Bask in the beauty of tulips

Kick off your adventure at the delightful Windmill Island Gardens, the perfect spot to soak in Holland’s dazzling tulip displays. While you’re there, step inside the historic working Zwaan windmill—the very last one permitted to make the journey from the Netherlands.

Life

Derby Season Is Here! Your Guide to Louisville’s Best Attractions

Experience the charm of the “Derby City!” Named after Louis XVI of France, this Kentucky locale is bustling this time of year, leading up to the world-famous Kentucky Derby on May 2, 2026. But the thrilling horse racing event is only part of what draws in visitors; Louisville is also home to famed distilleries, scenic […]

Step back in time at Nelis’ Dutch Village

As the day winds down, head to Nelis’ Dutch Village. Get a taste of culture with Dutch craft demonstrations, live music and rides like the Dutch chair swing ride. And don’t forget to try the metworst, erwtensoep or banket pastry at the café!

See the Oz Sculpture Garden at Centennial Park

This free, year-round exhibit includes life-sized bronze sculptures of the iconic characters. The main highlight? A living book cover! 

Shop the Wooden Shoe Antique Mall 

Housed in a former wooden shoe factory, it’s now home to dozens of vendors selling vintage glass, antiques collectibles and more. You’re sure to find some hidden gems! 

Life

Why Port Townsend, Washington, Should Be Your Next Adventure

Fall in love with the “City of Dreams!” Once expected to be the next big shipping hub in the U.S., this charming coastal town now offers visitors a peaceful Pacific Northwest getaway. Expect to find blooming spring scenery, sparkling water views, beautifully preserved buildings, farmers’ markets and more. Connect with nature at a state park […]

Bonus: Experience Holland at home

An appetizer inspired by deBoer’s and a captivating novel will instantly transport you to Holland, MI!

Pigs in a blanket

Ingredients:

• 1 sheet frozen puff pastry (from 17.3-oz. pkg.), thawed, unfolded
• 2 Tbs. pesto sauce
• 8 beef hot dogs
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 tsp. caraway seeds

Heat oven to 350°F. Coat a baking sheet with cooking spray. On a lightly floured surface, roll out pastry into a 12″ square; spread with pesto. Cut into 8 (1/2″-wide) strips. Wrap 1 pastry strip around each hot dog. Place on a baking sheet. Brush with egg; sprinkle with seeds. Bake until heated through and browned, 12–15 min.

Holland, Michigan, book: Waves of Mercy by Lynn Austin

This historical fiction novel focuses on two captivating stories of the faith and love of Dutch immigrants in Holland, Michigan.

This story first appeared in the May 4, 2026, issue of Woman’s World magazine.

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The best part? These five DIY projects require minimal supplies—most of which you can find at a dollar store—and they look far more expensive than they actually are. From custom candles to spa-worthy bath salts, here are five gifts that deliver big impact on a tiny budget.

DIY custom candles and pedestals make beautiful Mother’s Day gifts

You don’t need a crafting room full of supplies to create something your mom will cherish. Two of the simplest projects on this list start with items you can pick up at your nearest dollar store, and both come together in just a few minutes. Whether she’s the kind of mom who loves a quiet evening by candlelight or spends her weekends tending the garden, one of these will be just right.

Start with a plain, inexpensive candle—a dollar store find works perfectly. Add a custom label with a personal touch like “Mom’s Relaxation Candle,” then dress it up with twine, dried flowers or a gold paint pen. The secret is all in the styling. A simple white candle wrapped in twine with a sprig of dried lavender tucked in looks like something from a boutique shelf.

Dollar store candles look expensive with the right finishing touches, and the whole project takes just a few minutes to pull together. If your mom loves her garden or patio, a custom garden pedestal comes together just as fast.

In a TikTok video, a creator shows how to grab a votive and a candle holder from Dollar Tree, then stack them together with a hot glue gun to create a customized garden pedestal. She finishes the project by adding butterfly solar lights, also found at Dollar Tree. The entire build costs just a few dollars and results in something that looks custom-made for an outdoor space. It’s the kind of piece that gets compliments from every visitor.

