Have there been inexplicable changes in the water pressure or quality in your residence? If so, you might need to get your water line replaced. Do you want to know if a water line replacement is necessary? What options are available to complete this task and what is difference between traditional and trenchless water line replacement? And what can you do if replacing your water lines is too expensive?
Continue reading to find the answers you need to these critical questions.
What you need to know about water pipes
Prior to discussing water line failure symptoms, it’s essential to learn more about the lines themselves. Up until a relatively short while ago, most residential water piping was constructed out of copper or galvanized steel. Whether or not you require a water line replacement will depend on what kind of piping is in your home. Continue reading to learn more about these two kinds of pipes.
Galvanized steel piping
Untreated steel is vulnerable to corrosion. That’s why it needs to be galvanized before using it for water piping. The galvanization process is done by coating the pipe with zinc courtesy of electrolysis, a chemical process. But as the zinc layer wears away over time, the now-exposed pipe will start deteriorating. Galvanized water pipes don’t usually last as long as copper pipes.
Copper piping
Copper has corrosion-resistant properties naturally. In other words, it doesn’t need to be treated like steel piping. In the late 1930s, home builders started using copper piping for water lines. Copper is durable, so many of these copper water lines are still in good shape. As a result, it’s unlikely you’ll need to pursue a repiping project if your home is equipped with copper water lines. If leaks are discovered, a plumber can usually fix these issues relatively easily.
Signs you need water line replacement
As was mentioned previously, galvanized steel water lines are more likely to need replacement than copper water lines. However, knowing if a water line replacement is required isn’t as cut and dried as it might appear. But there are some ways you can come up with the answers you need:
1) Low water pressure whenever you use water fixtures in your residence.
Symptoms are not always evident throughout a home. Sometimes they can be apparent only in a specific area, like in the kitchen or bathroom. In all instances, however, the symptoms will be evident in multiple fixtures. That means that a single fixture giving you issues may result from a plugged aerator.
2) Regular instances of leaks
While even a single leak needs to be taken seriously and fixed quickly, such a scenario doesn’t mean you need a repiping project. If you have multiple leaks from galvanized steel water pipes, that’s a telltale sign repiping might be needed.
3) The water is an orange colour or there are pieces of orange chunks in the water.
If you notice any of these symptoms, that’s proof positive that your galvanized steel water lines are disintegrating. You’ll want to call a licensed plumber to inspect your water lines and recommend a course of action.
Different water line replacement options
There are three basic options for replacing residential water lines, namely copper, PEX, or CPVC.
Copper
Copper is the top water piping option for residential applications. It’s a reliable alternative to galvanized and plastic pipes. This means copper water piping holds up well against leaks, doesn’t pollute the water, and will last a long time.
PEX
PEX is constructed from crosslinked polyethylene. So, PEX is not only stronger, but also more flexible than regular plastic. Unlike copper pipes are soldered together, PEX pipes are not. They are, instead, connected using compression fittings that are put in place via clamping equipment.
CPVC
CPVC piping is a solid plastic product. Its fittings are connected using glue.
Drawbacks of plastic water piping compared to copper water piping
Rodents enjoy chewing on plastic. If you install plastic water lines, make every effort to keep rodents outside your home. Calling a pest control company for seasonal pest control service is a good idea. Avoid installing plastic piping if you live in a rural region with a critical mass of rodents.
PEX and CPVC water lines have small inner diameters, which could create difficulties. The plumber must use larger water lines to achieve the same desired water flow capacity.
Even rigid and durable plastic piping, like PEX, isn’t as damage-resistant as copper. If you grab a piece of copper pipe and pull on it, the copper pipe will bend. But doing the same thing to a plastic pipe will cause it to break.
Other things about water line replacement you need to know about.
Traditional option
The traditional water line replacement option requires using a backhoe to dig a trench down to the level of the pipes. It’s a highly invasive process that not only involves excavating your property, but also ripping out porches, sidewalks, and walkways. It can cost a small fortune to replace these things.
Trenchless option
The modern way, which is the better way, is a trenchless water line replacement. Instead of digging massive trenches, licensed plumbers dig a relatively small hole down to the pipe instead of digging huge trenches. By so doing, plumbers can cut into the damaged water line for a repair or replacement using a liner or new pipe. One of the first things you’ll notice is that the trenchless pipe repair option might appear costlier than the traditional water line replacement option. But there are several reasons why the trenchless option is superior. For one thing, you won’t have to hire a landscaper or contractor to repair the damage caused by the traditional method. The trenchless option is also faster and as reliable as the traditional option.
If you’re a homeowner, you can’t ignore any plumbing system issues. Failing to fix problems promptly can lead to more significant and more expensive problems down the road. You could seek your utility bill spike if you have leaks in your water line. You could also experience water flow problems and costly damage. When you find the right plumber, you’ll get access to pipe replacement and other plumbing services.
Finding toys that my active youngster can play with and learn from is a constant struggle. B. Toys wants to help make this task easier for parents to accomplish with their range of toys for little ones, from newborns to those starting school.
My family was asked by B. Toys if my son could play with some of their toys to see if the bridge between educating and enjoying toys could be met. We were happy to see how much fun and learning he would experience with the items we received.
Who are B. Toys?
B. Toys want to inspire a child’s individuality by being playful and educational. They also want kids to enjoy their experience with their toys, whether it leads to be curious, happy, or adventurous because they want kids to B. exactly who they want to B.
“B. toys’ new and improved official website, classifies its wide range of toys into 9 categories: Classics, Pretend Play, Vehicles, Soft Toys, Active Play, Musical Toys, Bath Toys, Wooden Toys, STEM & Creative Learning Toys, and Summer/Outdoors Toys. Beyond shopping by age, shopping by category helps identify the best-suited toy(s) for your little one!”
B. Toys Review
I was excited to receive all the fun items from B. Toys. I must let you know that, at the time of this review, my son was about 16 months-old and that all the toys I reviewed are recommended for children aged 18 months – 3 years-old.
The Toulouse-Lap Trec Magnetic Drawing Board allows children to express their creativity wherever they go! This sketch board includes a magnetic pencil and four animal stamps (a bunny, dog, cat, and duck). This drawing board is recommended for children 18 months +.
This drawing board was a hit the moment I took it out of its packaging for my son! He quickly took the magnetic pencil out of its holder and started scribbling up a storm along its surface. He then began to get creative by using the animal stamps. His go-to stamp was the bunny. When on the move around our home, he takes it with him to continue his artwork.
I love how simple yet fun this toy is. The learning curve to using this board is a simple one. A child can draw whatever they like, then simply wipe it away by pushing the bar up or down the board. My son didn’t need much instruction before mastering this product. It is also great that the stamps can be put back into place easily when they are no longer needed.
Hi! Phone Toy Smartphone – Sliver Review
The Hi! Phone Toy Smartphone in Silver from B. Toys allows for kids to have fun-on-the-go. Kids can press the buttons to hear numbers 0 through 9, record messages and have them played back to them, and listen to four fun songs. This toy cellphone is recommended for children 18 months +.
We could not wait to give our son this toy! He is always trying to play with our smartphones if they are in reach, and now he has one of his own. It was fun to see the phone light up whenever he pressed the phone’s number buttons. The Record function is a mode that my son is not able to do on his own yet but is fun to use! My older children and I love recording messages and playing them back for our little one to hear.
My little guy was also able to figure out how to use the Music mode that plays different types of music for a few seconds at a time. He liked trying to cycle through to hear them all over and over again. Finally, this phone’s Voice Mail button is really cute. When pressed, it shares a few pre-recorded messages. Our favourite one is, “I just wanted to tell you that you’re the bee’s knees!”
One area that some parents may take issue with this toy is one of the messages on the Answer button. The third message in the cycle says, “Hi there, Cutie Pie!” Some people may be offended by this statement being said to their child. This term was originally meant to be a term of endearment, but there may be some people who feel differently to having their child hear this message or use this statement to another child.
Another minor issue we had with this phone is that the volume for this toy is low. The volume is pre-set at one level. It was hard to hear what was being played for our son unless you held the phone close to your body. I understand that having the volume loud may hurt a child’s delicate ears, but I feel that the volume could be set a bit higher.
Mini Maestro Wooden Toy Piano Review
The Mini Maestro Wooden Toy Piano is a colourful toy that features 25 (two octaves) and a Music button that plays classical compositions. This instrument includes an illustrated songbook featuring six songs for young musicians to learn and play. This mini piano is recommended for children 3 years+.
My little guy is into playing instruments, so when he saw this toy piano, he went straight to work on his first musical piece. The keys are small enough for my tike’s little hands, yet big enough for us to try as well. My guy was able to slide himself underneath the keyboard and explore each key as he pressed each of them.
Even though my son is too young to read, we loved being able to read the notes and play as well. The Music button was also fun to press. My guy loves trying to play along with some of the songs played when this function was enacted.
The minor issue I had with this toy is opposite to the one I had to the Hi! Phone. I feel the volume is set too loud. This toy is, again, pre-set at this level. I would prefer if there was a way to make the volume higher or lower.
Our Overall Thoughts on B. Toys
Overall, we loved all the toys B. Toys shared with us! Each toy allowed for my son to learn while having fun. My little one was also able to use his imagination with these toys and enjoy the journey they led him on. We also enjoyed going some of these journeys with him. Most of the toys were easy for my guy to use on his own without much instruction. Our biggest issues came from the lack of volume control for the HI! Phone and the Mini Maestro Wooden Toy Piano. If each of these items had a volume control button, it would have raised the level of fun we experienced. Without a doubt, we are excited to find more playtime ideas from B. Toys for our little guy in the future!
Las Vegas is a bustling city filled with excitement, entertainment, and endless opportunities to have fun. However, with so many people and so much going on, it’s important to be mindful of your safety while visiting.
Whether you’re a first-time traveler or a seasoned visitor, this article provides valuable information and tips for staying safe in Sin City. From protecting yourself from the heat to navigating the city and managing your money, this guide has you covered. Read on to learn what you need to know to have a memorable and safe trip to Las Vegas.
1- Budgeting and Spending Limits
Las Vegas is known for its over-the-top experiences and endless opportunities for spending, but it’s important to be mindful of your budget and spending limits. The city can quickly add up, with high-priced drinks, dining, entertainment, and shopping options everywhere you turn. To avoid overspending and financial stress, consider setting a budget for your trip and sticking to it.
Make a list of the must-do activities and experiences you want to have and allocate funds accordingly. Also, consider using a credit card that offers rewards or cash back to help offset the costs. And if you’re looking to save on show tickets, don’t worry, we’ve got a guide for that.
