Additional Posts From This Author
Dec 20, 2024
We’ve all had dealings with a cheap person. Maybe it’s the friend who borrows money from you and won't return it or the coworker who “forgets” to contribute to group gifts but still signs the card. There is quite a difference between frugal and cheap. While frugal is considered a smart and reasonable way to...
Dec 17, 2024
As the temperature drops and the holiday season kicks into gear, many Americans brace themselves for higher energy bills and the splurge on festive gifts. However, there are some surprising items that are best purchased outside of wintertime. This is often due to the interplay between supply and demand, compounded by factors beyond our control...
Dec 16, 2024
As the chill of winter sets in, it’s a great time to transform our homes into a cozy, magical wonderland for family and guests. If you really want to embrace the season, adding lights and decorations can not only help evoke that cheerful mood but also kick off the holidays on the right note. It’s...
Dec 16, 2024
Sometimes, I can’t help but look at older people and think: How did they end up so stooped? I feel for them, and it’s also a stark reminder of what I need to do so that I don’t end up like that. While some unpreventable and incurable medical conditions can cause our bodies to shrivel,...
Dec 13, 2024
Take a moment and form a mental picture of someone you consider a truly “good” person. Why do you give them this title above the rest? Being a good person doesn’t require grand gestures or life-changing acts. Often, it’s the small, thoughtful actions that reveal someone’s true character. I don’t claim to be the best...
Dec 12, 2024
I know you don’t feel like getting up when you are sitting down at your desk! I have a standing desk, which seemed like a great idea at the time, yet the thought of being on my feet for a while is not very appealing. When we are sitting down and in the middle of...
Dec 11, 2024
In a country that embraces consumerism, it’s easy to get caught up in the next overly hyped or trending product that everyone is talking about. What seems like a few small expenses can quickly snowball into a massive bill that drains us financially. Imagine what you could achieve if you redirected that wasted money. Imagine!...
Dec 11, 2024
Brr, it’s chilly outside these days! Who needs an ice bath when you can step into a freezing cold car every morning? Joking aside, driving a vehicle in cold weather can be a dangerous ordeal, and not taking care of your car can result in reduced performance and lifespan. Cars are built to endure all...
Dec 09, 2024
Christmas myths go far beyond the classic tales of Santa Claus. Thanks to the influence of media, popular culture, and society, countless misconceptions have taken root. From the biblical account of Christ’s birth to the misunderstood meaning behind “Xmas,” these myths are perpetuated during the popular holiday celebration — but how much of what we...
Dec 09, 2024
Gen Z is the talk of the workplace, having gained a reputation for challenging behavior and a poor work ethic. Ouch! And it’s not just the media that are perpetuating the stereotypes, but hiring managers, too. From unmistakable skill gaps to strict workplace expectations, Gen Z faces unique hurdles that can make it seemingly difficult...
Dec 08, 2024
Travelers witness numerous weather-related hazards each year, all of which contribute to a significant number of accidents. As temperatures drop and snow begins to blanket the roads, there has never been a better time to winterize your car. While most drivers remember to check tires and stock up on the de-icer, there could be small...
Dec 06, 2024
When we are stuck indoors in winter, we usually sink into the sofa with the TV remote and a snack in hand. If there is nothing good to watch, we begin to scroll through social media for longer than we care to admit. This approach to winter can slowly drain our energy levels and spirit!...
Dec 05, 2024
If an extreme weather event hits this winter, you need to be prepared. Should this happen, you could be days or even weeks without access to life-saving supplies. A well-stocked home ensures you’re ready for any situation without the need to run out into the cold. By taking the time now to buy and store...
Dec 05, 2024
As you have probably learned by now, starting your New Year’s resolutions in January just doesn’t work. Well, at least not for the vast majority of people. James Clear, the author of Atomic Habits, tells us that results have very little to do with the goals themselves but nearly everything to do with the systems...
Dec 04, 2024
The other day I went to get a parking ticket when I discovered that the machine doesn’t take card. Defeated, I searched my car for several minutes for loose change when suddenly a lady came up in front of me and, with a bright smile, handed me a coin and said to take that for...
Dec 04, 2024
December is often viewed as a time to wind down, indulge in holiday celebrations, and reflect on the year gone by. But it’s also the perfect month to lay the groundwork for a successful year ahead. We are honestly better off prepping for 2025 now than procrastinating until January 1st comes around. These thirty-one days...
