Find yourself in a festive wonderland with our holiday virtual backgrounds to add a touch of seasonal cheer to your video conferencing!

Research suggests that a consistent gratitude practice can have a positive impact on both our mental and physical health, as well as our interpersonal and romantic relationships. It doesn't have to be time-consuming. A small moment of daily gratitude is all you need.

Here are some easy prompts.

List three simple things that brought you joy today.

Reflect on a part of nature you appreciated today, like a beautiful sunrise.

What did you learn today, and why are you grateful for this lesson?

Write a thank you to someone who did something kind for you (you don't even have to send it). 

Elevate your Holiday Season with a sophisticated and decadent Tiramisu Espresso Martini. This one is sure to delight!

2 oz. tequila or vodka (your choice!)

1.25 oz of espresso

0.75 oz of coffee liqueur

2-3 dashes of chocolate bitters

Tiramisu whip (recipe below)

1. In a chilled bowl with an electric mixer or whisk, combine 1 tbsp. of mascarpone cheese, 1.5 tbsp. of heavy cream, and 1 tbsp. of powdered sugar.

2. Whip together until you get a dense consistency.

3. Gently spoon the whip on top of each drink, dust with cocoa powder, and enjoy!

Elevate your holiday baking with the warmth of festive spices in these Cranberry Oatmeal Cookies. Bursting with the tartness of cranberries and the earthy notes of oats, the delightful blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and orange zest adds an extra layer of flavor. These cookies taste best with a decadent white chocolate drizzle, a festive treat for the most festive season.

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.

2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the oats, flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and orange zest. Gradually add this spiced dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until well combined.

4. Gently fold in the dried cranberries and white chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the dough.

5. Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

6. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

White Chocolate Drizzle
1. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the white chocolate chips and vegetable oil in 20-second intervals, stirring after each interval until smooth.

2. Drizzle the melted white chocolate over the cooled cookies using a fork or a piping bag.

3. Let the white chocolate set before serving, and relish in the delightful combination of holiday spices in these Cranberry Oatmeal Holiday Cookies!

Get ready to Party Like It's 1984! This Holiday Party Playlist takes inspiration from our firm's founding year and these jams are sure to get your Holiday Spirit in shape. Enjoy!

Embrace the festive spirit with this aromatic mulled wine recipe that marries a rich red blend with warm spices, perfect for cozy gatherings.

3L red wine (Syrah, Merlot, or blend)

1 bottle of bourbon (optional)

24 oz organic apple cider

5-8 oz honey

Sliced fruit (blood oranges, pomegranate, be creative!)

 Mulling spices and porous mulling bag

1. Combine your wine, liquor, and cider into a large stock pot or slow cooker. Bring to a simmer (never boil) and return to low heat. If you are covering your pot, be sure to allow steam to escape.

2. Place in your mulling spices and sliced fruit. Allow these to steep for at least four hours and up to eight hours.

3. Stir occasionally as your mulled wine steeps.

4. Perform a taste test. From here, add in the honey to taste.

5. Garnish with a cinnamon stick and slice of blood orange. Enjoy!

As the year winds down, join us in revisiting one of our most captivating and insightful blogs that truly resonated with our readers.

We hope you've kept your gratitude practice going. Here are some more prompts for inspiration.

Write down ways you put your best foot forward. Expound on how offering your best efforts makes you feel. Do you feel you are extending yourself too far, just right, or is there an opportunity to do more?

Write down the names and admirable attributes of those that recharge you. List the names of those who you see need recharging.

What realization(s) or event(s) this year have shaped who you are today? As the hero/heroine of your story, write how this moment is pivotal to your character’s future.

In what ways can you enjoy being the youngest you’ll ever be? What wisdom have the past years taught you?

Choosing eco-friendly gifts this Holiday Season is a mindful choice that not only sparks joy but contributes to a healthier planet for generations to come. Reference this guide, developed by Good Housekeeping, to lead the way.

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Sauté the onions in a little oil for roughly 5 minutes with a little cayenne pepper (and cumin or allspice if you like). While the onions are going, boil the macaroni al dente so it’s still a little tough.

3. After the onions cook, put them aside. In a large pan, melt the butter into the oil. Once the butter is melted, add the flour and let cook a minute or two. Slowly add the milk and then allow to thicken a bit.

4. Now you can start adding the macaroni and cheese alternatively, a handful at a time, while stirring the mixture. Halfway through, add roughly a ¼ tablespoon nutmeg and ½ tablespoon of cayenne, plus some salt to taste. Make sure to save some cheese for the top!

 5. Once all the macaroni and cheese is in, turn off the heat and transfer to a greased casserole dish or baking pan and top with the remaining cheese. Then melt some butter in a frying pan and add the breadcrumbs to allow them to brown before sprinkling over the top of your mac n’cheese.

6. Once ready, place the casserole dish in the oven and let cook 15-20 minutes. Serve warm.

From icy slopes and shimmery reflections to a cozy woodland sanctuary…these modern architectural wonders give us the #HolidayFeels.