A mini herb garden and homemade bath salts are DIY Mother’s Day gifts she’ll treasure

These two projects feel thoughtful and personal, and they both keep giving long after Mother’s Day has passed. One fills her kitchen with fresh flavors she can snip whenever she needs them. The other turns her bathroom into a spa retreat for the price of a few simple ingredients. Both are perfect for the mom who appreciates a gift that’s as practical as it is beautiful. Pick up a few herbs she lovesand plant them in a thrifted or budget pot. Basil, mint and rosemary are great options. Add handwritten or printed labels to each herb for a polished, finished look. The garden can live on a patio or indoors on a kitchen windowsill.

For anyone working with limited space, Jayme Henderson with The Kitchn writes: “Find ways to utilize your vertical space. Hanging baskets and multilevel plant stands are excellent ways to add more herbs per square foot. If you have a rail, use the long window boxes and attach them to your balcony. Try unique twists on vertical gardening, like growing herbs in re-purposed pallets.” A mini herb garden delivers fresh flavors to her kitchen for months after Mother’s Day. For a gift that feels luxurious but comes together in minutes, homemade bath salts are the answer. Combine Epsom salt, sea salt and baking soda with your mom’s favorite essential oil—peppermint is a popular choice.

Martha Stewart herself for Martha Stewart writes: “Consider experimenting with different essential oil combinations to create a signature scent for your bath salts. Some popular options include a calming lavender-chamomile blend or an invigorating eucalyptus-mint blend.” For the recipe itself, Stewart says to simply: “In a large bowl, mix to combine: 6 parts coarse sea salt; 3 parts Epsom salts, to soothe tired muscles and reduce inflammation; and 1 part baking soda, to soften waters and alleviate skin irritation.” Pour the mixture into a small glass jar and label it like a spa brand product. A clear glass jar with a handwritten label and a ribbon tied around the lid turns a few dollars’ worth of ingredients into something that looks like it belongs on a spa shelf.

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A curated Mother’s Day gift basket is the DIY project that ties it all together

When you want to give something that feels complete and polished, a personalized gift basket is the way to go. The beauty of this project is that you can customize it entirely around what your mom actually loves. Every item inside tells her you were thinking of her, and the presentation makes it feel like something you’d find in a specialty shop. Grab a small basket or tray and fill it with three to five small items: tea, a candle, lotion, a favorite snack, a handwritten note and a handful of flower petals scattered on top. Wrap the finished basket with clear cellophane and tie it off with ribbon. Build it around her morning coffee routine, her reading habit or her go-to treats. A basket assembled with that kind of attention tells her you pay attention—and that’s the most valuable thing of all.

Why handmade Mother’s Day DIY gifts mean more than anything off a shelf

None of these projects require advanced crafting skills or a big budget. A trip to the dollar store, a few minutes of assembly and one personal detail are all it takes to create something that feels special. A thoughtful handmade gift can mean more than anything pulled off a store shelf. The gifts that tend to mean the most are the ones where someone took the time to make them by hand.

Ultimate Mother’s Day Gift Guide: 30+ Easy Ideas for New Moms and the Woman Who Has Everything (Plus Discount Codes!)

11 Heartfelt Books Perfect For Mother’s Day: From Historical Fiction to Humor & More!

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Budget-friendly mother’s day breakfast in bed

Few gestures say “I appreciate you” quite like bringing mom her morning meal on a tray. It doesn’t need to be elaborate—pancakes, avocado toast or your mom’s favorite breakfast food can serve as the centerpiece. Add fresh fruit arranged on a small tray or cutting board, brew coffee or tea in her favorite mug and include a handwritten “menu” or note explaining why you love her. The presentation matters more than perfection—a simple meal feels special when someone else made it with care.

Nashia Baker and Alexandra Kelly with Martha Stewart write: “Let’s face it: Even a bowl of cereal tastes better when it’s made with love, or by someone else. All you really need is a steady hand to pour her milk. Tell Mom you love her in a special way by spelling it out with cinnamon sugar on toast. Bonus points if you pair it with a fruit-on-the-bottom, hearts-on-the-top yogurt parfait for a tasty side dish.” Even young kids can participate in this one, making it an activity the whole family can share in preparing.

