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Living with diabetes: tips to prepare for low blood sugar this winter

2020-12-21T10:01:00

(BPT) – The winter season brings a change in routines for everyone — more time indoors, shifts in temperature, the temptation of hearty comfort foods and sweet treats, and more than ever, staying healthy amidst a challenging cold and flu season. For people living with diabetes, changes and unpredictable routines can make it more difficult to manage blood sugar levels. That’s why it’s so important for people with diabetes to be prepared for the unexpected and have a preparedness plan in place in the event of blood sugar lows or emergencies.

“Seasonal changes that disrupt routines, like colder weather or the holidays, may make managing blood sugar levels challenging,” said Dr. Gregory Dodell, endocrinologist and member of the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE). “Despite all efforts to maintain optimal blood sugar levels, lows can still happen. It’s important for people with diabetes and the people around them to be prepared for low blood sugar, also known as hypoglycemia, which can become so low that it is considered a medical emergency.”[1]

As we head into winter, Dr. Dodell shares some tips to help people living with diabetes be prepared for low blood sugar.

Meals and snacks may differ this time of year

The holiday season can be a busy and stressful time of year. Consuming different quantities and types of food, whether it’s a holiday meal, more snacking throughout the day, or being so busy that you don’t have a chance to eat consistently may affect blood sugar levels and can cause unexpected lows. An important part of being prepared is having fast-acting carbs, like glucose tablets or sweets, and a prescription rescue treatment on hand.[1]

Track changes in exercise and mobility

Blood sugar levels can drop following exercise at any time of year.[2] But in winter, there are a few other considerations to keep in mind. You may be spending more time indoors to avoid the cooler weather, or you may be outside hitting the slopes, building a snowman or shoveling the driveway. Whether you’re exercising more or less than usual, colder weather can impact your regular exercise regimen, which can affect your needs around blood sugar management. During the colder winter months, our bodies also burn more calories to stay warm, so it’s important to make sure to dress warmly. Whether you’re heading outside or curling up on the couch this winter, make sure your blood sugar management supplies are nearby — and accessible to those around you.

Watch your health during cold and flu season

We may be washing our hands more than ever, but cold and flu season is still upon us. For people with diabetes, catching a mild cold may affect blood sugar levels and bring about unexpected low blood sugar. This is because diabetes can make the immune system less able to fight infections. Even acute illnesses can make it harder for people with diabetes to control their blood sugar.[3] To protect against the flu and serious flu complications, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends people with diabetes get a flu shot.[3] If you do get a winter bug, remember that sometimes people don’t feel like eating when they are sick and a reduced appetite can cause blood sugar levels to fall.[3] If you start to feel under the weather, talk to your doctor or schedule a telehealth visit, keep yourself hydrated and well-nourished, and tell those around you how to recognize signs and symptoms of low blood sugar and where to find your blood sugar supplies, should you need them.

Create and share a low blood sugar rescue plan with your support network

As important as it is to have low blood sugar supplies nearby, it’s just as crucial to make sure those around you know where your supplies are and how to help you in the event of a very low blood sugar emergency.

Talk to your diabetes healthcare team about preparing for lows and develop a plan for mild, moderate and severe low blood sugar. Ask questions about what to do in case your blood sugar falls too low and how those around you can help in the event of an emergency.

“Once you have a plan in place, consider the people around you — from neighbors, teachers and co-workers to family and friends,” said singer/songwriter and Lilly Diabetes Ambassador Crystal Bowersox. “Winter is a great time to connect with people and talk to them about your diabetes and what they can do to help. I’ve taught my family, friends, manager and son Tony the signs and symptoms of a very low blood sugar emergency and showed them where my supplies are. Now, they feel more confident about when and how they may need to step in to administer an emergency rescue treatment and call for help if I need it.”

“Don’t let the winter months derail your diabetes management,” advises Dr. Dodell. “Head into the new year knowing you and your support network have a plan for managing low blood sugar.”

