Beans

November is Native American Heritage Month

November is Native American Heritage Month. In 1990, President George H. W. Bush approved a joint resolution designating November “National American Indian Heritage Month.”

“American Indians were the original inhabitants of the lands that now constitute the United States of America,” read H.J. Res. 577. “Native American Indians have made an essential and unique contribution to our Nation” and "to the world."

We celebrate the culture, history, and contributions of Native Americans, Native Hawaiian, Alaska Native, and American Samoans.

Below is a list of some of the events going on during Native American Heritage Month. For links, please see https://www.willystreet.coop/nahm-celebrations.

- Madison Children's Museum is holding an Indigenous Heritage Celebration on Thursday, November 6 from 5pm–8pm. The free event features food, music, art, and dance representing Indigenous traditions across the world.

- Madison Public Library is hosting the online event "Teejop & Beyond: Past/Present/Future: The Artistic Legacy of Truman Lowe" on Nov. 12. Registration is required.

• Teejop & Beyond: Madison Public Library events, such as the Oneida Bead Ornament Workshop on November 7th and the Making Communal Black Ash Baskets workshop on November 22nd. 

- November's free Badger Rock Thanks for Giving CommUNITY Dinner will celebrate Native American Heritage Month with fun activities and guests, and the meal will feature dishes including Wild Rice Casserole and Indian Tacos.

- Milwaukee Public Museum has a variety of events, lectures, and activities, including a Three Rivers Powwow on Nov. 1 .

- Appleton Public Library is teaming up with First Nations Outreach to hold A Day of Ribbons and Giving Back.

Honoring contributions: It's a time to acknowledge the significant contributions Native Americans have made to the nation's character, history, and culture.

Celebrating diversity: The month focuses on the rich and diverse cultures, traditions, and histories of Native American and Alaska Native communities.

Raising awareness: It serves as an opportunity to educate others about the unique cultures of various tribes and the challenges Native Americans have faced, and continue to face.

• Native November Kick Off Feast: Join the kickoff feast catered by BP Smokehouse BBQ.
• Native November Powwow Showcase: A showcase of traditional songs and dances is part of the month's programming.
• Native November Law Symposiums: A series of events focusing on legal challenges facing Indigenous communities.
• Wunk Sheek Wild Berries Feast: An event hosted by Wunk Sheek with food, laughs, and community. 

• Indigenous Heritage Celebration: A free event at the Madison Children's Museum with food, music, art, and dance.
• Teejop & Beyond: Past/Present/Future: The Artistic Legacy of Truman Lowe: An online event from the Madison Public Library on November 12th.
• Native Art Market: A market featuring local and regional Indigenous artists at Arts + Literature Laboratory on November 8th.
• Native November Kick Off Feast: Hosted by the Indigenous Student Center Coalition (ISCC).
• Indigenous Wisconsin: A Story of Resistance: An art show at Madison College from November 4th to December 6th.
• Tales From Planet Earth – Bad River: A free screening of the documentary "Bad River" at the Wisconsin Union Theater on November 18th, followed by a Q&A. 

• Bizhiki Performance: A free performance by the band Bizhiki on Sunday, November 9th at 7 PM at Arts + Literature Laboratory.

by Beans

Helping Our Neighbors Through the SNAP Shutdown

As the federal government shutdown disrupts SNAP (FoodShare) benefits, thousands of Wisconsin families are facing new uncertainty about how to put food on the table.  But our community is stepping up.  Across Dane County and beyond, local food pantries, meal programs, and mutual aid efforts are working hard to fill the gap.

If you or someone you know is experiencing food insecurity, help is available right now — no questions asked.  Below you’ll find a list of trusted local resources offering free groceries, meals, and support for individuals and families affected by the SNAP interruption. Together, we can make sure no one in our community goes hungry.

Willy Street Co-op will be increasing the maximum Double Dollars earnable from $20 to $40 and additionally any amount over $5 spent will get one bonus Double Dollar voucher. For more information visit the link in https://www.willystreet.coop/community/double-dollars

Nov. 5th at Dane Co Farmers Market-SNAP customers receive $20 in Double Dollars, REGARDLESS of current balance (no matching requirement). Visit the Information booth from 8:30am-1pm with your card and they will provide you with $20 in Double Dollars. 

