4 Tips for a Productive 2021

(Family Features) This year has taught many workers a thing or two about being productive when offices and homes blend into one.

As the calendar turns to 2021, consider these key products and processes to stay productive next year.

Find a system (and stick to it): Creating an organizing system is an easy way to ensure your at-home workspace is ready for optimal productivity. Designate space to house all your work items – a drawer, cabinet or box – and keep work items organized by type (pens, papers, computer gear, etc.) At the end of each day, transitioning to “offline hours” can be easier when you have a place to stow your work items.

Start your day clean: Studies have shown cleanliness has a direct impact on productivity. Yet, many people struggle to find the time and energy to clean, especially at the end of a busy day at home. An option like The DEEBOT T8 from Ecovacs provides a hands-free cleaning experience, complete with the time-saving benefits of an all-in-one robot vacuum and floor mop, along with TrueDetect technology to avoid tangling in small objects. Easily controlled via an app, just set it to clean before bed and wake up to a tidy workspace.

Break up your day: With so many hours at home in front of a computer, workdays can get a little monotonous. Break up the day to make working from home feel as “normal” as possible – shower in the morning, take a walk or drive to coffee then make time for at least two breaks throughout the day. Some people have found success with the Pomodoro Technique, which is breaking your day up into 25-minute chunks of work, with 5-minute rest periods. If you continue to work until you feellike taking a break, odds are you’ll overwork yourself until it’s too late to take the “big break” you had in mind.

Bookend your days with mindfulness: At the beginning and end of each workday, do a 3-5-minute mindfulness meditation. Before signing on to work for the day, allow your mind to fully focus on the day’s tasks at-hand. Signoff by doing another mediation to end the day and let go of any worries or stresses you might have. Incorporating this tactic into your daily routine can help create a natural boundary from work and home while also restoring peace of mind.

Find more solutions to help maintain productivity at ecovacs.com/us/blog/productivity-tips.

 

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

SOURCE:
Ecovacs

MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE!

I would like to extend my warmest wishes to you and your family at this wonderful holiday season!  I truly hope that you have a VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS!

THE TRADITION OF THE CHRISTMAS TREE - HOW IT ALL STARTED

Christmas Trees - Decorated trees date back to Germany in the Middle Ages, with German and other European settlers popularizing Christmas trees in America by the early 19th century. 

A New York woodsman named Mark Carr is credited with opening the first U.S. Christmas tree lot in 1851. A 2019 survey by the American Christmas Tree Association, predicted that 77 percent of U.S. households displayed a Christmas tree in their home. Among the trees on display, an estimated 81 percent were artificial and 19 percent were real.

Source: www.history.com

"YES, VIRGINIA, THERE IS A SANTA CLAUS"

 "Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus" is a line from an editorial called "Is There a Santa Claus?" The editorial appeared in the September 21, 1897, edition of The (New York) Sun, and has since become part of popular Christmas folklore in the United States. It is the most reprinted newspaper editorial in the English language.

In 1897, Dr. Philip O'Hanlon, a coroner's assistant on Manhattan's Upper West Side, was asked by his then eight-year-old daughter, Virginia O'Hanlon (1889–1971), whether Santa Claus, a legendary character, really existed. O'Hanlon suggested she write to The Sun, a then prominent New York City newspaper, assuring her that "If you see it in The Sun, it's so." 

Virginia O’Hanlon’s original letter to the Sun

In so doing, Dr. O'Hanlon had unwittingly given one of the paper's editors, Francis Pharcellus Church, an opportunity to rise above the simple question and address the philosophical issues behind it.

Here is veteran newsman Francis Pharcellus Church's reply to Virginia's letter: 

Virginia, your little friends are wrong. They have been affected by the skepticism of a skeptical age. They do not believe except [what] they see. They think that nothing can be which is not comprehensible by their little minds. All minds, Virginia, whether they be men's or children's, are little. In this great universe of ours man is a mere insect, an ant, in his intellect, as compared with the boundless world about him, as measured by the intelligence capable of grasping the whole of truth and knowledge.

Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus. He exists as certainly as love and generosity and devotion exist, and you know that they abound and give to your life its highest beauty and joy. Alas! how dreary would be the world if there were no Santa Claus. It would be as dreary as if there were no Virginias. There would be no childlike faith then, no poetry, no romance to make tolerable this existence. We should have no enjoyment, except in sense and sight. The eternal light with which childhood fills the world would be extinguished.