For helpful tips to start the conversation with your healthcare team and support network, visit KnowBeforeTheLow.com. There you can learn more about preparing for low blood sugar and find resources to help you and your support network Know Before the LowTM.


[2] American Diabetes Association, Blood Sugar and Exercise. Website: https://www.diabetes.org/fitness/get-and-stay-fit/getting-started-safely/blood-glucose-and-exercise

[3] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Flu & People with Diabetes. Website: https://www.cdc.gov/flu/highrisk/diabetes.htm


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Resolve to achieve healthy sleep in 2021

2020-12-21T09:07:01

(BPT) – According to a recent survey from the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM), 85% of U.S. adults do not get the recommended seven hours or more of sleep every night. After a challenging and stressful year, the New Year provides Americans with the opportunity to refocus on the importance of making healthy sleep a priority.

“Our survey findings show a worrying trend of national sleep deprivation,” said AASM president Dr. Kannan Ramar. “Insufficient sleep contributes to the risk for several of today’s public health epidemics, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes and obesity. As such, it is critical that we incorporate healthy sleep habits and routines into our daily lives to be our best in 2021.”

Why should we make healthy sleep a New Year’s resolution?

The AASM recommends that adults sleep at least seven hours each night to promote optimal health and well-being. In the same survey, slightly more than one-third (34%) of Americans said they sleep for seven or more hours only two nights — or fewer — each week, in line with findings from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Regularly sleeping less than seven hours per day is associated with an increased risk of developing chronic conditions such as obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke and frequent mental distress. Resolve to make 365 days of healthy sleep your goal for 2021 by keeping in mind its extensive benefits:

  • Sleep makes you healthier – Without good sleep, both mental and physical health suffer greatly, putting Americans at an increased risk of chronic disease.
  • Sleep makes you happier – Sleep has a positive effect on mood and overall sense of well-being and can improve relationships with others.
  • Sleep makes you smarter – Getting the right amount of sleep is conducive to learning, memory recall, creativity and cognitive function.

What is inhibiting us from achieving the recommended seven hours of sleep?

Despite evidence showing the importance of adequate sleep, it often can take a back seat to other behaviors we find important. According to the AASM’s July 2020 survey, a vast majority (68%) of U.S. adults lose sleep due to drinking alcohol past bedtime. Americans also report staying up past their bedtime to binge-watch a TV show or stream a video series (88%), read a book (66%), watch a sporting event (58%) and play video games (50%).

How has the pandemic impacted sleep?

With a change in daily routines, the COVID-19 pandemic is also disrupting sleep for Americans. According to the AASM survey, one in five Americans (22%) are sleeping worse due to the pandemic, and 19% are getting less nightly sleep.

“Despite the fact that many Americans are no longer commuting to and from work, it is paramount to establish and maintain morning and bedtime rituals, such as getting up and going to bed at regular times to achieve adequate sleep,” added Ramar.

What are some tips to kick off the New Year with healthy sleep?

  • Obtain adequate sleep – Set a bedtime that allows you to get enough sleep so you wake up feeling refreshed and alert. Identify an appropriate bedtime for your age and lifestyle using the AASM bedtime calculator.
  • Establish a bedtime and waketime routine – Consider developing a nightly routine that evokes calm and relaxation, which may include reading, journaling or meditating. Even for those working remotely, allow ample time to wake, reflect and prepare for the day ahead.
  • Ensure the bedroom is a space for sleep – Limit noise and distractions by making your bedroom quiet, dark and a little bit cool – and only use the bed for sleeping, not watching TV or reading.
  • Set boundaries for blue light exposure – Consider setting a technology curfew by turning off your TV and other electronic devices 30 minutes to an hour before bedtime. Silence your notifications and charge your devices away from your bed so you are not tempted to look at social media or news alerts.
  • Limit alcohol, caffeine and large meals before bed – Avoid consuming caffeine after lunch and avoid alcohol near bedtime, as both can disrupt sleep. If hungry after dinner, keep snacks small, sugar-free and easily digestible so as to not disrupt sleep.

