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How farmers can plan to increase income potential

2021-10-26T07:07:00

(BPT) – Post-harvest gives farmers a chance to finally sit down and take a break after a busy season. It gives them the time to track their inputs, meet with their trusted advisers, evaluate the decisions they made this year and see how those decisions ultimately affected their return on investment. Farmers must be both forward thinking and retrospective, understanding the big picture while still digging into the nitty gritty of each field, to produce the highest potential yield and drive profit.

According to Mark Callender, farm manager at Farmers National Company in Dighton, Kansas, optimistic growers have shifted from saving to spending — investing now to drive profits higher on good land. Callender encourages farmers to review input costs every year as they develop their plans. “We analyze all our farms annually for cost per acre and per bushel,” Callender explained. “By comparing production numbers with seed, fertilizer, weed control and other costs, growers learn their return on investment for quality products versus generics, for example.”

Callender said farmers know their break-even costs, using the data available today to provide better insight into individual fields. “Top producers spend more to achieve better weed control to drive top yields. By examining costs on a per-bushel basis, they can justify higher costs per acre when an agronomic practice delivers more bushels.”

Preparing for 2022

Many producers budget per acre for the whole operation, notes Lynn Sandlin, ag economist and business intelligence lead at Syngenta, but opportunity exists during more profitable times to budget directly at the field level — to maximize profit at the bushel level.

Sometimes it requires better tools, sound advice and a shift in thinking to manage each field’s potential at the bushel level. “Trusted advisers help growers increase field productivity with an eye on profit per bushel,” Sandlin said.

Fortunately, new tools are available to help farmers find growth opportunities. “Years of depressed prices pushed some growers to try to save their way to prosperity with cheaper inputs and generics,” says Paul Backman, commercial unit head for the West Heartland region, Syngenta. “Our Syngenta AgriEdge whole-farm management program lets growers see how better products can deliver higher productivity on a cost-per-bushel level.”

Reviewing 2021 decisions against actual yield helps growers understand real costs — shifting from a cost mindset to an investment mindset.

“Retailers also play vital roles across farm input decisions,” Backman says. “Our sales reps and AgriEdge specialists help growers see small gains in each field, adding up to more bushels. Good management plans evolve as more data drives greater field-by-field profits.”

Retailers trust agronomics

Syngenta sales representative Mark Dozler explained the input-cost-per-bushel method of thinking: “I worked with a retailer in Nebraska to build an input-cost-value spreadsheet, showing that if a grower removes a $30 fungicide from their plan, cost per bushel increases — because removing that fungicide reduces yield by at least 10 bushels per acre. The data proving that was eye-opening.”

Defining more yield-for-weed control challenges everyday thinking and requires digging into details beyond a $40-50 per acre herbicide budget.

Field-by-field profit

Technical advancements in corn and soybean genetics also play a critical role in productivity per field and cost per bushel.

“Many retailers take pride in knowing agronomic details so they can recommend the best hybrid for each field,” said Brent Rockers, a Syngenta district manager in Missouri, Kansas and Oklahoma.

“Our research provides growers with seeding rates, fertility and plant health advice that improves their ability to strategize and budget,” Rockers said. “And our Cropwise Seed Selector tool provides growers with a list of hybrids matching their soil classifications by field.”

Advisers help growers fine-tune their selections, following the crop through harvest — and use that data to help build more profitability.

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4 ways to achieve small wins toward your nutrition goals

2021-10-25T23:01:00

(BPT) – Face it, the past year has been tough. It’s been all too easy to lose track of your wellness goals, especially around nutrition. The good news is, you can get back on track by working toward “small wins” — simple steps that improve your nutrition — and celebrate each one to inspire further improvements. In a recent online survey, 80% said that their perception of health and wellness has changed over the past year. The survey, conducted by Pollfish for Simply Good Foods, also found that 59% were trying to eat a better diet.

“Nutrition is key to achieving overall wellness,” said Colette Heimowitz, MS, New York Times bestselling author and vice president of Nutrition Communication and Education at Atkins. “Making small changes today can reap big gains down the road, improving your well-being for years to come.”

