Brandpoint - Free Online Content http://www.brandpointcontent.com Holidaysen-us 5 Save on LG WashCombo and other appliances this Presidents Day https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42824/ 242711042824 Fri, 16 Feb 2024 15:47:00 GMT (BPT) - Do you want to save money and electricity while modernizing your home? This Presidents Day, you can do both by taking advantage of LG’s deals now through Feb. 28.

LG is committed to providing energy-efficient solutions that are stylish and dependable for a cleaner, greener home. From thoughtful appliance features to groundbreaking technology, the company considers your wallet and the planet every step of the way. Check out these Presidents Day deals on top-rated kitchen and laundry appliances that will make your life easier and help you go green.

Keep your wardrobe fresh with an LG washer/dryer

Laundry has never been easier, thanks to LG’s washer/dryer units! The ENERGY STAR®-certified appliances use ventless inverter HeatPump™ technology, so you can enjoy quiet operation, greater energy efficiency and advanced fabric care.

Take back your time by bringing home an LG WashCombo All-in-One, now $1,000 off. The innovative 2-in-1 appliance washes and dries laundry in under two hours. Once you push start, you can go about your day without pausing a project or show to flip laundry. Built-in AI takes the guesswork out of fabric care, automatically detecting fabric texture and load size and selecting the right wash motions, temperatures and dry motions level.

If you want separate washer and dryer appliances in a single-unit design, consider LG WashTower and save $900. The front-load washer and dryer takes up half the space of a traditional washer and dryer setup. With the saved space, you can add a sink, folding table or organizational storage to reinvent how you do laundry. Plus, unlike conventional stacked pairs, LG’s exclusive Center Control® panel is easy to reach.

Control and monitor both appliances via the ThinQ® app. In the app, you’ll discover ThinQ Care™, which sends usage, maintenance and diagnostic alerts straight to your phone to keep your appliances running smoothly. Meanwhile, ThinQ® UP updates your appliances’ software, adding new features without additional purchases.

Test your culinary skills with LG cooking appliances

Are you ready to take your cooking to the next level? Impress friends and family by cooking delicious meals on an LG Smart Induction cooking appliance. The energy-efficient induction technology transfers heat directly to your cookware instead of the cooktop surface for fast heating, quick and even cooking and precise temperature control.

This Presidents Day, check out LG’s LSIL6334FE Smart Induction Slide-in Range with ProBake Convection® and Air Fry. As the first EnergyStar-certified cooking model in the U.S., you can quickly and confidently prepare meals using energy-efficient induction. Also, the LG ProBake Convection® oven automatically selects the lower speed for delicate baking or the higher speed for air frying and roasting.

Want even more convenience and cooking options? