Super Bowl Sunday is on its way and many people aren’t exactly sure how to navigate a year without tailgating, in-person games, and game day parties. So, navigating the Super Bowl might be a tough event for some people, especially if you’re still craving the experience that you’ve had year in and year out. There are many things you can do to make the big event feel a little more normal though. Luckily, these tips won’t put pressure on your budget either, so you can easily save money this season to make your next big bash amazing.

1. Get Artistic
The Super Bowl is one of those events where you can really put your heart and soul into the creativity of your food. From stadiums made of food to unique dishes shaped like football gear, this event opens up the gates of creativity. Since you won’t be feeding a large group this year, then you might want to consider putting more detail into the food, so you get the same rewarding feeling. This probably won’t be more time consuming than cooking large portions of food, so you won’t sacrifice anything time-wise. You can even post pictures of your food online to share with other people. If you’re feeling the competitive spirit, then call out friends and family to post their pictures for an online competition that people can vote on.

2. Watch Party
Just because you can’t have visitors for the big game, doesn’t mean you have to watch alone. If you’re craving social interactions, then create a digital watch party. This can be a lot of fun, especially with many chat programs offering a wide variety of background options to add to the experience. Setting up a call with a few different households is very easy and will allow everyone to react to the game together as if you were there in person. Of course, you can also do a live stream if you’re feeling like sharing commentary to those that you would normally chat with during the game. This can make the experience a little less lonely, which is certain to bring more joy to the event, even if your team doesn’t win.

3. Online Predictions
A lot of people love to make predictions of the game, especially during a party. This is a little hard to do on your own, so if you want the game day experience then start a thread on social media or create a group text to help everyone put in their predictions. This can be a fun way to engage people throughout the event, which will create a more communal experience that will help bring you value. You can even add fun prizes to the mix like someone cooks dinner for someone else and delivers to their door and so on. This can add so much more fun to your game that you might even consider doing it even when you can get a party going.

4. Drinking Games
If you’re used to having adult parties then drinking might be a normal part of the game for you. It’s hard to enjoy some of the elements of drinking without an assortment of people surrounding you, but there are ways to include everyone during the game. One way to do this is drinking games. For instance, you can ask everyone to take a drink when one person scores or a coach yells, and so on. There are already many Super Bowl themed drinking games available to you, so if you don’t want to come up with rules of your own you can work from there. These games can be shared with friends as you enjoy a group video call or simply communicate with each other through text.

5. Decorate
Decorations are great when you’re hosting people, but that doesn’t mean you should shy away from the décor this year. In fact, you might want to add even more to make your own all the more festive. Take your decorations onto the lawn, place them in the living room and kitchen, and so on. If you don’t have a lot, then use your spare time to create some from items that you have at home. This will definitely make it easy for you to have some fun while making your self-isolation quarantine party all the more fun. You can even get the kids in on the crafts as they can make banners and more to help ease some of the boredom from having to stay home.

6. Traditional Snacks
Snacks are truly one of the best things about the Super Bowl. A lot of people love to go all out with foods they wouldn’t normally make. So, don’t skimp this year. If you really want to add some fun to the occasion, then whip up some of your favorite tailgating snacks. You can grill, smoke, or fry some of your favorite meats and vegetables as if you were heading to the game with friends. Another way to approach snacks is to add items to the menu that you would typically choose at the stadium. Add that hot dog to the menu, whip up some soft pretzels, or keep it simple with popcorn. Whatever you like to have at the game, make it. This will make the experience feel more authentic while still keeping your budget down. You can find authentic recipes online too, which will definitely make your life easier.

7. Embrace Half Time
Half time is one of the most popular aspects of the Super Bowl. If you’re not a fan of the halftime show or you tend to use the time to make snacks and whatnot, then you might try to sit down and watch it this year. This will allow you to fully embrace the Super Bowl while you don’t have guests to entertain. When you do watch the halftime show, make sure you have some fun with it. Get up and dance, sing along, cheer with crowds. Whatever it is you need to have some fun, you should do it.

8. Neighborhood Watch Party
Getting to enjoy some social interaction doesn’t have to only involve screens. If you have a close-knit community, then you might consider asking everyone to have a block party. As long as everyone stays in their own yard and wears a mask for safety then it should be a lot of fun. You can watch the game using a projector screen, or simply have everyone watch from their own devices. You might consider cooking out, chatting, or even playing football together. As long as you take safety precautions, like wearing gloves while playing football, then you should be fine.

9. Small Gathering
If you have a group of people in your bubble, then you might still be able to enjoy a small gathering. However, you always need to keep the rules in mind when you host such an event. For instance, you shouldn’t have more than ten people at your gathering, this does include the people already in your home. You should also have seating that is spread out to ensure you are comfortable while still maintaining safety. Sanitizing should be frequently done as well to ensure the health of everyone. Always use utensils when dishing out snacks as well. It is not safe for people to eat from the same dip bowl. Also, try to keep the get-together to strictly people in your bubble. Your bubble consists of people that are also social distancing, but also those you come in contact with frequently. For some, it will be family, for others it will be colleagues.

10. Encourage Kids
A lot of the time, the Super Bowl tends to be more about the adults. So, this year, you might take a step back from your own celebrations and instead enjoy spending time with the kids. You can tell your kids about the two teams playing, explain the rules to them, help them cheer on a team, and so on. You never know, you might be helping your kids to become lifelong fans. You also might create a new way for you to bond with the kids. With all of the other people away from your space during the event, the Super Bowl event may even take on new meaning, which will allow you to pass down some of your childhood football traditions on to your kids.

Although the Super Bowl might look very different this year, you will find that there are lots of ways to still have fun with it. Some of these tips may even give off the illusions of normal even though we are still having to take extra precautions to stay safe. So, sit back and enjoy the Super Bowl, you may find even more reason to celebrate when you try out something new this year.

