Thanksgiving is right around the corner and OH NO you have been asked to host! Have no fear because Fancy Hands is here! Here is a collection of some great recipes we found for you to ensure you will impress all of your company this year!

First, and probably the staple of your feast is Turkey. Check out this recipe we found from All Recipes!

Ingredients: 

• 1 whole turkey (neck and giblets removed)

• 2 cups kosher salt

• 1/2 cup melted butter

• 4 stalks chopped celery

• 2 sprigs of fresh thyme

• 1 bay leaf

• 1 cup dry white wine

• 2 large onions (peeled and chopped)

• 4 carrots (peeled and chopped)

Directions: 

Rub your turkey inside and out with your kosher salt and place your turkey in a large stockpot, and cover it with cold water. Place in the refrigerator and allow the turkey to soak for around 12 hours.

Preheat your oven to around 350 degrees. Rinse your turkey and dump the brine mixture. Then brush your turkey with the 1/2 melted butter and place it breast side down on a roasting rack in a shallow roasting pan. Stuff the turkey cavity with 1 onion, 1/2 carrots, 1/2 celery, 1 sprig of thyme, and the bay leaf. Scatter the remaining vegetables and thyme around the bottom of the roasting pan and cover with your white wine. Roast your turkey uncovered for 3 1/2 to 4 hours (this is for an 18-pound turkey) until the internal temperature reaches 18- degrees. Turn the turkey breast side up about 2/3 through the roasting time and brush it with the remaining butter. Let the turkey cool for about 30 minutes before you carve it. 

Who doesn’t love a good Sweet Potato Casserole? Check out this recipe we found from Cooking Classy.

Ingredients:

• Sweet potatoes

• Light brown sugar

• Unsalted butter

• Milk

• Eggs

• Vanilla

• Flour

• Cinnamon

• Pecans

Directions: Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees and line a rimmed baking sheet with foil. Pierce each of your sweet potatoes twice on two different sides. Place them on your baking sheet and bake until cooked through and soft (about 60 to 75 minutes). Then reduce your oven to 350 degrees. Peel your potatoes and transfer them into a large mixing bowl and mash them with a potato masher. Let them cool for about 5-10 minutes. Add your brown sugar, 1/2 cup melted butter, milk, eggs, vanilla, and season with 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp pepper. Using an electric hand mixer blend mixture to combined well (it is okay if it is a little lumpy. Pour into a greased casserole dish and spread into an even layer. 

To make your topping, in a separate medium mixing bowl stir together flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and pecans. Pour butter into your mixture and stir until the mixture is evenly moistened. Sprinkle your mixture evenly over sweet potatoes. Bake in preheated until heated through (about 40 minutes) while tenting with foil during the last 10 to prevent excessive browning. 

Another Thanksgiving favorite is none other than the classic Pumpkin Pie.  Take a look at this recipe we found from All Recipes.

Ingredients:

• 1 can pumpkin (15 ounces)

• 1 can Sweetened Condensed Milk (14 ounces)

• 2 large eggs

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger

• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1 unbaked pie crust (9 inches)

Directions: Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. Whisk your pumpkin, sweetened condensed milk, eggs, spices, and salt in a medium bowl until smooth. Pour it into your crust and bake for 15 minutes. Reduce the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and continue baking for 35 to 40 minutes or until the knife inserted 1 inch from crust comes out clean. Cool and garnish as desired. Leftovers should be stored covered in the refrigerator. 

Need help with more recipes? Our Fancy Hands Personal Assistants can send you all the recipes you need to make your Thanksgiving Feast something your family will be thankful for in the years to come. No time to cook? That’s okay! We can also help find the best holiday caterers to do the cooking for you. No matter what you need help with this holiday season Fancy Hands has you covered!

Back to School Lunch Ideas

It’s that time of year again. Back to school time! Are your kids sick of the same old peanut butter and jelly? Check out some of these creative lunch ideas our Fancy Hands Personal Assistants came across to make you the all-star lunch packing master!

Make your Own Lunchables

All you need for this is crackers, your child's favorite lunchmeat and cheese. You can cut the cheese and lunchmeat into circles or other fun shapes. Your child will have fun at lunch putting these together.

Fruit Salad Kabobs

Keep your child healthy all while having fun. You can pick a variety of fruits and make a fruit salad kabob. These fun little treats will surely brighten up their lunch.