For PDFs of the AASM’s 2019 and 2020 Sleep Prioritization Survey results, please visit https://aasm.org/about/newsroom/.

For more information on the importance of healthy sleep, visit SleepEducation.org.


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Burglars don’t take off for the holidays: 5 tips to prevent home break-ins

2020-12-21T12:41:01

(BPT) – While consumers have been in their homes more in 2020 due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, USAA wants consumers to be aware of the potential increase in thefts during the holiday season.

Top 10 states for USAA personal property theft claims in 2020

1. California

2. Texas

3. Washington

4. Colorado

5. Georgia

6. Virginia

7. North Carolina

8. Oregon

9. Florida

10. Arizona

Even though you may be home more now than ever, don’t let your guard down. In fact, unlocked doors and windows can be the cause of successful burglaries, but they can be easily preventable. Home security is vital to the safety of yourself, your family and your belongings.

Here are five simple ideas to help prevent home break-ins.

Install a home security system: Security systems offer perhaps the most powerful protection for your home. Even a simple alarm system and a few well-placed signs in your yard and on your windows can greatly diminish the likelihood of home break-ins. If you can afford it, motion sensors on doors and windows, along with 24-hour monitoring, deliver even greater protection. Monitored security systems, such as ADT Home Security, may allow for discounts on your home or renters insurance.

Don’t hide keys outside of your house: For convenience, many people hide a key outside near the front door. If a key is easy for your family or friends to find, it’s easy for a thief to find. Instead, leave a key with a neighbor you trust.

Make it look like you’re home: Most thieves want to strike while you’re away. With some good sense and creativity, you can fool them into thinking you are home. Consider purchasing timers that turn your lamps and TV on and off at different times in the evening. You may also consider a timer for your front porch light. Also consider suspending your mail and newspaper delivery while you are away.

Install outdoor lighting: Darkness is a burglar’s best friend. When thieves approach your home, a bright light suddenly turning on may have them consider moving on. Motion activated lights are inexpensive, easy to install and a great way to put thieves in the spotlight.

Keep windows and doors locked: This tip may seem obvious, but unlocked doors and windows are the cause of successful burglaries. If you open a window to let the crisp, cool air in, remember to close them.

For additional tips visit usaa.com/renters.

Use of the term “member” or “membership” refers to membership in USAA Membership Services and does not convey any legal or ownership rights in USAA. Restrictions apply and are subject to change. To join USAA, separated military personnel must have received a discharge type of “Honorable.” Eligible former dependents of USAA members may join USAA.

Property and casualty insurance provided by United Services Automobile Association, USAA Casualty Insurance Company, USAA General Indemnity Company, Garrison Property and Casualty Insurance Company, based in San Antonio, TX; USAA Limited (UK) and USAA S.A. (Europe) and is available only to persons eligible for P&C group membership. Each company has sole financial responsibility for its own products.


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Having trouble hearing? 5 tips to still stay connected during the holidays

2020-12-21T09:01:00

(BPT) – This holiday season may look very different from years past — more family get-togethers on video rather than in-person — but one thing remains true: these times can be stressful and difficult for those managing hearing loss, which impacts 48 million Americans, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Hearing loss has been shown to affect nearly every dimension of human life, including physical, emotional and mental health. During the holidays, it can be even more overwhelming for those living with hearing loss, since many have a difficult time following conversations or fully participating in family traditions, and studies have shown this can lead to feeling more isolated and excluded from family festivities.

These experiences are all too familiar for Eric Jackson, the renowned former U.S. World Champion and Olympic Kayaker, who has lived with hearing loss most of his life after a bout with scarlet fever as a child.

“During special occasions when you are with people you haven’t seen in a while, you can’t be fully engaged with them, and unlike the people around you, you are not able to catch up the same way, which ends up feeling like you are missing out on the fun,” said Jackson.

Now at age 54, his hearing has been partially restored over time, but he continues to rely on his ReSound ONE hearing aids and lip reading to help him communicate. “When you have hearing loss, you don’t realize how smart, witty and funny family and friends can be, and having fully functional hearing aids changes that dramatically,” said Jackson.