7th Annual FREE Community Thanksgiving at The Lab (Nov. 27)-Offering and celebrating community, diversity, and good food. We'll be opening the taproom to all who choose to celebrate. You're welcome if you are on your own or your group needs a home. The taproom will be open from 1:00-7:00pm with food being served from 3:00-5:00pm. Please reserve a ticket on our Eventbrite page. If you register, and then your plans change, please remember to unregister so someone else can take your slot! https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1758182885339?aff=oddtdtcreator

Baked Wings & Things-providing 50 free lunches at Noon, everyday until SNAP benefits are reinstated. First come first served. 20 State St., Madison.

El Wiscorican-Puerto Rican Cuisine Food Truck-Pay what you can for your meal, follow for location updates: www.facebook.com/elwiscorican

First Congregational United Church of Christ-Thanksgiving Meal Delivery or Pickup-Nov. 27-A free traditional meal of turkey, vegetables, potatoes & gravy, stuffing, rolls and pie will be offered on Thursday, Nov. 27 only from 12-3pm. RSVP required by 3pm Thursday Nov. 20. Call 608-233-9751 or visit firstcongMadison.org to order

Flavors Events and Catering-FREE Taco Meal for Our Community! Open to anyone in need or simply in need of a good meal and good company. No questions, no judgments — just kindness, community, and great food. We believe everyone deserves to share a meal with dignity, so come enjoy freshly made tacos, sides, and smiles. Whether you’re struggling, between paychecks, or just want to connect with others, this meal is for you. Please order at https://www.flavorseventstyling.com/shop. Click on the taco dinner link. Orders will be taken until sold out.

GR’s Sandwich Shoppe-Free hot dog or Grilled Cheese with chips or fries for kids Under 12

HY-VEE-Starting today, all Hy-Vee stores with hot-food service will be offering FREE kids meal for ages 12 and under!

Anyone older can get the meal for just $3, and it’s available for dine-in AND to-go.

The meal changes each day

Monday, Nov. 3: Baked Potato with Pulled Pork

Tuesday, Nov. 4: Spaghetti with Meat Sauce, Salad and Garlic Bread

Wednesday, Nov. 5: Chicken and Noodles with Mashed Potatoes

Thursday, Nov. 6: Chili and a Cinnamon Roll

Friday, Nov. 7: Sesame or Orange Chicken Rice Bowl

ABLE TO HELP: Hy-Vee is also selling food bank donation bundles. For $5 or $10, customers can buy a bag filled with items needed by food banks. Hy-Vee will deliver purchased bags to local food pantries daily

Icki Sticki-Offering 1 Meal and 1 bottle of water per person (offering a “Pay it Forward” board)

Just Veggiez-Children eat FREE, starting Nov.1 until SNAP benefits are restored. Any child visiting can receive 1 free Hotdog kid’s meal per visit (dine-in only), no purchase necessary.

Killer Mane Salon (Sun Prairie)-For the REST OF THE YEAR-offering free haircuts to anyone in need with their apprentices. No questions asked, reach out to salon through phone or email to book appointments.

Lasagna Love-Able to request a handmade pan of lasagna every 30 days, https://lasagnalove.org/request-a-meal/

Ollies-Pay what you can! Meals available Tuesday-Thursday for dine-in. Choice of Roast chicken with mashed potatoes and herbed carrots, smoked tofu with mashed potatoes amd herbed carrots, Mac n Cheese, or butter noodles. If you would like to support their pay it forward program, you can also just contribute to it without purchasing a meal. Visit www.olliesmadison.com

Poke Mi-Throughout the month of November, they created an affordable low-price menu to help ease the burden.

Sunshine Place (Sun Prairie)-Free meals Monday from 5-6pm, and soups provided by Salvatore’s Tomato Pies

Taco Johns-offering a free meal to anyone who needs it! Ask for the “Community Special” which is a bean or beef burrito along with an order of Potato Oles for anyone in need-no questions asked.

