December 11th, 2023

Hey Sipsters! Rise and shine, it's Monday time! Grab that coffee and show the week who's boss!

So, Scotland picked the unicorn as its national animal! They went all the way back to Celtic stories where this magical creature stands for bravery, power, goodness, and a touch of innocence. Unicorns are basically their mascot now!

In today's email:

• News/Business: Festive fun at U.S. Naval Hospital Okinawa - epic tree lighting bash!
  
• Lifestyle: Tips to know you found your person!
• Health and Wellness: Holiday Health, we got you!
• Social Media and Creators: Be your best self with David de las Morenas
• Travel & Leisure: Need to escape the city life this winter?

The U.S. Naval Hospital Okinawa threw an awesome Tree Lighting Celebration at Camp Foster in Okinawa, Japan! Camp Foster is a US base in Okinawa.

The tree lighting ceremony was all about embracing different holiday traditions from around the world. Although there are many differences between the US and Okinawa, this tree lighting ceremony showed just how important these differences are - and they are what make the partnership between the US and Okinawa so meaningful.

At the festival, they had special guests such as the Mayor of Ginowan and the ambassador in charge of Okinawan Affairs. The Kubasaki High School Choir even sang carols, and there was a feast of food, games, and entertainment for all.

This event really showed how exciting it is when people from different cultures come together and celebrate as one. Okinawa’s has an amazing culture, and this celebration was a way for everyone, both Americans and locals, to enjoy and understand each other better. It's always great to see nations coming together as one to celebrate!

Read more here!

Ever wondered if your partner truly cares? This article spills the Tea on the subtle signs of affection, minus the mushy stuff! From listening to your daft ramblings to laughing at your terrible jokes (even when no one else does), it's all about those little quirks that show they've got your back.

Plus, if they make you tea just the way you like it or remember your weird dislike of runny egg yolks, you're in good hands! So if you spot some of these signs, you're partner could be head over heels for you!

A few of the signs we've noticed:

1. They hang on your every word

2. They include you in future plans

3. They remember the little things. Pro tip: If you ever hear your significant other talk about something they love or want, take note of it right then and there. It could be the perfect idea for future gifts!

Read the full article here

'Tis the season for chaos and joy! This article is like a Santa's list, but instead of toys, it's packed with tips to keep you healthy and happy during the festive holi-"daze". From sneaking in naps (just 20 minutes, folks!) to managing stress (meditate like your holiday happiness depends on it) and enjoying holiday goodies, this article has something that's sure to knock your stockings off!

And hey, don't forget to sneak in some exercise between shopping sprees and wrapping marathons! Oh, and there's a secret weapon: those immune-boosting vitamins to help you dodge the winter sniffles. So, here's to staying merry and bright this season!

Our favorites:

1. Get Your Sleep: Don't compromise your sleep during the holiday season. Stick to your routine! 7-9 hours are ideal. Let's keep ourselves happy and healthy!

2. Manage Your Stress: You bet your Christmas "Mass" that we're going to be crushing some de-stressing walks to admire the holiday lights.

Read the full article here

This weeks creator is (DRUM ROLL)... David de las Morenas

@howtobeast

David de las Morenas, a Boston-based personal trainer, certified strength coach, and bestselling author, transformed his life from insecurity to empowerment. He discovered weightlifting during college, gaining over 40 pounds of muscle and invaluable discipline.

Leaving his software engineering job, he pursued his passion for fitness, becoming a personal trainer and founding How to Beast, an ultimate guide to "get jacked" and "get confident". Through his website and content, he shares his journey, inspiring men to build confidence, muscles, and inner strength.

He is best known on social media for his tips on how to be a successful man.

Photo Credit: HowtoBeast.com

The Big Apple totally flips during the holidays, and while it's a blast, locals sometimes need a breather from all the tourist madness. Luckily, there are some awesome winter wonderlands nearby that are perfect for a getaway.

You've got Lake Placid for those thrill-seekers interested in Olympic sports, Kennebunkport in Maine for some coastal chill vibes, and the peaceful beauty of Litchfield County in Connecticut—all just a stone's throw away.

Feeling fancy? Rhinebeck, New York is where it's at. And if you're all about outdoor adventures, the Poconos in Pennsylvania won't disappoint.

For an artsy fix, check out the Lower Catskills, or soak in the pristine snowscape of Woodstock, Vermont. And let's not forget the Berkshires in Massachusetts—ski slopes and epic art scenes, each with its own special winter magic.

Check out the full article here!

Thanks for reading this week's edition! Stay tuned for what's in store next week.