Month: February 2020

2020-02-14T14:54:16

(BPT) – Whether hosting family and friends for your first or fifteenth time, you want your home to be ready to impress. Here are five simple ways to make sure your home is refreshed and ready for any entertaining occasion.

1. Refresh kitchen counters

Since the kitchen is where people mingle the most, don’t leave old, dirty caulk to be the focal point behind your delicious spread! Spruce up your countertop and backsplash by removing and replacing the old caulk. Consider using a caulk that’s formulated specifically to ward off dirt and mold.

2. Repair imperfections and paint on walls

It’s inevitable that scuffs and scratches will appear on walls over time. A fresh coat of paint in key areas, like the living room, bathroom and guest bedroom, will help the entire home feel clean and fresh. Be sure to first prep walls by filling holes and cracks with spackling compound for a smooth finished surface. DAP DryDex Spackling takes the guesswork out of drying time with an indicator that goes on pink and dries white so you know when it’s ready to sand and paint.

3. Clean and prep the floors

If you have the time, schedule a carpet cleaning before your guests are scheduled to arrive. And, consider applying a fast-drying polish to hardwood floors for a squeaky-clean finish. It’s also a good idea to keep a multi-surface vacuum in an easy-to-access location for quick spot cleans and pick-ups.

4. Salvage broken décor

Don’t fret when you notice a décor item has cracked or broken. Instead, grab a strong, fast-setting glue to make simple, long-lasting repairs before guests arrive. DAP RapidFuse All Purpose Adhesive sets in 30 seconds and is two times more durable than other super glues — there’s even a plastic primer available that will help with hard-to-fix plastic décor.

5. Update decorative accessories

Small updates like adding plants, rugs and throws to your space are low-cost but high impact. Lighting is another quick change that can really help warm a space. Consider swapping out the shades on your lamps or installing updated light fixtures for an entirely new look, but for a fraction of the cost.

With these easy tips, your home will feel fresh and welcoming year-round.

2020-02-13T14:01:00

(BPT) – When you’re in your 20s, you feel the best is yet to come. I was focused on graduating from college and landing my first full-time job, and I didn’t think I’d be sidelined with an injury and a diagnosis of depression.

It all began when I was 18 and entered one of the most difficult relationships of my life. It’s not what you think though. That’s when I started my relationship with softball. I played seven days a week, competed at the highest level, and traveled to different states to play in tournaments. But, at 22 years old, I suffered a hip injury that required surgery.

Throughout the process leading up to my surgery, I kept avoiding how I felt emotionally, and disregarded my mental state. I figured I would feel better — physically and emotionally — after my surgery, but I didn’t. I knew I had to talk to my doctor about how I was feeling and that’s when I was diagnosed with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), also known as depression.

I was unhappy and all I wanted to do was go to bed and sleep. But my depression was complicated and not only sadness. My new daily routine became working eight to five, going home, crawling in bed, watching TV and sleeping. I lost interest in activities I used to enjoy, didn’t want to go out with friends, and often felt fatigued. I isolated myself — not answering texts or calls and shutting myself off from those around me.

Functioning at work was probably the most difficult, knowing how empty and depressed I felt. I had trouble concentrating, and no one knew because I always put a smile on my face. When in reality, all I really wanted to do was break down and cry or curl up in a ball.

Since my diagnosis eight years ago, I learned that there are many different treatment plans, including talk therapy and/or medications such as antidepressants. I also learned that antidepressants work differently for each patient and they may have side effects.

My doctor made me aware of the serious side effects of antidepressants as well as some of the most common side effects such as nausea, drowsiness, dry mouth, dizziness, insomnia and headache. Some medications may also cause weight gain. Because each patient experiences side effects differently, I can only speak to what happened to me. While I was on an antidepressant, I learned from my doctor that treatment-emergent sexual dysfunction, or TESD, is particularly common with certain antidepressants, specifically serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) and some other commonly prescribed antidepressants.

While it can be embarrassing to experience low libido, I want to encourage anyone experiencing side effects from their treatment plan, including TESD or another side effect, to talk to their doctor. Talking to a doctor is an important step to finding an appropriate treatment plan. A treatment plan isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach, so it’s important to have an open and honest conversation with a doctor about any concerns you may have, including symptoms and side effects associated with your treatment plan.