Not believe in Santa Claus! You might as well not believe in fairies! You might get your papa to hire men to watch in all the chimneys on Christmas Eve to catch Santa Claus, but even if they did not see Santa Claus coming down, what would that prove? Nobody sees Santa Claus, but that is no sign that there is no Santa Claus. The most real things in the world are those that neither children nor men can see. Did you ever see fairies dancing on the lawn? Of course not, but that's no proof that they are not there. Nobody can conceive or imagine all the wonders there are unseen and unseeable in the world.

You may tear apart the baby's rattle and see what makes the noise inside, but there is a veil covering the unseen world which not the strongest man, nor even the united strength of all the strongest men that ever lived, could tear apart. Only faith, fancy, poetry, love, romance, can push aside that curtain and view and picture the supernal beauty and glory beyond. Is it all real? Ah, Virginia, in all this world there is nothing else real and abiding.

No Santa Claus! Thank God! he lives, and he lives forever. A thousand years from now, Virginia, nay, ten times ten thousand years from now, he will continue to make glad the heart of childhood.

Church was a war correspondent during the American Civil War, a time that saw great suffering and a corresponding lack of hope and faith in much of society. Although the paper ran the editorial in the seventh place on the page, below even one on the newly invented "chainless bicycle", it was both noticed and well received by readers. 

According to an anecdote on the radio program The Rest of the Story, Church was a hardened cynic and an atheist who had little patience for superstitious beliefs, did not want to write the editorial, and refused to allow his name to be attached to the piece. More than a century later it is the most reprinted editorial in any newspaper in the English language. 

Every year, Virginia's letter and Church's response are read at the Yule log ceremony at Church's alma mater, Columbia College of Columbia University.

Virginia's letter is today is a reminder to us all that there is still a little magic and a bit of childhood within all of our hearts. So, in the spirit of Christmas, I would like to extend my warmest wishes to you and your family during this wonderful holiday season!  I truly hope that you have a VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS.

5 LESSONS IN LIFE FROM DR. SEUSS

 

A PRAYER FOR THE HOLIDAYS

Dear Friends,

 

As we enjoy the holiday season, I wanted to take a moment to reflect on the season when family and friends gather, and the big picture in terms of how we're all expected to get along on this increasingly crowded planet of ours.

 

The holidays often put people around the table who may not normally see one another throughout the year. Far flung relatives, cousins, in-laws, and other guests-of-guests may come from all walks of life. Their political, religious, and social viewpoints may differ widely from our own. Yet when we see them during the holidays, we do our best to tolerate differences. Ideally, we look for ways to connect rather than provoke arguments.

 

Tolerance is not always the easiest value to embrace. Now, especially, we can find ourselves thrust into polemic arguments driven by political and media forces which command enormous attention and influence. Social media and a profound lack of face-to-face interaction makes it easier to distance ourselves from our mutual, essential humanity if we let it. It is easy to be intolerant. Easy to erect high walls. Easier than ever to segment and align ourselves with only those who agree with our values and sense of our role the world.

 

I would gently urge everyone to see the holidays as more than a time to buy gifts, give thanks for our blessings, and eat sweet treats. Let us remember to practice tolerance, acceptance, and recognize the importance of diversity in this world.

 

With hope and gratitude,

 

Valerie McConville 

 

DECEMBER'S HOME MAINTENANCE TIPS

 

THE SECRET TO LIFE

 

A Difference-Making Disinfectant

(Family Features) With a need to protect your home and family like never before amid the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s exceedingly important to ensure your spaces are properly disinfected, which means bacteria and viruses are completely inactivated or destroyed.

Consider these steps to disinfect surfaces with an option like Original Pine-Sol Multi-Surface Cleaner. The disinfectant received approval from the Environmental Protection Agency for kill claims against SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, after third-party laboratory testing proved the disinfectant’s efficacy against the virus when used as directed on hard, nonporous surfaces.

To learn more, visit pinesol.com/covid-19-resources.


 

SOURCE:
Pine-Sol

Make the Most of Holiday Gatherings This Year

(Family Features) The holiday season may look different this year, but family, friends, gratitude and good food never go out of style. This year, you can make the most of your intimate holiday gatherings with new traditions, cooking shortcuts and creative ways to keep friends and family close, no matter how far apart you are. For more information and ideas to spice up your holiday meal this season, visit BobEvans.com.

