If you’ve never played with planar resins before, prepare to fall in love 💕 These little flat-backed beauties are some of the most versatile craft supplies out there—and we should know! We’ve listed over 500 unique designs (and counting!) in our Etsy shop: NestingWithTheNizzis. Whether you’re a seasoned crafter, a creative small shop owner, or just someone who loves making cute things, planar resins are your new favorite secret weapon. They’re smooth, flat, lightweight, and come in the most adorable shapes and styles you can imagine. So… what exactly are they? Planar resins are small resin pieces with a glossy design on one side and a smooth flat back—perfect for gluing, embellishing, and customizing all kinds of crafty creations. Just a few of the fun planar resins we offer… Yes, there are DIY tutorials out there that show how to make your own planar resins—but fair warning: it requires purchasing multiple materials like resin, molds, a printer for waterslide paper or UV prints, sealants, and more… and there’s a definite learning curve. That’s where we come in! We take all the guesswork and labor out of the equation. You just focus on the fun part—we do the rest. ✂️✨ Here’s just a taste of what our customers use them for: Hair bow makers use them as playful, eye-catching centers. Crafters use them to decorate hair clips, badge reels, and even phone cases. Scrapbookers and card makers love them as lightweight, flat embellishments. They’re perfect for bookmarks, magnets, keychains, and holiday ornaments. Fake bakers use them to top faux cupcakes, cookies, and candy creations. Some makers embed them in glycerin soap for a whimsical touch. Jewelry artists use our pre-drilled or DIY drillable versions to make earrings, necklaces, and bag charms. Basically, If you can imagine it, you can probably make it with a planar resin. They’re like tiny nuggets of art waiting to add sparkle to your next project 🎨 We’re proud to offer the largest selection of planar resins on Etsy—and the most affordable, too. We even offer custom orders if you want us to turn your personal image or photo into a one-of-a-kind design! Want more crafty ideas and inspiration? Browse the Nesting With the Nizis blog, where we share easy DIY projects, small shop tips, and real-life stories from our family-run craft biz. 💌 P.S. Be sure to scroll to the bottom of the page and join our free mailing list—you’ll get creative inspo, DIY tutorials, exclusive coupon codes, and sneak peeks at our newest product drops. Trust us, your inbox will thank you. 🛍️ Click here to shop our planar resins on Etsy📚 Visit the blog for more crafty content Why Buy from Nesting With The Nizis? We’re an independent craft supply boutique that is family owned. We ship quickly and provide excellent quality products, we’re building a crafty community where you can find support and encouragement on -join our facebook group to join the community. We provide much lower prices here on our wesbsite as opposed to our other selling sites (Ebay and eEsy) because we don’t have to pay overhead / selling fees. We want to help empower crafters and makers- and provide the supplies they need at an awesome price. Be sure to subscribe to the mailing list as well so you don’t miss any new product drops.

