Summertime is here, and so are all the wonderful outdoor activities! Playing a game of tag outside or going for a swim in the pool can be great summer fun. But when your little ones need an indoor activity, creative crafts can be just what they need to stay busy and entertained. With minimal supplies, you can have your child crafting away on something special that they’ll treasure forever. From homemade wind chimes to beach-themed crafts – read on to discover some unique and fun craft ideas that your kids will love this summer!

Make a nature-inspired terrarium out of recycled materials

Looking to bring a touch of nature indoors? Why not have the kids create a beautiful and sustainable terrarium using recycled materials? With a bit of creativity, they can turn old mason jars, bottles, or even light bulbs into a thriving ecosystem for their favorite plants. Add small pebbles or rocks for drainage, layer with activated charcoal to keep the soil healthy, and then add a mix of plants, mosses, and ferns for a truly stunning display. Not only is this a fun and engaging project, but it’s also a great way to reduce waste and express their love for the environment. 

Create a personalized beach bag using fabric markers

How about having your kids create a unique and personal beach bag? They can do that easily with fabric markers! By choosing their own design and color scheme, they can make a bag that’s truly one-of-a-kind. Whether they want to add their favorite quote, image, or simply their name, the possibilities for creativity are endless. The best part is that once they’ve finished, they’ll have a functional and stylish accessory that’s sure to stand out on any beach or pool day. 

Craft colorful paper flowers to decorate the house

Bring the beauty of nature inside your home by crafting colorful paper flowers to decorate your living space. With just a few simple materials, your kids can create stunning blooms that are sure to brighten up any room. Plus, once they’re done, you can enjoy the fruits of their labor all year round without having to worry about watering or upkeep! So turn up your favorite tunes, grab some colorful paper, and let them create a beautiful bouquet of paper flowers.

Paint and decorate flower pots and let them grow their own plants

Head to your local garden center, pick up some plain terracotta pots and let your children get to work making them unique. By painting and decorating the flower pots, they can create personalized and eye-catching designs that perfectly complement any decor. Not only is it a fun craft project, but it also allows them to flex their creativity. Once their flower pot is ready, it’s time to start growing some plants. Whether it’s kitchen herbs, succulents, or colorful annuals, they’ll love watching their plants thrive and flourish.

Crafting and DIY are excellent activities to fill your child’s time this summer – especially on a rainy day. The projects they create can not only provide a sense of accomplishment, but they are also lots of fun and are sure to bring out their creative side. Whether it’s making a terrarium out of recycled materials, creating a personalized beach bag out of fabric markers, crafting paper flowers to add color to the home, or painting flower pots, there are many ways to successfully indulge in some DIY crafting with your children. Just grab the art supplies and get started!

Ah, summertime. Sunlight streaming through the windows, a warm breeze ruffling the leaves on the trees, and…stepping outside only to be met with blistering heat?! Most people love spending time outdoors during this time of year; however, soaring temperatures can quickly put a damper on those activities. Fortunately, staying cool when it’s hot outside isn’t impossible! Need some tips for beating the heat and keeping yourself comfortable while enjoying all that summer has to offer? Read on for ways to ensure that you remain comfortable and safe in high temps!

Avoid the sun during peak hours

With summer in full swing, it’s essential to stay safe and healthy while enjoying the beautiful weather. While the sun is a great source of vitamin D, it’s important to be mindful of how much time you spend outside during peak hours. The sun’s rays are strongest between 10 am and 4 pm, and prolonged exposure during this time can lead to sunburn, premature aging, and even skin cancer. Instead, try to schedule outdoor activities during the morning or evening when the sun’s rays are less intense. And if you do need to be outside during peak hours, make sure to wear protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses, and apply sunscreen regularly. Protecting your skin now will help keep it healthy and radiant for years to come.