UW-Office of Sustainability-Fighting Food Waste with FREE FOOD ALERT! Free Food Alert is an innovative notification system that alerts voluntary subscribers when free food is available on campus. The system is intended to address food insecurity, enrich community building, help your personal finance goals, and reduce food waste. Download the Free Food Alert app on the Apple App Store or Google Play. Simply make an account with your wisc.edu email and you are automatically signed up for notifications! Whenever there is a giveaway on campus, you’ll know!  

Check out this amazing website of loving neighbors willing to help with groceries:

https://madisongroceryshar.wixsite.com/madisongroceryshare

by Beans

Hispanic Heritage Month: Celebrating Pride, Tradition and Heritage

Hispanic Heritage Month is a month-long celebration of Hispanic and Latino history and culture. While we celebrate Hispanic and Latino communities beyond this month, from September 15 to October 15 we give extra recognition to the many contributions made to the history and culture of the United States, including important advocacy work, vibrant art, popular and traditional foods, and much more.

Hispanic Heritage Month provides an additional opportunity to explore the incredible impact Latinas and Latinos have had on the United States for generations. The Latino presence in America spans centuries, predating Spain’s colonization of what is now part of the United States, and they have been an integral part of shaping our nation since the Revolutionary War. Through the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo and the Treaty of Paris that followed the Mexican-American and Spanish-American wars, the United States gained territories in the Southwest and Puerto Rico. This incorporated the people of this area into the United States and further expanded the presence of Hispanic Americans.

Today, the Latino population in the United States today is over 60 million, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This makes up 18.9% of the total population and is the largest racial or ethnic group. Latinos continue to help fuel our economy and enrich our nation as entrepreneurs, athletes, artists, entertainers, scientists, public servants, and much more.

Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated each year from September 15 to October 15. It began as a week-long celebration in 1968 under President Johnson and was expanded to a month by President Reagan 20 years later in 1988. The month-long celebration provides more time to properly recognize the significant contributions Hispanic/Latino Americans have made in the United States.

Hispanic Heritage Month does not cover one single month but instead begins in the middle of September and ends in the middle of October. The timeframe of this month is significant because many Central American countries celebrate their independence days within these dates, beginning on September 15 with Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. By aligning with these independence dates, Hispanic Heritage Month honors the resilience and determination of the Hispanic community. Key Independence Days celebrated within Hispanic Heritage Month include:

• September 15 – Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua
• September 16 – Mexico
• September 18 – Chile
• September 21 – Belize

Learn more about the unique Latin Independence Days traditions and celebrations.

Latinas and Latinos have always held significant roles throughout our country’s history, dating all the way back to the American Revolution. Hispanic Heritage Month is important because it provides an opportunity to celebrate the integral part the Hispanic/Latino community has had in growing and strengthening our democracy.

Representation matters. Latinos and Latinas continue to shape our nation as business owners, activists, artists, public servants, and more. From serving in the U.S. military to being champions in the fight for civil rights, Latinas and Latinos remain strong leaders and changemakers.

It’s crucial to make sure that the contributions of the Latino community are showcased, and that Latinas and Latinos have a voice. According to 2020 data from the U.S. Census Bureau, one in every four children in the United States is Hispanic/Latino. A recent study found that Latino history is largely left out in high school textbooks that are used across the United States, despite the increasing percentage of Latina and Latino students. This also comes at a time when the economic output of American Latinos would rank fifth in the world if the community  were an independent country. As the country continues to increase in diversity, it’s necessary for all citizens to learn more about American Latino experiences to recognize and value the many contributions Latinas and Latinos have made.

Hispanic Heritage Month is an opportunity to shine a spotlight on the unique voices and experiences of Hispanic/Latino Americans and recognize their history, journeys, and achievements. Through these celebrations, we can all help to inspire younger generations and bring communities together.

Learn more about why and how we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month.

Hispanic Heritage Month also provides opportunities to showcase the cultural influences the Latino community has had on the United States. From entertainment and sports to business and science, Latinas and Latinos enrich our society.

