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Are you a money whisperer? New study reveals 6 in 10 Americans don’t talk about money

2023-12-07T08:39:00

(BPT) – America, it’s time to have the money talk. According to research by Empower, a financial services company, 62% of people don’t talk about money. Mum’s the word with their family (63%), friends (75%) and even with their spouse/partner (46%), though millennials and Gen Z are twice as likely to say they’re an “open book” compared to older generations (28% versus 13%). Many people would rather discuss politics (43%) and death (32%) than their finances (24%).

It may be costing them their dreams. A majority of people believe more candid “money talks” have the power to change the world: 66% remark that open conversations can help people build generational wealth, improve the gender wage gap (62%) and over half say that money conversations could improve workplace transparency (56%).

Carol Waddell, president of Empower Personal Wealth, says, “Conversation is a currency on the pathway to financial security, and open discussions about money can have a truly transformative effect on society. Our study shows people believe that clarity about their financial picture, talking to an advisor and financial education are key to achieving financial success.”

1. Growing up without money conversations

Don’t talk about money: that’s the message half (52%) of Americans hear, learning it’s impolite to talk about finances (26%), and certainly not what you earn (35%). The taboo prevails for nearly two-thirds (60%) of people who don’t feel comfortable on the topic.

Americans recall stowing away coins in a piggy bank (41%) but say many practical financial lessons weren’t discussed — like the importance of having an emergency fund (31%), building good credit (30%), and managing debt (27%) — as kids or adults. This might explain why Americans tend to clam up when the conversation turns to money. While many received an allowance (36%), the majority (68%) were never taught how to manage a budget. Nearly a quarter of Gen Zers (23%) grew up in a household with a swear jar teaching about money and manners — yet 79% of all people say they never spoke about how much is “needed” to be financially secure.

One in 5 (18%) Americans surveyed say they were raised with a YOLO money motto: “You only live once, so don’t worry too much about finances.” Despite the saying, more than a third (37%) say they regularly worry. That’s even higher for Gen Z and millennials (51% and 49%) and women, who are considerably more stressed about their personal finances than men (42% versus 33%).

2. Talking about money at work

Figuring out personal finance is intimidating and overwhelming for half of Americans (48%), and when it comes to managing their money, 39% say they don’t know where to start, including 41% of women and 37% of men. Compare that with sky-high confidence managing money at work: 73% feel at ease overseeing company budgets and the majority say they clearly understand their employer’s finances and performance (70%).

Reassuringly, people have a strong grasp on employer benefits like the availability of their company’s 401(k) plan (80%) and say they know how their pay raises work (77%). Advocating for themselves is where it gets tricky. One-third (33%) of people don’t feel comfortable asking for an increase. Men feel more comfortable asking for a pay raise than women (74% versus 59%). Better market data on compensation could potentially boost negotiation confidence and nearly half (49%) of survey respondents (and a majority of millennials, 69%, and Gen Z, 71%) believe discussing salaries can lead to better career opportunities.

Americans say they avoid uncomfortable money talk at work (68%), and more than half (56%) wish discussing salaries wasn’t taboo. Do you know how much your co-workers make? Just 19% of respondents say they’ve asked. But the workplace isn’t the only area Americans are staying quiet. People haven’t asked their friends (68%) or family (60%) either. Women are less comfortable talking about money with co-workers than men (36% women versus 50% men).

That said, people may not be as shy as expected: 58% of millennials and 53% of Gen Z (and 34% of Americans overall), would share their salary information on their LinkedIn.

What’s it amount to? According to 62% of respondents, open money conversations could solve the gender wage gap. Americans say greater wage transparency would motivate employees to work harder (50%) and help avoid miscommunications (60%).

3. Speak with an expert.

More than three-quarters (77%) of Americans want to see society take on more “money talks” about ways to save for the future (41%), money mistakes they’ve made (36%) and basic financial literacy (34%). A quarter want more discussions about how to negotiate (26%) and pay for big expenses (24%). Even more open dialogue about the emotional aspects of money would be helpful for 20% of respondents.

Ultimately, people believe more open conversations about money can have a truly transformative effect on society: 66% think it can help more people achieve financial freedom.

So, how does America get there? Respondents agree that clarity about their financial picture (40%), talking to an advisor (36%), and financial education (34%) are key to achieving financial success.

“In these challenging times, staying tight-lipped about money is something people can no longer afford. As part of our mission to advance financial freedom for all, we’re here to help people speak up and take the next step for a brighter financial future,” says Waddell.

If conversation is a currency on the pathway to financial security, it’s time to start speaking up.