Take cool showers throughout the day to keep your body temperature low

When the weather outside is hot and humid, sometimes it feels like there’s no escape from the sweltering heat. But did you know that taking cool showers throughout the day helps keep your body temperature low and therefore makes you feel more comfortable? Not only does the rush of cool water feel refreshing and energizing, but it can also help cool down your body by reducing the amount of heat that’s trapped inside. So next time you’re feeling overheated, instead of turning up the air conditioning, try hopping in the shower for a quick cool-down. Your body (and your electric bill) will thank you!

Place ice packs on pulse points such as your wrists and neck to keep cool

Summer heat can be brutal, and if you’re the kind of person who sweats easily, staying cool can feel like an impossible task. However, did you know that placing ice packs on your pulse points, such as your wrists and neck, can actually help regulate your body temperature? This simple and effective technique is a game-changer for anyone struggling to beat the heat. Not only does it provide instant relief, but it’s also a cheap and convenient alternative to expensive air conditioning units. So the next time the mercury rises, don’t suffer in silence. Grab some ice packs and chill out!

Wear light, breathable clothing when you’re out in the sun

As the sun begins to shine brighter and the temperature rises, it’s crucial to stay comfortable and protected while spending time outdoors. One way to achieve this is by wearing light, breathable clothing that allows your skin to breathe and stay cool. Lightweight fabrics such as cotton, linen, and rayon are perfect for combating the heat while keeping you stylish. Not only will you feel more comfortable, but you’ll also reduce the risk of heat exhaustion and sunburn. So, next time you plan to take a walk or spend time in the sun, be sure to dress appropriately and stay cool, calm, and collected.

Drink plenty of fluids, such as water and sports drinks, to stay hydrated

Staying hydrated is crucial for maintaining good health and ensuring that your body functions properly. Drinking fluids like water and sports drinks help to replenish the fluids lost through sweating, especially during exercise or in hot weather. Not only can dehydration lead to discomfort and fatigue, but it can also cause more serious health problems like heat stroke. When it comes to hydration, it’s important to drink regularly throughout the day rather than just when you’re feeling thirsty. Whether you’re hitting the gym or just spending time outdoors, remember to drink plenty of fluids to keep yourself feeling and performing at your best.

Use a fan during the hottest part of the day for maximum airflow

The scorching heat of the day can be unbearable, but luckily there are ways to stay cool. One of the most effective ways to beat the heat is by using a fan during the hottest part of the day. Fans not only circulate the air around the room, but they also create a cool breeze that can help lower body temperatures. When using a fan, it’s important to position it correctly in the room for maximum airflow. By placing the fan in the right location, you can enjoy a refreshing breeze that will keep you cool and comfortable throughout the day. So, don’t suffer in the heat; use a fan and feel the cool airflow.

Yes, the summer heat can be brutal but there are steps you can take to help make it more bearable. Keeping cool and hydrated in the sun should always come first. Avoiding exposure for too long, taking cool showers, wearing lightweight clothing, and placing ice packs on pulse points can all be helpful measures. If you’re mindful about your exposure to heat during these warmer months, there’s definitely no need to suffer!

Are you planning your next summer barbecue or heading to one hosted by a friend? Side dishes are the perfect way to add extra flavor and fun to any outdoor gathering. From zesty potato salads to tasty cornbread and more, here is a list of side dishes for you to try at your next gathering! These recipes will have everyone asking for seconds!

 

Mexican Street Corn Salad

Mexican Street Corn has long been a favorite in Mexico and is quickly becoming popular all around the world. This recipe takes it one step further and makes a yummy salad with all of the same ingredients as the famous street food. Grilled corn is cut off the cob and tossed with a mixture of spices, mayonnaise, and cheese to form a refreshingly unique salad. The flavors of garlic, lime juice, Cotija cheese, cilantro, smoked paprika, and jalapenos make this dish not only delicious but also unforgettable. Although it is usually served as a side dish at parties, Mexican Street Corn Salad can actually be enjoyed as a low-calorie snack any time of day. It doesn’t take long to make and can easily be modified to suit those desiring a vegan variation. Mexican Street Corn Salad is sure to tantalize your taste buds!