National Inventor’s Day is a great time to celebrate the inventors that have helped to shape the world that we live in. However, it is also the perfect time to celebrate the inventors of the future. This generation of children and young adults are going to make great waves as they grow and discover more about the world. These ten tips will help you to support the young inventor in your life so you can easily allow them to boost their knowledge without breaking the bank to do so. These tips will help keep young minds engaged and excited about learning, while also allowing you to take part in the experience.

1. Encourage Questions
One of the easiest and cheapest things that you can do is encourage questions whenever you can. If your child is asking about something, don’t shut them down, even if they’re on the fiftieth why the question of the day. Instead of dismissing questions, answer them if you can. If you can’t then you might consider looking up the information or going on a search for the information with your child. As they grow older, then it is important to offer them the tools needed to help find the information they need. From going to the library to looking up factual information online, this can be one of the best resources to help them thrive.

2. Science Experiments
When it comes to encouraging inventors, offering science experiments is one of the best ways to get active minds running. Whether you’re homeschooling or just trying to keep kids busy on weekends, there are tons of fun activities you can bring to your child’s life. You might start by looking around online for ideas that might spark your child’s interests. There are actually a lot of great projects you can do with items that can be found around the house. However, if your student is more advanced then you might want to branch out. There are lots of amazing kits you can find online that can help further your child’s knowledge in the field of their interest while also inspiring them to create their own experiments. You might also allow your child to take things apart in the name of science. This is one of the best things any young inventor can do in order to gain a better understanding of the things around them.

3. Documentaries
Documentaries can be a very powerful tool when it comes to your child’s education in the field of science. There are so many great documentaries to choose from that talk about just about any topic your child could possibly be interested in. Some documentaries will cover inventions, while others will help children learn the science needed to get to where they need to be. Of course, there are also many documentaries that are also based on inventors. This can help children find the inspiration they need to fully reach their goals in life.

4. Online Classes
With everything currently going on in the world, there are numerous online classes that you can enroll your child in. Many of these classes are actually specified in the field of your child’s interests which can help them feel happier about their field of choice. You can easily find classes that are age-appropriate as well, which can make it much easier for you to truly immerse your child in the world of science and inventions even before they learn to read. Some of these classes are even based around some of your child’s favorite toys like LEGOs. Although many of these classes cover everything your child needs, occasionally you might have to purchase extra kits. However, most of the time, you’ll have a class that is cheap and a short duration, which will suit your budget and your child’s attention span.

5. Science Kits
There are so many educational kits to take in now that you might actually have a hard time deciding which is best for your child. So, when you look for a science kit, you might take quite a few things into consideration before you shop. One of the most important things to consider is the age group of the kit. However, for older children, you might also consider if it will be challenging enough for your child if they tend to be advanced in the field of science. Some kits will also come as a subscription, which may or may not work for you. Looking at reviews will also help you to choose which kits will work best for you.

6. Field Trips
Field trips are one of the best ways for your child to get a hands-on learning experience in a stimulating environment. Field trips can take place in a manner of ways. For instance, you can go to a science museum or any museum that offers information on inventions or inventors from the past. You can also check out aviation museums or anything that is inspired by innovation. Nature is also a great way to enjoy inspiration for inventors, especially if you pose problems that they can solve while they’re out in nature. If self-isolation restrictions are keeping you at home then branch out. You can explore a number of museums at home. Some locations even give out supply bags to students, so they can do fun projects at home. Often, you’ll have to pay shipping for these items, and some museums might also charge a small fee for some of the supplies.

7. Trips to the Library
With anything, the library is a great resource for anyone. Young inventors are definitely going to get a lot out of a trip to the library. There, you will be able to find amazing books on science and inventors. You may even find books with projects inside that will help your child explore many different projects to help them learn and grow. There are also many books about inventors, which can also help children find role models that help them achieve their dreams. Some libraries also offer STEM based classes, which will allow your child to meet other young scientists while learning and enjoying what it means to be an inventor.

8. Recycle
Your recycling can be one of the best resources for a young inventor. Even though it might look like garbage, your child’s creativity will transform it into space suits, robots, and anything else that comes to their little minds. They may also start to transform these materials into small projects that actually function. Your recycling can also be electronics that no longer work. Allowing children to take them apart and explore how they function is a great way to help them learn and grow in their roles as inventors.

9. Competitions
If your child is already working towards becoming an inventor, then encourage them to join as many competitions as they possibly can. Competitions might revolve around children being given a series of instructions then asked to design something from there, or it might allow your child to showcase an invention that they have already made. Some competitions will even include battling robots or using coding to race machines. There’s a lot of fun to be had with competitions, but if your child stands out in these competitions, they can earn cash prizes as well as scholarships.

10. Scholarships
One of the most important things you can help your child with is scholarships. Whether if you’re looking to help finance college or you’re trying to help your child get into a special camp, scholarships can be a great way to make an inventor feel whole. There are lots of resources when it comes to scholarships though, so you won’t have to dig deep to find what you’re looking for. There are many ways your inventor can get a scholarship too. Some are based on grades, some will require essays, and some will even require your student to show off an invention. So, make sure you are prepared to help put in a little work as your inventor works towards making dreams come true.

Without inventors, we wouldn’t have so many of the luxuries or conveniences that we have in life. So National Inventor’s Day is a great way to celebrate those that are looking to join this honorable profession. This holiday might become one of your favorite days to celebrate, especially as you watch the inventor in your life advance.

If you’re celebrating Veganuary this year, then you might be running out of recipes that will keep you living a frugal lifestyle. Often, vegan recipes tend to include expensive ingredients that aren’t exactly something the average household can keep up with. Luckily, there are plenty of amazing recipes online that will suit your taste buds while helping you to stick to your vegan commitment this month. These ten ideas will play on your favorite comfort foods while keeping your budget flourishing.