2- Dealing with Crowds and Lines
Las Vegas is a popular tourist destination, and as a result, crowds and lines can be a common issue. From waiting in line for popular attractions to navigating busy casino floors, it’s important to be prepared and plan accordingly. Consider visiting popular attractions during off-peak hours, using express lines or fast passes, or booking reservations in advance to reduce wait times. It’s also a good idea to pack patience, stay hydrated, and take breaks when needed to avoid feeling overwhelmed by the crowds.
3- Staying Safe on The Strip
The Strip is one of the most famous tourist destinations in the world, but it’s also a busy and sometimes hectic place. To stay safe while exploring the Strip, consider traveling with a group, staying aware of your surroundings, and avoiding walking alone at night. Be mindful of pickpockets and other potential thieves, and keep valuables securely stored. It’s also a good idea to familiarize yourself with the location of police stations, hospitals, and other emergency services in case of an emergency.
4- Avoiding Scams and Con Artists
SinCity is full of opportunities for excitement and adventure, but it’s also home to a variety of scams and con artists looking to take advantage of tourists. To protect yourself from scams, be wary of anyone offering unsolicited deals, services, or products. Avoid providing personal information or payment to anyone who approaches you, and never hand over money or valuables without verifying the legitimacy of the offer. If you’re unsure of a situation or feel uncomfortable, trust your instincts and walk away.
5- Being Mindful of Drinking and Substance Use
Las Vegas is known for its vibrant nightlife and unlimited options for drinking and partying, but it’s important to be mindful of your alcohol and substance use while in the city. To avoid overindulging, consider pacing yourself and drinking plenty of water throughout the night. Avoid drinking and driving, and consider using a rideshare service or taxi to get around safely. It’s also important to be aware of the dangers of illegal substances and to avoid any involvement with them while in Las Vegas.
6- Protecting Yourself From The Heat
Vegas is located in the Mojave Desert, and as a result, temperatures can get extremely hot, particularly during the summer months. To protect yourself from the heat, be sure to stay hydrated, wear lightweight and breathable clothing, and apply plenty of sunscreen. Consider scheduling outdoor activities for cooler times of the day, and avoid overexerting yourself in the heat. If you start to feel overheated, seek shade and rest, and don’t hesitate to seek medical attention if necessary.
7- Navigating the City and Finding Your Way
Las Vegas is a sprawling city with a complex network of roads, casinos, and attractions, making it easy to get lost or disoriented. To navigate the city and find your way, consider using a map, GPS, or navigation app to plan your route in advance. Be sure to check in with hotel or casino staff if you need assistance, and consider carrying a charged cell phone with you at all times in case of an emergency. And for more comprehensive Las Vegas travel tips, be sure to check out our comprehensive guide to help make your trip as smooth and enjoyable as possible.
8- Protecting Yourself From Illness
It’s important to take steps to protect yourself from illness while visiting. To avoid getting sick, be sure to practice good hygiene, such as washing your hands frequently and avoiding close contact with others who are sick. Consider bringing any necessary medications with you, and be mindful of food safety, especially if you’re eating at street vendors or other locations with questionable hygiene. If you do get sick, seek medical attention promptly and take any necessary steps to protect others and prevent the spread of illness.
Conclusion
Las Vegas can be a lot of fun, but it’s important to be mindful of your safety and well-being while visiting. By being aware of potential dangers and taking steps to protect yourself, you can enjoy your time in the city and make memories to last a lifetime.
A lot of people believe that life is a game of choices. Some decisions are small and insignificant, while others leave lasting consequences. You can never predict with 100% certainty what your choice can lead to.
Such is the story of substance abuse. The choice to indulge in them can be the result of complex factors such as a need to forget traumatic memories of abuse or something as simple as “Boredom.”
Before we look at the ways you can protect your teen, it is important to understand what the term “Substance Abuse” even means. The American Psychological Association defines substance abuse as
“A pattern of compulsive substance use.” which usually involves repeated negative side effects or consequences in different areas of life, such as absences from work or school, legal issues, and marital problems.
The APA goes on to state that these substances commonly include:
Alcohol
Amphetamines
Anxiolytics
Cannabis
Cocaine
Hypnotics
Hallucinogens
Inhalants
Opioids
Phencyclidines
Sedatives
Statistics tell us that illicit drugs were taken by 11% of eighth graders and 32.6% of twelfth graders. Such a number implies that even if your child does not engage in substance abuse, he or she is quite likely to be friends with or hang out with someone who does.
The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) mentions “Association with delinquent or substance-using peers” as one of ten risk factors for high-risk substance use.
It is imperative that, as parents, you are knowledgeable about the different aspects of substance abuse and why it occurs and be able to assess the risk factors in your child’s life and environment.
Why Are Teenagers So Prone to Getting Addicted?
Teenagers are more susceptible to addiction because their brains are still developing. The brain’s reward system, which is responsible for regulating feelings of pleasure and motivation, is particularly sensitive during adolescence.
This means that when teenagers use drugs or alcohol, they experience a stronger high than adults do, which can lead to a greater risk of addiction. The prefrontal cortex, which is responsible for decision-making and impulse control, is not fully developed until a person’s mid-20s. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, you can find an AA Meeting for support and guidance on the path to recovery.
As a result, teenagers may be more likely to engage in risky behavior and less able to resist the urge to use drugs or alcohol. Furthermore, the stress of social pressure, academic pressure and other stressors that are specific to adolescence can also make teens more susceptible to the cycle of addiction.
How Does Substance Abuse Affect Teenagers?
Drug addiction is a serious problem among teenagers. It is a chronic disease that affects the brain’s reward system, leading to compulsive drug use despite the negative consequences.
Teenagers often have access to some of the most addictive drugs in shockingly easy ways. They are most often obtained from friends and classmates who use drugs themselves or know contacts that sell them.
Teenagers are also able to obtain street drugs from dealers in their community, some of which can have serious side effects on the brain.
The internet also has made it easier for teenagers to access drugs by providing a way to purchase drugs online anonymously.
Many websites sell drugs, including illegal drugs, and they use various methods to evade law enforcement. These methods include using encrypted messaging apps, virtual currencies and shipping drugs through the mail.
Physical Consequences
Substance abuse can take a toll on the body and can either manifest through immediate side effects or show up later on in life with higher risk and susceptibility for a number of conditions.
Short-Term Physical Consequences
Long-Term Physical Consequences
Slurred speech
Kidney and Liver damage
Dizziness or lightheadedness
Respiratory problems
Nausea or vomiting
Increased risk of cancer
Loss of coordination
Brain damage
Impaired judgment and reaction time
Depression and anxiety
Changes in mood or behavior
Increased risk of addiction
Psychological Consequences
Substance abuse can also have significant short-term and long-term psychological consequences in teenagers. Some of these effects can be extremely distressing and make it difficult for them to function in life. This leads to feelings of isolation that further send them on toward more substance abuse causing a cycle of addiction.
Short-Term Psychological Consequences
Long-Term Psychological Consequences
Mood swings, irritability and aggression
Dysfunctional relationships
Poor judgment and decision-making
Cognitive impairment
Difficulty in concentrating on school or hobbies
Increased risk of suicidal behavior
Loss of interest in usual activities
Impaired social development
Disruption of sleep patterns
Increased risk of legal problems
The Five Ways to Minimize Your Teen’s Risk of Addiction
Prevention and treatment of drug addiction in teenagers include educating them about the dangers of drug use, providing support and guidance and encouraging healthy activities or hobbies.
The feeling of not being able to protect your son or daughter can eat away at you with every passing day, but it does not have to be this way. There are several steps you can take to greatly lower the risk of substance abuse in them. Here are five of them.
1. Prioritize Educating About the Dangers as Early as Possible
The first step in reducing substance abuse risk is to connect with your teenager and educate them about the dangers of substance as early as possible. Education in this context does not mean simply telling them, “Don’t do drugs.”
That is rarely effective. Instead, you want to paint a clear picture, preferably with real-world examples such as a relative, friend or acquaintance whose life has been seriously impacted by substance abuse and where the consequences are clearly visible.
This is often far more effective than using abstract terms like “They are bad for you”.
Sharon Levy, associate professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School, mentions five useful tips to keep in mind when talking about drugs to your teen.
2. Watch Out for the Warning Signs
Even if teens are educated on the dangers of substance abuse, it is no guarantee that they will abstain. There are two main types of signs that you should watch out for. At Risk of Substance Abuse and Engaging in Substance Abuse.
At Risk of Substance Abuse
Engaging in Substance Abuse
Expressing curiosity or interest in drugs or alcohol
Drastic changes in mood or behavior
Changes in attitude toward drugs or alcohol
Changes in physical appearances, such as weight loss and grooming habits
Risk-taking behavior, such as sneaking out of the house or breaking the rules
A Sudden drop in grades or absenteeism
Isolation and secrecy
Possession of drug paraphernalia such as pipes, rolling papers, or syringes
Withdrawal from activities they used to enjoy, or loss of interest in them
Disruption of sleep patterns, such as insomnia or staying up late
Finding ways to spend more time unsupervised
Change in appetite
2. Familiarize Them With the Different Ways That Peer Pressure Occurs
Peer pressure is one of the biggest risk factors that lead to substance abuse in teenagers. Talk with your adolescent or teen about the different ways that peer pressure manifests itself. It is not always so obvious as a circle of friends shoving a beer or a joint into your teen’s hand while yelling, “Do it!, Do it!”
Peer pressure can often be subtle and invisible while still influencing your teen greatly. Here are some examples.
Direct pressure: This is the most obvious one, of course. Peers may directly pressure a teenager to use drugs or alcohol by making offers, giving them drugs, or making fun of them for not using.
Indirect pressure: Peers may indirectly pressure a teenager by talking about their own drug or alcohol use or by making it seem normal or acceptable.
Social pressure: This often occurs when a group of friends exclude or isolate a person who does not use drugs or alcohol.
Normative influence: Peers may influence a person to use drugs or alcohol by making them believe that it is the norm or expected of them to do so. That not engaging in it is outdated and uncool.
Social learning: Peers may influence a teenager to use drugs or alcohol by teaching them how to obtain and use drugs.
Social identity: Peers may influence a teenager to use drugs or alcohol by aligning drug use with social identities, like being part of a cool group.
Online pressure: With the rise of social media, teenagers may be exposed to peer pressure through online platforms, where people may post about their drug use or make it seem glamorous.
3. Don’t Be a Helicopter Parent
This is a term used to describe a parent who is overly involved in their child’s life and constantly monitoring and controlling their behavior. Such a parenting style can feel suffocating and claustrophobic and even cause the teen to engage in substance abuse in an act of rebellion.
Being a helicopter parent can also create a sense of dependency and can make it difficult for your teen to develop the skills and confidence needed to make positive decisions and resist peer pressure.
It also leads to a lack of trust, which may cause them to seek other people to confide in and seek advice from.