SOURCE:
Bob Evans

HOME BUYING 101

 

REMEMBRANCE DAY, NOVEMBER 11, 2020

 In Flanders fields the poppies blow

Between the crosses, row on row,

    That mark our place; and in the sky

    The larks, still bravely singing, fly

Scarce heard amid the guns below.

We are the Dead. Short days ago

We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,

    Loved and were loved, and now we lie,

        In Flanders fields.

Take up our quarrel with the foe:

To you from failing hands we throw

    The torch; be yours to hold it high.

    If ye break faith with us who die

We shall not sleep, though poppies grow

        In Flanders fields.

BY JOHN MCCRAE

UNDERSTANDING THE SIGNS OF CARBON MONOXIDE POISONING IN PETS

(Family Features) In most pets, the signs and symptoms of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning are nonspecific and could easily be attributed to other illnesses. To protect yourself and your pets from the dangers of CO, it’s important to keep working alarms throughout the home, test and replace them as recommended and understands the signs. Learn more about protecting your two- and four-legged loved ones at Kidde.com.

SOURCE:
Kidde

SAFETY STEPS FOR SPOOKY FUN

(Family Features) Traditional family activities like trick-or-treating create fun moments and memories, but the effects of COVID-19 on this Halloween will bring about change for the spooky excitement.

You can still ensure a special night for your little ones and all the ghouls, goblins and ghosts in your neighborhood by following safety measures aimed at keeping everyone healthy on All Hallows’ Eve. Consider these tips for safe trick-or-treating from the experts at the National Safety Council and leading candy maker, Mars Wrigley.

Before

• Buy individually wrapped candy to hand out to trick-or-treaters. Fun-size packs are one of the easiest forms of candy for trick-or-treaters to grab and go.
• Create fun, individual candy goody bags for a no-touch option for trick-or-treaters.
• Make sure your yard is well-lit; replace any burnt-out light bulbs.
• Create signs encouraging trick-or-treaters to stay 6 feet apart and display them in your yard.
• Don’t hand out treats if you are not feeling well.

• Consider socially distanced options such as “trunk-or-treating,” during which prepackaged goodies are handed out, or a virtual costume parade. Alternately, you can use a tool like Mars Wrigley’s “TREAT TOWNTM,” an app-based digital experience for families to virtually trick-or-treat for real candy. It offers Halloween fans of all ages the ability to create personalized spooky avatars, customized decorations for your in-app “door” and the ability to “knock” on the doors of friends and family across the country. Visit Treat-Town.com to find more information.

During

• Make trick-or-treating care packs with hand sanitizer, disinfectant wipes and extra face masks.
• Help little ones clean their hands throughout the night.
• Maintain a distance of 6 feet from other groups of trick-or-treaters, allowing one group to collect candy at a time.
• Wear face masks and reflective tape or clothing and carry flashlights or glow sticks if you’re walking in the dark.
• Do “mask checks.” Stop in a safe place and make sure young children’s masks are covering their mouths and noses.
• Use sidewalks and crosswalks. Don’t cross the street between cars and be as visible as possible as drivers may be distracted.
• Consider setting up a grab-and-go “candy corner” for visitors, inclusive of hand sanitizer and treats.

After

• Wash your hands when you get home.
• Sanitize candy wrappers before eating or let it sit for 24 hours.
• Follow the “when in doubt, throw it out” rule. Throw away any candy that is open, ripped or has torn packaging, an unusual appearance or pinholes. Discard any homemade items made by people you don’t know.
• Watch for choking hazards. If you have a young child, make sure candy he or she collected isn’t a choking hazard. If it is, discard it.
• Keep candy away from pets, especially chocolate and sugar-free gum, which can be poisonous for your furry friends.

Handing Out Treats from Home
If you’re staying home to hand out treats to the superheroes, ghosts, princesses and other little guests that arrive on your doorstep, consider these ideas to encourage safety and fun:

• Minimize the number of hands reaching into a bowl. Find fun, hands-free ways to give candy to trick-or-treaters. You can place candy on your lawn or driveway, so trick-or-treaters don’t have to crowd around your front door, touch handrails or knock.
• Move out of the way any items that children could trip over and keep pets inside.
• Stand outside when handling treats, wear a mask and use hand sanitizer often. Consider keeping a large bottle of sanitizer near you for visitors to use as well.
• Allow one small group at a time at your door.
• Give out one set of treats at a time to minimize hands reaching into a common bowl. For example, fun-size packs of treats like M&M’s and SNICKERS offer plenty of options and are easy for trick-or-treaters to grab and go.