Hey there, Nesting With The Nizis family! As the winter chill sets in, there’s nothing better than cozying up with some top-tier winter-themed shows and movies. I’ve curated a list of eight frosty favorites, that we think you’ll love. In our house, Tuesday nights are sacred—it’s our official date night. We chose Tuesdays because we absolutely love movies, and Tuesdays mean discounted tickets at our local theater (Classic Cinemas in St. Charles, IL) This chain of theaters offers $6 Tuesday movie tickets at the Charlestowne 18 theater (it used to be just $5 but.. inflation y’all 😂). This deal applies to all movies (excluding special events), with only a $2 surcharge for 3D films. Considering regular movie tickets at other theaters can average anywhere from $18 to $25 depending on Dolby or IMAX, this is a no-brainer for movie lovers like us. But when winter rolls in with its icy roads and frigid temps—like last week’s record-breaking lows that turned our driveway into an ice rink and took out our internet, the thought of bundling up and braving the cold loses some of its charm. Instead, we’ve embraced staying in, cozying up on the couch, and letting DoorDash do the heavy lifting when it comes to dinner. There’s something so satisfying about eating takeout in your favorite blanket cocoon while the glow of the TV lights up the room. It’s our perfect low-key escape from the chaos of the week. When is YOUR date night? Is it a set day? How often do you go out, and what are your fave go-to couple adventures? Drop us a comment and let us know!  And let’s be real, staying in spares me from sitting next to that person in the theater. You know the one—the person who texts, talks, snores, or coughs through the whole movie. Without fail, they always end up in the seat right next to me! Instead, our home theater comes with no distractions (other than maybe the dogs trying to steal a fry or two). Sometimes we’ll binge a couple of episodes of a new show, and other times we’ll finally get around to a movie that’s been sitting on our watchlist. It’s become our way to reconnect, laugh, and unwind together without the hassle. Winter may make the world outside feel harsh and uninviting, but it’s also the perfect excuse to slow down and enjoy these cozy little moments. And honestly, nothing beats the luxury of pausing a movie whenever we want—whether it’s for a snack run, dessert break, or just to rewind and laugh at the same scene for the third time. Date night, winter-style, is my absolute favorite.Let’s dive in! 1. True Detective: Night Country (Season 4) Streaming on: Max (subscription required) Our beloved anthology series takes a chilling turn in Alaska. Detectives Liz Danvers (Jodie Foster) and Evangeline Navarro (Kali Reis) investigate the eerie disappearance of eight scientists from Tsalal Station. As they dig deeper, they unearth haunting truths buried beneath the ice. Prepare for suspense that’ll make your hot cocoa seem lukewarm. Note: You don’t need to have watched the previous seasons to dive into True Detective: Night Country—each season stands on its own with a completely new story and cast. Also, the music in this season is GREAT as well!  2. Life Below Zero Streaming on: Disney+ (subscription required) This gripping docuseries offers an unfiltered look at the daily challenges of Alaskans living off the grid. From hunting for sustenance to braving sub-zero temperatures, it’s a testament to human resilience. Perfect for when you’re bundled up inside, marveling at those who choose to face winter head-on. 3. Snowpiercer Streaming on: Netflix (subscription required) In a post-apocalyptic world frozen solid, the last remnants of humanity survive aboard a perpetually moving train. Class warfare, social injustice, and the fight for survival ensue. It’s a thrilling ride that might make you appreciate your stationary living room. 4. Fargo (TV Series) Streaming on: Hulu (subscription required) Inspired by the Coen Brothers’ classic film, this anthology series blends crime, dark humor, and the stark beauty of snow-covered landscapes. Each season presents a new tale of intrigue set against a frosty Midwestern backdrop. Just remember, don’tcha know, it’s all purely fictional. 5. The Terror (Season 1) Streaming on: AMC+ (subscription required) Based on a true story, this horror series chronicles the harrowing voyage of the HMS Terror and HMS Erebus as they search for the Northwest Passage. Trapped in the Arctic ice, the crew faces starvation, mutiny, and a sinister presence lurking in the frigid darkness. It’s a chilling tale that’ll make your thermostat seem like the real hero. My Personal FAVE on this list!! 5 stars for sure! AND if you watched The Crown , you’ll recognize many of the actors.  6. Northern Exposure Streaming on: CBS All Access (subscription required) This charming dramedy follows Dr. Joel Fleischman, a New York physician begrudgingly assigned to the quirky town of Cicely, Alaska. Between eccentric locals and cultural clashes, it’s a heartwarming exploration of community and adaptation. Think of it as a warm hug in a cold wilderness. 7. The Grey Streaming on: Amazon Prime Video (rental/purchase) Liam Neeson stars as an oilman stranded in the Alaskan wilderness after a plane crash. Facing brutal conditions and a pack of relentless wolves, it’s a survival thriller that keeps you on the edge of your seat. Fair warning: you might start eyeing your dog suspiciously after watching this one haha! 😆  8. The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe Streaming on: Disney+ (subscription required) Step through the wardrobe into the magical land of Narnia, where an eternal winter imposed by the White Witch awaits. Join the Pevensie siblings as they team up with Aslan to bring spring back to the realm. It’s a fantastical escape that reminds us all that winter can be conquered. So, there you have it! Eight winter-themed gems to keep you entertained as the snow falls outside. Grab your favorite blanket, a steaming mug of something delicious, and let the binge-watching begin. What are YOU watching this winter? Drop us a comment and let us know! Stay warm, and enjoy! 