4. Be a Good Role Model for Them and Set a Good Example
As a parent, you are often the first role model in your child’s life. Their actions and attitudes toward drugs and alcohol can have a significant impact on a teenager.
By setting a good example and fostering a positive environment during childhood, parents can play a key role in preventing the risk of substance abuse later on in the teenage years.
Being a good role model can be difficult. This is especially true when you have emotional baggage that you are still dealing with. However, as a parent, you want to ensure that your number one priority is being a person that your kids are able to look up to you.
For parents, this means maintaining a healthy lifestyle and avoiding drugs and alcohol themselves. Parents who wax endlessly about their dangers while also living lives of poor self-control create an air of hypocrisy that teens will pick up on and resent, undoing much of the effort they have put in.
5. Pay Attention and Listen Actively
Lastly, but most importantly, parents can build trust and establish open communication, which is vital to preventing substance abuse by actively listening to their teenager and taking their thoughts and feelings into consideration.
When teenagers feel heard and understood, they are more likely to open up and share their thoughts and feelings with their parents. This open communication can help parents to understand the reasons why their child may be at risk of substance abuse and find ways to address the underlying issues.
Being a supportive figure can be one of the most cathartic experiences for your son or daughter. If they express that they have been feeling depressed, try to learn more about how you can support or help them in their recovery from their depression. This could involve something as simple as listening or also involve arranging for therapy.
Listening to your teenager can help you to understand the pressures and influences they may be facing, such as peer pressure. By understanding these pressures, parents can better equip their children with the tools and skills they need to resist them and make positive decisions.
Conclusion
To sum it up, substance abuse among teenagers is a serious issue that can have significant consequences on their physical, mental and psychological well-being.
Parents, teachers and other adults play an important role in reducing the risks of substance abuse by being aware of the warning signs, providing education and setting a good example.
Conveying the serious consequences that drugs and other substances create, both in the short-term and long-term, is crucial, as early intervention is often the most effective way to minimize substance abuse risks.
This is achieved through constant vigilance and watching for any warning signs, all without being domineering and suffocating.
As you can imagine, these aspects make the period of substance abuse risk prevention one of the most challenging periods that parents can go through. If you ever feel overwhelmed, consider seeking help and advice from professional sources or joining parent communities online that can help guide you when you feel at a loss.
As delightful as a romantic candle-lit dinner for two may be, once kids get added into the equation, you’ve got to think more creatively. But that’s okay. Valentine’s Day isn’t just for couples; it’s for sharing with anyone you care about. And what better expression of your love than the family you have created? This Valentine’s Day, show your family how much you cherish them all day long. Keep reading to get 8 splendid ideas on ways to celebrate the holiday with the entire family.
1. Dine Elegantly
A special dinner can still be in the cards even if it takes place at home. An added plus of taking charge of the experience is that it can be as simple or as elaborate as you care to make it. Begin with candles and fresh flowers, and feel free to sacrifice one or two buds so you can have romantic petals on the table. Have everyone get dressed up in fancy Valentine’s Day outfits, and let the kids decide for themselves what their idea of dressy is.
If you’re feeling especially inspired, make boutonnieres for the gents and corsages for the ladies. Options abound for the meal itself. One idea is to make dishes entirely out of red foods. Or you could serve heart-shaped pizzas or cookies. Or you can simply arrange pink cupcakes in a heart shape on a plate. If you have the time and inclination, create a treat board for dessert. This can easily contain healthy options like fruit and yogurt for dipping. Whatever you do, definitely have the kids contribute ideas about what to serve.
2. Create Together
Nothing says ‘I Love You’ like a handmade gift. And if the weather outside is frightful, a crafting day can be the perfect way to pass the time. Crafting can take so many forms, edible or not, long-lasting or made to enjoy today. You could bake cookies or pretzels, sliders, make decadent truffles or chocolate fondue for dipping fruit and cake. Non-food craft ideas for kids include tissue paper flowers, salt dough ornaments for a Valentine’s Day tree, or simple fingerprint heart art. Older kids may enjoy making origami hearts, string art, or heart-shaped tissue paper sun catchers. And all but the tiniest babes can make cards decorated with potato stamps (cut into heart shapes, of course). Be sure to include the date so you will always remember this special day.
3. Dance the Night Away
It’s likely that Valentine’s Day will involve extra sugar. Why not burn off some of that energy with a sweet dance session? Cue up your favorite tunes on an iPod, pop Just Dance into the Wii, or just flick on the radio. If your kids are into it, learn actual dance steps. YouTube has countless free tutorials from ballroom to Bollywood so you can torch calories and learn something new at the same time. Not feeling super energetic? Get everyone matching pjs, make up a big batch of popcorn, and cuddle up on the couch to watch a favorite movie together.
4. Stargaze
Another option for burning off that box of chocolates is to take a romantic and educational outing to gaze at the stars. Canada is blessed with vast areas of wilderness, and Ontario is home to many Dark Sky Preserves, including the one at North Frontenac located only 90 minutes from Ottawa. If you happen to be in the Toronto vicinity, check out the Binbrook Conservation Area near Hamilton where you can enjoy an inspirational view over Lake Erie. If you’re lucky, you might even spot Betelgeuse, aka, the red Valentine’s Star.
5. Up (or Bring) Your Game
If you’re in the mood to go out but a sit-down restaurant is beyond the kids’ patience level (or yours), consider taking the fam to a cafe for a relaxing, low-key outing. Treat yourself to a favorite fancy coffee drink, and the kiddos to hot chocolates with extra whipped cream. Many coffee shops now have games available for patrons to use, but feel free to bring your own. If the weather or other factors don’t cooperate, you can easily recreate a delightful cafe atmosphere at home.
6. Go on a Heart Hunt
No matter your age, a scavenger hunt is always great fun, and a Valentine’s Day-themed search is a great way to spend the day. Simply cut out a bunch of hearts from coloured paper, using one hue for each family member. The kids can most certainly help with this part. Write short, sweet messages on each one. It doesn’t have to be anything too fancy. An ‘I♥︎U’ or ‘Good for 1 Hug’ is all you need. You can even use candy hearts for inspiration. Assign colours to each person to find and let the fun begin! (Be sure to remind the kids that they shouldn’t shout out if they spot someone else’s colour.) The search can be done inside or out, so if the weather cooperates, definitely consider having the kids run around in the fresh air.
7. Seek Out Light
If you happen to be within striking distance of Toronto, consider making an outing to the Light Festival in the Historic Distillery District. The event is family-friendly, free, and this year, it takes place from January 17 — March 1, 2023. Besides lots of pretty lights, the festival features art created by local and international artists. Bundle up and enjoy!
8. Put the Kids to Bed Early
With such a fun, jam-packed day behind them, with any luck, you won’t have trouble getting the kids into bed early. Then the adults-only portion of Valentine’s Day can begin. Take the time beforehand to write each other love letters, and then savour them along with an adult beverage for a sweet ending to a sweet day.
With so many options, you may discover that one day is too short to do them all. The only thing better than a holiday is one that is so full of fun that it flies by!
Losing the last predetermined five pounds is a battle many people happily or miserably embrace, depending if it’s the beginning of a diet or the end of a longer weight loss attempt. If all perspective is lost and the decision to reach a weight 5 pounds lighter is all consuming, past methods must be discarded. Let’s have a look at how to lose those last 5 pounds!
What Results in Short Term Weight Loss Only
There are methods to simply and quickly drop the 5 pounds, the problem is keeping them off. Usually quick weight loss isn’t maintained when it is lost in the following ways:
Weight loss pills also know as appetite suppressants will decrease the appetite and remove the five pounds… until either the drug supply is depleted or the body is accustomed to the drug.
Shots may have a placebo effect and can help temporarily, but eventually the body can’t be fooled and the weight returns.
The cookie diet reduce the total caloric intake but the craving for real chocolate or bread or starch eventually overwhelms the dieter.
How to lose those last 5 pounds
This isn’t an immediate solution to fit better into an outfit by the weekend but there is an easier and less expensive solution than joining the many weight loss clinics which require tests and appointments.
Accepting the weight isn’t a weight loss solution, but a technique to change the inner self criticism. If that isn’t possible, try the following 6 tips if you want to lose 5 pounds:
1. Interval training
Theories debate continuous exercise vs. spurts. Active spurts of walking and running seem to be effective and sustainable for even non-athletes. Ideally practice interval training for 30 minutes a day four days a week. Acceptable is 90 to 120 minutes a week over three days with rest in between. Over time, weight is lost if all else remains constant due to burning more calories and building muscle mass.
2. Elliptical training
3.5 miles per hour at 25 minutes is better than 4.0 for 10 minutes. Aim for 25 minutes until 30 minutes seem natural and then increase the speed in small increments weekly. If the elliptical has inclines, use this to increase the energy expended. This is a plan that doesn’t imply changing any food intake. Check out an activity burn chart for calorie burned numbers.
3. Walking daily as weight loss method
Prevention Magazine is an advocate of the power of walking. Walking briskly 30 minutes a day and not changing anything else can result in a 10-pound weight loss over a year. Leaving room for error and rainy days, assume this will provide the five pound weight loss.
4. Pedometers help measure steps
Walking 7000 steps a day (3 1/2 mile) will maintain a healthy weight and can get many benefits from it. Adding more steps increases the odds of losing a few pounds. If you want to start walking for to lose weight, the general rule of thumb is to walk at least 10,000 steps daily.
5. Sleep
Too much sleep makes the body sluggish but too little doesn’t rev the engine to burn more fat. It only serves to keep the body sluggish conserving what little energy there is for getting through the day. The average person needs between six to nine hours a night for cortisol production and weight stability. Lack of sleep can increase stress and cortisol causing weight gain.
6. Food plan
Don’t deprive the body of all cravings but set aside a day or time to satisfy one or two. If wine is a luxury then have it on Saturday only. Similarly, chocolate. No one item is going to destroy an entire weight loss plan. If it is determined that even having one of the desired item leads to total lack of control, for example, one potato chip, then that item should be discarded and a substitute found. If it’s salty and crunchy that is desired, try a pretzel rather than a chip once a week.
If the American Dietetic Association claims cutting 100 calories a day results in a loss of 10 pounds a year, cutting 50 calories a day (salad dressing, a can of soda, coffee lattes with cream, or Starbucks café Mocha?) may result in a loss of five pounds.
Logically speaking, five pounds isn’t even a different dress size, but a comfort zone. Most people can lose the weight, but the trick is maintaining the weight loss. The above measures are a good beginning to long-term loss of small amounts of weight. It didn’t happen overnight; so not focusing on immediate loss is more productive ultimately.