 

Photos courtesy of Getty Images

SOURCE:
Mars Chocolate North America

A FLAVORFUL FAMILY MEAL FOR FALL

(Family Features) Warm, delectable dishes go hand-in-hand with cool fall evenings when the crisp air sends you to the kitchen for a filling meal. Look no further than easy recipes like meatballs that pack fulfilling flavor to feed your family when the autumn temperatures dip.

These Grass-fed Beef Meatballs with Garlic and Herbs can be the perfect solution anytime you’re craving a warm, comforting meal. They’re made with New Zealand grass-fed ground beef, which provides an unrivaled taste. Grass-fed year-round, the animals roam and graze freely over lush green hills and pastures, resulting in lean, flavorful meat that tastes just as nature intended.

Paired with a tomato-based sauce, the meatballs are baked before being topped with Parmesan cheese and parsley then served hot for a dish that warms you from the inside-out. While preparing the meatballs, be sure to wet your hands prior to shaping them as it helps prevent the meat from sticking to your hands.

Find more comforting fall recipes at beefandlambnz.com.

Grass-fed Beef Meatballs with Garlic and Herbs

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4

Beef Meatballs:

• Oil
• 1 pound New Zealand grass-fed ground beef
• 1 cup fresh white breadcrumbs
• 3 cloves garlic, crushed
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 3  tablespoons milk
• 1 1/2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried mixed herbs, such as parsley, thyme and oregano
• salt, to taste
• pepper, to taste

Tomato Sauce:

• Oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2  cloves garlic, sliced
• 1  can (14 ounces) chopped tomatoes, in juice
• 1 1/2-2 cups vegetable stock
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 bay leaf
• salt, to taste
• pepper, to taste

To Serve:

• 1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup roughly chopped parsley leaves

1. To make beef meatballs: Preheat oven to 425 F.
2. Lightly oil deep baking dish or skillet. Mix beef, breadcrumbs, garlic, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, mixed herbs and salt and pepper, to taste, then shape into eight meatballs and place in prepared baking dish.
3. To make tomato sauce: In heavy saucepan over low heat, heat dash of oil and add onion and garlic. Cook until onion is soft, about 10 minutes. Add tomatoes, stock, tomato paste, sugar, bay leaf and salt and pepper, to taste.
4. Simmer 10 minutes to allow flavors to mingle and liquid to reduce. Remove from heat, cool about 5 minutes and remove bay leaf. In food processor, process until sauce is smooth.
5. Pour sauce over meatballs and bake 25 minutes, turning meatballs after 15 minutes.
6. Serve hot sprinkled with Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley.

SOURCE:
Beef + Lamb New Zealand

AN OUTSIDE-THE- BOX, DIY HALLOWEEN COSTUME COMBINATION

(Family Features) Even though Halloween may look a little different this year for many families, there are still ways to make the most of popular seasonal traditions, like costumes, spooky decor and festive treats.

Rather than venturing out to look for a costume, get creative at home with everyday craft supplies and delivery boxes to make unique, low-cost costumes – or “boxtumes.” Not only are boxtumes a simple way to save money by upcycling delivery boxes you’ve accumulated, but making them can be a fun activity for the whole family.

Your creations can be as simple or elaborate as you’d like. Turn an everyday hero into a Halloween superhero this year with a DIY Fire Truck Boxtume, or make it a duo costume perfect for siblings by adding a DIY Fire Hydrant Boxtume to match. With Amazon Prime’s fast, free shipping, any crafting supplies or candy you may need – and the box for your DIY creation – could be just one order away.

Share your upcycled box creations on social media using #Boxtumes, and find more inspiration and simple how-to guides at amazon.com/boxtumes2020. Members can also extend their spooktacular fun with Halloween-themed movies, books and music available through Amazon Prime’s entertainment benefits.