Okay, let’s talk vision boards. I know, it sounds a little “Pinterest mom,” but hear me out—it’s way cooler than you think. A vision board isn’t just a collection of magazine clippings or a kindergarten craft project (though, I mean, who doesn’t love some glue stick action?). It’s a visual vibe check for your life. A snapshot of your dreams, your goals, and the dope future you’re manifesting for yourself. Before you roll your eyes and scroll away, let me tell you: I used to think this kind of thing was cheesy, too. But then life threw me a few curveballs—aging kids, health challenges, the whole “who even am I now?” existential spiral—and I realized I needed to reset my mindset. I needed something tangible to remind me what I was working toward, even when life felt messy. That’s where the vision board came in. And honestly? Game-changer. Why Vision Boards Work (Hint: It’s All About Mindset) Here’s the thing: your mind is a powerful tool. What you focus on, you bring into your life. Call it faith, call it energy, call it neuroscience—whatever works for you. But there’s something undeniable about seeing your dreams laid out in front of you every single day. It’s like giving your brain a little nudge that says, “Hey, this is what we’re aiming for. Let’s make it happen.” And listen, it’s not just about slapping some pictures on a board and waiting for the universe to deliver. A vision board works because it shifts your mindset. When you’re in a funk, staring at that board can remind you of the vibe you’re chasing. It’s not just about looking at what you want—it’s about becoming the kind of person who creates that life. For me, that means staying rooted in my faith. I believe God plants these dreams in our hearts for a reason. He doesn’t show us the whole map, but he gives us enough light for the next step. A vision board is like saying, “Okay, God, I see where You’re leading me, and I’m ready to do my part.” How to Make a Vision Board That’s Totally You First, let’s ditch the idea that there’s a “right” way to make a vision board. Your board should reflect you. Not some Instagram influencer or your friend who seems to have it all together (spoiler: no one does). Start by grabbing a corkboard, poster board, or whatever you’ve got lying around. You can even go digital if cutting up magazines isn’t your thing. I personally love a physical board—it feels more real when I can touch it, and I like the tactile experience of piecing it together. Next, gather your supplies: magazines, printed pictures, scissors, glue, markers—whatever inspires you. Then, set the vibe. Light a candle, throw on a playlist that hypes you up, and maybe pour a glass of wine (or tea, if you’re feeling wholesome). This isn’t just crafting; this is a whole moment. Now comes the fun part: think about what you want to create in your life. And I mean really think. Close your eyes for a minute and picture your dream day. Where are you? What are you doing? How do you feel? Things to Include on Your Vision Board Big Goals: Career moves, financial freedom, that dream vacation to Scotland (or is that just me?). Values and Mindset: Maybe it’s a quote that resonates or a word that captures the vibe you’re going for—like “peace,” “growth,” or “badassery” (yes, that’s a vibe). Faith and Spirituality: If your faith is a big part of your life, include something that reflects that—a Bible verse, a cross, or even a reminder to trust the process. Everyday Joys: Don’t just think big. Add the little things that light you up, like your morning coffee ritual, family movie nights, or your love of gardening. Once you’ve got all your pieces, start arranging them on your board. There’s no wrong way to do this—just let it flow. Your board should feel like a celebration of everything you’re dreaming about and everything you’re working toward. How to Keep the Vibe Alive Here’s where a lot of people mess up: they make a vision board, stick it in a closet, and forget about it. Don’t do that. Your vision board should be front and center—on your desk, your wall, wherever you’ll see it every day. And don’t be afraid to update it! Dreams evolve, and that’s okay. Maybe something you thought you wanted doesn’t feel right anymore, or maybe you’ve already crushed a goal (go you!). Add, take away, tweak—it’s your board. Final Thoughts Creating a vision board isn’t just about dreaming big; it’s about stepping into the mindset of someone who’s ready to make those dreams happen. It’s a way to remind yourself that you’re capable, you’re worthy, and you’re allowed to want more for your life. And for me, it’s a way to stay connected to my faith. It’s my way of saying, “God, I’m here. I see the seeds You’ve planted in my heart, and I’m ready to nurture them.” Because at the end of the day, the vision isn’t just mine—it’s His, too. So go ahead, grab those scissors, set the vibe, and start creating. Your future self will thank you. And who knows? This little board might just be the spark that lights the fire for your next chapter.