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How to Have a Happy & Gut-Healthy Holiday Season

2023-12-07T10:01:00

(BPT) – The holiday season is filled with sugar and spice and everything nice — like parties, beloved traditions, festive foods and time with loved ones. And while all of these are things to be enjoyed, they can also lead to gut health woes as your eating habits and routines are thrown a bit out of whack.

“Bloating and digestive discomfort are incredibly common, even outside of the holiday season,” says gut health expert and registered dietitian Kristie Leigh, Director of Health and Scientific Affairs at Danone North America. “In fact, about 50% of the Western population experiences issues like bloating, gas, rumbling or discomfort on a regular basis. With the uptick in indulgent foods, traveling and socializing that we see around the holidays, these issues can be exacerbated — which is the last thing you want when you’re trying to enjoy this happy time of year.”

Luckily, there are some simple things you can do to help keep your gut healthy and happy amid the festivities and beyond. Here are Leigh’s top five tips to help you enjoy the holiday season to its fullest, without letting uncomfortable bloating or gut issues put a damper on your celebrations:

1. Consume fermented foods. These include foods like yogurt, kombuchas, sauerkraut and home-pickled vegetables. Consuming these regularly as part of an overall gut-healthy eating pattern may help with the minor digestive issues that come with heavy holiday foods because they help support your gut health overall and on an ongoing basis. Not only has research linked fermented foods with an increase in the diversity of bacteria in your gut (an indication of good gut health), they’re also associated with benefits such as better blood pressure and blood sugar levels and lower levels of inflammation.

2. Consider probiotics that target bloating and digestive discomfort. While it’s a common misconception that all live and active cultures, like those you find in fermented foods, are probiotics, that isn’t necessarily the case. “To be considered a probiotic, a bacterial strain must be clinically studied and shown to have a specific benefit,” Leigh explains. “So, if your goal is to help manage bloating and minor digestive discomfort, you’ll want to look for probiotic products studied to provide that benefit.” One example is Activia probiotic yogurt, which contains billions of the probiotic strain Bifidobacterium animalis lactis DN-173 010/CNCM I-2494. Leigh typically recommends getting probiotics through food versus supplements because they give you an array of other valuable nutrients along with the beneficial bacteria and because they can help buffer stomach acids, increasing the chance that probiotics will survive to the intestine where they need to go.

3. Eat plenty of fiber-rich foods, like fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Fiber helps move things through your digestive tract, and a type of fiber called prebiotic fiber actually acts as food for the good bacteria in your gut. Prebiotic fiber is found naturally in foods like artichokes, asparagus, leeks, onions, garlic, chicory, bananas, berries, soybeans, legumes, oats, barley and wheat and is used in concentrated form to fortify some foods and beverages. Just note that, with any type of fiber, you’ll want to introduce it slowly over time if your digestive system isn’t used to it. Adding too much too quickly could lead to some abdominal discomfort, and as it stands, most Americans aren’t currently getting enough. Simple swaps and small additions to your diet can help reach your fiber goals, such as adding sliced banana and berries to your morning oatmeal or yogurt, swapping regular pasta for whole wheat or adding a side of edamame to your lunch or dinner.

4. Stay hydrated. Dehydration is one of the main contributors to constipation, something that’s all too common when we’re traveling, staying with family and friends or otherwise shifting our habits or routines. To make sure you’re drinking enough water every day, find little tricks that help you reach your hydration goals — like starting your day with a big glass of water before you do anything else, finding a reusable water bottle that you love and making sure you have it filled and with you throughout the day or getting a little fancy with some fruit infusions. “I like infusing my water with cranberries and mint or orange and rosemary around the holidays for some refreshing, festive flavor and a little extra fun,” says Leigh.

5. Prioritize self-care. This includes getting enough sleep, moving your body in ways you enjoy and taking some time for yourself to de-stress, all of which can help promote a healthier, happier gut. That’s because exercise helps keep your digestive system moving and has been linked to a more diverse gut microbiome, while stress and anxiety often worsen symptoms like bloating and digestive discomfort. “It’s easy to get so busy during the holiday season that we let a lot of our self-care go out the window,” says Leigh. “But to fully lean into the festivities and bring our best selves, it’s important to prioritize ourselves and our overall wellness.”

And when it comes to gut health, Leigh emphasizes, the key is to build these tips into your everyday life. “There isn’t a magic bullet for gut health or one food that will magically make bloating and digestive discomfort disappear,” she says. “It’s more about supporting your gut on a regular basis so that it’s better able to handle the occasional indulgence or shift in habits.”

So, as you’re gearing up for this year’s celebrations, remember the adage “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” and consider implementing these simple tips now to help promote a healthy gut and a happy holiday season!

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You Can Work from Home, You Can See a Doctor from Home…and Now You Can Participate in a Clinical Trial from Home

2023-12-05T23:01:00

(BPT) – Former U.S. Congressman Gregg Harper’s son, Livingston, has Fragile X Syndrome (FXS), a rare neurological disease often misdiagnosed as autism or attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). FXS affects 1 in 4,000 boys and 1 in 8,000 girls worldwide1 and is the most common inherited cause of autism and intellectual disability. At 34 years old, Livingston continues to wait for an FDA-approved therapy to treat his FXS symptoms.

Gregg laments the lack of clinical research when Livingston was first diagnosed at just four years old, “Thirty years ago, I don’t think many pediatricians knew what Fragile X Syndrome was, let alone how to test for it and diagnosis it. There were no clinical trials to even consider.”

He continues, “Today, pediatricians can conduct a simple genetic test for FXS and there are multiple clinical trials underway in hopes of introducing new, effective treatments for this genetic disorder. It’s so important for families to participate in these trials because they may open doors that help our entire FXS community.”

Gregg is also realistic about potential barriers to participation in clinical research for FXS families. Many people with FXS have behavioral symptoms and anxiety that can make trial visits challenging for their caregivers and the individual.

Gregg shares that when his son was young, his wife would take Livingston to speech and occupational therapy and other medical appointments, with his younger sister in tow. “The numerous doctors’ appointments and tests can disrupt the whole family.”

When Gregg learned about a new approach to clinical trials that has emerged allowing for at-home participation, he noted, “that would have been a game changer for our family!”

Science 37, a company that supports at-home clinical trials, keeps the patient at the center of its work by bringing clinical trials directly to them no matter where they live. This helps increase the diversity of trial participants and promotes inclusivity – so important to advancing scientific discovery.

Dr. David Kudrow is the medical director of neurology for the company. “With the Science 37 approach, we can reach patients across the US and not be limited in any way by geographic constraints,” he said. “With our model, you don’t need to sit in the same room as the patient. If an investigator is licensed in the state where the patient lives, we can conduct a study visit.”

Once a patient is screened and enrolled for a clinical trial using telemedicine – appointments by computer, tablet or smartphone – patients and families continue to participate via “virtual” visits.” Additionally, mobile nurses, who are trained and employed by Science 37, visit patients to check vital signs, collect bloodwork and perform other medical evaluations and tests, such as electrocardiograms (ECGs).

As Dr. Kudrow explains, “Children and young adults with FXS don’t have to live near a trial center and caregivers don’t have to miss work or travel with their child to various appointments. On top of that, they still have their entire care team outside of the clinical trial, whom they continue to see for regularly scheduled check-ups. The Science 37 team keeps their care team informed of the trial involvement and progress.”

Dr. Kudrow noted, “With Science 37’s approach and at-home clinical trials like the RECONNECT study, which is currently enrolling, we can reach into any community, support diversity, and go beyond geographic, conventional boundaries to deliver reliable data.”

He concluded: “This is a very special population – not just the kids, but the families. Some families have multiple children with FXS and would otherwise have to travel to a clinical trial site. With respect to convenience, what Science 37 has been able to provide is invaluable. We can go where the patients are.”

Added Gregg: “People should avail themselves of this unique opportunity. I’m excited about it and hope that families who are dealing with FXS realize that we must have participants in these trials to discover new treatments. I urge families to take this opportunity. It’s free, it’s easy and, at the end of the road, it may change lives.”

To learn more about FXS and the ongoing RECONNECT clinical trial of an investigational treatment, visit FragileXHelp.com for more information.

Content sponsored and provided by Harmony Biosciences/Zynerba Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Gregg Harper has partnered with Zynerba to increase awareness of FXS and highlight the vital role of clinical trials in discovering and studying new investigational treatments for rare diseases.

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  1. https://fragilex.org/understanding-fragile-x/fragile-x-101/

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How to enjoy getting ready for the holidays

2023-12-07T02:01:00

(BPT) – The season is full of activity, fun and festivities — but it can also be somewhat stressful, especially if you feel unprepared. To make your holiday season go more smoothly this year, do a little advance planning so that you can spend more time relaxing with family and friends.

Here are key tips to help give you the confidence to tackle all the merriment the holidays can bring.

1. Take a pantry inventory

Remember running out to the store for heavy whipping cream or more flour at the last minute last year? Reduce your stress by taking stock of your pantry for baking and cooking staples you know you’ll need, with your favorite recipes in hand. To make this easier, many online recipes also post a shopping list. If you’re hosting relatives in your home over the holidays, be sure to add extra amounts to everyday staples on your shopping list — especially necessities like milk, eggs, bread — and snacks!

And, just in case something falls through the cracks, have your favorite grocery delivery service bookmarked on your computer or tablet so that you can make last-minute orders.

2. Ensure you have the bakeware you need

There’s nothing like having your cake batter ready to go, then realizing you borrowed a pan last year — from a friend who’s out of town this year. Instead, make sure you’ve got everything you need to bake and roast all the sweet and savory recipes you and your family love. For example, with a GoodCook Ready 5 Piece Metal Bakeware Set you’ll have a 13″x9″ small cookie sheet, a 13″x9″ bake and roast pan, a 9″ round cake pan, an 8″x4″ medium loaf pan and 6-cup muffin tin.

All of these pans have a scratch-resistant and dishwasher-safe nonstick coating that provides excellent release, while also making clean-up quick and easy. They’re also metal spatula safe, so you can serve your baked goods right off the sheet. Best yet, they’re made with heavy-duty gauge steel to resist warping, so you’ll be able to use them for high-quality baking for years to come.

Find these items and more GoodCook kitchen essentials at Target.com.

3. Keep it simple

To make your holidays more fun and less frantic, simplify wherever possible. Fewer decorations, placed carefully, will make more of a visual statement than loads of ornaments, and will free up time to do other things. Focus your cleaning efforts on the rooms where you’ll be entertaining and consider blocking off less tidy areas with festive ribbons and funny signs saying things like “Santa’s Workshop — Do Not Enter.” And unless you have loads of extra time for experimentation, stick with tried-and-true recipes that you already know you can pull off beautifully.

4. Make a schedule, check it twice

If you’re planning a big party or hosting a sit-down dinner, write out a schedule starting with your planned food-serving time and work your way backward. This will help you remember when each dish needs to be put in the oven or started on your stovetop so everything is ready at about the same time. Make your life even easier by prepping as many ingredients or even full dishes a day or two ahead of time, if possible.

5. Enlist some elves

Friends and family members actually like to help, as long as they know what to do. Delegate a few specific tasks to others so you don’t feel like you have to do everything yourself.

Have a creative child? Let them make place cards or place mats with guests’ names on them. Musical relative? Let them create a holiday playlist. One of your friends an expert mixologist? Put them in charge of the beverages. Spreading the burden means spreading the joy — so everyone can enjoy the preparations together.

With an upbeat attitude — and some holiday music — while you’re setting up, you’re bound to have just as much fun getting ready as you will once your guests arrive. Prepping ahead of time will give you that much more confidence that your celebrations will be thoroughly enjoyed, by one and all.

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6 expert ways to nurture friendships during the holiday rush

2023-12-06T13:31:00

(BPT) – The holidays aren’t just a time to spend with family. They’re also a great opportunity to connect with friends. In fact, according to a recent Bumble For Friends survey*, over half (54%) of U.S. respondents actually prefer to spend the holidays with friends they consider ‘chosen family’ over their relatives.

However, hectic holiday schedules can make it challenging to nurture our friendships. To help you stay connected to your friends this holiday season, Danielle Bayard Jackson — Bumble For Friends’ resident friendship expert — offers her top six expert tips.

1. Be intentional with your time

The holiday season is jam-packed with “shoulds,” from attending parties to shopping for the perfect holiday gifts for loved ones. Instead of focusing on what you “should” do this holiday season, fill your calendar with activities that bring you joy and allow you to spend intentional, quality time with friends. No matter what you choose to do together, show your friends that you are deliberately carving out time in your busy schedule to be present with them.

2. Check in on your friends

The holidays tend to be an emotionally charged season. Checking in on your friends — even the “strong” ones — is a simple yet powerful way to show you care. Take time to compose a thoughtful text, a quick phone call or schedule a video chat. Ask about their holiday plans, share your own, and really take time to listen. During this busy season, knowing you care can make a world of difference to your friends.

3. Make a festive food or drink together

Nothing brings people together quite like a meal. Plan a virtual or in-person cooking or baking hang-out with your friends to prepare festive treats. Encourage everyone to share recipes and cooking tips while enjoying each other’s presence and the joy of the season. You can even turn this gathering into a dinner party, whether at your home or over video, so you can enjoy your culinary creations and catch up.

4. Mail a holiday care package

Surprise your friends with a thoughtful holiday care package! You can include some of their favorite treats, seasonal decorations, face masks, coffee beans or tea leaves and a handwritten note to tell them how much you appreciate their friendship. They’ll feel the holiday cheer and your love when they receive their curated care package.

5. Have a holiday movie marathon

A holiday movie marathon is a classic way to celebrate the season. Plan a movie night at your place or use a remote-watching service to watch simultaneously with loved ones all around the world. Make a list of your favorite holiday movies and choose new holiday releases to experience together. A movie party may be a simple activity, but it’s a fun and easy way to celebrate the season and create new memories together.

6. Create new holiday traditions

The holidays are built on traditions. This season, strengthen your bonds by creating new traditions with your friends. For example, you can establish a yearly ornament exchange, potluck or game night. You can even consider volunteering to give back to the community and celebrate the season’s spirit. These traditions can become cherished rituals your friends look forward to year after year.

Maintain and form new connections

While the holidays may be chaotic, it’s important to prioritize your friendships. Let these six tips inspire you to connect with friends even during the busiest season of the year.

If you’re looking to grow your friendship circle this holiday season and beyond: you’re not alone. In Bumble For Friends’ recent survey*, nearly half (49%) of U.S. respondents shared that they’re focusing on friendship instead of finding love this winter. Also, 57% said they’re looking for a new friend to join in on hobbies/activities in the new year.

To start finding friends in your area that share your interests, download Bumble For Friends and take advantage of its many new features, including a Plans option to organize and join IRL group meetups.

*Research was commissioned by Bumble and carried out online by Censuswide in September 2023 amongst a sample of more than 1,000 U.S. adults 18+.

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Walmart+ Hits a High Note with Members Looking to Sleigh the Season

2023-12-06T15:43:00

(BPT) – It’s the most wonderful time of the year, but dashing through the snow for parties, plays and presents may have you longing for a silent night. Now a Walmart+ membership is bringing joy to the world for the busiest of families this holiday season.

Helping people save money so they can live better is at the heart of everything Walmart does. Walmart+ is that mission, supercharged, with a series of benefits and offers that will have you singing its praises throughout the season — and beyond.

Fa-la-la-la-Free Delivery from your Store

Whether it’s groceries for a festive meal, a hostess gift for your holiday parties, or all the toys and goodies, you can get unlimited deliveries from the store to your door with $0 delivery fees, all at the same low prices you’ll find shopping in a Walmart store.

Holiday Classics Streaming with Paramount+

From swoon-worthy romcoms to children’s classics — even some jingle bell rock from everyone’s favorite Mean Girls, you can stream some of your season’s favorite flicks with a Paramount+ Essential plan subscription, included at no additional cost with your W+ membership.

The Gift of Member Savings on Fuel

Between traveling to see family and friends, attending parties and functions, cruising town to peep holiday lights or all the everyday shuttling you already do, the holidays may have you spending a lot of time behind the wheel. So the prettiest sight to see may be savings on fuel! Get 10 cents off per gallon at 14,000+ locations nationwide including Exxon, Mobil, Walmart and Murphy stations.

Walmart+ Travel, Santa Approved

Whether you’re traveling over the river or through the woods, Walmart+ members can book their getaways through WalmartPlusTravel.com and earn Walmart Cash. Walmart+ members will start earning rewards on bookings in the form of 5% Walmart Cash on all non-air travel — hotels, vacation rentals, car rentals and activities — and 2% Walmart Cash on air travel. A Walmart+ membership will also get you access to member-only travel deals, no sleigh required.

The Gift of Free Shipping with No Order Minimum

Even if you make a list and check it twice, it’s inevitable those last-minute gift needs will arise. Even small orders ship for free so you can choose from a huge assortment of eligible items and never pay a shipping fee, no matter who is on (or missing) from your list.

Early Access to the Hottest Deals

Members enjoy early access to the most sought-after products at events throughout the season. Oh what fun it is to have an edge on holiday gift giving that even the elves would envy.

Returns from Home

Baby, it’s cold outside, and no one wants to brave the elements for returns. For members, Walmart comes to you. No printing, no repackaging, no need to step foot outside your door. Just book your return in the Walmart app.

At just $98 a year, or $49 dollars annually for customers who qualify for government assistance benefits, a Walmart+ membership will have you rockin’ around the Christmas tree for the holidays and through the new year. You can sign up — or even gift a membership — at https://plus.walmart.com.

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How the popularity of concert tours creates economic opportunities for Hosts

2023-12-06T11:01:00

(BPT) – This past summer was a season of major concert tours, driven by renowned popstars and cultural icons like Queens Tay and Bey. From booming box office sales to sold-out arenas, 2023 summer concert tours inspired communities and boosted local economies across the globe.

For Airbnb hosts, the “shero” summer effect meant a boost in revenue. According to Airbnb, Hosts worldwide collectively generated $100 million over concert dates from Jan. 1 to June 30, 2023, including the day before each tour stop. Continuing concert tour trends could spell the perfect opportunity for Hosts to earn more in the coming year.