1. Veggie Burgers
One of the easiest ways to satisfy your appetite on a budget is to simply whip up veggie burgers. When it comes to burgers, being vegan is incredibly easy because there are so many options to choose from. You might start with using store-bought patties or even working with items like Impossible Meat to help you feel more like you’re enjoying that burger feel. However, there are also numerous options to choose from when it comes to making your own patties. You can make everything from potato to chickpea burgers, which can help give you variety while also allowing you to enjoy more nutrients throughout the week. You can dress up your burger with almost anything too, which can help improve variety all the more.

2. One Pot Pasta
When it comes to busy nights, one of the best things you can do for a meal is a one-pot pasta. This also allows you to have a little fun with your meals as you can truly whip up a huge selection of dishes to make sure your taste buds don’t get bored. One-pot pasta is notoriously great because they allow you to whip up full meals with items that you just have sitting around in your refrigerator. Even if you’re craving creamy or cheesy elements, you can still swap things up with nutritional yeast and alternative milk to help you get the same feel. It doesn’t matter what you add in or what pasta you use, as it will help to make Veganuary feel a little less like a challenge and a little more like your normal routine. You may even find that you enjoy making these pasta so much that you can easily bring them into your regular schedule.

3. Soup
One of the best things you can do is make a soup when you’re not feeling any inspiration coming your way. This menu item can warm the soul and is especially comforting during the cold winter days. The best thing about soup is you can follow a recipe or completely reinvent something. For instance, when it comes to soup, you can toss some veggies in with the broth and you’ve got a treat that everyone will eat. You can also use alternative milk and nutritional yeast to get a cheesy flavor that is great for loaded potato soup. All in all, soup is easily thrown in a crockpot and forgotten, which makes it one of the easiest things you can make when you are worn out. There are tons of soup recipes to explore online too, so have fun with it. Plus, you can pair it with a sandwich of your choice to truly make the meal complete.

4. Stir Fry
When you’re craving something a little more Asian inspired then stir fry is a great direction to go in. This delicious meal can incorporate so many different things too. From tofu and eggplant to green onion and bell pepper, you can totally make your own stir fry without spending a small fortune. The best thing about stir fry is you can use a variety of sauces to truly cater to your needs. Of course, when it comes to stirfry, you also get to choose between noodles and rice, which can help cater to your budget all the more. This dish is simple to make for one or a whole party of people too, which can make your entertainment budget drop immensely. You may even tempt some of the pickier eaters in the household to try out this dish, which could help lead your whole family to healthier choices.

5. Burritos
Nothing says delicious quite like a nice burrito to feel you up. You don’t have to give up on burritos just because you’re not eating meat for a month though. In fact, some of the best burritos actually have vegetables, which makes it a lot of fun to experiment. Of course, the classic option to enjoy is a bean burrito, but if you’re looking to try something new then toy around with other forms of protein. You can also add as many veggies as you like to give it a fresh and enjoyable flavor that can’t be denied. Other than that, you can skip out on the burrito altogether and cut calories by enjoying a burrito bowl. Add some guacamole and you’ll be on the right track to eating right without having to pay extra from a restaurant.

6. Barbecue Sandwiches
If you’re really struggling to get through Veganuary without meat, then a barbecue sandwich might be your best way to enjoy the flavors and textures that you’ve been missing out on. You can enjoy a barbecue sandwich in many different ways. However, one of the methods that will provide you with the closest flavor and texture is going to be jackfruit. This fruit is remarkably similar to meat, so when you add in some sauce you’re good to go. Of course, you can enjoy other products too. For instance, tofu marinated in your favorite sauce is an easy option, but there are also meat alternatives that are designed to taste like the real deal when you add the right sauces.

7. Breakfast
Breakfast can still be your favorite meal of the day even when you’re keeping things vegan. One easy item to make is pancakes. Simply replace the milk and eggs with vegetarian alternatives and you’re good to go. Of course, you can also go with omelets, scrambles, and more of your favorite egg options without having to worry about your budget. You can also enjoy staples like biscuits and gravy without going out of your way to change recipes immensely. Breakfast is easy to wing too, but if you’re looking for recipes you won’t have to search far to find vegan options for your favorite dishes.

8. Curry
Curry and vegan food tend to go hand in hand, which is why it is one of the easiest and cheapest options for your menu. In order to enjoy vegan curry, you’ll have to swap yogurts and other creamy additions to the meal with milk alternatives. Coconut milk is actually a common ingredient used in many curries, so you won’t have to worry about changing recipes in many cases. Tofu and vegetables are common ingredients in many curries too, so finding recipes will be a breeze. Apart from that, all you will need is the spice to make your vegan curry truly suit your taste buds. Of course, adding naan to the meal adds the perfect finishing touch.

9. Pizza
Nothing says tasty quite like a pizza. Don’t worry though, because vegan foods definitely don’t deprive you of enjoying a slice of pizza or two. There are many ways that you can enjoy pizza without letting go of your diet. You might start by loading your pizza up with lots of vegetables. You can even make a vegetable-based crust if you’re feeling adventurous. Once you have everything ready to go then you might want to invest in some vegan cheese. You can also find meat alternatives that will make you feel like you’re getting your favorite topping without caving on your meatless goal. Some restaurants will also offer vegan options so you can still have a treat when you’re not in the mood to cook.

10. Baked Potato
One of the easiest lunches around is a simple baked potato. This dish can be dressed up to suit your individual needs too. You can even go healthier by using sweet potato for your meal. When it comes to keeping things vegan, most of the vegetables you would put on a potato are safe. You’ll just have to work out for chili, cheese, and various creams. However, once you get the perfect balance for your homemade potato, you will want to eat it all of the time, so make sure you explore your options.

Finishing out Veganuary strong won’t have to weigh heavily on your budget or your willpower. These ten ideas will help to keep your diet strong while allowing you to enjoy some of your favorite foods. You may even find being a vegan or a vegetarian simply makes more sense for you, which will allow you to do your part to eat less meat without worry.