Reinvention isn’t something you plan for—it’s something life throws at you when you least expect it. For me, it came in waves. First, as my kids started growing up and becoming more independent, and then again as my own health began to decline. The mom I was ten years ago looks nothing like the woman I see in the mirror today, and honestly, I’m still getting to know her. When my kids were little, they were my entire world, and I loved it. I was the mom who made Halloween costumes from scratch, planned elaborate birthday parties, and found joy in the chaos of homework, playdates, and bedtime stories. I threw my whole heart into motherhood because, in those moments, it was all I ever wanted to be. But time has this funny way of sneaking up on you, and one day, I woke up and realized my kids didn’t need me the same way anymore. Kayla, my oldest, still lives at home, but she’s wonderfully independent in her routines. Matthew is off building a life with his girlfriend, Elisa, and Jack is navigating college and a part-time coaching job. The demands of parenting have shifted from diapers and temper tantrums to long talks about relationships, careers, and how to cook chicken without setting off the smoke alarm. I’m proud of who they’ve become, but their growing independence left me with a gaping question: Who am I now? Just as I was starting to figure that out, my health threw me another curveball. Living with degenerative disc disease, sciatica, and a syrinx at C7-T1 has been humbling, to say the least. I went from being able to juggle a million things at once to struggling just to get through a day without pain. It’s frustrating, especially for someone like me who thrives on creativity, energy, and spontaneity. There are days I mourn the woman I used to be—the one who could whip up an entire dinner party on a whim or spend hours crafting without needing to take a break. But I’ve also learned that mourning is part of the process. Reinvention starts with acknowledging what you’ve lost before you can figure out what’s next. For me, the “what’s next” has been about rediscovering pieces of myself that got tucked away while I was busy being everything for everyone else. I’ve thrown myself back into creative pursuits, like crafting and blogging, because they remind me of who I am at my core—a maker, a storyteller, a dreamer. I’m learning to appreciate small victories, like listing new products in my Etsy shop or writing a blog post that resonates with someone else’s journey. These might seem like tiny steps, but they’re monumental to me because they represent forward motion. Reinvention has also meant letting go of perfectionism. I’ll be honest, it’s not easy for someone who loves to have everything just right. But I’m learning that it’s okay to leave the dishes in the sink or take a day off when my body tells me I need rest. It’s okay to be vulnerable and admit when I need help—whether it’s asking David to take on more around the house or leaning on my kids for emotional support. They’ve seen me at my strongest, but I think it’s good for them to see me navigating the hard stuff, too. It shows them that life isn’t about never falling; it’s about getting back up, even if you have to do it differently than you did before. One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that reinvention doesn’t mean leaving the past behind. It’s about taking the best parts of who you were and weaving them into who you’re becoming. I’ll always be the mom who loves fiercely, even if my kids don’t need me to tie their shoes anymore. I’ll always be the woman who finds beauty in creativity, even if my hands don’t move as quickly as they used to. And I’ll always be the fighter who refuses to let hard times define her. If you’re in a season of reinvention, my advice is this: give yourself grace. Reinventing yourself is messy, emotional, and often uncomfortable. You’ll have days when you feel like you’re floundering, and that’s okay. The important thing is to keep moving, even if it’s just one small step at a time. Surround yourself with people who remind you of your strength, and don’t be afraid to rewrite the rules for what your life should look like. You’re allowed to change. You’re allowed to grow. And you’re allowed to thrive, even after hard times. These days, I’m still figuring it out. I don’t have all the answers, but I know this: I’m not done yet. There’s so much life left to live, and I plan to live it fully—even if it looks a little different than I imagined. Reinvention is an art, and like any masterpiece, it takes time. But I’m here for it, brush in hand, ready to paint the next chapter

