Tips and resources to avoid caregiver burnout

2020-05-08T13:59:00

(BPT) – Since the COVID-19 outbreak, restrictions in daily activities and social interactions have caused a major shift in caregiving roles and responsibilities. Many people have found themselves acting as a full-time caregiver for the first time. Parents and guardians are teaching lessons at home for school-age children. Adults with aging parents or relatives need support with routine activities unlike ever before. Those living with someone who has a disability are filling in to ensure health and well-being are not compromised while in-home care is not an option.

Being a caregiver is both rewarding and demanding. Because it requires considerable patience, energy and empathy, it is easy to become overwhelmed and forget about self-care. This is especially true for caregivers of people with disabilities. The National Alliance for Caregiving reports approximately 39.8 million caregivers provide care to adults (aged 18+) with a disability or illness. According to the Elizabeth Dole Foundation, 5.5 million are caring for U.S. military veterans, 20% of whom have paralysis or spinal cord injury.

Paralyzed Veterans of America, a service organization that advocates for veterans who have experienced a spinal cord injury or disease such as MS or ALS, has developed a webpage dedicated to providing resources for coping with COVID-19, pva.org/covid-19, including tips for caregivers to avoid burnout.

“If you are experiencing undue stress, or if you notice that a loved one, friend or associate is overly anxious, stressed or worried, it’s important to acknowledge it and take appropriate steps to improve health,” said Katelyn Johnson, RN associate director of medical services of PVA.

Sheltering in place helps stop the spread of the coronavirus, but lack of social engagement and outside routines can lead to feelings of helplessness, isolation and loneliness. This applies to caregivers too, who now have fewer options to take breaks from their responsibilities. Naturally, this can lead to an increase in stress, particularly for those who are new to caregiving.

Since your stress levels may be higher during this time, it is important to be aware of signs of burnout such as:

  • Feeling emotionally or physically exhausted
  • Struggling to cope
  • Loss of interest in activities previously enjoyed
  • Feeling blue, irritable, listless, worried or sad
  • Changes in appetite, weight or both
  • Changes in sleep
  • Getting sick more often
  • Having headaches or body aches often
  • Feeling alone, isolated or deserted by others

These are all natural, valid feelings and may be more prevalent during the current times. But, there are steps you can take for yourself as you care for others:

  • Be intentional with how you’re spending your time. Structure your day to maximize positive activities and set goals that are achievable.
  • Limit time viewing reports on TV and social media. Constantly hearing often sensationalized reports isn’t helpful and can be very upsetting.
  • Prioritize your health. Get plenty of sleep. Eat a nutritious diet. Stay well hydrated. Exercise every day.
  • Mindfulness and meditation are good methods to alleviate stress.
  • Discuss your concerns with people you trust to give you good advice.

You can also try spending a little time outdoors each day. Even if just for a few minutes, there are many benefits to being outside.

Keep your mind occupied by working on free coursework, listening to audiobooks, watching virtual concerts and plays, touring museums online, or calling or writing friends and loved ones. There are many online videos and apps with meditation or mindfulness exercises that can help relieve stress.

If you find yourself or someone you know struggling with increased anxiety, depression or other psychological symptoms, there are a number of resources available at pva.org/covid-19. The page includes links and phone numbers for mental health professionals, peer-to-peer support and self-help strategies.

PVA is committed to the health and well-being of all caregivers, veterans and people with disabilities. Visit pva.org to learn more.


Help children living in poverty without leaving home

2020-05-08T08:01:00

(BPT) – While much of daily life is paused right now, kindness and giving are not. In fact, they’re needed now more than ever.

Red Nose Day — the annual fundraising campaign to end child poverty — is back at Walgreens, but this year it looks a bit different. Due to the need for social distancing and avoiding face touching, Walgreens is bringing the iconic Red Nose to celebrate Red Nose Day digital. The online shift offers a way for everyone to rally around the Red Nose in support of those in need during a critical time, even while remaining physically distant.

Get your digital Red Nose on

Now through May 30, you can contribute a minimum online donation of $1 at Walgreens.com/RedNoseDay to unlock the new Red Nose filter that can be shared on Instagram, Facebook and Snapchat. As parents and children enjoy more time at home, participation in Red Nose Day can help teach young ones the importance of gratitude and empathy, especially in these unprecedented times. By getting your digital Red Nose on as a family, you can use your quarantine to do good in your community. Encourage friends to join you in keeping the Red Nose spirit alive by spreading virtual joy and sharing their own selfie tagging @Walgreens #NosesOn.