Dealing with the age of tantrums can be tough for parents and children alike. Sometimes, there seems to be no solution to the problem, which can cause even more frustration for everyone. Luckily, parents these days have a lot of help when it comes to figuring out how to identify why a tantrum is happening and how to help your child move through it. These ten tips will help improve your child’s tantrums while leaving them feeling content and empowered when it comes to handling their emotions.

1. Time In
If you’ve been keeping up with trends in children’s psychology, then the time in method is going to be no news to you. However, if you haven’t heard of this method, it is one of the newest science-backed ways to help children improve their emotional intelligence while ensuring tantrums are less of a traumatic experience for the children and parents. A time in the corner consists of a comfortable place for children to sit and collect themselves while they are feeling overwhelmed. These little spots are perfect for sitting down and collecting your thoughts. Time in spaces should have a comfortable place to sit with something to squeeze or something soft to touch. You might also add sensory toys to your time in area to help your child adjust to the calm down area and find a sense of peace. Listening to music, meditating, or reading a book is also a great way to help calm your child. You may want to keep books based on emotions nearby to help your child reflect on what is bothering them. During this time, you shouldn’t ignore your child. Rather use the time as reflection and talk with your child about emotions and how to calm them.

2. Offer Distractions
Most of the time, when your child is throwing a tantrum or gearing up to throw one, a simple distraction can help things go from zero to ten quickly. One of the most common scenarios is when your child wants something in the store. Instead of giving them a simple no, explain that you may get it at a later time and ask them to assist you in a task, such as picking out some fruit or smelling soaps for the house. There are distractions all around, but you’ll still have to think fast on your feet during these experiences. Once you know what works for your child, you should be able to enjoy a more peaceful shopping experience or even find less struggle in the household.

3. Online Resources
If you’re struggling to make the best possible decisions for your child and you’re not sure where to begin, then you might start with some resources online. You can find out a lot of great information about tantrums, emotions, anger, frustration, and so on. This can give you the tools to help calm your child down while allowing you to guide them through their emotions. Websites like PBS Kids, Parents.com, and so many others offer many of these resources for free. Some will even have information to help your children learn about who they are and how they can handle their emotions via games, activities, and charts.

4. Sensory Toys
Sensory toys are a great way to help children process their emotions and feelings. These toys can often soothe children as they calm down their nervous system and learn how to express how they feel. Sensory toys are designed to occupy various senses which help children to calm down and concentrate on one thing at a time. There are many sensory toys you can buy, but there are also tons that you can make at home from items that you probably already have on hand. One of the most common items is a bottle that has small items floating within. You can do this simply with water, sequences, and glitter. However, you can also go all out and make one out of baby oil, water, food coloring, and any of the other add-ons that you choose. These toys can have LEGO pieces, dinosaurs, sequences, and other small items dropped inside, so children can watch the items as they calm down. There are lots of other sensory toy ideas online, so make sure to check out a few of the options to make the perfect options for your kids.

5. Check Diet
You might be surprised to find out that your child’s diet might be part of the issue with their tantrums. If children aren’t getting enough of the nutrients they need, it can cause emotional problems as well as issues with their behavior. With most toddlers being incredibly picky, it can be tough to have them on the diet of your choice. So, if your child seems to be acting out for unknown reasons and they are a tad on the picky side, then you may want to try out a vitamin or nutritional drink to help ease the issues they are facing. This will allow everyone to feel better and might even put an end to some of the problems your household is facing with your child’s behavior.

6. Exercise
In this day and age, it can be tough to get the kids outside. With many parks shut down and the fear of children catching the virus on the rise, if you don’t have a yard then there often isn’t a great place for kids to enjoy the fresh air. Not getting enough exercise can definitely cause tantrums in the household. If you can, try to get your kids outside for a few minutes each day. If not, then you might consider doing daily exercises that they can enjoy. Yoga is a great way to blow off some steam while allowing your children to learn how to calm their minds. You might also do simple exercises like jumping jacks, running in place, pushups, and sit-ups. Apart from that, you might try relay races, sock wars, and other activities that get the body moving.

7. Talk About Emotions
One of the most important things you can do with your child is talking about their emotions. Children often can’t identify what they are feeling because emotions are new and can be very scary. By giving a name to an emotion, you are teaching your child how to express how they are feeling, so you can help them work through the problem. This can help stop tantrums in their tracks. It will also give children the power to know more about themselves, which can lead to a healthier and happier life.

8. Meditation
Meditation often doesn’t seem like something a child might want to do. This is largely because it is hard for many people to sit still, so they don’t think their children can help handle it either. However, there are many successful programs that help to show children how to meditate without a problem. The good news is many of these programs are absolutely free. Even Netflix is jumping on the bandwagon and offering a free introduction to meditation. This can definitely help you to feel more confident about taking on the task, so you can also help your child learn. Meditation is known to calm the mind, which can be empowering in situations that are tough.

9. Keep a Schedule
Children thrive with structure, so when you keep to a schedule, you’re going to see many benefits come out of it. One of the major benefits is definitely going to be fewer tantrums. One of the main things to consider when choosing a schedule for your child is what is going to work best for your family. You might also want to consider what your child’s natural schedule is. This will help make nap time more efficient while allowing your child to work peacefully within the new schedule. In your schedule, make sure you have nap time, mealtimes, playtimes, and family time. The less time your child strays, the less likely they are to feel insecure about the world around them.

10. Learn to Keep Your Cool
It is incredibly hard to keep your cool sometimes. However, when you’re a parent, you really need to step it up in order to feel happier and healthier, while also ensuring your child feels remarkable. This can be tough, but there is a lot of help online to ensure that you can also keep yourself cool. Breathing techniques as well as working on your own emotions can help you out. If you do find yourself feeling frustrated, then step away until you have cooled down. Not acting on your anger will easily allow you to control your anger in the future. This will also set a great example for your child.

