As we age, we often find ourselves with increased leisure time, prompting moments of reflection on both our past and present lives. Personally, I take time to meditate on my experiences, cultivating a sense of gratitude for the present rather than dwelling on regrets. While my life has had its challenges, I recognize that these hardships have shaped my character and resilience.

Additionally, I have embraced my Christian faith, which has evolved over time; although I always believed in God, my spiritual awareness deepened as I transitioned from the carefree days of adolescence to the responsibilities of adulthood. 

This shift brings about inevitable changes, such as entering the workforce, starting a family, or grappling with the passage of time. Ultimately, this journey leads to greater wisdom and self-awareness, prompting us to contemplate our past, present, and future. I have learned that a strong foundation is essential for navigating the uncertainties that lie ahead.

My foundation is rooted in my Savior, Jesus Christ, who has supported me throughout my life, often without my awareness. It took me over sixty years to embrace Christ, but that moment marked the best decision I have ever made.

Upon surrendering my life to Him, I experienced an inexplicable peace that resonated deeply within my soul. This transformation also opened my eyes to the true significance of life, helping me discern what truly matters from what does not.

I have recently taken to reading the Bible, which I consider a fundamental guide for living. Each day, as I engage with its teachings, I discover not only deeper insights about myself but also a clearer understanding of my Savior and His purpose for my life. This journey has illuminated my future, dispelling any uncertainty I once felt about what lies ahead.

I engage with a daily journal that deepens my understanding of God's guidance in my life. Throughout my Christian journey, I have embraced the belief that my destiny lies not in my own hands but in those of my Savior. This realization brings me a profound sense of comfort.

You too can experience this sense of comfort. There is no longer a need to struggle with everyday challenges, anxiety about the future, or feelings of inadequacy that others may impose upon you. Instead, you will come to recognize your own significance and understand, deep down, that you possess inherent value.

No matter where life takes you or your current situation, remember that you are cherished, you hold intrinsic worth, and you have a unique purpose. When reflecting on your past, shift your focus away from regrets and instead celebrate your achievements. Use these accomplishments as a foundation to guide your future, looking forward rather than dwelling on what has already transpired.

Becoming aware of your true self is a profound experience, one that reveals the essence of who you are. This self-awareness is a precious gift, bestowed upon you by the Creator who knows you intimately. Even if you have not yet established a personal relationship with Him, rest assured that He loves and cares for you deeply, far beyond your comprehension.

It is essential to recognize that your existence holds significance; you have a unique purpose in this world. The gift of life is invaluable and cannot be repaid, yet you are not required to do so. Instead, focus on cherishing and appreciating what you have, for this gratitude will pave the way for a certain and peaceful future. This sense of tranquility is something I possess, and I believe it is attainable for you as well.

Wishing you abundant blessings and good health now and in the future.

Valerie McConville

A SPRING SPREAD ANY BUNNY CAN CREATE

 

(Culinary.net) With spring in the air, it’s the perfect time to invite guests over for a hopping party. It’s also a great opportunity to tackle that dreadful spring cleaning and spruce up your living spaces with vibrant decor for visitors to enjoy alongside a delicious recipe.

With this sweet, colorful table arrangement, your whole family can get into the spring spirit. From festive utensils, a bright centerpiece and cute snacks, your spring setup can be fresh and fabulous.

It’s simple to put together and easy on the budget. Pair it with appetizers or even a main dish for a full spring party spread that’s sure to impress.

Find more springtime recipes at Culinary.net.

Watch video to see how to create this Spring Table Spread!

Chick Cheese Balls

Recipe adapted from Hallmark.com
Yield: 10 chicks

• 1  package cream cheese
• 1/4  tablespoon garlic powder
• 1  tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2  lemon, juice only
• salt, to taste
• pepper, to taste
• 1 cup finely shredded cheddar cheese
• crackers
• carrots
• whole black peppercorns

1. Using mixer, combine cream cheese, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce and lemon juice. Add salt and pepper, to taste. Refrigerate mixture 1 hour.
2. Using fingers, form about 1 tablespoon of cream cheese mixture at a time into balls. Refrigerate 30 minutes on small baking sheet.
3. Before serving, roll each ball into shredded cheddar cheese to cover. Place each ball on round cracker.
4. Cut small triangles from carrots for beaks and feet. Press carrots onto cheese balls. Add peppercorns for eyes.