Dec 03, 2024
Planning a trip in winter should be a refreshing and exciting experience. Amid the festive magic and cheer, you create lasting memories with family and those who you hold dear. However, don’t let small mistakes turn your vacation into a snowball of stress. There are some things you certainly shouldn’t do if you plan to...
Dec 03, 2024
Christmas is truly a magical time of year, and there is no better way to celebrate it than by connecting with others and making lasting memories. Not only is it a great time to receive gifts, but it’s also a time we make a conscientious effort to give to others, too. While classic traditions like...
Dec 01, 2024
As the New Year approaches, it's time to take a hard look at the daily routines that might be sabotaging your success — poor work-life balance, procrastination, and bad time management, to name a few. Imagine walking into 2025 with the confidence that you are maximizing your time and energy. Breaking away from unproductive work...
Nov 30, 2024
You could be spending a lot more on winter gear than you need to for your family. The truth is, there is no need to shell out the full retail price for cozy clothing. As a frugal person myself, I always like to shop for the best deals. I’m not embarrassed to admit I sometimes...
Nov 25, 2024
You could have a few surprising items in your home that actually get more valuable with time. Many people stash items away, never realizing they could be sitting on a small fortune or a unique piece of history. Vintage and antique items — from toys to furniture — can net you a fine price if...
Nov 26, 2024
Unpredictable weather patterns, crowded airports, and bulky luggage. Winter is here, and with it, the challenges of traveling during colder months. The key to a hassle-free winter adventure lies in smart preparation. Whether you're heading to a snowy retreat or chasing the sun in warmer climates, knowing the right hacks when traveling in winter can...
Nov 22, 2024
If you feel thirsty, you are already dehydrated. Some of the effects of chronic dehydration include fatigue, headaches, cramps, skin problems, and even weight gain. Healthcare professionals recommend that adults consume six to eight eight-ounce glasses of water per day, and it’s the most important thing you can do to prevent kidney stones, the National...
Nov 21, 2024
Some diners in the US have withstood the difficult test of time, remaining open for centuries despite the odds. Imagine the rich history that lies between the walls of these iconic landmarks, brimming with stories just waiting to be shared. From ancient sturdy diner tables and chairs to legendary saloons and artwork, these landmarks are...
Nov 21, 2024
You know it’s starting to get cold when you can visibly see your breath hit the icy air. Or if you are one of the unlucky ones who must defrost their car in the mornings. You might think that cold hands and feet are all part and parcel of this chilly season, but there are...
Nov 20, 2024
There is no better feeling than knowing you’ve got a big trip coming up, free from the worries of work and other stressful responsibilities that are plaguing your mind right now. While big trips are something wonderful to look forward to and provide a great sense of satisfaction and even excitement, they often require a...
Nov 19, 2024
My family name originates only about 30 miles from my home in Ireland, which is insane to think about. Over the years, we bought three pubs in a nearby town, but with an unfortunate bout of alcoholism, we sold everything and then eventually settled on a dairy farm. Connecting with your past is a beautiful...
Nov 16, 2024
Ever wandered through an old home and noticed strange little nooks, hidden staircases, or quirky features that seem to serve no real purpose? These quirky details weren’t placed there by chance; each served a specific purpose that was essential to daily life in another era. With advancements in indoor plumbing and electricity, many of these...
Nov 16, 2024
Wallpaper removal can be a massive headache! However, if you have dated wallpaper that no longer matches your style, don’t be afraid to take it down. It doesn't matter if you have the traditional paste, peelable, or removable wallpaper — there are a few effective ways to remove it without damaging your walls. Sure, it...
Nov 18, 2024
Have you learned about all the money-saving tips and strategies and are still struggling to get by? Or maybe you’ve already cut back on some of the more obvious splurges but have yet to see any major change to your savings? While there’s no harm in treating yourself the odd time, there is no denying...
Nov 15, 2024
If you’re like me, facing the cold winter months can take your mood down a notch. As a kid, I handled winters mightily well, but as I got older, the dark mornings and short evenings really started to take their toll. The American Psychiatric Association’s (APA) Healthy Minds Monthly poll found that declining mood can...
