Kristin van Ogtrop's Blog, page 69

Wednesday Trivia: The Evolution of Santa Claus

Think you know it all about the jolly man in the big red suit? Here are some fun Santa facts to share under the tree to impress your loved ones, from Michael J. Leclerc, Chief Genealogist at genealogy site Mocavo.com. · The original Saint Nicholas was actually a fourth-century bishop whose passion was giving gifts to the poor. By the Middle […]

Merry Christmas from Real Simple!

Wishing you a merry Christmas from everyone here at Real Simple. If your holiday is anything nearly as cozy as this reader’s, consider it a success:Filed under: Conversation Starters

How to Dress Up Store-Bought Cookies

If you didn't have time to whip up a batch of homemade holiday cookies, use this tip, courtesy of the experts at PAM baking, to add a sprinkle of cheer to store-bought or semi-homemade treats.

Today’s Thought

Get the daily thought in your inbox. See more inspiring quotes on our Pinterest board. What’s Hot on RealSimple.com Splitting the Wedding Tab 20 Ways to Upgrade Your Bathroom 10 Festive Party DrinksFiled under: Daily Thought

How to Do At-Home Ombré Hair

People frequently ask me whether the ombré look (darker roots, lighter ends; sometimes referred to as dip-dyed ends) is in or over. I consider the look a new classic and, as such, not one that’s every likely to become passé.  In fact, it’s a nice option for women like myself who can’t commit to a full-head of highlights but like […]

New Year’s Morning Brunch via Apartment Therapy

I’ve never had a New Year’s day tradition so when I stumbled across this post from our friends at Apartment Therapy, I just had to share. I love the idea of hosting a New Year’s morning brunch and this post supplies you with everything you need: festive decor ideas, plus food and music tips to ring in the New Year! […]

Do You Always Forget Christmas Lyrics?

Before you go caroling today, have the Google Search app handy on your smartphone, if you happen to be bad with remembering lyrics. (It’s certainly one easy way to avoid a “Deck the halls with Buddy Holly” moment.) All you do is touch the app’s microphone symbol, say, “Let’s go caroling,” and you’ll be able to see the most popular […]

Today’s Thought

Get the daily thought in your inbox. See more inspiring quotes on our Pinterest board. What’s Hot on RealSimple.com Can You Shrink Your Pores? Best Punch Recipes Classic Christmas TunesFiled under: Daily Thought

What to Do If You Get Stuck at the Airport

Delayed flights can be extremely stressful, especially when you’re already at the airport, and can’t leave for a few hours. To make the wait more bearable, National Public Radio contributor Harriet Baskas suggests first and foremost not to sit and stew, but rather to find an information booth to see what the airport has to offer—you’d be surprised at the […]

How to Make Better Sugar Cookies

Surprising Fact: According to a survey conducted by PAM baking, holiday bakers will discard over 200,000 sweet treats due to less than perfect results. If you're planning to churn out a batch of holiday cut-out cookies this weekend, use this tip to ensure your goods aren't among those in the waste basket.