DNI Winter Wonderland Insert

VO LU M E 8 , 2018

DAT E NI G H T IN

# DAT ENI G H T INB OX

Winter Wonderland D AT E N I G H T I N B O X

Y O U R D AT E WA S T H O U G H T F U L L Y A N D C A R E F U L L Y P A C K E D I N O U R O W N F A C I L I T Y B Y T R I - D E V E L O P M E N T C E N T E R O F A I K E N C O U N T Y.

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D AT E N I G H T I N B O X | W I N T E R W O N D E R L A N D

WELCOME TO YOUR

Winter Wonderland E X P E D I T O R’ S N OT E Dear Date Night In Box Seekers, Holiday Greetings to you and your significant other. If you are joining us for the first time, WELCOME and if you have been with us before for previous dates WELCOME BACK! Let’s be honest, the holiday season can be quite chaotic. Our holidays are always packed with the hustle and bustle of preparation. Shopping, traveling and holiday celebrations fill our calendar and there is not much time left for my husband and I to connect in meaningful ways.

I hope that through the epic Date Night In our team has prepared for you this month, you will find ease and comfort in checking out for a bit from the holiday chaos to reconnect with each other. We thank you from the bottom of our hearts for allowing us to come into your home to help make memories.

This date is going to feature a SERIOUSLY AMAZING PRIZE. Learn what’s up for grabs later on in this date… Additionally, as a tradition we give a FREE DATE to a couple who snaps a picture with each other while enjoying each month’s date.

Simply post to Instagram or Facebook using the hashtag #DateNightInBox and #DNIWinterWonderland.

If you were given this date as a gift we would LOVE for you to join us again.

We offer a variety of plans to fit your needs and even have a Kids Night In Box subscription. Simply visit www.nightinboxes.com and use code 15OFFNIB for a 15% OFF discount when you join us again.

Wishing you the warmest holiday cheer,

Megan Pruitt FOUNDER OF DATE NIGHT IN BOX

W I N T E R W O N D E R L A N D | D AT E N I G H T I N B O X

Date Night In Box

ERIENCE

D AT E A C T I V I T I E S

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SET THE MOOD

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COMPLIMENTARY DINNER MENU

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TABLE TALK

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WIN AN EPIC WINTER WONDERLAND VACATION

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SWEET TREAT WINTER WONDERLAND TREES

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WINTER WONDERLAND STRING ART

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WINTER WONDERLAND HEADBANDS

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CREATE A SENTIMENTAL GIFT

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WAYS TO CONTINUE YOUR DATE NIGHT

Set The Mood Take a moment to consider the space you’d like your date to take place tonight. Gather some of your holiday decor to make this space extra cozy. Part of your date will need to take place at a table, but the rest can be enjoyed from any comfortable spot in your home.

Grab your included winter themed Aromabeads and place in a central location for your date night. If you have a wax warmer on hand you can melt your Aromabeads as well.

To complete the mood don’t forget you can visit nightinboxes.com/music and hit play to enjoy your custom Winter Wonderland playlist.

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D AT E N I G H T I N B O X | W I N T E R W O N D E R L A N D

Complimentary Dinner Menu

THIS MONTH’S WINTER WONDERLAND DINNER MENU HAS BEEN THOUGHTFULLY PREPARED FOR YOU

BY OUR FRIEND & BLOGGER MARINA.

Hi, friends! I’m Marina from Marina Makes. Each year, I look

MARINAMAKESBLOG.COM

forward to the first snowfall. Watching the snow glide down from the sky brings me so much peace - it’s so beautiful and delicate. Of course, while watching the snow, I have to have a hot drink and warm meal on hand. Priorities!

This month’s menu includes some of my favorite winter staples to keep you and your taste buds warm: a hot toddy, creamy pancetta with sweet pea gnocchi, parmesan and garlic crostini and homemade peppermint pudding - each filled with so much flavor. I’d love to see how your food turns out, so please feel free to share pictures on social media; don’t forget to use the hashtag #marinamakeseats.

Happy eating!

TOOLS

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Spoons for stirring Glasses/mugs for drinks Shot glass Cutting board Serrated knife

HINT

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Pastry brush

If you can’t find diced pancetta, go

Large frying pan

to the deli at your grocery store and

Medium pot

ask them to slice the pancetta about

Whisk

a fourth-inch thick and dice it at

Small saucepan

home. Or, feel free to use prosciutto

Small ramekins

as a substitute. Cook full slices of

or serving bowls

prosciutto in a frying pan with a little

Small bowl

butter until crispy. You can dice it or

Baking sheet

break it apart once it’s cooled off.

