The study by researchers at the Stanford Graduate School of Business found those who believe in their own attractiveness view themselves as having higher social status. “The finding that your assessment of yourself shapes your view of yourself and others puts power into your hands,” the authors note.

Consider how these science-based suggestions may help you put your best foot forward when dealing with everything life throws your way.

• Get moving. Regardless of your fitness goals, the fact is you’re likely to feel better physically, emotionally and mentally after you exercise. Research also shows it can improve your self-esteem.
• Ramp up your smile. Scientists say our brains are zapped with an instant mood boost when we smile, and that boost is reinforced when others smile back. Further, whiter teeth can have a direct effect on our social and professional interactions, and they’re now easy to achieve through consumer brands like Rembrandt’s 1 Week Whitening Kit that can achieve professional-level results at home within a week.
• Let your body language communicate self-respect. Keeping your shoulders pulled back and your body straight and tall communicates confidence to your brain, studies show. Research found the most empowering stance is one in which your arms are held slightly away from your torso, your body is open and your head is up.
• Optimize color in your clothing. The right shade may light up your entire face and have a surprising impact on your mood. “Choosing the color of your office, your clothes or your desktop should not be taken lightly — colors do affect our moods and productivity,” states a recent article on Scienceofpeople.com. “When given the choice, picking a color that will work with you and not against you can only help.”
• Wear scent strategically. Because our brains link certain smells to positive experiences, research suggests we may be able to ramp up our confidence with scents that remind us of happy times. That’s why aromatherapy can help alleviate anxiety, depression and sleeplessness, and improve quality of life for those with chronic health issues, confirms the Mayo Clinic.
• Bottom line: When you’re taking care of yourself and projecting your best self, you’re far more likely to project the confidence you need to deal effectively with life.

“Confidence can make or break a lot of things,” advises Lecia Bushak on Medicaldaily.com. “In our extrovert-centric society, confidence can get you a job, a girlfriend, and the courage to say no to people or situations that are toxic to you. Confidence is knowing yourself and taking care of yourself, too.”

*BPT

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Winter got you down? Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is estimated to affect 10 million Americans, according to Psychology Today. Another 10 percent to 20 percent may have mild SAD.

Even if you don’t have diagnosed SAD, it’s not uncommon to have bouts of the winter blues. There are many reasons people experience a “winter funk:” cold weather, little sunlight, shorter days, limited outdoor activity, etc.

Additionally, between the months of November and March, the lack of vitamin D absorption from the sun can be taxing on your immune system and may also be contributing to your winter blues.

Dubbed “the happy vitamin” by some researchers, vitamin D could be the key to turning seasonal frowns upside-down. Maintaining vitamin D levels during the cold winter months may help keep you healthy during cold and flu season while also boosting your mood.

What’s more, vitamin D may help you maintain a healthy weight. It’s no secret that many people experience weight gain due to the flood of comfort foods available during cooler months. This, paired with lower physical activity, causes many people to put on a few winter pounds.

According to a study quoted in Men’s Health, a University of Minnesota doctor found that people with adequate vitamin D levels lost more weight than those with low levels, even though all study participants reduced their calorie intake equally.

To get all the benefits of vitamin D, start by adjusting your diet. Vitamin D occurs naturally in eggs and oily fish like salmon, tuna and mackerel, but it’s important to look for foods that contain even higher levels of vitamin D to naturally boost your intake, especially in the winter.

“Food is quite literally one of the best medicines out there when it comes to improving your mental and physical health,” says registered dietitian nutritionist, Dawn Jackson Blatner. “One of my favorite tips for boosting Vitamin D intake is to simply swap out ordinary eggs for Eggland’s Best eggs, since you’ll automatically get six times more vitamin D — it doesn’t get any easier than that!”

In addition to added vitamin D, Eggland’s Best eggs provide superior nutritional benefits such as 10 times more vitamin E, double the omega-3s, more than double the vitamin B12 and 25 percent less saturated fat than ordinary eggs.

A healthy diet that uses mood-boosting ingredients doesn’t have to be boring. Get creative in the kitchen and try new recipes featuring vitamin D-rich ingredients like this BLT Salmon Caesar Salad from Eggland’s Best and TheAlmondEater.com.

BLT Salmon Caesar Salad

Makes two servings

Ingredients:

1 salmon filet, baked and seasoned to your liking; 2 slices bacon; 1 Eggland’s Best egg (large); 5 cups lettuce; 1/2 cup tomatoes; 1 avocado, sliced; 1 cup croutons; 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons Caesar dressing

Directions:

Heat bacon in a skillet and cook completely; set aside and then cut or break into bite-­size pieces once cooled.

Soft boil the egg over the stovetop.

While egg is cooking, place lettuce in a large bowl and add tomatoes, avocado, croutons and cheese to the bowl; stir to combine.

Next, add the baked salmon to the salad, along with the bacon; add the Caesar dressing and stir to combine.

Last, add the soft-boiled egg and enjoy!

*BPT

The post Say goodbye to winter blues with vitamin D-rich foods appeared first on AKA Mom Magazine.

Think spring: Tips to find and grow your relationship with a landscape professional

The weather outside is frightful, and the week ahead calls for falling temperatures, maybe even snow. That makes it easy to dream of warmer spring weather, but to plan for it? To sit and strategize for making the most of next year’s lawn and landscape projects? That seems like no small feat.

It doesn’t have to be.

The good news is that spring will be here before you know it, and now is the best time to work with your local landscape professional to set the stage for a healthy spring. With the expertise and knowledge of a professional, you’ll be well on your way to get a thriving landscape you’ll enjoy come spring.

Finding the right professional for you

Quality lawn care and landscape professionals are all around you, but finding the perfect one can be challenging if you go it alone. Instead, consult the National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP) professional directory at www.loveyourlandscape.org/find-a-pro/. You’ll have access to the NALP’s comprehensive directory and can find inspiration through the organization’s expert advice columns and idea center, motivating you to take your spring landscaping projects to new heights.

Making the most of your relationship with your landscape professional

The initial conversations you have with your landscape professional are essential for creating a beautiful outdoor space. When working with a professional, you can become more prepared by considering the answers to these questions in advance of your first meeting.

• What’s important to you? You don’t need to know every last detail, but you should have a broad understanding of what you want. Do you want to entertain? Have space to garden or create a private area to enjoy quietly by yourself? Determining what you want your yard to be and how it will be used can help your landscape professional realize your vision.
• What’s your budget? When it comes to dreaming of the perfect landscape project, the limit is your imagination. But once you place some real-world practicality behind it, the limit will ultimately be your budget. So, how much are you willing to spend? It’s a good idea to have a rough estimate of this figure in your head before discussing plans with your landscape professional. Relaying this information to them will allow them to tailor a project that matches your expectations and your budget.
• What plants are best for your property? Flowers, shrubs and trees are all integral to any landscape project and you should have an idea of what you’d like to see. If you don’t know, visit your local greenhouse or nursery for inspiration and gain a greater understanding of native plants that fare well in your environment.
• What level of lawn care is needed? Whether or not you have sprawling acres of land, a healthy lawn of any size and shape sets the foundation for a beautiful landscape. Your lawn care professional can review with you how to grow and maintain a lawn through all the seasons. Consider if weed control, mowing, aeration, fertilization and irrigation may be needed as part of your lawn care program. A lawn care specialist can help you budget and plan for these tasks now, even if your lawn is covered in frost or snow!

It’s never too early to start planning

The long weeks of winter are here, but now is the perfect time to formalize your plans for a gorgeous, spring lawn and landscape. A professional can help you reach every goal you’ve dreamed about. So start planning today. Your home will benefit from your preparation — and on those cold mornings, it sure helps to dream of spring, doesn’t it?

IMAGE CAPTIONS: ——————————————- Caption 1: Hoffman Landscapes, Inc./LoveYourLandscape.org

*BPT

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Parents and grandparents typically pass down many things to the next generation — jewelry, furniture and other family heirlooms. But what if the best thing that the preceding generation passed along was their financial wisdom? Through years of investing and saving for retirement, Baby Boomers have experienced a lot and learned many helpful lessons along the way.

A recent survey from Capital Group(R), home of the American Funds(R) and one of the world’s leading investment management firms, studied the dynamics for Boomer investors as they transitioned into retirement. The survey revealed what expenses cause the most sticker shock for retired Boomers, why they retire earlier or later than they planned, how they see the financial markets performing over the next 10 years, and their goals for growing their retirement nest egg to ride out the market’s ups and downs.