Have you ever been sitting around after dinner and had a craving for a snack? Maybe you are looking for a new appetizer for a party, a picnic, or even the Super Bowl? Well, these cream cheese stuffed mini peppers are so simple and easy to make with only a few ingredients.
If you need an appetizer that is gluten-free, low calorie, low carb or if you are on a keto diet then this cream cheese stuffed mini peppers recipe is for you. Learn more about Ketogenic diets and check out these Must Try Keto recipes.
Stuffed Mini Peppers
Mini peppers are firm, crisp and crunchy. They are a vibrant colour of red, orange and yellow. Peppers are a versatile vegetable that can be added to pasta, casseroles and even pizza. These stuffed mini peppers with cream cheese are topped with everything bagel seasoning. This is a cold snack so there is no baking involved unless of course, you want to bake them.
Make these stuffed sweet mini peppers ahead of time so you are prepared to serve them as appetizers for the big game or when you are having guests over. You can also add a few extras to the cream cheese, like bacon crumble to add extra flavour to your peppers and make a cheesy bacon stuffed mini peppers!
Cream Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers with Everything Bagel Seasoning
This recipe for stuffed mini peppers is healthy and so delicious everyone will love them so make sure you have plenty to serve.
Cut each of the sweet mini peppers in half and remove all the seeds.
Add the sour cream, cream cheese and 2 tbsp of everything bagel seasoning into a mixing bowl and combine. Fill each mini pepper with the cream cheese mixture.
Store the mini stuffed peppers in a glass or plastic container with a closed lid in refrigerator until ready to serve.
DIY Everything Bagel Seasoning
While you can buy the Everything Bagel Seasoning, you can make your own with only 6 ingredients, You will be able to add the flavour to so many different things like your own homemade bagels, avocado toast, or anything you think it would make a great addition too.
2 tbsp Poppy Seeds
1 tbsp Sesame Seeds
1 tbsp Black Sesame Seeds
1 1/2 tbsp Minced Dried Garlic
1 1/2 tbsp Minced Dried Onion
1/2 tsp Sea Salt
How to make Everything Bagel Seasoning
In a small blow, combine all the ingredients. The seasoning can be stored in an air-tight container for your next use.
I hope you enjoyed these Cream Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers as much I did! If you make this appetizer recipe, please share your photos with us on Facebook or Twitter! Also, check out all of our other Recipes!
Cream Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers
Lyne Proulx
These cream cheese stuffed mini peppers are so simple and easy to make with only a few ingredients.
2tbspEverything Bagel Seasoningor see seasoning recipe in notes
16ozSour Cream
12Mini Sweet Peppers or more
Instructions
Cut each of the sweet mini peppers in half and remove all the seeds.
Add the sour cream, cream cheese and 2 tbsp of everything bagel seasoning into a mixing bowl and combine. Fill each mini pepper with the cream cheese mixture.
cream cheese stuffed mini peppers with everything bagel seasoning.Pin
Store the mini stuffed peppers in refrigerator until ready to serve.
Notes
DIY EVERYTHING BAGEL SEASONINGWhile you can buy the Everything Bagel Seasoning, you can make your own with only 6 ingredients!
2 tbsp Poppy Seeds
1 tbsp Sesame Seeds
1 tbsp Black Sesame Seeds
1 1/2 tbsp Minced Dried Garlic
1 1/2 tbsp Minced Dried Onion
1/2 tsp Sea Salt
HOW TO MAKE EVERYTHING BAGEL SEASONINGIn a small blow, combine all the ingredients. The seasoning can be stored in an air-tight container for your next use.
There are many health benefits of eating almonds on a daily basis. Almonds are nutritious and make a healthy on-the-go snack for the family. Let’s have a closer look at ten health benefits of almonds!
Ten health benefits of almonds
Browsing through your local supermarket, you’ll be confronted with a wealth of nuts to choose from and figuring which are the best to take home can be a bit confusing. While all nuts have unique, nutritious qualities, a few stand out as particularly healthful, and Almonds are definitely one of the champs when it comes to health benefits. What are the benefits of eating almonds?
1. Almonds are Gluten free
For those who can’t eat foods containing wheat, almonds are a perfect substitute. How? Almonds are usually made of about 25 percent carbohydrates, which means they can be ground down and used for baking biscuits, cookies and other breads. Since almonds are gluten free, they are an excellent choice for those who are sensitive to gluten or have to deal with wheat allergies.
2. Diabetes
No, a diet of almonds cannot cure diabetes. But what almonds are known to do is level out and stabilize sugar levels in the body, especially after eating. This means almonds are a good food for helping those with diabetes in watching their sugar levels.
3. Stay regular
You know what I mean. Almonds are high in natural fibre, which means they help to ease the stomach and intestines. Those suffering with constipation could find benefit in eating a handful of almonds each day.
4. Lower Level of Bad Cholesterol
Almonds contain some polyunsaturated fats and are a solid source of monounsaturated fats, two natural resources which help the body to lower its levels of bad cholesterol.
5. Healthier blood
Sodium is generally bad for the blood. Potassium is good for the blood. Almonds have lots of potassium and very, very little sodium. See, all that potassium eases the bloods trip through the body and helps to spread nutrients throughout the body. Sodium tends to hinder this, especially a lot of sodium.
6. Stronger bones
Almonds also contain a fair amount of calcium, which is important for strengthening bones and helping to prevent the bone-weakening disease known as osteoporosis. All this calcium also means almonds are good for stronger teeth, just like for bones.
7. Give you more energy
Protein helps provide energy to the body. Almonds have lots of protein, especially absorbable and quality protein. So, if you need a little pep in your walk in the mornings, grab a handful of almonds before heading out to work.
8. May Reduce the Risk of Heart disease
The Food and Drug Administration is in on this one. While it has not been proven that a diet rich in almonds, and other nuts, is good for the heart, the FDA has officially stated that “Scientific evidence suggests, but does not prove, that eating 1.5 ounces per day of most nuts, such as almonds, as part of a diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol may reduce the risk of heart disease.” You can’t ask for much better of a recommendation than that.
9. Antioxidants
Studies have shown almonds, especially the skin of almonds, contain flavonoids, which acts as an antioxidant and scientists believe helps the body in protecting its cells from suffering damage.
10. Lose weight
Almonds are what’s known as a nutrient-dense food. What that means is almonds pack a lot of nutrition in a little space and that almonds can help your stomach to feel full. If you are feeling full, you are likely to eat less. That combined with all the nutrients almonds provides, leads to a healthier diet and improves one’s chances to lose weight.
If you’ve always thought almonds were nothing more than a snack food, think again. Nuts are steadily making their way out of the snack aisle, where they sat shoulder to shoulder with the familiar rogue’s gallery of junk foods, and onto the shopping lists of health-conscious consumers. Not only are almonds an extremely versatile culinary option, perfect whether incorporated into the finest pesto sauce or munched on as a simple snack, almonds are highly nutritious and full of health benefits.
These poppy seed ham and cheese sliders are great appetizers to have on hand when the gang comes over for Game Day! It’s simple to put together and is deliciously portable, making it easy to devour while rooting your team on to victory!
Easy super bowl party food
Are you looking for easy Super Bowl party food? This recipe for poppy seed ham and cheese sliders are easy to prepare and make a delicious game day appetizer to serve your guests watching the Super Bowl. So no matter which team you are cheering for, you will score big when it comes to serving this Super Bowl food.
Best Ham for Ham and Cheese Sliders
Did you know there were so many kinds of ham that can make your guests come back for more of these ham and cheese sliders? Any kind of cooked deli ham would work wonderfully in this recipe. Looking for a lighter flavoured ham? Try using a country or Black Forest ham. For a sweeter taste, slice up some honey, brown sugar, or maple glazed ham. Is a strong flavour more to your liking? Turn to a Capicola, a Prosciutto, or a Pancetta ham!
How to store leftover sliders
If there are any of these ham and cheese sliders with poppy seeds left after your Game Day festivities, there are two ways you can use to store them. You can either cover them on a heat-resistant form with plastic wrap or aluminum foil or place these mini sandwiches in an air-tight container until you want to snack on them again.
What to Serve with Ham and Cheese Sliders?
These ham and cheese sliders with poppy seed dressing are a great addition to have on a Game Day table. Pulled pork tacos, chicken sheet pan nachos, and Cajun corn salad are favourite tasty snacks that would be great ideas to choose as sides to accompany this yummy dish. A fun charcuterie board topped with Game Day favourite snacks such as chips, pretzels, popcorn, and candy is another crunchy option.
Would you like a healthier option? Chopped fruit or veggies with dips would be fabulous alternatives to serve. Sweet and flavourful drinks such as pop or fruit-based drinks would round out a fantastic Super Bowl table.
Poppy Seed Ham and Cheese Sliders
I have to say that these baked ham and cheese sliders are the best Super Bowl party food to serve as appetizers! Your family will definitely be asking for seconds! This recipe makes 4 sliders, but you can double or triple the recipe to make as many as would like to feed your guests.
Kitchen Tools Needed
Cookie Sheet with parchment paper
1 small bowl
Cutting board
Kitchen oil brush
Poppy Seed Ham and Cheese Sliders Ingredients
4 Slider Buns
16 Gouda Cheese slices or your favourite cheese such as Havarti or Mozzarella
8 Ham slices
1/2 cup Butter (melted)
1 tsp Mustard
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tbsp Poppy
1 tsp Brown sugar
1/2 tsp Onion powder
1/2 tsp Garlic powder
How to make ham and cheese sliders in the oven
1. Heat the oven at at 350°F. Put a parchment paper in a heat-resistant tray or on a cookie sheet.
2. On a cutting board, cut the buns in half and put the bottom part on the tray or cookie sheet.
3. Lay out 2 slices of cheese on the half bun.
4. Add the 2 slices of ham and 2 slices of cheese.
5. Cover the top with the other half bun.
6. In a small bowl, whisk melted butter with mustard, sugar, Worcestershire sauce, poppy seeds, garlic and onion powder.
7. With a kitchen oil brush, brush the topping sauce on top of the buns and bake the ham and cheese sliders in the oven for about 20 minutes
I hope you enjoyed these Poppy Seed Ham and Cheese Sliders as much I did! If you make this appetizer recipe, please share your photos with us on Facebook or Twitter! Also, check out all of our other Recipes!
Poppy Seed Ham and Cheese Sliders
Lyne Proulx
These poppy seed ham and cheese sliders are great appetizers to have on hand when the gang comes over for a party, to watch a sport's game, or the Super Bowl.
Keyword appetizer, Big Game appetizer, game day food, ham and cheese sliders, poppy seed ham and cheese sliders, sliders, Super Bowl appetizer, Super Bowl food
Inclusion is an important topic for kids of all ages to learn about. Owlkids Books shares books from various authors that helps to teach kids why all types of people are needed to make our world a fun place to live. Naseem Hrab tackles this theme with humour in his book How to Party Like a Snail.
