Category: Brandpoint Lifestyle

2023-04-17T08:01:00

(BPT) – April 22-30 is National Parks Week, the perfect time to get out or start planning a trip to one of the 424 national park sites across the United States. The National Park System dates back to 1916 and encompasses 85 million acres of land across all 50 states. You can easily find a park nearby or look for one to travel to and enjoy the majesty of nature.

Not sure where to start? Check out these five books that will inspire you to head out on your next park adventure:

1. 100 Trails, 5,000 Ideas

Are you a seasoned camper and hiker or a novice planning a future outdoor adventure? Pick up a copy of 100 Trails, 5,000 Ideas, the authoritative travel guide to the best hiking treks across the U.S. and Canada, with practical planning advice for when to go and what to expect.

Check out tips for wildlife spotting, scenic picnic locales, routes with a view, campsites and off-trail activities nearby. Plus, you’ll discover alternative routes to extend your trek or tackle shorter lengths of some of the country’s most iconic journeys, like the Appalachian Trail.

2. National Geographic Complete National Parks of the United States, 3rd Edition

Do you want to plan a trip to one of America’s famous national parks? Let National Geographic’s third edition of Complete National Parks of the United States inspire you to visit more than 400 state parks, monuments, battlefields, historic sites, scenic trails, recreation areas and national seashores across the country.

This 544-page reference book is filled with full-color photos, detailed maps, historical information and practical facts on every single landmark in the national parks. You can use this guide to decide when you’ll start your adventure and find the best activities at each location.

3. National Parks Day Hikes

You don’t have to plan a long vacation to enjoy the outdoors. Day trips can be just as valuable and are often more accessible for busy would-be adventurers. Using National Geographic’s Day Hikes Topographic Maps, you can select from a diverse collection of day trails in the top national parks of the U.S.

Each booklet is designed so you can quickly and conveniently find the information needed for efficient and easy trail discovery and navigation, including difficulty rating, distance and elevation gain. Maps are waterproof and tear-resistant, so you can use them again and again for years to come.

4. National Geographic Atlas of the National Parks

Former park ranger and author Jon Waterman takes readers on a journey through the country’s scenic reserves and highlights the extraordinary features of each location in National Geographic Atlas of the National Parks. This stunning atlas showcases America’s spectacular park system from coast to coast, richly illustrated with an inspiring and informative collection of maps, graphics and photographs.

In each entry, you’ll learn about the magnificent landmarks, thriving ecosystems, representative wildlife, fascinating histories and more in our beloved national parks. Take a look and start dreaming about experiencing the white sand beaches of Dry Tortugas or the snowy peaks of Denali for yourself.

5. National Geographic Complete Birds of North America, 3rd Edition

Birders will enjoy the third edition of National Geographic Complete Birds of North America, the most up-to-date and comprehensive source of knowledge on North American bird identification, distribution, behavior, habitat and conservation concerns available today. Birdwatchers can browse this 752-page guide, which includes every observable bird in the continental U.S. and Canada — over 1,000 species.

The book includes 850 range maps, accounts of each species’ calls and songs, breeding behaviors, molting patterns and more. Readers will also enjoy 4,000 pieces of annotated art to learn about and appreciate birds near and far.

Buy one or all five of these books and start exploring the national parks today. These educational and inspiring books from Disney Publishing Worldwide and National Geographic Books are available wherever books are sold.

2023-04-13T12:01:00

(BPT) – April signals the arrival of spring and welcomes the beginning of Earth Month, a time when many people may be searching for simple but impactful ways to live more sustainably. But, living more consciously doesn’t mean steering away from life’s little luxuries, like enjoying a glass of great wine. In fact, the wine industry is becoming a fast-growing change-maker in sustainable agriculture.

“As farmers, we can be part of the problem or part of the solution around climate change,” says Joseph Brinkley, director of regenerative farming for Bonterra Organic Estates, the country’s largest Regenerative Organic Certified winery. “It’s important that our industry finds ways to mitigate the climate crisis and cultivate a better future for our planet.”

So, when it comes to wine, how do you know what is actually making a difference and what is simply a clever, but unsubstantiated, claim? Here are four straightforward tips to choose a wine that is actually eco-friendly and will make you feel proud to purchase in April and beyond.