As athletes, Latinas and Latinos have been game changers. For example, over the years, the Latino community has helped to shape America’s favorite pastime—baseball. As of opening day in 2023, about 30 percent of Major League Baseball players are Hispanic/Latino. With the accomplishments of past players like Roberto Clemente and present ones such as Francisco Lindor and Javier Báez leading the way, the sport will continue to evolve.

Latinas have also shaped baseball history, serving as players, broadcasters, and team owners. In the 1990s, Linda Alvarado purchased the Colorado Rockies and made history as the first woman to ever win a bid to buy a team. This purchase also resulted in her becoming the first Hispanic MLB team owner. The contributions of Latinas like Alvarado and others, such as baseball player Margaret “Marge” Villa and sportscaster Jessica Mendoza, have forever transformed the game of baseball.

Please explore ways to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month in Madison at your local libraries, a Hispanic Heritage Celebration at the Madison’s Children’s Museum (Oct. 9), Overture Center’s “Tacos Without Borders” culinary experience, Centro Hispano and multiple other locations.

by Beans

Your Guide to Fourth of July Firework Displays

There’s nothing quite like the electric joy of 4th of July fireworks lighting up the summer sky—it's like the stars decided to throw a party and invited everyone! As the first rocket zips upward with a whistle, kids squeal, dogs bark in confused delight, and grown-ups tilt their heads back, wide-eyed and grinning. The night becomes a canvas of color—sparkling golds, sizzling reds, and blues that boom with pride. Each explosion is met with oohs, aahs, and the occasional "Did you see that one?!" It’s chaos, it’s magic, and it smells faintly of barbecue and freedom.

Here’s a guide to Fourth of July celebrations with fireworks around our area:

6/27  Portage Fireworks Celebration - Festival Foods (parking lot) / Gunderson Rd.
6/28 Star Spangled Saturday - Traxler Park in Janesville / 600 N Main St.
6/29  Sun Prairie Fireworks - Angell Park Speedway / 315 Park St.
7/2  Verona Festival Foods Fireworks - Hometown USA Community Park / 531 E Verona Ave.
7/3  DeForest Fourth of July Celebration - Fireman’s Park
7/3  Edgerton Lions Fireworks Festival - Racetrack Park, 900 Stoughton Rd.
7/3  Jefferson County Festival Foods Fireworks - Jefferson County Fair Park / 503 N Jackson Ave.
7/3  Norsk Golf Club Fourth of July Celebration - Mt Horeb / 2755 Norsk Golf Bowl Rd.
7/3  Festival Foods Fireworks - Warner Park in Madison / 2920 N Sherman Ave.
7/3  Watertown Fourth of July Fireworks - Riverside Park / 916 Labaree St.
7/4  Barabooms - UW-Platteville Baraboo Sauk County / 1006 Connie Rd.
7/4  Columbus 4th of July - Fireman’s Park / 1049 Park Ave.
7/4  Evansville 4th of July - Lake Leota Park / 5 Antes Dr.
7/4  Lake Mills Fourth of July Fireworks - Seljan Co. grounds / 100 S C.P. Ave
7/4  Mazomanie Fourth of July Celebration - Lions Park / 14 Walter Rd.
7/4  Milton Fourth of July Festival - Schilberg Park / 301 W High Street
7/4  Monona Community Festival - Winnequah Park / 1055 Nichols Rd.
7/4  Monroe Fireworks - Twining Park / 425 14th Ave.
7/4  Mount Vernon Fireworks - Mt Vernon Park / 1644 State Hwy 92
7/4  Pardeeville 4th of July - Chandler Park / 402 Park Dr.
7/4  Pops on the Rock - Riverside Park in Beloit / S Riverside Dr.
7/4  Reedsburg Freedom Fest & Fireworks - Nishan Park / 1700 8th St.
7/4  Shorewood Hills Fourth of July Celebration - Blackhawk County Club /
7/4  Stoughton Fair - Mandt Park / 400 Mandt Parkway
7/4  Waunaboom - Ripp Park in Waunakee / 213 Dorn Dr.
7/4  Fourth of July Fireworks & Family - Wisconsin Dells / downtown
7/5  Fire on the River - Sauk City River Walk / downtown
7/12 Farmers Appreciation Day - Harris Park in Dodgeville / 600 N Bennett Rd.

by Beans

2025 Top Remodeling/Color Trends

Trying to decide to start small or go BIG with home remodel? Rather you’re trying to freshen up your old digs, or completely gut your current space, I’ve put together a helpful list to help guide you through creating the ultimate comfort zone for your home.  