Create an at-home spa experience for mother’s day

You don’t need a day spa to help mom decompress—a few thoughtful touches can transform a bathroom or bedroom into a real relaxation retreat. Start with warm towels by microwaving damp washcloths for a few seconds, turning them into an instant luxury. Set up a DIY face mask station using honey and yogurt, or pick up a store-bought sheet mask for convenience.  A nail polish station or hand massage adds another layer to the experience. Light some candles, turn on soft music and drop a bath bomb into a warm tub. The goal is to create a space where mom can truly unwind without lifting a finger. Think of it as building an atmosphere rather than replicating a professional service—the vibe is what makes it memorable.

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Mother’s day movie night and backyard picnic ideas

A cozy movie night or a charming outdoor picnic can make mom feel celebrated without anyone spending a fortune. Both ideas work beautifully for families of any size and can be pulled together with things you likely already have at home. The key with both is making the experience feel intentional—not like just another evening but like something planned with love. For movie night, let mom pick the film—her favorite classic, a rom-com she’s seen a dozen times or something entirely new. Make popcorn with sweet or salty toppings like butter, cinnamon sugar or cheese powder. Arrange blankets and pillows to create a cozy space that feels more like a private theater than the living room.

For a picnic, spread out a blanket and prepare simple snacks like sandwiches, fruit and lemonade. Place wildflowers in a jar or mason glass for an easy centerpiece and play music from a speaker to set the mood. For an extra personal touch, have each family member write a small “why we love you” card to share during the meal. 

Give mom a true day off with a mother’s day coupon book

Sometimes the best gift isn’t something you do for mom—it’s something she doesn’t have to do. If you really want to show her how much she’s appreciated, try giving her a full day free from the mental load she carries. Declare a “Mom’s Day Off” where she makes zero decisions—no chores, no cooking, no planning. Everyone else in the household picks up the slack. Handle the dishes, the laundry and whatever else usually lands on her list. Let her relax with books, a hot shower or guilt-free naps. This one costs absolutely nothing but can feel like the most generous gift of all. To extend the celebration beyond just one day, put together a homemade coupon book filled with redeemable offers like “one free chore day,” “a back massage,” “breakfast anytime you want” or “movie night of your choice.” Make it colorful and fun to flip through.

Emily Williams with Better Homes & Gardens writes: “Have the kids decorate them for things like doing the dishes after dinner, preparing a meal for mom, or an hour of free time she can cash in whenever she wants. When the kids are done personalizing the coupons, use a ribbon and a hole punch to combine them all into a booklet.” The hands-on nature of this project makes it especially meaningful coming from younger children, and the coupons give mom something to look forward to in the weeks ahead.

Why these thoughtful mother’s day celebrations mean the most

What all of these ideas share is a common thread: they put thought and effort above spending. A tray of pancakes, a warm towel, a handwritten note—none of these cost much, but they communicate something money can’t buy. Mother’s Day at home, done with intention, can be just as powerful as any grand gesture. The key is showing up, paying attention to what your mom actually enjoys and making the day feel like it belongs entirely to her.

Ultimate Mother’s Day Gift Guide: 30+ Easy Ideas for New Moms and the Woman Who Has Everything (Plus Discount Codes!)

11 Heartfelt Books Perfect For Mother’s Day: From Historical Fiction to Humor & More!

10 of The Best Classic TV Moms, Reverse Ranked — Just in Time for Mother’s Day

Explore the Louisville Slugger Museum

A trip to the downtown “Museum Row” is a great way to start your visit. Stop by the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory, which showcases the history of the iconic baseball bats and has its own bat vault!

Try historic food favorites

Once you’ve worked up an appetite, head to the cozy J. Graham’s Cafe inside The Brown Hotel. Try the famous Hot Brown, an open-faced turkey and bacon sandwich covered in Mornay sauce that was invented in 1926. And don’t forget a slice of Derby Pie for dessert!