1. Know your labels

The most popular certification that many notice is the USDA Organic Seal, which indicates that 95% or more of the ingredients are certified organic with no GMOs. However, there is a new certification, Regenerative Organic Certified. This distinction goes beyond the traditional organic standards by emphasizing the regeneration of soil health, animal welfare and social fairness.

“Certifications are critical to maintaining the integrity of any environmental claim, since each certification a winery obtains requires the company to follow stringent guidelines,” says Brinkley. “Otherwise, anyone can claim anything on a label, but it’s the vetted certification process that proves the company is actually making a difference and holding itself accountable.”

2. Find diamonds in the rough

Napa and Sonoma have long been regarded as the wine-growing epicenters, but it also means that land and soil has been turned over and processed significantly over the last several decades. Explore wines from lesser-known locations such as Mendocino County, California, and Texas Hill Country.

3. Trust the experts

Experience and purpose is everything, and that’s why consumers should look for wine that has been in the sustainability space since their first bottle.

“Creating a product that’s sustainably focused should be more than just a trend,” says Brinkley. “As grape-growers and winemakers, we have a responsibility to forge a path to a better future through the way we grow and produce. At Bonterra, we have been producing organic wine for more than 30 years and still remain the No. 1 organic winery in the country today.”

4. Taste the difference

It’s not always about sensing the notes of strawberry or aged oak or tannins, but taste should be about individual preferences and enjoyment. There’s no right way to enjoy a glass of wine. Instead, wine that is produced organically, intentionally and sustainably should have a taste that keeps you coming back for more simply because you like it.

2023-04-13T07:01:00

(BPT) – Have you experienced a virtual health visit? We know that people enjoy the convenience and potential cost-savings of virtual health because it often eliminates the need to travel, find childcare and take time off work. However, there are challenges standing in the way of a seamless, consistent, high-quality and frictionless experience that’s accessible for all.

In Deloitte’s Center for Health Solutions report, “Tapping Virtual Health’s Full Potential”, findings showed that quality of internet service was associated with use of virtual health visits. Nearly half of people surveyed (46%) with very good/reliable internet service had a virtual visit in the last 12 months, compared with 31% of those with very poor/unreliable internet service. Although most people surveyed (81%) have broadband access, only half (52%) describe it as reliable and meeting their needs. Not surprisingly, 63% of those surveyed with an annual household income greater than $100,000 have reliable internet, compared with 46% of those making less than $50,000.

“Our research shows that access to reliable broadband service is key to people’s ability to try a virtual visit, and it also contributes to their satisfaction with the experience,” said Bill Fera, MD, principal and virtual health practice leader, Deloitte Consulting LLP. “Virtual health can complement in-person care, and it has the potential to reach patient populations that are underserved and under-resourced. If we empower people with the technology and information on how to best use virtual care options, and collaborate at the community level, virtual health can extend important services, like mental health, in ways that meet people where they are and feel most comfortable.”

When Deloitte surveyed physicians about virtual health’s effect on access to care for underserved groups, more physicians said virtual health has increased access (39%) than decreased (7%), while 12% said it had no effect and 25% said the effects were mixed. While these findings are encouraging, to help ensure that virtual health isn’t creating a digital divide, health care organizations should consider collaborating with local governments, utility providers and businesses in their communities (such as shopping centers, schools, shelters, libraries and pharmacies) to provide free Wi-Fi and digital devices that can be used to enable virtual health services.

For people interested in virtual health, here are five questions to ask your health care provider:

1. Do you offer virtual visits and how can I schedule one with my physician?
2. Do you have services available to help me learn how to use a portal or how to interact with my physician in a virtual setting so that I can feel comfortable?
3. What do I need to do to prepare for a virtual health visit?
4. Can a caregiver join my virtual health visit?
5. If my insurance doesn’t cover a virtual visit, how much will it cost me out of pocket?

While virtual health is not a substitute for how care has traditionally been delivered, it can offer new ways of receiving care that were not possible in the past. When done well, virtual health has the potential to provide care to more people in a convenient, comfortable setting that can potentially save costs, be a component of the continuum of care, reduce stigma and improve health.

To learn more about the survey findings, read Deloitte’s report titled, “Tapping Virtual Health’s Full Potential.”

2023-04-12T11:01:00

(BPT) – In celebration of Couple Appreciation Month, K-Y, a leader in sexual well-being, is on a mission to help redefine the monotony of date night and ignite intimate time among couples.

Long-term couples know that even if you have regular one-on-one time, it can be easy to fall into the same routine, and excitement can dwindle. Keep date night fun and fresh by getting creative and spicing things up. To highlight how to bring more intimacy to your life through date night, here are some creative date night ideas. It’s time to take your next date from typical to titillating!

“Date nights (my personal favorite is dinner and dancing) enhance emotional closeness and contribute to feelings of fun and playfulness, key elements of sexual desire and satisfaction,” said Dr. Emily Jamea, Sex and Relationship Expert. “You’ll want to keep intimacy going long after the date, so make sure to stock up on a good lube like K-Y!”

1. Drum up Desire at Dinner

A dinner out is the go-to date night for most couples — but why not add some desire to it? Take it to the next level by speaking to each other using sexual innuendos. Order suggestive food to use as a prop, compliment each other’s outfits and emphasize how you can’t wait to see what’s underneath.

No matter what you say, the goal is to show how much you desire each other. Food shouldn’t be the only spice during dinner!

2. Make Date Night a Little Daring

Nothing adds sparks to your relationship quite like trying something new and exciting. Get out of your comfort zone by creating a list of activities that you each want to do together. It can be something as simple as going ice skating or to a theme park — or it can be something more adventurous such as skydiving or bungee jumping.

Climaxes are not just for the bedroom. Take the intensity to a new level with a date night that sparks romance in an exciting way!

3. Get Comfortable During a Staycation

You may not always have time for a long, romantic vacation, but a quick getaway can feel just as luxurious and help you reconnect with your partner. Book a night or two at a bed-and-breakfast where you can enjoy the comfort of being together in an intimate and relaxing setting.

Schedule a couples massage or enjoy doing your favorite activity together in a new and romantic place. As you leave the stressors of everyday life at home, you can truly focus on getting comfortable and enjoying the simple joy and pleasure of being intimate with your loved one.

4. Pleasure Your Senses

If a staycation or skydiving date isn’t for you, adding fun twists to typical date night routines may be just what you need. Try preparing a meal at home with a blindfold on! Take turns being blindfolded and create a meal with the direction of the one who is not blindfolded. Be prepared to make a mess and have some laughs!

Take this date to the next level by eating your meal together blindfolded. This will allow you to focus on the tastes and conversation without the distractions that often get in the way.

5. An Arousal IOU

Nothing says “I am focused on your needs” more than a simple IOU card. Choose your partner’s favorite treat, whether it’s a massage, candle lit bubble bath or moonlit stroll, and give them a card that they can “cash in” at any point for some romantic time — their way.

They can return the favor in the future, giving you both something to look forward to on another date night. This way, you can each take turns focusing on your partner’s pleasure.

Keeping the spark alive doesn’t happen by accident. Reigniting date night will do just the trick! Try any of these date ideas during Couple Appreciation Month and keep it going all year long. You can learn more at K-Y.com.

2023-04-12T11:01:00

(BPT) – When the Morrells needed to upgrade to a larger home in Santa Clarita, California, a year ago to accommodate a growing multi-generational family, surprises sprung up in the property with a number of failing systems. The home inspection didn’t reveal certain trouble spots that would cost thousands of dollars in repairs later. However, after owning multiple homes before, the Morrells understood that their homeowners insurance and warranties could help defray many — though not all — of these costs, and they were prepared to complete routine maintenance throughout their home to prevent damages.

Real estate industry sources report that home purchases are rising once again, despite record high prices and interest rates, and many of these new homeowners might be strapped for cash should an unforeseen issue occur. As a homeowner, you need to make time for routine maintenance to keep your home in good condition. Regular maintenance can help reduce the possibility of costly and time-consuming repairs.

“We’re taught to have our vehicle’s motor oil changed every few thousand miles to keep it in good running condition and a home is no different in that it needs regular attention too,” said Bonnie Lee, Mercury Insurance Vice President of Property Claims. “Putting off tasks until something breaks or needs repair can lead to much larger and more expensive headaches.”

Four areas homeowners should check regularly to keep it safe include:

TLC for the airways. Heating, ventilating and air conditioning (HVAC) is the system that keeps the temperature inside a home comfortable. In order to not only keep running costs low but also extend the life of it, owners need to give it love and attention. A small leak or failure to replace an air filter could cause your annual energy bill to skyrocket.

A dirty air filter is the most common cause of problems for an HVAC system. When the air filter is dirty, the blower has to work harder to force air through the debris, increasing the system’s energy consumption or overworking its capabilities. Regularly checking, cleaning and replacing your filters can help prevent this problem.

“The last thing a homeowner wants to deal with is an unexpected cost, especially one that can be as expensive as having to replace a furnace or air conditioner,” said Lee. “If you’re concerned about having to come up with the funds to replace a system that fails before reaching the end of its life expectancy, there are insurance coverages like Mercury’s home systems protection that cost only a few dollars each month to replace these thousands of dollars worth of expenditures.” Home systems protection excludes failures that are a result of normal wear and tear, but it covers unexpected mechanical and electrical breakdowns.

Look up at what protects you. The first step of roof inspection begins inside the home. Look for damp spots or water stains on the ceiling or for cracked plaster along the wall as these can be signs of water damage. During dry, warm months, conduct a visual examination of your roof’s exterior for any cracked or missing shingles. Notice if you have to trim back tree branches that make contact with the roof as they can cause damage. If you suspect it needs attention, contact an experienced roofer who can perform a thorough inspection with drones and provide a condition report, like Mercury’s partnership with Roof Rx. Remember, roof repairs required because of damage caused by severe weather are covered by your insurance. Roof repairs that are necessary due to lack of maintenance, age, or standard wear and tear are not.

Clean the gutters. Gutters are necessary to direct water away from your home’s foundation. Their exposure to the elements means that they need to be cleaned and inspected regularly. While cleaning out dirt and leaves, make sure the gutters are securely attached to your house. The weight of heavy snowfall, rain and dirt can cause gutters to loosen and pull away from the home.

“Our data shows that routine maintenance means lower homeowner costs by addressing small issues before they become problematic,” said Lee.

Preparing for extreme weather. What might’ve been considered once-in-a-lifetime extreme weather events in the past are now becoming more frequent. Natural weather events such as flooding cause billions of dollars in property damage every year. Homeowners must be aware of all perils that can impact their homes as well as the type of coverage needed. Damages caused by an earthquake or storm flooding, for example, are not covered by a standard homeowners policy. Homeowners may want to consider purchasing policies or endorsements specifically designed to cover such perils.

A few minutes a day to inspect and take care of your home can make a difference. Like the Morrells, make sure to review what policy coverages and home warranties are in place before a disaster strikes and take care of routine maintenance before it becomes a bigger problem. This will help you keep a happy and safe home.

2023-04-12T10:01:00

(BPT) – The province of Quebec has the worst roads in North America, according to voters in a month-long campaign from Nokian Tyres.

The home of poutine is also home to the continent’s worst potholes, beating Colorado in the finals of a bracket-style competition intended to educate drivers about Nokian Tyres’ Pothole Protection program, which the company offers with select all-season and all-terrain tires.

Quebec defends the dubious honor won by Montreal during the first iteration of Nokian Tyres’ Worst Roads in North America competition in 2021. In addition to winning a collection of daily polls on Nokian Tyres’ Instagram, Facebook and Twitter channels, Quebec received an overwhelming number of entries at NokianTires.com/Potholes, where drivers were invited to make their case and learn how to choose tires that safeguard against rough roads.

Those voters are not alone in their assessment of Quebec’s road woes. A 2021 study by the Canadian Automobile Association (CAA) claimed that Quebec drivers spent an average of $258 per year on maintenance costs caused by poor roads, the most in Canada and more than double the national average.

“We appreciate the overwhelming response we received from drivers in Quebec and across the United States and Canada during our Worst Roads campaign,” said Nokian Tyres Senior Manager of Communications Wes Boling. “It’s clear that drivers in North America crave tires that keep them safe, especially this time of year when unpredictable weather conditions create potholes and other road issues.”

