At Home With Valerie

(Family Features) While traveling more, losing weight and quitting bad habits are annually among some of the most popular New Year’s resolutions, the turn of the calendar does represent a perfect opportunity to better yourself in multiple ways. The impact of taking steps toward a healthier lifestyle – from committing to eating well, sleeping better, drinking cleaner water or boosting your nutrient intake – can be far-reaching, but also overwhelming. Gradually incorporating the health-focused habits you hope to make permanent fixtures in your life can help ensure the process isn’t overly taxing, and some products can help ease the transition as well. Find more tips to help keep you on the right path toward reaching your wellness goals at eLivingtoday.com . New Year, Cleaner Water When adopting health-focused resolutions like staying hydrated, it’s also an opportunity to commit to drinking cleaner water. The easy-to-install PUR Advanced Faucet Filtration System makes it simpl

(Family Features) Each new year gives you the chance to reset and start new routines. When you’re considering new approaches to healthy living – whether eliminating or adding habits to improve your daily life – beginning with your home is an optimal choice. Your living environment has a strong influence on your life, and it’s worth evaluating how you can make updates that create a positive space for you and all that the new year will bring. Consider these ideas to refresh your home and simplify your housecleaning routine so you can spend more time focusing on your goals this year. Start by Decluttering It’s practically impossible to get excited about a fresh start when you’re surrounding by last year’s junk. Make decluttering and purging unnecessary items a top priority for your refresh. Clear counters and tables to create more inviting surfaces and force yourself to assess which items are worth keeping. Get rid of items you don’t need by donating, selling or disposing them

May the Christmas season fill your home with joy, your heart with love and your life with laughter. Wishing you a very Merry Christmas and all the best in 2020. Sincerely, Valerie McConville

(BPT) - Planning and food prep for the holidays are underway so you're probably creating grocery store lists and considering which favorite family recipes to cook this year. No matter what you're serving, there's one thing that can elevate foods from good to great: a delicious gravy. Making gravy doesn't have to be complicated and time-consuming. You can get the best turkey gravy in 5 minutes using two simple steps. The trick is to use a gravy mix because it provides a fool-proof, deliciously smooth gravy without worry. Here's how to do it: Perfect turkey gravy Makes 15 servings Ingredients: 2 packages McCormick® Turkey Gravy Mix1/4 cup flour3 cups water1 cup turkey pan drippings or turkey broth1 cup chopped cooked turkey giblets (optional)Instructions: Step 1: Mix Gravy Mix and flour in large saucepan. Gradually stir in water and turkey drippings or turkey broth with wire whisk until smooth. Stir in chopped turkey giblets, if desired. Step 2: Stirring freque

(BPT) - The holidays are full of family, friends - and lots and lots of food. And while we love getting together with all our loved ones, the thought of coming up with a meal that pleases everyone can be a bit frightful. But with a little prep work, planning, and new healthy takes on cooking and baking staples, making meals that satisfy everyone is now joyfully easier. Make Everyone Happy The not-so-secret ingredient that brings a rich, creamy taste to any dish - is butter, of course. But when your not-eating-dairy-this-week cousin and more-butter-the-better sister are both coming to dinner, you need to come up with the one dish that makes them both happy. Give yourself a gift by swapping out dairy butter for Country Crock® Plant Butter. It tastes like butter, but is dairy-free, plant-based and has less saturated fat than dairy butter. Now everyone's happy - including you! Twist-up A Classic Mashed potatoes without heaps of butter? Never! Here's to holiday indulgenc

(BPT) - Are you looking for fun ways to spend time with loved ones this holiday season? Crafting DIY decorations is a perfect way to do so, providing an opportunity for you to get creative and make cheerful and festive pieces you'll cherish all season long. Another perk of making delightful holiday creations is making memories - which is what the season is really about. So, fill your mugs with cider or hot cocoa and get ready for some holiday happiness with these three easy DIY decor projects the whole family will enjoy! Project 1: PEEPS® Marshmallow Trees Centerpiece Pro DIY tip: PEEPS® Marshmallow candies aren't only a tasty treat, but they're also an adorable addition to crafts and recipes! With seasonal marshmallow shapes such as Snowmen, Trees, Reindeer and Gingerbread Men, the opportunities to craft are endless.  This fun and festive centerpiece will adorn your table and be enjoyed by all of your guests this holiday season. Items needed: * 6x6&qu