Nov 14, 2024
Imagine a weekend full of laughter, bonding, and excitement, where you get to recharge while the kids are having a blast. If you’re at your wit’s end with your energetic children, it might be time to find more weekend activities to keep them engaged! Discovering new ways to challenge their minds and channel their boundless...
Nov 13, 2024
Unless you are really looking, you probably haven’t noticed the stunning details and designs that embellish old homes. Buildings that dot our cities, towns, and villages were all built during various architectural periods, which is why they have such unique features. These elements were incorporated into the design of the home thanks to painstaking craftsmanship...
Nov 13, 2024
Most of us don’t like our day jobs. If this is the case for you, why not at least make it high-paying? These well-paying jobs probably won’t be much more impressive than your current position, but at least you can afford nice things. If you are not too squeamish, you might want to consider sacrificing...
Nov 13, 2024
Are we there yet? There is no harm in taking a rest stop at the gas station, provided that you follow the correct protocol. Sometimes, at the gas station, etiquette goes out the car window. From time to time, you may witness an individual who totally bends the rules and fails to follow the basic...
Nov 12, 2024
Being a working parent is a tough gig, with no weekends or holiday breaks. For so many parents, it can feel like there is not enough time in the day to get things done. While it might feel almost impossible to balance everything right now, we promise these proven and tested hacks will help you...
Nov 12, 2024
Want to make your money go further without sacrificing the things that you love? Living frugally doesn’t mean missing out; it’s all about being smart with how you spend so you can still enjoy life. As a writer, my lifestyle is far from that of opulence. However, with a few adjustments, I make my budget...
Nov 12, 2024
Living in or nearby a town can sometimes feel like it sucks away at our energy. There is less to do and see than in other places, and you may notice many young people leaving it the first chance they get. Sometimes, we get into a small-town mentality that this is all there is to...
Nov 11, 2024
Reimagining old items as new can take a little practice. I have many things lying around the house that I barely give any notice to, and I think it’s time I do something about it! Repurposing ideas are fantastic for the environment and can look far more chic than you could ever imagine. When you...
Nov 10, 2024
When your loved ones live far away from home, their absence can feel almost like heartbreak. It’s easy to feel isolated when there are hundreds or even thousands of miles between you. It is up to all parties to make an effort to stay in contact and keep the relationship strong. With a few intentional...
Nov 10, 2024
It can be challenging to choose the healthy options while eating out. Restaurants often come with a high price tag, and usually, the most convenient choice after a hard work day is fast food. Fast food is not known to be healthy; it comes loaded with calories, bad fats, hidden sugars, and way too much...
Nov 09, 2024
We sometimes think landlords are a source of infinite resources and wealth, but this is a bit of a stretch. Landlords are much more dependent on renters than they might realize. The truth is, the rental payments don't just line the landlord's pockets. They have a lot of other bills to pay, and they need...
Nov 08, 2024
Dirty bathrooms are my least favorite place to clean. While it is one of the smallest spaces in our home, it can certainly feel like the most time-consuming. Regularly cleaning your bathroom can help prevent the buildup of scum, stains, mildew, and mold, which will only get worse the longer you leave it. The more...
Nov 07, 2024
Brands tell us their story to entice us to buy, but what if their taglines actually revealed the real truth behind their offering? Imagine if slogans didn’t sugarcoat things but instead gave a candid look at what we experience. They would certainly sound quite different! Drawing on my own experience with these large corporations, here...
Nov 06, 2024
Is your shed a cluttered catch-all for everything you don't want in the house? It's certainly a useful addition to any garden or backyard! While a shed may seem like a perfectly suitable storage solution, it is vulnerable to the elements and unwanted pests. There are some items you certainly don’t want to leave in...
Nov 05, 2024
Living in a materialistic world hasn’t been all it’s choked up to be. As it turns out, if you want to start simplifying your life, understanding the concept of minimalism is a fantastic place to start. Minimalism is about stripping away the excess things in our lives. While you might not think it, the stuff...
Nov 04, 2024
Are you struggling to stay productive while working from home? Remote workers often feel happier with their schedules and more in control of their lives. Yet, working from home can also lead to major focus and productivity problems. Imagine working smarter, not harder, with strategies that boost your focus and efficiency without adding to your...