My journey continues every day. I still meet with my psychologist weekly and my psychiatrist monthly to have ongoing discussions about how I’m feeling. Depression is something that I’ll need to be mindful of and manage every day for the rest of my life, but I know the power of speaking up and sharing what you’re feeling with your doctor. The best advice I can give to someone experiencing depression is to never give up. Keep fighting. Don’t be afraid to be honest about what you’re experiencing because help is available.

Consider visiting LighterBlue.com to learn more about how depression is not only sadness, as well as to get tips on how to have a productive conversation with your doctor.

2020-02-13T07:01:00

(BPT) – When a child is diagnosed with cancer, the entire family is affected by the experience, especially the child’s siblings. Young children experience their brother or sister’s cancer while they are still learning to make sense of the world. Often this leaves them feeling scared, angry, anxious or sad.

According to Meredith Barnhart, a licensed clinical social worker at The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS), a global leader in the fight against cancer, “Childhood cancer has a direct impact on siblings and it’s inevitable that a cancer diagnosis will drastically change a family’s routine. Siblings need extra support when adjusting to their new normal.”

Shameeza Singh, of New York City, knows all too well the impact childhood cancer has on siblings. In June 2016, her oldest son, King, was diagnosed with high-risk acute lymphoblastic leukemia at 2 years old. He underwent nearly four years of intense daily treatment, which she describes as “extremely debilitating.” As a result of his treatment, King, now 6, developed life-altering side effects including brain swelling and neuropathy and his family has been affected in many ways.

King’s siblings, Mesiah and Faith, have experienced the impact of cancer firsthand from a very young age. At the time of his diagnosis, Mesiah was only 1 year old; the family welcomed his sister Faith two years into his treatment. Because of King’s cancer, the Singh family has had to make many adjustments to accommodate his health. “King’s immune system is compromised so formal school settings and daycare were never an option for any of my children,” says Singh. “They’re homeschooled together, so running to emergency hospital visits is something they experience together.”

In October 2019, King completed chemotherapy, but continues to battle the chronic side effects of his treatment. Mesiah and Faith still attend regular doctor appointments with him and although there’s still a long road ahead, the Singh family lives in faith that King’s cancer won’t return.

“King is a hero to all of us and I’m so amazed by how much he continues to inspire his brother and sister,” says Singh. “It’s also heartwarming to see my children support their big brother the best way they know how. We appreciate all the little things and cherish our family moments together.”

Barnhart leads LLS’s Information Resource Center, a team of social workers, nurses and health educators who provide blood cancer patients and caregivers with free personalized information and support tailored to their specific diagnosis and needs. Here’s some ways Barnhart says parents can help their children cope with a sibling’s cancer:

• Create an open and honest dialog. Children are very savvy and will come to their own conclusions if they think they’re not being told the truth about their sibling’s diagnosis and treatment. If possible, introduce siblings to the treatment team to help them develop a better understanding of what their brother or sister is going through.

• Arrange for alone time. While this might be difficult to do in the midst of dealing with cancer, it’s very important for parents to set aside time for a cancer patient’s siblings. Even if it’s just a short amount of time, it’s something that well siblings can count on and look forward to.

• Encourage him/her to be helpful. When possible, involve siblings in the treatment and arrange for them to visit the hospital or clinic. They can feel helpful just by spending time with their brother or sister.

• Identify a safe person for children to talk to. The parents of a child with cancer are consumed with emotion and lots of time is likely spent with doctors and at treatment. Hospital and school social workers and psychologists may be able to provide information about support programs for siblings of children with cancer. Parents should ask the school for a hall pass so that the children are able to leave class to talk to that person when needed.

• Provide consistent, fair discipline to all children. Even though it may be more difficult than ever, it’s critical that parents try and be as consistent as possible, even when it comes to discipline.

Singh says these strategies have helped her family navigate the complicated and unpredictable childhood cancer journey. She is grateful for the support she received from LLS throughout King’s road to survivorship and hopes more organizations will offer much needed resources and support for siblings dealing with childhood cancer.