Baked Potato Salad

Baked Potato Salad is a surprisingly delicious twist on a classic dish. This easy-to-make dish combines russet potatoes with a simple creamy sauce. Not only will this recipe impress dinner guests, but it is simple enough to whip up in minutes. Start by baking your russet potatoes until tender, and then combine them with your favorite sour cream, mayonnaise, bacon, green onions, shredded cheddar cheese, and salt and pepper. Enjoy this unique take on potato salad whenever you’re craving something savory – it’s sure to bring rave reviews from everyone at your table!

Jalapeno Cornbread

Jalapeno cornbread is savory and slightly spicy twist on the classic southern favorite. If you’re looking for a new way to spice up your menu, this flavorful cornbread is sure to fit the bill. And yes, this recipe has you making it entirely from scratch – no boxed cornbread at all! Serve it with some pats of butter or a squeeze of honey, and your guests will be oohing and ahhing at your culinary skills.

Calico Beans

Calico beans often get overlooked as just a side dish to carry with a meal, but they are definitely worth taking center stage. Calico beans offer a combination of bacon, onions, ground beef, and three different kinds of beans combined together in one pot. Once you have your ingredients combined, it’s all about enjoying their complex flavors as they come together for an unforgettable taste. It’s time to step aside mashed potatoes and macaroni and cheese – Calico Beans are going to be the star of the show!

Bruschetta Pasta Salad

Bruschetta Pasta Salad is a unique and tasty side dish that’s ideal for summer. It combines your favorite pasta with the bright, fresh flavor of classic bruschetta. Perfect for lunch on a hot summer day or as a quick side dish at any barbecue, bruschetta pasta has become a favorite in many households. You’ll love the blend of herbs and spices mixed with tomatoes, onions, and parmesan cheese.

Thai Cucumber Salad

Thai Cucumber Salad is an incredibly flavorful and refreshing side dish, perfect for a hot summer day. This low-calorie side dish is quick and easy to make, combining sliced cucumbers with red onion, fresh cilantro and lime, and tangy fish sauce. And don’t forget to add some garnishes! You can add chopped peanuts, toasted sesame seeds, or crushed red chili flakes.  

There’s no doubt these dishes will be a hit with friends and family this season. Each recipe is easy to put together and incredibly delicious! So, the next time you’re hosting or heading to a barbecue, make one of these!

If you’re anything like most people, opening your refrigerator to find it disorganized, cluttered, and in complete chaos can be a major headache. Instead of just slamming the fridge door shut and ordering takeout, why not take a few minutes to get it organized? By taking some simple steps, you can get your refrigerator back under control and keep your food fresh.

Start with an empty fridge and wipe down the shelves with a damp cloth

An empty fridge is a perfect opportunity to ensure that it is spick and span. A thorough cleaning of your refrigerator will save you from an onslaught of germs, help keep food fresher longer, and add extra life to your appliance. For the most effective clean, start by first wiping down the shelves with a damp cloth. Then use a mild detergent or diluted bleach solution and give the inside of the fridge a good scrub. Finish up with a warm-water rinse, and you’ll be ready to start the fridge transformation!

Divide your food into categories, such as produce, dairy, condiments, leftovers, etc.

Keeping your food organized into categories is a great way to make your fridge more manageable. For example, if you separate all your produce from dairy items, condiments, and leftovers, you’ll be able to quickly find needed items when it’s time to meal prep. This also helps make sure you’re using the freshest ingredients in each meal while also taking advantage of the food you have available to you. Lastly,  it will also reduce the overall amount of wasted food as you’ll know what you have.

Place items on the shelves according to your needs 

By placing items on the shelves according to your needs, you can make sure that everything is easily accessible when you want it. Opt to store frequently used items within easy reach and reserve upper and lower shelves for less-used items. 

Make use of clear storage containers for easier organization

With clear containers, you can easily see what items you have and how much of each item. Additionally, this type of storage is usually stackable, which means it takes up minimal shelf space. Finally, with plastic clear storage containers being relatively inexpensive compared to other alternatives, they won’t break your budget. 