IN

1. Mid-Century Modern Style

This style is experiencing a resurgence, characterized by clean lines, warm natural wood tones, and bold accents. To achieve this look, combine sleek, minimal cabinetry with geometric tiles and a mix of retro and modern touches. Backlit backsplashes or under-cabinet color-changing LEDs can set different moods or highlight patterns or finishes. Incorporating vintage-style dining tables or bold bar stools can enhance the aesthetic. Lighting fixtures like brass pendants or starburst chandeliers add to the mid-century modern vibe.

2. Sustainable Materials

Eco-friendly materials such as bamboo, reclaimed wood, recycled glass, and stone finishes are gaining popularity.  Check out cork flooring or recycled glass countertops for a touch of luxury. These materials not only provide a unique, natural aesthetic but also contribute to reducing the carbon footprint and are eco-friendly. They are durable and ensure a timeless appeal. Wood with natural imperfections and knots are gaining popularity.

3. Eco-Friendly Kitchen Appliances

The trend towards sustainability extends to kitchen appliances, with energy-efficient (Energy Star rated) models and smart technology becoming more prevalent. Appliances crafted from recycled materials help conserve energy and water, promoting a healthier planet. Kitchen islands are also becoming more multi-functional by combining built-in sinks, cooktops, power outlets, and casual dining areas.

4. Kitchen Paint Colors 2025

Warm and earthy tones are at the forefront of kitchen paint trends. Colors like olive green, terracotta, and muted browns create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. These hues pair well with natural materials and contribute to a harmonious kitchen environment. Bold jewel tones are also a great choice, to personalize your space and give a touch of sophistication or drama to your space. Soft pastels like mint green, blush pink, and soft lavender are coming back by bringing a calming, fresh and welcoming atmosphere. Lastly, black accents are a modern, chic choice for kitchens in 2025. Rather it’s cabinetry, hardware or light fixtures, black always brings a touch of elegance and sophistication.  Black also pairs well with the majority of colors, that creates a bold contrast that enhances the overall kitchen design. Stick with matte rather than glossy for a timeless look. 

5. Trending Kitchen Finishes & Decor

Combining different textures and finishes adds depth and interest to kitchen spaces. Pairing brick walls with sleek, natural stone countertops can create a fun, industrial, modern feel. Full length back splashes and large-format flooring tiles can really help make your kitchen appear larger.  Matte finishes, mixed metals, and handcrafted details are becoming more popular, allowing for personalized and unique kitchen designs. Concealed kitchens are trending pretty hard. With built-in appliances, flush cabinets and appliance garages to keep things neatly hidden, it results in a sleek, minimalist look that gives a sleek, organized look.

6. Smart kitchens

As seen on a lot of the reno television shows, appliances with smart features are really gaining momentum in 2025. They are changing how we cook, clean, and manage our homes. From digital grocery lists, to voice controlled devices, smart appliances are really streamlining daily tasks and enhancing the overall cooking experience.

These 2025 trends reflect a movement towards creating spaces that are not only functional, but also stylish, sustainable, and reflective of personal taste. 

OUT

Gray has slightly fallen out of favor, as people want their space to feel more like home, rather than a cold, sterile, parking garage.  White also is falling into this category, where it is a little too safe, and frankly, boring. Unfortunately, open shelving seems to be fading out as a trend as well. Being completely organized with well stacked plates and matching glasses, isn’t realistic for most families. Piggy-backing off of open shelving, double height islands or countertops are very dated.  Think about taking down the higher level and using 1 sleek, seamless 1-level look. Sliding barn doors are heading out, unless you have a country style house. Choose a pocket door or a hidden hardware barn door for a more sleek look. Having an accent wall is out and definitely dated. Look more towards “color-drenching” with all 4 walls the same color.