Carrot Utensils

• Orange napkins
• green plastic silverware
• green ribbon

1. Lay napkins flat on table. Place one of each utensil in napkin facing top corner. Wrap napkin around utensils. Tie ribbon around middle of napkin. Place in bowl or basket on table.

Spring Table Centerpiece

Recipe adapted from Craftmorning.com

• Jelly beans
• chocolate coated candy eggs
• marshmallow chicks
• fresh or fake flowers
• plastic or dyed eggs (optional)

1. Place medium bowl inside large dish. Pour jelly beans and chocolate coated candy eggs around bowl.
2. Add marshmallow chicks around dish on top of candies. Arrange fresh or fake flowers in center. Set on table as centerpiece. Place eggs around dish, if desired.

SOURCE:
Culinary.net

CELEBRATE EASTER WITH FAMILY-FRIENDLY FUN

 

(Family Features) Gathering for Easter means bright decor and flavorful food with those you hold nearest and adding some extra “egg-citement” to the holiday can come easy. Let your inner kid shine through with games and activities everyone can enjoy whether it’s at the kitchen table, in the backyard or gathered around for story time.

Hunt for Easter Eggs
Likely the most popular Easter activity of all, hiding plastic eggs full of candy and goodies for kiddos to “hunt” brings plenty of smiles and giddiness. Whether your gatherings typically take place in a family member’s backyard or a local park, it’s an exciting way to get youngsters outdoors for a friendly (yet probably competitive) game.

Bake Desserts
Every holiday comes with its own flavorful traditions and Easter is no exception. From sweet, fresh, fruity desserts to chocolatey delights, baking your family’s favorites is a fun way to bring everyone together in the kitchen. Assigning specialized roles in an easy solution for ensuring all feel involved. Little ones can gather and organize ingredients while older kids measure cups, tablespoons and teaspoons to show off their math skills. Finally, adults can handle cutting and cooking so safety comes first.

Decorate Eggs
Keep the fun in the kitchen by using eggs (real or plastic) as the canvas for creativity. Dyes are a popular choice, but you can also paint or simply use markers to decorate to your heart’s desire. Add final touches with glitter, fabric or ribbons to truly make your creation your own.

Enjoy the Outdoors
Depending on where you live, Easter often presents opportunities to celebrate outdoors. Turn back the clock with kid-friendly classics like tag, hide and seek, backyard sports and more. The best part: These beloved games are meant for all ages, meaning everyone in the family can get in on the fun.

Pass Down Family Stories and Traditions
Whether your loved ones live down the street or across the country, holidays bring people together. These moments spent sharing meals, playing games and looking back on the past are a perfect opportunity for passing down stories and traditions, from studying the family tree to sharing the secrets to favorite recipes. Encouraging elders to share their experiences helps ensure traditions are passed from generation to generation and connects the past to the present and future.

Find more Easter “egg-tivities” to share with your loved ones at eLivingtoday.com.

 

Photo courtesy of Unsplash

 

SOURCE:
Family Features

Healthy Habits for Your Home

 

(Family Features) If you’re like most Americans, health is an important aspect of your resolutions when each new year rolls around. While factors like diet and exercise are keys to healthy living, so are the ways you care for your home and belongings.

Your home living environment plays a major role in your health and comfort, so incorporating some new habits like these from the cleaning experts at Swash Laundry Detergent can help you establish a healthier lifestyle.

Control Air Quality
Especially during the winter months when your home tends to be closed tight, air can grow stale. Do your best to keep air quality strong by opening windows on mild days to circulate fresh air, using an air purifier to remove irritants and pollutants, frequently vacuuming and sweeping to keep floor dust and debris under control and regularly cleaning textiles that can trap allergens and other particles.

Scale Back Detergent Use
Using too much laundry detergent isn’t just risking buildup and unnecessary wear on your washer and dryer; it can also increase the residue and buildup in your clothes, which can lead to skin irritation and damage fabric faster. Using only what you need helps protect your belongings and your skin. An option like Swash Laundry Detergent, which features a Precision Pour Cap, dispenses the detergent for you, so you only pour what you need to effectively clean each load and fight stains. A single bottle of the ultra-concentrated formula – available in Simply Sunrise, Free & Clear and Pure Linen scents – washes up to 83 loads while taking up less space than traditional, bulky detergent bottles.

Make Use of Natural Light
When winter brings day after day of dark, dreary weather, it can take a toll on your mood. Brightening your living space with natural light can positively influence your emotional state while helping with your electric bill. If you’re concerned about privacy, utilize window treatments at night, but let the sunlight bring good cheer to your living spaces during the day.