Who is Owlkids Books?
Owlkids Books is a Toronto-based award-winning independent book publisher for readers aged 0-14 years-old. They love publishing books that help kids to find a love of reading and to learn about the world around them.
My son was asked to read a few titles from Owlkids that touch on various topics. Each of these books share a different message to help open the world to them from numerous points of view.
What is How to Party Like a Snail about?
In this story, Snail is an animal who likes to party, just not in the same way as some of his other animal friends. He likes the quieter aspects of a party: confetti, making new friends (using his indoor voice), and the quiet before everyone yells “SURPRISE!” When a party becomes too loud for Snail to bear, he retreats into his shell to continue to have a good time.
His friends can’t see Snail enjoying himself in his shell and misunderstand his actions. They think he is not having fun at parties, so they stop inviting him to them. To show his friends he can be the life of a party, Snail plans his own Snail-type of party. Stump, a fellow introvert, chimes in with the idea that Snail might be missing a friend to share the quiet with at a party. Snail and Stump then celebrate “the Shush” together at Snails party.
Our thoughts on How to Party Like a Snail
My son liked reading the How to Party Like a Snail book from Owlkids Books. There have been times that my son has felt as though he was misunderstood. He was grateful for the friends he had who were able to understand who he is and like to play with him in a different way than with another kid. My son also learned how to recognize some ways another children might express being introverted without their words and to reach out to them so they feel included in certain activities.
We liked how Hrab used simple language so younger readers can understand the story. We also enjoyed how you can tell the difference between the thoughts of the narrator an those of other characters. Hrab also uses descriptive language so readers can easily understand how the characters are feeling.
Kelly Collier illustrated this amusing tale. She used bright colours in a softer way to breathe life into these cute characters. One of our favourite cues Collier used to share the feelings of the characters with readers was through their expressive eyes. It was easy to see throughout this story whether Snail was happy, sad, worried, or anxious.
A great recommendation for How to Party Like a Snail
Overall, we really loved reading How to Party Like a Snail. I felt that Hrab’s way of showing the importance of inclusion to readers was clever by means of an introverted snail. We enjoyed how gentle the story flowed while learning how there are more ways to enjoy a party. The illustrations were cute and eye-catching. My son and I discovered different ways to be amused at a party that are not loud and brash. How to Party Like a Snail is an amusing tale my son and I will be adding to the rotation of books to read together.
Green engineering revolves around practicing engineering with an awareness of environmental problems. It aims to reduce waste, manage materials usage, enhance products, and, more importantly, prevent pollution.
Most of us are only familiar with construction engineers and architects. Take your attention to other industries. There are more of them than you thought, for instance, Geodetic Engineers, Food Engineers, Chemical Engineers, Computer Engineers, Mechanical Engineers, and many more.
Hence, you can see green engineers in various fields, such as product design, distribution, manufacturing, land-use plotting, city planning, supply chain management, and architectural planning.
How Is Integrating Solar Panels In Green Engineering Important?
As we know, fossil fuels and nuclear power plants produce vast amounts of toxic waste that are harmful to us. Environmentalists, including green engineers, support renewable energy sources like solar, wind, water, and geothermal.
Thus, green engineering in the construction industry introduced solar panels. The solar panel is a device invented to convert solar power into electrical energy, and it is one way of utilizing energy without relying on power plants. To elaborate more on its significance, here are some advantages of solar panels integrated with green engineering.
1. Provides Tax Incentives From The Government
Some states and governments offer incentives to communities, community members, and companies that use sustainable energy. For instance, in Canada, installing solar panels comes with perks. Ontario solar incentives, for example, offer to improve energy efficiency, install rooftop solar panels, and provide up to $5,600 to complete your Home Energy Audit with the help of the Greener Homes Grant.
It is just one of many credits and rebates for integrating solar panels with your construction and architectural plans. Green engineers also consider these incentives when presenting their projects to their clients. If you plan on going solar, consult your architect and engineer and find out if they do integrated solar services.
2. Lessen Electric Bill
One of the best perks of integrating solar panels into your construction plan is reducing your electric bill. The stored solar energy during the day can cover pretty much most of the primary electrical consumption you have in the household. Also, imagine if there is a power outage, and you have electricity on standby without worrying about the extra cost. Thus, it can also be an excellent complement to generators.
You have to think about it in the long term. Though it seems expensive on paper— the future effect has more weight than the cost you would pay today.
3. It gives You Access To Inexhaustible Energy Sources
Having solar panels allows you to contribute to environmental preservation. Global warming and climate change has been an ongoing battle for humanity. Hence, the invention of solar panels is just one among many other innovations which aim to help lessen its harmful effects.
Remember, solar energy is inexhaustible. It never runs out, and you only need a way to store it. Thus, the purpose of solar panels. Remember to position your panels carefully. It should be in the line of a path where the sun rises and sets, east to west. You can also concentrate the number of panels in a position where it captures the sun at its peak, the noon.
It might not be sunny every day, but there’s no need to worry since the sunlight is still out there, even on cloudy days. You have every day to hope for the sun to shine. As the saying goes, “…save up for the rainy days….”
4. Helps The Environment In General
Let us talk about the positive effect of solar panels on the environment in general. The world built power plants to generate electricity, which operate with high carbon emissions, contributing significantly to the accumulation of greenhouse gasses in the atmosphere—making the planet warmer than it should be. It also advances the melting of the ice caps resulting in rising sea levels.
With the use of solar panels, we will draw less energy consumption from these power plants and will gradually lessen carbon emissions. Every little act to save the environment matters, and add to that the countless endeavours of planting more trees. Do your little part by integrating solar panels as part of engineering your homes and establishments.
5. Improves Your Financials
Electrical bill allocation is quite a considerable chunk of our budget. Sometimes, we allocate more to it than other monthly expenses. How do you solve this dilemma? What is it that can help you lessen your electrical bill? The answer is solar panel integration.
As expensive as it may seem, solar panels are an investment, and the construction cost will definitely have you thinking if it is worth the try. However, those who did try have enjoyed the improvement in their financials in the long run.
Their bill went down, thus, allowing them to allocate more budget to other monthly expenditures. Some would even have an almost zero on their account. It will enable them to put that budget into savings and emergency funds.
Takeaway
Solar panel integration in green engineering is a favourable option for people considering the future. It means preparing for the worst-case scenarios and, at the same time contributing to the benefit of the environment.
See yourself two to three years ahead. You have your solar panels up and running, your electrical bill is at the lowest compared to previous years, and your mind is at peace knowing you have done your part in helping diminish the effects of global warming and climate change. Think about it.
Everyone loves marshmallows. They are great to munch on when you have a craving for something sweet and light. If you have ever considered trying your hand at making homemade marshmallows, then you are going to appreciate this collection of 15 marshmallow recipes.
I gathered 15 of my favourite recipes for homemade marshmallows to share with you. These ideas include unique flavours like, earl grey, elderflower fluff, and colourful and fruity Kool aid marshmallows and more. I am sure you are sure to find a few recipes you want to pin for later so you can recreate them at home.
Can homemade marshmallows be frozen?
If you are thinking that if you made a batch of these fluffy goodies, you would have to eat them all right away, which might not mesh with your new years resolutions. Well, you will be happy to know you can make some of these quick marshmallow recipes and freeze them for up to 3 months in an air tight container.
How long are homemade marshmallows good for?
After making these, if you don’t plan to freeze them, you should store them in a zipper seal food storage bag or airtight container and consume them within a month. If your homemade marshmallows have been dipped in chocolate or something similar, they will keep for about 2 weeks. So, if you are planning to make these to gift to a friend or relative, you can make them in advance and have them be fresh and tasty upon delivery. With so many unique ideas below, I know you are going to want to try them and share your efforts!
How to make homemade marshmallows
Making homemade marshmallows is really easy! The trick is to continually stir the syrup in the saucepan until the sugar melts. You will need to use a candy thermometer as the syrup needs to reach 240 degrees. After, pour the syrup into a bowl and add the unflavoured gelatin, then slowly mix with a hand mixer. Gradually increase the speed of the mixer to high until stiff peaks begin to form about 10-15 minutes. Pour into a pan and let the homemade marshmallows sit. Once they are set, cut into desired shapes.
15 homemade marshmallow recipes
Be sure to click thru the links below to save the full recipes for these homemade marshmallows. Don’t forget that no cup of cocoa would be complete without a delicious melted marshmallow on the top.
15 Homemade Marshmallow Recipes
If you have ever considered making homemade marshmallows, then you are going to appreciate this collection of 15 marshmallow recipes.
Marshmallows don’t get much better than they are with this recipe. This has such a cozy flavour that is great for a treat to share, or to melt into a cozy drink.
If you want an easy marshmallows recipe to start with you will want to save this one. It is great for beginners and the results are always impressive. You will get lots of tips and tricks too!
Who knew that it was so easy to make homemade marshmallows that are sugar free? This recipe is sure to be appreciated by anyone who watches their sugar intake.
Hope you enjoy these 15 Homemade Marshmallow Recipes as much as I did! I can’t wait to hear which one of these easy marshmallow recipes you want to try first!
The holidays are officially over and it’s time to get back to routine. For the moms who are avid runners or walkers, getting out for that daily hit of endorphins can feel daunting in an Ottawa winter, let alone when you have little ones in tow and don’t have the right gear.
But with the launch of the new stroller – the Summit X3 Jogging Stroller from Baby Jogger and global fitness leader Robin Arzón, you officially have no excuse to miss your daily dose of al fresco exercise.
Baby Jogger®, distributed by Brands in Motion Inc. and part of the Newell Brands global portfolio of brands, just launched this new limited-edition fashion of its Summit™ X3 Jogging Stroller from Arzón, who has become well known for her role at Peloton as instructor and VP of fitness. As an ultramarathon runner and original Summit X3 user herself, she was the perfect candidate to design a stroller that is not only beautiful, but highly functional.
Baby Jogger Summit X3 Benefits and Features
Here are awesome benefits and features of the new Baby Jogger Summit X3:
It’s Stylish
Robin designed the exclusive ‘City Royalty’ fashion with bold black fabrics and gold accents inspired by her home city, New York, meaning you don’t have to compromise on great style while getting after it!
“Royalty is the theme of my limited-edition Summit X3 fashion. ‘Chin Up, Crown On’ is my mantra as a mother, executive, athlete, and more. The gold and black color story evokes the crown and the city that is our kingdom. There is no need to sacrifice style for function,” said Robin Arzón.
Built with confidence so families can adventure together, Baby Jogger elevates traditional baby gear to be sleeker with an array of chic finishes and fabrics that encompass current trends seen in both the fashion and automotive industries. Robin’s design of the Summit X3 includes a vegan leather harness cover and branding tag, and a one-of-a-kind city-grid print inspired by New York City and designed by a local artist.