Using artificial materials is out as well. Although they seem to be more cost effective, most people want to project a more natural and organic look in their spaces. Shy away from glass tabletops, they are more dated, dysfunctional and hard to keep clean. Stick with a solid wood table, for a more classic, up-to-date look.  Overall, people want to feel like they can come home and take their pants off and plop on the couch. The ultra modern, crisp white, completely open floorplans tend to give off a museum vibe and people are shying away to make room for a more cozy, lived-in vibe. 

Check out Judy's Carpet Cleaning for before/after cleaning!

by Beans

Eat Fresh, Buy Local-Farmers' Markets

🌿🍎 Support Local, Eat Fresh! 🍞🥕

Head out to your Local Farmer’s Market for a community gathering filled with fresh produce, handmade goods, and delicious treats!  Whether you're looking for farm-fresh veggies, artisan breads, or unique crafts, our market has something for everyone.

Come meet your local farmers, shop small, and enjoy the best flavors of the season! See you there! (Click on Name for website, list is ongoing and will be updated often)

#ShopLocal #FarmersMarket #FreshAndLocal

by Beans

Spring Has Sprung! Your Guide to Cleanup

Spring cleaning is the perfect time to refresh both your home and yard. Inside, it's all about de-cluttering, deep cleaning, and organizing spaces that have accumulated dust and clutter over the winter months. Outside, it's a chance to tidy up the garden, trim overgrown plants, and prepare your yard for the warmer months ahead. It's a great way to start fresh and enjoy a cleaner, more inviting space! Let’s brush up on Madison’s disposal resources and yard waste collection which may help you on your spring cleaning journey.

DROP-OFF SITES

• West:  402 South Point Rd. (year-round)
• East: 4602 Sycamore Ave.  (year-round)
• Central: 121 E. Olin Ave. (opens Monday, April 12)

WINTER HOURS

• Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 7:30AM - 2:30PM

EXPANDED HOURS

East and West Drop-off Sites (April 12 - December 4)

• Monday 7:30AM - 2:30PM
• Tuesday 7:30AM - 7PM
• Wednesday - closed
• Thursday 7:30AM - 7PM
• Friday 7:30AM - 2:30PM
• Saturday 9AM - 4PM
• Sunday - closed

Central Drop-off Site (April 12 - November 30)

• Monday 3PM - 7PM
• Tuesday 3PM - 7PM
• Wednesday - closed
• Thursday 3PM - 7PM
• Friday - closed
• Saturday 9AM - 4PM
• Sunday 9AM - 4PM

These items must be brought to a drop-off site to be recycled:

• computers
• laptops
• monitors
• printers
• televisions
• VCRs

Some items will require a recycling fee; check costs here.

For the SERIOUS SPRING CLEAN-UPS, rent a dumpster from PDL Waste Solutions

WORK ORDERS

If you can’t bring your large items to a drop-off site, you must fill out a large item work order, which will not require any recycling fees. Check out the City’s Recyclopedia for more information.

YARD WASTE COLLECTION

Yard waste collection begins the week of April 19. Yard waste is all the leaves, dead plants, and similar debris you rake or pull from your lawns or gardens.
In the spring, the Streets Division provides two curbside collection opportunities for yard waste. You will have one chance in April and another in early May.
The dates when your neighborhood should set out yard waste for pickup can be found at www.cityofmadison.com/YardWaste. Just enter your address into the form and you’ll see both the dates when you should get the yard waste out to the curb this spring.

Let the cleanup begin!

Check out Judy's Carpet Cleaning for spring cleaning!

by Beans

Mother's Day: Origins and Ideas

Mother's Day is a cherished occasion dedicated to celebrating amazing moms each year. Discover its history and get inspired with ideas for the perfect celebration!