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Kentucky Hot Browns Are the Perfect Bacony, Cheesy Sandwich — Easy Broiler Recipe

Learn to make your own Mornay sauce for extra rich flavor

Tour the Old Forester Distilling Co.

This historic spot allows guests to learn about the fascinating process of bourbon fermentation, distilling and bourbon making. Plus, there’s a gift shop to buy your favorie bottles! 

Cheer on the horses at the derby

The 152nd Kentucky Derby takes place on Saturday, May 2, 2026, at the beautiful Churchill Downs.

Explore the Ohio River aboard the Belle of Louisville steamboat

These fun cruises mean a chance to enjoy spectacular views, live music and delicious food. 

Food

Easy Homemade Kentucky Derby Pie Recipe Makes the Perfect Gooey Chocolate + Walnut Treat

There's no horsing around when it comes to this scrumptious homemade pie!

Bonus: Experience Louisville from home! 

A classic cocktail and a video presentation on a historic neighborhood will instantly transport you to the city.

Mint Julep

Ingredients: 

• 4-6 mint leaves
• 3 tsp. sugar
• 2 oz. bourbon 
• Raspberry iced tea

Muddle mint leaves and sugar in a copper mug. Add bourbon and stir. Pour evenly into 2 glasses filled with crushed ice. Add a splash of raspberry iced tea to each and garnish with mint. Serves 2.

Virtual Tour: Old Louisville

Hear a historian explain the development of the Old Louisville neighborhood by watching a video posted by the Louisville Historical League on YouTube.

This story first appeared in the April 27, 2026, issue of Woman’s World magazine.

To the moon and back 

Earth was first photographed on October 24, 1946 by a V-2 rocket that launched from the White Sands Missile Range in New Mexico. The photographer zoomed in to get the photo, and it didn’t showcase just how big, wide and round the planet was. Even so, people worldwide were astounded and curious about what else was out there. 

Space taken by a satellite

On August 23, 1966, the United States of America took its first photograph of Earth from lunar distances. It was taken during the first of five Lunar Orbiter spacecraft missions and allowed people to see Earth from far away.

Blue, green and everything in between

The first photo of Earth taken by a human was released on December 24, 1968, on the Apollo 8 by William  “Bill” Anders. It was the first color photo of the planet, allowing people to see what Earth actually looks like from outer space. 

“The back side [of the moon] looks like a sand pile my kids have played in for some time. It’s all beat up, no definition, just a lot of bumps and holes,” Anders said, per PBS. “The thing that impressed me the most was the lunar sunrises and sunsets. These in particular bring out the stark nature of the terrain.”

“As Bill put it so well after the conclusion of the Apollo 8 mission, ‘We came all this way to explore the Moon, and the most important thing is that we discovered the Earth,’” former NASA Administrator Bill Nelson said in a statement following Anders’ 2024 death, per the Seattle Times. “That is what Bill embodied—the notion that we go to space to learn the secrets of the universe yet in the process learn about something else: ourselves. He embodied the lessons and the purpose of exploration.”

Entertainment

'You Are Special': Victor Glover's Moon Message Will Give You Chills

The Artemis II crew is officially orbiting the moon, but before they got there, the four astronauts took some time to sit down with members of the press and share what this experience has been like for them. This includes pilot Victor Glover, who, in a recent social media video, took the time to send […]

Big and blue 

In December 1968, NASA released what is arguably the most famous photo of planet Earth. It was taken during the Apollo 8 mission, the first crewed mission to orbit the Moon. The photo stands out for showcasing just how blue the planet is. 

One giant leap for mankind 

The Apollo 11 mission the first time a man landed on the moon and it gave us our first photo of Earth from the moon. During the historic trip to the moon, where the famed “That’s one small step for [a] man, one giant leap for mankind” was spoken, Neil A. Armstrong and Edwin E. “Buzz” Aldrin took several photos of the planet. Here, one that showcases just how incredible the planet we live on is. 