Tantrums are a small part of your child’s life, but they can leave you feeling completely out of control. These ten ideas might not completely put an end to your child’s tantrums, but they might help you to reduce the number of times that they happen while also allowing your child to move through his or her emotions with ease in the future.

Snowstorms have been hitting the country hard this year, which might leave people struggling to handle some of the problems that they cause. If you’re not careful then the snow can really leave you in a financial bind. On top of that, it can add some major inconveniences to your day. There are a few things you can do to help you enjoy the snow, without having to spend a fortune on items to help you handle the problems that it can bring. These ten ideas can help you deal with common problems, prevent potential damage, and make the snow season a little less of a burden.

1. Check Your Tire Pressure
When it comes to the snow season, people tend to go and get fuel and other necessities before the snow strikes. The best thing you can do when you go to a gas station is to check the pressure in your tires. If you’re on the low side, then add some air to help keep you going. When it snows, the cold weather can actually make your tire pressure lower in some cases. However, if you already have low pressure and you’re driving around, then there is going to be less traction in the snow. This can cause you to slip and slide which is incredibly dangerous. So, if you know you’re going to have to go out in the icy weather, make sure your tire pressure is where it needs to be.

2. Add Rugs/Towels to Entry Points
If you have kids, pets, or you know you’re going to go in and out of the house a lot, then add some rugs or towels to the entry points in your home. This will help you to combat some of the moisture that is going to trek into the home every time you enter. If you’re not walking on pure snow anymore then there is a good chance that a lot of mud is going to be trekked in too. Both water and mud aren’t a whole lot of fun to clean up and might even leave a mildew scent if you don’t clean it up well enough. So, stop the problem in its tracks and simply put a halt to the moisture before it hits your carpet. Of course, having these items down might also allow you to prevent slipping, which is another major issue that can cause a lot of trauma on top of money for medical bills.

3. Cooking Spray
When it comes to snow, cooking spray is going to be your best friend. If you’re struggling to get your sidewalks shoveled, then spray on some cooking spray and the snow will glide right off of the shovel. This will not only allow you to easily get the shoveling finished quickly and efficiently, but it will save you some money as you won’t have to purchase quick solutions to help you with the shoveling. Other than that, you may find that keeping the snow at bay in this manner can help protect visitors or anyone passing on your sidewalks as you won’t have to worry about ice build up as badly, so salting or adding litter won’t be a fruitless act.

4. Check Your Gutters
It’s easy to forget about the gutters in the wintertime. However, you should always make sure that your gutters are clean, so you don’t have to worry about dangerous repercussions. For instance, if your gutters are full, then snow is going to be more likely to stay on your roof for a longer period of time. Instead of gliding down, the snow will add weight to the roof, which could cause damage to the home. You also don’t want your gutters to be filled with items that could freeze and add even more weight to your gutters. This could cause your gutters to come loose or even fall, which will cost you a lot of money to replace. So, if you can, at least check out your gutter’s situation before a snowstorm arrives.

5. Cover Car
In an ideal world, you won’t have to go anywhere during or after a snowstorm. If this is the case, then you are definitely going to want to cover your car as much as you can. Ideally, you can park in a garage or under an awning to protect your vehicle. If this isn’t an option, then you might consider investing in a car cover. This will keep damage from the ice off of your vehicle, which can save you a lot of money. It can also make it easier for you to leave the home after a snowstorm as you won’t have to scrape ice off of the windshield or worry about your car door being iced shut. If this isn’t an option either, then you can place a sheet over the windshield to guard against the ice. Another option is to put socks over the windshield wipers to help prevent them from freezing to the glass. The more you do to protect your car from the snow, the easier it will be for you to get around when you need to.

6. Do a Resource Check
Without a doubt, one of the most important things you can do before a snowstorm is a resource check. Make sure you have emergency water on hand in case your pipes freeze. This can be one of the most crucial things to have on hand as sometimes pipes can burst or leakages can happen that can make your home’s water source dangerous for consumption. You should also make sure to have food on hand that is edible if the power goes out. If you have pets, then also make sure to have extra food for them. Another important thing that many people overlook is a source of warmth. This is incredibly important in dangerous temperatures. Whether it is a generator, something to start a fire, or an abundance of blankets, keeping warm is crucial if the power goes out.

7. Care for Pipes
Your pipes are going to be a major concern when it comes to the snowstorm. One of the most important things you can do is open up your cabinets to help your pipes get the heat from the home. You should also leave the water dripping to help keep the pipes from freezing. Your outside sprockets should also be protected though. In order to do this, you can get a simple cover for them that won’t cost more than a dollar or two. You can also go the DIY way by covering them with a rag or other insulator and adding a form of plastic to the top. This should help prevent any problems you may have, so you won’t have to spend a fortune on pipe damage.

8. Cover Plants
If your garden is something you are worried about then you are definitely going to want to take precautions when it comes to some of your fragile plants. If you’re not certain which plants you need to cover, then you might take to the internet to learn about your garden before the freeze sets in. You don’t have to spend a fortune to help protect your plants though. Putting some plastic over them is an easy way to help avoid frostbite that might kill them. It can also be helpful to add old rags and plastic to the bottom of younger trees. There are so many other helpful tips that you can discover online when you look up the specific plants that you need to assist.

9. Remove Snow From Concrete
If you’re not a fan of shoveling snow, then you might reconsider this. Leaving ice on the concrete can do a whole lot of damage that you might not want to handle when spring rolls around. Leaving snow on the concrete can become very dangerous to begin with. This is because it will turn to ice which will make it tough for you to use the concrete without having to do some majoring shoveling and de-icing. Unfortunately, in some instances, it might just be too hard to get rid of the ice as you may find yourself with broken concrete. This can be a costly and time-consuming fix that is easily avoidable.