Join the fight

Heading into year six of Red Nose Day in the U.S., Walgreens has raised more than $100 million to support programs keeping children safe, healthy and educated. This year, Red Nose Day is committed to directing donated funds to address the impact of COVID-19 on children living in poverty and the organizations supporting them. This effort includes getting immediate funding directly to nonprofit partners who are providing health, education, food and shelter resources to the communities most impacted by the current health pandemic.

And you can help by donating online and generating a wave of digital Red Noses across social media to spread awareness.

How it helps

100% of your donations provide funds for nutritious meals, essential medicine, clean water, education-based services and other vital aid that will help children in America and around the world.

“Red Nose Day has always been about celebrating kindness and caring, and our commitment to support children in need is more urgent than ever before,” said Richard Ashworth, president of Walgreens. “The digital Red Nose is a simple and safe way for people to provide immediate support to the children and communities that are most vulnerable to the COVID-19 health pandemic, especially at a time when physical distance makes traditional ways of helping difficult.”

Immediate relief for your local community

Grantee partner recipients of the Red Nose Day Fund include organizations that offer help to children in your neighborhood, including:

  • Boys & Girls Clubs of America, which provide safe places for children to learn and play after school
  • Children’s Health Fund, which brings essential medical services to underserved children
  • Feeding America, the hunger relief organization
  • Save the Children, which provides critical early childhood programs
  • City Year, which provides the social, emotional and academic skills to young adults in low-income households to succeed in school and life
  • Covenant House, which provides housing and support to youth facing homelessness
  • UnidosUS, which advocates for Latinos in civic engagement, education, health and housing

Global effort

Red Nose Day also supports international organizations that help children in need, such as:

  • International Rescue Committee, a global humanitarian aid organization
  • Laureus Sport for Good, which uses the power of sport to end violence, discrimination and disadvantage for young people
  • The Global Fund, a partnership to accelerate the end of AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria

Learn how you can participate at Walgreens.com/RedNoseDay and enjoy the celebration when stars unite for a world of good during the Red Nose Day TV Special, Thursday, May 21, at 8/7c on NBC.


How your family can crush cabin fever

2020-05-07T13:43:01

(BPT) – It’s not always easy to be at home with kids day after day, but with a little creativity, you can beat cabin fever. Whether you’re in your own backyard or venturing out, there are plenty of things you can do to have fun together. Make sure to choose activities that are age-appropriate and that follow your current local guidelines for social distancing.

Here are just a few things to try.

Get out in nature

Visit nearby parks or scenic areas for fresh air and exercise. Choose locations that aren’t crowded, so social distancing isn’t difficult. Bring toys for the kids, like balls, kites, hula hoops, scooters or bikes.

Play tourist

Pretend your car is a tour bus. Let Mom or Dad play tour guide first, modeling what to say (serious and/or funny). Drive by picturesque or unusual locations and make up the “tour” as you go along. Then let your kids take a turn narrating the “sights” as you drive.

Plan a celebratory parade

Have a friend or family member with a birthday, anniversary or graduation to celebrate? Plan a drive-by parade with a few other family groups in cars, complete with signs, streamers and balloons. Honk, wave and sing as you slowly pass their home.

Enjoy a treat with the family

Visit a Sonic Drive-in for a treat everyone will love. Contactless ordering and payment are easy using the Sonic app: just create and pay for your order in the app, drive to your nearby SONIC, and check in when you arrive via the app. A Sonic Carhop brings out your meal when it’s ready.

To help families during this challenging time, Sonic Wacky Pack Kids Meals are available for only $1.99 through May 31. Wacky Pack Kids Meals include choice of Jr. Burger, Corn Dog, Grilled Cheese, Crispy Tenders or Hot Dog, and they’re served with Tots, Fries or Tree Top Apple Sauce, plus Minute Maid 100% Apple Juice or 1% milk jug. Kids 3 and up receive a Kidrobot SONIC Edition Dunny toy.

Check out SonicWackyPack.com for free, downloadable activity packs that include coloring sheets, puzzles and games to entertain the kids while stuck at home.