Life

Astronaut Christina Koch's Reunion With Dog Sadie Will Make You Cry

She traveled farther from Earth than any woman ever has—looping around the moon aboard NASA’s Artemis II spacecraft. But for astronaut Christina Koch, the most emotional moment of her journey didn’t happen in deep space. It happened on her doorstep, when she dropped to her knees and a rescue dog named Sadie showered her with […]

Still going strong 

The most recent photo of Earth was taken by the Artemis II crew earlier this month. It’s the clearest photo we have of Earth thus far and according to NASA it’s going to pave the way for future scientific discoveries. 

“It was remarkable listening to the crew describe the stunning views during the flyby,” Jacob Bleacher, NASA’s chief exploration scientist at the agency’s headquarters said in a statement. “At first, their descriptions didn’t quite match what we were seeing on our screens. Now that higher resolution images are coming down, we can finally experience the moments they were trying to share and truly appreciate the scientific return provided by these images and our other research on this mission.” 

Ready for more? Subscribe to our YouTube channel for video podcasts, health tips and uplifting stories designed for women 40, 50, 60 and beyond.

Connect with nature at a state park

Begin your day at Fort Worden State Park, home to beaches, hiking trails and plenty of spots for outdoor activities like paddleboarding, bird-watching and crabbing. Afterwards, walk back in time with a visit to historic buildings such as the Coast Artillery Museum and Commanding Officer’s Quarters Museum.

Savor seafood at Salish Grill

In the evening, enjoy a meal with a waterfront view when you dine at Salish Grill. This marina-based restaurant serves up delicious seafood staples like smoked salmon chowder, Pacific cod and chips, fisherman’s stew and Moroccan rockfish—all perfect for savoring as you admire the sunset.

Stroll the downtown marina

The full-service marina offers stunning views of the water and historic 1930s-era buildings.

Life

6 Things to Do in Olympia, Washington—From Parks to a Flight Museum

Experience the beauty and charm of Olympia, Washington! Once a center of maritime trade, this scenic capital city now boasts museums, gourmet dining, markets and access to awe-inspiring national parks. Tour the Olympia Flight Museum Start your day at the Olympia Flight Museum, where you can explore historical military artifacts, detailed scale models and an […]

See the beautiful Jefferson County Courthouse

Built in 1892, the stunning structure was built in the Romanesque Revival style of architecture. It was later added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1973 and is a popular tourist spot. 

Spy the area’s black-tailed deer

A subspecies of mule deer, these gentle creatures live in forests, parks and residential neighborhoods. 

Life

6 Things to Do in Bandon, Oregon—From Scenic Viewpoints to Museums

Soak up the seaside magic of Bandon! Nicknamed the Cranberry Capital of Oregon, this charming coastal gem brims with personality—think quirky gift shops, crave-worthy dining and miles of scenic beaches. Step back in time at a history museum Start your adventure at the Bandon Historical Society Museum, located in the town’s former city hall. There, […]

Feel like you’re in the city—at home! 

Experience Port Townsend with a cocktail inspired by Silverwater Cafe and a virtual tour of a historic site.

Lavender Lemonade

Ingredients:

• 1 cup superfine sugar
• Lemon zest from 4 lemons
• 2 tsp. food-grade lavender buds
• 2 cups lemon juice
• 1 cup limoncello
• 1 cup citrus vodka

In heatproof container, combine first 3 ingredients and 1 cup boiling water. Stir until sugar is dissolved. Let cool to room temperature; strain into 1 qt. pitcher. Stir in remaining ingredients and serve over ice. Makes 8 servings.

Virtual tour: Rothschild House

Explore the interior of this beautifully decorated home from 1868. Visit WaParks.org/virtual-tours to watch.

This story first appeared in the April 20, 2026 issue of Woman’s World magazine.

Immerse yourself in beautiful lavender

Begin your visit at the family-owned Clairmont Farms, a working lavender farm home to 12,000 Grosso lavender plants. Learn about the process of lavender farming and peruse the gift shop’s homemade lavender soaps and shampoos. You can even enjoy a relaxing picnic in the lavender fields for lunch.

Raise a glass at Petros Winery 

At dusk, head over to the postcard-worthy Petros Winery, where you can sip California wines on the patio and admire the stunning landscape. Pair them with Petros’ award-winning dips, soups and appetizers for a truly memorable evening.