Keep a weekly shopping list 

Keeping a weekly shopping list is an invaluable way to ensure you have all the ingredients you need in your kitchen when it’s time to whip up a meal. Not only will it save you time and money during shopping trips, but it can also encourage healthier eating if you plan ahead. Making a list before grocery shopping is especially beneficial for busy families who want to make sure their fridge is full of healthy things for quick, delicious dinners all week. List-making takes out the guesswork of putting together meals. 

Get rid of expired foods regularly to prevent clutter and bad smells from taking over

It’s important to get rid of expired food on a regular basis. Take a proactive approach and periodically check expiration dates, and make sure you get rid of leftovers that have been in the fridge just a little too long. Doing so means you won’t need to worry about sorting through expired products and dealing with offensive odors in your home. 

By following a few simple tips, such as grouping similar items together and regularly checking expiration dates, you can keep your refrigerator neat and tidy and ensure your food stays fresh and tasty for longer. So take some time to reorganize your refrigerator today, and enjoy the many benefits of a clutter-free fridge!

Summer beach reads are a beloved tradition for many avid readers. These books are often light and entertaining, perfect for lazy afternoons spent soaking up the sun and listening to the sound of the waves crashing on the shore. Whether you prefer romance, mystery, or science fiction, there is a summer beach read out there for everyone. So grab your sunscreen, a towel, and a good book, and get ready to dive into the world of summer beach reads.

Zero Days by Ruth Ware (Release Date June 20, 2023)

Hired by companies to break into buildings and hack security systems, Jack and her husband, Gabe, are the best penetration specialists in the business. But after a routine assignment goes horribly wrong, Jack arrives home to find her husband dead. To add to her horror, the police are closing in on their suspect—her.

Suddenly on the run and quickly running out of options, Jack must decide who she can trust as she circles closer to the real killer in this unputdownable and heart-pounding mystery from an author whose “propulsive prose keeps readers on the hook and refuses to let anyone off until all has been revealed” (Shelf Awareness).

The Five-Star Weekend by Elin Hilderbrand (Release Date June 13, 2023)

Hollis Shaw’s life seems picture-perfect. She’s the creator of the popular food blog Hungry with Hollis and is married to Matthew, a dreamy heart surgeon. But after she and Matthew get into a heated argument one snowy morning, he leaves for the airport and is killed in a car accident. The cracks in Hollis’s perfect life—her strained marriage and her complicated relationship with her daughter, Caroline—grow deeper.

So when Hollis hears about something called a “Five-Star Weekend”—one woman organizes a trip for her best friend from each phase of her life: her teenage years, her twenties, her thirties, and midlife—she decides to host her own Five-Star Weekend on Nantucket. But the weekend doesn’t turn out to be a joyful Hallmark movie.

The husband of Hollis’s childhood friend Tatum arranges for Hollis’s first love, Jack Finigan, to spend time with them, stirring up old feelings. Meanwhile, Tatum is forced to play nice with abrasive and elitist Dru-Ann, Hollis’s best friend from UNC Chapel Hill. Dru-Ann’s career as a prominent Chicago sports agent is on the line after her comments about a client’s mental health issues are misconstrued online. Brooke, Hollis’s friend from their thirties, has just discovered that her husband is having an inappropriate relationship with a woman at work. Again! And then there’s Gigi, a stranger to everyone (including Hollis) who reached out to Hollis through her blog. Gigi embodies an unusual grace and, as it happens, has many secrets.

The Five-Star Weekend is a surprising and captivating story about friendship, love, and self-discovery set on Nantucket. It will be a weekend like no other.

The Beach at Summerly by Beatriz Williams (Release Date June 27, 2023)

June 1946. As the residents of Winthrop Island prepare for the first summer season after the sacrifice of war, a glamorous new figure moves into the guest cottage at Summerly, the idyllic seaside estate of the wealthy Peabody family. To Emilia Winthrop, daughter of Summerly’s year-round caretaker and a descendant of the island’s settlers, Olive Rainsford opens a window into a world of shining possibility. While Emilia spent the war years caring for her incapacitated mother, Olive traveled the world, married fascinating men, and involved herself in political causes. She’s also the beloved aunt of the two surviving Peabody sons, Amory and Shep, with whom Emilia has a tangled romantic history.