Make washing the car an event

If there’s a touchless car wash nearby, young children will have a blast being in the car during the washing process. Turn up their favorite songs while you sit back and watch the suds and water do their work. Or you could involve the kids in washing the family car in your driveway.

Go on a scavenger hunt

Whether you’re walking or driving through the neighborhood, play “I Spy” or hunt for specific items — like a red car, a blue house, a large dog — or search for signs, rainbows or teddy bears in neighbors’ windows (a trend sweeping the nation while people are staying home).

Make the most of your own yard

You’d be amazed how much kids can appreciate their own yard, with just a little help.

  • Create an obstacle course using large cardboard boxes, hula hoops, cones or other items from your garage.
  • Make bubbles with 1 part dish soap to 3 parts water, adding a little sugar (1-2 teaspoons). Stir the mixture gently. Use pipe cleaners or cut out the bottom of plastic water bottles to create wands.
  • Use sidewalk chalk to draw hopscotch and other games, plus pictures and hopeful messages for neighbors walking by.
  • Find veggies or flowers your kids want to grow and involve them in gardening projects.
  • Dig through your garage for neglected toys and games. When did your kids last play badminton or croquet? Or make your own games, like jump rope, cornhole or horseshoes, using household items. Search online for tips on crafting homemade games.

Take a trip down memory lane

Scour your memory and ask grandparents about outdoor games from when you (or they) were children. Have grandparents explain how to play their games via phone or FaceTime. Then, video kids playing the games for the whole family to share!

Spending time together, outside or in, creates special memories your kids will treasure as they grow up — making all your efforts worthwhile.


Simple ways to beautify your outdoor space and enjoy time at home

2020-05-07T12:01:00

(BPT) – Whether it’s a quaint patio, a simple garden, a rolling expanse of land or the many possibilities in between, the backyard is the perfect place to unwind. As people spend more time at home, creating a personal outdoor sanctuary is more important than ever before.

Fortunately you don’t need a lot of time or space to create an outdoor escape you’ll enjoy for months to come. Here are some simple, affordable ideas for transforming any space into an outdoor oasis where you can release stress and reconnect to Mother Nature:

Step 1: Pull up a chair

A place to sit and relax is essential so you can fully enjoy your outdoor space. This doesn’t mean you have to order a whole new set of patio furniture though. Just one or two chairs along with a table for your favorite beverage can be an inviting start. You could even update a worn outdoor chair with a fresh coat of outdoor paint and new cushions and you’ll get a brand new look for less. Add a few outdoor accent pillows for a splash of personality and to make the space reflect the same level of comfort found indoors.

Step 2: Define the space

You can create an outdoor room by defining the space strategically. Adding a rug is a great way to give the space a more intimate feel, just make sure it’s made for outdoor use specifically to stand up to the elements. You can also create a sense of enclosure with potted plants lined in the corners or along the sides to create the visual illusion of a wall. Try your hand at container gardening and you’ll enhance your space and provide fresh vegetables and herbs for home cooking.

Step 3: Add decorative accents

To make an outdoor space feel like your own, add a few thoughtful decorations. Outdoor mirrors are trending and an affordable, upscale addition to your outdoor areas. Decor such as signs, statues and mosaics can add style to any space. To add elements of relaxation, consider a rock garden, fountain or wind chimes, which will help you escape stress while stimulating the senses.

Step 4: Enjoy daily

Create a routine to enjoy your outdoor space daily. Schedule a morning meditation, afternoon escape or evening happy hour. Raise a glass of your favorite Flat Top Hills wine and toast to living life to the fullest, even from the comfort of your backyard. Whether it’s a crisp sauvignon blanc, supple rosé, lush chardonnay, mouth-watering red blend or rich cabernet sauvignon, it’s the perfect way to enjoy your outdoor oasis.

Get started today

There’s no better time than the present to begin your backyard transformation. Start by entering the Flat Top Hills Backyard Sanctuary sweepstakes, which will award one winner with a makeover for a patio, garden or balcony. Other prizes include gift cards for meal delivery, a Flat Top Hills wine glass and wine bucket set, and mini corn hole games. Open now through May 31, enter the Flat Top Hills Backyard Sanctuary sweepstakes at www.facebook.com/FlatTopWines or woobox.com/4tfvnj. Visit www.flattopwines.com for complete details and official rules.


