Month: July 2021

2021-07-02T14:53:13

(BPT) – Many people are looking for ways to update their homes to provide a sense of comfort and connection to the outdoors. The goal is to create a safe, calm oasis at home, drawing inspiration from biophilic designs, which means enhancements that focus on a human’s innate attraction to nature.

Outdoor projects are flourishing as people extend their living spaces to feel closer to their natural surroundings. Check out these top backyard renovation ideas:

1) Water elements

There’s something serene about listening to the ocean waves or a bubbling brook, and people are bringing this feeling home by incorporating water elements into their outdoor spaces. The stress-reducing effect of listening to water is welcome, plus water elements add to the outdoor aesthetic and beautify the space. Something as simple as a solar-powered fountain can work this magic, but many people are investing more money into permanent structures, such as garden streams, ponds and pondless waterfalls.

2) Full outdoor kitchens

Eating al fresco is wonderful for sharing meals, but cooking al fresco takes outdoor living to a whole new level. Outdoor kitchens are trending, with many people customizing patio spaces with a grill, hearth or pizza oven, refrigerator and even a sink thanks to above-floor plumbing solutions like the Sanivite drain pump from Saniflo. Typically for proper drainage, you would need conventional, below-floor plumbing, but above-the-floor options like drain pumps make it possible to add a sink and more where no drainage currently exists. After a full outdoor kitchen is established, people are rounding out these spaces with a dining table and even lounge chairs for conversing and making memories at home.

3) Functional landscaping

People are striving for thoughtful landscape designs that keep in mind their needs and the needs of the environment. For example, shade elements provide comfort, privacy and sound control, allowing spaces to be used for gathering or for work and study. Sustainable gardens are another good example, with people wanting the ability to produce herbs, vegetables and fruits at home. Beyond the garden plot, this includes container gardens, raised-bed gardens and integrating edibles into landscaping. People are enjoying the ability to get creative and exercise their green thumb.

4) Outdoor bathrooms

For people who have a pool, spa or detached workout space, having an outdoor bathroom can be a huge plus. However, it can also be costly and time-consuming to create one separate from the main home using conventional plumbing methods. Saniflo’s Sanicompact offers an alternative that requires no breaking up concrete or excavation to install expensive below-floor drainage. This self-contained macerating toilet is ideal for small spaces like a cabana or changing room where you’d also like to have a toilet. Plus, the dual-flush system saves water, which can help manage utility bills and support the environment.

5) Private, personalized outdoor rooms

With a bit of creativity and a strategic approach, people are creating outdoor “rooms” that are mini-escapes alongside Mother Nature. This might include creating a meditative garden in the corner of the yard, a yoga space for daily practice next to the patio, or a pathway that leads to a backyard bench for a reading retreat. Hardscaping such as rocks and stone is often used to define these spaces while trees, shrubs and vines are used to add privacy. Homeowners are even incorporating their personal tastes into these spaces with sculpture, glass art or other garden decor.

The pandemic has had an undeniable influence on architectural, building and remodeling trends, with outdoor projects popular nationwide. These top projects reflect the human desire for connection to the natural world and to find comfort in outdoor-living opportunities.

Learn more at www.saniflo.com.

2021-07-02T08:01:01

(BPT) – As more people venture out this summer, many online daters are looking forward to dating IRL (in real life) again. In a recent survey of U.S. daters, over 45% are feeling hopeful and excited about the prospect of taking their virtual connection to the next level and finally progressing their relationships in person. The survey, commissioned by the women-first dating and social networking app Bumble, also found that a whopping 91% of people believe that there’s no longer a stigma attached to meeting someone online since the pandemic began.

Whether you’re new to online dating or have been making virtual connections for years, now is a great time to refresh your profile and get ready for a summer of fun — and maybe even love.

“More than half of those using our app worldwide are currently updating and refreshing their dating profiles,” said Clare O’Connor, Head of Editorial Content at Bumble. “Every day, more people are becoming fully vaccinated, and in many countries, restrictions are easing — meaning dating is back, and this summer, people are making up for lost time.”

Here are tips for updating your online dating profile to make the most out of your dating experience, just in time for summer.