It’s Made for an Ottawa Winter (and Summers!)
This stroller is loaded with features that make it perfect for various climates and terrains.
“When selecting a jogging stroller, I thought about how I was going to use it with my family. Baby Jogger’s Summit X3 was the jogger that came highest recommended when I was pregnant and is the jogging stroller I use with my daughter, Athena. What stands out to me most is that it provides a smooth ride and the ability to handle the wear, tear, and terrain as I traverse curbs, puddles, and city life,” shared Robin.
With all-wheel suspension, pneumatic tires and a hand-operated brake to keep you in control when heading downhill, you’re in for a smooth ride!
It Keeps Baby Happy!
Of course, the Summit X3 was designed with moms in mind, but also includes a variety of features to keep baby as comfortable as possible so that you can both enjoy the ride:
A signature, one-hand, in-seat fold for simple storage
Near-flat seat recline to keep baby comfortable all ride long
A UV50+ canopy with peekaboo windows and reflective trim to protect baby from the sun
Mesh side vents for improved airflow
So, if you’re feeling inspired to get back into, or start, a fitness routine with your little one this winter, be sure to add this new must-have stroller as your new fav workout accessory. The limited-edition City Royalty fashion of the Summit X3 Jogging Stroller is available in Canada at specialty retailers including J.M. Clément Ltée, Snuggle Bugz Inc., West Coast Kids and Agatha Boutiqueand on Baby Jogger. The MSRP is $729.99 CAD.
For more information on Baby Jogger Summit X3, you can visit their website and follow them on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Pinterest!
Happy exercising!
Disclaimer: This article is sponsored by Robin Arzón.
Christmas shopping, gift wrapping, home cooking. Each year the holidays come around, and while it’s lots of fun seeing family and friends, it’s also a lot of hard work – particularly once the kids are off school. That’s why parents everywhere need to carve some ‘me time’ out during this festive season, and what’s a better way to do that than with crafts?
Proven to lower your blood pressure and compared by many to a form of meditation, they are the perfect self-care project, from which you get to take home something pretty or useful. So, with that in mind, here are 8 ideas for holiday-related crafts that might just help you relax a little…
1. Warm Simmer Pot
Starting by engaging all the senses, a winter simmer pot relaxes you as soon as those warm rich scents hit your nose. Sometimes called a Stovetop Potpourri, this is a really easy DIY that can be customisable depending on which scents you enjoy. Most commonly calling on ingredients like orange, cinnamon, star anise, pine and apple – a simmer pot gives your home that wonderful smell of baking, without doing any of the work. Simply let all the ingredients simmer in one big pot and let the luxurious and relaxing scents waft throughout your house.
2. Resin Ornaments
Making Christmas ornaments is always cute and something fun to do with your kids, but if you wanted to do this solo or with a group of friends, resin ornaments are a really fun festive activity. Essentially anything can be made into a resin ornament with the help of some epoxy resin and some hardener – mixed together in a 1:1 ratio. You can also get plenty of silicone moulds online or from your local craft store, many of which come in festive shapes! A chance to make any image or small object into a piece of decor, we love this one
3. Christmas Terrarium
They always say that being near plants has calming properties, so why not bring nature inside by making a Christmas theme terrarium? Get together some pine leaves, twinkly lights and maybe a little fake snow, and you’ve got yourself a perfect festive scene. Plus, if you don’t want to spend too much, this can easily be achieved with a glass jar you have lying around at home.
4. Festive Embroidery
Did you know that the British Journal of Occupational Therapy found that knitting actually can help increase happiness levels? Well, it might be a bit of an intensive task to learn to knit over Christmas, however many of the same calming qualities can be found by indulging in a bit of embroidery. Much like knitting, simple repetitive movements have been found to calm the mind and encourage a certain level of mindfulness while doing so.
5. Pressed Flower Bookmark
While on the topic of mindfulness, it was also found that the simple act of giving thanks can make you happier. Naturally, therefore, preserving memories should also improve your sense of well-being, giving you a chance to reflect on all you have. A really lovely crafty way of doing this is to create a pressed flower bookmark if you have any special occasion flowers you might have saved. Whether from an anniversary, wedding or just because they were pretty, this is a way to keep them forever.
6. Christmas Colouring
We all remember the trend for adult colouring books a few years ago, but it really is true that colouring can help your mental state. The repetitive movement allows space for your mind to relax and de-stress, plus it allows adults to have a bit of play and a space for expressing their creativity. Much like all these crafts, this isn’t to say that a bit of colouring is going to fix all your ailments, but nonetheless, it cordons off a space for mindfulness in your busy day. There are plenty of Christmas colouring books available, packed with images of Christmas markets, reindeer and mistletoe, but if you just want to give it a go, you’ll also find plenty of printable images online that you can access for free!
7. Painted Coasters
Likewise, if you’re wanting to stretch that artistic muscle, a really simple way to do this is by painting some wooden coasters. Available cheaply at places like IKEA, just grab yourself a pack of wooden coasters and some acrylic paint and then get painting any design you want. As with drawing, the simple creation process is sure to relax you, and then you can keep your coasters either on the table or turn them into baubles by making a hole and adding some string. It’ll make the tree look extra homely and cosy.
8. DIY Bath Bomb
And last but not least, spa-themed crafts are always winners. So an at-home bath bomb is the perfect self-care craft because you get the enjoy it twice – once while making and once while using. Much like the simmering pot, you can decide the scent depending on your personal preference. But whatever you choose, a relaxing experience is sure to ensue.
Most of all, make sure to carve out a bit of time to take care of yourself this year and remember that it’s less about creating something beautiful and more about allowing some self-care time. So, with that in mind, happy crafting to you all, and have a great holiday season!
Bananas may not give that sense of “instant fruit-freshness,” as most watery and juicy fruits do (such as orange or watermelon), but people still love the delicate flavour of the fruits. Besides being flavourful, bananas are rich with health benefits. You will find below top 10 health benefits of bananas!
As tropical fruits, bananas can attract people right away with the bright and smooth yellow (or green, for some varieties) skin colour. Bananas are inexpensive and easily accessible, and therefore can become a part of anyone’s daily diet. Bananas can be eaten has a healthy snack or eaten as part of a healthy breakfast!
Health Benefits of Bananas to the body
First, the banana is an important source of Vitamin B1 (Thiamine) that helps prevent fatigue and serves as the vitamin for the brain, Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin) that helps in utilizing carbohydrate, Vitamin B3 (Niacin) that helps promote oxidative processes and transports hydrogen atoms, Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic acid), Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine) and Vitamin B9 (Folate) that reduces the risk of a woman in having a child with brain or spinal cord defect. B Vitamins have been observed that it also helps boost energy metabolism and at the same time, it helps improve the body nerve function.
Second, bananas are high in fiber. Like most fruits, bananas are also a good source of fiber. Nutritionists recommend to include as little as 30 grams of fiber in people’s daily food intake. Bananas are able to cover that, not to mention if they are combined with other sources of fiber, as well.
Third, bananas can help digestion. As the fruit contains a considerable amount of fiber, bananas can play a significant role for a well digestive system. There is no need to resort to laxatives because bananas are capable of restoring normal bowel action.
Fourth, bananas can give the effect of cleansing. The good nutrition bananas contain are able to give the effect similar to detoxification. This happens as bananas, with their soft textures and smoothness, are the only raw fruit that can be eaten without causing distress to the body’s intestinal parts.
Health Benefits of Bananas for Nervous System
Fifth, bananas can reduce anxiety and depression. Since this fruit is capable of giving the effect akin to sedative, bananas can do what sedatives generally do: reduce anxiety and depression. This links as well to a type of protein named tryptophan they contain. The body can convert said protein into serotonin, known to improve one’s mood.
Sixth, bananas can reduce sleeping problems. It is not recommended to turn to chemical medicines in the first place when people have problems to sleep well. Bananas can help, at least in reducing the problems, because they have vitamin B6 and potassium, vital vitamin and mineral in calming one’s nervous system. A tranquil nervous system helps people sleep better.
Health Benefits of Bananas for Energy
Seventh, bananas can boost energy. Many nutritionists suggest people to add at least one banana in their breakfast menu, as the fruit is an excellent resource of energy. The high level of potassium they contain are believed, based on researches, to make people more alert to start the day.
There is also carbohydrate named fructose in bananas that plays a role as an instant energy booster. It can serve as a decent and healthy snack to munch in between meals, or before a workout. Bananas actually provide the perfect energy for your fitness workout since they contain glucose & potassium.
Benefits of Bananas for Health Prevention
Eighth, bananas can lower risks of cancer. Anna Selby, author of Miracle Foods (2004), states that significant intake of bananas, alongside certain other kinds of foods, helps lowering risks of cancer.
Ninth, bananas can lower cholesterol level. There are two sorts of cholesterol in the body: the good and the bad ones. The good nutrition in bananas are able to cut down the level of the bad cholesterol.
Tenth, bananas can reduce risks of heart problems, stroke and high blood pressure. The high potassium and low salt in bananas are good for helping to beat the risks of said big-time health problems.
Seeing the health benefits of bananas above, it is proven that bananas are significant kind of fruit. Those 10 health benefits of bananas can be gained optimally only if the fruit is included in a regular diet, combined with other salutary food. All takes time, but these health benefits will truly be seen and felt within said regular consumption.
The story of women’s empowerment in Iceland is an inspiring one. For centuries, women have faced discrimination, a lack of opportunity, and marginalization in both the public and private sectors. However, recent decades have seen a surge of female entrepreneurs in Iceland, leading to unprecedented levels of success. In this blog post, we’ll explore the unique Icelandic entrepreneurial story and how it has enabled women to become leaders in business and beyond. We’ll discuss the challenges faced by women entrepreneurs in Iceland, their successes, and the implications for the future of Icelandic society.
Iceland’s journey to empowering women
Iceland has been on an incredible journey to empower women. In 2019, Forbes named it the most gender-equal country in the world for the 10th year in a row. This has been achieved through an unwavering commitment from the Icelandic government and the business community.
The journey started with the introduction of equal rights between men and women in 1940, and since then, Icelandic laws have grown more progressive. One key step forward was the 2010 Gender Equality Act, which includes the requirement that all companies with 25 employees or more must prove they are paying equal salaries to both genders.