7 Cookie and Drink Pairings for a Virtual Mother’s Day Happier Hour [Infographic]

2020-05-07T09:17:00

(BPT) – In celebration of the moms who have been helping their children learn from home, making their kids’ lunches in between video meetings, ensuring little ones’ hands are washed and more, Milano is launching a guide that provides tips and suggested pairings of boozy — or non-boozy — beverages and Milano cookies perfect for a virtual Mother’s Day “Happier Hour” with friends and family.


Dream of summer by planning your ideal outdoor space

2020-05-07T04:01:00

(BPT) – If you’re dreaming of summer, imagining how you could be relaxing with a good book in the shade, entertaining family in your outdoor kitchen, playing with the kids in the sunshine — or just breathing in the sights and sounds of nature in your own personal oasis — here are some tips to help kickstart the planning process when the time is right for you.

Modern landscaping and hardscaping offer limitless possibilities, so you can find the right solution to complement the way you live and your own personal tastes. Whether you want a stylish lounge area for entertaining, a green-filled hideaway for connecting with nature, or a clean, minimal space for family fun and games, you can make it happen using a combination of pavers, walls, fire pits or even full outdoor kitchens.

Channel your imagination, plus a little pro advice, to help you create an outdoor space that is perfect for your family, budget and home. One great resource is Collections by Belgard, which offers outdoor designers, contractors and homeowners a way to virtually re-imagine their outdoor space by combining product offerings that pair the right textures and colors to match your home’s style — as well as your vision.

First, spend a little time with your dream, nailing down what type of outdoor space you really want. What do you most want to do in your outdoor space, and what style best expresses your vision and personality?

Cozy natural retreat

Create a space for unwinding from the week’s stresses. Could you arrange a trellis or pergola bursting with plants and flowers to set your retreat apart from the rest of the yard? You could install relaxing hammocks or a serene fountain to complete your oasis.

Then choose hardscaping elements to work hand-in-hand with your favorite natural elements. For example, Belgard’s Natural Collection provides hardscaping with the look of slates and worn stone that can set the perfect tone for your special hideaway. You can also pair this style with elements from their Heritage Collection for a classic, earthy look — or combine walls or pavers from the Natural Collection with items from the Metropolitan Collection, creating a contemporary yet soft and inviting vibe.

Relaxed entertaining center

Maybe your dream sanctuary is a cozy fire pit surrounding by lounge seating to create a comfortable outdoor living room family and guests can enjoy day or night.

Or perhaps you want to dazzle guests with your culinary skills at a complete outdoor kitchen — including fun extras like a smoker, wine cooler or brick pizza oven.

Plan the exact features you want before choosing the style, and you can make your dreams come true.

Eye-catching extension of your living space

Whatever plans you have for hardscapes, furnishings, appliances and more, consider the overall ambiance you want to create. Consider not only the natural environment, but what style best complements your home’s aesthetic.

Want a more aged, rustic appearance to suit your traditional style home? The antique, tumbled look of features from the Heritage Collection combined with elements from the Natural Collection may suit that style. Or if you want a sleeker, more contemporary look, consider opting for streamlined, modular outdoor furnishings, surrounded by pavers or walls using the smooth finishes found in the Metropolitan Collection.

Focus on family fun

Maybe your dream is to add outdoor recreation areas for you and your family. Consider making space for giant stacking blocks, life-size checkers or chess, cornhole or ring toss. How about a mini hedge maze or paver labyrinth?

Then use the existing feel of your home’s exterior as the basis for your stylistic direction. You could go for a traditional, old-world aesthetic by combining the soft edges and accent pieces from the Legacy Collection with the old-world charm of the Heritage Collection. Or you could pair aspects of the Legacy Collection with features from the more modern-looking Metropolitan Collection to add warmth to your contemporary space.

Homeowners and outdoor designers can work together to mix and match a variety of textures, colors and styles to create an outdoor space that suits any landscape — creating an extension of your home to make all your summer dreams come true.

Visit Belgard.com/summer for more design ideas and inspiration.


4 steps: Clean and prep your deck now for summer sun and relaxation

2020-05-06T07:45:00

(BPT) – As we all spend more time at home right now, it can be a great opportunity to get a head start on summer projects and begin tackling your list of home improvements, especially as we look toward warmer weather. One thing that often gets overlooked is regular deck cleanings. Since summer is the perfect time to get in the sun and enjoy the outdoors, now is the ideal time to give your deck the cleaning it needs in preparation for summer relaxation and quality family time. The deck is also a great surface for potted plants, herb baskets and increasing curb appeal.

Ready to get started on your deck cleaning? Here are some tips for making it easy and efficient from smart watering expert, Gilmour.

Make a sweeping change

Start by removing everything from your deck and thoroughly sweeping its surface, then use a screwdriver or putty knife to gently pry out any loose debris stuck between the boards. Take time for basic repairs such as sanding down any rough spots, replacing any loose boards or wobbly rails and flattening protruding nails and screws along the way.

Choose effective cleaning tools

Having the right tools that are easy to use makes the job more enjoyable and ensures you can get it done right the first time. For example, the Gilmour AquaArmor Hose uses a proprietary surface material and strong internal coils that keep its length kink-free and 50% lighter than standard hoses, making it easier to maneuver and carry. Further, spigot attachment is made nearly effortless by crush-proof couplings. The Front Control Adjustable Watering Nozzle with Swivel Connect rotates 180 degrees for ease of movement while a simple click switches flow pressure from jet to rinse. Want even more precision? The Power Jet Wand is modeled after power washers to deliver a concentrated water stream that’s 12% stronger than standard cleaning nozzles. All three tools are reinforced for durability and ergonomically designed with ultra-comfortable handles, contours and balance points.

Wash away surface grime

After sweeping and selecting your tools, use your hose and spray attachments to remove remaining dirt and debris from your deck surface. Position the nozzle or wand six to 12 inches away as you work, making sure the spray isn’t so close or powerful that it gouges the surface. Once completed, be sure to seal your deck to help protect from water damage and mold and mildew build-up.

Personalize and enjoy

Once your deck is prepped, you have a blank canvas to enjoy. From adding potted plants, chic patio furniture or pops of color, the space is yours to enjoy. Add hanging baskets and convenient herbs to your deck for a touch of beautiful greenery. Once personalized, ensure continued success by regularly watering plants and cleaning your deck with the lightweight and easy-to-maneuver AquaArmor Hose.

Find information and tips about other high-quality watering and cleaning tools to make your work easier at Gilmour.com.


Anticipating canine separation anxiety post COVID-19

2020-05-06T08:01:00

(BPT) – For almost all of us, we have been on “sit and stay” for over two months. The only person happy about this is the dog.

The question is, when we return to some normalcy, and head back to work, or to re-start life, what will be the effect on our canines? Some dogs are at higher risk for anxiety when we return to our new normal.

Dogs previously diagnosed with Canine Separation Anxiety should return to preventative measures before the owner returns to work. For dogs adopted during the “stay at home” regulations, their new owners should start leaving the dog alone for short periods of time, testing reactions. For the dog never exhibiting any tendency toward anxiety, owners should be vigilant; the events of the past two months were anxiety-producing for all of us, and that includes the canines. Fortunately, new drug-free solutions are now available to help our canine companions feel calmer.

“Research shows that more than one in seven dogs (13 million) in the U.S. suffer from separation anxiety. We expect this figure to dramatically increase once stay at home restrictions are lifted,” said Dr. Judy Korman, veterinarian at Assisi Animal Health. “What might be initially viewed as bad behavior is actually a cry for help.”

When Jen Berger first got her bulldog Eggnog, she was a joy until Jen had to leave the house. Eggnog paced constantly until she returned. Jen thought this was simply due to Eggnog’s young age, but instead of the problem improving as she grew, it actually got worse.

Symptoms of canine separation anxiety

Dogs with separation anxiety panic and exhibit behavior problems when they can’t be with their owners. Below, Dr. Korman shares the most common symptoms of separation anxiety:

Vocalizing: Barks, howls or whines when you leave or while you’re gone.

Escaping: Chews or scratches at doors or windows in an attempt to escape the home, a crate or exercise pen.

Destructiveness: Chews or scratches on household items when you’re gone.

Pacing: Constant walking in a circle or back and forth as you’re leaving or when you’re gone.

Panting: Heavy breathing as you’re leaving or after you’re gone.