Five Golden Rules From Retired Baby Boomers

Boomers have learned many lessons — some good, some bad and all beneficial to future generations of investors. Here are five rules that these seasoned investors found to be essential to saving for a secure retirement.

1) Stay invested for the long term — A large majority (92 percent) of retired Boomers say that Americans need to save more for retirement by getting and staying invested in the market. When asked about what they would do in fluctuating markets, only three in 10 (32 percent) would adapt their strategies based on market conditions.

2) Keep an eye on fees — Low fees and transparency really matter to Boomers. Ninety-four percent of retired Boomers want to be able to easily understand the fees they pay, and 78 percent stressed low-cost simple investments to buy and hold for the long term.

3) Diversify your portfolio — Eighty-five percent of retired Boomers believe that building a diversified portfolio is one of the most important elements for a safe path to a better retirement.

4) Protect yourself against market downturns — Eight in 10 (80 percent) retired Boomers stress the importance of protecting their nest egg and lowering the risk of losses during market downturns. Thirty percent of Boomers wish that they had learned sooner what to do in turbulent markets — near the top of the list of lessons learned.

5) Start saving early and often — Eight in 10 (79 percent) retired Boomers believe saving a portion of monthly income toward retirement is one of the best things you can do, and 60 percent said they wished they had started investing as young as possible.

Unexpected Retirement Costs

Retired Boomers are surprised by their spending patterns and are paying more than expected on unanticipated items.

Health care tops the list in terms of surprise costs and unanticipated spending in retirement, with 43 percent saying they are spending more on health care than they had planned. Travel, an activity popular with retirees, is also more costly than expected, with 40 percent of retired Boomers spending more on travel than they anticipated. Rounding out the top five items: One-third (34 percent) report paying more in taxes than expected, and about a quarter say they are spending more than they had planned on food (25 percent) or utilities (23 percent).

While these surprise costs may exceed retired Boomers’ expectations, they are not losing sleep over their finances. Among Boomers who are already retired, less than one in three (27 percent) list having enough money for retirement as a top concern, while two-thirds (65 percent) of Boomers still working say it is a top concern.

Whether your “perfect retirement” is traveling the country on a motorcycle, sitting by the pool all day or starting your dream second act, following these rules could put you on track to fulfilling your retirement dreams.

For additional findings and the full report, “Expect the Unexpected: Baby Boomer Lessons on Investing and Retirement,” visit http://bit.ly/2y8rokm.

*BPT

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By Katherine Hansford Arce

Every summer, my husband and I love taking our kids somewhere new for vacation. We believe that habitually going the same places every year gets boring and when it comes to vacation we want to be anything but routine. This year we chose Tennessee as our destination for “new” fun. It is remote, far away from where we live, and has all the components for the great time we were looking for. Wanting to add a little spontaneity to our trip we didn’t book a hotel or anything in advance. We packed our bags, hooked up the GPS, loaded up the van and took off for our Tennessee adventure!

Arriving in Tennessee my family and I expected to see a lot of hills, however, as we got further in what we saw captured our hearts and still does to this day- The Great Smoky Mountains! At first thought it may seem like the mountains are nothing more than an area for great hiking, however you will soon discover that the mountains hold so much more! Within the nearby towns, there is a lot of entertainment and fun for everyone!

After driving awhile, we came to a town called Sevierville. It was there that we saw something off the main road that captured our attention with a massive lit-up funnel like structure coming off the side of it’s building: Wilderness at the Smokies. It is known as Tennessee’s largest family resort and includes one sizable indoor and two outdoor waterparks. It is a great place for families to stay and relax while also having a lot of fun. The outdoor waterparks– Lake Wilderness Outdoor Waterpark and Salamander Springs Outdoor Waterpark– are only open during the summer. The indoor water park (Wild WaterDome Indoor Waterpark), however, is open year-round! The water parks include several water slides, tube slides, water racers, surf riders, lagoons, rivers, and even spas for us mommies. Our family really loved the Storm Chaser Thrill Ride- which we eventually figured out was the massive funnel like structure that caught our attention to begin with- which is a waterslide that gives its riders a hair-raising experience! Four guests plummet 55 feet down a thrilling, dark tunnel ride before dropping through a zero gravity fall into a funnel where they experience several fast oscillations before splashing into a pool below. Be prepared for the ride of your life! Note: A few of the water rides include a minimum height requirement of 48’’.

After spending 5 hours at the waterparks, my husband and I decided (along with much begging from the kids) that we had to stay overnight at the resort… and we were in luck, a room was actually available! Normally I would suggest booking ahead as they tend to stay booked up.

There are a few different lodging options to choose from at Wilderness. Since we are a family of five, we opted to stay at the River Lodge. We wanted to be sure we chose a room that had enough space for all of us as well as comfort and boy did it deliver! River Lodge offers a variety of suite styles that are designed to accommodate families while allowing for the convenience of extra room to spread out. Our largest suite sleeps up to 15 people, which includes multiple sleeping rooms, a full kitchen and family room with fireplace. River Lodge is also connected to the Wild WaterDome Indoor Waterpark and also has many other features including: Lake Wilderness Outdoor Waterpark, Cataloochee Creek Adventure Golf, The Thirsty Miner Restaurant, Mountain Marketplace, Outpost Gift Shop, Back Country Arcade, Paint Your Own Pottery, a Fitness Center and Guest Laundry.

Another option, Stone Hill Lodge features upscale furnishings, with a mountain-modern decor. Rooms have flat screen TV’s, refrigerators, microwaves, coffee makers, irons and ironing boards and in-room safes. Stone Hill Lodge also features: Salamander Springs Outdoor Waterpark, Hidden Trail Bar and Grill, Black Bear Boutique, Back Country Arcade, a Fitness Center, a Business Center and Guest Laundry. From double queen hotel rooms to king executive suites, they are sure to have the room that is perfect for your family.

Lastly there is Sanctuary Villas, which are luxurious, golf front villas, less than a mile from all the other Wilderness amenities. All Villas are fully furnished with every amenity your family might desire along with a private terrace and game room. Enjoy golf course seclusion and also waterpark access!

After we checked out of our room and went to the waterparks for one last time, my kids started to get really cranky- partly because they didn’t want to leave but also partly because they were exhausted and were in the need of some good food. When traveling, Trip Advisor is my best friend. My husband and I searched for local places with great reviews and found the Hatflields & McCoys Dinner Show all I had to do was read the online description and instantly it cheered the kids up! If you’re searching for a place to eat and have a laugh, look no further! At the Hatfield & McCoy’s Dinner Show you can enjoy a nice homemade, country style dinner while watching one of the best comedy shows in Pigeon Forge. Dinner includes an all-you-can-eat line-up featuring some of the best food in Pigeon Ford, according to Trip Advisor- and we’d have to agree. The menu included country fried chicken, open pit pork barbeque, a southern style creamy vegetable soup (my absolute favorite – I was even able to buy the soup mix in the gift shop after the show to take home to make), corn on the cob, mashed taters, coleslaw, homemade rolls, and a specialty dessert. Everything was amazing and the chicken was so tender and juicy—we definitely had to ask for seconds and our waiter was all to happy to oblige. We received excellent service and with a smile!

The on-stage staff delivered an outstanding show called “A Family Feud.” We were laughing so hard watching folks dressed in country-style attire—men with straw hats and overalls pick guitars and sing and women with plaid dresses and boots dance and sing and give a great story line filled with humor. There was never a dull moment watching the two families banter back and forth. Just be sure you chew and swallow your food quickly… or the person sitting across from you may not be very happy when coleslaw comes flying across the table because you let out a big belly laugh!

If after Hatfield & McCoy’s your begging for more comedy on your trip be sure to check out The Comedy Barn also located in Pigeon Forge. The Comedy Barn is actually a sister venue to the Hatfield & McCoy’s and combo tickets are available at a discount when you book both. Just like The Hatfield and McCoy’s Dinner Show the Comedy Barn offered up a ton of laughs and a great meal. Dinner for this show however is served at The Frizzle Chicken Farmhouse Cafe right next door. There your family will receive an amazing feast that includes Savory Pot Roast, Fried Chicken Breast, Mashed Potatoes, Macaroni and Cheese, Green Beans, Homemade Pasta Salad, Cream of Chicken Soup, Rolls, and for dessert Banana Pudding or Chocolate Cake. The Comedy Barn show times are 5pm and 8:15pm nightly. Tickets are $29.95 per adult and $9.95 per child. You can ADD ON the dinner option for $19.95 per adult and $9.95 per child.

The Comedy Barn has a variety of acts: magicians, jugglers, ventriloquists, comedians, amazing trained animals, tap dancing, live country and gospel music! They also bring unsuspecting audience members into different parts of the show and trust me when I say that will leave your stomach sore from laughing so hard! The Comedy Barn show offers seasonal acts as well and has a special Christmas Show for the holidays. Your family is sure to have endless streams of laughter and fun!

Back in the van and a few minutes away from Pigeon Forge, we arrived in a quaint little mountain town called Gatlinburg. As we drove in we saw a billboard advertising an awesome-sounding attraction called Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies. I quickly Googled it and found out that it was voted “The Best U.S. Aquarium” by USA Today in 2017 and it’s no wonder why, it has something to offer the whole family! From penguin encounters, to swimming with stingrays and painting with penguins… no matter what activity you choose at the Aquarium, you and the family will never get bored!

Ages 4 and up can make a new furry little friend— a penguin! Staff members are on-site to monitor the encounters. The penguins are well trained to interact with visitors. They can pet the penguins and even get a photo with them. Children ages 4-7 must be chaperoned by an adult and the staff. Prices are $44.99 for one adult to chaperone one child.

Ever wanted to get up close and interact with a stingray? If so and if you are at least 40” tall and 5 years old, you can splash (swim) with the stingrays for only $29.99! My family was able to swim with the stingrays together and it is something we will never forget! Just be sure not to forget your swimsuit / trunks as they are required attire for this activity. Towels however are provided.

Feeling artsy? And love penguins too? Try a penguin painting class with these little furry friends! For only $79.99 per person, you can help a penguin create a cool work of art. You will choose a color or two, dip your penguin’s feet in the colors, and watch your penguin get to work as he or she walks colored footprints all over a piece of 8×10 white canvas paper! My youngest son absolutely loved this activity because he loves painting and penguins are his favorite animals! Again a chaperone is required here for children ages 4-7 and it’s an additional $19.99 to chaperone one child in addition to the general penguin painting class admission.

Some other cool opportunities at the aquarium include live shows; gift shops; cafés; viewing coral reefs and coral fish; the Discovery Center (where you can get hands-on with aquatic creatures of many types); Gallery of the Seas (you can view octopuses, jellyfish, lionfish, spider crabs, cuttlefish, and other mesmerizing ocean creatures); Stingray Bay; Penguin Playhouse; Ocean Realm; Shark Lagoon; Touch A Ray Bay; and Tropical Rainforest (creatures of the rainforest). The aquarium also offers birthday parties and group activities such as Sleeping with the Sharks (spend a night under a dome watching the sharks), classroom field trips and events (includes discounts for teachers and students and advanced group booking online). General admission is $34.99 per Adult, Children ages 6-11 are $19.99 each and Children ages 2-5 are only $9.99 each. If you would like an Aquarium guide, it is an additional $2.99. Ripley’s also offers combo tickets to Aquarium as well as some of its other attractions.

Beyond waterparks, comedy shows, great food and the aquarium, another amazing way to experience the area is to explore the Great Smoky Mountains itself! The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a must! The park covers a large area from Tennessee to the North Carolina border. It is known as America’s most visited National park for a reason—there’s so much wildlife diversity, so many beautiful views, great hiking trails and interesting things to do there. While hiking we came across a couple black bears in the distance (always hike with caution), a beautiful assortment of wildflowers, a variety of birds, and fireflies once it got dark along with many other mysterious and interesting creatures that reside within the mountains.

One of the most popular areas of the National Park is Cades Cove. Cades Cove is an isolated valley located in the Tennessee section of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The valley was home to numerous settlers before the formation of the national park. It is a very popular place to capture breathtaking views of the mountains. Here, it was possible for my family to see a lot of white-spotted deer, black bears, raccoons, turkeys and other animals. There was even the opportunity to set-up camp close by (with tents and RV’s) if you wish to be further immersed in the wildlife! Around the area we saw a lot of historical houses that dated back to the 19th century. My husband (who is a History Channel buff) loved this! Some of the things we came across were churches, windmills, log homes, barns and old school houses. No matter what you come across, there is sure to be some kind of historic story or fact behind it providing a great opportunity for a history lesson for the kiddos!

Open year-round, the Smoky Mountains of course offers a lot of opportunity for great hiking and even kid-friendly hikes. Some of the more popular destination hikes include Charlies Bunion, Alum Cave Bluffs, Andrews Bald, Rainbow Falls (a hike to a beautiful 80 foot waterfall that shapes into an hourglass in the winter), and Chimney Tops (a much steeper climb/hike). Our family’s favorite was Rainbow Falls- the waterfall was amazingly beautiful!

Yes, this Tennessee, Great Smoky Mountains “Adventure” left my family feeling more than satisfied with our spontaneous and un-routine vacation. Whether your interest is hiking, swimming, laughing until you hurt or getting up close and personal with natures furry and feathery residents, you are bound to have an awesome time and make unforgettable family memories with a Great Smoky Mountains’ Vacay! What are you waiting for!?!

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Everyone knows that one of the best parts of vacation is the food! And it’s a major score when your choice of travel destinations is also the home to some really amazing restaurants which is the case with Destin, Florida. Beyond the beauty of the emerald green waters, sugar sand beaches and fun activities the whole family will enjoy, are some of the best-kept secrets (maybe not now) of Florida fares. Here is a list of our favorites!

BREAKFAST: Another Broken Egg Café – Sandestin, FL

Located amongst the boutique shops of beautiful Sandestin Village, part of Sandestin’s Golf & Beach Resort, is Another Broken Egg Café. This restaurant has something for everyone in your family, from their Bananas Foster Pancakes (my daughter’s favorite) perfect for your little ones with a sweet tooth… vacation is the perfect time to splurge… to their decadent Lobster and Brie Omelette – OMG are the only words to describe this cheesy goodness filled with sautéed fresh lobster meat, brie, cream cheese and topped with a light champagne butter sauce, diced tomatoes and green onions. According to Tyler Hysom – Manager, this is a crowd favorite and one of their most ordered dishes. Have a family member with a special needs diet or who is just a health nut? Let’s face it, to stick to your healthy diet on vacation you have to be very committed, right? Another Broken Egg Café also offers Gluten free options such as their Gluten-friendly Pancakes and other healthy options such as the Salmon Power Bowl, Skinny Omelette, Granola, Fruit & Quinoa and Monterey Omelette part of the “Sensible Selections” category of their menu. You’ll feel like you’re cheating because these dishes are chalked full of flavor! If indulging is your plan, then be sure to order the Biscuit Beignets! These sweet warm balls of yummy coated in powdered sugar are perfect for an appetizer or dessert. I would suggest appetizer or you may not have room after your amazing meal. I would also suggest ordering a second order – your kids may want some as well! (wink) Lastly, don’t forget to order a mimosa – ABEC offers several amazing flavors – if you are looking to let your hair down a bit, opt for the bottomless mimosas!

Check out Another Broken Egg Café’s menu here and be sure to add them into your breakfast plans!

BRUNCH: First Watch – Destin, FL

I know it doesn’t seem possible but at some point on your beach trip you are going to want something besides seafood – as a seafood junky I never thought it was possible – but during a week of indulging in it you will find yourself wanting something just as tasty but different. My family found this at First Watch. First Watch makes everything Fresh to Order! No heat lamps, deep fryers or getting cold toast with warm eggs or visa-versa. They use only the finest ingredients and you can definitely taste it in their dishes. But before I get started on the amazing food they have to offer… let’s start with their drinks. How often is a restaurant known for it’s great drinks? Trust me when I say they have drinks that will have you Googling or checking Pinterest for the recipes so you can make them at home… or immediately going online to look for a First Watch near you (like I did – luckily I had one 30 minutes from my home – but it’d even be worth an hour drive). Their in-house Juice Bar offers juices made from all-natural ingredients which are made daily. I ordered the Morning Meditation which is a combination of orange, lemon, turmeric, organic ginger, agave nectar and beet juices. It was nothing short of amazing! So good I ordered another! Besides being tasty, this healthy option will help keep your tummy on track after treating yourself continuously during your trip. They also offer a Kale Tonic from the Juice Bar and other beverages such as their special Project Sunrise Coffee which is their premium, full flavored coffee brewed fresh for you, organic herbal teas, various soft drinks, milks and juices. For Brunch, they make even the healthiest food feel like a treat. From the Farm Stand Breakfast Tacos, Avocado Toast, Ham & Gruyere Omelet and Lemon Ricotta Pancakes (and don’t even get me started on their Million Dollar Bacon – A must order! YUMMO!) to their Sweet Honey Pecan salad, Monterey Club, Veggie Burger and BLTE – 2 over-hard cage free eggs, bacon, lettuce, tomato and mayo on artisan whole grain bread, your family will leave First Watch feeling completely satisfied but not completely guilty!