The origin of Mother’s Day has been associated with Miss Anna M. Jarvis. Jarvis (b. May 1, 1864 – Nov. 24, 1948), an especially devoted daughter who was concerned about the neglect shown to mothers by grown children. After her own mother’s death in 1905, Jarvis grieved. The following year, she asked friends to come to her church in Grafton, West Virginia, on the first Sunday in May to commemorate the anniversary of her mother’s death. In 1907, Jarvis promoted a Mother’s Day service at the church, and she donated carnations (her mother’s favorite flower) to every mother in the congregation — though May 10, 1908 is recognized as the first official Mother’s Day celebration.
Anna Jarvis worked hard to promote the holiday, writing letters to churches, politicians, and city leaders. She had enlisted the help of John Wanamaker (the pioneer of marketing and advertising) and Henry J. Heinz (of Heinz Ketchup fame) to help her start a movement, and it worked.
Jarvis’ efforts resulted in a resolution ultimately being passed in Congress, dedicating the second Sunday in May as Mother’s Day. By 1911, all of the states in the union had Mother’s Day proclamations. And she was very clear that the holiday was to be called “Mother’s” Day (singular) —”to honor the best mother who ever lived—yours.”
In 1915, President Woodrow Wilson declared Mother’s Day an annual national observance.
Unfortunately, as time went on, Anna M. Jarvis was disappointed by how the Mother’s Day holiday had gotten too commercial. So much so that by 1920, she started convincing people to stop buying flowers and other gifts and even going head-to-head with the floral industry and other industries who helped her initially fight for the holiday.
Her ideal gift, she thought, was to write a heartfelt letter. “Any mother would rather have a line of the worst scribble from her son or daughter than any fancy greeting card,” she said. She came to loathe the holiday until her dying day in 1948, but her holiday lives on. (Farmers Almanac).

• Give Mom a chance to unwind and de-stress on her special day. This could include a spa day package, a soft-comfy bathrobe and slippers set, a scented candle gift basket, or a subscription to a meditation app.
• Upgrade Mom's tech with a new smart device, noise-canceling headphones, a fitness tracker, or a subscription to a streaming service.
• Show Mom how much you care with a thoughtful gift that's uniquely hers. Consider a custom-made photo album, a personalized mug with a heartfelt message, a piece of jewelry engraved with her initials, or a framed artwork featuring her favorite quote.
• If Mom enjoys spending time outdoors and enhancing her living space, consider a gift like a set of gardening tools, a beautiful planter with flowers, a decorative wind chime, or a stylish throw blanket.

Experiences and getaways: Create lasting memories with a shared experience like a weekend getaway, tickets to a concert or show, a cooking class, or a wine tasting.

• Plan a family outing. 
• Bake some of Mom's favorite treats. 
• Make a coupon book for Mom.
• Gift mom with a beauty hamper.
• Make a family scrapbook.
• Binge-watch a favorite TV show together.
• Give Mom a gift card to her favorite store.
• Plan a scavenger hunt.

You can write a heartfelt note with some favorite memories or qualities and a simple “thank you” would mean so much. Quality Time Together: Spend a day with your mom doing activities she loves, whether it's going for a walk, cooking a meal together, or simply chatting over a cup of tea or coffee.
Scribe Memorable Moments
Remember that time? Make sure they do, too. Write your favorite memories with your recipient on slips of paper and place them in a pretty jar with a label like "Jar of Awesome." Include some blank slips so they can continue the tradition with new memories as you make them.
Write "Just in Case" Letters
Compose a series of heartfelt letters to suit different occasions, and label them "Read this when you're feeling blue" or "Read this when you have something to celebrate." This ensures you send your loved one just the right message at just the right moment.
Help Them Make Their Home Smell Delicious
Give them the ingredients for a "simmer pot" with vanilla, lemon, rosemary, and orange zest to help them give their home a fragrant makeover. 
Typically, I like to choose at least one ingredient from each of the following categories: fruit, fresh herbs, whole spices, and baking extracts.
A simmer pot is a wonderful, natural way to make your kitchen smell fresh. If you’ve not made one before, a simmer pot is essentially stovetop potpourri that’s a naturally aromatic way to make your whole house smell amazing. Basically, it’s a large pot of water set to a low simmer with fresh ingredients like sliced citrus fruits, berries, herbs and whole spices. While most people often think of a simmer pot for fall or during the holidays, there’s truly a simmer pot for every season! And it’s a great way to get rid of “kitchen smells” if you’ve cooking something with a lingering fragrance like salmon or Brussel sprouts. Get creative!

