Month: April 2021

Crafting has taken on newfound popularity in recent years, and spring is the perfect time to start learning crafts. Making things with your hands, crafting and DIY-ing is not only fun, it has real health benefits. Besides reducing stress and helping us relax, crafting is a great way to spend time with friends and build community. So gather your friends or family and put your phone away for a while. These projects will engage your creative side and help you create gifts for those you love or homemade items for your own decor. 

Spring Crafts to Gift and Keep 

If you haven’t thought about crafts in a while, welcome back! The world of creatively making keepsakes, gifts and décor has come a long way from days of macramé plant hangers. As mentioned above, making crafts is beneficial to your mental health. But it can also improve mental agility, much the same way crossword puzzles and reading helps cognitive health. These spring crafts for adults will keep you busy in a different and dynamic way. 

• DIY Bird Feeder – This is the perfect weekend project to do this spring. With materials you likely already have around the house, you can have it hanging on your deck by this afternoon. 
• Painted Pots – These lovely additions to your container garden will be unique to your own designs. Paint to match your porch decor or even your array of annuals or herbs for the season. These make a beautiful and inexpensive gift as well.
• Spring Wreaths – Nothing says “welcome” like a seasonal wreath on your front door. From seed packets to floral arrangements and butterflies, the possibilities are endless when it comes to door decor. 
• Floral Table Runner – This is so simple to create and easy to change up! The glass votive holders are perfect for ranunculus but as the spring comes into full bloom, mix things up. You can experiment with flowers for cutting and keep bright colors on your table all summer long.

Crafts for Kids

The best kind of spring crafts for kids are the ones that mom and dad don’t have to spend hours prepping or cleaning up. Try out some low stress, low mess projects—great for kids of all ages. Next time you find yourself with a rainy day and everyone reaches for screens, clear off the kitchen table instead. You and your family will love these crafts. 

• Acorn Doll People – Once the adult uses the hot glue gun, kids have a ball making the faces and accessories for these little guys. 
• Outdoor Crafts for Kids – What better way to get in-tune with nature but doing crafts that involve things found in nature? These crafts use materials and resources found right under your nose: at the park, along the seashore, or in our own backyard.
• Gratitude Stones – With very few simple materials, you and your child can paint these symbolic stones of thanks. The glossy hearts are physical reminders of all we have to be thankful for, and the ideas for using them in your life are endless. 
• Art from Leaf and Flower Pigments – This craft combines art and science: a surefire way to engage your kids this spring. Kids will love the act of pounding colors through the fabric with a mallet. The artwork that results will be gift-worthy! 
• Friendship bracelets – If you have fond memories of making these woven bracelets when you were a kid, it’s time to pass that tradition along. Choose from a variety of patterns and materials to create modern, stackable pieces. 

Upcoming Special Occasions

Sometimes it’s fun to try out a new spring craft inspired by a holiday or occasion. Here are some links to upcoming holidays and some fantastic craft ideas to go with each one. 

• May Day
• Cinco de Mayo
• Mother’s Day and Gifts for Grandma 
• Father’s Day and Gifts for Grandpa 
• Memorial Day or Flag Day 

The Power of Creativity

Incorporating spring crafts into your life will bring joy and countless benefits. And it’s not a huge investment to try something new—you probably have some materials around the house to get you started! If you don’t, check out a local shop like F&S Fabric Discount for inspiration. Happy Crafting!

If there’s one thing we can rely on, it’s the love and companionship of dogs. Since the start of the pandemic last year, canine adoptions have gone through the roof. With the rise in people staying at home, it’s no wonder. But now that warmer temps are in full swing, it’s time to get out of the house with your four-legged companion. Going on dog-friendly hikes in New Jersey is a sure way to get exercise for both of you and have a great time doing it. 

Jersey City Parks and Runs 

We’re lucky to have such great parks and hikes right around Jersey City. In fact, Jersey City is known for being one of the most dog-friendly cities for families. Maybe you’re working up to day trips and hikes, or you want to get out but stay close to home. Check out these great spots to stretch your legs and meet up for some doggy social-distancing. 

• Liberty State Park – It’s hard to mention dog-friendly without our own beloved Liberty State Park. If you haven’t been there yet this spring, get out 
• Lincoln Park Dog Run – Known for being well maintained, this park has its own separate area for small dogs who might be intimidated by the bigger set. 
• Sgt. Anthony Dog Run – This clean park has the advantage of being open 24 hours a day for people who might need to walk their pups at different times. 
• Hamilton Park – Dogs love the designated “off leash” areas while dog moms and dads socialize. 

Prepare to Hit the Trails

Before you and your dog embark on a hiking adventure, take some time to do your homework first. If you’ve never hiked with your pup before, check in with your vet to make sure they’re healthy and good to go. You’ll want to start off slow and short in order to build up stamina. And remember, your dog can’t speak up like we can when we’re getting tired or something hurts. Finally, check out this list of what to bring on a hike with your best furry friend. 

Dog-Friendly Hikes Near Jersey City

The following hiking areas are all under an hour’s drive from Jersey City. They’re the perfect distance away if you have a half day or want to get out and get back. Before you gas up and pack your snacks, you’ll want to brush up on your dog car safety. Making sure your best furry friends are secured well is the responsible thing to do and gives you peace of mind. 

• Mills Reservation – The loop trails at Mills total six miles and you can choose to hike trails ranging from very short to 1.5 miles. 157 acres of beauty contains trails that lead to a cliff overlooking New York City.  
• Watchung Reservation – If you and your pooch are into meeting horses and aren’t afraid of a little mud, Watchung is for you. Hike the 6-mile History Trail, or enjoy a self-guided Geology Trail.  
• Morristown National Historic Park – Hike over 27 miles of trails featuring historic sites from when George Washington and the Continental Army camped there. You’ll even see the remains of soldier huts built to house Washinton’s troops along the 2.25-mile Yellow Trail. 

Day Trips to Dog-Friendly Hikes

The next list will bring you from about 1-2 hours away from your home base for some fantastic dog-friendly hiking in New Jersey. If your dog is comfortable with car rides and you’re ready to do some more exploring this spring, try out these trails. 

• Ramapo Mountain State Forest – Choose from a variety of several hiking trails that vary in difficulty. Your rewards include a great workout and views of the NYC skyline. Keep your eye out for the gorgeous lake and a castle. 
• Kittatinny Valley State Park – If you’re the adventurous type, you’ll be in heaven in this rocky terrain. But don’t worry—there’s also less challenging trails to choose from. Keep your eyes out for old railroad tracks, limestone outcroppings and glacial lakes! 
• Ken Lockwood Gorge Wildlife Management Area – Some of the trails are for those who want a challenging trail or a longer route. The beautiful scenery along eight miles of trails can’t be beat. 
• Mount Tammany – This popular trail is a must for dog-hikers! You’ll enjoy sweeping views of the Delaware River Gap and moderately challenging trails. The trailhead is easily accessible off Interstate 80. 
• Mountain Lakes Nature Preserve – Many short and inviting trails to choose from here in Princeton. This preserve features open fields, lush forests and rocky streams. Great for all skill levels and all dog types! 
• Schooley’s Mountain Loop Trail – If “waterfall” is on your list of things to see, you’ll check it off here near Long Valley. Get a great hiking workout with Fido and stop for some bird watching while you’re at it. Schooley’s is also a great place to hike with kids, so make it a family outing this spring. 

Get Out and Enjoy!

There’s no remedy for what ails us like the companionship of a dog, fresh air and exercise. Prepare for your outings, do your research and explore the dog-friendly areas to hike near Jersey City this month. Your dog will thank you in more ways than one.