With the holiday season upon us, it's time to think about bringing some festive cheer into our homes. In 2023, holiday home decor trends blend tradition with modernity, warmth with elegance, and personalization with universal charm.

Whether you're drawn to the simplicity and calm of minimalist designs, the nostalgia of vintage-inspired decorations, or the joy of DIY projects, there's something for everyone.

A popular trend is the return to traditional holiday colors and themes, like classic red and green, cozy plaids, and rustic accents.

Using natural materials such as wood, pine cones, and greenery is always in style. From garlands to wreaths, these materials create a warm and inviting atmosphere.

If you prefer a more minimalist approach, consider using neutral colors like whites, grays, and tans. This color scheme can create a calming and serene atmosphere perfect for the holiday season.

Incorporating vintage ornaments, which often feature bright colors and fun designs, can add nostalgia and charm. These can be found at antique stores, thrift shops, or even as new ornaments with a vintage flair from big retailers.

Handmade ornaments and custom wreaths are great DIY projects for adding a personal touch to your holiday décor. You can create ornaments and wreaths using a variety of materials to match your personal style.

Add some homemade charm to your holiday décor. All you need is three ingredients.

4 cups all-purpose flour

1 cup table salt

1.5 cups warm water

Rolling pin

Cookie cutters (various shapes)

Acrylic paints

Paintbrushes

Glitter, sequins, and other embellishments

Ribbon or twine for hanging

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.

Gradually add warm water to the mixture, stirring continuously.

Knead the dough on a floured surface until it becomes smooth and pliable.

Use cookie cutters to cut out various holiday shapes from the rolled-out dough. Transfer the cut-out shapes onto a parchment paper-lined baking sheet. Pro tip: feet, hand, and paw prints make great ornaments!

Use a drinking straw or skewer to create a small hole near the top of each ornament for hanging.

1 wheel of brie

1 jar of honey, fig, or orange jam

Pecans, dates, and hazelnuts (your preference)

Crackers or baguette (your preference)

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.

2. Place a wheel of brie into a small cast-iron skillet or another oven-safe dish.

3. Use a knife or the back of a spoon to coat the brie with honey, fig, or orange jam.

4. Add some along the sides of the dish as well. 

5. Mix more jam or honey with your prepared toppings (pecans, dates, hazelnuts) of choice, then pile the toppings onto the brie wheel.

6. Bake the cheese in the oven for about 10 minutes.

7. Let the baked brie sit for 10 minutes before indulging.

Please join IA in giving to the World Central Kitchen, a non-profit organization dedicated to being first to the frontlines, providing meals in response to humanitarian, climate, and community crises.

They are a team of food first responders, mobilizing with the urgency of how to get meals to the people who need them most. A nourishing meal in a time of crisis is so much more than a plate of food—it's hope, it's dignity, and it's a sign that someone cares.

Add some homemade charm to your holiday décor. All you need is three ingredients.

This wheat-free chocolate cake with the earthy flavor of chestnuts is surprisingly light. The recipe is a slight adaptation from one in Alice Medrich’s baking book "Flavor Flours." The cake may be baked a day or two in advance of serving. — David Tanis. New York Times Cooking

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Melt chocolate and butter in a bowl set over boiling water until chocolate is nearly completely melted, then remove from heat and whisk mixture until smooth.

2. In a mixing bowl, whisk egg yolks with half the sugar (¼ cup/50 grams) and the salt until pale and thick. Stir in the warm chocolate and set aside.

3. Put egg whites in a clean bowl with cream of tartar and beat until fluffy, then add remaining ¼ cup/50 grams sugar and beat until whites are stiff but not dry.

4. Stir chestnut flour and chopped chestnuts into the chocolate batter, then fold in ¼ of the whites to lighten mixture. Fold in remaining whites and scrape batter into an unbuttered 8-inch springform pan, smoothing top if necessary.

5. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center of the cake comes out almost clean. Cool on a rack. It may sink and crack a bit on top — this is fine. Run a knife around the edge of cake to free sides and remove form. Transfer to a serving platter (cake may be stored, covered, at room temperature for up to 3 days).

6. To serve, whip cream with 2 tablespoons sugar to a very soft consistency. Spoon over top of cake and quickly spread with a spatula. Sprinkle with chocolate curls or cocoa powder.

The festive season embodies joy, gratitude, and generosity, warming our hearts with its celebrations. Beyond personal joy, it offers a chance to extend that warmth to those facing challenges. Hosting a holiday food drive is a great way to get involved in your community. Contact your local food bank to understand their donation requirements and highest needs. Gather your family, friends, neighbors, colleagues, and others to donate and increase your impact.