Self-harm: Obsessively licks or chews paws, legs or tail when you’re gone.

Potty accidents: Urinates and/or defecates when you’re gone, even though they’re house-trained.

Solutions for separation anxiety in dogs

There are several treatment options if your dog has separation anxiety, including training techniques, medication and non-prescription therapies. Jen worked with her veterinarian and initially decided to put Eggnog on anxiety medication. Then she learned more about anxiety in dogs and a drug-free solution called Calmer Canine.

“In dogs with separation anxiety, the area of the brain responsible for processing emotions and detecting fear goes into overdrive. This area is called the amygdala,” said Dr. Korman. “The result is an imbalance of chemicals and hormones that leads to behavior changes.”

Based on technology that has been used to treat medical conditions in humans (including anxiety and mood disorders) since the 1970s and with a similar approach to what’s been used to treat pain and inflammation in more than 50,000 animals , Dr. Korman and a team of veterinarians, neurobiologists and engineers developed a safe and effective way to treat anxiety in a dog’s brain. The result is the only drug-free product invented to treat dogs diagnosed with separation anxiety.

For Eggnog, Calmer Canine was the right solution. After using the device for six weeks with two 15-minute treatments per day, her separation anxiety improved greatly. “We recently received her progress update and were thrilled to learn that Eggnog’s pacing and panting symptoms are much less and that she has been removed from her anxiety medications completely,” said Dr. Korman.

Symptoms of separation anxiety can mimic other issues, such as a medical condition or age-related behaviors. To learn if your dog might be suffering from separation anxiety, visit www.calmerk9.com, take the quiz and learn more about treatments.


4 tips: Zing up your menus with a tasty summer garnish garden

2020-05-06T07:45:00

(BPT) – As people are spending more time at home, many are learning new activities and finding simple joy in doing the things they love, such as cultivating their own gardens.

Now is the perfect time to start planning a summer garden that can add fresh flavors to your kitchen all year long. One growing trend is to create delicious and bountiful garnish gardens filled with herbs and produce to serve as the final touch for different food and beverage options. Even experienced gardeners often choose to focus on a few simple, high-in-flavor items that will elevate summer meals and cocktails such as juicy berries, savory herbs and other seasonal produce.

As a bonus, gardening can provide stress relief and a sense of accomplishment in a fast-paced and challenging world. According to a 2020 study conducted by Fiskars, 46% of people in the U.S. say gardening is beneficial to their overall happiness. In that spirit, here are several tips from Fiskars to prepare and plant a summer garnish garden that will provide all kinds of delicious options for your at-home summer recipes.

Plot your growing area

Evaluate the growing season in your area and consider which of your outdoor spaces may provide enough sunlight for a viable garden. Depending on your ambition and commitment level, your garden could be as vast as your entire backyard or as simple as a few large pots on your patio or balcony. If you go big, be sure to allot extra time for cultivating, weeding and watering. For your first venture, you may want to start small with a few plants that are easy to shelter, grow and harvest.

Assemble effective tools

Having the right tools on hand is the best way to prepare to garden, especially if this is your first time putting a garden together. In fact, those who have gardened before know just how important this is — according to the same study, 77% of gardeners in the U.S. say having the right tools increases their happiness when gardening. This year, trade in your old tools for newer, ergonomically designed products that are not only more comfortable but also highly effective. For example, The Fiskars Xact Cultivator is made with deep, curved tines to efficiently loosen and aerate soil and a weighted handle for advanced comfort and control. The Xact Trowel can be comfortably gripped from multiple angles to pry through tough turf and dirt clots, and The Xact Hand Edger offers precision control when removing weeds, moss and debris from harder-to-reach places. All are equipped with SoftGrip handles and are perfect for planting herbs and fresh produce.

Choose versatile varieties

Consider which herbs, fruits and veggies will best contribute to the meals and beverages you like to prepare. For example, cucumbers or tomatoes can add a refreshing zing to salads and drinks, while rosemary and basil complement a range of both sweet and savory flavors in cocktails, grilled meats, vegetables, soups and salads. Other popular and easy-to-grow herbs include thyme, parsley, dill, cilantro and chives. Berry choices may include strawberries, raspberries and blackberries — just make sure you have enough room to let these bushy plants grow!