Switch Bedding on Schedule
While you sleep, your body sheds oils, cells and elements you carry into your home like pollen. Sheets should be washed once a week on the hottest water setting your fabric will tolerate (check tags for laundering directions on your sheets before washing). If your schedule makes weekly washing, drying and remaking the bed unrealistic, consider having a couple sets you can rotate so you always have fresh, clean sheets waiting to remake your bed on laundry day.

Work Up (and Wash Out) a Sweat
The materials that keep you feeling cool and fresh by wicking away sweat can quickly get stinky, but over-washing can make them lose their shape and fade. Even so, washing after every use is a must. Washing workout clothes inside out exposes the surfaces that have absorbed sweat and body oil to detergent and agitation. Be sure to close zippers, buttons, clasps and other fasteners to prevent snags. Pre-soaking with equal parts vinegar and cold water can also help eliminate odors, and washing in a gentle, cold-water cycle and drying on low heat can help protect the fabric’s elasticity and wicking properties.

Start your year off right with more advice for healthy habits around the home at Swash.com.

5 Ideas for an Organized, Intentional Laundry Space

Having an organized and decorated laundry room can ease the weight of your to-do list and the tension you feel from the day-to-day grind. It can also help keep your laundry routine simple, orderly and organized. Consider these tips from the laundry experts at Swash:

1. Think like a minimalist.
Empty your laundry space and sort through what you need and what you don’t. Eliminating the extras leaves room to evaluate your space. Consider whether you could organize differently to make frequently used items more accessible and make the most of your storage space. Cutting down on clutter may even make it possible to incorporate shelves or cabinets that add stylish functionality.

2. Update your space with open shelving.
Open laundry shelves offer a sense of more space, and the horizontal lines can lend a sense of calm. For an easy and attractive upgrade, try hanging 2-3 open shelves within easy reach. If you’re hesitant about the open feel, limit to just one shelf for the everyday necessities and keep the rest of your laundry supplies out of sight in a complementing cabinet. Baskets offer another option for concealing your belongings, whether you use them on the open shelves or inside cabinets to keep things tidy and clutter-free.

3. Create a practical workspace.
Mundane laundry chores like folding can be more enjoyable when you have a comfortable, dedicated space for the job. An open counter or table that folds down from the wall gives you the surface you need to fold clothing within your laundry space without disrupting the rest of the house. Other ways to add practical space include areas for sorting garments that need special attention and a place to hang items that shouldn’t be dried in the dryer.

4. Use colors and materials that evoke calm.
Natural materials and a neutral color palette can lend to a more peaceful space. Lighter neutral colors reduce stress and anxiety, promote relaxation and can even make a space feel more expansive. For a calm, refreshing area, start with a base of white then add natural textures like woven baskets, faux or real plants and marble stone accents in the tile flooring or backsplash. Add a calming color like blue to evoke the tranquility of the sky or ocean, or consider green to incorporate the soothing effects of nature.

5. Invest in products that bring you joy.
Choose quality pieces that aren’t overly trendy and will stand the test of time. Consider how your investment of laundry decor, including your washer and dryer, will serve you in the space in the coming years.

 

Photo courtesy of Getty Images (woman making bed)

 

SOURCE:
Swash

3 Health Care Trends for 2023

(Family Features) With many people preparing for health and wellness resolutions in the new year, understanding the state of access to care and other patients’ booking choices may give a sense of optimism for 2023.

To examine the outlook for 2023, Zocdoc, a free platform where people can find and book in-person or virtual health care appointments across more than 200 specialties and 12,000 insurance plans, analyzed appointment booking trends and conducted a provider survey. The results are reflected in the report, “Healthcare Hope For the Holidays: 2022,” which provided three key insights.

Happier Providers, Happier Patients
Provider and health care staff burnout can have a negative effect on patient experience, and 52% of providers surveyed indicated they agreed or strongly agreed practices will face increased financial challenges in 2023. However, savvy providers and support staff are taking steps to run more efficient practices, including using technology. This saves providers time and stress, giving them more time to focus on patient care.

In 2022, positivity pervaded providers’ perspectives on technology:

• 64% of providers indicated they agreed or strongly agreed their scheduling software helped their practice run more efficiently.
• 57% agreed or strongly agreed their telehealth solution was easy and intuitive to use.
• 36% agreed or strongly agreed insurance verification and eligibility software helped their practice run more efficiently.