Wraps

Take your sandwich-making skills to the next level with sandwich wraps. You can make these a variety of different ways with countless ingredients. 

Cold Pasta Salad

Have leftover noodles from last night's dinner? Put the leftovers to good use and send them to school with a cold pasta salad. You can add a meat for extra protein.

Shredded Chicken

Cold shredded chicken can make a yummy lunch idea. You can pair it with a vegetable to keep it extra healthy.

We hope these ideas will help make your life a little easier. There are so many ways that our Fancy Hands Personal Assistants can help reduce stress in your everyday lives. Check out some of our common requests to learn more ways we can assist you. 

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As the summer is dwindling down it is time to send your kid off to college. This can truly be an overwhelming time but our Fancy Hands Personal Assistants can help you complete everything on your to-do list. Let’s start by going over a checklist for you so that you are prepared.

Alarm Clock - Make sure to set them up for success by making sure they can get up in the morning. You can even get an alarm clock where you can record your own voice so that you can always be there with them.

https://amzn.to/33hcpWe

Bedding - It is a great idea to make sure to have 2 sets of bedding because let’s face it… they will likely not keep up with laundry.

Appliances - If the dorm room doesn’t already come with appliances you should make sure to get whatever is allowed in the room (microwave, toaster, refrigerator, coffee pot, etc.)

Kitchenware - Make sure to get plates, cups, silverware, can opener, etc.

Bathroom Essentials - Make sure to get towels, robes, a shower tote (since they will likely have to carry items to and from showers), and a pair of flip-flops they can wear in the shower

Hamper - They will need someplace to store all those stinky clothes

Computer and Desk - Nowadays most courses require some kind of computer work. Whether it is a desktop or a laptop it is essential to their college success.

Storage - Since each dorm room differs you may need to get items such as storage bins, a dresser, hangers, closet organizers, etc. 

Back to School Supplies - School prep is not completed until all the basic essentials are purchased. Make sure to set them up for success with a backpack or laptop bag, pens, pencils, notebooks, etc.

Decor - Make them feel at home with some things that will remind them of being back at home. This can range from posters, to picture frames, to any keepsakes that will help them from feeling homesick. 

Extras

• Batteries

• Flashlight

• First Aid Kit

• Umbrella

• Toothbrush/toothpaste

• Shampoo and Conditioner

• Razors and Shaving Cream

• Soap

• Phone and Computer Chargers

• Cleaning Supplies

• Ice Trays

• Trash Bags

• Ziploc Bags

• Tupperware

You have spent their entire life preparing them to be on their own. They will be fine and so will you. We can also help every step of the way to make sure you both succeed. Let our Fancy Hands Personal Assistants help you complete this checklist and earn your degree in parenting!

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Let’s face it! Planning a wedding can be one of the most stressful things you ever do in your life but it doesn’t have to be. Hiring a Fancy Hands Personal Assistant to help you plan is just as good as hiring a wedding planner. We can help you every step of the way. Let’s start by going over a wedding checklist!

Determine your Budget

One of the first things you should do is figure out how much money you have to spend in total and in each area of your wedding. We suggest creating a detailed spreadsheet so you can keep track of your budget.

Create your Guest List

Since you have already set your budget you can now determine a headcount. Unfortunately, we cannot always invite everyone and creating a guest list can be super stressful. It is best to sit down with your partner and start with the most important people and then figure out how many additional people you can invite to fit comfortably within your budget. 

Choose a Date

Picking a date can be determined by where you want to get married and what is available. 

Select your Venue

Selecting a venue will set the entire mood for your wedding. Once you have an idea of the guest list you will know what size venue you need to search for. This is probably going to be the most expensive thing in your wedding decisions so make sure to budget appropriately. You should try and view several venues and create a pros and cons list for each place. 

Choose a Date

Picking a date can be determined by where you want to get married and what is available. If possible, choose a date that is meaningful to you and your partner.

Choose a Caterer

Now that you chose your venue it is time to think about food. This part can be very exciting because you get to sample lots of yummy foods. This may be the largest "dinner party" you ever host but don't stress the small stuff. Pick what foods you love and your partner love as this is a day about your love. 

Choose your Wedding Party

Congratulations! Your wedding is coming together and now it is time to choose a wedding party. Choosing your party can be very stressful as you don’t want to hurt anyone's feelings but remember this day is about you. Pick the people that mean the most to you.