(BPT) - According to the National Retail Federation, 41.4 million people shopped exclusively online from Thanksgiving Day to Cyber Monday in 2018. As the holidays approach, online shopping will continue to grow in popularity, helping families spend more time celebrating the season and less time struggling through long disorganized lines, fighting massive crowds of frantic shoppers, and worrying about whether that must-have gift will still be on shelves at the mall. While online shopping offers up a convenient way to purchase holiday gifts, many consumers are concerned about their delivered packages going missing. Ensuring your online holiday purchases are securely delivered can make your cyber shopping experience even more rewarding and stress free. Here are five tips that will keep your packages safe and your holidays happy. 1. Get deliveries straight to your garage with Key by Amazon Online retailers such as Amazon serve as a popular holiday shopping destination. This season you

(BPT) - The holiday season is full of celebration, social activities and spreading good cheer by exchanging gifts. The problem is gift giving can get expensive if you're not making a plan and monitoring your spending. A happy holiday doesn't have to mean stressing about finances or going into debt. You can enjoy the holidays and save money with some smart strategies for gift giving on a budget. Create a gift list: Are you feeling pressure to get gifts for everyone? Thoughtfully consider who's on your list this year. While a gift may be appropriate for some people, others might simply prefer to spend some time together rather than exchanging gifts. Perhaps invite someone over for lunch or plan a cookie exchange with friends. Make a budget early: Deciding on budget limits for your holiday gifts will help guide your spending. You might have an overall holiday budget and then a specific budget to target for each person on your list. Then, with your gift list in hand and b

(BPT) - No matter what holiday shoppers are looking for this season, there are two things on everyone’s list: saving time and saving money . Whether you’re making memories with friends and family, or enjoying some JOMO ( joy of missing out ) cozied up with a holiday flick and treat, we all wish we had more time over the holidays. Picking out the perfect gift for everyone on your list can also be a drain on your free time — and your wallet — with The National Retail Federation predicting that holiday spending will increase approximately 4% this year. This holiday season, simplify your shopping with these six easy tips so you can save both time and money and get back to enjoying “the most wonderful time of the year” with family and friends.   1. Set a budget — and stick to it. With shoppers expected to spend more this year, setting a budget will be as important as ever, and a great first step in managing holiday spending. Sticking to your budget can be difficult, but there ar

(Family Features) Adding a four-legged friend to the family is no small decision, and it’s easy to get distracted by sweet eyes pleading to be taken home. Becoming a dog parent is a major commitment, so it’s important to do your research and make well-informed choices before deciding on a new dog. No matter what stage of acquiring a dog you’re in, educate yourself about your options. A resource like Be Dog Smart, an online tool designed to guide consumers through the process of looking for a dog, can help you every step of the way, regardless of whether you’re considering getting a dog from a professional breeder, pet store, friend, family member or adopting from a shelter or rescue. By asking the right questions, researching credible sources and requesting transparency from those who provide companion animals, you can rest assured you are taking the right steps to bring home a new furry family member. Take smarter steps to bring your new fur-baby home with these tips from th

(Family Features) While the impact of winter weather varies across the country, nearly all Americans are affected in some capacity each year as temperatures drop, from freezing rain to severe blizzards. One of the key dangers when severe weather strikes is the potential loss of heat, power and communication services. Making a portable generator part of your family’s emergency plan can help keep your loved ones safe and warm in the event of an unexpected power outage. While they can provide reliable back-up energy for portable heaters, help prevent food spoilage and allow for access to radio or television for news and weather updates, portable generators must be used properly to avoid carbon monoxide risks. Newer generator models that comply with the American National Standards Institute/Portable Generator Manufacturers’ Association (PGMA) G300 Standard include carbon monoxide sensors and shutdown features to help protect your family from dangerous carbon monoxide buildup and pois

(Family Features) While cats can be quite independent animals, they still rely on their pet parents to maintain their well-being. It’s up to pet owners to provide the adequate care, nutrition and home environment to ensure their furry friends live long and healthy lives. Consider these tips and visit temptationstreats.com and iams.com for further guidance on raising healthy and happy cats. Designate a Special Spot – Make sure your cat has a space in the home where he can be unbothered and relax. This space can also be somewhere your cat can hide or snuggle up. Putting a cat tree with a lookout in a quiet spot can give your pet a perfect place for a catnap. Provide a Healthy Diet – Diet is a vital part of your cat’s health and wellness, and it’s important to find a food that caters to your pet’s specific needs and preferences. Look for food that fits your cat’s needs like senior care, hairball control and oral care, so he receives the best nutrition at every life stage.

