintings that are displayed in nearly every state and dozens of countries. Currently, Kraus lives in Rochester, New York with his beautiful wife and goofy dog.

For more information or custom order, please visit:

 
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Tuesday, December 15, 2020

Mumbo Jumbo Parlor Game: Having Fun During COVID-19


Mumbo Jumbo Parlor Game: Having Fun During COVID-19

Coronavirus/COVID-19 has left many of us speechless.  So, let's have fun and make a game out of it!

1) Getting Together - Make some snacks and beverages and gather your family/roommates in the living room.  Don't have enough people in your home or live alone?  Invite people to play on Zoom, Facetime, Google Hangouts, or countless other virtual platforms. 

2) That's What That Is - Grab your dictionary.  Don't have one, use dictionary.com.  If you want to make this even more difficult, fun, "adult," use the Urban Dictionary.

Game Rules:
3) The Definition Is... - Choose a player who'll start the game.  That player will select an obscure word from the dictionary, but will not reveal the definition.


4) It's All Made Up - One the obscure word is given, all the other players will write down a made up or guessed definition.  When finished, they'll give it to the player who chose the obscure word.   

5) Does That Sound Right? - Make sure all definitions are written discreetly by using the same paper.  If that's not available, have a cardboard screen or other means to block the view.  

The player who chose the obscure word will shuffle the real and made up definitions before reading them out loud.  Feel free to use voices and act it out.  Ham it up.

6) This Is a Democracy - Players will vote for the correct definition of the obscure word.  
a) 1 point for every vote a fake submission receives.
b) 2 points to every player who guesses the correct definition
c) 3 points to the obscure word selector if no one votes for their word
d) 4 points to a player who provides the correct definition to the obscure word.
First player to 20 points wins.  Or you could say whoever has the most points after reading two or three times from the dictionary.  


DON'T FORGET TO HAVE FUN!
And, please feel free to contact if you have any questions or suggestions!


Health and Safety Considerations for gathering:
1) No indoor activities
2) No sharing bathrooms
3) Wash hands before and after gathering.  Don't touch your face.
4) Bring your own food, snacks, drinks, and utensils.
5) Do not attend if you have asthma, heart disease, diabetes, overweight, have/survived cancer, or 50+ year old.
6) Do not attend if you have or have had Coronavirus or showing symptoms (https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/symptoms-testing/symptoms.html).
8) Limit attendance.  Check local health department for guidelines and restrictions.
9) Talk with everyone about comfort levels.  Expect and allow non-participation and last minute cancellations.

Mike Kraus was born on the industrial shoreline of Muskegon, Michigan. After earning his Fine Arts Degree from The School of the Art Institute of Chicago, he attended Grand Valley State University for his graduate degree. From there, he gained varied experiences from the Chicago Architecture Foundation, Art Institute of Chicago, Hauenstein Center For Presidential Studies, Lollypop Farm Humane Society, and the Children's Memorial Foundation. And every place he worked, he had his sketchbook with him and found ways to be actively creative. In 2014, Kraus became a full-time artist by establishing Mike Kraus Art. Since then, he has sold hundreds of paintings that are displayed in nearly every state and dozens of countries. Currently, Kraus lives in Rochester, New York with his beautiful wife and goofy dog.

at No comments:

Tuesday, December 1, 2020

New Holiday Traditions: Having Fun During COVID-19

New Holiday Traditions: Having Fun During COVID-19

IT'S THE HOLIDAYS!  Time for cocoa, celebration, and getting away from work.  During the difficulties of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, it's a good time to reflect on the things we appreciate. To celebrate old traditions in new ways.  A moment to return the kindness we've received from others. 

1) Home Decorating - Half the fun of the holidays is making your home festive.  Here's a few ideas:
-Make a paper countdown chain.  It's a fun way to get kids even more excited for the holiday.
-Find or make a new ornament.  A decoration that commemorates something special to you this year. 
-Prizes!  Hide a decoration and the person who finds it gets an extra gift.
-Cover the outside of your house with lights!
-If you have a large yard, turn it into a holiday maze or other experience for your neighbors.

2) Virtual Lighting Ceremony - Rockefeller Center will be broadcast on National TV (https://www.rockefellercenter.com/holidays/rockefeller-center-christmas-tree-lighting/) on December 2nd at 7pm.  But, there are countless cities and other organizations that will be hosting online events.


Virtual Kwanzaa Celebrations are also taking place (https://www.visitannapolis.org/events/8233)

3) Holiday Hike - My wife and I always look for an excuse to get into nature.  Find a festive hike.  It could be as simple as walking around your neighbor to look at decorations.  It could be finding some place with snow.  What location puts you in the holiday spirit?  