DIY Duo Firefighting Boxtumes

Projects courtesy of Michelle Nhu

Fire Truck Supplies and Instructions:

• Amazon Prime boxes, variety of sizes
• Scissors
• Paint brushes
• Red acrylic paint
• White acrylic paint
• Gray acrylic paint
• Hot glue
• Hot glue gun
• Markers, variety of colors (optional)

1. Have your child sit in different size boxes to find one that fits comfortably. Save other boxes for later.
2. Using scissors, cut out top and bottom of box to create truck shape.
3. Using reserved boxes and scissors, cut out two ladders, six medium circles and six smaller circles for wheels, rectangles for front and back windshields, six small squares for windows and equipment doors, four circles for headlights and seven thin rectangles for grill.
4. Using paint brush, paint large box mostly red or get creative and use separate paint brushes to paint white stripes down sides of box and half of front gray for grill. Then paint ladders, grill pieces and medium wheel circles black. Paint small wheel circles and equipment doors gray and windows and lights white.
5. Once paint dries, use hot glue and glue gun to adhere each piece to fire truck as desired. Use markers to outline windows and add dots to small wheel circles and equipment door handles, if desired.

Fire Hydrant Supplies and Instructions:

• 2 Amazon Prime boxes 
• Scissors
• Hot glue
• Hot glue gun
• 3 empty tape rolls 
• 1 cotton headband
• Red acrylic paint
• Black acrylic paint
• Paint brushes
• Blue pants or skirt
• Blue tulle (optional)
• Blue felt pieces (optional)

1. Select box that fits around your child’s torso.
2. Using scissors, cut box into eight equal-sized rectangles.
3. Assemble rectangles vertically into octagon and glue together using hot glue and glue gun.
4. Using scissors, cut holes for arms on two sides of octagon. Glue two empty tape rolls to outside of arm holes and one on front to mimic nut on fire hydrant.
5. On flat piece of another box, draw dome shape that will fit your child’s head. Use scissors to cut it out then glue bottom to stretchy, cotton headband.
6. Using paint brush, paint cardboard pieces red. Use separate brush to paint black stripes on corners of octagon.
7. Once paint dries, boxtume is complete. On blue pants or skirt meant to mimic water, glue pieces of blue tulle and blue felt pieces to look like water droplets, if desired.

 

Photo courtesy of Amazon

SOURCE:
Amazon

HAPPY THANKSGIVING CANADA!

 

Sending you my warm wishes from home to home and from heart to heart to wish you a very Happy Thanksgiving! May this day be a beautiful reminder of the wonderful things in life.

 Disasters often strike without warning. Is your home prepared?

 🍁 Fall is a great time to sell.

FIRE PREVENTION WEEK: OCTOBER 4 - OCTOBER 10, 2020

Did you know cooking is the #1 cause of home fires and home fire injuries?! Fire Prevention Week is here and the theme for 2020 is safety in the kitchen. 👨‍🚒👩‍🚒🚒 #FirePreventionWeek #Firefighters #FireSafety #homesafety

 

GET PRE-APPROVED BEFORE BUYING A HOUSE

Getting pre-approved doesn’t just give you an idea of how much house you can afford, it also lets sellers know you’re a serious buyer. With more houses receiving multiple offers, a pre-approval letter can be a key factor in a bidding war, and you don’t want to miss out.

BENEFITS OF DOWNSIZING INTO A SMALLER HOME

 

SEPTEMBER 21st WAS THE FIRST DAY OF FALL

 

DIY HOME IMPROVEMENTS

 A little sweat equity can really pay off when it comes time to sell your home. 

CREATING A STABLE BACK-TO-SCHOOL ROUTINE FOR CHILDREN

(Family Features) If there’s one thing parents know, it’s children thrive on routines. When it seems like everything is changing, routines can create stability.

“When children know what to expect, they don’t feel powerless and out of control,” said Rashelle Chase from KinderCare Learning Centers’ education team. “Children like to plan just as much as adults do. When they know what will happen next, they can set their expectations.”

Routines can also help children regulate their emotions – and avoid meltdowns or outbursts – because their days follow a pattern and are predictable. There’s typically a sense of comfort in knowing what comes next.

Whether your child’s back-to-school routine includes actually going to school or distance learning, consider these tips to help create a sense of stability.

Set a schedule
Talk with your child about his or her school day and how it will be different. Work together to come up with ways you can both ease into the new routine, whether your child is attending school part time, learning at home or going to a childcare center or program. Remember, little things can help create a sense of routine and stability. Even if your child is learning at home and could stay in pajamas all day, something as small as getting dressed in school clothes and brushing teeth before sitting down for lessons can signal it’s time to study.

Be flexible
The things that make school fun – whatever that may be for your child – aren’t at home. However, there are some things you can do at home, like eat a snack while studying or play with toys, that you cannot do at school that make learning more enjoyable. Be sure to build breaks into your child’s day. Knowing there will be something fun after the next lesson can give your child something to look forward to and help him or her settle down to complete the task at hand. Plus, those breaks can be an opportunity for parents to get some work done, too.