According to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD), nearly 30 million Americans could benefit from using hearing aids. “Since I first began using hearing aids, I am amazed at the advancements in hearing technology, but it all starts with taking a hearing test to understand the best approach for you,” said Jackson, who is now partnering with ReSound to encourage others to manage their hearing loss.

As people spend time with family and friends this year either in person or via virtual gathering methods, below are some tips Eric has shared from his own experiences to help improve communication:

  1. Always wear your hearing aids and adjust the settings as needed depending on your environment.
  2. Be honest and direct with people about your hearing loss, and if you ask them, they are usually willing to speak up and more clearly.
  3. Position yourself front and center at the table or in the middle of the screen so you can lip read — an important cue to help identify speech.
  4. Use a “secret signal” between you and a friend or relative to let them know you are having trouble hearing and need something repeated as they will help keep you in the conversation.
  5. During a longer exchange, don’t be shy about asking to move to a quieter location so you are able to understand the conversation better.

If you believe you may be experiencing hearing loss or if a loved one is showing signs of hearing loss, visit ReSound.com to take a free online hearing test and start the new year by taking action about your hearing.


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5 home makeover ideas for the 2021 New Year

2020-12-21T12:01:02

(BPT) – The new year is all about change, and the relationship you have with your home has likely changed significantly this year. After spending so much time at home, many people are reevaluating their spaces.

As the new year begins, take the opportunity to explore home makeovers and new room designs. What dreams do you have for your home? From incorporating technology to making your space more efficient, the possibilities are endless. Here are some ideas to get you inspired.

Create a home office

Many people are working remotely right now without an end date in sight. And even after things get back to normal, work life is bound to look different. A designated working space is a valuable addition to your productivity regimen, and you’ll find that it makes home feel a bit more like the office. Even if you don’t have the square footage to build out an office, get creative with what you have. Try taking the doors off your guest bedroom closet for a tiny home office or reimagining some of the lesser used rooms in your home. Remember that attic? It might be a great place to set up shop for a quiet workday.

Upgrade your appliances

This year has proven that our kitchens are more important than ever — and the most important parts of our kitchens are the appliances that we use every day. If it’s been a while, consider upgrading your appliances for a modern look and more efficient functionality. For example, LG Electronics developed LG Proactive Customer Care, an AI-enabled preventative maintenance service that will alert you about any potential issues with your LG smart appliances before it becomes a problem. It will also remind you when it’s time to change a filter or buy a replacement part. If you’re making a big investment for your home, why not make sure it lasts a long time?

Spruce up the outdoors

Outdoor space continues to become more and more valuable. A little outdoor work can help increase the value of your home. Smart outdoor investments include shade covers for your patio or porch, outdoor heating elements and outdoor kitchens. For a shorter-term solution, try adding more seating with built-in benches for socially distant gatherings.

Enhance the HVAC system

HVAC systems no longer have to be loud or clunky. New wall-mounted, duct-free HVAC systems from LG come in a variety of styles and can be easily installed by a contractor. The ultra-quiet “Art Cool” options even look like a photo frame on the wall and allow you to display your own artwork. These systems also allow you to adjust the temperature from an app on your phone or using simple commands through Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa.

Find purpose for unused spaces

If you have a spot in your home that goes unused, it’s time to find it a new purpose. For example, many homes have formal dining rooms that no one ever steps foot in. If you have an abandoned space, try turning it into something you’ll use more often. A game room, home office or a space for fitness are all good ideas to consider.

Do you have a list of home goals for 2021? Use these home makeover ideas to make them a reality.


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Breathe easy: What you need to know before buying an air purifier

2020-12-21T16:03:02

(BPT) – More people than ever before are considering room air filters and purifiers to protect themselves against COVID-19 indoors. But do these devices really make a difference?

Air purifiers and filters can help reduce airborne contaminants, including viruses, in a home, office or other confined space. While an air purifier by itself is not enough to protect people from COVID-19, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), when used along with the other best practices it recommends, operating an air purifier can be part of a plan to protect you and your family.