Check out First Watch Destin’s amazing menu here!

LUNCH: Brotula’s Seafood House & Steamer

This locally owned and operated seafood house is dining at it’s finest! Co-owner Tyler Jarvis definitely knows his stuff when it comes to offering up the best in seafood in Destin, Florida. After a morning of soaking up the sun, building sandcastles with the little ones and playing in the waves (and then maybe a short nap) you will want to venture out and find somewhere for lunch that not only offers a great meal and a great view of the bay… but the best darn seafood around. Brotula’s sits right on the bay with outdoor seating allowing for a breathtaking view of the beautiful waters, big boats and soaring seagulls. They specialize in fresh, locally-sourced seafood and produce and offer a wide array of seafood platters, shareable snacks and their popular Build Your Own Boil option. Choose from mussels and oysters to shrimp, lobster and crab and include sides like cheese grits, asparagus and bacon braised collards and choose your own boil type – Steamed Cajun or Deep South! Being a bit of a spice weenie I opted for the Deep South which is a mustard and beer boil… absolutely divine (I also like to stay true to my Southern roots)! Don’t forget to choose from the many Seasonings & Butter options to top it off right! When it comes to the ultimate lunch experience, no matter how good the food is, you won’t have a great meal without great service… and just as with the food, Brotula’s delivered! Our waiter, Leo, was super gracious and made sure my family and I had everything we needed at all times to enjoy our meal, including some great conversation when stopping by our table. I felt like a local that had been there a million times. This place is a must visit!

Visit Brotula’s at 210D Harbor Blvd, Destin Florida and check out them out here!

DINNER(S): Jackacuda’s Seafood & Sushi and Cuvée Kitchen & Wine Bar

For dinner we couldn’t decide between two of our favorites, since both are equally as good, so we decided to list both. These two restaurants, like Brotula’s above, are owned by the same restaurant group, Bald & The Beard Restaurants, co-owned by Tyler Jarvis and Christopher Ruyan. As with Brotula’s above they too delivered on their promise of great food, great atmosphere and great service!

Jackacuda’s (an AKA Mom Favorite) offers a lengendary story – read about the Tenaco 80 here. Jackacuda’s is located in the heart of Destin in the popular Harborwalk Village. The Harborwalk hosts tons of shops like Aloha Surf Company, Bright Ideas and Cariloha along with fun activities like Buccaneer Pirate Ship (a must-do with the kiddos), charter fishing, snorkeling tours, dolphin tours, jet-ski rentals, an escape room and kayaking. They also have some great places to stop for a drink along the way… Jackacuda’s being one of them! They have Happy Hour from 11am to 5pm everyday with $5 sushi rolls and $5 Wells, House Wines and 23oz Domestic Drafts so get there a little early for dinner to take advantage of these deals. For dinner choose options from their Basic and/or Specialty Sushi rolls, soups and salads, oysters and their Fresh Seafood & House Specialties like Blackened Snapper and Prime Rib. This chef-inspired menu has a lot to offer and their flavors are always on point! Kids will love the Southern Style Mac & Cheese and The Townhouse Burger with bacon jam and cheddar cheese with crispy potato spuds and ALL will love the mouthwatering desserts Jackacuda’s has to offer… the Jack’s Pie was scrumptious! And don’t forget about the amazing harbor view when choosing indoor or outdoor seating!

Stop in and see them at 56 Harbor Blvd (near Emerald Grande) Destin, FL and check them out online here.

Just when you thought you have had the best, Tyler and Chris have done it again! They purchased and renovated Cuvée Kitchen & Wine Bar. This trendy hot spot offers a seasonal menu with the usual fresh ingredients, big flavors, amazing cocktails and service with a smile! Creativity is definitely apparent in the atmosphere and menu here. When arriving you feel like you are about to embark on an exciting journey. Low lighting, amazing smells from the kitchen and the bartenders meticulously creating drinks like pieces of art, I knew we were in the right place. My first impression was that it was more of a place for a date night away from the kids but I quickly realized that all were welcome here and our waiter Mike and manager Samantha quickly made it known that we were all indeed about to enjoy one of the best culinary experiences of our trip. Still would be an amazing date night though! The menu at Cuvée is continuously updated which is part of what makes a visit there like an adventure itself. You could go weekly and enjoy something different each time! Appetizers include delightful bites like a Cheese and Charcuterie Board which the whole family loved. We had fun discussing which cheeses were our faves, where the cheese came from, etc. For dinner there were options for seafood & fish, beef, chicken entrees and more. Just reading the menu had my mouth watering! Even after eating so much… because you just couldn’t resist all the yummy things on the menu… you better take a deep breath, because you won’t be able to resist their desserts either. With sweets like Seasonal Cheesecake to their Bourbon Buttermilk Pie with Goat Cheese Ice Cream, Blueberry Jam and Honeycomb – your taste buds will be on cloud 9! And to top the night off (after a somewhat busy day with the kiddos) you can sit back and enjoy one of their crafted cocktails (also changing continuously) such as the Bacon & Eggs which is made with a bacon-infused bourbon to a Southern Belle (my favorite – again sticking true to my southern roots…lol) which is a mix of western son peach vodka, elderflower liqueur, grapefruit and mint simple… simply yummy is what it was! Cuvée is definitely a great place to take a step away from the norm…to feel pampered and appreciated… to take your palate on a delicious journey!

Call Cuvée for a reservation at 850-460-2909 or book online via Resy (under the Reservations tab on their website here.

Yes, Destin, Florida certainly has many wonderful attributes that will make for a fantastic family vacation full of fun but I must admit – my crew would go back time and time just for the “food-cation”! Bon Appetit!

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Whether it’s eating too many slices of pizza or constantly getting takeout, most of us have slipped on our good eating habits at one time or another. But is avoiding unhealthy foods enough to keep our bodies in top shape?

While gut health is not something many people consider, Mayo Clinic experts agree that it is important to pay attention to as it can affect your overall well-being. Here’s what you need to know about your gut and how it concerns your health.

Hundreds of different bacteria species live in your gut

The lining of your gut is covered in bacteria, and these organisms create a micro-ecosystem called the microbiome. Before you stare at your stomach in horror, know that many of these bacteria species are good for you and should be nurtured with specialized plant fibers called prebiotics.

Prebiotics encourage healthy bacteria growth and can be easily incorporated into your diet, as they are found in many fruits and vegetables. Look for foods containing complex carbohydrates, which can’t be digested by the body and instead become food for the healthy bacteria living in your gut.

Probiotics offer another way to help maintain a healthy balance of good bacteria living in the gut. The difference with probiotics is that they actually contain live organisms. Instead of nurturing healthy bacteria, probiotics add specific strains of healthy bacteria to your microbiome. Probiotics can be found in foods like yogurt, kimchi and sauerkraut. Kombucha is also a good source of probiotics.

You can also find prebiotic and probiotic supplements designed to help with specific conditions. Consult your doctor before adding supplements to your diet.

A healthy gut may be connected to weight loss

The benefits of a healthy gut are still being studied, and more research is needed to confirm how a healthy gut contributes to weight loss. In a preliminary study, Mayo Clinic collected and analyzed gut bacteria samples from a group of 26 participants enrolled in the Mayo Clinic Obesity Treatment Research Program. The research team found that those who did not lose weight had different gut bacteria than those who did. Dr. Purna Kashyap, a Mayo Clinic gastroenterologist and co-author of the study, says that these findings “suggested to us that gut bacteria may possibly be an important determinant of weight loss in response to diet and lifestyle changes.”

Poor gut health can exacerbate certain autoimmune disorders

While there are species of healthy bacteria living in your gut, some species in the microbiome are not helpful. Having an imbalance of the two can lead to poor gut health, which can then exacerbate certain autoimmune disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome, celiac disease and rheumatoid arthritis.

Improving your diet is the best way to foster healthy gut bacteria. Along with eating more fruits and vegetables, eliminate as much processed foods and added sugar as possible. It’s also a good idea to reduce meat consumption and to incorporate alternative proteins such as legumes, tofu and nuts into your diet.

By improving your gut health, you have the potential to boost your overall well-being. Learn more about the benefits of healthy gut bacteria by visiting us at mayoclinic.org.