Refresh your photos

They say you’ve only got one chance to make a first impression. Make it count by choosing pictures that reveal your personality, hobbies, and style.

• Highlight your face: Ditch the sunglasses, show your whole smiling face without a filter, and make your first photo just you — so potential matches know who you are.
• Seasonal updates: Outdoor photos reveal what you love about summer — spiking a volleyball, playing with your dog, or soaking up the sun on the beach.
• Keep it real: Showcase slices of your actual life, especially activities you’d like to share. Adventurous? Include that great pic of you cliff-diving in Majorca. Animal lover? Post a cute snap of you and your four-legged friend.
• Enlist your BFFs: Ask your friends to help select photos. It’s been scientifically proven that letting someone else choose your profile photo results in more matches, according to Science Daily.

Show off your special, authentic self

Showcase your unique self in your profile and give examples or anecdotes. Many people are fun, outgoing, love to travel, or enjoy being active. Be specific. If you like to cook, what’s your favorite dish? What show are you watching on TV? What does your typical Saturday look like? What was your favorite vacation, and why? You may find someone who shares some of your quirks, unique style, or interests.

Be open to different modes of communication

Think phone calls and text messages are the only way to connect with your date? Not anymore! Switch it up by trying any of the below options.

• On Bumble, you can leave someone an audio message after you match with them!
• You can also try sending a video note, which is a quick video you record and send within your chat to help break the ice and build deeper conversations.
• Try a video chat! More people are adopting video chats as a pre-date before meeting up IRL in today’s “new normal.” Bumble’s survey found that nearly 1 in 2 (45%) respondents noticed that people are now more open to virtual dating and using video calls as a first date than ever before — and 1 out of 4 (25%) have said that video dates are now a normal part of the dating process.

Ask a question

When you make the first move and begin the conversation, make a statement about their profile and then include a question or two to get the conversation started. How about:

• What was the last movie you saw that you loved?
• If you could only eat one food for a month, what would you pick?
• What is the silliest thing you’re afraid of?
• Who is the most famous person you’ve met, and how did you meet them?

Ready to get out there again? Explore more resources to help you confidently put yourself back out there by visiting Bumble.com/Finally. The app is free and available worldwide in App Store and Google Play.

2021-07-01T08:05:00

(BPT) – These days you’re probably enjoying your outdoor spaces more than ever — and looking for ways to make them more comfortable, relaxing and fun for your family and friends when you get together. On top of upgrading your deck or patio, sprucing up your landscaping, and investing in some new outdoor furniture, you’re also probably trying to reduce some of the common pain points that plague outdoor spaces — like too much sun, and too many pests.

A recent survey of 2,000 American homeowners found that 41% of them made more investments in outdoor pest control during the pandemic, and 69% planned to make even more use of their outdoor spaces as the weather continues to warm up. The survey, conducted by TruGreen in partnership with OnePoll, found that 42% of respondents anticipated that mosquitoes would be their biggest pest this year.

While nobody enjoys having mosquitoes hanging around their outdoor barbeque or picnic, did you know there are things you’re doing that attract mosquitoes?

Here’s how you may be inviting mosquitoes to your outdoor party, and what you can do about it:

• Drinking beer and wine. Mosquitoes are attracted to high levels of carbon dioxide, elevated temperatures, and lactic acid — which all increase in your body when you drink alcohol, especially fermented beverages like beer and wine.
• Serving sugary foods and drinks. Mosquitoes need sugar to survive, and while they prefer to get their sugar fix from natural sources like plant nectar, the scent of sugary foods like baked treats and sugary sodas will also attract them.
• Wearing dark clothing. Dark-colored clothing retains heat more than light-colored clothing does, so choosing lighter colors will not only keep you cooler but likely less appealing to pesky mosquitoes.

What can you do to discourage mosquitoes from entering your outdoor space?