There has also been a huge focus on providing educational opportunities to girls and women. Educational tours in Iceland are organized every year, exposing young women to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) and offering them inspiring speakers, workshops and mentorship programs to grow their skills. These educational tours provide insight into different career paths for women and create networks for further collaboration and support. Additionally, female founders are granted easier access to resources due to organizations like Women’s BizLab in Reykjavík that offer training, seminars, and coaching for entrepreneurs. Furthermore, as part of its efforts to combat gender inequality, the Icelandic government launched a new investment fund dedicated to female entrepreneurs in 2020. Called Heimili Kvenna (Women’s Home), this fund provides female entrepreneurs with capital investments ranging from 500,000 to 2 million euros. All these measures have resulted in the formation of many successful female owned businesses in Iceland.
Why women make great leaders
Women are often overlooked as leaders, but studies have shown that they can be extremely effective in leading organizations and bringing success to their teams. Women bring unique qualities to the table when it comes to leadership. They tend to be more inclusive and collaborative, which can lead to better decision-making and improved performance. They are also more likely to foster an environment of respect and trust, making them strong advocates for employee development and growth.
Women also demonstrate a level of resilience that is often necessary for dealing with the unpredictable nature of leadership roles. Their ability to think outside the box and use different strategies to achieve their goals is invaluable. Finally, women have a tendency to take on a more holistic approach to their work, allowing them to connect with people from different backgrounds and understand their perspectives.
These traits combined create a powerful force in the business world that can help drive success for any organization. By creating an inclusive environment, women can empower those around them to achieve their potential and lead with integrity. This encourages a sense of belonging and allows individuals to thrive in their roles. By investing in and empowering women, organizations will be better equipped to reach their goals and succeed in the competitive global market.
How to empower women in your own country
Empowering women to lead in the workplace is critical for achieving gender equality. In order to do this, countries need to take steps to promote female leadership and to ensure that women are able to participate fully in the workforce.
The first step is to create a work environment that is supportive of women’s success. Companies should create policies that protect and promote gender equity, such as equal pay and flexible working hours. Women should also be given equal access to leadership positions, mentorship programs, and training opportunities.
The second step is to ensure that women are given the same opportunities as men in terms of education and professional development. This means providing women with access to quality education, job training, and other resources that can help them succeed in the workplace.
Finally, governments need to create incentives and support systems that empower women entrepreneurs. This can include providing capital grants and loans to help women start their own businesses, as well as programs that provide mentorship and support services. By creating an ecosystem of support, governments can help empower women entrepreneurs to succeed and reach their full potential.
By taking these steps, countries can create an environment in which women have the opportunity to succeed and lead. Empowering women to lead can help create gender equality, economic prosperity, and social progress.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Iceland has been a model country for empowering women in leadership roles. The Icelandic entrepreneurial story demonstrates how much progress has been made in this area and how much more can still be achieved. With the right mix of vision, determination, and government support, other countries can also work to create a culture of female leadership and entrepreneurship. By creating more opportunities for women to lead and succeed in the workplace, it is possible to create more equitable societies and a better future for all. Additionally, when women are empowered to take on positions of leadership, their ideas and solutions become an integral part of the decision-making process. This makes these decisions smarter, leading to improved outcomes overall.
If you are looking for a tasty way to start your day, then you are going to want to check out this collection of healthy overnight oats recipes. This list is loaded with hearty and healthy overnight oat recipes that you are sure to love.
I don’t know about you, but I am always looking for ways to get healthy and tasty breakfast on the table for my family. These days, with so much going on in our schedules, time is always limited, and feeding the family before they rush out the door can be a challenge.
Healthy breakfast ideas with oatmeal seem to be a great option for us. Overnight oats can be prepped the night before, in cute little jars, or portable bowls. Just grab one with a spoon, in the morning, or take one as you head out the door.
How to make overnight oatmeal in the refrigerator
One thing I love about overnight oats is that they require no cooking! They can be very simple to prepare, just add your favourite ingredients and some oatmeal, top with milk and let the fridge do the work for you. If you haven’t tried your oatmeal cold yet, let me be the first to inform you, you are missing out on something wonderful! There are so many options to mix into steel cut overnight oats recipes, that the possibilities are endless, finding a favourite shouldn’t be a problem.
How long are overnight oats good in the refrigerator
You might be wondering how long overnight oats will keep in the fridge? They keep well for up to 5 days. So, feel free to make a batch tonight and munch on them all week long.
When making your overnight oats, they should soak overnight as the name suggests, or at least 6 hours for the best flavours.
Blueberry makes for such a great addition to this overnight oats morning breakfast! Mix in a spoonful of chia seeds to keep you full a little while longer.
Strawberries in oatmeal? What a dreamy idea for a great prep ahead breakfast. This is my favourite healthy overnight oat recipe!
Hope you enjoy these healthy overnight oats recipes as much as I did! Also, check out our recipes! If you have a favourite overnight oats recipe, be sure to share that with us in the comment below!
It’s that time of the year again. Snow is falling. School is cancelled. Kids are getting cabin fever. It’s cold outside, so let’s find activities to do with snow for when kids want to play outside in the winter. Simply bundle them up!
Here are a 6 ideas of fun things to do on snow days:
1. Snow Ice Cream
Like ice cream, snow ice cream can be a tasty treat for the kids. Make sure you take freshly powdered clean white snow and not a yellowish colour as this means the snow has been contaminated. Of course, it’s best to gather the top, freshest layer of powdered snow. Your kids will enjoy gathering up the clean snow to make it. They will also enjoy the prep work if you give them a chance.
2. Snowball Fight
For active kids (active adults too), a good old fashioned snowball fight is a fun thing to do in the snow and may be just what the doctor ordered for cabin fever. Build some shields, pick teams, and bombs away!
3. Snow Colouring
Break out the empty spray bottles and dish detergent bottles. Fill them with water mixed with a little food colouring. Make sure everyone has on old clothes in case of stains. The spray bottles work like airbrushes. Old dish detergent bottles work like a pencil. Recycled items rock. Find an even spot in the snow and start colouring. Be creative with the activity to do with snow! The kids will love this snow colouring idea and adults may too!
4. Snow Castles
Get out your summer sand toys! You can make snow castles like you would in the sand. Even clean, empty kitchen containers make great molds. The snow molds like sand at the beach would. Kids love this stuff!
5. Go Sledding
Again, for the active children, sledding is an old favourite. Be sure to monitor them so no one gets hurt. Pick an area that the kids won’t slide into roads, trees, or anywhere else they may get hurt. This activity to do in the snow can also be fun for adults, so get in the game with your kids. You may enjoy it!
6. Snow Angels
Yes, the snow angels are ever popular today, just as when we were kids. This is definitely one of the most fun activities to do in the snow with the family! This is a timeless activity to keep the little ones entertained in the snow. Lie down in a clear spot of snow, and just start waving your arms and legs. This one can be fun for adults too, especially those that are kids at heart.
Keeping kids and adults active with things to do in winter isn’t always an easy task. However, it doesn’t have to be impossible. These are only a few activities to do with snow for the family to enjoy. Be creative! Stay safe and warm. You can also try these 4 fun outdoor winter crafts or these 8 outdoor winter workouts for the family. Winter doesn’t have to mean that everyone is coupled up in the house with cabin fever til spring comes again.
Cookies and martinis are hits on their own at any holiday function. This Christmas Cookie Martini combines these two treats into one fa-la-la-la-la-labulos drink to sip while rocking around the Christmas tree with family and friends!
Decorated with a sprinkles rimmed glass makes this Martini the ideal Christmas party cocktail! This Christmas Cookie Martini recipe has Baileys Irish Cream, vanilla Vodka, Amaretto, Vanilla Coffee Creamer and Half & Half to make a Christmas cocktail that will surely be loved by your holiday party guests.
Dry Ice for Cocktails
Did you know ice plays an important role in how a Christmas drink with alcohol is created? Ice in cocktails helps to keep your drink cool. Cooling down a cocktail also enhances particular flavour profiles of the drink.
Ice also allows for the perfect dilution of alcohol to occur for the cocktail. Fresh and dry ice is the best to use to make this Martini recipe for Christmas.
What can you use instead of dairy in a Christmas Cookie Martini?
Dairy-based Coffee creamers may make your morning cup of joe taste smother, but some people are not able to consume it. Almond milk, soy milk, or an almond-based creamer can easily replace its dairy-based counterpart in a good holiday cocktail. Irish cream is one of the hero flavours in this Christmas Cookie Martini recipe. Dairy is a main component of an Irish cream liqueur, which may not be the right cup of tea for those who sip on it. What can be used instead of this popular liqueur? An almond-based cream liqueur or a “hard” oat nog made from oat milk can do the trick in this Christmas Cookie Martini!
How long do cocktails last in the fridge?
This Christmas Cocktail with Baileys can be pre-made two to three days in advance without the ice. You must store it in an airtight pitcher or container in the refrigerator until ready to be served to your guests. Make sure you only add the ice when you are ready to shake it before you serve it.
Christmas Cookie Martini Recipe
After making this Martini recipe, you will definitely agree that is the best holiday cocktail that you will serve your guests at your Christmas party!
Pour in the vanilla vodka, the Baileys, and the Amaretto (Disaronno).
Add the vanilla creamer and the half & half.
Coat the rim of a Martini glass with the vanilla icing by dipping the rim of the glass into the icing.
Roll the glass into the Christmas sprinkles.
Pour your Christmas Cookie Cocktail into the Martini glass.
Recipe Note
You can also swap the half & half for more creamer like heavy cream. This swap will make the Christmas cocktail super sweet!
How to make a Martini at home
If you would prefer the make the Martini cocktail, there are two general ways to whip up a martini. For those who love a clear look with a smoother flavour to their drink, a classic – or stirred – martini is the way to go. If you want your drink to be more diluted with the liquid being cloudier, then a shaken martini is the way to go! I have a martini recipe on the site that shared how to mix both types of these drinks for you to enjoy!
I hope you enjoyed this Christmas Cookie Martini as much I did! If you make the cocktail recipe, please share your photos with us on Facebook or Twitter! Also, check out all of our other Recipes!
Christmas Cookie Martini
Lyne Proulx
This Christmas Cookie Martini recipe has Baileys Irish Cream, vanilla Vodka, Amaretto, Vanilla Coffee Creamer and Half & Half to make the best holiday cocktail.
Pour in the vanilla vodka, the Baileys, and the Amaretto (Disaronno).
Add the vanilla creamer and the half & half.
Coat the rim of a Martini glass with the vanilla icing by dipping the rim of the glass into the icing.
Roll the glass into the Christmas sprinkles.
Pour your Christmas Cookie Cocktail into the Martini glass.
Notes
RECIPE NOTEYou can also swap the half & half for more creamer. This swap will make the Christmas cocktail super sweet!How long do cocktails last in the fridge?This Christmas Cocktail with Baileys can be pre-made two to three days in advance without the ice. You must store it in an airtight pitcher or container in the refrigerator until ready to be served to your guests. Make sure you only add the ice when you are ready to shake it before you serve it.