Global icons and their local impact

Across Europe and the U.S., Queen Tay and Bey’s concert tours ushered in hundreds of thousands of guest arrivals on the platform over the concert dates during the first half of this year. The megastars helped support local economies, and Airbnb Hosts experienced this boost firsthand.

Hosts in Europe earned more than $40 million and their U.S. counterparts earned over $62 million during the first half of this year. These earnings represent a 38% increase in collective Host earnings over concert dates from Jan. 1 to June 30, 2023, compared to the same dates from Jan. 1 to June 30, 2022.

These economic trends are likely to continue into 2024. The upcoming European leg of one of these stars’ tours prompted a remarkable surge in interest. Notably, there was a 1,000% spike in Airbnb searches based on the average increase in searches for concert tour cities from June 20 to June 26, 2023, compared with the week before the 2024 tour announcement.

Hosting fans, creating joy and increasing income

The shero summer doesn’t just mark a return to big events. The droves of fans flocking to these events show that people are excited to come together as a community to share their passion for music. With people feeling increasingly isolated and disconnected, Hosts on Airbnb are focusing on providing distinctive guest experiences to facilitate human connections, one superstar event at a time.

If you’re lucky enough to live in a Host city during the upcoming tour dates, there has never been a better time to join the growing community of Hosts on Airbnb. Based on the total earnings for new Hosts globally in 2022 who started hosting sometime between January and December 2022, new Hosts collectively earned over $5.5 billion in income from hosting on Airbnb. Also, many new Hosts are having great success securing bookings quickly. Half of the listings activated and booked in the third quarter of 2022 globally received their first booking within three days.

Becoming an Airbnb Host has never been easier. The introduction of Airbnb Setup connects new Hosts with Superhosts who can provide one-on-one guidance. The integrated platform also helps new hosts welcome an experienced guest for their first booking and receive specialized support from Airbnb Community Support agents in over 42 languages.

All Hosts also get even more AirCover, which provides top-to-bottom protection, guest identity verification, reservation screening and $3 million damage protection. Protection includes coverage for cars, boats, art and valuables.

Are you ready to become part of the collective joy of live entertainment and increase your own financial well-being? Visit Airbnb.com/Host to learn more about how you can become a Host.

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Brett Eldredge’s Top 10 Holiday Decor Picks

2023-12-06T12:47:00

(BPT) – This is it, folks. Platinum-selling recording artist Brett “Mr. Christmas” Eldredge has unwrapped his décor picks for the 2023 holiday season, and it might just be the best-looking list of all time.

The décor guide was released as part of Eldredge’s ongoing partnership with Lowe’s, which is also the official décor sponsor of his 2023 Glow LIVE holiday tour. The tour, based on his celebrated 2016 album of the same name, has grown into a beloved Christmas­time tradition across the country.

“This is my favorite time of the year, and I love that Lowe’s goes all out — because I do, too,” said Eldredge. “From the classic trees that I love to yard décor, matching garland and wreaths, and more, they’ve got all the festive finds to greet guests, inspire wonder or get in the spirit.”

1. For the New Homeowner

The first holiday in a new house often means starting from scratch, décor wise. This magical, yet classic Pre­Lit Fawn and Doe Pair will get any freshly minted homeowner off to a stunning start.

2. For the Outdoor Decorator

Whether they have a sweeping estate or a petite patio, this 9­ft Spruce Artificial Garland is beautiful for anyone who takes a festive pride in their home’s exterior.

3. For the Coziness Champ

Classic aesthetic meets comfy vibes with this chic French Blue Throw. It’s a wonderful gift for bookworms and movie buffs alike who prefer to snuggle up in style.

4. For the Practical One

This Outdoor Door Mat is sure to delight, being both undeniably charming and classy — with a fun twist.

5. For the Crowd Pleaser

Mantles are the focal point of a room and can be decorated for each and every season. This festive, charming deer is the perfect stunner to get holiday guests talking and bring in the holiday spirit!

6. For the Traditionalist

For those that find the holidays about shimmery perfection, this 48­in Artificial Wreath, crafted with mixed greenery, golden baubles and fairy lights, is ideal.

7. For the Hot Cocoa Enthusiast

Tasteful and playful, these Candy Cane colored mugs are perfect for the seasonal hot drink connoisseur with a soft spot for cute design. They can even be packed with hot chocolate supplies to create a charming cocoa kit!

8. For the Interior Remixer

If they love giving their indoor space a facelift from time to time, they’ll love these Gradient Tan Faux Sheepskin Throw Pillows. They’re deliciously soft, with a neutral color palette that complements just about everything.