Send out your Invitations

The faster you get your invites out the better. This will let you know how many people are coming and what to expect. 

Say Yes to the Dress/Suit

It is time to pick out all of the wedding attire from the dress to the suit and the wedding party outfits. Don’t do this alone and invite your wedding party to help you with the decision making. They can be a great support and make this a fun and non-stressful event.

Find your Vendors

It’s time to book your vendors. You should figure out if you would like a band, DJ, or a live band at your wedding. You should also find a cake decorator, florist, limo service, photographer, etc. 

Arrange for Accommodations for out of Town Guests

You may find yourself having a lot of guests coming from out of town and they need someplace to stay. Talk with local hotels to see if they can provide discounts for your wedding attendees.

Create your Gift Registry

Choosing where to have your gift registry can be an extremely fun task. You can choose what you need and don’t feel guilty about it. This can help grow your future with your partner.

Order Wedding Favors

Don’t forget to order your wedding favors. You can do this quickly and easily by choosing items online or going to a party/bridal store. 

Do a Makeup and Hair Trial

You have been working hard and now it is time to get pampered. Schedule yourself a makeup and hair trial to see what you like best. While you are at it book yourself a massage because you deserve it.

Pick out your Wedding Rings

Spend the day with your soon to be spouse and pick out your wedding rings. 

Finalize Honeymoon

It is time to finalize all your honeymoon plans. Make sure you have everything packed and in order. 

Book your Rehearsal Dinner

It’s getting close and it’s time to book your rehearsal dinner. This is the time to sit back and get excited. You are almost to your big day!

Last-Minute Checklist

• Get your marriage license and complete name-change documents

• Finish wedding vows

• Finish seating chart

• Assign a member of your wedding party to pack your gifts/belongings after the reception (don't forget the top tier of your cake)

• Relax with a nice mani-pedi

• Sit back and relax with your loved one at the rehearsal dinner

• Get some rest

Remember, this day is about you and yes, it can be very stressful but hiring a virtual assistant can help relieve that stress. Let us help you complete your to-do list and make this day memorable for the rest of your life. 

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How Your Company Can Reduce Its Carbon Footprint

Here at Fancy Hands, we often get asked how can our client's companies reduce their carbon footprint. In our latest blog post you can find some great ideas on how your company can accomplish this:

Reducing your companies carbon footprint not only helps the environment but it can build office morale and is good for your business. In many ways, it can also help you save money.

Consider your Companies Energy Usage

One of the first things you can do is consider how much energy your business uses. You can reach out to your energy provider for a better understanding of what your company uses in regards to energy. There are simple measures you can take and instruct your employees to take as well. For example:

• Turning off the lights when not in use

• Turn off computers when not in use

• Use rechargeable batteries

• Use energy-efficient light bulbs

Choosing the Right Office Supplies

Another way you can reduce your carbon footprint is by choosing the correct office supplies. A good place to start would be to look for electronics and appliances that are ENERGY STAR compliant. This could be everything from your office computers to your heating and cooling equipment and even your office refrigerator. You can also utilize websites such as the Responsible Purchasing Network which offers companies guidance on the best options of supplies to purchase.

Reduce your Office Waste

There are many steps you can take as a business owner to reduce the waste in your office. For example:

• Replace water bottles by installing a water filtration system to your office faucet (For example a Brita or Pur system)

• Purchase reusable coffee mugs for your employees

• If you are printing make sure to use both sides of the paper

• Provide lunch options to your employees so they don’t have to drive to get lunch

• Add recycling bins around the office

• Make sure to recycle any electronics (like old computers, ink cartridges, etc.)

• Buy supplies in bulk to reduce shipping and packaging waste

Additional Tips

There are many additional ways that you can reduce your companies carbon footprint:

• Adjust your thermostat and turn the heat up. If you increase the temperature by 2 degrees in the summer you can save up to 10% on your energy bill

• Open the blinds and use natural lighting

• Add a bike rack so employees can bike to work if possible

• Offer to pay for your employees gas to work if they choose to carpool

• If possible go paperless

• If possible swap a desktop computer for laptops. Laptops use 80% less power than desktop computers. 