10. Know Your Work Rights
Another problem that many people face when it snows is the inability to get to work. Before the snow begins to fall, you need to know what your rights are if you can’t get into work. You might start by looking at your paperwork to see if there are policies on this. Another option is to talk to your boss for a little insight. Often enough, many places end up shutting down anyway, but if you’re one of the unlucky few that will have to get to their shift you should know what will happen if you take the day off. You may also want to see if you can come up with a safe plan to get to work if your car can’t make the trek in the snow. This can help save you from docked pay or getting in trouble.

The snow can either be a lot of fun or a huge inconvenience. These ten tips will help you make the right call when it comes to preventing damage to your home, belongings, and even your job. With any luck, snowstorms won’t be a huge issue for you so you can easily move through the winter with less stress.

The beauty of winter is here, but most of us aren’t really sure how to handle it because of covid fears. There are so many things to do during this season, but if you’re not careful you might find yourself in a crowded area and putting yourself at risk for sickness. There are a few things you can do to make the wintertime as magical as it typically is while still helping your family and those around you to be safe. So, check out these ten ideas and have a little fun with your favorite activities, while possibly coming up with some new traditions for you and your family.

1. Snowball Fight
Without a doubt, when it snows, the kids want to go out and play in it as much as they possibly can. However, it’s not quite the same if you don’t have people to play with. A snowball fight is a very simple game that the whole family can take part in. This can help everyone bond, work out pent of emotions, and in general have some fun. You can even invite your neighbors in on the fun if you want to. Try to have a fight between your yards with everyone staying in their own space. As long as everyone wears gloves and masks, you should be fine when it comes to sickness. Plus, those gloves and masks are going to keep you warm so you can play for longer.

2. Sledding
Sledding is another activity that your family can take part in that won’t require you to put yourself at risk. If you have a place to sled in your own yard, then definitely use this. However, if you’re looking for a place to sled, then try to choose a large park. As long as you can find an area that is six feet or more away from people then you’re good to go. Sledding can help bring a sense of normalcy to the family too, especially if it is a family tradition. If it’s not, then it might be something you consider doing every year. You don’t need an expensive sled to go either. You can use items from around the house, including items that you might have for pool time.

3. Snowman Competition
Building a snowman is another great way to add to the winter fun. All this activity requires is some snow and some items brought out for your snowman to wear. However, making snowman after snowman can get a little boring, especially if you’re experiencing a lot of snow this winter. So, if you have a good relationship with the neighbors, you might call everyone up and propose a snowman competition. Everyone can build in their own yards and friends and family can drive by and rate the snowmen. This can help bring everyone together, even when you can’t all be together. If you don’t have a lot of snow, then get in touch wither everyone and ask to make snowman crafts. These can be placed in the front window for all to see.

4. Snow Science Experiments
The snowy season can be one of the best times for kids to engage in the world of science. One of the most common things for children to do is observe the snowflakes as they hit the window of the home. You can even have children take pictures of the flakes so they can make a memory book of them to observe later on. Another great option is to freeze bubbles outside, the snowflakes will form around the bubble to create a beautiful appearance. Dying the snow can also be a lot of fun that will help bring out the beauty of each flake. Of course, there are lots of other great ideas online that will help you embrace the science surrounding the snow.

5. Read a Book
Nothing says winter quite like the enjoyment of a good book. This winter, you can enjoy warmer settings, explore winter wonderlands, or simply go to a whole new world where winter isn’t a thing. Reading a book is one of the safest activities around. You can purchase really cheap books online, but you can also order them for your ebook device, sometimes for free. Apart from that, most public libraries also have an option to check out digital books now. So, you don’t have to worry about exposure to germs period during this time. Reading is also a fun activity because you can toss in a warm drink to help make the experience even more enjoyable.

6. Ice Skating
One of the best ways to enjoy some exercise while having fun during the winter months is to go ice skating. Ice skating is fairly cheap at most rinks and with covid happening most rinks are only letting a limited capacity of people in. This is an okay option, but you might also find that there are better options if you’re not feeling comfortable. For instance, if you know someone with a private rink or you live near water that is definitely completely frozen over, then this might be the safest option for you. However, if you are handy, then you can easily make your own ice-skating rink with just a bit of wood and some water. These rinks won’t cost a lot if you use scrap wood, which can definitely make your winter months more fun.

7. Knit a Scarf
Combat the cold weather with a hobby that will actually help you to stay warm. Learning to knit can truly be a challenge, but if you’re stuck at home this year then it might be one of the best times to try to learn. Scarves are one of the more common items to learn because they are pretty straightforward and allow you a bit of creativity. There are some awesome tutorials and videos online that will help you to create the perfect scarf without a whole lot of headache. This can help open up the doors to other knitted crafts too. Plus, your new scarf will help to keep you warm as you navigate the rest of winter.

8. Scavenger Hunt
Another great option for those hoping to have a little fun outside in the fresh air is a scavenger hunt. You can choose items commonly found in your area as well as those that are winter based. Simply print out a list and have your family enjoy the hunt. A scavenger hunt can be done anywhere too. If the weather is too harsh then keep it inside. If not, then take over your backyard or go to a park or trail that isn’t going to be busy. Getting out and having fun will definitely help lift your mood while allowing you to get some exercise too.

9. Experiment with Warm Drinks
Winter and warm drinks go hand in hand. So, your self-isolation time is the perfect time to experiment with the warm drinks on your list. If you’re a fan of hot cocoa, there is a lot that you can get done in order to create some of the most delicious hot chocolate around. You might consider experimenting with different powders or using straight chocolate. You can also add in flavors or meltdown some of the Christmas candy to add to the taste. Coffee and teas are other options that can help you enjoy getting warm as you drink something tasty. You can add in flavorings, experiment with milk alternatives, and so much more. By the time winter is over, you may have a few signature options that you’ll want to share with friends and family.