*BPT

The post How a healthy gut can be good for your well-being appeared first on AKA Mom Magazine.

Kids’ school days are packed with learning, laughing and lots of fun. To get the most out their time in class, it’s important their bodies and minds are properly fueled. Packing a healthy lunch is on of the easiest ways parents can support their child’s education during the day while they can’t be there. Healthy foods keep distracting hunger pangs at bay while providing important nutrients to support focus and learning.

Many traditional healthy foods aren’t necessarily kid-friendly, which leaves moms and dads wondering how to pack a wholesome lunch that will actually get eaten. Fortunately, a little creative thinking and a few simple lunchbox tricks can help you create tasty meals that will fuel your kids throughout the school day. Consider these seven smart ideas and be inspired to create your own kid-approved combinations.

Think outside the loaf: Sandwiches are a lunchbox staple, but that doesn’t mean you’re limited to two pieces of bread. To add variety and boost nutrient intake, incorporate fun variations. For example, use whole-grain tortillas to create wraps, or, go one step further and cut up the rolls for bite-size “sushi” that makes it fun for lunching. Another idea: use whole-wheat waffles as the sandwich ends and fill with peanut butter and banana or cream cheese and apples.

Colorful creations: Ever notice how everything associated with kids has tons of color? Children are attracted to vivid hues and you can use this to your advantage when you pack lunches. Put a rainbow in every lunch by packing colorful produce such as green cucumber, cherry tomatoes, purple plums, orange carrots and yellow peppers. You’ll keep things visually stimulating and the various colors of fresh foods mean they are getting a variety of vitamins and minerals.

Fantastic freeze-dried fruit: Fresh fruit isn’t always an option and that’s when delicious Crispy Fruit freeze-dried snacks from Crispy Green can save the day. The perfect complement to any healthy lunch or the ideal lightweight portable snack, Crispy Fruit comes in many single-serving varieties to keep lunchboxes interesting, including banana, apple, pineapple and pear. You can feel good about giving your kids a snack that is 100 percent fruit, non-GMO and allergen-free with no additives or sugar added.

Breakfast for lunch: Is it backwards day? No, but you can get a little crazy by shaking things up when you pack breakfast foods for lunch. Kids will grin with joy as they open their pack to see their favorite whole grain cereal with a side of milk, or muffins with secret healthy ingredients like fruit or shredded veggies. You might even consider your child’s favorite breakfast sandwich or a yogurt parfait as a wholesome lunch option.

Slurp up soup: Cold lunch doesn’t necessarily need to be cold. Get a reusable insulated container and get ready to delight those kid’s taste buds with vitamin-rich soup. Whether you choose a hearty alphabet soup bought from the store or decide to make a batch at home, look for options packed with different vegetables and limited salt. Simply heat up in the morning and it will be ready and waiting come lunch time. Warm soup satisfies the stomach while warming the heart.

Dip and munch: If you have a hesitant kid who is known to snub their nose at fruits and veggies, consider making eating more fun by packing a side of dip. Children adore the act of dipping and it makes eating a fun, interactive activity. A little yogurt will encourage kids to gobble up fruits like orange wedges, apple slices or halved strawberries. Low-fat salad dressing or hummus is the perfect pairing for veggie straws including carrots, celery or sweet peppers.

Protein pick-me-up: Protein helps kids feel fuller for longer, getting them through those lengthy school days. It’s important to pack a protein source in lunch, but meats aren’t your only option. Eggs are high in protein, so try hard-boiled or scrambled and pack in an insulated container. Other kid-friendly foods high in protein include cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, beans and many nuts or nut butters.

You are what you eat, so it’s important to choose your children’s foods wisely. For more tips about packing wholesome lunches and living a healthy family lifestyle, visit www.produceforkids.com/poweryourlunchbox or smartlifebites.com.

*BPT

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Fall is notorious for comfort foods like pumpkin spice lattes and game day nachos. Combine these tempting seasonal staples with darker, shorter days and it can be hard to maintain an active mindset. Despite the enticement to indulge, you can keep your active lifestyle going or even kick off a new fitness regime.

This year, take advantage of the winds of change when the seasons switch and commit to smart habits for a healthy fall.

Dress for success. As the temperatures drop, you may be tempted to bundle up before heading outdoors to exercise, and for your warm-up and cool-down period, that’s not a bad idea. However, while you’re in the midst of your workout, it’s easy to get overheated. Wear layers that you can shed as you begin to sweat and consider moisture-wicking materials that can prevent sweaty clothes from getting cold in the breeze.

Stay hydrated. You may not feel as thirsty when you exercise in cooler weather, but it’s just as important to keep your body well hydrated. When you sweat, you lose more than just water. An option like Propel Electrolyte Water helps you replace what’s lost in sweat through its key electrolyte – sodium – and supports hydration by stimulating thirst and aiding in fluid balance. With the same level of electrolytes as Gatorade, zero calories and no sugar, it can be a perfect choice to support your active lifestyle. Learn more at propelwater.com.

Opt for early workouts. When dark comes early, it can trick your mind into thinking it’s time to wind down for the night. Avoid that motivation pitfall by planning your workout earlier in the day, such as first thing in the morning or during your lunch break. If early mornings are daunting, remember that it won’t take long to shift your sleep schedule and early exercise is a caffeine-free way to put some energy into your day.

Find exercises you enjoy. Forcing yourself through exercises you despise will only backfire in the long run. If you’re not a runner, look for other ways to get your cardio pumping. Interval walking with varied paces and elevation can be an effective alternative or look at ideas like kickboxing or aerobics that you can have fun with while working up a sweat.

Indulge in moderation. Virtually every expert agrees that an occasional indulgence is perfectly acceptable, but use caution when the fall goodies start tempting. Those warm, rich desserts and drinks are filled with empty calories that can make all your hard work go to waste.

Set realistic goals. Having a long-term goal is a good idea, but be sure to set attainable expectations for yourself, including some milestones you can celebrate along the way to keep your motivation strong. Be realistic about how much time you can dedicate to fitness with your other life demands so you can set your goals accordingly.

Don’t skimp on skin care. The sun may not be as hot, but if you’re exercising outdoors, you’re still at risk for sunburn. Protect any exposed skin with sunscreen before working out.

*FF

*Photo courtesy of Getty Images

The post Fall Into a Fitness Routine appeared first on AKA Mom Magazine.

It may feel impossible to fit even more into already jam-packed days, but when the holidays roll around, entertaining and celebrating always find a way. Fortunately, you can find some shortcuts when hosting that offer plenty of festive style while also helping you avoid stressing over every detail.

This year, rely on some time-saving hacks so you’re not just throwing the holiday party, but enjoying some seasonal fun of your own.

Repurpose with purpose. There’s no need to make time for a trip to the store or to spend a bundle on party supplies. A pretty, oversized flowerpot or planter that has been cast aside for winter makes a perfect tub for icing down beverages. When it comes to decor, you can cover any old box with some of last year’s leftover holiday paper to add some colorful touches around the home. A similar idea: wrap canvas art or other frames in pretty paper to extend the theme up the walls.

Make easy attractive. Most holiday celebrations center on the food, but it’s still an area where you can shave some time. For example, a simple but attractive option like the wide selection of Chinet Classic White products is designed for practical use. They do not bend, fold or leak, and are strong enough for extra helpings no matter the occasion.

For a more elegant affair, the Chinet Cut Crystal collection is the only fully coordinated line of disposable plates, cups, cutlery and wineglasses. Guests will barely realize they’re not using the good china, but you’ll definitely notice when you’re able to skip time at the sink to spend more precious moments with your loved ones.

Fill the freezer. Whether your holiday entertaining is more impromptu in nature or you host a single sizable shindig, keeping a well-stocked freezer can help make hosting a cinch. Dedicate an afternoon to preparing items you can easily defrost and serve later, like casseroles, appetizers, side dishes and desserts.

Forgo fussy food. An elegant sit-down meal isn’t the only way to enjoy a holiday gathering. Guests may even appreciate a break from traditional heavier fare. Simple food stations, finger foods and even store-bought meals are all time-saving alternatives. Another time-saving option: dressing up store-bought food as part of a larger spread. For example, you can top side dishes like mashed potatoes with olive oil or butter and sprinkle with cheese or embellish a main course such as ham with rosemary sprigs and fresh fruit.

Keep cleanup simple. For a festive, yet deceptively easy table, consider using kraft paper as tablecloths and let some of that leftover wrapping paper do double-duty as table runners. Simply cut the wrapping paper to your desired length and fold the edges under to create clean seams. Match the DIY table coverings with a coordinated line of disposable tableware to make cleaning up a cinch.