Enjoy a guided horseback ride 

Vinos Vaqueros is one of many local businesses that will lead you through wine country. During the unforgettable experience, you’ll travel on horseback on the renown Foxen Canyon Wine Trail. 

Life

Bask in the Beauty of Carmel-by-the-Sea, a Coastal California Village

Celebrate the season of love in Carmel-by-the-Sea! This relaxing beach village (also known as simply Carmel) may only be one square mile, but it has plenty to offer, thanks to its wineries, fairy-tale cottages, beautiful views and museums. Begin your day admiring the village’s 11 vibrant Comstock cottages on a walking tour. During this self-guided […]

Explore the area’s art galleries and studios

Welcoming spots like Gallery Los Olivos are home to more than 50 spectacular artists. Admire paintings, photographs, sculptures and more as you get to know the creators behind them.

Dine at Coast Range restaurant

This nearby favorite is known for its steak and seafood dishes, but there’s no shortage of great cocktails or appetizers either. Ask for a table on the patio for a lovely al fresco meal! 

Life

This California Town Has Hot Springs, Waterfalls and Amazing Pizza

There’s no better place to celebrate spring’s warmer weather than sun-soaked Murrieta, California.  Explore nature’s beauty at Santa Rosa Plateau Kick off your long weekend retreat with a leisurely hike through the Santa Rosa Plateau Ecological Reserve, home to more than 200 species of native birds. Be sure to stop at the Moreno and Machado […]

Bonus: Experience the city at home!

A refreshing sangria sip and a video of the town’s highlights will instantly transport you to Los Olivos.

Apple-Orange Sangria

Ingredients:

• 1 red apple (cored, diced)
• 1 Granny Smith apple (cored, diced)
• 1 orange (cut into wedges)
• 1 (750 ml) bottle of red wine
• 1 cup apple juice 
• 1/4 cup brandy
• 1 Tbs. lemon juice 
• 3 cans ginger ale

Add ingredients to a pitcher. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate at least four hours. Before serving, stir in 3 cans ginger ale and pour into ice-filled wine glasses. Serves 8.

Virtual tour

 Catch a glimpse of the cozy shops and tasting rooms Los Olivos has to offer. Watch the Discovering Wine Country Los Olivos video posted by Crushed Grape Chronicles on YouTube.

A version of this story first appeared in the April 13, 2026 issue of Woman’s World magazine.

Explore nature’s beauty at Santa Rosa Plateau

Kick off your long weekend retreat with a leisurely hike through the Santa Rosa Plateau Ecological Reserve, home to more than 200 species of native birds. Be sure to stop at the Moreno and Machado adobes, former cowboy bunkhouses that date to 1846. 

Life

5 Best Things to Do in Palm Springs for a Budget-Friendly Escape

Make memories in “Hollywood’s Desert Playground!” This Southern California destination, located in the Sonoran Desert, is home to hot springs, spas and a fantastic shopping district. There’s plenty for nature lovers as well, thanks to Palm Springs’ abundance of hiking and biking trails and its close proximity to Joshua Tree National Park. Begin your day […]

Savor local flavors in historic downtown

For postcard-worthy views, stroll to Tenaja Falls (even more beautiful just after it rains!). Worked up an appetite? Refuel at The Mill Restaurant in historic downtown Murrieta, where you can snack on sourdough garlic cheese bread or dig into the famous BBQ chicken pizza. 

If you’re visiting on the first or third Thursday of the month, pencil in time for Murrieta Market Nights from 5 to 9 pm downtown, where you can shop handmade goods from dozens of local vendors and enjoy fare from food trucks.

Soak in healing waters at Murrieta Hot Springs Resort

Ready for a little R&R? No visit is complete without a stop at Murrieta Hot Springs Resort, a renowned wellness destination originally founded in 1902 that boasts more than 50 natural mineral pools, cold plunges and contrast bathing zones. Opt for a day pass (discounts are available for seniors) to unwind beneath the swaying palm trees, or book an overnight stay for around-the-clock access to the healing hot springs and soak under the stars.