As the summer wears on, Emilia develops a deep rapport with Olive, who urges her to leave the island for a life of adventure, while romance blossoms with the sturdy and honorable Shep. But the heady promise of Peabody patronage is blown apart by the arrival of Sumner Fox, an FBI agent who demands Emilia’s help to capture a Soviet agent who’s transmitting vital intelligence on the West’s atomic weapon program from somewhere inside the Summerly estate.

April 1954. Eight years later, Summerly is boarded up and Emilia has rebuilt her shattered life as a professor at Wellesley College, when shocking news arrives from Washington—the traitor she helped convict is about to be swapped for an American spy imprisoned in the Soviet Union, but with a mysterious condition only Emilia can fulfill. A reluctant Emilia is summoned to CIA headquarters, where she’s forced to confront the harrowing consequences of her actions that fateful summer, and a choice that could destroy the Peabody family—and Emilia’s chance for redemption—all over again.

The Celebrants by Steven Rowley (Release Date May 30, 2023)

It’s been a minute—or five years—since Jordan Vargas last saw his college friends, and twenty-eight years since their graduation when their adult lives officially began. Now Jordan, Jordy, Naomi, Craig, and Marielle find themselves at the brink of a new decade, with all the responsibilities of adulthood, yet no closer to having their lives figured out. Though not for a lack of trying. Over the years they’ve reunited in Big Sur to honor a decades-old pact to throw each other living “funerals,” celebrations to remind themselves that life is worth living—that their lives mean something, to one another if not to themselves.

But this reunion is different. They’re not gathered as they were to bolster Marielle as her marriage crumbled, to lift Naomi after her parents died, or to intervene when Craig pleaded guilty to art fraud. This time, Jordan is sitting on a secret that will upend their pact.

A deeply honest tribute to the growing pains of selfhood and the people who keep us going, coupled with Steven Rowley’s signature humor and heart, The Celebrants is a moving tale about the false invincibility of youth and the beautiful ways in which friendship helps us celebrate our lives, even amid the deepest challenges of living.

Meet Me at the Lake by Carley Fortune (Release Date May 2, 2023)

Fern Brookbanks has wasted far too much of her adult life thinking about Will Baxter. She spent just twenty-four hours in her early twenties with the aggravatingly attractive, idealistic artist, a chance encounter that spiraled into a daylong adventure in the city. The timing was wrong, but their connection was undeniable: they shared every secret, every dream, and made a pact to meet one year later. Fern showed up. Will didn’t.

At thirty-two, Fern’s life doesn’t look at all how she once imagined it would. Instead of living in the city, Fern’s back home, running her mother’s lakeside resort—something she vowed never to do. The place is in disarray, her ex-boyfriend’s the manager, and Fern doesn’t know where to begin.

She needs a plan—a lifeline. To her surprise, it comes in the form of Will, who arrives nine years too late, with a suitcase in tow and an offer to help on his lips. Will may be the only person who understands what Fern’s going through. But how could she possibly trust this expensive-suit wearing mirage who seems nothing like the young man she met all those years ago. Will is hiding something, and Fern’s not sure she wants to know what it is. 

But ten years ago, Will Baxter rescued Fern. Can she do the same for him?

Are you ready to soak up some sun and enjoy a new book this summer? Escape from the stresses of everyday life and immerse yourself in one of 2023’s newest releases!

***All book descriptions courtesy of Amazon

Do you want to spruce up your balcony or patio with a beautiful container garden? Then you’ll need to choose the right plants! Here are some top picks for the best plants for your container garden. These plants are all easy to care for and will thrive in most types of containers.

Herbs such as basil, dill, and cilantro 

Container gardening can be a great way to add some color and flavor to your home and your life. Herbs such as basil, dill, and cilantro are perfect for those who don’t have much space but want to cultivate something that can be used in the kitchen. Container gardens need less maintenance than many other types of gardens, and the herbs you can grow can provide you with some wonderful flavors and aromas. 