Explore more hacks to simplify your holiday entertaining at MyChinet.com.

*FF

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For any gardener, fall is bittersweet. The exuberance of summer’s bounty has started to fade, while cooler nights and less daylight signal the approach of cold, dark winter.

However, there’s still plenty of time to savor some of the garden’s best flavors before you close your door on the season. In fact, now is the perfect time to plant what are collectively known as “cool weather” crops — tasty favorites that thrive in autumn’s chill.

Bonnie Plants grows a wide variety of cool-weather veggies and herbs, perfect for fall planting. Availability of Bonnie’s fall varieties is limited to specific regions, so check your local garden retailers to find plants near you.

Select some hardy favorites to get weeks of crisp cabbage slaws, healthy kale bowls, crunchy cauliflower and broccoli or even hearty greens like collards or Swiss chard, perfect to pop in a long-simmering winter braise.

Other fall favorites include Brussels sprouts — delicious roasted with slivers of garlic, olive oil and a touch of balsamic vinegar — or any of the versatile salad greens like lettuce and spinach or flavorful herbs like cilantro that tend to suffer and bolt prematurely in sweltering summer sun.

Here’s six timely tips from Bonnie Plants to help you make your fall garden as enjoyable as your summer harvest.

1. Go big at home

Plant pre-started vegetable or herb transplants rather than seeds to squeeze every last moment out of fall’s compressed growing season. These plants love warm soil coupled with cool air and will start to grow quickly. Using transplants instead of seed also means you’ll be gathering tasty produce weeks earlier than you would with seed-sown varieties.

2. Stretch the season

While you can certainly plant cool-season veggies and herbs in pots or in the ground, a simple, commonly available garden product, a “cold-frame”, can help you extend your fall season by providing some added protection. A cold frame is a four-sided, clear box — open to the soil at the bottom — with a hinged lid. Because the ground inside stays warmer than the ambient air temperature, a cold frame protects plants long after unsheltered veggies start to fail. (On warm, sunny days, be sure to crack the lid open to prevent too much heat from building up inside.)

3. Prepare you plot or pot

If planting in-ground, be sure to clear the area of previous planted crops and weeds, as they may decay and harbor bacteria. Always bag, tie and discard debris. Turn up the soil’s top layer and add some bagged compost, and mulch. If planting in a pot, be sure to sanitize pots and use fresh, new potting soil, specifically formulated for containers.

4. Proactively patrol for pests

While pest numbers naturally decline in the cooler days of fall, they don’t disappear entirely. Common pests of cool-season plants include tiny, sap-sucking aphids, caterpillars (particularly from cabbage white butterflies) and harlequin bugs. Inspect your plants for tiny clusters of aphids or tell-tale holes in the leaves. Handpick caterpillars or harlequin bugs from plants and dispose of them or use a strong blast of water from a hose to dislodge aphids.

5. Embrace cooler, carefree comforts

With the warm days and cool nights of fall, less moisture evaporates from your garden or pots, so you’ll need to water less often. (Only water when the soil 2” deep is dry.) In addition, many cool weather crops handily survive light frosts, growing well until a very hard freeze ends their productivity. Better yet, chilly weather improves the flavor of many late-season varieties, including members of the cabbage family, kale, Brussels sprouts and chard, by turning their starches into natural sugars, making them a sweet and healthy treat.

6. Take time to relax

Just like plants, gardeners enjoy a break from the stifling heat of summer. With the leisure of cool days, fewer chores and less weeding as the garden begins to wind down, you’ll be able to enjoy the garden more while you wait to harvest your fall favorites to boost your recipes and brighten your table.

If you don’t want to give up on your garden’s bounty, pick up a selection of cool-season favorites from Bonnie Plants now — and keep your garden growing!

For more information on fall gardening and varieties, please visit www.bonnieplants.com.

*BPT

The post Fabulous Fall Flavors: Why Autumn is ideal for gardening, plus timely tips for success appeared first on AKA Mom Magazine.

By Candice Gregg

With the leaves falling and the cooler weather brewing, Halloween is right around the corner. While a lot of us are wondering what costumes we’re going to scramble to buy or put together, a lot of parents have to caution their children what to expect if they go trick-or-tricking. Why you may ask? 1 in 13 children have a food allergy of some sort. Imagine daydreaming about what you’re going to be for Halloween, get dressed up and go out with your family and friends to ask for treats, only to be able to eat a small amount of the treats you received if any at all.  It’s safe to say that this can put a damper on trick-or-treating. Luckily the Teal Pumpkin Project, a nationwide movement, is hoping to change all of that!

So what exactly is the teal pumpkin project and why the color teal? In case you didn’t know, teal is the color for food allergy awareness and has been so for over 20 years! The Teal Pumpkin Project raises awareness for food allergies and the importance of making all children feel included when Halloween comes around. With some candies being made in the same factory as those with nuts, milk, eggs, and other allergens, it sadly isn’t an option for everyone.  The Teal Pumpkin Project has a list of allergy-free options to inspire a list of goodies everyone can enjoy.

With this information, you may be asking yourself, “how can I help or show support for the Teal Pumpkin Project?”. There are quite a few ways to help the cause or contribute to helping everyone have a safe and happy Halloween. You can start by spreading awareness on your social media by changing your profile picture or sending out a status update with information about the organization. If you plan to give out treats for Halloween and would like to provide options for children with allergies, you can add your home onto The Teal Pumpkin Project Map which is a useful tool for parents to use when planning the Halloween festivities for their family. Setting out a teal pumpkin or even a sign that you have goodies that are free of allergens helps too.

The bottom line is all children want to feel included. As adults, it is our responsibility to make sure that kids don’t feel left out of all the fun. Making a pledge to provide non-candy treats for trick-or-treaters makes a difference one house at a time. Please help by spreading awareness to your neighbors, organizers of your church’s trunk-or-trick event, or your children’s teachers.

Have a safe and happy Halloween!

The post Teal is The New Orange: The Teal Pumpkin Project appeared first on AKA Mom Magazine.

By Candice Gregg

The days are starting to get shorter and the leaves will soon be swirling off the branches of trees. With Autumn creeping up on us, the influence of the cooler weather has started the countdown for Thanksgiving and Christmas festivities and events whether you look on social media or step into a store with holiday decor already on display. Sooner than later, your kids will have their wish lists for Santa and Christmas shopping will be right around the corner! Before you check out the holiday guides or the offers for Black Friday, consider a gift for your children that will give back to the community.

Operation ResCUTE,  has a series of plush dogs and story books based on real dogs that the organization has helped rescue! They strive not only in helping shelter dogs, but to help teach young children empathy towards animals in need and help shape the desire of making a difference in their community by adopting shelter dogs. One major problem that our society faces is a surplus of abandoned dogs in need of a home. Breeders and pet shops are making a profit off of pure-bred puppies while millions of dogs living in dog shelters go unhomed and unloved. In fact, only 30 percent of dogs kept in shelters get adopted as an addition to a loving family, leaving an estimated 2.7 million healthy pets remain in shelters each year.

Founder of Operation ResCUTE, Laurie Brown-Nagin, decided to break the cycle of the problem with the overwhelming amount of shelter dogs needed help. After a chance meeting with animal control taking away a puppy in New York City, Laurie stepped in and fell in love with the puppy named Jingles. She became inspired by Jingles, researching dog shelters and with her findings, and created Operation ResCUTE. One of Laurie’s favorite roles is knowing that for every child who reads one of these books, it is an opportunity to shape attitudes and behaviors and hopefully helping one more rescue dog find the loving family they deserve. She says, “It is also equally important that my books and plush help teach empathy to the younger generation and the awareness of and desire to care for those animals and humans in need.”.

With three newly designed series, along with the original beloved Jingles, available on Amazon in mid to late October, they are coming just in time for the holidays. Each collection comes with a book, sharing the stories about a real dog that has found their furever home with the help of this amazing organization. Each collection also comes with a plush that is designed based off the dogs as well. 100% of the proceeds from the series go toward helping other shelter dogs get adopted. While your kids get a new story and a new favorite buddy for bedtime, you can also teach them that they have made a difference in a dog’s (and family’s) life!

The holidays help us as a whole realize the more important things in life. While not every family is able to open their homes to a furry companion, a plush and a book are perfect gifts to help one get noticed and adopted to a family that can. The best presents are the kind that teach us a valuable lesson and keeps on giving. Operation ResCUTE’s mission needs our help and these plush and book collections may seem like a small token, but the payoff is a lot bigger than what we could ever imagine!