• Use ceiling fans over air conditioning

• Remember the 3 Rs: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle

• Use a Carbon Footprint Calculator

Believe it or not, another way to help your carbon footprint is by hiring a virtual assistant. By hiring virtual assistants you reduce car usage, you will use less paper since most of the work will be completed online, you will end up using less electricity in your office and more. Let us all work together to make a better tomorrow. Learn more about how Fancy Hands can help you http://bit.ly/Fancyhands. 

Top 5 Unique Hotels

Planning a vacation can be hard and choosing the ultimate hotel can prove to be even harder. These hotels are sure to make this a vacation to remember!

Giraffe Manor

https://www.thesafaricollection.com/properties/giraffe-manor/

Giraffe Manor in Kenya, owned by The Safari Collection and is set in 12 acres of private land within 140 acres of indigenous forest in Nairobi. You can vacation with a herd of resident Rothschild’s giraffe’s who may even stick their heads in your window looking for a treat. You can book a room separately or as part of a tailor-made safari from The Safari Collection.

Henn na Hotel 

http://www.h-n-h.jp/en/

Staying at the Henn na Hotel in Japan is like staying in the hotel of the future. The Henn na Hotel is the first-ever hotel to be staffed by robots. You read that correctly, robots! Your stay will start at the front desk where you will be greeted by multi-lingual robots that will help you with your check-in/out needs. It also features a cloakroom with a robotic arm that can store your luggage for you. They also have a face recognition system where you will be free from having to carry a room key around. So take a step into the future with this trip. 

Book and Bed 

http://bookandbedtokyo.com/tokyo/index.html

Become the ultimate book nerd at the Book and Bed in Tokyo. You can literally sleep within a bookcase filled with plenty of reading material. They have over 3,500 books both in Japanese and English. So grab your most comfy PJs and get ready to curl up with a good book and take a vacation to another world within your regular vacation.

V8 HOTEL 

https://www.v8hotel.de/en/informing/v8hotel/

We all know a car lover and this is the ultimate car lover hotel. The V8 Hotel located in Germany has 16 themed V8 rooms. They have the perfect room to cater to just about anyone from a Pan Am room to a Car Wash themed room. This is the perfect hotel for those who want to feel like they are literally driving off into the sunset.

Dog Bark Park Inn

https://www.dogbarkpark.com/

From car lovers to dog lovers. Located in Idaho this Bed and Breakfast is certainly something to wag your tail over! You can stay inside the World's Biggest Beagle. Guests will go into the body of the beagle from a private 2nd story deck and the head of the beagle is a loft room with additional sleeping space with a cozy alcove in the dog's muzzle. This "Dog House" is filled with dog-related memorabilia and furnishings that were sculpted by resident self-taught chainsaw artists Dennis and Frances!

No matter where you want to stay, our Fancy Hands Virtual Assistants can help you plan the perfect vacation. From the unique to luxury vacations, we have you covered! Sign up today and let’s get this vacation going https://www.fancyhands.com/pricing!

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Are you stuck behind a desk all day dreaming about the perfect getaway? Whether you’ve got the perfect destination in mind or need to discuss options, the hardest part of a vacation is always planning the details. So let us take care of it for you!

Here are a few ways we can help you have the vacation of your dreams:

• Not sure of where you would want to go? Give us a few ideas of what you would like to do on your vacation and we can research the best destination for you!

• Need to know about Visas, travel requirements, and local dos and don’ts.

• We can help you find the cheapest flights, hotels, and car rentals around

• Need an hour by hour itinerary of your trip? No problem!

• Need to know where to eat? We’ve got you covered! We will find the best restaurants around! 

• You’ve arrived on your perfect getaway but have no idea where to go. We can help you find the best tourist attractions around.

• Want to plan a romantic date? We’ve got you covered.

The hardest part of a vacation is always the planning phase so let us take care of it for you! You work hard all year so take a break and let us help you reach the ultimate relaxation! 

The 5 Craziest Airbnb’s

Summertime is here and it is time to pick the perfect destination for your summer vacation. Are you looking for a destination that is just a little bit whacky? Let us explore some of the weirdest Airbnb’s we’ve found.

• Have you ever been told you live in a bubble? Well, now you can do just that, at least temporarily, thanks to the Campera Hotel - Bubble Suite 2. Campera is a ten bubble hotel and each room has its own full-size bed and private bathroom. 

Source: http://bit.ly/2KbqvlL

• You can vacation in a fairytale in this hobbit style Airbnb in Orondo, Washington. This one bedroom and one bath vacay will set you back around $400 a night but with its charm and beauty, it is definitely worth every penny. 