Nokian Tyres offers a Pothole Protection program with several of its all-season and all-terrain tires, including the Nokian Tyres One passenger tire and the all-terrain Nokian Tyres Outpost Family. If a tire suffers damage from a pothole or other road hazard, Nokian Tyres will replace it for free.*

Last week the company launched its newest all-terrain tire reinforced with Pothole Protection, the Nokian Tyres Outpost nAT, which is exclusively made and sold in North America.

Nokian Tyres makes all-season and all-terrain tires at its award-winning factory in Dayton, Tennessee. The company is doubling production at the factory, which is one of the most advanced, sustainable tire production facilities in the world.

To learn more about Nokian Tyres’ Pothole Protection program, visit NokianTires.com/Potholes.

*Terms and conditions apply

2023-04-11T23:01:00

(BPT) – Health and wellness are meaningful to you, so you strive to make it a priority in your life. It’s also important to you to give back and you are looking for ways to do something truly meaningful for others. One activity that reflects all these values and makes a real difference is walking to raise funds for disease research, such as understanding the prototypical autoimmune disease lupus.

Whether you or someone you care about is living with lupus or not, you can make a positive contribution to the search for a cure, while also enjoying the benefits of a healthful walk and the empowering feeling that you are part of a larger community working toward a common purpose.

What is lupus?

According to the Lupus Research Alliance (LRA), lupus is a serious and chronic autoimmune disease, in which a person’s immune system attacks healthy cells by mistake. Lupus is a complex disease that is often debilitating. There is no cure and few treatment options, none of which work for everyone.

Lupus affects everyone differently, with varying symptoms that can make it difficult to diagnose. Some of the most common symptoms of lupus include extreme fatigue, joint pain, skin rashes and fevers. It disproportionately affects women, especially women of color, and is typically diagnosed in the prime of their lives.

How you can help

“Walk with Us to Cure Lupus” is the LRA’s signature national fundraising program, from which 100% of donations go to lupus research programs because the LRA Board of Directors funds all administrative and fundraising costs. Participating in the Walk, whether alone or as part of a group, is a fun way to support a worthwhile cause: helping to fund important research to develop personalized treatments, and ultimately, a cure for lupus.

What began with the very first walk in Washington, D.C., in 2002 has grown to now unite tens of thousands of people across the country, who together have raised nearly $45 million for lupus research. Each walk is motivated by one goal: to let people living with lupus know there is an entire community behind them, with everyone in it working toward finding a cure.

People living with lupus or who have loved ones with lupus find these walks especially meaningful:

• “I was diagnosed with lupus at the age of 9 and since then I have been participating with my family and friends at the Lupus Research Alliance Walk with Us to Cure Lupus,” said Miah SantaCruz, New Jersey
• “I chose the LRA because of the research they are doing to help fight back against lupus. I can see the wins each time a new grant is approved and they uncover more about this disease,” said Shelley Shuttlesworth, Texas
• “I walk for lupus every year in hopes of finding a cure for the disease that has affected my life,” said Ashley Saari, Florida

LRA’s community has shown its strong, ongoing commitment to one goal: supporting lupus research that will unravel the complexity of this debilitating disease so a treatment and cure can be targeted to each person.

Take action

You can join one of LRA’s in-person events or participate in this year’s virtual walk. Either way, you’ll unite with others in one common goal: to help people with lupus in their treatment journey and ultimately find a cure.

Ready to make a difference? Visit support.lupusresearch.org to register for a walk near you and start fundraising.

2023-04-11T11:55:00

(BPT) – Even though it’s a fan favorite, pasta has gotten a bad rap over the years. More than 25% of Americans are gluten-free, according to a study published by the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, which takes pasta night off the menu for many people. Now, thanks to a variety of delicious and nutritious gluten-free pasta alternatives, you can bring back pasta night no matter your preferences or dietary needs.

“There’s something so delicious and comforting about pasta. For people who follow a gluten-free diet or have other nutritional requirements, giving up pasta night can feel like a big sacrifice,” said registered dietitian, health nutrition expert and mom, Lauren Manaker. “Fortunately, there are now many gluten-free alternatives that offer something delicious for everyone, so pasta night is back!”