LLS recently launched The LLS Children’s Initiative, a $100 million comprehensive attack on children’s cancer from every angle, from new research investment to advance novel therapies and bolster clinical trials, to enhanced services and support for children and their families, to renewed policy efforts.

“Our family and LLS share a common goal — to end cancer,” says Singh.

Today, King, an aspiring model, has become an asset to his community in many ways and the entire Singh family spends much of their time advocating for patients and families in similar situations and spreading awareness about childhood cancer.

2020-02-12T15:13:00

(BPT) – Each year, more than 2,500 dogs convene in New York City for what will likely be the biggest moment of their careers: The Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show.

Backstage, handlers work meticulously to make their dogs look and feel their best — a bath, a blowout and for many, a bowl of Purina Pro Plan. Then, for the lucky 203 dogs who won their breed competition, the lights go down in Madison Square Garden and it’s show time.

In the end, only one can win — and this year “Best in Show” went to Siba the Standard Poodle. Here are five things to know about her.

This Year’s Champ Hails from the North East

While she goes by Siba, the 3-year-old’s full name is GCHP CH Stone Run Afternoon Tea. After winning “Best in Show” at Westminster, her polished pewter trophy will reside in Northampton, PA, where she lives with her handler, Chrystal Clas, who has been showing dogs for most of her life.

Siba is the Fifth Standard Poodle to Win Westminster

To win Westminster’s iconic purple-and-gold rosette for “Best in Show” Siba first had to win her Breed, followed by her Group (Non-Sporting). Her win, the first for a Standard Poodle since 1991, means she was judged as the dog closest to its written breed standard, which defines perfection per breed.

Fueled By Advanced Nutrition

While she loves chicken as a snack, a look inside Siba’s bowl reveals Purina Pro Plan SPORT 30/20 formula. Pro Plan is considered a leader in advanced nutrition — 13 of the last 14 “Best in Show” winners were Pro Plan-fed.*

*The handler or owners of these champions may have received Purina Pro Plan dog food as Purina ambassadors.

A Champion in the Ring — a Pet at Home

While Siba is a champion in the ring, she’s still just a dog when she’s not competing. Her favorite activities include lounging at home on her dad’s leather recliner (which she has commandeered) and playing with her 2-year-old human brother.

A Crowning Achievement

Westminster is considered the pinnacle of a dog’s show career, and while Siba has won 57 “Best in Show” titles, her win at Westminster will forever serve as her crowning achievement. While eligible to compete next year, Siba is headed into retirement, hopefully to become a mom.

2020-02-12T16:31:32

(BPT) – Are you following a gluten-free, keto, paleo, vegetarian, Whole 30 or other special diet? The problem with sticking to a diet is that it can feel restricting, because you’re only allowed to eat certain foods, and that can get boring fast.

Registered Dietitian and Nutritionist Dawn Jackson Blatner has a few expert tips to help you succeed with any diet routine:

• Keep it convenient. Focus on foods that are easy to prepare.
• Keep it fun. Focus on foods that you actually enjoy eating.
• Keep it varied. Focus on foods that are versatile and can be used lots of ways.

There’s one ingredient that food lovers can count on while dieting that is easy to make, versatile and delicious: eggs. Eggs are packed with protein and essential vitamins and nutrients, perfect to keep dieters energized and feeling full throughout the day. For a quick meal that fits most specialty diet plans and can be eaten any time of day, try scrambling peppers, mushrooms and eggs in a pan and top with fresh avocado.

When buying ingredients at the grocery store, remember that not all eggs are created equal. Look for Eggland’s Best eggs with the bright red EB stamp on each egg, as they have superior nutrition compared to ordinary eggs. These eggs provide 10 times more vitamin E than ordinary eggs, which is an important nutrient for maintaining the immune system. Plus, they have 25% less saturated fat, more than double the omega-3s and vitamin B12 and six times more vitamin D.

Whether hard-boiled, poached, scrambled or mixed into a favorite recipe, Eggland’s Best eggs are easy to use in dishes and customize to your tastes. If you’re looking for recipe inspiration, try this tasty Garden Frittata recipe:

Garden Frittata

Fresh vegetables mixed with eggs and cheese make for the perfect meal. Note: This recipe adheres to the rules of many specialty diets, including vegetarian, keto and gluten-free.