(Culinary.net) If you need an on-the-go breakfast option, wake up your morning with bacon, eggs and a biscuit in these simple, tasty Breakfast Sandwiches. Find more on-the-go recipe ideas at Culinary.net . Watch video to see how to make this recipe! Breakfast Sandwiches 1          can (16 ounces) buttermilk biscuits 1          package (12 ounces) bacon 8          eggs 1/4       teaspoon salt 1/8       teaspoon pepper 1          tablespoon butter 1          green bell pepper, chopped 1/2       onion, chopped 5          slices cheese Heat oven to 350° F. Place biscuits on baking sheet. Bake 12-16 minutes, or until golden brown. Cut bacon slices in half. In skillet, cook bacon until crispy. Drain and set aside. In large bowl, whisk eggs, salt and pepper. In skillet, melt butter. Pour egg mixture into skillet. Add bell pepper and onion. Cook until eggs are thoroughly cooked but still moist, stirring occasionally. Add cheese over egg mixture and mix thoroughly

(Family Features) Many new parents spend hours preparing for the arrival of a new baby – reading books, seeking professional advice and consulting friends and family. However, in focusing on birth, they may not get to prepare for other big milestones, like the transition back to work. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, more women are returning to work than ever before – more than 70% of women with children under 18 are in the labor force.  However, data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention suggest new mothers may not be getting the support they need from health care providers, family members and employers to meet their breastfeeding goals. “Parenthood is complicated on its own,” said Melissa Gonzales, executive vice president of the Americas for Medela LLC. “Adding in a full workload is something that many new mothers take on within weeks after birth.  With nearly two-thirds of moms going back to work after baby, there is a clear need to be

(Family Features) One of the most difficult conversations in a person’s life typically takes place near the end of that life. Planning for a funeral can put an emotional strain on family members and friends, but some of the stress can be relieved when the most common questions have answers. Start by examining your options. While funeral homes generally have similar offerings, they can also vary quite a bit in pricing and other amenities. It’s important to choose a funeral home you feel comfortable will meet the emotional needs of your family members and be sensitive to your budget. Speaking with a funeral director to assist in planning and preparing for memorial services once you’ve settled on a funeral home is one of the easiest ways to find clarity during a stressful, often confusing, period of time. Consider these five common questions funeral directors are asked, along with advice and direction from the experts at the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA):

(Family Features) The autumn season offers plenty of reasons to celebrate: nostalgic flavors, pretty leaves and a seasonal wardrobe change. Fall also typically features event calendars full of festivals, trips to pumpkin patches and hikes to take in the crisp air. While taking advantage of all the season has to offer, there are also ways to incorporate your furry friend into your favorite fall activities. Consider these tips for making the most out of the season, and visit temptationstreats.com and greenies.com for more information on treating your pet. Get Cozy with Your Pet If the sound of a good book when the weather cools piques your interest, try making a day of it. You may not be basking in the sun, but a cup of warm cider or a pumpkin-spiced drink can help you appreciate the feeling of fall. Bring your pets in on the relaxation by helping them get cozy, too. Find extra blankets and open windows to let them observe any squirrels or neighbors that might pass by. Your pup

(Family Features) Few traditions are as popular on Halloween as picking out the perfect costume. This haunting season, think outside the box – literally – and use boxes from your recent deliveries to create a unique DIY costume, or “boxtume.” Boxtumes are a perfect way to express your creativity and stand out at any spooky gathering. Plus, they can be a fun way to get crafty with family and friends to create costumes for children, adults, couples and groups that can be as simple or elaborate as your imaginations desire. For example, this DIY Ice Cream Truck Boxtume just requires supplies like cardboard boxes, tape, paint and glue, allowing your personality to shine through with customization. With households across the country already taking advantage of Amazon Prime’s unlimited fast, free shipping and entertainment benefits, your costume inspiration could be just one click (or box) away. If you’re feeling extra crafty this season, try upcycling those smile boxes to craft o