9. For the Stocking Stuffer

Who doesn’t love opening a full stocking on Christmas morning? Make your stockings the star of the show with these Silver Stocking Hangers.

10. For the One Who Needs to Think Big

As for big spaces, this graceful 11-ft Pre-Lit Artificial Tree is the ultimate gift for someone who hasn’t figured out how to get the most out of their grand hall just yet. It’s 132 inches of splendor, sure to give even the most towering rooms the coziest Christmas glow.

Of course, the choices don’t stop at just these ten ideas. You can find all Eldredge’s décor picks, as well as gift picks for everyone on your list, on Lowes.com. With a list this good, you’re guaranteed to have the most magical home on the block.

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Controlling your journey with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) while overcoming inequity in IBD health care

2023-12-06T12:01:00

(BPT) – For those living with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)—like Crohn’s disease (CD) or ulcerative colitis (UC)—every day can feel like a struggle. From a wide variety of symptoms that can include weight loss and severe abdominal pain to fatigue and persistent diarrhea, IBD is truly a chronic illness that can impact many aspects of a person’s life.

This struggle is something that Brooke Abbott—a 40-year-old Californian and IBD patient advocate—can certainly relate to. After having her beautiful baby boy, she developed abscesses and extra-intestinal manifestations like joint pain, uveitis (light sensitivity), and hair loss, which she initially attributed to postpartum—before later learning these were all signs of UC. At her lowest point with the illness, she would experience extreme fatigue, rapid weight loss, urgency every time she ate, and bloody stools. This all changed in 2012, when she had her colon surgically removed, then had an ostomy bag placed for six months. Now, Brooke lives with a j-pouch (an internal pouch shaped out of the end of her small intestine), which combined with her previous surgery, has allowed her to live a healthier and happier day-to-day as related to UC symptoms.

The symptoms of her disease were not the only struggles that Brooke endured. Her healthcare journey was made even more challenging through disparities in care that are sometimes experienced by patients of color. She dealt with consistent doubt regarding her symptoms from doctors, some of whom went as far as to accuse her of drug seeking. Others told her she couldn’t have IBD if her parents were Black. To quote Brooke directly, she felt “gaslit,” as she was told her symptoms were psychosomatic (or physical symptoms that lack a medical explanation), with doctors not providing her with all treatment options as they thought her case was mild to moderate. Even when preparing for her colon removal, she was met with misinformation on the process and her fertility. In her words, all of these struggles led to her feeling like the illness was her own fault. It took her almost 12 years to find a care team that listened to her fully and addressed her symptoms.

“Dealing with a chronic illness can feel impossible some days, without adding in the layer of inequity, disparity, and racism I found myself combating day-to-day,” Brooke reflects. “Although every day was an uphill battle, with each attempt to advocate for my own health, my resolve got stronger and stronger. I learned to be a subject matter expert on myself and be my own biggest advocate.”

Unfortunately, Brooke is not alone in her experience. Between 1970 and 2010, IBD incidence rates rose 134% in communities of color, compared to only 39% in white IBD patients. Despite the disparity in those numbers, inequalities around access and quality of care remain. Her experience and the experiences of patients like her drove Brooke to become an advocate for equitable health care and addressing unconscious bias within the broader healthcare system. Brooke hopes that greater awareness of issues like these could lead more doctors to reflect on whether they’re operating from a position of unconscious bias or if they can do more to address bias within their healthcare systems.

“You are the person who knows you best—and that is the most crucial piece of the puzzle when it comes to managing your own health. Do your research, keep a journal of your symptoms, and never be afraid to advocate for yourself. I promise, there is hope on the other side of every challenging conversation.”

What does hope look like for Brooke? Today, she focuses on her physical and mental health, being a mother, and providing a voice to others—all things that led her to create her own social media platform, The Crazy Creole Mommy, which she uses to further her IBD advocacy. Additionally, she’s formed a nonprofit advocacy group to support moms living with or caring for people living with IBD called IBDMoms.* Through both initiatives, Brooke has been able to encourage, challenge, and support those living with IBD.

For those newly diagnosed with IBD or feeling alone in their IBD journey, Brooke has three key tips for how to feel settled and supported. First, learn as much as possible about the diagnosis, to help feel confident when speaking with healthcare teams. Second, be patient when finding the right treatment plan—the process can take time, but exploration is key in finding what works best. Finally, find community with others who understand and empathize with the IBD journey. Social media and online support groups can be great for creating meaningful connections with other patients.

“Finding your voice is vital when it comes to advocating for your own physical and mental health. By having patience, grace, and strength, I feel in control of my own journey with IBD—and I know others can too.”