It’s easy to see how breathing cleaner air could improve overall health and well-being — and some independent studies do show a benefit from air filters and purifiers. In fact, some of the technologies now used in these devices have been scientifically proven to remove or destroy harmful pathogens in the air.

Types of Air Cleaners

Before you buy, learn about the three primary types of air cleaning technologies.

* HEPA (high efficiency particulate air) filters use a woven filtration material to trap particles like smoke, dust and pathogens. Certified HEPA filters can collect 99.97% of particles of a certain size (0.3 microns in diameter or larger), which includes many viruses. Filters need to be changed on a regular basis and can be costly, so check the cost before you buy. While HEPA filters capture the most contaminants, they can also impede the volume of air that circulates.

* Ultraviolet germicidal irradiation, (UVGI) also referred to as UV-C, uses a specific type of ultraviolet light that deactivates pathogens such as bacteria and viruses. It’s a technology that’s been tested and used in hospitals and healthcare settings for years. A UV-C purifier doesn’t just trap smoke and dust like a HEPA filter: instead it inactivates viruses and other pathogens, rendering them harmless. While direct exposure to UV-C light can be harmful, it is safe when the UV-C bulb is completely concealed inside the unit, shielded from sight.

For the most effective results, it’s important that the UV-C light is strong enough and the air exposure time is long enough. One UV-C purifier, the Airetrex 365, uses a 5-watt UV-C bulb for powerful exposure, with an air replacement rate of up to four times per hour in a 10’ by 10’ room. With average use, the bulb lasts up to two years. More details about UV-C technology from independent experts can be found at airetrex365.com, under “Why UV-C.”

* Ionization uses electricity to change airborne particles from a positive to a negative state, weighing them down and causing them to drop from the air – effectively deactivating the virus particles. However, in the process, a potentially harmful byproduct called ozone is created. Anyone considering this technology should check the Ozone Parts Per Million rating (PPM) to ensure it is below the Food and Drug Administration’s limit of .005 PPM.

Can you combine technologies?

What about filters and purifiers that combine multiple technologies, like HEPA, UV-C and ionization – would that produce even cleaner air? The findings here are still unclear, and more is not always better.

It’s best to focus on the features and benefits most important to you – and how well different filtration components can meet those needs in your selected space. For example, if you only want to trap most large airborne particles and allergens, a HEPA filter might be sufficient. On the other hand, if you’re concerned about viruses, like the coronavirus that causes COVID-19, you might consider the more advanced features of an air purifier with a UV-C light.

Other considerations

You should also consider room size before deciding on which air cleaner to purchase. Most manufacturers specify maximum square footage for different models, according to their capacity to filter the air in a room of a particular size in an hour. For homes, most heating and air conditioning experts recommend that the air in a room be replaced or exchanged close to three times every hour at a minimum.

Air purifiers work much better in a closed or sealed room versus a big open space. Most homes rely on natural ventilation from doors, windows and air leaks for fresh air, unless the home has an air exchanger. Air purifiers can be particularly effective in homes and where there is limited ability to add fresh air.

What filter works best?

The answer depends on your needs. But the good news is that we can all breathe a little easier with today’s advances in home air-cleaning technology.

People with a condition like asthma will benefit most from HEPA air filters, since they remove irritants like smoke, dust and dander. All these elements can impact health. If you’re looking for a purifier to potentially reduce exposure to pathogens and viruses, an air purifier with UV-C technology will likely process and sanitize more air in less time.


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Considering relocating? 4 reasons to Choose Casper, Wyoming

2020-12-21T07:01:00

(BPT) – Everyone’s lives have been upended this year, and with those changes have come new attitudes about how people everywhere live and work. More people working remotely and from home has led to a re-evaluation of lifestyles and future goals — at times shifting the focus to where people choose to live, and why.

Many are exploring locations around the country with new priorities in mind, leading to growing interest in living in more rural areas. These new goals and values may just lead you to consider new frontiers where you could relocate your home or business.