Source: http://bit.ly/2wOg3Yu

• Vacationing under the stars is a dream for many and with this Airbnb, it can become a reality. You can rent the Off-grid Adobe Dome in the Desert in Terlingua, Texas for only $88 per night! This amazing vacation spot is completely off the grid and powered by solar power so cozy up with your loved ones under the stars this summer.

Source: http://bit.ly/2XzMtC0

• It’s a bird, it’s a plane, it’s an Airbnb? You can actually vacation on a plane that was turned into an Airbnb. This truly unique experience is located in Saint-Michel-Chef-Chef, France and will cost around $101 per night and can fit up to 4 guests. It's pretty fly if you ask us!

Source: http://bit.ly/2KbHDI8

• Are you tired of the same old 4 walls? Then the Cube House in Rotterdam, Netherlands is the perfect choice for you. With its unique shape and design, this will be a stay you never forget so stop being a square and plan your trip today!

Source: http://bit.ly/2X3aTqw

There are so many unique experiences out there and our Fancy Hands virtual assistants can help you find and plan your next trip. Let us help you take the stress away plan the ultimate vacation. Learn more about Fancy Hands by visiting our website https://www.fancyhands.com/pricing. 

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It is that time of year again to celebrate America with parades, BBQs, and Fireworks!  We know everyone’s got their own special traditions and twists for their celebrations, but we thought we’d suggest some fresh new ideas to add to your 4th of July bash!

Check out this collection of recipes and quick ideas that will have your party guests singing your praises all year long!

Berry Patriotic:

These adorable fruit kabobs are the perfect appetizer and will give your party the ultimate patriotic edge. Simply thread 4 blueberries, 2 mini- marshmallows and 2 raspberries on each of five 10-inch wooden skewers. On the remaining sticks, thread 4 raspberries, and 3 marshmallows to create this delicious treat.

https://www.familycircle.com/recipe/berry-patriotic/

4th of July Firecracker Hot Dogs

Be the talk of the town with this creative take on the traditional party favorite: the hot dog.

Start by putting your hot dogs on a skewer leaving about an inch and a half exposed at the top of each dog. Then take breadstick dough or croissant dough and wrap each hot dog until you get to the top. Place the wrapped dogs on a nonstick pan or parchment paper and bake for about 20 minutes at 350 degrees (cooking times may vary).

Cut out star-shaped cheese. You may need to have your cheese sliced at the deli counter (have them cut to 1/4″-3/8″ thick).

Make sure the hot dogs have cooled and place the star on the top of the skewers and wallah a patriotic take on the traditional hot dog.

https://www.handmadeintheheartland.com/4th-of-july-firecracker-dogs/

Kid-Friendly Patriotic Punch

We can’t forget that perfect summer drink and we found the perfect one. You may need to channel your inner scientist for this one but it is well worth it. You will need to find colored drinks with different sugar contents to create that layered effect.

Start by filling your glasses about 1/4-1/3 of the way up with the drink with the highest sugar content per serving.

Then fill the cup full of ice and pour the drink with the next highest sugar content into the cup very slowly to avoid the colors combining.

Repeat with the next color. If you want to add a little extra flair add some Twizzlers as a straw.

https://www.momendeavors.com/kid-friendly-patriotic-punch/

M & M Flag Cake

We can’t forget the most important part of any party… the dessert! Look like a professional cake maker with this super cute M&M Flag cake!

Start by making a square cake (any flavor you like). Once the cake cools put on white frosting or buttercream. Then the fun part of placing your colored M&Ms. Place a border of blue M&Ms around the edge of the cake. Then add a square of blue to represent the stars of the flag. Use two rows of red and white alternating each other and then there you have it.

We hope you enjoy these recipes and they make you the talk of the town. No time to make them, that’s okay also. Our Fancy Hands Virtual Assistants can help you find a caterer in your area to ensure you still have the best 4th of July shindig in town. Check us out https://www.fancyhands.com/pricing!

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Teacher Gift Ideas

Can you believe it? It is the end to yet another school year and boy did it fly by. But what should you get for the teacher that taught your child all year? Let us take the guesswork out of it for you and give you some great ideas

What teacher wouldn’t benefit from an Amazon gift card and Amazon now has a bookmark shaped card which is perfect for any teacher!