What small wins can help improve your nutrition?

You’re more likely to stick with changes if they’re not too hard to achieve. Aim for simple ways to increase protein and healthy fats while reducing carbs and sugar. Here are some ideas to get you started.

1. Make easy recipe swaps, like swapping out mashed potatoes for whipped cauliflower. Steam or boil cauliflower florets 10-15 minutes (check with fork for softness), then let sit in a colander or strainer for a while to drain excess water. Mash or use food processor to blend cauliflower with your choice of butter, sauteed garlic or other seasonings.

2. Enjoy sweet treats with less sugar and more protein, like the new Atkins Chocolate Creme Protein Wafer Crisp Bar. They’re light and crispy wafers with a chocolatey crème filling and delicious chocolatey coating — with 10 grams of protein, 6 grams of fiber and only 1 gram of sugar, making them perfect for an afternoon pick-me-up. Or boost your energy with an Atkins Chocolate Almond Butter Protein Bar, made with a soft dough layer topped with real almond butter, almond crunch and a delicious chocolatey coating. With a whopping 16 grams of protein, each bar can satisfy your hunger on the go, without tons of sugar.

3. Increase your vitamin intake by using seasonal produce and nutrient-rich proteins to boost the vitamin content of your dishes. Grate veggies like carrots into ground meat dishes and casseroles for extra vitamin A, C and B6, plus other nutrients. Vitamin D is also harder to get enough of during colder months, when you spend less time in the sunshine. Foods rich in vitamin D include tuna and salmon, cheese and egg yolks.

4. Find recipes that support your nutrition goals. Here’s one great option for a veggie-ful, zesty soup to warm you up on cold days, from Atkins.com/Recipes.

Roasted Red Pepper Soup

Total Time: 25 Minutes

Ingredients:

1 small onion
12 ounces roasted bell peppers
2 medium stalks celery
2 cloves garlic
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
2 (14.5-ounce) cans chicken broth, bouillon or consommé
7 fluid ounces water
2/3 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

Directions:

Heat oil in medium saucepan over medium heat.
Dice celery and white onion. Mince garlic and add all three to pan, cook and stir occasionally about 8 minutes or until softened.
Add diced roasted peppers, water and broth. Bring to boil; lower heat and simmer 5 minutes.
Puree soup in batches in blender or food processor until smooth.
Return soup to saucepan; stir in cream. Heat gently.
Add salt and pepper to taste. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese before serving. Optional: Serve with drizzle of sour cream.
Makes 6 servings.

Ready to celebrate your small wins?

The #AtkinsSmallWins campaign challenges fans across the country to share one of their own small wins on Instagram, following and tagging @AtkinsNutritionals and using hashtags #AtkinsSmallWins and #Sweepstakes for a chance to win a prize pack. The contest runs through Sunday, Nov. 14, at 11:59 p.m. PT. No purchase necessary. Void where prohibited. Open to U.S. residents (except Alaska and Hawaii) 21 or older. For five weeks, the program will focus on five top areas of health and wellness that contribute to your overall well-being: nutrition, financial health, mental health, home and organization, physical health and fitness.

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What can you do to protect your vision?

2021-10-25T08:01:00

(BPT) – You could probably predict the outcome of a study about whether people who don’t have vision insurance get adequate — or any — vision care. Unsurprisingly, less than half of Americans who lack health insurance get eye care services, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Yet you might be surprised to learn you can buy vision insurance regardless of whether you have private or public health insurance, get insurance through your employer or buy it on your own, or even if you have none at all. And you can purchase it for roughly the cost of one large coffee-shop beverage per week.

From injuries to age-related vision changes, chances are you or a family member will need eye care at some point. In fact, the CDC predicts within the next four years, half of all Americans will have eye diseases and associated vision loss as the population grows older. “People must have access to eye care services and then actually use the services if their eye conditions are to be detected and treated,” the CDC says. “However, not all U.S. residents have sufficient access to these services.”