Optimize your harvest

There’s nothing as refreshing as the taste of fresh produce, and being able to incorporate it into meals and tasty treats is one of the best perks of summer. Consider creative presentation ideas, too — try adding sprigs of rosemary sprinkled into ice cube trays, colorful berries atop summer cocktails or cutting cucumbers or strawberries into multi-petaled roses. You can also set aside ingredients for later; berries can be frozen, tomatoes can be canned and herbs can be dried to season meals throughout the colder months. Saving some of your hard-earned harvest will be sure to remind you of the simple pleasures derived from your own backyard.

To find more tips on effective gardening as well as DIY inspiration and ideas, visit Fiskars.com. Happy growing!


Not driving as often right now? Here’s how to keep your car fresh

2020-05-06T09:01:00

(BPT) – During a season that’s usually devoted to adventure, many of us have been forced to stick a little closer to home. When it’s finally time to return to our globetrotting ways, it’s vital to make sure our vehicles are ready.

That means taking active steps now, while our cars are mostly idle. How do we make sure they’re in top shape for the journeys to come? There’s no one better to ask than Charles, the Humble Mechanic, whose YouTube tips have helped millions get the most out of their vehicles.

Get charged up

If you’re charged up for adventure, we don’t blame you. As we wait for the pathway to become clearer, Charles notes it’s important for our batteries to stay charged, too.

“Things like big temperature swings and not being driven for extended periods of time cause extra strain on the vehicle battery,” he says. “With the average life span of a vehicle battery being three to five years, we want to do everything we can to keep it healthy.”

The key to getting your battery in gear? Using it regularly will keep it charged. Other tips include making sure your car is locked — so all computer systems know to sleep — and unplugging items from your cigarette lighter.

Be entirely confident

Tires are your car’s only safety device that touches the road. While you wait to head back onto the highway for an extended trip, make sure they’re in excellent working order.

There’s a danger to look out for if your car has been sitting for a long time: flat-spotting, or isolated flattening in parts of the tire that are in contact with the ground. The easiest fix: driving your car at least once each week.

“Flat spotting is variable and worse with heavy vehicles,” says Nokian Tyres Director of Products Steve Bourassa. “Cold weather will make it more prominent. Some might see it overnight while others might only experience it after sitting for a week.”

If you’ve driven several miles and still feel vibration, this may be the problem and you should take your car to a tire dealer.

Now is also a good time to make sure you’re driving the right tires.

“Seasonal tires are the optimal choice for those living in a northern climate,” Bourassa says. “It is important to change to appropriate tires for spring and summer. Winter tires will wear quickly in hot weather, and braking distances will also increase compared to your summer rubber.”

If you drive one set of tires year-round but live in an area with unpredictable winters, it might be a good time to consider all-weather tires, which allow for year-round use but better protect you from wintry roads.

Once you’re confident you’re riding on the right tires, be sure they’re up to speed. Use the penny test to check tread depth, and use a tire pressure gauge to ensure they’re properly inflated — you can typically find your car’s recommended psi level inside the driver’s side door jamb or owner manual.

“It’s important to ensure appropriate inflation pressures for your vehicle,” Bourassa said. “Also check the condition of your tires, looking for cracking or discoloration that could be a sign of damage. If you notice anything unusual, bring it to your tire dealer for an expert opinion.”

Embrace the fluid situation

Next, make sure your car’s juices are flowing properly.

“There are about eight fluids in most cars,” Charles says. “That includes engine oil, transmission fluid, coolant/antifreeze, power steering fluid, brake fluid, differential fluid, windshield washer fluid and, of course, gasoline.”

Check your dipstick to make sure your oil is at the right level. Check the other fluids while you’re at it, seeking out a dealer for help with tougher-to-measure fluids.

Keep your motor running

There’s one main rule of thumb Charles recommends: Keeping your car active, even though you aren’t able to go everywhere you want right now.

“Cars are meant to be driven,” says Charles. “Cars with high miles always seem to have fewer issues than cars that were barely driven. I take my cars for a cruise every 10-14 days. This gets the tires up to temperature and rolling, the fluids circulating, and the battery charged. Windows down and radio up is also good to clear the brain.”

Here’s to recharging now, so we’re ready for the days when the journey is beautiful once again.

Visit NokianTires.com/FreshStart for more ways to get the most out of your vehicle.