• We all know a teacher who deserves the “Golden Apple Award” and now you can give it to them

• This adorable book that can be filled out by your student (or you can get the entire class involved) would make the perfect end of year keepsake for any teacher

• Teachers truly can be the angels among us and what better way to show your appreciation than with this amazing figure they can display proudly year after year

• Let’s face it teaching can be a tough job but you can help ease the stress with this morning and afternoon cup duo

These are just a few quick ideas we came up with for you but with Fancy Hands the possibilities are endless. Our amazing virtual assistants can help you find and order the perfect gift for any occasion.

To learn more about some of the common tasks we can help you with please make sure to visit our website here https://www.fancyhands.com/common. Remember no matter what it is Fancy Hands has you covered!

Best of the Best Dad Jokes

We’ve compiled a list of the best of the best dad jokes! Read on for a chuckle, even if it’s a cheesy one!

-What do you call a fake noodle? An impasta

-Want to hear a joke about paper? Nevermind it's tearable.

-How does a penguin build it's house? Igloos it together.

-Why did the scarecrow win an award? Because he was outstanding in his field.

-What did the grape do when he got stepped on? He let out a little wine.

-To whoever stole my copy of Microsoft Office, I will find you. You have my Word!

-How many apples grow on a tree? All of them.

-Did you hear about the guy who invented Lifesavers? They say he made a mint!

-My friend says to me, “What rhymes with orange?” And I told him, “No it doesn’t!”

-I know a lot of jokes about retired people…but none of them work!

-After dinner. my wife asked if I could clear the table. I needed a running start, but I made it!

-If you see a robbery at an Apple Store does that make you…an iWitness?!

-Did you know the first French fries weren't actually cooked in France? They were cooked in Greece.

-I ordered a chicken and an egg from Amazon. I’ll let you know.

-3 unwritten rules of life...

1.

2.

3.

(this would be great for an email or text!)

-What did the pirate say on his 80th birthday? AYE MATEY

-What do you call a dog that can do magic? A Labracadabrador.

-Why couldn't the bike stand up by itself? It was two tired.

-When you ask a dad if he's alright: "No, I’m half left.”

-Two guys walk into a bar, the third one ducks.

-Want to hear a joke about pizza? Nevermind, it’s cheesy.

-What did the buffalo say to his son when he dropped him off at school? Bison.

Hilarious Father's Day Gifts

With Mother’s Day just having passed, graduation season upon us, and Father’s Day quickly approaching, you are probably in gift buying overload mode! Check out these ideas for hilarious Father’s Day gifts. Need help ordering something for the father in your life? We’ve got you covered!

-Custom Super Dad Face Socks $15.95

-Dad Joke Uploading Mug $8.60

-Tattoupees for Bald Guys $6.99

-Emergency Beard Guards $5.99

-Manly Mints $2.99

-Goodnight Brew Book - A Parody for Beer People $16.95

-Instant Underpants $3.99

-Borrow My Pen? $7.99

-Gin And Titonic Ice Tray $9.99

-Bad Dog Wisdom Tumblers $35

-Beeropoly $35

-Classical painting, King, Renaissance portraits, Medieval portraits, Victorian portraits $41.61

-Dad Jokes: Terribly Good Dad Jokes $4.99

-Compendium Of Lines For All Occasions: Insults, Excuses, Rejections, Mind Games, Put-Downs, Cop-Outs $15.99

-Soap For A Man’s Man $9.99

-Are You Dumber Than A Box Of Rocks Game $14.99

Memorial Day became an official holiday in 1971 and celebrates U.S. military members that have given their lives to fight for our freedom. It is also generally thought of as the start of summer. Besides the traditional cook-outs and fireworks, see what else you can do for the holiday:

• On Memorial Day Eve (5/26/19 at 8 pm EST on PBS), check out the national concert. You can expect to see performances, watch documentaries, and hear stories about honoring the military

• Organize a “thank you” letter event from the children in your neighborhood. Check out A Million Thanks for more information

• Send a care package from Operation Gratitude

• Honor the veteran in your life with a patriotic dish

• Listen to veterans share their stories on StoryCorps

• Participate in the 1 minute National Moment of Silence which happens at 3 pm in your time zone

• Donate or sponsor flowers to a veteran cemetery near you

• Show your support by going to a parade

• Donate to a local veterans hospital or organization

• Download this list of patriotic songs for your party

• Organize a neighborhood event and charge an entry fee and/or have raffled items. Donate all proceeds to a military organization

• Visit a historical military museum

Don’t forget to let us know if you need help with any planning or researching any of the above activities!