10. Plan for Summer
Sometimes, we’re just over winter, which might cause you to feel down. If this happens then live for summer for a little while. You might consider planning upcoming vacations, talking about sun-based activities that you might want to try, or simply look into potential summer fashion trends. This will help you to think of warmer days, which might lift your spirits immensely. You may even plan out your ideal summer garden or come up with fun ways to improve your backyard so your kids can have the summer of their lives, even if self-isolation time isn’t over yet.

Winter can be fun even if you can’t go out to do much. This year, you can explore the numerous ways to keep yourself entertained on cold days without forcing you to spend a lot of money or put yourself in harm’s way. So, try to make the most of the season as your memories will truly help to comfort you even through the trying times.

January is known for all of its amazing white sales and this year isn’t going to be any different! If you’re not already tired of shopping, then now is the time to hop online to get all of the best deals from your favorite retailers. This year, numerous stores are participating in white sales, so you’ll have a huge selection to choose from. These ten websites are offering some of the best deals around and will help you get the linens you need to make your home even cozier while we all practice social distancing.

1. Walmart
Walmart is known for having great deals all of the time. However, this month, you’re going to want to get on their website to shop around for some of the best sales around. Right now, the store is offering up to 50% off of pillows, towels, sheets, and more when you shop online. This will allow you to enjoy a wide variety of items too, so you can easily get exactly what you’re looking for and then some. Most of the deals will compare with other stores, but there are a few jaw-droppers that you might not want to pass upon. For instance, one of their best deals is a pair of twin size sheets for just $5. These sheets come in a variety of colors and are great for kids and dorm rooms.

2. Home Depot
You might be surprised to hear that this year, some of the top deals are happening at Home Depot. However, you might not want to head to the store to look for them as you may find that most will be online. The website is offering up to 50% off some of its top brand bath products and linens, which will definitely save you some big money. Some of the appliances the store offers will also be on sale, which will also help you stock up on the items you need. Best of all, many of these products will allow you to pick up the items in store if you don’t want to pay shipping fees.

3. Amazon
Amazon doesn’t actually have a specific section for their White Sales, but that doesn’t mean there are going to be hidden treats for you to enjoy in the white sales. To begin with, if you put white sales into the search engine then you will find some deals on linens, plates, and other household goods. Most of the items will be presented in white, to go along with the sale, but you’ll be able to get products in other colors too once you click on the item you’re interested in. Amazon also has a lot of bedding and other household deals featured in flash sales. You’ll have to stay on top of this so it isn’t as convenient as other White Sales, but you still might find an awesome deal or two.

4. JC Penny
JC Penny is typically one of the best places to shop when it comes to sales like this. They offer lots of different linens to choose from and their towels are top of the line too. This year, you’ll find huge savings on all common White Sale products, so you can have a little fun shopping for your favorite brands. If you notice items don’t appear to be on sale, then you may have come across an item that requires a code. Don’t worry, as the codes will appear on the product page, so you won’t have to go searching for special deals. You may even find products that are on sale and have a code, so you can save even more. While you’re searching for the White Sale products, you may also consider checking out some of the deals on clothes and shoes.

5. Kohls
If you’re looking for towels, Kohls is going to be the place to go. You won’t want to miss out on the awesome sales that are happening right now. Currently, you’ll be able to find huge towels in a wide variety of options. For instance, you’ll find gigantic towels, super-absorbent towels, fluffy towels, antimicrobial towels. You name it, you’re going to find it for just a few dollars. Plus, there are lots of colors to choose from. Apart from that, you will also find deals on linens, small appliances, and more, but nothing will compare to the towels.

6. Macy’s
This year, Macy’s is really going the extra mile with their White Sales. You will find deals on almost everything that the website offers. Of course, when you do check out their White Sales, you’ll find that they’re taking things quite literally this year. Most of the items on sale are going to be white items. You will find white linens, white clothes, white shoes, and so on. Some of the items can be purchased at the same price in other colors, but it might take some looking around. So, if you’re in the market for an iconic pair of white jeans, some white towels, or a white dinner set, then Macy’s is the place to shop this year.

7. Bed Bath and Beyond
You probably guessed that Bed, Bath, and Beyond was going to offer quite a bit when it comes to their White Sales this year. The store has lots of bedding on sale to check out on their website. You will find all sorts of styles, prints, and colors, which can help you make your bedroom all the more personable. Apart from that, the store is offering lots of other items to choose from too, if you’re looking to get even more out of your White Sales shopping experience. To begin with, you’ll find beauty products galore. There is also a great selection of baby items and toys, so the whole family can get something amazing out of the experience.

8. Bloomingdales
Bloomingdales used to be high on the list for items like this, but lately, this website has taken the back burner when it comes to the larger stores like Walmart, Target, and Amazon. This website is going to feature a lot of the same items as JC Penny and they are also taking the White Sale element literally. However, they do have a huge selection to choose from, which will definitely make it easy for you to feel confident when shopping for the perfect items for your home.

9. Overstock
If you want to branch out a little further, then Overstock might be the perfect place for you to start shopping. This website might have some of the classic items, but you’re going to find your best deals in areas like furniture. You may even be able to find the perfect new bed to pair well with the sheets you bought during the White Sales. Another item to check out on this website is rugs. They’ll be heavily discounted to help you complete the look of your home. Of course, you’ll most likely find a huge selection of items on sale on this website, so have fun expanding on the White Sales.

10. Crate and Barrel
Crate and Barrel is another website that is getting into the White Sale theme this year. Although this website isn’t typically known for low prices, you are going to find some awesome deals during this sale. One of the best things you can check out during the sale is their selection of bedding items. Namely, the duvet covers are going to be eye-catching and irresistible. You might even be able to find some of these items for under $10. There are also many beauty products on sale too, which will help you enjoy the sale all the more.