Fortunately, there are places like Casper, Wyoming, that have communities actively reaching out and welcoming new residents and companies. And although Casper is the second-largest city in Wyoming (behind Cheyenne), there are only around 57,000 people currently living there — which means that it feels more like a small town, with plenty of room to grow.

If you’re one of the many Americans seeking a change, here are some of the top reasons to choose Casper.

A breath of fresh mountain air

For those who love the great outdoors, whether for recreation opportunities or just to enjoy breathtaking scenery, there’s no place quite like Casper. Uniquely positioned where the High Plains meet the Rocky Mountains, Casper offers easy access to incredible adventures that are unrivalled anywhere in the American West.

The area’s plentiful outdoor locales offer:

  • 90 miles of beautiful hiking and biking trails in and around Casper Mountain
  • Fly-fishing on the North Platte River, a blue ribbon fishery
  • Skiing within 15 minutes of town at Hogadon Basin Ski Area
  • 53 parks for you and your family to enjoy, including 30 playgrounds for the kids
  • Tee times and tournaments at the Casper Municipal Golf Course

A great place to raise a family

In addition to the great outdoor spaces for kids to thrive in, Casper offers 19 elementary schools, with three of them providing dual-language immersion programs (Spanish and Mandarin Chinese). The Natrona County School District No. 1 is an open enrollment district, which offers parents the freedom to find the school with just the right curriculum for your children.

The Casper Recreation Center is just one of the great resources for families in the area, offering indoor activities and exercise facilities, with games and classes for all ages. The facility also houses a world-class indoor aquatics center and an indoor ice area that offers recreational opportunities for kids and adults alike.

Looking to get more bang for your housing buck? Median home prices are far lower than in many other cities in the West, and residents pay the ninth lowest real estate property taxes in the country.

With no state income tax, Casper also has the tenth lowest cost of living in the U.S., which means your hard-earned dollars will go a lot further to help support your growing family.

Cultural and educational opportunities

Casper offers 11 area museums, including the Nicolaysen Art Museum, featuring modern and contemporary art by Picasso, Dali, Charles Russell and many more. For amateur paleontologists, the Tate Geological Museum houses a real T-rex and a Columbia woolly mammoth. Kids of all ages can explore the history of the area at Fort Caspar.

The Wyoming Symphony Orchestra is based in Casper, along with a number of other top-notch performing arts organizations, including the Casper Children’s Theatre.

The city is also home to the University of Wyoming at Casper as well as Casper College, one of the largest community colleges in the region.

Business is thriving

Whether for entrepreneurs looking to start a new business or for established businesses looking for a new locale, Casper has copious opportunities for growth.

“Casper is a place that fuels innovation,” said Amber Pollock, co-owner of Backwards Distilling Company and one of the newest members of the Casper City Council. “It’s a place that inspires you and lets you face challenges head-on, while also aligning you with other like-minded entrepreneurs who are looking to build a business and have an incredible quality of life outside of work.”

Sound interesting? To provide a resource for potential residents and businesses interested in moving to Casper, several private and public partners launched the Choose Casper website, ChooseCPR.com, aimed at helping people learn more about the area’s many amenities and opportunities. The site offers helpful information on schools, real estate, the cost of living and recreational offerings. You can also learn from local ambassadors on the site, who share what it’s like to live, work and play in Casper, Wyoming.


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5 multitasking tips for life at home

2020-12-21T07:01:00

(BPT) – This year, you’ve learned how to do almost everything from home — from work and school to the gym and virtual social gatherings. Even though you’re home most of the time, there can still be a lot to do. These five multitasking tips can help you reorganize your to-do list and get more out of your day at home.

1. Segment your tasks

Multitasking doesn’t always mean doing multiple things at once. Sometimes you can be more productive by breaking larger tasks into smaller parts. Once you’ve mastered the art, sprinkle manageable bits of it into your regular schedule. You’ll find it’s easier than you expected, and you’ll forget you ever had a problem multitasking to begin with.