Flowers such as celosia, marigolds, and petunias 

Container gardening is becoming increasingly popular as people discover the joy of growing their own plants and flowers in containers. For anyone looking to start a beautiful container garden, there are a few flowers that are particularly well-suited for the task, such as celosia, marigolds, and petunias. Celosias offer vibrantly colored blooms in shades of purple, orange, yellow, and more. Marigolds provide long-lasting beauty with repeat blooming throughout the season. And petunias bring on an abundance of fanfare with a profusion of vibrant colors and mounds of lush foliage. 

Vegetables such as lettuce, tomatoes, and peppers 

Container gardens are a great way to grow some of your favorite vegetables right at home! Lettuce, tomatoes, and peppers do exceptionally well in containers. The smaller size of the container garden allows the soil to warm up faster in the spring, meaning you get to enjoy homegrown produce earlier in the season. It’s also easy to move containers around if certain spots aren’t getting enough sun or your plants become infested with pests. With just a pot, some soil, and some hard work, a container garden is an excellent way to add fresh veggies to your diet this summer!

Strawberries 

When it comes to container gardening, strawberries are an excellent choice for those who want to make the most of their outdoor space. An excellent source of Vitamin C, these sweet gems are both healthy and easy to grow, even in a container garden. They thrive when planted in any kind of container or window box ranging in size from small terra-cotta pots to plastic buckets. With adequate sun and soil, they need only water, time, and a little care and attention to ensure tasty berries at harvest. 

Bulbs such as iris, crocus, and daffodils 

Planting spring-flowering bulbs in containers is a great way to bring beautiful blooms to a small space. Not only are they easy to care for and don’t require much work, but they can liven up your outdoor living area. Some of the best bulbs for containers include irises, crocuses, and daffodils, all of which are resilient plants that thrive in containers after the winter season passes. Plant different types together for a unique blend of color and texture that will add plenty of interest to your outdoor space. They also tend to be low-maintenance, requiring minimal attention on your part beyond planting and watering; it’s an easy way to enjoy colorful flowers without taking on too much responsibility!

Plants such as ficus, cactus, and dracaena 

A wide variety of plants are perfect for keeping in containers, allowing you to mix and match, rotate them around easily, or even move them to another location. Ficus, cactus, and dracaena are all excellent choices for container gardening; they’re quite hardy and tolerate minimal watering, so you don’t need to worry about them too much. With the proper care and maintenance, these plants will stay healthy and vibrant for years, providing some much-needed beauty in any environment.

Container gardening is a great way to maximize your growing space and enjoy the beauty of plants. Herbs, flowers, vegetables, strawberries, bulbs, and certain houseplants can all be grown in containers. When choosing what to grow in your container garden, keep in mind that each type of plant will require different care instructions – so make sure to do proper research before selecting your plants. Whether you’re a beginner gardener or a pro, you’re sure to find the perfect plant for your container garden from this list!

What’s for dinner? If you’re like most people, you probably don’t have a lot of time to cook during the week. But that doesn’t mean you have to eat out or order in every night. With a bit of planning, you can make quick and easy weeknight meals that are both healthy and delicious. So take a look at this list of easy weeknight recipes, and get cooking!

Spaghetti and meatballs 

Spaghetti and meatballs is one of the most popular meals enjoyed around the world. It is an all-time classic that can be prepared in under an hour! The rich tomato sauce, hearty beef or pork meatballs, and al dente spaghetti are just a few of the elements that make up this delicious dish. But quite often, each family has its own secret recipe that involves swapping standard ingredients for their preferred tastes. For instance, some might add dried herbs and spices to enhance the flavor, while others may add a special olive oil. The best thing about spaghetti and meatballs is that it doesn’t leave anyone disappointed and is guaranteed to bring smiles to faces with every bite.