Crafting is supposed to be fun! A chance to bring your creative ideas to life and make something Pinterest-worthy. I had one such dream: an oversized Valentine’s Day hot cocoa mug decoration, complete with fluffy whipped cream and marshmallows made from spray insulation foam. It was going to be adorable. Festive. Perfect. It was none of those things. What it was, however, was a disaster of epic proportions. Let me tell you how a seemingly innocent can of spray insulation foam turned my crafting dreams into a sticky, chaotic nightmare. Step 1: The Dream The plan was simple: take a big plastic container to act as the mug, top it with faux whipped cream made from spray insulation, paint it in cute Valentine’s colors, and call it a day. Easy, right? Spray insulation is supposed to expand, so I figured it would create that perfect, fluffy, over-the-top look I wanted. Little did I know, I was about to unleash a monster. Step 2: The Foamocalypse The trouble started the second I opened the can. Foam began oozing out before I even pulled the trigger. It was like the can was possessed. Still, I pressed on. When I actually started spraying, the foam didn’t come out in a controlled stream. Oh no. It exploded. It expanded faster than I could blink, spilling over the edges of my flower pot turned cocoa mug and taking on a life of its own. In a moment of panic, I thought I could just shape it with my hands. That was my first~ and worst mistake. If you’ve ever touched spray insulation, you already know. It doesn’t t come off. Not with soap. Not with water. Not with a prayer. My fingers were immediately coated in sticky, expanding foam, and I was officially part of the project. Step 3: The Chaos Escalates With foam spreading across the table and my fingers glued together, my dog decided to join the fun. She came over to investigate, only to get some foam stuck on her. Now I was chasing my foam-covered dog around the room with sticky hands while trying to avoid touching anything else. Picture a marshmallow monster chasing a dog it wasn’t pretty. And just when I thought things couldn’t get worse, I remembered: spray insulation keeps expanding. By the time I came back to the project later, the foam had doubled in size, spilling over the edges of my mug and onto the table like some kind of marshmallow horror movie. Step 4: The Aftermath (and My Hands:  Sad Fate) Step 4: The Aftermath (and My Hands’ Sad Fate) Here’s where things went from bad to worse. I thought, “At least I can wash this off.” Spoiler: you cannot. I tried everything—soap, nail polish remover, vegetable oil, the Pink Stuff, a magic eraser, a fingernail brush, the scrubby side of a sponge, and even Goo Gone. Nothing worked. NOTHING. I scrubbed so hard I’m pretty sure I took off my fingerprints, but the foam is still there. Yes, even now, days later, my fingers are sticky and covered in what feels like permanent foam armor. Stay tuned, because I’m planning a video to document my next attempt to remove the sticky foam from hell. At this point, it’s not about crafting anymore—it’s a battle for my dignity. What Did I Do Wrong?! I have so many questions. Did I shake the can too much? Not enough? Was I supposed to wear a hazmat suit? Should I have read the instructions? (Who does that?) Or should I have just avoided spray insulation entirely? If you’ve ever had a craft fail this bad—or worse—I need to hear about it. Please tell me I’m not alone in my suffering. And if you have any magic tips for removing this foam from my hands (and my soul), I’m all ears. Otherwise, I’m resigning myself to a life of sticky fingers and foam-stained memories. Until next time, keep crafting (but maybe avoid spray insulation). And if you don’t, at least wear gloves. TRUST ME.. Why does no one talk about this on Tik Tok or instagram?!  