Hot Toddy

P R E P T I M E : 5 M I N . T O TA L T I M E : 5 M I N .

Non-Alcoholic option available online at nightinboxes.com/recipes

INGREDIENTS

DIRECTIONS

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4 tsp. of lemon juice

In a glass, add 2 tsp. of lemon

2 tbs. of honey

juice, 1 tbs. of honey and a

Cinnamon

pinch of cinnamon, and stir

2 shots of bourbon

to combine. Add 1 shot of

Hot water

bourbon and then hot water.

(about 1 – 1 1/2 cups)

Garnish with a lemon slice and

Lemon slices

cinnamon stick. Repeat steps

Cinnamon sticks

with second glass.

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W I N T E R W O N D E R L A N D | D AT E N I G H T I N B O X

Parmesan & Garlic Crostini

PREP TIME: 5 MIN. T O TA L T I M E : 1 5 M I N .

INGREDIENTS

DIRECTIONS

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Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.

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Demi baguette (GF option: GF baguette)

Using a cutting board and serrated knife, cut the baguette into half inch

1/4 cup of extra virgin

slices. In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic and a couple

olive oil

pinches of salt.

1 small garlic clove, minced

Place the bread slices on a baking sheet. Using a pastry brush or spoon,

Salt 1/2 – 3/4 cup of shredded parmesan cheese

brush a small amount of the oil mixture onto the bread slices. Top with parmesan and bake in the oven for 7-10 minutes, or until cheese is melted.

Pancetta & Sweet Pea Gnocchi

PREP TIME: 10 MIN. T O TA L T I M E : 2 0 - 3 0 M I N .

INGREDIENTS

DIRECTIONS

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5 oz. of pancetta, diced

In a large frying pan, cook the pancetta until crispy and

(veg. option: leave out

cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the pancetta and

pancetta)

set aside, but leave the drippings in the pan.

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16-17 oz. package of gnocchi (GF option: GF

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pasta) 1 tbs. of butter 2 small garlic cloves, minced 1 1/2 cups of half and half 1 cup of shredded parmesan cheese (more

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for garnish) Salt

In a medium saucepan, bring water to a boil. Add a tablespoon of salt and stir to combine. Add the gnocchi to the saucepan and cook 1 minute less than instructed on the packaging.

Drain the gnocchi and set aside until the sauce is done.

While the gnocchi is cooking, make the sauce. In the same large frying pan used to cook the pancetta, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Add the half and half and increase the heat to medium-high. Bring the cream to boil for about 2 minutes, or until thickened.

Remove from heat and stir in the parmesan, and a few pinches of salt and pepper. Whisk until the cheese is melted.

Pepper 1/2 cup of frozen sweet

Add the pancetta, peas and gnocchi to the sauce, stirring to

peas, thawed

combine. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Fresh basil, chopped

Serve in dishes and top with parmesan and basil.

Homemade Peppermint Pudding

PREP TIME: 5-7 MIN. T O TA L T I M E : 2 H O U R S & 1 0 M I N .

INGREDIENTS

DIRECTIONS

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2 tbs. of cornstarch

In a small saucepan, whisk together the cornstarch,

1/2 cup of

sugar and a pinch of salt until combined. Slowly

granulated sugar

whisk in the heavy cream and milk. Cook the

Salt

mixture over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes

1 cup of heavy

until thickened.

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cream 1/2 cup of milk 1 tsp. of peppermint extract

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Remove from heat and stir in peppermint extract.

Place in ramekins or small serving bowls and chill in the refrigerator for two hours.

Enjoy Table Talk on the following page!

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D AT E N I G H T I N B O X | W I N T E R W O N D E R L A N D

Table Talk

WHILE YOU ARE ENJOYING YOUR D I N N E R W E H AV E PREPARED SOME DISCUSSION TOPICS FOR YOU AND YOUR SIGNIFICANT OTHER TO PONDER OVER.

There is a reason why we can find our favorite stores and coffee shops decked out for the holidays almost a whole two months before the big day. The holiday spirit brings with it all the anxiously awaited warm-fuzzy feelings. We fantasize about cozying up by a fire with a hot cup of cocoa, surrounded by everyone we love. In this version, everything is merry and bright. Schedules align, our casserole is a hit, and we never deploy our safe word to escape the scene.

Each year we joyously set new expectations for the holidays. Like a snowflake, our story will be carefully woven together with each person we encounter this holiday season. Let’s talk about some ways that we can be intentional as we continue to weave together sweet memories.