The White Sales can help you get more for your home’s comfort. These sales are a great way to improve the quality of your comfort and your budget. Plus, it will allow you to enjoy a little retail therapy now that the holiday season is over.

Whether you’re moving into the New Year working from home or in an office, there is no better time to get your office organized. Unfortunately, organizing an office isn’t always the easy thing to do. So, many people think that they need to pour money into the project in order to get the job one. There are many ways you can organize the office without spending a penny. Whether you’re going the DIY route, or you’re repurposing items, these ten ideas should get you started on your ideal level of tidiness. This can not only improve productivity but will also boost happiness.

1. Memo Boards
A memo board is one of the best ways to keep track of what is going on in your life. Memo boards don’t have to be totally boring, nor do they have to look the same as everyone else’s. When it comes to your memo board, you might consider a corkboard. These allow you to pin things in with ease, which will help you keep up with all of the things you need. However, if you think you will have more fun with a board that allows you to use sticky notes, or one that will allow you to utilize drawings, then a whiteboard might be a great option for you. There are also memo boards with brackets that add more appeal while allowing you to slip in paper and more. These days, you can even purchase small boards that can fit on the side of your computer, so you won’t miss a thing.

2. Cable Hanger
Wires can be one of the biggest eyesores in the office. On top of that, it can also be a hazard for you. There are many ways to take care of this problem though and many of the solutions come from items already in your office. For starters, if you’re dealing with surge protectors, you can easily place them on a dock, so the cords from your desk don’t spill out into the floor. Other than that, you can easily take care of your smaller cords, like USB cords, using basic office supplies. Simply add a clip to your desk and then string the cord through, so you don’t have to worry about them getting in your way. Of course, you can purchase items that also do this, which can work wonders for the décor of your space.

3. Charging Dock
It is tough having multiple gadgets lying around on your desk. It is even tougher when you have more than one that needs to be charged. Rather than hooking them all to a different charger or your computer, you might consider a charging dock instead. This will allow you to easily keep your items in one spot, so you won’t have to go hunting day in and day out for the item you need. You can also charge them all at once, which will make it totally easy for you to keep your devices going strong. You can purchase a charging dock based on the amount of charging slots that you need or simply by the way it looks.

4. Desk Shelf
No matter what is going on in your office area, one of the most helpful things that you can do is add a shelf to the mix. If you have a lot of space to work with then you might consider a shelf that works from ceiling to floor. This can help you add more bins and other storage items to your space. It will also give you more room for books. However, if you don’t have a lot of space, you might consider a shorter shelf or one that can be hung on the wall. This will still give you the extra space that you need while ensuring your desk won’t feel cluttered. This can help remove distractions from the room while making it easier for you to find what you’re looking for when you’re looking for it.

5. Monitor Stand
If you’re working on a desktop then a monitor stand might be one of the best ways that you can maximize your space while allowing you to get more out of your office. There are numerous monitor stands to choose from as well, which can help you customize the office to suit your needs. One type of stand to consider is one that lifts up so you can go between sitting and standing as you work. Another great option is a stand that has storage underneath. This gives you that extra bit of space that will keep your desk looking tidier. Choosing a clear monitor stand is a great way to create the illusion of more space, as well.

6. Lazy Susan
When it comes to creating the perfect way to utilize your supplies, a Lazy Susan won’t steer you in the wrong direction. You don’t have to purchase a huge Lazy Susan for this either. Rather, if you purchase a smaller option it will fit on your desk without taking up too much space. Once you have your Lazy Susan set up, simply add your pens, pencils, storage cups, and bins to the top and you’re set to go. This little feature is perfect for anyone that loves to accessorize with post-it notes, stickers, and more. It will also bring many of your supplies out of the desk, so you won’t forget about them in your drawer.

7. Wall Filer
If your filer tends to be a little out of control, then you might want to consider a wall filer. These amazing items can be found in single options or options that have a few different filers. The filer hangs on the wall, so you can easily sort the papers and items that you frequently need in one area. Your wall filer can be designed to suit the aesthetic needs of your home too. To begin with, you can purchase wood filers for a more rustic or library inspired design. There are also mesh designs that are perfect for a more modern style. You might even be able to find transparent plastic options if you’re hoping to keep your space roomy.

8. Compartment Tray
Sometimes, it isn’t exactly easy to keep the desk drawer clean. This is especially true if you tend to get into work grooves, and just toss things back in the drawer to help save on time while you’re working. This can create a huge mess if you’re not careful. One way to combat this is to get a compartment tray. This will help you to put everything back where it belongs quickly, so you won’t have to worry about organizing later on. These compartments can be purchased in stores, but are also simple to make on your own. If you have a little cardboard, small boxes or even muffin tins, you’re on the right path to getting organized fast.

9. Shredder
Papers tend to pile up remarkably fast, which can cause your entire organizational system to crumble. From waiting to go through papers in order to remove sensitive information to sorting recyclables within the office, getting overwhelmed by the discarded paper is very easy to do. One of the best solutions to this problem is a shredder. When you know paperwork needs to be shredded, simply send it through the shredder. You can do a lot of shredding before you have to empty the bin for recycling. This will save you time, energy, and frustration. Shredders won’t set you back too much either, which can be pretty helpful too.

10. Clear the Clutter
One problem with a lot of offices is there simply is too much clutter. This actually does work for some people, but if you find yourself feeling distracted, anxious, or tired, then your décor could be part of the problem. The best thing you can do is try to remove as much of the extra décor as possible. Try to leave one or two items that bring you joy, but after that put the rest away. You can always alternate things to keep it fresh and exciting. There have been many studies that show clutter can actually bring on anxiety, so if you follow this step you will help ease your mind while also making the organizational system much easier to handle.

An office that is organized can help bring on success in everyday business. These ten tips will help you get your office ready to work after the holidays and beyond. With a few of these ideas, you may even be able to create the office of your dreams, one organizational upgrade after another.