1. Visit the famous Rockefeller Center Christmas tree.

2. Stroll past 5th Avenue’s holiday window displays.

3. Watch the Rockettes at Radio City Music Hall.

4. See the epic Dyker Heights Christmas Lights.

5. Warm up with Ralph’s Coffee and collect their cute holiday Polo Bear cups.

6. Ice skate and shop in Bryant Park’s Winter Village.

7. View the lights and decorations of Hudson Yards’ mega mall.

8. Sip hot chocolate at Sant Ambroeus.

9. Eat and drink at Rolf’s, Manhattan’s most-decorated restaurant.

10. Visit New York Botanical Garden’s holiday train show.

11. Tour Brooklyn Botanical Garden’s immersive illuminated trail.

12. Listen to holiday classics at The New York Philharmonic.

13. Channel your inner Kevin McAlister at the Plaza.

Entering holiday Zen mode. Put this playlist on when relaxing with family and friends, entertaining guests, or needing a calm vibe around the house. It’s also perfect for a long car or train ride to a holiday getaway, or just a walk around the neighborhood. We hope it encourages some moments of calm and serenity during a very busy season.

Enjoy your favorite holiday movies in a whole new way with our holiday movie-themed bingo game, adding excitement and laughter to your cozy film nights!

Treat your furry friends to a tail-wagging delight with these homemade peanut butter dog treats. Packed with canine-friendly ingredients and the irresistible flavor of peanut butter, these treats are a festive way to share the holiday joy with your four-legged companions.

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a large bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, rolled oats, dry milk, and cornmeal.

3. In a separate microwave-safe bowl, soften the peanut butter in the microwave for about 20 seconds. Add the vegetable oil, eggs, and water to the peanut butter, stirring until well combined.

4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms. If the dough is too dry, add a little more water, one tablespoon at a time.

5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use holiday cookie cutters to create festive shapes.

6. Place the shaped treats on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.

7. Allow the treats to cool completely on a wire rack before decorating.

Optional Dog-Friendly Decorations
1. For a festive touch, sprinkle carrot shavings on top of the treats before baking.

2. Melt dog-friendly yogurt chips and drizzle over the cooled treats for a delightful decoration.

These Peanut Butter Holiday Dog Treats are sure to make your furry friends' tails wag with joy. Remember to store them in an airtight container and share the love with your pets this holiday season!

1. Take in the lights on Oxford Street or the historic Carnaby Street.

2. See the 60 foot tree at Covent Garden Christmas market.

3. Window shop the Selfridges window displays at Radio City Music Hall.

4. Bring out your ice skates at Queen's House.

5. Stay cozy in an igloo with amazing views of London at Willows On The Roof.

6. Visit Christmas at Kenwood for a magnificent light display.

7. Grab a bite at Churchill Arms amongst 80 Christmas trees.

8. Get festive with a fancy cocktail at Miracle at Henrietta.

10. Partake in the classic tradition of afternoon tea at the Michelin starred St. James’s Hotel and Club.

When kids and young adults volunteer, they have an outlet to help others in need and are reminded that anyone can make a difference. Here are a few ways to get the entire family in the giving spirit this holiday season.

Take a “treasure hunting” trip through the house to discover items to donate. Young children can lead the way by going through their things and selecting toys, clothing, books, and other items they wish to give to someone else. It’s a way to make giving back more personal and meaningful.

Take the family on a special grocery shopping trip. Buying groceries is much more fun when you know the food will help someone in need. Bring the kids (and anyone else who wants to come), and make this shopping trip an event. Donate your purchases to a community food shelf or food distribution group. Many of these organizations list most-needed items online, which can give you a head start on your shopping list.

You could also create family food baskets to donate. Everyone could contribute a favorite food (non-perishable, of course) and even add in something special, like hand soap, dish towels or candles.

Start a family holiday donation jar. Your kids can contribute all or part of an allowance, or could earn money to add to the jar by doing chores around the house. Parents can match the total donations they make. The family would then get together to decide how the money will be donated.

If you’re making a monetary donation, do some advance research to ensure your dollars go as far as possible.

As the year winds down, join us in revisiting one of our most captivating and insightful blogs that truly resonated with our readers.

Best-ever homemade sausage rolls

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Line 2 large baking trays with baking paper. Thaw puff pastry. Meanwhile, combine milk and egg in a small jug. Whisk well.

3. Combine veal mince, sausage mince, onion, carrot, garlic, parsley and sauces in a large bowl. Season with salt and pepper. Divide mixture into 8.

4. Lay a sheet of pastry on a flat surface. Cut sheet in half horizontally. Spoon 1/8 of the mince mixture down along the long side of one pastry half, shaping mince into a long sausage shape. Brush opposite long edge with a little egg mixture.

5. Roll up pastry to enclose filling, finishing seam side down. Brush top of log with egg mixture. Cut into 6 short pieces. Place pieces, seam side down on prepared tray, 2cm apart. Repeat with remaining mince mixture, pastry and eggwash.

6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden and cooked through.

Get into the holiday spirit with our seasonal holiday word search puzzle, perfect for some festive brain-teasing fun!

New Year, New You! Prepare for the New Year with an vibrant blend of timeless classics and upbeat anthems as we look toward a joyous year ahead.

If you don't drink or are just getting tired of all the holiday drinking, enjoy this unique mocktail guilt and headache free.

2 oz. of White Verjus

2 oz of Soda Water

2 oz of Tonic Water

1 Lemon Twist for garnish

... and it's worth celebrating, stay tuned!