5 WINTER HOME SAFETY TIPS

(Family Features) When you see frost on the windows in the morning, feel the crunch of leaves underfoot and hear the roar of fire in the fireplace, old man winter has returned.

While you often hear about cold-weather fashion and beauty essentials, there is some maintenance your home needs too. Give your sanctuary some love with these five steps from the home safety experts at Kidde.

Clean Your Oven
Ranges and cooktops are involved in 62% of home fires, according to the National Fire Protection Association. Stovetops and ranges, in particular, caused 87% of home fire deaths. Particularly in the winter when comfort foods are prominent, it’s necessary to clean your oven and stovetop to remove grease and fat, which can ignite. Always keep towels and oven mitts away from hot appliances.

























Keep a Kitchen Fire Extinguisher Ready
Research from the National Fire Protection Association shows about half of all home fires start in the kitchen, so it’s important to have a fire extinguisher handy. Look for one specifically designed for kitchen applications, and keep the extinguisher behind you when cooking. In the event of a fire, there’s risk of burning yourself if you must reach over the fire to grab the extinguisher.

Know Holiday Lighting Rules
About 75% of holiday tree fires happen in December or January, according to the National Fire Protection Association, making now the perfect time to start being vigilant. Some rules of thumb: use flame-resistant decorations, utilize lights properly indoors or outdoors and look for electrical decorations that are approved by a nationally recognized testing lab such as UL, Intertek or CSA. Also avoid plugging more than three light strings into each other; opt for a power strip instead.

Check Your Smoke Alarms
Check your smoke alarms to ensure they are less than 10 years old. Winter and the holiday season are peak times for home fires, but according to industry experts, few realize smoke alarms need to be replaced at least every 10 years. In fact, common misconceptions about smoke alarm maintenance, such as hardwired alarms don’t need to be changed, can leave you more vulnerable.

Smoke alarms are just like every other appliance; they need replaced periodically. This includes units that are hardwired into your home, even if you have changed the batteries. If you’ve forgotten when the alarms were installed, check the date on the back of the smoke alarm. If you’re interested in a long-term fix, alarms are available with a built-in 10-year battery. When times comes to replace the unit, the alarm will signal.

Install Carbon Monoxide Alarms
On average, one person dies each day from carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning in the United States. CO is known as the silent killer because you can’t see, smell or taste this poisonous gas. During winter months, CO incidents spike but symptoms can easily be mistaken for the flu. Natural gas furnaces, water heaters, ranges, gasoline-powered tools, cars, wood-burning stoves, fireplaces and more produce CO. Because CO doesn’t rise like smoke, it mixes with the air and can go through drywall. From plug-in to battery-operated and LED display, CO alarms are available in a range of options. Install alarms throughout the home, particularly outside of sleeping areas.

Find more holiday safety tips and information at Kidde.com.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images (woman cleaning stove)
SOURCE:
Kidde

FOSTER A LOVE FOR LITERACY

(Family Features) Reading plays an obvious role in academic performance, but it’s also an essential life skill. Literacy and effective communication go hand-in-hand, and inspiring a child to embrace reading and writing can help open a world of opportunity.

Celebrate the importance of literacy and help the children in your life develop a love of reading with these ideas:

Make literacy a gift they’ll treasure. Few kids remember what toys they received or when, but many have special memories of the books they read as children. Whether you gift a book that’s a classic childhood favorite, a story that held special meaning for you or even a book dedicated to today’s popular characters, encouraging reading is a gift that can keep giving for a lifetime.

Do business where literacy is a priority. You can show your support for literacy by conducting business with retailers who not only support the cause, but also offer opportunities for the community to get involved. For example, The UPS Store is the exclusive sponsor of the Toys for Tots Literacy Program, which provides direct access to books and educational resources to the nation’s most economically disadvantaged children. Thanks in part to community contributions, the retailer has contributed more than $5.1 million, representing nearly 41 million books, to children across the country.

Plant seeds of interest. Kids are most likely to embrace reading when the topics they’re reading about capture their attention. Whether it’s comic books or chapter books, there’s no right or wrong source of reading material. If you’re not sure where to start, consider introducing books that come in a set or series. Once your children find a favorite, they’ll likely be eager to read additional books that take their favorite characters on new and exciting adventures.