2. Find tools that help you do more

Cleaning no longer has to be a chore that takes up hours of your time. When you invest in appliances that do the dirty work for you, they work harder and save you more time and effort. Powerful robot vacuums, like the LG CordZero ThinQ Robotic Vacuum, can handle all your vacuuming needs. With a mighty motor, built-in intelligence, and ultra quiet performance, new technologies make it simple to keep your home clean.

3. Minimize distractions

Multitasking can help with productivity, but it drains your attention span. Even when small distractions arise, they can throw off your entire day. There are so many things that can distract you at all hours of the day — phone calls, text messages and social media, just to name a few. If possible, put your phone away, put on some noise canceling headphones and ask your family members to give you some peaceful working time.

4. Make a delegation to-do list

Multitasking goes even further when you have more people helping out. If there are tasks on your list that you know your spouse, child or other family member could take on, try delegating. Communicate your expectations in a family meeting so everyone has a clear idea of their duties.

5. Set up auto-delivery

Home delivery is the ultimate multitasking hack. If you don’t have time to run to the store for your daily essentials, a delivery service can bring those items right to you while you focus on more important tasks. Find a service that works for you, simply input your list and you’ll always have a full pantry and fridge. Plus, you’ll avoid distractions and the temptation to buy more than you need at the store.

Smart multitasking can help you be more productive and increase the time you spend on the things you love. Follow these tips to become a master multitasker.


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5 Design Tips to Make ‘Working from Home’ Work for You

2020-12-19T15:59:00

(BPT) – These days, many homeowners are finding themselves spending more time working from home. Whether making calls, answering emails or closing deals, homeowners are searching for comfortable areas to get the job done — and recharge throughout the day. And when it comes to designing these spaces, professionals agree: get creative with natural materials, like cypress.

Tuck it Away

Photo courtesy Jack Gardner Photography

Working from home may sound like a dream to some, but for others, distractions abound. That’s why it’s important to find a quiet space with some privacy. If traditional doors are too basic, architect Geoff Chick from Santa Rosa Beach, Florida, suggests sliding barn doors.

“I recently worked with a homeowner who wanted a secret office space that he could close off to the house as needed,” Chick says. “Aesthetically, we chose to build a barn door from cypress because of the wood’s natural beauty and character. And all said and done, the cypress barn door steals the show — open or closed.”

Dress it Up

Photo courtesy Jack Gardner Photography

Falling victim to a productivity pitfall? A well-designed home office that incorporates natural lighting and materials can enhance the space’s ambience and get your creative juices flowing.

“No matter the size of your home office, consider dressing up plain walls with shiplap,” Chick says. “For example, pecky cypress paneling can add a layer of detail and texture to a boring nook in a master bedroom, which would be otherwise overlooked and underutilized.”

Make Sure it Functions

Photo courtesy Frederick & Frederick Architects, Jane Frederick

Whether with a laptop or tablet, you could set up shop anywhere with a reliable Wi-Fi signal — but that doesn’t mean you should. Having a dedicated workspace helps keep you on task. And when it comes to selecting a suitable desk, Jane Frederick of Frederick + Frederick Architects in Beaufort, South Carolina, says there are two important factors to consider: design and comfort.

“Touching a solid surface speaks to the quality of construction,” she adds. “I once designed a desk made out of solid, river-recovered cypress, with a live-edge walnut top and plenty of storage. It’s built to last and stunningly beautiful.”

Keep it Flexible

Photo courtesy Julian Murphy

Have you heard of adjustable height desks? Whether you choose to sit or stand, these surface solutions are highly popular and simple to build — even for novice-to-expert DIYers.

“Creating a custom desk is easier than it sounds,” says Julian Murphy of LucyDIYdesigns in Houma, Louisiana. “For desk tops, I like cypress, particularly pecky or sinker cypress, because it’s easy to work with, offers natural character, and slabs can be found in intriguing shapes. When selecting a finish, I prefer epoxy resins, which are durable and really show off the wood’s beauty. My most important advice is to strictly follow the epoxy resin instructions to ensure proper curing.”