This perspective paints a positive picture for patient-provider relationships in 2023:

• 71% of providers agreed or strongly agreed scheduling software will help run a more efficient practice.
• 69% agreed or strongly agreed technology will help practices run more efficiently.
• 59% agreed or strongly agreed their telehealth solution will become more intuitive and easier to use.

Technology Can Speed Up Access to Care
Amidst the unprecedented landscape of labor and supply costs rising, and physician and staff burnout a reality, innovation is driving positive change for patients. With a growing number of people embracing technology as a driver of access to an improved health care experience, and patients and providers aligned on telehealth as a supplement to in-person care, there are reasons for optimism.

Expediting patients’ access to care by surfacing the 20-30% of appointments that become available last minute due to cancellations and rescheduled appointments allows Zocdoc to enable faster speed-to-appointment for patients, compared to the averages reported in the Merritt Hawkins 2022 Survey of Physician Appointment Wait Times.

• Cardiology: Typically 1-3 days with 39% seeing a cardiologist within 48 hours, compared to 26.6 days national average appointment wait time
• Dermatology: Typically 1-3 days with nearly 30% seeing a dermatologist within 48 hours, compared to 34.5 days national average appointment wait time
• OB-GYN: Typically 1-3 days with nearly 26% seeing an OB-GYN within 48 hours, compared to 31.4 days national average appointment wait time
• Orthopedic surgery: Typically 1-3 days with nearly 38% seeing an orthopedic surgeon within 48 hours, compared to 16.9 days national average appointment wait time
• Family medicine (PCP): Typically 1-3 days with 42% seeing a PCP within 48 hours, compared to 20.6 days national average appointment wait time

Looking Back to Look Forward
Unique, actionable insights into consumers’ health care behavior can be derived from 2022 data, providing a glimpse into what’s to come. Examining the industry’s journey affords the opportunity to predict what may continue to resonate in 2023.

For example, patients got back to regular care appointments after delaying or canceling appointments following the COVID-19 pandemic’s onset.

Additionally, telehealth usage declined in all specialties except mental health, moving virtual care toward being a specialty- and case-specific care modality. Consider these appointment trends from January-November:

• 18% of appointments across all specialties were conducted via telehealth.
• Excluding mental health, just 9% of booked appointments were conducted via telehealth.
• 88% of mental health appointments were conducted via telehealth.

To find more information or book an appointment, visit Zocdoc.com.

 

Photo courtesy of Adobe Stock

 

SOURCE:
Zocdoc

5 EXPERT TIPS FOR TACKLING STINKY WORKOUT CLOTHES

(BPT) - You've probably smelled it: Clothes from yesterday's workout, your kids' ball games, the contents of your spouse's gym bag. Few things are tougher to tackle than the stink from these kinds of clothes.

Why is that? According to the Cleveland Clinic, when bacteria that naturally occurs on your skin comes in contact with sweat, that mix can cause unpleasant odors. And that odor-causing bacteria grows in damp, warm conditions - so the longer the clothes sit at the bottom of a hamper or inside a duffel bag, the worse the smell gets.

Here are some expert tips to get even your family's stinkiest loads smelling fresh.

1. Wash the stinkiest clothes as soon as you can. The longer that odor-causing bacteria sits in the clothing, the more time it will have to grow - and smell even worse.

2. Give them some air. Especially if you can't wash workout clothes or athletic gear right away, air the items out in your laundry room instead of leaving stinky items in a damp, warm heap in a gym bag, basket or hamper.

3. Consider a pre-soak. If you can't wash smelly clothes right away, soak them in either a solution of white vinegar and cold water (one part vinegar to four parts water), or in a sink with one-half cup of baking soda mixed with cold water.

4. Use Lysol Laundry Sanitizer. A quick, easy and effective way to get clothes smelling fresh is to add Lysol Laundry Sanitizer to your laundry load. This liquid laundry additive is specially formulated to kill 99.9% of odor-causing bacteria when added to your laundry routine (when used as directed).

5. Give smelly clothes the cold shoulder. Hot temps in your washer - and dryer - can help the bad smells set into your clothes, so be sure to wash the stinkiest items in cold water, and use the lowest dryer setting rather than drying with high heat.

Passing the smell test

Did you know feet have over 250,000 sweat glands? This creates an environment where bacteria can thrive, which explains why socks can be among the worst smell offenders.