Make reading a rewarding part of your routine. Encourage reading as part of your family’s everyday schedule. Wind down with a book at bedtime or make story time together a reward for good behavior. When you visit the store, make a visit to the book aisle just as exciting as a trip to the toy department.

Attend events that celebrate literacy. Each year, the Rose Paradecaptivates millions of viewers with floats that are as beautiful as they are inspiring. To culminate its annual Toys for Tots Literacy Program, The UPS Store, which won last year’s top parade prize, will showcase tamarin monkeys, an endangered species, alongside toucans, salamanders, butterflies and parrots to represent hope and strong community ties on its 2020 float titled “Stories Change Our World.”

In addition, the float was the inspiration for “Tell Your Tale,” a contest for young authors across the nation. The winning entries will be published in a special anthology book that will be handed out to 10,000 guests at the Post Parade: A Showcase of Floats event and available online.

For more information about youth literacy, including the contest, anthology and float, or to make a contribution to support literacy online, visit theupsstore.com/literacy.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images
SOURCE:
The UPS Store

REFRESH YOUR CHILD'S DIET WITH LOW-SUGAR OPTIONS

(Family Features) Many families look to the new year as a time to reset their eating habits and focus on making healthier choices. However, adults aren’t the only ones who could use a menu refresh as children may also need to focus on healthier food choices.

A study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention revealed children consume an unhealthy amount of added sugar every day. Researchers found nearly all of the toddlers in their study ate an average of 7 teaspoons of added sugar daily – the equivalent of a candy bar. Additionally, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics, excess sugar consumption can lead to an increased risk of obesity and type 2 diabetes.

“Small children have small stomachs,” said Courtney Hines, a nutritionist for KinderCare Learning Centers, which care for more than 165,000 children around the country every day. “You want them to fill up on nutrient-dense foods, not empty calories in the form of added sugar. When children consume lots of sugar, their palates get used to overly sweet flavors. They may not accept other, less sugary flavors or learn to appreciate the natural sweetness of a piece of fresh fruit.”

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends against the consumption of added sugar for children under the age of 2. Children ages 2-18 should aim for less than 25 grams, or 6 teaspoons, of added sugar per day.

For families that want to cut down on the amount of added sugar in their diets, Hines recommends cooking more at home, relying less on processed, packaged foods and serving only water or milk for beverages.

Consider these low-sugar ideas for meal and snack times to help control the amount of added sugar you and your family consume.

Dip Smart
Herbs, spices, citrus and fresh fruit add flavor without relying on the added sugars found in many popular sauces and dips. Consider making your own low-sugar alternatives at home so your family can still enjoy favorite flavors like these:

• Ranch Dressing – In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, buttermilk, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt and pepper for a kid-tested, nutritionist-approved take on a favorite dip. Serve over salad or as vegetable dip.

• Honey Mustard – Popular on a variety of sandwiches and as a dip or salad dressing, combining plain yogurt with milk, honey and regular or Dijon mustard can create a more family-friendly version.

• Teriyaki Sauce – Perfect for serving with healthier options like lo mein, chicken wraps or fried rice, a homemade version can be created using water, soy sauce, honey, ginger, garlic powder and cornstarch slurry.

Swap Out Syrup
Pancakes are a popular breakfast option at KinderCare centers and in many homes, but even the healthiest whole-grain pancake becomes a plateful of sugar if it’s doused in syrup. Hines recommends these toppings that are sweet and savory without the added sugar:

• Nut butter or seed butter (such as peanut, almond or sun) and banana slices

• Warm fruit compote (mix of warmed berries)

• Applesauce (no-sugar-added variety) and cinnamon

• Nut butter swirled into plain yogurt; mix in 1-2 teaspoons vanilla extract to add a sweet flavor

Snack Sweet
Opting for less added sugar doesn’t mean avoiding sweet snacks altogether. These alternatives can still help satisfy those cravings:

• Applesauce with baked cinnamon pita triangles for dipping

• Toast topped with nut or seed butter, smashed banana and sprinkle of cinnamon

• Frozen fruit smoothies

• Plain yogurt topped with granola, nuts, seeds or fruit

• Apple slices with nut or seed butter

For more ideas to introduce your children to healthy habits from a young age, visit kindercare.com.
SOURCE:
KinderCare

SUPER FOODS FOR A NUTRITIOUS DIET

(Family Features) The health community has long praised the benefits of vitamins and nutrients derived from natural sources. For those looking to improve their health or take preventative measures, these 10 natural super foods can be incorporated into your daily diet to help support your health:

Green Tea – Armed with a special type of antioxidants called polyphenols, green tea can decrease plaque formed in the arteries and can fight prostate cancer.