Talk with your child and with his or her teachers: Perhaps those 30 minutes of reading don’t have to be done midmorning when your child is restless. Instead, maybe your family could do 30 minutes of reading before bed when your child is calmer.

Talk it out
Nearly everyone is experiencing strong emotions right now whether it’s in reaction to an abnormal start to the school year or other factors that impact daily life. The difference is adults can contextualize a situation and adjust their reactions. Children haven’t yet mastered those skills, so they react based on whatever nugget of information they have.

Home is a safe place for most children, which means they know they can express their feelings freely. That may mean slamming laptops or books down in frustration, yelling or using hurtful words. Your child might be upset because he or she doesn’t understand the schoolwork or might be afraid for safety or the safety of loved ones during these uncertain times. Talk with your child about his or her feelings and work together to find healthy ways to express those emotions, like taking three deep breaths or using a physical activity to vent, instead of keeping those feelings pent-up inside.

Difference and change don’t have to mean chaos and uncertainty. With a bit of thought and a stable routine, parents can help their children have an enjoyable, productive school year. Find more tips for creating stable routines for children at kindercare.com.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

SOURCE:
KinderCare

SEPTEMBER HOME MAINTENANCE TIPS

 

BACK TO SCHOOL SUPPORT

Providing teachers and families tools for in-person and at-home learning

(Family Features) The COVID-19 pandemic presents many new challenges for this back-to-school season, particularly for teachers and families as they prepare for a new normal whether it’s in a traditional or virtual classroom.

With 90% of teachers paying for supplies out of their own wallets, Clorox is helping ease the burden of an unprecedented school year by donating $1 million to ClearTheList Foundation to provide resources teachers need to set students up for a successful year ahead – wherever they’ll be learning.

Visit Clorox.com/Support-Our-Teachers to learn more about the initiative, find tips and resources for this back-to-school season and enter for a chance to win $5,000 for your family plus $20,000 for your local school.

SOURCE:
Clorox

HOW TO HELP YOUR CHILDREN COPE WITH THE PANDEMIC

(BPT) - By Dr. Bela Sood, MD, child and adolescent psychiatrist and senior mental health policy professor at Children's Hospital of Richmond at VCU.

This pandemic is unlike anything we've ever experienced, so how can we help our children cope, especially when we're also feeling anxious? The key lies in acknowledging our own fears and concerns, while understanding how each individual child handles emotional challenges.

Parenting is hard. Parenting during a pandemic can feel especially challenging as you balance changes in work, home and school. Here's how you can provide support and reassurance, whatever your child's stage of development.

Start with yourself

Even infants pick up on their parents' moods, so your emotional state will affect how your children cope.

As instructed on airplanes, during turbulence you should put on your own oxygen mask before helping others. The same is true of turbulent times: Take care of yourself first.

Reflect on how you feel: Are you angry about disrupted routines? Worried about the future? Missing loved ones? When you're stressed, practice self-care: Exercise, meditate or talk with a friend. This will help you feel more "centered" so you can model calm, positive attitudes and behavior.

Limit media exposure 

It's easy to become overwhelmed by negative news. Stay with your children during news reports and encourage them to ask questions. Limit your own exposure too, as it can affect your mood.

Consider your child's stage of development

Babies and toddlers won't understand what's happening, but they respond to emotional cues. Though it's not always easy, if you can stay calm and positive, they're more likely to relax.

Maintain routines, as all children thrive on predictable schedules. Knowing when to expect meals, playtime and bedtime helps them feel more safe and secure.

Preschoolers have many questions about everything, but keep your explanations simple. Discuss the virus as being like a very bad cold or flu when explaining why everyone is wearing masks or why they can't go on play dates.

Validate your child's feelings by saying, "I understand you're upset right now," or "It's okay to miss grandma. I miss her too."

Let your children connect with others safely. Make video calls to relatives or socialize with a small group of neighbors outdoors while practicing social distancing. Help your child write letters to friends.

School-aged children are more peer-oriented, but they still appreciate spending time with parents. It's a great opportunity to start new hobbies together, while also letting them pursue their own interests.

If your children appear anxious, angry or sad, encourage them to talk about it. Share how you're feeling, too. Establish a weekly "check-in" dinner where everyone has a turn to express their feelings.