Having a baby is the most amazing gift any parent could have. However, all the joy can be short-lived when reality sinks in. In addition to taking care of all the needs of a newborn, you must also face sleep deprivation, an oversized list of household chores and adapting to a new body and lifestyle.
According to a meta-analysis published in Frontiers in Psychology, the transition to parenthood can decrease marital satisfaction, specifically in the first year postpartum. Keeping the spark alive might feel like the last of the priorities when basic needs, such as sleep, are up there on the list.
Here you can find 5 ways to reconnect with your partner after having a baby, so you can nurture and strengthen your relationship as well.
1. Sleep
Changes in sleep patterns are one of the biggest challenges parents face when having a newborn. Lack of sleep not only causes stress and depression, but research shows that it has a negative effect on parenting and results in more marital conflict.
For this reason, after caring for the well-being of the child, parents should find ways of getting additional rest such as:
Taking turns during night shifts to allow each parent some time to recharge.
Creating a relaxing bedtime routine does not only apply to the baby, but also to the parents themselves. Taking a warm shower, practicing meditation, or listening to relaxing music can improve the quality of sleep.
Adapting to a baby’s sleeping pattern, even if it means going to bed earlier and having short naps during the day, can help you get those extra hours of sleep.
2. Cherish the small moments
Sometimes we tend to overlook family time. Being more mindful of the present can help us find joy and make more connections with our loved ones. Examples of these family moments can include:
Reconnecting through meal times. Even though having dinner might seem trivial, this space can provide a chance to catch up with your partner, communicate and create a feeling of engagement.
Creating a new family tradition can be an exciting opportunity to look forward to. You can start a weekly family activity such as a trip to the park, a family game night or a special weekly meal.
3. Schedule time together
Organizing date night can help you relax, give you a break from parenting and help rediscover the reasons that brought you together. At first, it might be difficult to arrange a night off, but you can ask for help from relatives and friends or alternatively find a qualified babysitter.
Setting 15 minutes a day to bond with your partner. After having children, couples might find it difficult to find time for each other. Even 15 minutes a day, over morning coffee, for example, can create a space to have meaningful conversations.
4. Communicate effectively
Parenting can be overwhelming and communication between couples sometimes must be relearned.
Timing is everything. Having a deep conversation might turn into an argument if you decide to start the talk after a night of poor sleep. Sometimes it is essential to hit the pause button and postpone the discussion when the time is more appropriate, which could make a big difference in the outcome.
Empathizing with your partner. After having children, couples might face new dilemmas and disagreements such as differences in parenting styles. No matter the subject of the conversation, putting yourself in your partner’s position is essential to find a compromise.
Practicing active listening. When your partner is speaking, listen carefully, limit interruptions, and show you are fully engaged. When in doubt it’s better to paraphrase or ask questions before jumping to conclusions.
5. Be kind to yourself
Postpartum recovery takes time. You need to learn to be patient and trust the healing process. Being kind to yourself can improve your mental health and enhance your marital relationship.
Nurturing your body and mind, through healthy eating, exercise, and mindfulness. Incorporate small habits into your daily routine such as: going for a stroll with the baby, meditating before going to sleep, and drinking enough water throughout the day.
Including self-care activities that energize you and bring you joy. You can squeeze in some me time and take a bubble bath, give yourself a facial or even meet up with a friend.
Using positive affirmations can help you see the glass-half-full and have a positive outlook toward the journey. When going through challenges, you can write simple affirmations on paper, such as “You got this! Things will get better!” and put them somewhere visible.
Practicing gratitude. Even though you might feel exhausted, by practicing gratitude you can look at the positive side of things. You can keep a gratitude journal, and write down something you are grateful for each day.
Asking for help from family and friends when needed. You should not feel guilty to reach out for help:“It takes a village to raise a child”. Moreover, there are online support groups you can join, where you can find other parents going through the same challenges. When struggling with postpartum depression, contact professional help.
Having a baby will test your relationship, there’s no doubt about it. Taking a proactive approach in order to reconnect with your partner is essential to overcome challenges and to build a strong foundation for your family.
Are you looking to make the holiday season fun and enjoyable for your season? There are a number of ways you can create a lifetime of memories! There are some Christmas traditions that families have passed down for generations and you can choose to create your own, if you wish. These are 5 ideas for making new Christmas traditions!
1. Make decorating a family tradition. From picking out a tree together at the farm to stringing lights and hanging ornaments, decorating can be a lot of fun and put the whole family in the holiday spirit! You can decorate indoors and out. You can make your own decorations if you’re into crafts.
2. Start before Christmas is upon you. Making out Christmas cards together as a family or driving around your area to see all of your neighbours’ Christmas lights every year can be so much fun. You can enjoy the holiday season for as long as you want leading up to and even after Christmas day.
3. Do something active together as a family. Winter is a great time to take part in winter sports! You might want to consider going ice skating, skiing, or snow tubing together around Christmas time. Even just a walk together can be a great way to enjoy the holiday season and get some exercise and bonding time.
4. Create something together! Whether you make homemade ornaments, family friendly drinks, or bake cookies, you’ll have lots of fun making something together as a family.
5. Don’t forget about Christmas Eve. You might watch a favourite holiday movie together each year, play board games or write a special letter to Santa and leave it with his cookies and milk.
How to Create Your Own Christmas Traditions
These are just some ideas on how to make your own Christmas traditions. You can use these, or add to them, or use them as a springboard to create family Christmas traditions for the holidays.
Which Christmas traditions have you created with your family? Comment below!
Are you thinking ahead to Christmas morning breakfast already? This year I am planning to make a spread of tasty dishes to share with my family this year and I have 15 easy Christmas morning breakfasts to share with you. This collection has something for everyone, from easy casseroles to heart healthy baked oatmeals. I am sure you are going to find a few recipes that would be perfect for your family.
Christmas morning breakfast
Christmas is such a fun and busy holiday. With so many gifts to give and open, family to hug, and classic Holiday movies to take in, you need to have a good breakfast to fuel the festivities. This collection of recipes has some of the best Christmas morning breakfasts to serve your family this year. After checking out these links, I know you are going to be inspired to skip the bowl of cereal and try a hot and hearty breakfast.
The holidays are usually such an indulgent time of the year that I like to opt for something lighter for breakfast, that is packed with protein for our family. I know we will get more than our fair share of sweet cake, cookies, pies or decadent appetizers as the day goes. When decorating the Christmas breakfast table, you can make it look super fancy for the holidays with these tips that we wrote.
15 Easy Christmas Morning Breakfasts
Be sure to click thru the links below to save the full recipes for these easy Christmas morning breakfasts. I can’t wait to hear which of these recipes for Christmas morning breakfast you would like to try first.
15 Easy Christmas Morning Breakfasts
I have 15 easy Christmas morning breakfasts to share with you. This collection has something for everyone, from easy casseroles to heart healthy baked oatmeals.
Even if you are not a breakfast person, you will appreciate how simple this donut casserole with chia seeds is to make for Christmas. You'll especially love it!
French Fruit Crepes are so delicious and easy to make for Christmas morning breakfast. Simply fill them with fresh fruit, ricotta cheese, and top with whipped cream.
Hope you enjoy these 15 Easy Christmas morning breakfasts as much as I did! If you have an idea for a Christmas Breakfast, please leave a comment so I can add your favourite dish to my must make list.
TekyGo! is more than just the top toy of the holiday season. It’s a way for your kids to discover their imagination, feel enriched, and gain all new skills. TekyGo! is changing play time, one active toddler at a time!
TekyGo!
TekyGo! was created by a team passionate about gaming and Education. The TekyGo! team is looking to change the way kids play and learn, in order to allow children to develop a more healthy relationship with screen time.
Based out of Markham, Ontario, the minds behind TekyGo! have an extensive background in the gaming industry, and all of the games added to their library are developed, written, and brought to life in-house, right here in Canada.
The TekyGo! mission is to assist parents in encouraging their children to become more confident and imaginative. After all, playtime is about more than just pressing play.
WHY TEKYGO! FOR YOUR CHILD?
Watch as your kids establish all new skills, build self-confidence and most importantly, explore the corners of their imagination alongside their new friend! The extensive TekyGo! game library and collapsable Junior Bouncer trampoline work in tandem so active toddlers can jump into an all-new world!
To make it more fun for your kids, TekyGo! is committed to releasing a new game every 2 weeks! The games will also include levels that get progressively more challenging for your children. TekyGo! is available to ship in Canada and in the United States!
TekyGo! offers a free subscription option that includes a rotating selection of games that is updated every month. You can also purchase the monthly premium subscription at a fee of $9.99 CDN or $7.99 US.
HOW TO SET UP TEKYGO!
It’s super easy to set up your TekyGo!:
1. Head to the portal to release TekyGo!
2. Download the App
3. Connect your TekyGo! Portal to your TV and set up your accessories
4. Plug in your sensor and get your little ones moving!
TekyGo! will also work with any trampoline, so if you have your own, all you need is the sensor! You can also connect to the internet for access to hidden features and games.
Are you looking for a way to add more nature into your crafts and decorating? This collection of pine cones projects features some of the best ideas for crafts to do with pine cones!
From a giant pine cone garland that is nothing short of gorgeous to a cute craft for the kids that makes some fun little snow owls. I am sure you will find plenty of projects to do with pine cones in this collection!
Are pine cones edible?
While you are picking up pine cones for your craft project, you might be wondering if they are edible. Pine cones are really interesting little things! Did you know that Pine cones belong to a group of plants called gymnosperms and date back to prehistoric times. Pine cones contain a nut, but only about 20 varieties of pine cones are large enough to harvest and be edible.Pine nuts are quite tasty too, so if you are lucky enough to have access to those types of cones, enjoy!
Ideas for pine cone decorations
I selected options for adults and children, so this list of pine cones projects has something for everyone! Using pine cones in crafts is a great idea for keeping your supply costs down while offering an exciting medium in craft time, regardless of your age. I think this variety of ideas for pine cone decorations will have your family happily using pine cones in crafts all autumn long.
12 Pretty Pine Cone Projects
If you are on a budget and want to make some homemade Christmas decor, or if you are just looking for ideas for pine cone decorations; I have you covered! I gathered some of my favourite ideas from bloggers to share with you. Make sure you click thru to their sites to view the full tutorials. Then head outdoors and start looking for some pine cones so you can make your favourites from this list.
Pine Cone Projects
This collection of pine cones projects features some of the best ideas for crafts to do with pine cones all autumn long.
These snowy owls are adorable, and they are made from a pine cone! How cute is that?
I hope you enjoyed these pine cone projects as much as I did! If you make pine cone crafts, please share your photos with us on Facebook or Twitter! Also, check out all of our crafts you can make with the family!
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