Grab dinner at the resort’s Talia Kitchen for delicious—and nutritious—fare. Finish your spring escape with a scenic hot air balloon ride over neighboring Temecula Valley Wine Country. Or if you’re traveling with little ones, spend the day at Mulligan Family Fun Center for laser tag, mini golf and go-karts.

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What Murrieta Hot Springs Taught Me About Stress Relief and Slowing Down

As someone with a self-confessed “Type A” personality who has trouble slowing down (hello, stresslaxing!), it comes as no surprise that it’s hard for me to truly unwind. But chronic stress has a way of catching up to us, and as the health director at Woman’s World, I know all too well how it can […]

Bonus: Experience Murrieta at home

Sip tropical mocktail inspired by the Murrieta Hot Springs Resort and admire the dazzling display of wildflowers during a rare California “super bloom.”

Exotic oasis

Ingredients:

• Tajin seasoning
• Ice
• 1 oz. lemon juice
• 1 oz. vanilla syrup
• 2 oz. pineapple juice
• Coconut soda
• Lemon wheel garnish

Coat the rim of a glass with the juice from a lemon wedge, then dip it in a shallow bowl of Tajin. Fill the glass with ice, then add lemon juice, vanilla syrup and pineapple juice; stir to combine. Top with coconut soda and garnish with a lemon wheel.

Marvel at nature’s stunning beauty

A spring super bloom (when many flowers bloom at once) can happen after a season of heavy rainfall. Get lost in a sea of colorful wildflowers by searching for “Valley PBS California Super Bloom” on YouTube.

This story first appeared in the April 6, 2026, issue of Woman’s World magazine. 

Lifestyle expert and television host Lora McLaughlin Peterson has a smarter way. Peterson, who shares how to live a fabulous life for less at LORAfied.com, has a handful of low-cost kitchen tricks that keep the mess contained without stealing any of the fun.

Her simplest one starts with something sitting in your utensil drawer.

A whisk does double duty as an egg holder

When dyeing hard-boiled eggs with the little ones in your life, skip dropping eggs into cups or bowls of dye with bare fingers. Instead, pop the egg inside a whisk and gently dip in the dip. The wires of the whisk cradle the egg, giving you (or a child) a secure grip while lowering it into the color. No fumbling with fingers in the dye. No egg slipping to the bottom of a cup and splashing liquid over the rim.

No whisk on hand? Tongs work great, too, according to Peterson.

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A cookie sheet and muffin tin catch every drip

Peterson’s second tip targets the spill zone. Whether you’re using dye kits or natural dyes, place your cups on a large cookie sheet to contain any spillage or drips. The raised edges of a sheet pan catch everything, turning what could be a table-wide disaster into something you can rinse off in seconds.

If you’re using smaller cups, pop them into the wells of a muffin tin for added support. This is a particularly clever move because small cups (the kind that come in most store-bought kits) tend to be lightweight and top-heavy once an egg goes in. A muffin tin locks them in place so they can’t wobble or topple.

Parchment paper beats newspaper every time

Peterson’s third tip addresses the surface beneath all the action: line your counters with parchment paper before dyeing. It’s stronger than newspaper, and dyed eggs won’t stick to it.

That nonstick quality matters more than you might expect. Traditional newspaper gets soggy fast, and wet dye can transfer through it onto the counter below. Wax paper can tear. Paper towels absorb the dye and become a mess themselves. Parchment paper resists all of that.

Once the eggs are done, place freshly dyed eggs on a baking rack to dry. This keeps air circulating around the entire surface of the egg so the color dries evenly, and you avoid those flat spots where wet dye pools against a surface and creates uneven patches.

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Why these simple swaps work so well

What ties Peterson’s tips together is a single principle: using kitchen tools you already have in ways you probably haven’t considered. A whisk becomes an egg holder. A cookie sheet becomes a spill guard. A baking rack becomes a drying station. Parchment paper becomes a counter protector. None of these require a trip to the store or a specialty product.