• Bring in a professional. Partnering with a professional service like TruGreen for mosquito control can help you enjoy your outdoor living space to the fullest this summer — providing much more effective, long-lasting protection against those pesky party crashers. TruGreen uses its science-based and local expertise to control and manage potentially disease-carrying insects in your outdoor living spaces.
• Crank up the fan. Mosquitoes aren’t the strongest flyers in the insect world, so they prefer not to fly into areas where wind or a fan is blowing around. Keeping a fan going outside, even if it’s blowing warm air around, will help keep pests away.
• Tidy up. Maintain a lawn clear of debris such as twigs, branches, and leaves to help prevent mosquitoes from making your home into theirs. Trimming overgrown vegetation will help prevent mosquitoes from hanging out, as they tend to prefer shaded areas.

“While you can try some natural methods to help keep pests at bay, by far the best protection from mosquitoes is using a professional pest control service like TruGreen,” said TruGreen entomologist John Bell. “We have the science-backed know-how to effectively control and reduce mosquito populations, guaranteeing that your outdoor living space is comfortable for your family, friends, and even your pets.”

You won’t have to worry about mosquitoes invading your fun if you engage a professional service. You can fully enjoy those long summer days and evenings comfortably outdoors. Visit TruGreen.com to learn more and to find a service near you.

2021-07-01T09:01:00

(BPT) – When the weather gets hot, it’s natural to seek cooling remedies such as splashing in a pool, sipping iced beverages and making meals that are quick to prepare and don’t heat up the kitchen.

Fresh grapes are a cooling ingredient that can refresh and elevate summertime meals with a burst of color, flavor and pleasing texture. For an easy but impressive main course, fire up the grill for Indian-Spiced Chicken and Grape Kebabs. After a quick marinade in coconut milk and southern Indian spices, grill for five minutes for a fast and tasty dish that keeps you out of the kitchen. Enjoy the contrast between the spicy chicken and the caramelized, juicy grapes. For a fabulous finish, go all in with a refreshing Grape Tart with Lemon Cream for dessert. Using a store-bought, prebaked tart shell or graham cracker crust makes this an easy, no-bake confection.

California grapes are a versatile snack to have on hand throughout the summer as they are naturally healthy and hydrating. And emerging research suggests that the polyphenols found in grapes may help support skin health even during sun exposure.

Refrigerated or frozen, grapes make a delicious and cooling snack between meals. Pack washed grapes in a container or sealable bag to enjoy on a picnic, hike or day at the beach. Grapes can be stored unwashed in the refrigerator for up to two weeks; rinse immediately before eating or cooking and enjoy.

Indian-Spiced Chicken and Grape Kebabs

Prep time: 15 minutes plus 15 marinating; Cook time: 5 minutes

Yield: Makes 4 servings

Ingredients

Marinade

1/4 cup unsweetened, reduced-fat coconut milk

1 1/2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil

2 garlic cloves, finely chopped

1 teaspoon minced fresh ginger

1 teaspoon ground coriander

1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom

1/8 teaspoon cinnamon

Pinch of cayenne

2 large boneless skinless chicken breast halves, about 1 pound

2 dozen large red California grapes

2 large pinches salt (1/4 teaspoon)

1 tablespoon minced fresh chives or finely chopped fresh cilantro, for sprinkling

8 bamboo skewers, 8-inch length

Directions

Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes.

For the marinade: in a mixing bowl, whisk the coconut milk, oil, garlic, ginger, coriander, cumin, cardamom, cinnamon and cayenne. Set aside.

Cut the chicken breasts into 32 cubes, about 3/4-inch each; add to the marinade and mix well to coat. Let stand at room temperature for 15 minutes. Alternately thread 4 pieces of chicken and 3 grapes onto each of eight 8-inch bamboo skewers.

Grill skewers over high heat until the chicken is firm and cooked through, 3 to 5 minutes each side. Transfer skewers to plates or a platter and sprinkle with salt and fresh herbs.

Serving suggestions: Serve with steamed basmati rice or toasted naan flatbread.

Notes: To cook indoors, use the oven broiler. Line a shallow baking sheet with foil, shiny side down, and preheat the broiler. Broil the kebabs for 3 minutes, turn with tongs and broil about 3 minutes more, until chicken is firm and cooked through.