PERFECT PICTURE OR CANDID SNAPSHOT A candid snapshot may not be a picture out of a magazine, but it will be a beautiful memory to hold on to; full of love and laughter. When plans aren’t lining up perfectly, try to ask yourself “Which photo would I rather hang on my wall?”

TURN TO EACH OTHER AND ASK THE FOLLOWING QUESTIONS. Do you tend to get caught up trying to create a perfectly posed moment rather than enjoying the moment?

If so, how can we stay in the moment?

Can you recall a recent experience that didn’t unfold as planned, but brought laughter and lasting memories? Did you snap a pic? What made the moment special? How did this moment deepen our connection?

H I T PAU S E Don’t let your holiday spirit roll down-hill simply because you aren’t taking a moment to hit pause. If your attitude isn’t reflecting a spirit of joy and thanksgiving, take a moment (or several) for yourselves and remind each other of your many blessings.

Take a moment to discuss how you will help each other navigate through the holiday chaos. Through your solid foundation, this holiday season will be another filled with laughter and lasting memories.

What are your biggest stressors in regards to the upcoming holidays?

How can I support you

through this holiday season?

A S N O W B A L L O F G R AT I T U D E Sometimes all it takes to lift your spirit and the spirits of those around you is to spread a little gratitude. Go out of your way to say thanks. It may not always be easy to do, but, it is always worth it.

Take time to make a list of who comes to mind and how you might show them gratitude in special ways. Now discuss how you can work together to show gratitude to the important people in your life.

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W I N T E R W O N D E R L A N D | D AT E N I G H T I N B O X

Win an Epic Winter Wonderland Vacation FOLLOW THE STEPS BELOW FOR A CHANCE TO WIN A TRIP TO A

A 4 DAY / 3 - N I G H T S TAY AT A C O P P E R M O U N TA I N R E S O RT AIRFARE FOR 2* * C A P P E D AT $ 5 0 0 PER TICKET

C O P P E R M O U N TA I N

R E S O RT I N C O L O R A D O .

How to win big (like, really big)!

SNAP!

SHARE!

DEADLINE

Photo or video (bonus

On Instagram, Facebook,

All entries must be

points if your box makes

or YouTube using

posted by 11:59 PM EST

it in the photo or video)

@datenightinbox and

on 01|16|19.

showing off your three

hashtags #DateNightInBox,

favorite moments from

#DNIWinterWonderland,

your Winter Wonderland

#NightInBoxes

Date Night In Box.

No purchase necessary to enter to win. Sponsored by Night In Boxes. All participants must be the age of majority in their state, province, or territory of residence in the United States. Voided where prohibited. 1 prize will be awarded. Odds of winning depend on the number of eligible entries received. Redemption restrictions apply. Additional terms, conditions, and restrictions apply.

WINNER WILL BE ANNOUNCED ON FEBRUARY 1, 2019 ON DATE NIGHT IN’S FACEBOOK PAGE.

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D AT E N I G H T I N B O X | W I N T E R W O N D E R L A N D

Sweet Treat

USE WHITE

For

C H O C O L AT E

nutritional

DRIZZLE AND

facts

SNOWFLAKE

please

SPRINKLES

visit our

T O C R E AT E

website

YOUR WINTER

datenightinbox

WONDERLAND

.com/winter

TREES

-wonderland

Supplies Needed INCLUDED

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White Chocolate Drizzlers/ Candy Wafers Bag of Pretzels Sprinkles

FROM YOUR KITCHEN

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Baking Sheet Parchment paper, wax paper or a plastic plate.

Winter String Supplies Needed INCLUDED TOOLS TO GATHER

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Hammer Wood square Embroidery thread Pack of nails Template card

Guided Instructions Visit lindsaysartcart

Instructions

watch the video with

1.

Place candy wafers in microwave-safe

for your ease and

bowl. Microwave for 30 seconds at half

enjoyment! Work as a

power or on defrost setting. Stir. Wafers will

team to complete your

not change shape while melting unless stirred.

string art and take turns

Repeat until wafers are completely melted.

swapping roles. We have

2.

Arrange the pretzel sticks on a baking sheet covered with parchment paper or wax paper. A plastic plate will work as well.

3.

Drizzle the melted chocolate, starting halfway

.com/datenightin to guided instructions

also included guided questions in the video for you to discuss while you are busy completing your art.

up the pretzel stick to make the base of the tree and gradually narrowing as you reach the top of the pretzel to form a peak. Feel free to use pictures here as a guide!