Rosemary – Studies have shown this powerful spice can reduce the risk of stroke, as well as protect against Alzheimer’s disease.

Almonds – Full of plant sterols and amino acids, almonds can help lower high cholesterol and promote muscle growth. These handheld treats are also rich in vitamin E, which can protect skin from sun damage.

Fatty Fish – Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, fatty fish such as salmon, flounder and sardines can lower the risk of heart disease.

Bananas – This easy, portable snack is loaded with essential potassium, which regulates the nervous system. Bananas also offer loads of vitamin B-6, which aids immunity and metabolism.

Whole Grains – These powerful body defenders have been known to boost immunity, protect against various cancers and reduce cholesterol.

Eggs – These energy-packed breakfast favorites contain a special type of protein that helps build muscle strength more than other proteins. When compared to other breakfast foods, eggs can also keep you feeling fuller longer with fewer calories and fat.

Spinach – Chock-full of magnesium, potassium and various vitamins and nutrients, spinach can prevent clogged arteries and protect against prostate and colon cancers.

Soy – This protein-packed food contains isoflavones, which can aid in treatment and prevention of prostate cancer. Also, research from the Food and Drug Administration shows that 25 grams per day can help lessen the risk of heart disease.

Dark Chocolate – Satisfy your sweet tooth and improve blood flow to the brain at the same time. Dark chocolate can also lower blood pressure and increase skin’s resistance to UV rays.
Find more health-conscious tips at eLivingToday.com.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images
SOURCE:
eLivingToday.com

LET TRENDS GUIDE YOUR 2020 TRAVEL

(Family Features) While there’s plenty to be said for taking the proverbial road less traveled, fellow tourists can provide a wealth of knowledge to help shape a vacation filled with lifelong memories.

Whether you expect your travel plans for 2020 to take you near or far, having a pulse on how and where others enjoy spending their travel time may help narrow down your options. Start planning your next getaway armed with the findings of a trend report compiled by vacation rental app and website Vrbo, especially when it comes to selecting a destination and your accommodations.

Unique Accommodations
Traditional vacation home favorites like beach houses, cabins and condos still reign supreme, but adventurous American travelers are staying in some unusual options. In fact, 71% of millennial travelers said they would consider staying at a non-traditional vacation rental.
In addition to barns, castles and treehouses, properties on wheels and properties that float join the ranks of unusual accommodations travelers are booking. Travel demand for houseboats, yachts, RVs and travel trailers is up 30% year-over-year.

Surf’s Up
Portugal’s reputation for affordability, primo surfing and sunshine-filled climate make the country a desirable place to explore. That may explain why seaside locales in Portugal took three of the top five spots on the list of hottest international beach destinations for American travelers. Chania, Greece, took the top spot, followed by three Portuguese destinations: Vila Nova de Gaia, Porto and Lisbon. Catania, Italy, rounded out the top five.

For those seeking to stay stateside, four of Vrbo’s top five United States destinations this year are beaches, including: Gulf Shores, Alabama; Miramar and Rosemary Beach, Florida; Panama City Beach, Florida; and Maui, Hawaii.

Same-City Stays
Rental demand data in Chicago, Philadelphia, Dallas, Atlanta and a number of other urban destinations showed the single largest traveler origin market for each city was that same city.

“‘Cele-cations,’ when people seek accommodations to host and spend time with groups of family and friends for milestone events like weddings, birthdays and anniversaries, may be fueling the trend of people booking vacation homes in the same cities where they live,” said Melanie Fish, Vrbo travel expert.

Also high on the trend list: short-stay, drivable destinations located within 300 miles of home.

Up-and-Coming Destinations
Their names may not be familiar to the masses, but each of the top emerging domestic vacation destinations shares one thing in common: outdoor appeal. Places that appeal to families and other groups of travelers looking to explore the great outdoors are seeing a major surge over the past three years.

If an outdoor getaway is your ideal trip, consider destinations like Terlingua, Texas, located just a short distance from Big Bend National Park; Bella Vista, Arkansas, situated in the Ozarks near majestic lakes; Westport, Washington, surrounded by a bay to the east and the Pacific Ocean to the west; Cherry Log, Georgia, which sits in the heart of Chattahoochee National Forest; and Edisto Island, South Carolina, a charming beachside retreat 1 hour from Charleston.