What Can I Put In My Simmer Pot?
A good smelling simmer pot has at least three ingredients, but you can add as many things as you like! Think of it a bit like cooking when it comes to pairing complimentary scents. For instance, lemon and rosemary, or vanilla and lavender. You can have quite a bit of fun creating your own simmer pot blends. Typically, I like to choose at least one ingredient from each of the following categories: fruit, fresh herbs, whole spices, and baking extracts. Here is a list of ingredient ideas to get you started and feel free to use whatever you already have in your kitchen! We also have some recipes for you below.
RECIPE
Place 2 cups water in a 1-quart pot, boil, then add:

• 1 lemon, cut into thin slices
• 3 sprigs rosemary
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon orange zest

Reduce to a simmer and add more water to the pot as needed.
FRUIT
When it comes to fruit, stick with what is in season and pick a complimentary spice to go along with it. Citrus is great for a clean scent, while apples and cranberries can convey a coziness. As for the amount of fruit to use, I recommend using one whole fruit, cut in slices. Such as one sliced apple, or one sliced orange. For lemon and lime, you could add two or three of these sliced citrus fruits to your simmer pot. And in the case of berries, I recommend a half cup.

• oranges
• limes
• grapefruit
• lemons
• apples
• cranberries
• blackberries
• strawberries
• blueberries
• fresh or dried coconut

SPICES
Whole spices are best for a simmer pot as they hold up well to boiling. Pick a spice to compliment your fruit choice, or simply one you enjoy the scent of. Cinnamon is warm and cozy, ginger smells clean, and anise and clove give off a subtle licorice scent. 

• Whole Peppercorns
• Cinnamon Sticks
• Whole Cloves
• Star Anise
• Cardamom
• Bay Leaves
• Celery Seed
• Juniper Berries
• Ginger
• Dried Roses (available as a tea)

XTRACTS + OILS
When it comes to adding extracts or essential oils, if it is edible, you can add it to your simmer pot. You can use baking extracts or food safe essential oils. Start by adding one tablespoon of your choice of extract to your simmer pot. After it simmers for a little while, add an additional teaspoon if you’d like for the scent to be stronger.

• vanilla extract
• almond extract
• hazelnut extract
• peppermint extract
• maple extract
• lavender oil
• eucalyptus oil
• lemon extract or oil
• rosewater or rose extract

STOVETOP
Add the fruit, herbs, and spices to a large pot that is at least four quarts in size. Next, pour water into the pot and cover the ingredients with enough water that they float. Turn the stovetop heat to low and simmer for two hours. You can simmer for longer too, just check on the water and add more water each hour.
FRESH HERBS
Using fresh herbs in your seasonal simmer pot will leave a wonderfully aromatic scent in your home. Woodsy herbs, such as rosemary and oregano, hold up well to simmering. You can also use softer herbs like mint or parsley, but they wont last as long while simmering. I like to pick fresh rosemary or oregano from our yard, but in a pinch you can use dried herbs too. When deciding the amount, for fresh herbs I recommend 2-3 sprigs. And for dried herbs use a tablespoon.

• • Rosemary
  • Thyme
  • Oregano
  • Lavender
  • Sage
  • Mint
  • Parsley
  • Lemongrass

by Beans

Top Local Spots for Kid's Birthdays

Planning a Birthday Bash? Check Out These Awesome Local Party Spots!

Looking for the perfect place to celebrate your little one's special day? We've rounded up some of the best local birthday party venues that guarantee fun, excitement, and zero stress for parents! Check out indoor/outdoor venues, arts & crafts, waterparks, petting zoos and arcade games (list will be frequently updated)!

No matter what your child loves, there’s a perfect party spot waiting! Have a favorite venue? Email Beans@midwestfamilymadison.com to get it on the list!

by Beans