Egg dyeing is supposed to be a casual, festive activity, but the dread of cleanup can make people avoid it altogether or limit it to one rushed session. By setting up these small containment systems before you start, the whole process runs smoother, and the post-dyeing reset takes minutes instead of a scrubbing marathon.

Your five-minute setup before the fun begins

If you want to try Peterson’s method this season, here’s how to prep your station before cracking open the dye:

• Lay parchment paper across your work surface
• Set a large cookie sheet on top of the parchment paper
• Place your dye cups on the cookie sheet (or nestle smaller cups into a muffin tin on the sheet)
• Set a baking rack nearby for drying
• Keep a whisk or tongs at each station for dipping

For more of Peterson’s home, kitchen and life tips, visit LORAfied.com. 

Ready for more? Subscribe to our YouTube channel for video podcasts, health tips and uplifting stories designed for women 40, 50, 60 and beyond.

A version of this article originally appeared in the March 30, 2026 print issue of Woman’s World. 

Here are a few ways to do exactly that—and your whole family can get involved.

Life

8-Year-Old Makes Easter Baskets for Hundreds of Kids in Need!

In 2020, just a few weeks before Easter, 8-year-old Josh Sowden went with his stepmother, Crystal, to visit her sister at a Worcester, Massachusetts homeless shelter. Crystal’s sister had her young son with her, and seeing his cousin, and the children there stirred something in Josh’s heart. “I have so much,” he said. “And the […]

Whip up homemade chocolate bunnies

Sometimes the sweetest gifts come straight from your kitchen. Homemade chocolate bunny treats are simple to make, and they carry something store-bought candy just can’t match: a personal touch.

All you need is an Easter bunny mold from your local craft store or Amazon. A 4-pack Easter chocolate mold runs about $6, so this is a project that won’t strain your wallet. Melt your chocolate, pour it into the molds and pop them in the freezer until they harden. That’s it.

This is a wonderful activity to do with grandchildren or kids in the neighborhood, too. Little hands love helping with the pouring and unmolding. Once your chocolate bunnies are set, package them in small bags and drop them off at a local shelter.

For someone going through a tough stretch, knowing that a stranger took the time to make something just for them can be deeply meaningful.

Give your time through volunteering

The most lasting gift you can offer isn’t always something a person can hold in their hands. It’s an experience. Volunteering your time to create meaningful activities can help families in shelters build happy memories.

One great place to start is Family Promise, a national organization that works with families experiencing homelessness. To find volunteer opportunities near you, go to FamilyPromise.com, click “Get Involved,” then “Volunteer,” and type in your ZIP code to sign up in the volunteer portal.

Once you’re connected with a local shelter, think about setting up activities like crafts and story time. These hands-on experiences give children something fun to focus on during the holiday. You could also provide meals for families, turning Easter into a day centered around warmth and togetherness.

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Quinn Gasparo’s heart sank as she looked around the Milwaukee domestic violence shelter where she worked part-time. It’s Easter, will these little kids get any baskets or candy? she wondered. The nursing student had seen donated Christmas gifts pour in for the women and children during the holidays, but in the spring, resources were scarce. […]

Organize an Easter egg hunt for kids at a local shelter

Think back to the Easter egg hunts of your childhood—the excitement of searching through the grass, the thrill of finding a hidden egg. Children staying in shelters deserve that same kind of fun.

The first step is reaching out to a local shelter to ask whether they’re already hosting an Easter egg hunt. If the facility doesn’t have plans for one, offer to help make it happen. You can fill plastic eggs with individually wrapped candy for the staff to hide around the facility. Then children can hunt for them throughout Easter weekend.

Working with shelter staff is the best approach here. They know the children and their needs, so coordinating together creates the best possible experience for everyone. The staff can make sure the activity fits within the facility’s guidelines and schedule.

Budget worries? Don’t let them stop you. Plastic eggs and individually wrapped candy are widely available and inexpensive, especially in the days leading up to Easter. Even a modest egg hunt can create a moment of pure childhood joy for kids who may be dealing with uncertainty in other parts of their lives.

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A version of this article originally appeared in the March 30, 2026 print issue of Woman’s World.