Grilled chicken breasts with a simple salad 

Grilled chicken breasts with a simple salad is an ideal meal when you’re short on time but still want to eat something healthy that will satisfy your hunger. The simplicity of the meal allows you to focus on preparing the food quickly, which is great for busy nights. The grilled chicken adds protein and flavor, while the salad adds some freshness and crunch to balance things out. Plus, you can use whatever ingredients you have on hand in the kitchen, so it’s easy to customize for whatever flavors you prefer! Check your local grocery store for quick marinades and rubs that can change up the taste of your chicken breasts – allowing this meal to be in the rotation often.

Salmon fillets with roasted vegetables

Salmon fillets with roasted vegetables is the perfect meal for a busy night. Not only is it full of flavor and nutrition, but it’s incredibly easy to prepare! All you have to do is drizzle salmon fillets with olive oil and season them lightly with salt and pepper before baking them in the oven. To go along with the salmon, you can simply chop up some of your favorite vegetables and toss them in a bit more olive oil before roasting them until they reach that perfect crispy-tender consistency. In no time at all, you’ll have an incredibly delicious yet healthful dinner on the table that everyone can enjoy.

Pasta Primavera

For a light and refreshing dish that’s perfect for those warm summer evenings, look no further than pasta primavera. This classic Italian dish is a great way to use up the abundance of fresh vegetables found during the summer months, combining seasonal favorites like zucchini, asparagus, and bell peppers with creamy cheese and light tomato-based sauces. The best part about this dish is its customization – you can go wild with ingredients such as olives, artichokes, capers, and even herbs for an unbeatable flavor. Feel free to get creative – your pasta primavera will be sure to impress.

Beef tacos with homemade salsa 

There’s a reason that Taco Tuesdays are so popular, and it’s because everyone loves them! Beef tacos with homemade salsa can be a flavorful and fun meal for the whole family. The prep work for this meal is not too involved, and your family will love participating by creating their own personalized tacos. Your homemade salsa can be customized to have any spice level desired, so everyone’s preferences are sure to be accounted for.

These are just a few of our favorite quick and easy recipes. We hope you’ll try them out, and let us know what you think! And if you have any favorite quick and easy recipes of your own, please share them in the comments below!

If you’re working full-time and trying to keep your home clean, you know how challenging it can be. But don’t despair – there are some simple things you can do to help keep your place tidy while still being able to focus on your career. Here are a few tips to get you started.

Schedule your cleaning time and stick to it 

If you are looking for a way to make your house more orderly and organized, scheduling a regular cleaning time is the way to go. Setting aside an hour each day or week can help you keep up with the mess and make sure your home never gets too out of control. When scheduling your cleaning time, it can be easier to just wake up an hour earlier than usual – that way, you can focus on the task at hand and avoid unnecessary interruptions. Self-discipline is key here – try committing to this routine for at least two weeks, and soon you will find it becomes easier and more manageable over time. 

Set small goals

Setting small goals go a long way toward keeping your home clean and tidy. Cleaning the kitchen before you go to bed each night is a great way to start this habit. It does not have to be an overwhelming task, as you can easily break it down into smaller chunks – for example, for 5 minutes straight, wipe down all work surfaces and shelves in the kitchen. Making it into a quick and fun activity gives the job that ‘quick-fix’ feel, which is the perfect way to end your day in a productive manner. 

Invest in quality products that will make your life easier 

It’s easy to spend hours vacuuming a carpet, with that stubborn dirt refusing to come up. Why not save time and effort by investing in a high-quality vacuum cleaner? Not only will it make daily cleaning chores easier, but it’ll also make sure your home stays cleaner for longer.  High-quality cleaning products can make all the difference when it comes to a clean home.

Be prepared for accidents and spills

Accidents happen, so it’s always best to be prepared. Keeping a few rags and cleaning supplies nearby can make dealing with an accident much easier. You never know when you might need to quickly tend to a spill or clean up a mess before it sets in. Having the necessary materials to take care of the situation on hand can save you time and money, prevent further damage from occurring, and help restore your home or workspace to its original condition as soon as possible.