Include children in chores and activities that give them a feeling of control. Let them assume responsibilities like folding laundry or cleaning, offering choices about what activities they prefer.

Teenagers are beginning to separate psychologically from their parents, so being forced to be together all day can be tough on them, as well as on parents! Older teens are missing out on significant milestones, like homecoming, sports or performing arts, which may be important parts of their identities.

Put yourself in your teen's shoes. This period is hardest for teens who derive energy from peer interactions. Show empathy by saying, "This must be so disappointing for you." Help them find creative ways to make this time memorable and connect with peers who practice social distancing. The weekly family dinner may be the perfect time to listen to your teen and problem-solve together.

Warning signs

It's normal for kids to occasionally seem sad, anxious or angry. Encourage them to voice their feelings and acknowledge that it's okay for them to feel that way.

If your child becomes increasingly withdrawn, disconnected or obsessed with video games or other self-isolating activities, it may be a signal that they're preoccupied with worries about the future or other topics. Try drawing them out to determine whether you should seek their pediatrician's advice. It's challenging to keep children entertained at home 24/7, so don't be too hard on yourself. Offer additional social support from close friends and relatives.

If you think it would help them to get counseling and they're reluctant, tell them that when you're in trouble, you seek help. Let them choose whether to participate or not. If your child is unwilling to talk to a counselor, you may find it helpful to see a therapist to share observations of your child, get a better understanding of what may be happening and develop strategies to support them.

For the latest on COVID-19 and resources to support your family's mental health, visit chrichmond.org/covid-resources.

5 TIPS TO ACE COLLEGE ENTRY EXAMS

(eLivingtoday.com) Because most colleges and universities require applicants to submit ACT or SAT results as part of admissions consideration, prepping for the test itself can be a critical component of that process.

While it can oftentimes be hard to deal with the anxiety that comes with a rigorous test meant to show your mastery of certain subjects and concepts, such as reading and mathematics, consider these test prep tips to help boost your score while simultaneously lowering stress.

Register Early
To allow yourself as much flexibility as possible, taking college entrance exams during your junior year of high school is encouraged. If you don’t get an ideal score, you can refine your approach and retake the exam with a better idea of what to expect.

Take a Practice Test
Any test prep plan should start with a practice SAT or ACT exam. Taking practice tests under realistic conditions can help you gain a better understanding of the content of the test, improve your time management and help combat test anxiety. You can use your practice test as a baseline to set goals and focus the rest of your prep on areas you would like to improve before the real thing.

Sign Up for a Prep Course
If you find studying on your own difficult or not as successful as you’d hoped, a prep course can put you through the paces and hold you accountable. Complete with homework and in-class practice, prep classes can range from small groups to larger classes taught by test experts. Some school districts even offer after-school programs dedicated to ACT or SAT prep.

Gather Supplies
To help reduce test day stress, gather everything you’ll need the night before. Check the list of banned items – cellphones aren’t permitted – to make sure you don’t accidentally bring something you’re not allowed to have. Ensure your bag is packed with your admission ticket, valid photo identification, several sharpened pencils with erasers, an approved calculator (with fresh batteries) and a watch, if allowed.

Get a Good Night’s Sleep and Eat Breakfast
While it can be tempting to stay up late the night before the test to cram, you’re likely to perform better with a full night’s sleep. Sleep is important for retention, and eating a balanced breakfast before heading out the door can aid in your ability to focus. To make your morning easier, prep breakfast before bed to keep an early morning from starting even earlier.

Remember, the college admissions process involves more than just test scores. Visit eLivingtoday.com for more education tips and information.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images
SOURCE:
eLivingtoday.com

ENCOURAGING YOUR CHILDREN TO READ

You can spark your child’s imagination with reading, which allows playful creativity to take over and learning to ensue. Whether you, your child or someone else does the reading, there’s sure to be a memory produced, experience gained or knowledge added when there’s a favorite book or story involved. For more information on the importance of youth reading, visit rif.org.



SOURCE:
rif.org

SNACK HACKS THAT REALLY POP

(Family Features) If spending more time at home than usual has you reaching for snacks more often, keep some quick, flavorful options on-hand to help fuel you and your family throughout the day when hunger pangs strike.

One versatile pantry staple that can fit a variety of snack cravings: popcorn. With no artificial additives or preservatives, light and airy popcorn is naturally low in fat and calories, non-GMO and gluten free, making it a sensible option to enjoy one handful at a time or sprinkled with seasonings that satisfy your taste buds. A whole-grain food, popcorn has energy-producing carbohydrates and fiber, which can help keep you satisfied longer. Plus, it’s simple enough to make that kids can help in the kitchen by popping it themselves or adding toppings.