Ingredients:

4 Eggland’s Best Eggs (large), beaten
2 tablespoons butter
1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh garlic
1/2 cup chopped onion
1 cup chopped fresh spinach
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil leaves
1/3 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup chopped cherry tomatoes

Directions:

Melt butter in 10-inch skillet until sizzling; add garlic and onions.
Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, 4-5 minutes or until onions are translucent.
Add spinach, saute 2-3 minutes or until spinach is wilted.
Whisk eggs and salt together in bowl.
Add eggs to vegetable mixture in pan; sprinkle with basil.
Cover; continue cooking 4-6 minutes or until center is almost set.
Sprinkle with cheese. Cover; remove from heat. Let stand 2-3 minutes or until cheese is melted.
Cut into wedges. Garnish with chopped tomatoes.

For more nutritious recipes, visit www.egglandsbest.com.

2020-02-12T10:01:00

(BPT) – With the latest flagship smartphones like the iPhone 11 and Samsung Galaxy S10 carrying price tags near $1,000, upgrading to a premium phone may seem out of reach to someone on a limited budget.

But it doesn’t have to be. The pace of smartphone innovation has slowed from the breakneck speed of a few years back. In fact, the most recent tweaks to brand-new models have tended to be more about refining existing features than rolling out indispensable new technology.

What that means is that slightly older models — the flagships of two or even three years ago — can offer a great deal for users looking for an upgrade that won’t break the bank.

Older versions priced to sell

Think of buying a smartphone the way you would buying a car. Dealers always put the latest models, with the biggest price tag, out front. But look around the lot and you’ll find plenty of perfectly good choices from recent model years that have gone unsold — and that the dealer needs to move.

Smartphone manufacturers are no different than auto makers. Once they’ve released their latest flagship devices, usually in the fall, prices on previous flagships are slashed — some by hundreds of dollars — to clear out the backlog of inventory. These phones are in perfect condition, have near state-of-the-art features, and manufacturers still support them with critical operating system upgrades. They’re just not “the newest model” anymore.

Great features, great prices

Here are some recent examples. When Apple released the iPhone 11 series last September, the price of its 2017 flagship iPhone 8 fell to less than $500 — and the iPhone 7 from just one year earlier dropped to nearly half that.

Both models still offer terrific performance, top-notch cameras, and all the perks of Apple’s iOS ecosystem. Apple even supports these older models with as many as five or six operating system updates, meaning they will still be running with the latest performance and security upgrades for upwards of four years.

For Android users, the support window is slightly less, but there are still great deals to be found. Samsung officially supports its releases for three years with monthly security updates, then a single year of quarterly updates. Currently, 2018’s Samsung Galaxy S9, with features like an infinity-edge display, 12 MP camera, and wireless charging can be had for just over $500 — several hundred dollars less than its marketplace successor, the Galaxy S10.

More ways to save

Those good deals can get even better depending on the cellular provider you choose. After all, if you’re going to be upgrading your phone, why not shop for the best wireless bargain at the same time?

For example, Consumer Cellular earns consistently great reviews for its low prices and customer service. In addition, it offers a unique way to make phone upgrades even more affordable, with a program called EasyPay financing. On select devices, customers can make a small down payment — often as little as $10 — then pay the remaining balance in installments added to their wireless bill. These monthly payments are as low as $5, with 0% interest.

The bottom line is, you don’t have to spend a fortune to enjoy a premium smartphone. If you’re willing to sacrifice just a few bells and whistles, you can save hundreds of dollars and still experience very nearly the best that the brilliant minds at Apple, Samsung, Google, and other modern manufacturers have to offer.

2020-02-12T06:01:00

(BPT) – As the saying goes, “breakfast is the most important meal of the day,” and the month of February is National Hot Breakfast Month, a month-long celebration dedicated to elevating the importance of a hot breakfast. Breakfast is especially important for our K-12 students, and has key benefits in supporting their learning, information retention and energy to keep them focused during the school day. Yet, a breakfast filled with sugar and fats won’t do — a breakfast packed with lean protein and fiber is key to our students starting the day and reaping the benefits that breakfast has to offer. The below infographic lays out the key benefits of student breakfast in honor of National Hot Breakfast Month.