Be on the lookout for these must-have collections coming to Amazon.com and don’t forget to add them to your wishlists!

The post Give the gift that gives twice… Operation ResCUTE appeared first on AKA Mom Magazine.

By Candice Gregg

With the gorgeous foliage and everything pumpkin spice, Autumn is officially upon us and hopefully, fall break as well. Although it’s the most magical around Halloween time, Salem, MA is every autumn lover’s dream. Salem is a quaint city that is rich in culture and history with charming touches that makes it truly unique. Whether it’s a trip for you and your significant other or a family trip, there are things to do whatever the occasion. Located in New England, Salem is a short distance away from Boston which makes it very accessible whether you plan to arrive by car, plane, bus, or even ferry.

Rich in history, Salem is a destination for any museum lover. The Salem Witch Museum gives insight about the Salem Witch Trials of 1692 and the victims that were claimed. With an sit-down audio guided exhibit, it gives an one-of-a-kind learning experience that goes into detail about the Salem Witch trials and its conclusion. You also get to learn about the culture of modern practicing witches and how they differ from the stigma of the past and the way they are portrayed in Hollywood. If witch history isn’t your forte, Salem has a pirate history museum that may be up your alley. You can look at a variety of authentic artifacts before walking through a recreation of parts of the ships that used to set sail on the seas. The museum tour gives you a history of both famous pirates and some who aren’t as well known. The gift shop has a lot of pirate trinkets and souvenirs that will make any pirate lover happy. For art lovers, the Peabody Essex Museum boasts numerous levels of a variety of collections that complement any taste. Indulge in the rich cultures of countries including Korea, India, Japan, China, and others, and what they have to offer in terms of fashion, artwork, architecture, and sculptures. Check on their website for their temporary exhibits to be able to make the most of your visit.  

After a day of learning, let Flatbread Company feed you and entertain you with an activity not well-known to areas outside of New England. Eat like a local with their renowned wood fired pizza, a thinner style pizza, and local beers that are sure to quench your thirst after a long day of tourism. When you’re done eating, walk on to the attached bowling alley, Derby Lanes. Derby Lanes is not your average bowling alley. They offer candlepin bowling, an unique New England activity. Candlepins are long and skinny, while the bowling ball is slightly bigger than what you would use in Skeeball. While this may be challenging, who doesn’t think a challenge can be fun?

This attraction is every movie lover’s must go-to: Count Orlok’s Nightmare Gallery. Recently relocated, Count Orlok now has a bigger size to accommodate even more exhibits of interest. This museum has dozens of genuine artifacts and trivia knowledge from the classic horror films that showcase the golden age of cinema. You can see highlights of horror films from each decade leading up to present day. There are plenty of lifesize wax figurines of characters that have guaranteed horrified you in your childhood and currently as well. End the visit with their gift shop of scary goodies and movie souvenirs.

Whether you are interested in the surroundings, history, food, or entertainment, Salem  has tons to offer. While it is a tourist city, it is recommended to live like a local for the duration of your time there. The city’s website lets you plan your trip itinerary with information and suggestions that will enrich each day you plan to visit. Hopefully, you now have some autumn envy and find an excuse to visit the New England city. So gather up your boots, sweaters, and your sense of adventure and plan your visit today.

The post Salem: Every Autumn Lover’s Destination appeared first on AKA Mom Magazine.

By Candice Gregg

With the bustle of preparing for the holidays, you find yourself struggling to find ideas of what to give your wife, a family member, or a close friend. Asking people what is on their wish list might eliminate the element of surprise you were hoping for.  This list will help take the guess work out of finding a unique gift for your loved ones without breaking a sweat or even leaving the your home. So get a cup of hot cocoa, put on the Christmas music, and get comfy in your holiday pj’s for gift shopping this year.

This gift idea is a must-have for anyone! The Smile Direct Club has a state-of-the-art whitening kit with two treatments to help dramatically improve any smile. The Bright On. Whitening Kit has a light accelerator with 20 blue LED lights that work together with the teeth whitening formula which claims to be three times faster than regular whitening strips. It is also smartphone powered which allows you whiten wherever you go. The formula used has the same enamel-safe whitening agents also used by dentists. Priced at $79, this is an affordable and very effective method of teeth whitening and will definitely bring a smile!  

Whether you’re a dog mom, dog dad, or your kids have a sibling with paws, the family dog deserves a little love during the holidays too. A great way to connect with your pet while you’re anywhere, the Furbo, $169, is a camera that allows you to check in with your fur baby and even toss it treats using your smartphone. It has 2-way audio with barking detection that sends a push notification to give you ability to calm your dog and toss a treat to show your love.

For the techie or worker bee in the family, Felix Gray has glasses that will quickly become an essential. Not only do these glasses make a fashion statement with quality frames, they also filter out blue light and eliminate pesky screen glare. This allows you to be able to work in front of a computer screen for long periods of time without the side effects blue light can cause such as headaches, eye strain, and blurry vision. Prices start at $95, glasses are available in nonprescription, prescription, and readers in order to accommodate all.

For mom or any other beauty lover, the  Vinmori Sonic Face Brush is a great tool priced at just $32 that won’t break the bank! This brush is made with medical grade silica gel which prevents bacterial growth and is wireless so the user is able cleanse their face anywhere without worrying about a cord. With 12 different vibration settings, it has the power to deep clean your face and in the fraction of the time it would without it. It even lets you know, via a vibrating notification, when you need to switch to a different part of your face so you don’t irritate your skin, which makes this suitable even for sensitive skin types. Comes with a wireless charger.

As we spend more time with our families around the holidays and memories and nostalgia are in full force, people may get curious about their family history and genetics – 23andMe allows you to explore your ancestry and get answers about your health with their at-home DNA testing kits, currently on sale for $139. With this testing, you can find out what diseases you are at higher risk for, learn about your ancestry background, or even how your DNA influences your traits, tastes, and facial features.  Whether you’re health conscious and want to know how your genes play a role in your lifestyle, or just curious about the genetics that make you “you”, 23andMe makes it possible.

If you know a first-time parent or you are the parent of a newborn, you might realize how hard it can be to get a good night’s sleep. The Baby Shusher is looking to make night time a happier time for everyone in the household.  This product is designed to help baby lull into sleep using a rhythmic shushing sound. Equipped with a 15-minute or 30-minute timer, it can help put even the fussiest baby to sleep. It is doctor tested and approved. Neonatal units everywhere are using the baby shusher to help soothe babies staying overnight. You can choose from the Baby Shusher for $35 or get the Baby Shusher Collection (shown below), priced at $45, which comes with 2 swaddles and 2 pacifiers that further help add to your baby’s relaxation.   

Have a little girl on your list? One of the most popular toys right now are the L.O.L. Surprise Dolls. Dropping the shaped bath fizzies will reveal which of these little cuties you receive. This limited edition pearl style gift has a Doll and matching baby sister with 6 surprise balls containing accessories to style them. These accessories are mix and match so the more Surprise dolls, the more options you have for different looks. Pricing varies depending on which edition and style you get.

With all the technology around us, drones have gotten more and more popular. While full size drones can be expensive, this mini drone, Scoot, is appropriate for kids and adults alike and more budget friendly priced at only $30. Scoot is hand motioned controlled and easy to use. With the ability to fully charge in an hour, this gift makes it easy to be ready to go. To get flying, just toss Scoot up in the air and move your hand close to it in the direction you would like it to move. Easy for beginners! Kids of all ages are sure to have this on their list this year!

For those are hard to shop for or those that appear to have everything, the Wallet Ninja Version 2.0 is a perfect stocking stuffer. Priced at $12.99 and up, depending on the color, the Wallet Ninja is a credit card sized multi-tool that can be handy in any situation you may face. It fits in your wallet or your back pocket and has 20 tools in 1! Need a screwdriver? It has it! You can also peel fruit, open a bottle, use it as a cell phone stand, open a box, etc. It comes in pink or black and has a nail file and mirror as well. This is the kind of gift no one knew they needed but will be so glad they received!

Do you have a chef in the household? Maybe it’s you or your significant other? The Nature’s Blossom Herb Garden Kit ($20) is a kitchen must-have. Growing your own herbs not only adds healthy options for seasoning and garnishing meals but it also brightens up your kitchen and smells great. Whether or not you have a green thumb, this kit makes it easy to grow 5 of the most common herbs used in the kitchen. These little pots take up very little space making it super easy to find a home for them in your kitchen. And good food is always a win-win situation for dinner time with the family!