Whether you’re craving something sweet, salty, spicy – or nearly anything else – freshly popped popcorn can serve as the perfect base ingredient to simply mix in your favorite toppings or create more unique tastes by combining a variety of herbs and spices. For example, consider these hacks to add easy flavor:

• Pop it on the stove. Stovetop popping allows you to choose your toppings. Cover the bottom of a pot with a thin layer of oil and popcorn kernels, shake to coat, cover with a lid then turn on the heat. Once popping has slowed to 2-second intervals, remove from heat and add toppings.

• Add some sweetness. When you’re in the mood for something sweet, add a dash of salt and a pinch of sugar (or more to meet your taste) to a bowl of popcorn. Or add sugar to the pan before it’s popped, like this recipe for Sugar Corn.

• Melt some butter. For a classic taste treat, melt a little butter and pour over your bowl of popped corn.

• Satisfy multiple cravings. Pop a large pot of popcorn and divide it in half; top one half with sweeter toppings like honey, which is a key ingredient in Honey Matcha Popcorn, and the other with something savory, like nutritional yeast or dill. When hunger strikes, you’re ready, regardless of the flavor craving.

• Spice it up. Cayenne pepper and a blend of other spices can be sprinkled on popcorn to create a spicier snack like Cajun Corn.

• Add mix-ins. Add dried fruits, nuts or candies to a bowl of popcorn to make your own trail mix.

• Cheese, please. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese can make your snack a bit more substantial. Mix in some dried herbs like basil and parsley to create this Popcorn Con Pesto.

For more snack ideas that deliver on both flavor and nutrition, visit popcorn.org.

Sugar Corn

Yield: 8 cups

• 1/4       cup vegetable oil, for popping
• 1/2       cup popcorn kernels
• 1          pinch white sugar, plus additional, to taste

1. In medium pan, heat oil until hot.
2. Add popcorn to pan and sprinkle sugar over it. Add more sugar, if desired, to taste.
3. Cover and shake pan continuously until popcorn is popped.

Honey Matcha Popcorn

Yield: 12 cups

• 12        cups unsalted, unbuttered popped popcorn
• 1/4       cup butter
• 1/4       cup honey
• 1          teaspoon matcha green tea powder
• 1/2       teaspoon salt
• 1          tablespoon black sesame seeds

1. Preheat oven to 300 F.
2. Line large, rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. Place popped popcorn in large mixing bowl.
3. In small saucepan over medium heat, melt together butter, honey, matcha powder and salt, stirring until dissolved. Pour over popcorn; toss to combine. Spread onto baking sheet. Sprinkle with sesame seeds.
4. Bake, stirring occasionally, 25-30 minutes, or until popcorn is dry. Let cool completely before serving.

Tip: Matcha powder can be found in the tea and coffee aisle at supermarkets.

Popcorn Con Pesto

Yield: 5 quarts

• 5          quarts popped popcorn
• 1/2       cup butter
• 1          tablespoon dried basil leaves, crushed
• 1          teaspoon dried parsley, crushed
• 1          teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/3       cup Parmesan cheese
• 1/2       cup pine nuts (optional)

1. Place popped popcorn in large bowl and keep warm.
2. In small saucepan, melt butter; add basil, parsley, garlic, Parmesan cheese and nuts, if using.
3. Stir to blend.
4. Pour over popped popcorn, stirring well.

Note: Dried thyme or oregano, or combination of ingredients, may be used in place of basil.

Cajun Corn

Yield: 2 1/2 quarts

• 1/4       cup butter, melted
• 2 1/2    quarts popped popcorn, warm
• 1          teaspoon paprika
• 1/2       teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2       teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4       teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1          teaspoon lemon pepper

1. Heat oven to 300° F.
2. In bowl, pour butter over warm popcorn.
3. In separate bowl, combine paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, cayenne pepper and lemon pepper; sprinkle over popcorn. Toss to mix.
4. Bake 5-10 minutes for crispy popcorn.

SOURCE:
Popcorn Board

HOMEOWNERSHIP

Homeownership doesn’t just make your wallet happy. While the idea of buying a home can be overwhelming, I’m here to make it as easy as possible.

NEXT YEAR IS COMING

Be honest! This year has definitely been like none other.