5) Unite Family and Friends With Video Chat - Use Zoom, Skype, Facetime, or other video chat service to talk with family and friends that are near and far. Start a "room" where people can join you for the day. Let them come and go as they please. 

6) Have Your Favorite Foods - Be as traditional or unconventional as you like.  But think about the meals you'd like for the holiday.  Maybe cookies and snacks for the other days to make it feel festive.  Make warm beverages to share at night.  

7) Random Act of Kindness - We all know someone experiencing some form of difficulty in their life. The illness/death of a loved one, job loss, etc. Do something nice for them.

8) Volunteer - What is important to you? There's so much need in the world. Spare a moment to help and organization that will make the world a better place.

9) Gratitude Call - Zoom or call a friend, family member, co-worker or other person that you're grateful to know. Tell them you appreciate for them. And why you care for them.

10) Even Santa Loves Zoom! - Santa Claus is taking COVID precautions.  And this is easier that going to the mall.  And you can record the conversation.  Call Santa at: https://www.santasinthehouse.com/

11) DIY Holiday Cards/Letter - Make your own cards to give to loved ones.  Or write a letter updating friends and family about your life.  Make something personal and tell individuals why you're grateful for them.  Create something public and share it on social media.


12) Thankful Expression - Everyone has some form of creative outlet: drawing, singing, dancing, woodworking, etc. Make a gift for someone special

13) Support Local Businesses - Many local businesses offer curbside pick-up, delivery, and other COVID-19/Coronavirus safe options for their products.  Supporting small businesses struggling in your community will help your neighbors have a good holiday too.

14) Christmas Light Drive-Thru - Various farms, zoos, neighborhoods, individuals and others create amazing holidays displays.  And they want you to see them.  So pack your household in the car and look at the flashing lights, inflatables, music choreography, and so much more.  

15) Holiday Music - There's so much holiday music and so much you can do with it.  Listen to a radio stations, make your own playlist, make a mixtape for someone, write your own song, etc.!  Music is a great way to get in the holiday spirit.

16) Share Memories - Ask questions like "what was your best gift?" "what is your earliest holiday memory?" and "what's the strangest thing you've experienced during the holidays."  Get things started and it can provide you fun entertainment.


17) Share Memories Online - Post a holiday photo and tell us a story about it.  Let us know who was there, what you're doing, when this happened, where it was, and why it was special.  Then invite your friends and family to do the same.

18) Holiday Movies - Make a list of all the holiday movies you'd like to watch.  Make it a full "movie night" with popcorn and hot cocoa.  Use Netflix Party (https://www.netflixparty.com/) and watch your favorites with friends and family.

19) Get Dressed Up - Want to make a moment feel special?  Wear something fancy.  We've all been home wearing pajamas and being lazy.  Do something fun, eat a nice meal, and take photos while looking stylish.

20) Treat Yo' Self - The holidays are stressful.  So, find something for yourself.  What will put you in the holiday mood?  Is there something that will help you relax?  It's okay to take care of yourself too.

21) Write Thank You Cards - It's easy to become jaded from the holidays.  Think of how much time, energy, and money someone spent on you.  Let them know how much you appreciate having them in your life.  Reflecting on that kindness will make you feel good too.


AND DON'T FORGET TO HAVE FUN! And, please feel free to contact if you have any questions or suggestions!


Health and Safety Considerations for gathering:
1) No indoor activities
2) No sharing bathrooms
3) Wash hands before and after gathering. Don't touch your face.
4) Bring your own food, snacks, drinks, and utensils.
5) Do not attend if you have asthma, heart disease, diabetes, overweight, have/survived cancer, or 50+ year old.
6) Do not attend if you have or have had Coronavirus or showing symptoms (https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/symptoms-testing/symptoms.html).
8) Limit attendance. Check local health department for guidelines and restrictions.
9) Talk with everyone about comfort levels. Expect and allow non-participation and last minute cancellations.

Mike Kraus was born on the industrial shoreline of Muskegon, Michigan. After earning his Fine Arts Degree from The School of the Art Institute of Chicago, he attended Grand Valley State University for his graduate degree. From there, he gained varied experiences from the Chicago Architecture Foundation, Art Institute of Chicago, Hauenstein Center For Presidential Studies, Lollypop Farm Humane Society, and the Children's Memorial Foundation. And every place he worked, he had his sketchbook with him and found ways to be actively creative. In 2014, Kraus became a full-time artist by establishing Mike Kraus Art. Since then, he has sold hundreds of paintings that are displayed in nearly every state and dozens of countries. Currently, Kraus lives in Rochester, New York with his beautiful wife and goofy dog.
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