To test the effectiveness of Lysol Laundry Sanitizer, the company's scientists created the "World's Stinkiest Sock," using a synthetic formula that represents the worst foot stink, inspired by live, odor-causing bacteria. If Lysol Laundry Sanitizer can handle the World's Stinkiest Sock, it can handle your stinky loads, too!

Outside Boston's famed Fenway Park in September, actress, comedian, author and mom Rachel Dratch helped launch the #LysolLaundryChallenge, challenging consumers to try Lysol Laundry Sanitizer on their stinkiest laundry loads, or get their money back if they don't love the results. Fans had the opportunity to smell the World's Stinkiest Sock alongside a sock sanitized using Lysol Laundry Sanitizer

To learn more about the World's Stinkiest Sock and the #LysolLaundryChallenge, visit LysolLaundryChallenge.com.

5 FALL HOME MAINTENANCE TIPS: WHAT YOU DON'T KNOW CAN COST YOU

(BPT) - While home maintenance may seem pricey, being proactive about home upkeep can save more money by preventing expensive repair or replacement costs in the future - not to mention safeguarding against damage to your home. The hard part is knowing how often and what type of maintenance to do, and where to start.

According to State Farm, fall is the perfect time to take care of many jobs, whether by yourself or by hiring professionals. Here are some top maintenance tasks to help protect the largest investment you have - your home.

1. Check your smoke detectors 

According to the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), 96% of homes are now installed with smoke detectors. However, nearly 20% of them have non-working smoke alarms. The NIST estimates that if every home had working smoke alarms, deaths from U.S. residential fires could drop 36%. Why aren't these smoke detectors working? Primarily missing or dead batteries. Smoke detector batteries need to be replaced at least annually, not just when they chirp. The average claim from a home fire according to State Farm is $57,000. So buy some batteries, and replace those old ones.

2. Trim your trees 

Little known fact, you're responsible for the damage if a tree on your property falls on a neighbor's house. Or if a dead branch damages your home, it can result in a homeowner's insurance claim, meaning you have to pay the deductible. For peace of mind, trim the trees on your property every fall. Find tips on tree trimming at StateFarm.com/simple-insights/residence. If you prefer hiring a professional, contact your local State Farm agent and they can help you find an arborist with community roots.

3. Check washing machine hoses 

Did you know a washing machine hose holds 70 pounds of pressure? If it fails, it can spray 650 gallons of water per hour into your home. So if you're away for the weekend and a hose bursts, you may open the door to the equivalent of a 20-foot by 40-foot in-ground pool's worth of water, which can damage floors, drywall and personal items. Between June 2021 and June 2022, State Farm paid nearly $36.7 million to help customers recover from damage due to washing machine hose bursts, with an average claim of over $12,000. Hose maintenance is easy: Inspect the hot and cold washing machine supply lines monthly, looking for blisters, worn tubing, cracks or loose connections. It's best to replace supply hoses every 3-5 years.

4. Conduct a generator safety check 

A portable generator is handy equipment for when the power goes out, and regular maintenance will ensure that it works when you need it. First, always unplug and turn off all power to the generator. Examine the AC wiring and alternator to clear dirt and debris. Inspect the air intake system and replace the air filter. Oil in your generator needs to be changed every 25 hours of running, or one year unused. When you're ready to use the generator, take it outside to a well-ventilated area before starting up. Generators produce carbon monoxide from the exhaust and can cause serious injury or death if used indoors, in a garage (including with open doors) or even on a porch.

5. Maintain your HVAC 

One of the most critical items to maintain is your heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system. Regular maintenance helps keep the system in working order, extending the life of the system and saving on energy costs. According to HomeAdvisor, replacing an HVAC system costs from $5,000 to $10,000. To save money and extend the life of your system:

• Change air filters regularly. Set a reminder every few months to replace filters. Dirty filters can impede airflow and make the HVAC system work harder, decreasing efficiency and increasing energy costs.

• Schedule regular maintenance checks (spring/fall) from your local HVAC professional. Some HVAC companies and local utilities have service programs where you pay a monthly or annual fee and they will conduct semi-annual maintenance checks. Pros will check the thermostat, clean or replace filters, lubricate moving parts, check refrigerant levels, inspect the condenser and coils and investigate unusual noises. Reach out to your local State Farm agent for a list of reliable HVAC pros.

Take care of your home, so your home can shelter you and your family. These regular maintenance tasks will help reduce the likelihood of unpleasant surprises - and costs - to help give you peace of mind.