Nov 03, 2024
Airbnb has had tens of thousands of customer support tickets related to surveillance devices over the last decade. Unfortunately, hidden cameras are an issue in the short-term rental industry, and despite being a federal misdemeanor, this isn’t enough to deter some people from installing them in their accommodation. Airbnb states on its website that we...
Nov 02, 2024
Humans spend around one-third of their lives sleeping. Getting a good night's sleep is one of the best ways to improve your health. Your mattress is a huge factor in support and comfort while sleeping. It is a long-term health investment that contributes to a higher quality of life. Of course, after several years of...
Nov 01, 2024
Do you consider yourself a polite person? If you do, you probably engage in some habits that are actually annoying. Sometimes, even good manners secretly irritate those around you. Understanding common faux pas will help you become more socially aware. We turned to social media forums online to find their ultimate “ick” when it comes...
Nov 01, 2024
According to the FBI, burglaries occur every 22.6 seconds in the United States. Burglars do not necessarily look for the fanciest of homes to rob. They look for the ones with the lowest risk of being caught. Here are some red flags that your home is an easy target for burglars and what you can...
Oct 31, 2024
It breaks our hearts to see our cute pets out of sorts, and we would do anything to help them get back to their happy-go-lucky selves. While dogs cannot tell us how they feel, they may show subtle signs to let you know they are depressed. A word of warning — while it may appear...
Oct 31, 2024
Imagine feeling more energized, focused, and in control of your day-to-day routine. Your routine is a series of actions you take; the choices you make form habits that can be difficult to change over time. It might seem crazy to think you can transform your life in 30 days. But 30 days is enough to...
Oct 30, 2024
If you don’t like sports, maybe you just haven’t found the right one for you. Curious about the weirdest games people actually play? These strange yet fascinating activities are ones you’ve probably never heard of but might just want to watch (or even join). As a sports enthusiast who has been involved in everything from...
Oct 30, 2024
Have you walked into a room and felt totally underdressed? It’s been the story of my life! The truth is, there are a few simple fashion tricks that anyone can master. It’s not about following every trend on the planet but about understanding what works for you and your personal style. Don’t wait around. We...
Oct 28, 2024
Don’t throw away your dryer lint! Lint, the short, fuzzy fibers that separate from the surface of your clothes, have many uses once they leave your dryer. When you learn about these genius applications, you won’t want to get rid of the lint again. The internet is full of harmful advice on how to use...
Oct 25, 2024
Cats are usually outgoing and active. If you notice your cat isn’t quite themselves, they might be depressed. Diagnosing depression in cats is a little different than in humans. Many owners fail to detect depression and sadness in cats, as they may not show any obvious signs. Cat owners need to be aware of how...
Oct 25, 2024
Imagine coming home to a space that feels brand new — without the guilt of overspending. Who said you need to dish out thousands of dollars for a home upgrade? With $100 or less, you can get creative, and dare I say inventive, with your current home setup. Often, when you have to budget, you...
Oct 25, 2024
Imagine coming home to a space that feels brand new — without the guilt of overspending. Who said you need to dish out thousands of dollars for a home upgrade? With $100 or less, you can get creative, and dare I say inventive, with your current home setup. Often, when you have to budget, you...
Oct 25, 2024
As cats age, their health and mood begin to change. Sometimes, our little habits that once worked when they were young can actually lead to health problems. There are several things we can do to help senior cats live out the rest of their days in comfort. With a few small adjustments, we can make...
Oct 24, 2024
Friendships have the power to bring joy to our lives and to affect our moods, security, and even health. When your friend, who you’ve probably depended on quite a bit in the past, decides to move to another state (or country), it can be heart-wrenching. I come from a small town, and people often come...
Oct 23, 2024
Finding the “perfect” pet doesn't exist. Let me tell you why: some people buy animals because they believe they will be easy to look after. As it turns out, they require attention and care and usually can't be left unattended in their cages all week long. So, before you go running to the pet store,...
Oct 23, 2024
Ever have the feeling your kitchen isn't as clean as it could be? Some spots in your kitchen are easy to miss during the cleaning process and gather filth. Once you make a habit of disinfecting these places, you will find the space feels and looks much better than before. It is much easier to...
Oct 22, 2024
Food poisoning can happen to anyone. And it can be fatal. Safe food handling practices are the best way to protect yourself from food poisoning. You should also be careful to store food only for as long as its shelf life allows. Unfortunately, we can't always depend on expiry dates to tell us how long...
Oct 21, 2024
The 1970s marked a time of transformation as gender equality and fresh perspectives on work and family life reshaped societal norms. This decade was also a fantastic time for fashion that embraced confidence, individuality, and carefree styles. Is it any wonder it’s coming back into vogue? With some modern-day twists, we can learn to once...
Oct 21, 2024
Cats may seem like they’re relaxing all day, but when the lights go out, the real action begins. A hyperactive cat, running around your home at the latest hours of the night can ruin your sleep, making getting up the next day difficult. If your cat has this annoying habit, there are a few things...
Oct 18, 2024
Slow living is all about living consciously and meaningfully in line with your core values. You intentionally simplify your lifestyle so you can be better connected to yourself and the things that matter to you. Fast doesn’t always mean better. In fact, it can mean poorer-quality work and more mistakes, which contribute to time loss....
Oct 18, 2024
I’m fortunate enough to have traveled to many countries, from Asia and America to Europe, but it hasn’t always been plain sailing. It can be painful to fork out money for fines you didn’t even know about or get scammed. Careful planning is the best way to make any trip worthwhile, and it can help...
Oct 17, 2024
It's unfortunate, but it's estimated that about 10 to 20 percent of adults are allergic to cats. If you love cats but dread the allergies they might trigger, don’t despair! No hypoallergenic cat actually exists, but that doesn’t mean allergy sufferers have to avoid them like the plague. Here are 12 cat breeds known to...
Oct 17, 2024
Our dogs teach us empathy. Reading their non-verbal cues offers significant insight into their thoughts and feelings. While dogs cannot communicate with you exactly what they want to say, there are dead giveaway signs that your doggy is not comfortable. Sometimes, we have to research why our pets behave the way they do. Several signs...
Oct 16, 2024
What if you could make your cleaning routine faster, easier, and more efficient — all with a tool you already own? Replacing the traditional mop and bucket since 2001, the Swiffer can clean up messes as soon as they happen. While your Swiffer does a good job of cleaning the floors, it has many other...
Oct 16, 2024
Just like us, dogs feel the effects of aging, from aching joints to sensory decline. When dogs get older, their needs may change and require special care. There are many ways we can make our homes even more comfortable for senior dogs so they can live with less pain and more joy. With the advice...
Oct 15, 2024
Did you know your morning coffee can do more than just give you a caffeine boost? Those used coffee grounds you’re about to toss are actually packed with hidden benefits! I love a good cup of coffee to start my morning. Yet, with so much caffeine, I am wondering what I should do with all...
Oct 15, 2024
Picture this: you're cruising down the highway, going on a road trip. What if the next exit offered something truly bizarre — and totally unforgettable? Many interesting roadside attractions are dotted across the United States. You just need to know where to look. If you are heading on a road trip, why not take the...
Oct 13, 2024
Some cat breeds do indeed have nine lives! This is great because sometimes it seems like our four-legged friends are doing everything they can to test their durability and mettle. When we plan to adopt a kitten, we ideally want one that will live a long, happy life with few health complications. While much of...
Oct 12, 2024
The grand gesture of a proposal would be enough to send anyone into a whirlwind of emotions. Marriage can be wonderful with the right person. But it poses a lot of questions and requires upfront planning well before the wedding day. Prior to setting your wedding venue and buying that expensive diamond ring, here are...
Oct 12, 2024
Raising teens is hard. Worries and problems are now more complex, involving issues such as peer pressure, mental health, and finding their identities. While there might be some tension in the relationship with your teen at times, these years can be very rewarding. It's essential to cultivate a healthy relationship with open communication and trust...
Oct 18, 2024
If you only use aluminum foil to cover food, then you are doing it wrong! Aluminum foil is a kitchen staple best known for lining baking sheets, covering dishes, and foiling meals for the oven, but there are so many more ways to utilize these thin, pliable sheets. It's finally time to use that roll...
Oct 09, 2024
Growing up in Ireland, which is synonymous with red hair, was a fun time. You were guaranteed to have at least a “ginger” or two in your class, as we called them. Unfortunately, the color wasn’t embraced for its beauty at the time. Kids liked to poke fun at these innocent faces who stood out...
Oct 09, 2024
Taking items from your hotel room can sometimes feel a bit like stealing. We paid for the hotel room, so we should be entitled to some complimentary items, right? However, if the hotel checks its inventory and realizes that something has gone missing that shouldn’t have, they may charge you for that lost item, because...
Oct 10, 2024
There is no better feeling than getting some alone time after a busy day. That blissful feeling of slipping into the comfort of your pajamas and snuggling up in a warm bed is nearly unmatched. For the ultimate relaxing experience, your bedroom should feel calm and comfortable, ready for you to fall into a gentle...
Oct 09, 2024
At-home offices don't need to be so boring. Personalize your home office so that you almost look forward to going to work! When your back starts to hurt from huddling over your kitchen table, you know something needs to change. Make some small adjustments to improve your space and maximize your productivity and motivation. Here...
Oct 08, 2024
Cats may appear cool, calm, and uncaring, but they are actually more affectionate than we realize. While they don’t go around wagging their tails and panting as our friendly dogs do, cats can feel a wide range of emotions and be pretty attached to their owners. Cats just choose to show their love in different...
Oct 07, 2024
The energy bill can be a significant amount of your budget each month. Fortunately, there are simple ways to lower your energy bill and make big savings. Small adjustments in your daily routine and minor upgrades around your home can lead to significant savings and contribute to a more sustainable and eco-friendly lifestyle. Here are...
Oct 07, 2024
Every minute of the day is an opportunity to choose. We can choose how we react to people, situations, and events in our lives. The daily commute to work is part of many people's lives, and sitting in traffic can make the process of getting to and from work feel even longer. Commuting can feel...
Oct 05, 2024
Sleep has so many benefits that even billionaires like Bill Gates clock up to eight hours each night. If someone as busy as Bill Gates can find seven or eight hours in the day for slumber, you can, too. Unfortunately, more than one-third of adults get less than the recommended seven hours of sleep each...
Oct 05, 2024
There are 86 billion neurons in our brains, and yet learning proves difficult. In truth, learning can be hard sometimes, but it's because many of us expect it to happen effortlessly. Our brains store and process an incredible amount of information every single day. Science says learning becomes more difficult as we age, so you...
Oct 05, 2024
Surrounding ourselves with family and our loved ones is probably one of the best things we can do for our wellbeing. It is difficult to stay in touch with loved ones, especially those who are far away. Life so easily distracts us from what and who are important to us. Don’t lose the connections you...
Oct 04, 2024
You might not think about it, but allowing dust, dirt, and mold to build up in the home can seriously impact our health. From asthma attacks to more serious respiratory issues, dust and other dangerous danders throughout your home can be everywhere and be a bigger issue than you realize. It’s easy to procrastinate and...
Oct 04, 2024
Wardrobe mistakes can diminish our confidence and make us feel insecure about our appearance. Fashion is subjective rather than objective, so you may not agree with everything I say, and that’s okay. The truth is, wearing an outfit with confidence can help you pull it off, even if the “fashion experts” tell you otherwise. The...
Oct 04, 2024
We’ve all had someone we loved pass away. The pain is enough to put our lives on hold and change us in ways we couldn’t have previously imagined. Traditionally, death is a taboo topic in some cultures and circles. There is a lot of fear and mystery that surrounds those final moments that people don’t...
Oct 04, 2024
Do you feel like your home could use a little TLC? We might not have much time to even consider renovating our homes, but a few simple upgrades could make a massive difference. Our goal should not be just to improve the look of any home but to make it as comfortable, private, and energy-efficient...
Oct 04, 2024
Imagine waking up every day with purpose, passion, and a clear vision of where you're headed in life. Are you living the life you’ve always dreamed of or merely going through the motions and doing what is just expected of you? The difference between the two lies in one simple yet powerful shift: living with...
Oct 03, 2024
Have you ever looked at the list of ingredients on those harsh chemical cleaners on the market? Yuck! Multipurpose cleaners are helpful when cleaning various surfaces in your home, but they are not exactly healthy or environmentally friendly when they're packed full of so many chemicals. Try these eco-friendly cleaning products and hacks to transform...
Oct 03, 2024
We all have the fundamental desire to be liked. When we receive compliments, it proves to us that we are, indeed, viewed positively and accepted by those around us. While sometimes comments can be downright insulting, other times insults can be thrown in a way that disguises them as compliments but, on further inspection, don’t...
Oct 02, 2024
Plastics have gotten a bad rap in recent years, so companies use buzzwords like “food-grade” and “BPA-free” to cut through the stigma. While marketing and scientific studies have eased our concerns to a certain degree, can we really trust plastic to continue to be our primary storage medium? Plastic is very cheap, and plastic containers...
Sep 30, 2024
Humans possess certain traits and abilities that set us apart from all other species on this planet. These characteristics not only make us unique, but they also contribute to our success and evolution as a species. The extraordinary individuals of the world are those who take some of these most positive characteristics and apply them...
Sep 29, 2024
The planet needs us to take action more than ever. Hotter temperatures, increased drought, and severe storms are some of the effects of climate change that we're currently dealing with as a product of our environmental impact. Harmful fossil fuels such as coal generate most of the energy in the U.S., resulting in greenhouse gases...
Sep 29, 2024
A flying machine? Impossible. The internet for reading? Why isn’t that what the newspaper is for? New inventions stir the public, and not always in a good way. The fear of the unknown and potential adverse effects can lead to backlash and criticism. Yet even the inventions that initially seemed otherworldly proved to be a...
Sep 29, 2024
We want a living room that’s cozy, inviting, and feels like home — somewhere with a sofa you can really sink into after a long, tiring day. What if I told you that you don’t have to spend a couple of hundred dollars to achieve that? You would be surprised by how much money you...
Sep 28, 2024
The United States is vulnerable to hurricane disasters. Over the years, numerous hurricanes have hit the U.S., leaving behind a trail of destruction in their wake. These intense winds blow in a large spiral of 74 miles per hour or more, which may have a diameter of 400 miles. The consequences are real: heavy rainfall,...
Sep 28, 2024
A home design might seem like a great decision until you're pulling your hair out trying to replicate the cover of Elle Decor. Whether you're designing for the first time or upgrading furniture and paint years later, it’s important to consider a few key elements before diving into a home design project. Some designs are...
Sep 14, 2024
Many people are completely unaware of their toxic traits, causing them to ruin every single relationship they are in. Several communication mistakes can ruin a relationship. We all have our disagreements with others, but what flaws cause these breakdowns to the point of no return? Here are some of the worst communication mistakes, which can...
Sep 02, 2024
What’s the best way to experience diverse cultures, meet new friends, and have the time of your life? Festivals, of course! Festivals bring people together and showcase the richness of our shared humanity. From elaborate costumes to electrifying performances, before you know it, you’re swept up in the moment, hugging new people and singing at...
Aug 31, 2024
We all know someone with a knack for rubbing people the wrong way. It could be a coworker, a friend of a friend, or even a family member. What if we told you that sometimes you might be guilty of these unlikable behaviors? While it's perfectly normal to have off days and be grumpy, it's...
Aug 30, 2024
We’ve all had to work with someone who was difficult and made our jobs more stressful than they needed to be. Fostering good relationships at work can take a lot of time and energy, and some coworkers can be particularly challenging. When we encounter difficult coworkers, it may be easiest to avoid them or blame...
Aug 28, 2024
Think venting is good for you? Research suggests the opposite, and complaining can actually cause you to feel worse over time. When you complain a lot, it can make the people around you very unhappy. They might even start avoiding you because they don’t want to get wrapped up in negative energy. We may have...
Aug 29, 2024
The world we live in today is shaped by countless inventions that have revolutionized how we live, work, and communicate. While many inventors have long been forgotten, their work lives on, deeply ingrained in our day-to-day. Sometimes, we need to be reminded of just how lucky we have it. These groundbreaking inventions have had a...
Aug 26, 2024
Many employers look for workers with “good communication skills,” a character trait that is often listed as a requirement on job postings. Effective communication is the cornerstone of success in any career. Whether you're aiming for a leadership role, seeking to improve team collaboration, or enhancing your professional relationships, mastering effective communication skills is essential....
Aug 26, 2024
I recently read a story about a mom who got her child's attention by creating an account on Roblox and telling her in the game to take the food out of the freezer. Sometimes, we feel we have to go to great lengths to get our teens to listen to us. But our efforts are...