Lauren and her family put a variety of gluten-free pastas to the test and here are her insights and recommendations:

Kevin’s Natural Foods Cauliflower Pasta Kit

Cauliflower is having a serious moment. You find it everywhere, even mimicking pizza crust. Not only is it versatile and delicious, it’s full of nutrients like vitamins C and K, and is also a good source of folate. Plus now, you can enjoy cauliflower as the base for delicious, gluten-free pasta meal.

Pros: This one came the closest to tasting like traditional wheat pasta. Paleo-certified and packs in 1.5 servings of veggies per package. (Hello hidden veggies!) And bonus, this one comes with meat and sauce, making it the only option on this list that’s available as a complete meal.

Cons: Limited noodle options. Right now Kevin’s only offers penne and an egg noodle substitute in its delicious Beef Stroganoff option.

Banza Chickpea Pasta

Pros: Chickpeas — also known as garbanzo beans — are tiny nutritional powerhouses that pack a mighty punch of nutrients, including fiber, potassium and B vitamins. Rich in plant-based protein and fiber, this pasta has serious staying powers, helping you avoid those annoying hunger pangs that can strike between meals.

Cons: Chickpea pasta is a little chewier than traditional pasta and might be tough to pass by the family as the real thing. Plus, it can be a little tricky to cook. It falls apart easily if cooked too long. It’s also still considerably high in carbs and has been known to cause tummy troubles in some people.

Konjac Miracle Noodles

Pros: Made with flour from the Konjac plant, this noodle option is super low carb and low calorie. These look like rice noodles and work well in Asian style dishes.

Cons: The texture of these noodles can be a little off-putting, so it’s important to cook them to perfection. Boil too little and they will be chewy; boil too long and they’ll be a sloppy, watery mess. They aren’t going to replace your favorite spaghetti by a long shot, but for dishes that would normally use rice noodles, they can be a healthy alternative.

The Winner:

Kevin’s Natural Food Cauliflower Pasta Kits! Want a one-pan, complete meal that is a total dupe for traditional pasta? Want to skip the prep and bypass the worry you’re going to cook things up correctly? If you want to simplify pasta night while staying gluten-free, try paleo-certified cauliflower pasta meal kits from Kevin’s. Everything is made with clean ingredients and is ready in less than five minutes by heating in the microwave or on the stovetop. Available in five varieties, Manaker’s personal favorite was the Chicken Penne Alla Vodka. You can find them at Sprouts, Target and KevinsNaturalFoods.com.

2023-04-11T12:01:00

(BPT) – Flying with kids can be a stressful undertaking, even for the most seasoned travelers. Preparing for a flight with a baby or toddler can present all sorts of questions: Which seats should you reserve? Which toys should you bring to entertain your little one during the long hours of travel time? What kind of snacks should you pack? And how will you manage to get through the security checkpoint with your sanity intact?

Carter’s, the most trusted brand of apparel exclusively for babies and young children, understands how parents feel and has created a foolproof list for traveling with young children.

1. Carefully consider flight options. Pay attention to the schedule of the flight. Select flights that work with your little one’s daily routine. Tip: Morning flights are often the best choice when traveling with a toddler on a plane.

2. Pick the right seats. If you’re purchasing a seat for your child, remember that most airlines allow children to be seated next to an accompanying adult free of charge. Sitting near the rear of the plane will give you easier access to the bathrooms and, if you can snag seats in the front row, you’ll have more legroom, just not easy access to your carry-on items in bulkhead seats.

3. Pack the essentials in your carry-on. In addition to what’s packed in your personal item, pack your carry-on (a comfortable backpack diaper bag works great!) with other items you’ll need easy access to, such as:

• Infant supplies like diapers and wipes, bottles and formula. Tip: Purchase at least two water bottles for your carry-on once you get through security.
• Sippy cups and novelty snacks for your toddler. Food storage containers with twist and lock lids are very handy for snacks on a plane.
• Your child’s lovey, blanket or favorite toy. Soft books or activity toys are a good choice for babies and toddlers, while coloring books are great options for preschoolers or older children. Tip: Buy a new toy to surprise your child with on the plane.
• A change of clothes for you and your child, toothbrushes, travel-sized toothpaste and pajamas. Don’t underestimate the power of packing clothing sets for boys and girls. They’re easy to throw in your bag without having to think about it. And don’t forget socks and underwear! These are among some of the most forgotten travel items.