Make sure everyone in the house is on board with the plan 

If you’re aiming for success, it is important to make sure everyone in your house is on board with the plan. Whether it’s roommates, family members, or your partner, everyone must be aligned and determined to help each with the cleaning goals. After all, you can accomplish much more together than alone. 

Don’t be afraid to ask for help 

Don’t be afraid to ask for help –  as a professional cleaning service may be the answer you need. Ask friends or family for recommendations, and do your research to find a cleaning company that fits you and your lifestyle.

A clean house is a happy house – and with a little bit of effort, it’s totally achievable. By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to having a clean home that you can be proud of. Do you have any other cleaning tips that you swear by? 

Are you feeling like your mental health needs a little TLC? It may be time to step back and focus on practices that can help improve it. One of the best ways to do this is by investing in yourself through activities that bring you joy, so why not give podcasts a go? Listen to these podcasts and reap the benefits they have to offer; they are packed full of helpful knowledge delivered in an engaging and enjoyable way.

The Happiness Lab

You might think you know what it takes to lead a happier life… more money, a better job, or Instagram-worthy vacations. You’re dead wrong. Yale professor Dr. Laurie Santos has studied the science of happiness and found that many of us do the exact opposite of what will truly make our lives better. Based on the psychology course she teaches at Yale — the most popular class in the university’s 300-year history — Laurie will take you through the latest scientific research and share some surprising and inspiring stories that will change the way you think about happiness.

Mental Health: Hope and Recovery

Helen Sneed and Valerie Milburn have both fought and overcome severe, chronic mental illnesses, and offer an insider’s approach to mental health. They share inspirational true stories and a host of recovery skills. Episodes examine depression, anxiety, substance use and eating disorders, self-harm, suicide, other major illnesses, and the pandemic’s impact. You’ll learn about treatment options, coping skills, goal setting, relationships, and mindfulness. Helen and Valerie are your peers. They are not a substitute for qualified counseling or other mental health resources. They are not professionals, but they are experts through their own lived experience with multiple mental health conditions.

Imani State of Mind

Imani State of Mind is a weekly podcast hosted by psychiatrist and TV personality Dr. Imani Walker and co-host comedian MegScoop Thomas, sharing their personal and professional experiences to help navigate and normalize conversations about mental health. Each week they’ll talk about what’s happening in news, pop culture, and our daily lives as we work to get our minds right. 

Tara Brach

Tara Brach, Ph.D is an internationally known meditation teacher and author of bestselling Radical Acceptance and True Refuge. Tara shares a weekly guided meditation and talk that blend Western psychology and Eastern spiritual practices. The podcast addresses the value of mindfulness meditation and self-compassion in relieving emotional suffering, serving spiritual awakening and bringing healing to our world.

The Courageous Life

Founded by coach and teacher Joshua Steinfeldt, The Courageous Life is a global conversation with thought leaders and everyday heroes about overcoming fear and growing courage to pursue what matters most in life, work, and love.

Inside Mental Health

Award-winning weekly podcast that approaches psychology and mental health in an accessible way. Listen as our host Gabe Howard speaks candidly with experts, celebrities, and other notables to break down complex topics into simpler terms.

Dear Therapists

I’m Lori Gottlieb, author of Maybe You Should Talk To Someone. And I’m Guy Winch, author of Emotional First Aid. We’re both advice columnists, TED speakers, and of course therapists in clinical practice who want to bring the lessons of the therapy room outside the therapy room… to all of you. Each week on DEAR THERAPISTS, we invite you to be a fly-on-the-wall in these personal, raw, transformative sessions with everyday people and then hear what happens when we give concrete, actionable advice and have them report back to let us know how things went after the session ended. We’re sharing these real sessions because we believe that everyone can benefit from hearing how people just like them get through their struggles and grow and change. So sit back and come into the therapy room with us… and prepare to learn a lot about yourself in the process.

While it’s important to talk about mental health, it’s also important to listen. These podcasts create a space for people to share their stories and offer listeners support, advice and practical tips. If you’re looking for something to boost your mental well being, or just want to feel less alone, give one of these fantastic podcasts a try.

***All podcast descriptions courtesy of Apple Podcasts