It’s that time of year again...Spring! And with the change of seasons and warmer temperatures, there are things you haven’t had to worry about since last year. Need help getting the following items checked off of your list, and want to save money while doing it? Let our Fancy Hands Assistants help. Click here to find out how.

• Clean the refrigerator and air conditioner coils

• Get your HVAC system checked

• Clean your gutters

• Have a roof inspection

• Check around the outside of your house for water or other damage (foundation and chimney included)

• Clean your dryer vent

• Plant a tree to help with cooling costs

• Recaulk your doors and windows

• Fix leaky faucets

• Check your attic and basement for moisture or pest issues

• Clean the outside of your windows

• Clean your curtains and/or blinds

• Do a thorough dusting of tops of cabinets, ceiling fans, and otherwise neglected areas

• Inspect your deck and get it power washed

• Clean your lawn furniture

• Perform landscaping and lawn maintenance

• Clean your grill

• Check your driveway for necessary repairs

• Get your carpets cleaned

• Repair or replace damaged screens

• Change the direction of your ceiling fans

• Freshen up the outside of your house by painting the front door or updating the house numbers or outside fixtures

• Make an appointment with a pest control company for the prevention of pests (vermin, insects, termites, etc)

• Check your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors

• Have your hot water tank serviced and cleaned

Fancy Spring Cleaning Tips

It is that time of year again: Spring cleaning! Keeping your home tidy can become overwhelming and we are here to help. Here are some tips and tricks we have come up with for you to make your life a little easier the Fancy Hands way.

Make Yourself a Schedule: We all know it is hard to stay on track. We recommend making a schedule for your cleaning. You can start by looking through your home to see which rooms you need to focus more on. Once you have a schedule and game plan you are more likely to stay on track. They are also great for that extra happy feeling of accomplishment when you can mark a task complete.

Declutter:  With the Konmari Method by Marie Kondo, you can gather all of your belongings (one category at a time) and keep only what “sparks joy.” Don’t be afraid to get rid of items that do not bring you happiness. You will not only declutter your home but you will gain happiness and live in a less stressful home.

Donate:  Now that you have cleaned and de-cluttered you need to figure out what to do with all your unwanted items. What better way to get rid of it then to donate it? For information on where you can donate items such as old clothes please look here.

Check Out These Other Cleaning Trends:

• KonMari Method which says “clean by category, not by location”. Watch the video here.

• Rachel Hoffman’s 20-10 Method in which you set a timer and clean for 20 minutes and take a break for 10.

Of course, we all can get super busy and just have no time for spring cleaning. If you are one of those people please have no fear! That is where Fancy Hands can benefit you. We can help find someone in your area to come and clean your home so you can sit back and relax and have time to stop and smell all the beautiful spring flowers. From all of us here at Fancy Hands we wish you a Happy Spring!

Funny Mother's Day Gift Ideas

Tired of getting your mom the same old, same old for Mother’s Day? Does she or do you have a sense of humor? If so, you’ve come to the right place! Read on for the funniest Mother’s Day Gifts! Need help purchasing one of them? We’ve got you covered, click here to find out more.

• Put My Face On A Wine Glass If I Go Missing $10.99 https://www.offthewagonshop.com/collections/funny-mothers-day-gifts/products/put-my-face-on-a-wine-glass-if-i-go-missing

• Please Don’t Die X Planter $19.99 https://www.offthewagonshop.com/collections/funny-mothers-day-gifts/products/please-dont-die-x-planter

• Margarita Pong Game $11.99 https://www.offthewagonshop.com/collections/funny-mothers-day-gifts/products/margarita-pong-game

• Where The Wild Moms Are Book $14.99 https://www.offthewagonshop.com/collections/funny-mothers-day-gifts/products/copy-of-goodnight-brew-book-a-parody-for-beer-people

• Disney Villains Face Mask Collection $18.99 https://www.firebox.com/Disney-Villains-Face-Mask-Collection/p8873

• Big Personality Desk Sign $28 https://www.uncommongoods.com/product/big-personality-desk-signs