(Culinary.net) Halloween calls for candies and treats of all kinds as trick-or-treaters roam neighborhoods, but don't forget to stock your own snack supply with homemade goodies. Skip the store-bought sweets this year and instead opt for ideas like these that can be whipped up in the comfort of your own kitchen. Party Mix   As one of the easiest recipes you could imagine, a Halloween-themed party mix simply calls for your favorite snack-type foods tossed together in a group-sized bowl or individual containers. You can try just about anything from candy corns and miniature chocolates to pretzels, popcorn and more. Spooky Cupcakes   Kid-friendly treats are the name of the game when it comes to Halloween, and there's almost no better way to get children involved in the kitchen than with some personalized decorations. Bake your preferred cupcakes - chocolate or vanilla - then call on the kiddos to use icing and toppings for creepy custom creations. Pumpkin Pie  

Family-friendly recipes for breakfast, lunch and dinner   (Family Features) Morning routines, homework, practices and more are all part of back-to-school season, and even when time is short, flavorful meals can be, too. Whether it's breakfast and dinner together as a family or sending your little learner out the door with a nutritious lunch, making tasty recipes in your own kitchen doesn't have to be a drain on an already busy schedule. With dishes like a new take on French toast to a quickly packed lunchbox and bolder burgers, you can keep your loved ones fueled for everything the school year brings your way. For more back-to-school recipes, visit Culinary.net .   Freshen Up Family Breakfasts A truly beneficial start to the day is usually centered around breakfast. Start your family on the right foot with a meal that delivers sweet flavor along with nutritious fruits. This Honey Leches French Toast recipe swaps out syrup for hot honey combined with the crisp ta

(Family Features) When it comes to family fun, it's hard to beat Halloween, and with all the candy flying around, it's an opportunity to add something nutritious and delicious to festive celebrations. Chocolate milk can provide the best of both worlds. It satisfies kids' sweet tooth while providing all the nutrients of classic white milk, like calcium, vitamin D and high-quality protein to help keep little skeletons strong, making it a Halloween h it for kids and parents alike. Carve out some quality time to make memories during the eeriest time of the year with this Scary Sweet Cemetery - including chocolate pudding, gummy worms and sandwich cookies - to get kids cooking and crafting, all while nourishing their bodies and bones with nutritious chocolate milk. Visit MilkLife.com for more kid-friendly, DIY Halloween treats. Scary Sweet Cemetery Recipe courtesy of MilkPEP Servings: 6 Pudding: 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder 2 tablesp

(Family Features) For fans and athletes alike, fall means gearing up for a new season of sports activities. While plenty of attention goes into developing skills and talent, other important components that affect an athlete's performance can be overlooked. Especially considering the demands of an athlete's training and game schedule, getting adequate sleep is often an afterthought. However, a lack of sleep can significantly affect athletes' performance both on and off the field. Sleep quality, efficiency and duration all may decrease just before competition, limiting opportunities for athletes to get the optimal quality and quantity of sleep their bodies need due to intense practice and game schedules, according to research published in "Sports Medicine." The same research found sleep can affect several aspects of an athlete's performance. Skills that require endurance tend to be more affected by sleep deprivation than short-term, high-power activities. R

(Family Features) A kitchen serves as command-central of most homes, so it's also one of the first rooms homeowners choose when it's time to make upgrades. When approaching your kitchen remodel, it's important to keep your family's lifestyle at the forefront of your planning to create a space that fits the way you like to live. Get the most livable space and enjoyment out of a kitchen remodel with these tips from the experts at the National Association of the Remodeling Industry: Make purposeful changes. A desire to bring your kitchen's style up to date is plenty of motivation for a renovation, but to get maximum benefit from your new space, spend time considering what functional improvements you can make, too. Do you need more cabinets for storage? Is there enough counter space for meal prep? Does the overall layout suit your family's needs? Even if you chose the original layout and floorplan, chances are good that over time you've found a few things y