Once your desk surface is ready, Murphy says you can easily attach motorized, adjustable-height desk legs or a traditional base.

A Place to Unwind

Photo courtesy Jack Gardner Photography

At the end of the day — or if you need a quick, mid-day break — it’s always refreshing to have a peaceful space to recharge.

“When designing a room that’s intended for relaxation, I like working with natural materials and light finishes to evoke calmness and serenity,” Chick says. “A pecky cypress ceiling is perfect for these rooms because the wood has a unique way of making spaces feel more authentic. The material exudes timelessness and irreplicable character.”

If you’re looking to make “working from home” work better for you, get creative with cypress. Visit www.CypressInfo.org for more tips and tricks.


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5 reasons to hire a professional photographer for family portraits

2020-12-19T07:01:00

(BPT) – During a year that has been like no other, one thing is clear — family is more important than ever. Between the family members you’ve spent every moment with to those you dearly miss, the bonds between you are stronger than ever. What better way to celebrate your loved ones than to have a professional portrait taken?

While everyone with a phone these days also has a camera, the truth is that the photos you may find social media-worthy are rarely good enough to hang on your wall or give to the grandparents. And taking a quality photograph of an entire family that you really want to frame and cherish for years to come? That’s nearly impossible to accomplish — unless you’re a professional photographer.

Here are some reasons why hiring a professional photographer is the best choice for your next family portrait.

1. Professional photographers are highly trained

Professional photographers really understand how to use the tools of their trade, including how to compose a photograph, using the subtle art of lighting and optimal background settings to their best advantage. And Certified Professional Photographers must pass a rigorous exam and a Technical Image Evaluation by Professional Photographers of America (PPA). Not only do these tests demonstrate their strong technical abilities, but they also show that they have met a high standard of proficiency in photography. A PPA Certified Professional Photographer is especially skilled at capturing high-quality images under any condition.

2. The pros understand how to bring the best out of your family

Experienced professional photographers are gifted at capturing the unique personalities and relationships of your family. Professionals are able to talk to family members, helping them feel relaxed and comfortable, whether they are very young children or reluctant teens. They know how to arrange the family group and create poses that are both natural and photogenic. They understand what will look great in a photograph and what will accurately capture the moment in time.

3. A professional portrait creates a timeless family heirloom

Just as you are unlikely to ask your cousin to snap your wedding pics with his smartphone, relying only on a family member’s skill with their phone’s camera for a photo you want to keep forever is not a safe bet. Instead of relying on a smartphone and digital files alone, you can ask a professional photographer for a variety of print options — to create meaningful and treasured holiday gifts, suitable for family members near and far. A beautifully framed, stunning family portrait on the wall makes a wonderful statement. A masterful family photograph is a work of art that creates a striking focal point for any room. It captures a moment in time you will appreciate even more as your children — and grandchildren — grow and change over time. These images are keepsakes whose stories you’ll tell time and time again, and will treasure forever.

4. A photo session with a professional is a great experience

Using a professional photographer is a memorable experience from beginning to end. Perhaps unlike your previous experiences trying to wrangle the family for an impromptu photo session run by you or your spouse, your family’s session with a pro will be stress-free, because a professional photographer can help guide you throughout the process. From preparing for the session to wardrobe choices, backgrounds and other tips, you and your family won’t have to worry. You can just relax and enjoy the process. You’ll not only have the great photos to show for it, but also beautiful memories of a truly remarkable and unique experience with your family.

5. Professional photographers are business owners

When you hire a professional photographer, you know that you’re getting someone who is willing to go the extra mile to deliver the best possible images. As business owners who thrive on customer service and satisfaction, professional photographers continuously aim to produce products that exceed customer expectations. When you hire a member of the Professional Photographers of America, you are ensuring that you’re hiring a photographer with substantial technical abilities. The investment in an experienced professional photographer is an investment in a high-quality family keepsake.

Interested in finding a professional photographer in your area? Visit FindAPhotographer.com.