Those living with CD or UC are encouraged to address all concerns with their healthcare providers and to join Brooke and other IBD advocates through IBD Social Circle, an online community sponsored by Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Inc., that is dedicated to supporting the IBD community. For additional patient and caregiver resources created by Color of Crohn’s and Chronic Illness (COCCI) with communities of color at the center, visit www.COCCI.org.

Sponsored by Janssen Biotech, Inc.

*Janssen Biotech, Inc., does not have control over the content or posts on IBD Moms or The Crazy Creole Mommy.

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Top 5 outdoor design trends for 2024

2023-12-05T20:01:00

(BPT) – With the new year just around the corner, you may be thinking ahead about home improvements you want to make in the coming year. Especially if you’d like to maximize your outdoor space, planning ahead is crucial. Imagining exactly how you want to use the area outside your home can help you make decisions for expanding your living space beyond its four walls — comfortably and beautifully.

To start your planning process, these 2024 design trends may influence your decision-making, along with tips and tools to help turn your outdoor living dreams into reality.

1. Unique usage of space

Due to higher interest rates and other factors, today’s homeowners are staying in their homes longer. As a result, homeowners are getting more creative around using their existing outdoor spaces, and are heavily investing in this part of their property. Instead of just an outdoor barbecue area where friends and family can hang out, outdoor spaces are fulfilling functions traditionally seen only indoors.

Beyond building entire outdoor kitchens, homeowners are creating outdoor office areas for remote work in the fresh air, studios for creative endeavors and areas suitable for meditation, yoga or other forms of exercise. The sky is the limit when it comes to your outdoor space. How about a gaming area or a movie theater? Imagine how you most want to spend your time outdoors, then see how you can make it happen.

2. A backyard retreat

Another result of today’s economic climate is that multigenerational homes are becoming more popular. And with more family members sharing a home, many may be seeking ways to create more private spaces for family to enjoy a little “me time.”

Outdoor spaces present a huge opportunity to create more breathing room and expand beyond the four walls of your home. Separating parts of your outdoor area by adding screen panels or shade structures can help invite solitude for individuals needing a little escape. You can even find ways to mask intrusive noise such as a water feature or wind chimes, which can make a world of difference for developing a peaceful outdoor oasis.

3. Eco-friendly attitudes

Although this is not a new trend, 2024 will see further expansion of environmentally friendly projects like pollinator gardens, stormwater captures, native planting, zero-scaping and using permeable pavers in outdoor spaces.

For example, Belgard’s permeable pavers, also known as permeable interlocking concrete pavements (PICP), are installed with layers of varying-sized stone or aggregate underneath that filter and direct stormwater to underground aquifers, mimicking the way natural land absorbs water. With permeable concrete pavers and permeable grass pavers, any rain falling on your patio, walkway or driveway seeps back into the ground, reducing the burden on storm drains.

The primary goal for all these approaches is to develop a more eco-friendly outdoor space requiring fewer resources — making it easier and more natural to maintain.

4. Natural tones and materials

The emphasis on the environment and incorporating nature into your outdoor space also inspires design choices based on colors found in nature, and materials with the look and feel of organic elements.

Staying within this aesthetic, you can find hardscaping options ranging from retaining wall systems, outdoor kitchens, fire pits and pavers for patios, walkways and driveways from Belgard offering a color palette ranging from neutrals to cool and warm tones — but always appearing natural and pleasing to the eye.

5. Gardens galore

One of the biggest shifts across the country is a renewed interest in gardening and growing your own food. From those who want to live more healthful, balanced lives to foodies who seek to use the freshest produce in their culinary creations, gardening is the answer — and a fun, easy way to spend time outside. This trend also brings generations together, from those who’ve been gardening for decades to enthusiastic new gardeners of Gen Z.

Another great thing about gardening is that you don’t need much square footage to get started. Container gardens, raised beds and vertical gardening are all ways to explore growing your own fruits, vegetables and herbs.

Ready to get inspired? Learn about all the possibilities for your outdoor space at Belgard.com.

For additional help envisioning your outdoor space, Belgard Rooms Planner gives contractors and homeowners a templated outdoor design plan that can be further customized to meet every homeowner’s needs. Even better, Belgard Rooms provides an augmented reality (AR) feature, letting you select AR plans and drop them into your outdoor space to view, walk through and scale templated outdoor rooms, bringing them to life in your own backyard. AR Rooms makes it easy for you to test a variety of rooms, features and styles in your outdoor space, also making it easier to communicate your vision with your contractor. Currently, 38 AR Rooms can be viewed on any device that will help you design your dream space in 2024.