• A Snarky Adult Coloring Book $8.48
  https://www.amazon.com/dp/1533270775/

• World's Okayest Mom Shirt $19.99 https://www.etsy.com/listing/549046092/worlds-okayest-mom-shirt-mom-shirt-mom

• Queen For The Day Inflatable Crown $4.99 https://www.offthewagonshop.com/collections/funny-mothers-day-gifts/products/queen-for-the-day

• Krispy Kreme Jelly Belly Bag $2.59

• https://www.offthewagonshop.com/collections/funny-mothers-day-gifts/products/krispy-kreme-jelly-belly-bag

• Panic Pete Stress Ball $6.99 https://www.offthewagonshop.com/collections/funny-mothers-day-gifts/products/panic-pete

• Holy Toast Bread Stamper $4.99 https://www.offthewagonshop.com/collections/funny-mothers-day-gifts/products/wwf-holy-toast

• Gift the Singing Egg Timer $20
  https://www.uncommongoods.com/product/singing-egg-timer

• Magic Spoon 4-Box Subscription, $35.10/month (a monthly subscription of cereal!) https://magicspoon.com/products/variety-pack-cereal-case?sscid=51k3_562j1

• Lucky Wind Up Parking Space Goddess $4.99 https://www.offthewagonshop.com/collections/funny-mothers-day-gifts/products/lucky-wind-up-parking-space-goddess

Mother's Day 2019

ALERT: Mother’s Day is Sunday, May 12th, 2019. Do you know what you’re getting the moms in your life yet? Our Fancy Hands Assistants can help you find the perfect gift!

But first, a brief history of Mother’s Day. Anna Jarvis (who by the way never married or had children) created the Americanized holiday in 1908 but it didn’t become official until 1914. She then tried to get it removed because she didn’t like the commercialization of it. The tradition of honoring mothers actually started with the early Greek and Roman festivals which honored Rhea and Cybele, who were mother goddesses. The Mother’s Day that we now celebrate stems from a Christian festival called Mothering Sunday.

Fun Facts:

• More calls are made on Mother’s Day than any other day of the year (there’s a  37% spike of phone traffic).

• Worldwide in most languages, mother starts with the letter M.

• Flowers make up about one quarter of sales for florists for the holiday.

• Carnations are the most popular flower for the holiday. Red and pink for living mothers and white for those who have passed.

• In the former Yugoslavia, children tied up their mothers on Mother’s Day and she had to pay her children in treats to get free.

Want to give her a Fancy Hands subscription? Click here.

Buying gifts, coordinating travel, hosting (and going to!) parties.

Let's face it: we could all use some extra help around the holidays. That's why we've released our 2016 Holiday Helper, full of request ideas for the holidays. 

Here are just a few of the holiday tasks we can help take off your plate: 

• Figuring out where and when Santa will be taking photos near you
  
• Finding and booking a cleaning service before and/or after the holidays
• Helping you get food and alcohol delivered for your party
• Researching volunteer opportunities near you, or suggesting organizations to which you can donate
• Coordinating last-minute travel
• Putting together shopping lists based off of your holiday recipes
• Planning the perfect holiday menu
• Finding possible discounts on your holiday gift list
• Researching and booking a last-minute venue for your office holiday party

Want to see the rest? Check out our 2016 Holiday Helper and ease your way through the holidays! 

PS: Looking for a personal, useful and unique gift? Take advantage of our Discount-down and get discounted Fancy Hands gift subscriptions for everyone on your list this year. They're easy to send, and won't break the bank. Buy now to save more- the discount drops 1% every day! 

Yes! It really is the week of Thanksgiving. 

Whether you need help cleaning, figuring out a recipe or finding last minute accommodations, we're here for you. 

Here's a shortlist of last-minute Thanksgiving items we can help you with: 

• Finding a cleaning service to come before (and/or after) Thanksgiving to make your home so fresh and so clean
• Researching dietary-restriction friendly recipes of traditional Thanksgiving fare 
• Putting together shopping lists based off of your recipes
• Researching open restaurants and making a last-minute reservation for you and your Thanksgiving crew
• Ordering pies and other sweet treats from your local bakery 
• Helping you find last-minute hotel or AirBnB accommodations
• Creating a menu for Thanksgiving dinner
• Finding the best Black Friday deals 

We can help with all of these, plus a bunch more. Let us know what you need and we'll help make your Thanksgiving as easy as...pie.