Vision insurance can be a cost-effective way to help gain affordable access to vision care, protect your eye health, and reduce the cost of necessities like exams, glasses and contact lenses. Here are some eye-opening facts about vision insurance:

  • Some employers offer vision coverage as a voluntary benefit — that is, an extra benefit that you can pay for. When you get vision coverage through an employer, your company may cover all, a portion of or none of the premium. If your employer doesn’t offer vision insurance, you can purchase it on your own for an affordable cost. For example, VSP Individual Vision Plans offers vision coverage plans as low as $13 per month, depending on your state.
  • A vision benefits plan is not the same as a vision discount plan, although both can be part of a vision insurance plan. A benefits package works much like your health insurance; you may have a co-pay at the time of service with the insurance plan paying some or all of the balance directly to the provider, whom you will chose from an approved network. With a discount plan, you pay for all services but at a lower price that the plan administrators have negotiated with care providers in their network.
  • Vision insurance can save your eyesight and your wallet. Routine eye care can catch problems early, when they are most treatable, and proper treatment can prevent an existing problem from becoming worse or even unmanageable. What’s more, vision insurance can lower the cost of vision care significantly; VSP publicizes that plan-holders typically save an average of $455 a year on eye exams, glasses, contacts and other types of eye care.

According to the CDC, vision disability is one of the top 10 disabilities among adults, and one of the most common disabling conditions among children. Vision problems are also among the most detectable, preventable and treatable conditions, yet only half the estimated 61 million American adults at high risk for serious vision problems saw an eye doctor in the past year, the CDC says.

Having insurance is one of the most critical predictors that you’ll get the health care you need, including vision care. According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, people who lack insurance are more than twice as likely to delay or skip needed care.

To learn more about vision insurance and find an affordable vision plan that’s right for you, visit www.vspdirect.com.

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The Importance of Simultaneous Testing of COVID-19 and Flu [Infographic]

2021-10-25T08:01:00

(BPT) – Flu season is fast approaching even as COVID-19 continues to spread, potentially leading to confusion surrounding symptoms and testing protocols, and mass disruptions in schools, businesses, and transportation. In the northern hemisphere, influenza and respiratory syncytial viruses are common in the autumn and winter months and have overlapping symptoms with SARS-CoV-2. Multiplex PCR technology is an essential component to help manage the upcoming flu season. It’s vitally important to know the similarities and differences between these respiratory viruses, and to get tested regularly to help protect yourself and others.

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Beyond calcium: Tips for building strong and healthy bones

2021-10-25T16:08:18

(BPT) – Experts have found better alternatives to increasing bone density than calcium alone.

Approximately half of all adults aged 50 and older are at risk of breaking a bone, according to the National Osteoporosis Foundation.

Even seemingly safe activities like exercising and driving can become troublesome for individuals with osteoporosis. Debilitating fractures and long-term issues are frequent outcomes of weak and brittle bones.

In fact, 50% of people who break their hips never fully heal, 10% end up in nursing homes, and 33% die within a year of their initial fracture, according to an article at nursinghomeabusecenter.com.

Rheumatologist and internist Dr. Adam Kreitenberg explains, “Many people don’t realize they have bone density issues until they experience a fall or fracture. The goal is to build strong and healthy bones before it’s too late.”

Calcium’s benefits, such as gaining bone mass and increasing bone density, have been well-documented for many years. So, why are recent studies, according to the CDC, revealing an increase in osteoporosis in the United States, particularly among women?

According to a recent clinical study published in The Journal of Orthopaedic Science, calcium needs to combine with vitamin D3 and other key nutrients to support bone density.

However, not just any calcium will do; a highly absorbable form of calcium, such as calcium hydroxyapatite, is recommended since it is bioidentical to the calcium already found in your body.

When calcium hydroxyapatite is combined with vitamin D3, studies show that bone density is increased and the rate of bone loss is reduced. It may also aid in the prevention of osteoporosis, according to an article at NIH.gov.

Dr. Hogne Vik, M.D., scientist and chief medical officer of NattoPharma, has also been working on cutting-edge research surrounding the role of vitamin K2 in helping support bone health.

Vik explains, “Countless clinical studies are showing that our bodies require the presence of vitamin K2 to absorb calcium properly. That’s because vitamin K2 is the only compound that can direct calcium to the appropriate places: your bones and teeth.”

Nattopharma created a patented and effective version of MK-7, MenaQ7 — the only clinically studied form of vitamin K2 available on the market that delivers optimal bone health support.

In one study, healthy postmenopausal women took a daily 180mcg dose of MenaQ7 over a 3-year period. Participants experienced a significant improvement in bone mineral content and density. Their rate of bone degradation slowed by about 50%.

“In my rheumatology practice, I combine complementary treatments, such as diet and weight-bearing exercises with an advanced medicinal treatment, OsteoMD,” Kreitenberg explains. “This is a powerful bone support therapy based on emerging clinical data, and my patients are already noticing the difference it is making in their day-to-day lives.”

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Flu shot recommended for people 65 and older

2021-10-25T10:29:00

(BPT) – As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends people 65 years and older get their flu shot this year, in addition to their currently recommended COVID-19 vaccines. Health experts across the country urge everyone 6 months and older to get an annual flu vaccine, but for those at higher risk of serious flu complications, including people 65 years and older, getting a flu shot is especially important.

While it is not possible to predict what will happen this season, CDC is preparing for an epidemic of flu this fall and winter as grandchildren are back in school and families begin traveling and socializing once again. The agency is concerned about what this could mean for people 65 years and older.

People 65 and older bear greatest burden of severe flu illness

While flu seasons vary in severity, during most seasons people 65 years and older bear the greatest burden of severe flu disease. In recent years it is estimated that between 70% and 85% of seasonal flu-related deaths occurred in people 65 years and older, and between 50% and 70% of seasonal flu-related hospitalizations occurred among people in this age group. Compared to younger adults, people 65 years and older are at higher risk of serious flu illness which is due in part to changes in immune defenses that occur with increasing age.

“Getting a flu shot is the most important thing people 65 years and older can do to protect themselves and their loved ones from flu,” Dr. David Shay, a medical officer with CDC’s Influenza Division, said. “Flu vaccination can prevent flu and its potentially serious complications and has been shown in several studies to reduce severity of illness in people who got vaccinated but still get sick.”

Now is the time to get your flu shot

October is a good time for people 65 years and older to be vaccinated, but vaccination during November and later is still recommended because flu most commonly peaks in February and significant activity can continue into May. Although people in this age group may not respond as well to vaccination as younger people, studies have consistently found that flu vaccination has many benefits for people in this age group and has been effective in reducing the risk of flu-related medical visits and hospitalizations.

People 65 years and older should get a flu shot and not a nasal spray vaccine. There are regular flu shots approved for use in people 65 years and older, and two vaccines designed specifically, and only, for use among people in this age group. This includes the high-dose flu vaccine (brand name Fluzone High-Dose) and the adjuvanted flu vaccine (brand name Fluad Quadrivalent). Both of these vaccines are designed to create a stronger immune response in people 65 years and older. There also is some evidence to suggest the recombinant flu vaccine (brand name Flublok Quadrivalent) might also create a stronger immune response in people in this age group. No one of these flu shots is recommended over another; the most important thing is for everyone to get a flu vaccine every year. If you have questions about which vaccine is best for you, talk with your doctor or another health care professional.

A flu shot protects against multiple flu viruses

Flu vaccines are the only vaccines designed to protect against flu and they protect against the four flu viruses that research indicates will be most common during the upcoming season. Flu vaccines for 2021-2022 were updated from last season’s vaccine to better match circulating viruses. Immunity from vaccination fully sets in after about two weeks.

“In addition to getting a flu shot, people 65 years and older should take the same everyday preventive actions CDC recommends for everyone,” Shay said. “This includes avoiding people who are sick, covering coughs, and washing hands often.”

Additional information about the seriousness of flu and the benefits of flu vaccination can be found on the CDC website or call CDC at 1-800-CDC-INFO.

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Presenting: America’s Top 10 Shelter Dog Makeovers of 2021

2021-10-25T14:01:00

(BPT) – Millions of dogs enter shelters each year. And while rescue organizations work tirelessly, the sad truth is that fewer than half of these dogs are getting the grooming they need due to a lack of resources. The effects of neglect, or a life on the street, can often overshadow the beauty that lives inside these dogs, and too often they are overlooked by adoptive families. That’s why pet industry leaders Wahl and Greater Good Charities have partnered once again for their 10th annual Dirty Dogs Contest (dirtydogscontest.com). They donated grooming supplies, and in turn, rescues and shelters shared remarkable Before & After makeover photos — including the Top 10 Shelter Dog Makeovers of 2021. Vote for your favorite pup and help the organization affiliated with the dog win $10,000.

Elmer and two of his pals were brought to a shelter by a landlord whose tenants moved out and left the three senior dogs alone in their crates. These three musketeers were in terrible shape; and the vet helping Elmer stated she had never seen matting as severe as his. Fortunately, with a lot of TLC, Elmer transformed into a handsome gentleman and now lives in the home of his dreams.

Easton must have seen a lot of hardship in his 12 long years. He was rescued from a high kill shelter that was going to euthanize him because he was unable to walk due to neglected matting. From there, his story took a dramatic turn when a good grooming revealed that ‘he’ was actually a ‘she’. Now with a new haircut, and a new identity, Easton is living her best life.

Elise (aka the Muppet) was one of three dogs rescued from a woman who had dementia and could no longer properly care for them. Elise had severe matting which made her four paws look like eight. Her nails were over an inch long with additional nails undergrown back into her pads. Elise, now lovingly referred to as the Muppet, received a manicure and some proper pampering to become the pretty girl she is today.

Cheyenne was brought to the shelter as a scared and clearly neglected stray. Her coat was so matted she had difficulty going to the bathroom, which caused her extreme discomfort. After a two-hour grooming session, however, a sweet and happy Mini Schnauzer was revealed. Cheyenne will soon be available for adoption and is thrilled to finally find a forever home.

Olivia’s journey to recovery began on Father’s Day when she was found drinking from a gutter in a very busy neighborhood. A good Samaritan alerted a shelter to her whereabouts and she was brought in immediately. There it was discovered that Olivia suffered from severe mange. After months of care and healing, she transformed into a gorgeous girl.

Oliver was rescued after suffering from severe neglect. He was in such bad shape his poor little eyes were matted open. After a proper grooming, things started looking up for Oliver, and he was placed with a loving family who proclaims him “the sweetest dog alive!” Oliver is finally living his best life.

Sharon and Debbie were found as strays huddled in a culvert. Their rescuers were shocked by what they discovered on the sweet puppies. What appeared to be dirt was actually thousands of tiny fleas, leaving them uncomfortable and at-risk. After three long baths, the sisters were finally clean and ready to cuddle.

Godiva was found in deplorable condition. Her mats were so severe, her rescuers worried about injuries under all that fur. Groomers began the slow, tedious process of cutting out the mats. After hours of grooming, and two pounds of extra fur, a little girl emerged that’s as sweet as her name.

Woodrow was brought into the shelter as a stray. Living in the harsh outside conditions took an extreme toll on Woodrow. The matting in his fur was so severe he could barely move, his long nails curled around his paws twice, and he was left blind from neglect. After an extensive and tedious grooming, using every tool in the chest, a cute little man slowly emerged. Woodrow soon found a new family and is now weathering kisses rather than storms.

Mallory arrived at the shelter looking very scruffy and unwell. Her back was completely raw from scratching, she limped from an unknown injury and matted fur completely covered her eyes. After treating her injuries, Mallory was treated to a nice bath and haircut, transforming her into a real catch. Mallory is now happily adopted and loving her new home.

For more information on Wahl’s complete line of grooming products, including tips on how to pamper your own pooch, visit WahlUSA.com, or follow @WahlPets on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

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How to elevate your PC gaming setup

2021-10-25T08:01:00

(BPT) – When it comes to serious gaming, immersion is the goal. You want to achieve a multi-sensory experience that pulls you into a game. Today’s modern consoles are a huge step forward in creating an immersive gaming experience, but to really elevate your PC gaming further, you need the best technology to bring your world to life.

Start with the basics

Invest in a gaming table to build out your setup. Unlike a standard desk, a gaming table is oriented to facilitate comfort and gaming for lengthy sessions. A good gaming table will also help you reduce clutter while safely housing all your tech, including your PC, mouse, keyboard, monitor, speakers and more.

Next, any good gaming rig will have a high-quality chair that is comfortable and supportive. Look for ergonomic options that support your back and posture so you can feel confident you’ll be ache-free after hours of gaming. Plus, chairs designed for gaming are typically sleek and come in many eye-catching colors and designs to enhance the aesthetic of your setup.

Make it multisensory

If you’re striving for an immersive gaming experience, you must make updates that appeal to the senses of sight and sound. Start with a monitor targeted toward gamers so you can enjoy smooth and detailed visuals that bring the game to life. Then crank your experience up with gaming speakers that make you feel like you’ve been transported to another world.

Boasting proprietary 3D Gaming Sound technology, the LG UltraGear GP9 Gaming Speaker features an HRTF (head-related transfer function) algorithm to tailor a game’s audio according to its genre. This means you will experience stunningly detailed virtual surround sound complete with a realistic sense of space, position and directionality, all without a cumbersome headset.

As if rich, customizable sound isn’t enough, its functionality is sure to impress. The GP9 is a one-of-a-kind “voice chat” gaming speaker that allows you to communicate with other players without the need for separate headsets or microphones. The built-in mics utilize LG’s unique echo-cancellation algorithm that can distinguish a user’s voice from game sounds and background noises. Try pairing the speaker with one of LG UltraGear’s best-in-class gaming monitors and you’ll be on your A-game at all times.

Explore new titles

The age of new high-end gaming consoles has inspired a host of new immersive games worthy of exploring. One met with an overwhelmingly positive response by the gaming community and mainstream media is Kena: Bridge of Spirits. The immersive storytelling and high-quality animation, often compared to what can only be seen at the movies, touched players’ hearts and garnered international acclaim.

This story-driven action adventure features endearing characters, fascinating exploration and fast-paced combat. As Kena, players will rebuild the foundation of a community that is suffering at the hands of a corrupt leader. Players find and grow a team of charming and adorable spirit companions called the Rot, enhancing their abilities and creating new ways to manipulate the environment.

Restore the environment and battle ancient enemies to unravel the mysteries of the forgotten village. This single player, 3D game is a feast for the eyes with lush, stylized environments where your combat and puzzle-solving skills are put to the test. Learn more at EmberLab.com.

With the best tech and awesome new games, you’ll be ready for an immersive gaming experience sure to impress. Your virtual reality will be more authentic than you could have ever imagined.

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Last-Minute Halloween Costumes for Little Ones

2021-10-25T08:01:00

(BPT) – Spooky season is here and it’s time for parents to pick the cutest costume for their little ones.

Carter’s, the most trusted brand in baby and children’s apparel, has Halloween covered with their costume assortment and Bold Basics line that can be mixed and matched to create the best do-it-yourself costume on the block. Offering a variety of styles at an incredible value, Carter’s will have your little ones looking cute and feeling comfortable from head to toe while they’re trick-or-treating or celebrating at home.

Parents can pick a two-piece costume or choose to put their DIY skills to the test by mixing and matching fun pieces from Carter’s Bold Basics collection.

Here are some cute and spooky Halloween costume ideas for your little one:

Animal Costumes

These animal-inspired costumes will keep your little ones comfortable while they trick-or-treat or spend time celebrating at home. Carter’s offers a range of sizes for each costume and each top piece has a zip-front design for no-fuss dressing.

Little Dragon Costume – Little Ladybug Costume – Little Shark Costume

DIY Costumes with Carter’s Bold Basics

Inspired by the Carter’s Bold Basics line, DIY content creator Tatertots & Jello created a variety of fruit-themed costumes using styles in various colors. These pieces allow for an easy Halloween DIY project that the entire family can join in on! Using a mix of leggings, skirts and T-shirts, parents can create boo-worthy costumes for their little ones.

Leggings – Long-Sleeve Jersey Tee – Striped Tie-Front Tee

Halloween Apparel

Keep your little ones in the Halloween spirit while staying festive and warm with Carter’s Halloween apparel for babies and toddlers.

2-Piece Halloween Bodysuit Pant Set – Halloween Cat Tutu Bodysuit – 2-Pack Halloween Booties

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5 ways to enjoy the holidays without breaking your budget

2021-10-25T07:01:00

(BPT) – A new survey reveals that Americans say the holidays will give them something positive to look forward to, after many people had to curtail last year’s holiday celebrations due to the pandemic. In the new 2021 Coinstar Holiday Survey, respondents said that while gift buying may go down this year (one-third plan to buy fewer gifts), people overall are looking for more activities that bring them holiday joy — as they still manage their budgets.

Here are tips to help boost your holiday spirit, without breaking the bank.

1. Embrace regifting

If you’ve ever thought about regifting a present to someone who might actually enjoy it, you’re not alone. According to the survey, more than one-fourth (28%) said they’re likely to regift something this holiday season.

There’s nothing wrong with regifting, and here’s why:

  • It saves you money
  • Reusing is good for the environment
  • Your closet gets a little less cluttered
  • You may be giving the absolute perfect gift to someone else

Be sure to regift with care, and not give the gift back to the same person who gave it to you!

2. Use spare change to stretch your budget

When finances are tight, you may be surprised to learn that you have more spare change lying around than you think! Check your purse, couch cushions, car or change jar for loose change. Survey respondents estimate they have approximately $123 in spare change at home, and over half (52%) said they are likely to cash in or use their spare change this holiday season. This newfound cash can be used for buying gifts, decorations or donating to others.

It’s easy to cash in your spare change at a Coinstar kiosk in your local supermarket. At the kiosk, you can convert your spare change to cash, a no-fee eGift card — or even donate to charity, which makes it perfect for boosting the spirit of giving.

3. Deck the halls with holiday spirit

Nothing brings back your childhood sense of holiday wonder and magic better than beautiful colored lights and holiday decorations, whether at your own home or around your neighborhood. Over 90% of the people surveyed plan to decorate their homes this season, and three out of four say they will start or increase their tradition of driving around to enjoy decorations and lights nearby — a fun and no-cost activity to delight your whole family.

4. Bake a little joy for the holidays

Baking is one of the most fun and inexpensive ways to spend time with your family, as well as being a great way to create giftable treats. In the survey, 80% of Americans said they will start or increase their home baking this holiday season. Find festive tins, jars or holiday-themed plates to load up with goodies, wrap in foil, then stick on a colorful ribbon and voila! A tasty gift anyone would love to receive.

Baking not your strong suit? No worries. You can find pre-made refrigerated or frozen cookie dough in most stores, so you can still have the fun — and delicious aroma — of homemade cookies without all the fuss and muss.

5. Bring joy to others by giving

Giving to others can bring unexpected holiday joy. After more than a year of challenges, nearly two-thirds of Americans (61%) say they’ll start or increase their donations of money or volunteering time to charity this holiday season.

Another way to feel the warm glow of giving to others is by tipping service providers who help you throughout the year, from your childcare provider to your mail carrier. Well over half (57%) of Americans say they tip service providers during the holidays.

It doesn’t take a lot of cash to make the season bright. Revisit the traditions you have with friends and family and perhaps create a few new ones to make this year memorable. Approaching the holiday with an attitude of creativity and gratitude will go a long way toward capturing the joy of the holiday season.