An Easy Way to Inspire Family Time

The new year is upon us, and no doubt we all want to make it the best yet. A study concluded that in 2023, the average family only spent 6 hours all together a week, less than an hour a day. I don’t know about you — but I think we can do better than that. Whether it’s a New Year’s resolution or a desire you’ve had for a couple of months, seeking to share quality time with your family is a worthwhile endeavor, but where to start?

One of the biggest obstacles to family time is routine. When it’s not a part of your routine, it can be hard to find the time because it seems like all of your time is predisposed. There is always work and appointments and evening plans, and you can’t forget about time for self-care, but maybe that means you just need a shift in priorities.

"The mark of a great man is one who knows when to set aside the important things in order to accomplish the vital ones." - Brandon Sanderson

Your time is yours. Don’t let the world tell you how to spend it. Set aside an evening dedicated just to your family and spending time with them. It doesn’t have to be anything elaborate; just pick a good movie, make a fun popcorn flavor, get comfortable on the couch, and laugh together. Start this year with a shift in your priorities. Recognize who wants your time and who needs your time.

We want to do what we can to help you make this a reality and get excited about a family movie night, so we found the best popcorn recipe. After you make it, trust us, your family will be begging to do regular movie nights. Check out this recipe for Peanut Butter Popcorn! (adapted from thespruceeats.com)

Peanut Butter Popcorn 
Here's what you’ll need:

• 12 cups of popped Baby Yellow Amish Country Popcorn
• 1 1/2 cups of unsalted peanuts
• 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup of sugar
• 1 cup of honey
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract

Here's the instructions:
Step 1: Gather ingredients.

Step 2: In a large roasting pan or use two 9 x 13-inch pans, combine the popped popcorn and peanuts. Spread out in one even layer. Keep warm in a 250° F oven while preparing the other steps.

Step 3: Butter the bottom and sides of a heavy 1-1/2 quart saucepan.

Step 4: Combine the granulated sugar and honey in the pan. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly, and boil for 2 minutes.

Step 5: Remove the sugar mixture from the heat. Stir in the creamy peanut butter and vanilla extract.

Step 6: Remove the warm popcorn and peanut mixture from the oven and Immediately pour the peanut butter coating over the mixture. Stir to coat all of the popcorn completely.

Step 7: Pour the coated popcorn and peanut mixture onto baking sheets to cool completely. Separate and break into bite-sized pieces.

Step 8: (the best step): Enjoy!