How to Start a Book Club with Friends (and Actually Keep It Fun) So, you want to start a book club? Great idea! A book club is the perfect excuse to hang out with friends, drink wine (or coffee, or whatever fuels your literary spirit), and pretend you’re very sophisticated because you’re in a book club. It sounds dreamy, right? Except, starting one can be a little tricky if you’re not careful. I’ve seen book clubs that last years, and I’ve seen ones that crumble after one awkward meeting. Here’s how to avoid the pitfalls and create a club that’s as fun as it is enriching. Step 1: Find Your People (A Mix of Nerds and Ne’er-Do-Wells Works Best) The key to a good book club is balance. You want at least one person who will actually read the book so you don’t all sit around awkwardly discussing the blurb. But you also need a few people who are there for the snacks and the socializing. That’s where the magic happens—when bookworms and snack enthusiasts collide. My advice? Recruit your friends with a mix of interests. Got a friend who always has their nose in a book? Perfect. Add your hilarious buddy who barely read SparkNotes in high school but loves a good debate, and throw in someone who will inevitably pick a celebrity memoir as their suggestion. You’ll thank me later. Step 2: Set the Rules (But Keep Them Loose) Rules are important, but this isn’t a courtroom. Decide upfront how often you’ll meet, what kind of books you want to read, and whether you’ll be a serious book club or a “we’ll talk about the book for ten minutes and then gossip” book club. Spoiler alert: Most clubs become the latter. I recommend meeting once a month—it’s enough time to finish a book (even if you procrastinate and binge-read it the day before) but not so far apart that everyone forgets you exist. And don’t be afraid to mix genres! Read a novel one month, a thriller the next, and then something random, like a self-help book that everyone will pretend they totally finished. Step 3: Choose the Books (Carefully, My Friends) The wrong book can derail the whole club. Trust me, I’ve been there. You don’t want to pick something so dense that half the group skips it or so fluffy that everyone forgets it ten minutes after reading. And if someone suggests Ulysses, you have my permission to “accidentally” delete their message from the group chat. A good rule of thumb is to pick books that spark discussion. Think popular fiction, intriguing memoirs, or even those Reese Witherspoon book club picks that are practically designed to keep people talking. Bonus points if the book pairs well with wine or chocolate. Step 4: Bring Snacks (Because Snacks Are Non-Negotiable) Let me be clear: A book club without snacks is just a meeting. Snacks are what elevate this from “boring school assignment” to “the best part of my week.” And don’t overthink it. A cheese board, some cookies, maybe a bottle of wine—done. If you’re feeling extra fancy, you can theme the snacks to the book (like serving French pastries for a Paris-set novel), but let’s be real—Doritos work just fine. Step 5: Prepare for Chaos (Because Life Happens) Here’s the thing: Book clubs rarely go exactly as planned. Someone won’t finish the book (probably you). Someone else will have strong opinions about the ending and will argue about it passionately. And someone—always—will spoil the next month’s book before you’ve even started it. And that’s okay! Book clubs aren’t about perfection. They’re about connection. If you spend more time laughing over someone’s wild take on Chapter Five than discussing the author’s use of symbolism, you’re doing it right. Step 6: Embrace the Vibe (Whatever It Turns Into) Your book club will evolve, and that’s a good thing. Maybe you’ll read fewer books and spend more time catching up on life. Maybe you’ll start swapping recipes or planning group outings. Maybe you’ll spend an entire meeting debating whether Mr. Darcy is actually swoon-worthy (he is, obviously). The point is, let it grow naturally. The best book clubs aren’t just about books—they’re about friendships. And if you can create a space where people feel excited to gather, you’ve already won. Step 7: Don’t Stress (Seriously, Don’t) This isn’t rocket science. Starting a book club is supposed to be fun, not a source of stress. If you forget to read the book, just fake it with vague comments like, “I found the protagonist so relatable” or “I was really intrigued by the pacing.” No one will notice. At the end of the day, it’s not about how intellectual or organized your club is—it’s about spending time with people you love, talking about stories that make you think, laugh, or cry. And if all else fails, just make it a snack club that occasionally talks about books. You’ll still have a great time. So grab your friends, pick a book, and start your club. Who knows? It might just become the highlight of your month. And if it doesn’t, at least you got some good snacks out of it.