Aug 25, 2024
Life can sometimes feel monotonous, with the same routine week in and week out. Sometimes, we feel we are just existing and getting by, barely finding time to enjoy ourselves. But what's to say you can't make a conscious choice to make today a good day? It doesn't have to be a bank holiday weekend,...
Aug 24, 2024
Friendships have a big impact on our mental and emotional well-being. They provide support, reduce stress, and enrich our lives. Sometimes, despite our best efforts, these relationships do not go as well as we expect them to. Maintaining and nurturing friendships becomes tougher as we grow older and life gets in the way. Here are...
Aug 24, 2024
Dogs communicate with us in different ways. Wagging tails and the zoomies may convey their feelings of happiness and excitement, while eye contact is often thought of as their way of saying “I love you.” Have you ever noticed your dog acting out of sorts and wondered if it meant something more? While some changes...
Aug 24, 2024
We love summer until we see a colony of ants walking up the walls or a cockroach hiding in our cupboard. If you are like me, you’ll take a giant step back or, God forbid, scream over the encounter. How can we stop these unwanted pests from invading our homes? They are not even contributing...
Aug 23, 2024
With school just around the corner, it's time to get ready if you haven't already. Whether you're a parent gearing up for your child's return to the classroom or a student preparing to take on new challenges, having a comprehensive back-to-school shopping list is a necessity. Start the year on the right foot with these...
Aug 23, 2024
Traveling is an experience unlike any other. There is a thrill in discovering new landscapes, tasting different foods, and immersing yourself in a culture that's different from your own. However, one thing stands between you and your destination: the airport. The airport is an interesting place because you never know what will go wrong. Having...
Aug 23, 2024
While you may be interested in seeing the Mona Lisa one day, have you thought about instead visiting the unique Paris sewer museum that royalty once desired to explore? How about learning the history of art by diving under the sea? There are many well-known and famous museums around the world, but let us take...
Aug 22, 2024
Why call the repair guy when we can make simple fixes in as little as 60 seconds? Our time is valuable, and I understand life is busy enough without doing DIY projects for half of the day. Yet, there are simple ways to improve our homes that don't take much effort or supplies. Home repairs...
Aug 22, 2024
There’s a unique thrill in navigating the unknown, relying solely on your instincts, and embracing the unexpected. Traveling solo can certainly feel nerve-wracking the first few times. But there is certainly no need to be worried if you plan correctly! As a solo traveler, I have learned a few essential safety tips to keep in...
Aug 20, 2024
Don’t want to pay an extra $50 for the checked-in bag? We hear you. Packing can be a stressful task. You will likely need to make one or two trips to the store to get everything you need, and then you struggle to fit it all within the measly dimensions of your travel luggage. Not...
Aug 20, 2024
You may know it, but there is more than one way to use a wad of toothpaste! Sure, its primary purpose is to keep your teeth clean, but it's far more versatile than many expect. The abrasive ingredients, such as baking soda and hydrogen peroxide, can help with some heavy-duty tasks around the home. Cut...
Aug 20, 2024
We all love coming home to our snuggly cat and petting the eager-to-please dog in the park, but what about those who come home to a fennec fox or cuddle with a capybara? Exotic pets offer a unique companionship that goes beyond the ordinary. While everyone may have a different definition of an exotic pet,...
Aug 19, 2024
Many people go through life totally unaware of the things that they could be doing better. They don't realize how their simple daily practices are producing less-than-desirable results. These practices become so ingrained that we assume we are doing them right and raise an eyebrow at anyone else who might be thinking otherwise. However, many...
Aug 19, 2024
Trying to solve the fashion industry's carbon footprint is near-impossible, but what we can take control of is the number of clothes we buy and throw out. Consciously repurposing your old clothes is one way to help address the environmental crisis. On average, each consumer in the United States discards about 81.5 pounds of clothing...
Aug 19, 2024
What is your idea of success? Many people want to be and have it all, from good looks and dazzling suits to lavish cars, paradise vacations, and a fat bank account. If you haven’t already fallen for social media's notion of success, you may realize that we need much less to be happy and that...
Aug 07, 2024
When it's sunny outside, and everyone is in a good mood, there is no better way to mark the occasion than hosting a barbecue in your back yard. Who doesn't love a good barbecue in summer, when you catch up with your loved ones and friends, drink cold beers, and eat mouthwatering grilled burgers and...