Nutritional analysis per serving: 220 Calories; Protein 23 g; Carbohydrate 22 g; Fat 4 g (16% Calories from Fat); Saturated Fat 1 g (4% Calories from Saturated Fat); Cholesterol 65 mg; Sodium 220 mg; Fiber 1 g.

Fresh Grape Tart with Lemon Cream

Prep time: 15 minutes plus chilling

Yield: Makes 10 servings

Ingredients

1 prebaked tart shell or graham cracker crust

4 ounces reduced-fat cream cheese (Neufchatel)

1/4 cup low-fat sour cream

2 tablespoons granulated sugar

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

About 3 cups California grapes, halved

Directions

In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream cheese, sour cream and 2 tablespoons sugar. Whisk in the lemon juice. Spread the cream cheese mixture over the tart base, leaving a 1/2-inch border. Arrange the grapes in concentric circles over the cream cheese mixture. Chill until ready to serve.

Nutritional analysis per serving: 250 Calories; Protein 3 g; Carbohydrate 32 g; Fat 12 g (43% Calories from Fat); Saturated Fat 7 g (25% Calories from Saturated Fat); Cholesterol 50 mg; Sodium 110 mg; Fiber 1 g.

2021-07-01T10:01:00

(BPT) – After over a year of staying home, people are eager to start exploring places both near and far again. Mother Nature offers ample opportunity for adventure, with outdoor recreation activities to suit every personality. Whether you’re planning a road trip across the country or opting for a local day trip, you can ensure you’re ready for a memorable experience outside by packing wisely.

Be proactive about sun protection

Few things are better than the smell of fresh air and the warm feeling of the sun on your skin. However, too much sun can cause sunburn, heat exhaustion or worse. No matter the outdoor activity, it’s important to take proper sun protection steps.

Start by dressing in light layers, which can not only help you stay comfortable as temperatures change throughout the day, but also serve as protection from the sun. Clothing made from cotton is a good option because it is lightweight and breathable. A hat that protects the eyes and face is a must-have, as well as UV-blocking sunglasses.

Of course, make sure to add sunscreen to your travel bag and reapply regularly throughout the day. The American Cancer Society recommends using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30 and reapplying it every two hours, or more frequently when swimming or sweating.

Stay fueled and hydrated

From the beach to the mountains and beyond, having wholesome snacks and drinks on hand helps maintain energy levels so you can fully enjoy any outdoor activity. Pack a reusable water bottle and make sure you have enough to stay hydrated in the summer sun. As for snacks, the best backpack options are easily portable, don’t require refrigeration and are full of protein and nutrients to keep you satisfied for long periods of time.

A good example is new Nature’s Heart Crunch nut cluster snacks, a delicious, no-sugar-added snack option featuring protein-rich nuts, seeds and beans, with three varieties offering 6 grams or more of protein per serving; bold spices bursting with flavor and health benefits; and functional superfoods, all slow-baked together in a sugar-free glaze. Each bag is easily packable and resealable, making them the ideal companion for outdoor activities, from hiking and camping to rock climbing and mountain biking. All flavors are non-GMO, Keto certified, certified vegan and gluten-free. Learn more at us.naturesheart.com.

“These superfood and nut cluster snacks feature a range of globally-inspired flavors to satisfy every craving,” said Nature’s Heart Co-Founder, David Bermeo. “For warm and spicy with a touch of sweet, try Golden Chai Pecan Crunch. For a fresh, bright and fruity flavor with a touch of Himalayan Pink Salt, the Blueberry Lemon Chia Crunch is sure to please. The Everything Bagel Cashew Crunch is a guilt-free way to enjoy the savory bagel taste you crave.”

Get the gear

Comfort is key to enjoying the great outdoors. If your exploration will get you up close to Mother Nature, pack clothing and accessories that are easy to wash if they get dirty. You’ll also need the right apparel, like proper footwear for all day play. Feet may get wet or sweaty, so consider socks made with moisture-wicking wool to avoid blisters.

Finally, the flora and fauna are some of the best parts of exploring the world around you, but keep in mind that includes bugs. Avoid wearing strong perfumes or heavily scented deodorants that may attract insects on adventure day and bring your preferred bug repellent in your bag to ward off bites.

