Build Hours of Entertainment WITH THE PERFECT BLANKET FORT
A fter months spent stuck at home, it’s no surprise your kids are going stir-crazy. Old toys get stale, new toys are expensive, and there’s only so much backyard-adventuring they can do as colder weather moves in. So, how can you keep your kids freshly entertained? Build an excellent blanket fort! Choose the space wisely. A smart fort-building space isn’t always what’s easy or predictable. Living rooms and bedrooms are go-to spots, but take a look around your different rooms and consider how they might provide better building opportunities. For example, your dining room table can provide the support you need to build a massive fort. The long hallway leading to the bedrooms means the fort can have tunnels attached to it. You can even build in the attic, where the fort might not have to be temporary. Go for a space that’s fun and unique, even if it means it’s in your way for just a little while. Build it right. A fort ceiling needs to stay above your kids’ heads where it belongs. They don’t need standing room, but they do need something
they can move through freely. Always remember to counterbalance by using lighter sheets on top and heavier blankets on the bottom to weigh everything down. If you add a blanket to one
side, add a similar blanket to the opposite side. Also attach blankets to stationary items like doorknobs or furniture legs. If you’re stumped, string up a line of rope to serve as the stable center of your fort. Make it comfortable.
If you take the time to construct a fort that has multiple purposes, your kids are less likely to get bored with it. When they’re all played out, encourage some quiet time in the fort with tablets and laptops for
cordless entertainment. String up lights on the ceiling of the fort to provide hands-free light for reading. When it comes to comfort, spare no expense. Couch cushions, pillows, blankets, and sleeping bags are all fair game. You may even get an impromptu nap out of your kids if you do it right.
Forts can be magical places for imagination and hours of entertainment. All it takes is a little creativity and some dedication!
Take a Break!
SINFULLY SWEET BUTTERNUT SQUASH
Inspired by WellPlated.com
This butternut squash, oven-roasted and caramelized to perfection, could almost pass for dessert. You’d never guess it’s a dish loaded with vitamins and antioxidants!
INGREDIENTS
• 1 large butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cut into 1-inch cubes • 1 1/2 tbsp olive oil • 1 1/2 tbsp maple syrup
• 1 3/4 tsp kosher salt • 3/4 tsp cinnamon • 1/2 tsp black pepper • 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
DIRECTIONS
1. Preheat oven to 400 F, placing the two oven racks at the top and bottom of the oven. Then grease two baking sheets. 2. In a large bowl, combine squash cubes, olive oil, maple syrup, salt, and spices. Toss to coat, then spread mixture in a single layer over the baking sheets. 3. Place both pans in the oven and bake 15 minutes. Turn the cubes with a spatula and return them to the oven, swapping them to different racks. Continue baking 10–15 minutes until tender. 4. Sprinkle with rosemary and serve!
SOLUTION ON PAGE 4
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