4. Wait until the last minute to board. Rather than being cooped up on the plane while you wait for everyone else to make their way on board, you can let your kids get their wiggles out in the space and comfort of the airport terminal. If you’re flying with a partner or other adult, let them board ahead of you with the carry-on luggage while you hang back with the kids to ensure your bags have a place on board.

5. Enter Carter’s Airplane Apology Agreement.

While other passengers are generally kind and patient, it’s easy to stress about your child fussing and disrupting others. To help avoid judgmental looks from fellow travelers, enter Carter’s Airplane Apology Agreement, a contract and cash package that parents can pass out on their next flight.

Carter’s hopes that equipping parents with the Airplane Apology Agreement will bring some relief and levity to what is generally a stressful experience.

Parents can take advantage of the Airplane Apology Agreement by entering the giveaway online at www.carters.com/airplaneapology from April 11 to April 17. Five families will win a bundle that includes an Airplane Apology Agreement and 15 envelopes each containing $100 cash cards for parents to pass out to neighboring passengers. Winners will also receive a bonus bodysuit for baby to wear on the plane. To enter, visit www.carters.com/airplaneapology.

2023-04-11T09:01:00

(BPT) – The kitchen isn’t just a space for cooking. It’s also a space to create memories and make decisions that can positively impact your health. Whether you are a home cook or a health-conscious eater, having easy-to-follow cookbooks and recipes is a must. Check out these five books that can help you on your journey to better eating and having fun along the way!

1. The Plant Love Kitchen

Eating with a plant slant and focusing on whole foods — vegetables, fruits, whole grains, legumes and nuts — are key to a longer, healthier life. If you want to switch to a plant-forward diet that can improve your health, check out this easy-to-use guide by dietitian, nutritionist and food blogger Marisa Moore, R.D.N., L.D. Backed by the latest nutritional science, these 75 delicious recipes can help you reach your wellness goals.

2. Gordon Ramsay’s Uncharted

If you’ve watched the National Geographic television series Gordon Ramsay: Uncharted, you’ve seen chef Gordon Ramsay travel to some of the most remote locations on Earth in search of culinary inspiration. In this beautifully illustrated book, you can experience his journey through 60 mouthwatering recipes that reveal insights into the cultures and foodways of destinations from Peru to Louisiana.

3. The Official Disney Parks Cookbook

Bring the magic of Disney Parks and Resorts straight to your kitchen! This book of official Disney recipes is the perfect ingredient for sharing similar food, love and laughter with friends and family at home. Written by Pam Brandon, who has worked closely with the Disney chefs for 25 years, this cookbook can help you serve up 101 tried-and-true recipes, tested by real home chefs that are just right for prepping on a smaller scale in home kitchens.

4. The Blue Zones American Kitchen

The blue zones are places around the world where people consistently live to or past 100. In this book by bestselling author Dan Buettner, you can learn from the wisdom of more than 50 food experts and chefs around the country about the traditional roots of plant-forward cuisine in the United States. By cooking these recipes at home, you can follow Buettner’s journey as he uncovers the regions and cultures that have shaped America’s healthiest food landscapes, from Hmong elders living in Minnesota to the Pilgrims in New England.

5. The Golden Girls Cookbook: Cheesecakes & Cocktails!

Are you a Golden Girls superfan? Don’t miss out on these fun and delicious dessert and drink recipes from Blanche, Rose, Dorothy and Sophia. Building on the success of the first The Golden Girls Cookbook, this edition includes over 40 new recipes from the Fab Four, including Rose’s The Fall of St. Olaf Pumpkin Cheesecake, Dorothy’s Vodka and Black Underwear drink, Sophia’s Double Fudge Amaretto Ricotta Cheesecake and Blanche’s Big Daddy Mint Julep. You’ll also enjoy beautiful photos, fun quotes, jokes and photographs from the show.

These cookbooks make great gifts for all the home chefs you love. You can find these delicious and educational titles from Disney Publishing Worldwide and National Geographic Books wherever books are sold.