2021-07-01T10:01:00

(BPT) – After a year like no other, everyone is seeking ways to celebrate the summer and enjoy those little things that make such a big difference. You don’t have to be a wine expert to know that the right wine or cocktail for the occasion can make any get-together truly outstanding. Whether you’re hanging out with friends around the grill or embarking on an epic road trip, here are tips for relearning how to enjoy the moment.

1. Stemware for everywhere

Or better yet — stemless wineglasses! Find unbreakable, shatterproof, insulated wineglasses online that are just perfect for your next patio party, beach day or glamping trip. There are plenty of choices for insulated tumblers and coolers to keep wine and other beverages chilled and safe, no matter where you go.

2. Choose wines that are bright, light and just right

Whether relaxing with friends on the beach or around your backyard fire pit, enjoy a light, refreshing white wine that’s fragrant, vibrantly fruity and crisp, like the 2020 Wairau River Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand. The vineyards are planted along the Wairau River’s edge, creating quality wines to help you enjoy the moment.

3. Keep cool

When you’re enjoying an outdoor get-together, you’ll want to prevent wine from getting too warm — even reds. One trick is to store wine bottles in a cooler or a bucket filled with ice, salt and water. The salt in the water helps bring the freezing point of water below 32 degrees Fahrenheit.

4. Inspire your inner mixologist

Did you know wines can be used to create refreshing summer drinks? Add seasonal fruit or herbs to transform a favorite wine into a cooling cocktail.

Create your own Moscato Moscow Mule with this easy recipe:

Ingredients

• 5 ounces Seven Daughters Moscato
• A few ounces club soda
• Lime
• Ginger ale

Instructions

Mix Seven Daughters Moscato and club soda.
Add squeeze of lime and top with ginger ale.
Garnish with lime wedge.
Makes 1 serving.

5. Rediscover wine country

When you’re itching to get away from it all, why not sip your way through a tasting flight at a winery? With over 11,000 wineries across the U.S., you have plenty to choose from. You can even find hidden gems in parts of well-known Napa, like the Maxville Winery in the Chiles Valley. This unique winery started as a summer camp, with its first grapevines planted back in 1974. Today, you can visit the winery and sample the Estate Maxville Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Sauvignon Blanc, Red Blend and Petite Sirah.

6. Get paid to make history with Federalist Wines’ “Cabinet of Summer”

The Federalist has opened applications for its first ever “Cabinet of Summer,” giving three lucky fans the opportunity to receive $10,000 to make history as “secretaries” of summer activities. Each winner will use their reward to master a chosen craft by having the biggest, boldest summer since 1776:

The Secretary of The Outdoors has a passion for adventure and enjoys hiking and camping. They’ll have the opportunity to explore National Parks or raft down America’s mighty rivers — enjoying their favorite Federalist wine along the way.

The Secretary of Athletics is an ultimate sports fan equally passionate about backyard whiffle ball as cheering their favorite pro team — with bonus points for bold game-day rituals involving wine and snacks. They’ll have a once-in-a-lifetime chance to visit historic baseball stadiums this summer.

Secretary of The Grill is the ultimate host, spatula in one hand, glass in the other. They could be a neighborhood grillmaster or top wine-pong player — and $10,000 can throw a heck of a barbecue.

Through July 6, apply at FederalistWines.com/CabinetOfSummer by sharing how you plan to make history if chosen as a Secretary of Summer. Propose how you would use the prize, including an example of your “epic summer itinerary,” plus a link to a photo/video on your Instagram page illustrating your content creation skills. To be eligible, fans must reside in the U.S. and be 25 years of age or older. Winners will be announced through The Federalist Wines’ Instagram page July 9. See FederalistWines.com/CabinetOfSummer for official rules and regulations.

All wines can be found nationwide and can be purchased at select retailers, on Wine.com and through Uncorked.com.

2021-07-01T08:01:01

(BPT) – Wondering how student loans help families cover the costs of higher education? Read on for answers to the most commonly asked questions about student loans, from what they can be used for to how to choose the right one for you.