4.

Before the chocolate hardens, sprinkle each tree with your snowflake sprinkles.

5.

Refrigerate the tray briefly to set the chocolate.

IF YOU WANT TO KICK IT UP A NOTCH, YOU CAN STAIN OR PAINT YOUR WOOD BEFORE STARTING.

W I N T E R W O N D E R L A N D | D AT E N I G H T I N B O X

Wonderland Art

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N E X T, Y O U W I L L C R E AT E H O L I D AY T H E M E D S T R I N G A RT W I T H OUR FRIEND L I N D S AY F RO M L I N D S AY ’ S A RT C A RT.

LINDSAYSARTCART.COM

Guided instructions provided by Lindsay from Lindsay’s Art Cart.

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D AT E N I G H T I N B O X | W I N T E R W O N D E R L A N D

Headbands Game

GET READY FOR SOME

ROUND ONE

L AU G H S W H I L E YO U P L AY

Holiday people, places

WINTER WONDERLAND H E A D B A N D S . W E H AV E PREPARED THREE RO U N D S O F P L AY F O R YOU WITH A FINAL CUSTOMIZABLE ROUND INCLUDED.

and things.

ROUND TWO Popular winter music and movies.

ROUND THREE Blank cards to write your own winter time favorites.

HERE ARE SOME EXAMPLES IF YOU NEED A LITTLE INSPIRATION FOR ROUND THREE...Favorite Holiday Meal, Gift You Want, Dream Winter Destination, Favorite Holiday Song, Holiday Dream, Favorite Winter Sport, Favorite Holiday Movie, Favorite Childhood Memory, Favorite Holiday Memory

Supplies Needed

How to Play

INCLUDED

1.

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Shuffle the first round of cards and place them on a

Elastic headbands

stack face down in the middle

Game Cards

of the table.

2.

During this game you will have three rounds of play. Your final round will be customizable. Split the cards from your last round and keep your answers private from your significant other. ;)

3.

Each player selects a card from the stack and tucks it into their elastic headband (facing outwards) without looking at it. Now you can see which card your significant other has, but not your own.

4.

Play a quick game of rock, paper, scissors to decide who will begin the game.

5.

The person who wins will begin the game by asking their partner a yes or no question in an attempt to guess what is on their card. Once a question has been answered, it’s your partners turn to ask. Continue asking questions.

-6.

Example: Am I a person? Am I an animal? Am I a song?

When a player feels confident that they can identify their card, they can use their turn to guess their card.

The first person to correctly identify the card on their head is the winner.

7.

Once you’ve correctly guessed your card, grab a new card from the pile. Once all cards have been guessed, start a new round. Don’t forget to customize your blank cards on your final round of play!

W I N T E R W O N D E R L A N D | D AT E N I G H T I N B O X

Create a Sentimental Gift A N O T E F RO M M E G A N P RU I T T, F O U N D E R O F D AT E N I G H T I N …

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Continue your night WAY S T O CONTINUE YOUR

Dear Date Night In Seekers, A few years ago, I received a holiday gift from my husband Brian that touched my heart. It was completely unexpected, lacked a

WINTER WONDERLAND D AT E N I G H T

price tag and was so wonderful.

It was a simple letter, with sentiments from his heart. The first thing I did after I received his gift was tuck it away in our holiday decorations bin. Each year I can re-read it and start the season off on a sentimental note with a focus on what it is truly about.

To end your date, in honor of my husband’s sweet message and more importantly, to focus on what really matters this holiday season, we have included two blank cards in this box for you to write a note to your significant other.

Together, you can decide when the special moment should be to receive each other’s letters. Whether it be tonight, or when holiday planning becomes overwhelming. Find that right time and

Enjoy!

MOVIE SUGGESTIONS

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The Family Stone Narnia Planes, Trains, Automobiles Home for the Holidays Love Actually The Preacher’s Wife The Holiday Bridget Jones’ Diary Four Christmases

DOWNLOADABLE DATE ACTIVITIES

Visit datenightinbox.com/ winter-wonderland for two more complimentary date night activities.

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Winter Wonderland Would ‘Ya Tune or Tale

Share the Love! @ D AT E N I G H T I N B O X # D AT E N I G H T I N B O X # D N I W I N T E RW O N D E R L A N D

Y O U R D AT E WA S T H O U G H T F U L L Y A N D C A R E F U L L Y P A C K E D I N O U R O W N F A C I L I T Y B Y T R I - D E V E L O P M E N T C E N T E R O F A I K E N C O U N T Y.