“This is the third year in a row travelers’ desire to be outdoors has filled the up-and-coming
destinations list,” Fish said. “Clearly, people want the comforts of a home away from home while soaking in scenery.”

Find the trends and accommodations that match your 2020 travel dreams at vrbo.com.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images
SOURCE:
Vrbo

TECH GIFTS CAN MAKE RESOLUTIONS A REALITY

(Family Features) While many people who make New Year's resolutions drop them within a couple weeks or months, pulling those newly received tech device gifts out of the packaging and putting them to good use may be just the help you need to keep your resolutions on track. Learn how to get the most out of your tech with these tips from the experts at Amazon.

Prioritize Personal Goals
The most common resolutions are centered around getting healthy or simply living life to its fullest. If you need help staying motivated and keeping your health goals on track, you may be able to rely on Echo, Fire TV or Kindle devices and a voice service like Alexa as partners in your personal health journey:

• Inspire you in the kitchen. Get some extra help or healthy recipe inspiration in the kitchen - just ask for "healthy recipes" - or catch on-demand episodes of food and cooking TV shows, and when you see a recipe you like, just ask to save it. You can also access live and on-demand cooking classes, get step-by-step cooking instructions and more.
   
• Create a bedtime routine. A good night's sleep is key to physical and mental help, and you can set up a nighttime routine with your smart home devices with options like a reminder to meditate, dimming the lights and turning on one of dozens of different soothing sounds to help lull you into a restful sleep that can be activated just by saying "good night."
   
• Prioritize some "me" time. Ask for daily affirmations to start on a positive note or ask for a guided meditation to take a break from a busy day. An e-reader like the single-purpose Kindle can be another companion for taking a moment to unwind from the hustle and bustle without the potential for interruptions from emails or texts. You can select from millions of books, newspapers and audiobooks, and adjustable lighting lets you read comfortably whether you're indoors or out, day or night.

Get Organized
You may be surprised by how a voice service like Alexa can bring some much-needed organization and peace of mind to your home.

• Set up routines. If you need to know the weather, traffic and headlines before you head out the door for work or want your coffee pot to start brewing as soon as your alarm goes off, you can create a custom routine with your smart devices.
   
• Create reminders. If it seems as if you are always forgetting to turn on the dishwasher or need an extra push to clean out the garage, set a reminder on your device to provide you with the audible motivation you need to get tasks done. Or, if you struggle to find time to get to the gym for a daily workout, set a reminder to launch a fitness app on your smart TV or streaming media player to get some exercise at home.
   
• Manage your shopping list. Missing an ingredient while cooking or forgetting the office potluck can be problems of the past. Maintain a list to help you remember groups of information, even if you're busy doing something else: Just say: "Alexa, add (item) to my shopping list." You can also view your shopping list in the app and check items off your list while at the store.

Find more tips for making the most of your tech gifts in the new year at amazon.com.
Photos courtesy of Getty Images
SOURCE:
Amazon

TOP 10 TRAVEL DESTNATIONS TO START THE NEW DECADE

(Family Features) For many, traveling offers an opportunity to disconnect from the everyday and experience new places and cultures. With the beginning of a new decade, it is the perfect time to start deciding your next travel adventures.

When booking your future destinations, consider these spots and tips recommended by travel expert and Bank of America ambassador, Lee Abbamonte, the youngest American to visit every country plus the North and South Poles.

England, Germany, Scotland, Azerbaijan and more

While technically more than one place, these locations have one thing in common: Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) Euro 2020. The international soccer event marks the first time the games will be held across the continent in 12 host cities.

“The year is a big one for sports,” Abbamonte said. “From sporting events in Europe to Japan, it is a fun year for travel and to enjoy once-in-a-lifetime experiences.”

Australia
From its deserts to tropical beaches, Australia is a beautiful country to explore. While many people might be familiar with the Sydney Opera House and the unique wildlife, there are many hidden gems in Australia.

“I’ve been to Australia 10 times and I still can’t get enough,” Abbamonte said. “One of my favorite cities is Melbourne. While it’s one of the largest cities in Australia, the heart of the city is hidden and secretive. It comes to life when you visit the alleys, laneways and arcades. The vibrant city has so much to offer: cafes, a unique street culture and street art.”