This last gift will allow your kids (or let’s be honest… you when the kids aren’t around) to be a super star in the comfort of your own home. Alone or with a crowd, the Singing Machine will definitely get the party started! Sing along to your favorite tunes with this Bluetooth karaoke system, featuring a built-in 7″color LCD screen for easy lyric reading. Wirelessly stream digital audio from any Bluetooth compatible device. This karaoke machine is also compatible with CDs and also has a USB port allowing the use of MP3 formatting as well. Equipped with multi-colored LED lights with a dimmer option, you can also put on an impressive light show while singing along to your favorite songs. There are even two microphone jacks so you can perform the ultimate duet – Islands in the Stream.. I Got You Babe… Priced at $129.99, this is truly a gift that everyone in your household will enjoy time and time again. Comes with 5 free karaoke downloads.

While the most important part of the holidays is spending time with your loved ones, gift-giving is an added bonus and can make you feel good when you find just the right gift for the right person. And this year, give yourself the gift of online shopping so that you have more time to spend with your family. Whether it be for your son or daughter, your husband, yourself, or Fido, these gifts are sure to please!

Happy Holidays!

The post 2018 Holiday Must-Haves for the Family appeared first on AKA Mom Magazine.

Ask yourself … are you truly who you want to be? Is this the life you really want? Are you living each day as your best self? What can you change today?

How would you answer those questions? Think about your daily life. Are you thriving, or going through the motions? Are your days full of work, relationships and activities that are true to your authentic self or do you feel trapped on a treadmill of responsibility? If you dream of a better life, now is the time to turn your dream into reality.

The tools you need to design a life that is fulfilling on the deepest levels are within your grasp. Written by Mike Bayer, known to the thousands of clients whose lives he has changed as Coach Mike, “Best Self” can show you how.

Bayer has helped everyone from pop stars to business executives to people just like you discover the freedom to be their best selves. By asking them and leading them to ask themselves a series of important but tough questions, such as “What are your core values?,” “Do you go to bed each day more knowledgeable than when you woke up?” and “Am I neglecting some aspect of my physical health out of fear or denial?,” he helps them see what their Best Selves and Anti-Selves really look like. As a mental health specialist, a personal development coach and an all-around change agent, Bayer has seen the amazing ways in which lives can improve with honesty and clarity. He understands the daily struggles people face intimately, because he’s faced – and overcome – his own, and he knows that change is possible.

By working through each of the Seven SPHERES of Life – Social, Personal, Health, Education, Relationships, Employment and Spiritual Development – “Best Self” is an accessible and interactive book that distills all of Bayer’s wisdom into a compact, focused guide that can ignite your desire for change.

The Seven SPHERES of Life:

Social

Take a look at your social life in terms of your communication skills and dive into how you feel in your own skin when interacting with others.

Personal

In attempting to be your personal best self, work to have an abundance of respect and compassion for yourself. Take care of yourself by nurturing an authentic, positive self-image to see benefits reach other spheres of your life.

Health

If you’re unhealthy, it’s difficult to be your best self in other areas. The goal should be to act in your own best interests when it comes to your physical health in order to feel your best and be at your best.

Education

Even if you didn’t enjoy school or believe you simply don’t like the process of taking in new information, you may still be thirsty for knowledge in areas that interest you on a deeper level. Find what quenches your unique interests and explore the best methods to learn in those areas.

Relationships

From time to time, relationships can get out of balance. However, you can be proactive about doing your part to get them back to equilibrium by determining ways to control your authenticity and what you can do when those around you aren’t reflecting their own.

Employment

Determine whether you’re acting as your best self at work just as you are at home. If you can’t be yourself at work, you may be wasting valuable time. Don’t lose yourself in a fear of trying to be something you aren’t while on the job.

Spiritual Development

The place within you from which goodness radiates can be described as your spiritual self. It’s where you form integrity, values and treatment of other people, so focus on aligning those traits with your vision of your best self.

Learn more about how to become your best self and take a self-assessment quiz at coachmikebayer.com/book.

*Photo courtesy of Getty Images 

*FF

The post How to Become Your Best Self appeared first on AKA Mom Magazine.

Treat family, friends and co-workers to something they will all love this Valentine’s Day by making easy and impressive cookies. Start with your favorite roll-out cookie recipe or simply dress up store-bought ones by adding some simple details with icing.

From the cupids at Wilton, here are three ways to leave them smitten with sweets this Valentine’s Day: 

• Desserts with dimension. Triple your treats by stacking three decorated cookies in different sizes together and attach them with icing.
• Complement with color. A simple piping technique looks stunning when piped in different colors on your cookies.
• Get to gifting. Wrap your finished treats in a Valentine’s Day treat bag or box.

For more fun and delicious Valentine’s Day recipes, baking tips and inspiration, visit www.wilton.com.

Stackable Ombre Heart Cookies

• Each stacked cookie serves 1.
• Favorite roll-out cookie recipe
• Royal icing (recipe on wilton.com)
• Rose Icing Color
• Heart Micro Mini Icing Decorations

Directions:

Prepare and roll out cookie dough following recipe directions. Use 3 smallest cutters from 4-piece heart nesting cookie cutter set to cut out shapes. Bake and cool cookies.

Divide royal icing into three equal portions, and tint 3 shades of rose. Thin a portion of each shade following recipe directions. Use tip 3 and full-strength tinted icing to outline cookies. Use thinned tinted icing in cut decorating bag to fill in cookies; gently tap to smooth icing. Let dry overnight.

Use icing to attach cookies, stacking largest to smallest; place icing decoration on top.

Scalloped Heart Cookies

• Each cookie serves 1.
• Favorite roll-out cookie recipe
• Ready-To-Use White Creamy Decorator Icing
• Icing Colors: Burgundy, Red-Red and Christmas Red

Directions:

Prepare and roll out dough following recipe directions. Use largest cutter from the 4-piece heart nesting cookie cutter set to cut out shape. Bake and cool cookies.

Divide icing into four equal portions. Tint one of each portion light burgundy, dark burgundy and combination of red-red/Christmas red. Reserve last portion white.

Starting from top edge of heart, use tip 102 and icing in dark burgundy, light burgundy, red and white to pipe V-shaped groups of two petals, one piped from left and one from right, to create row of petals in alternating colors. Repeat with second row between petals in first row. Continue to repeat pattern until cookies are covered.

*FF

The post Show Off Your Sweet Side This Valentine’s Day appeared first on AKA Mom Magazine.

If gift-giving isn’t your strong suit, occasions like Valentine’s Day are likely to bring on stress and worry, but procrastinating will only serve to elevate your unease.

Follow these steps to simplify your shopping, and while you may not come to love the task of finding the perfect gift, your loved one will undoubtedly appreciate your effort.

1. Browse for ideas online. Many retailers offer special promotions and gift idea sections on their websites, so finding inspiration can be as easy as visiting the sites of your loved one’s favorite stores. There are also dozens of articles online to help get the ideas flowing. Searches such as “gifts for horse lovers” or “Valentine’s gifts for a new boyfriend” will reveal a long list of ideas to peruse.

2. Keep it simple. Although the advertising industry works hard to convince consumers otherwise, Valentine’s Day isn’t really all about the bling. Sure, a pretty bauble is a welcome gift, but there are plenty of ways to show your affection that don’t require spending a month’s salary. A heartfelt card paired with a memento of a meaningful event or place in your relationship sends the same loving sentiment.

3. Make it a (different) date. For many couples, navigating the demands of work, kids and life make spending time together a luxury. Instead of fighting crowds at busy restaurants on the official date, celebrate your love on a day of your own choosing, when you can relax and enjoy the time together without the pressure to rush through dessert so your table can be flipped for the next waiting couple.

4. Give blooms a boost. A dozen long-stem red roses is a beautiful gesture, but unless your intended rose receiver is a strictly traditional type, try adding a little spice to your floral arrangement. Go for a bouquet in her favorite color, or have the flowers arranged in a practical vessel she can reuse to remember the occasion, such as a cocktail shaker or a watering can.

5. Go ahead, gift yourself. It may seem counter-intuitive, but finding a gift you’ll enjoy may inspire an idea for your loved one. The trick is finding something you can share together, whether it’s tickets to a show or his and hers mugs for enjoying your favorite brew. Just be sure the item is something your intended will share your enthusiasm for, or you may as well go buy a blender.

Find more ideas to simplify every occasion at eLivingToday.com.

*FF

*Photo courtesy of Getty Images

The post 5 Easy Ways to Say “I Love You” appeared first on AKA Mom Magazine.