New Zealand
If you are going to New Zealand for the first time, Abbamonte recommends boogie boarding down the sand dunes, hiking up a volcano and visiting the Moeraki Boulders. However, if you are really interested in getting the blood pumping, take a leap from Nevis Bungy near Queenstown. It is among the highest bungy jumping experiences in the world, measuring 440 feet.

Mexico
“Mexico City has two of my favorite things – great food and sports,” Abbamonte said. “The street tacos are to die for, and I love going to soccer games at Estadio Azteca.”

In 2020, there will be many festivals to explore. The city is a cultural hub with music, theater, dance and food events throughout the year. While experiencing the festivities, it is also an opportune time to take a step back and enjoy Chapultepec Park.

Brazil
One of Abbamonte’s favorite waterfalls is Iguazu Falls located on the border of Brazil and Argentina. While Iguazu Falls might be well known, the falls themselves are truly unique. The waterfall system consists of 275 falls that stretch over approximately 1.68 miles. The Devil’s Throat is the tallest fall with a drop of more than 262 feet.

While traveling internationally can be fun and exhilarating, there are also places throughout the United States that offer memorable activities:


Scottsdale, Arizona
If you enjoy being outdoors, Scottsdale is an ideal place to visit. There are many trails to explore in Camelback Mountain, Papago Park and Hole in the Rock.

After hiking, follow Abbamonte’s example and golf at The Short Course at Mountain Shadows.

“Scottsdale has some of the most beautiful sunsets in the States, and from The Short Course at Mountain Shadows, I get to enjoy the view while practicing my swing,” he said.

Boston, Massachusetts
“I love sports, so I visit Boston regularly for the professional games,” Abbamonte said. “I’m also fortunate that Boston is a beautiful city I can enjoy along the way.”

Boston is one of the oldest cities in the country. Founded in 1630, Boston is filled with history, museums and universities. If you are interested in a more unique attraction, check out the Warren Anatomical Museum, which is one of the last of its kind in the United States.

Portland, Oregon
What makes Portland unique are the bizarre and wonderful things you can do when you visit. For example, you can try bone marrow ice cream, stop by Mill Ends Park (the world’s smallest park) or attach your wish to The Wishing Tree.

“Portland is absolutely beautiful,” Abbamonte said. “It has a bit of everything – restaurants, bars, parks – and I enjoy the people watching. Portland has some of the nicest people while maintaining an edgy vibe.”

Tampa, Florida
Tampa might be known for its spring break party scene, but it has so much more to offer. For example, the city’s zoos and aquariums provide opportunities to interact directly with animals. Then you can take a break at Clearwater Beach, which is known for its soft, white sand and calm waters.

Santa Barbara, California
“I go to Santa Barbara when I want to recharge,” Abbamonte said. “I enjoy the food, walking around, talking to the locals and even watching a football game or two.”

There are wine tours, zoos, beaches, museums and restaurants. While taking in the city, also make time to visit the hidden gems such as Knapp’s Castle ruins.

Financial Tips to Help Boost Your 2020 Travel

 

When booking a trip, almost half (44%) of Americans don’t use a rewards credit card that earns points or cash back, according to a Bank of America survey. No matter where you plan to travel, it is helpful to have a financial strategy in place to maximize rewards and help offset future travel costs.

• Use a credit card that allows you to earn and redeem points for travel such as the Bank of America® Premium Rewards Visa® credit card, which earns 2 points for every dollar spent on travel and dining purchases and 1.5 points for every dollar spent on all other purchases.

• Layer your rewards programs together to maximize points with each purchase. For example, when booking a flight and hotel package, include your frequent flier number (layer No. 1) and hotel loyalty program details (layer No. 2). Pay with a rewards credit card (layer No. 3) that’s eligible for bonus points with a banking rewards program (layer No. 4).

• A banking rewards program like Bank of America® Preferred Rewards lets you earn even more. Members receive a credit card rewards bonus of 25-75% on every purchase. For example, members in the Platinum Honors tier, the highest tier of the program, earn unlimited 3.5 points per dollar on travel and dining purchases with the Premium Rewards Visa® card and unlimited 2.62 points on all other purchases.

Find more solutions to make your travel goals attainable at bankofamerica.com/Premium.

SOURCE:
Bank of America

HAPPY NEW YEAR!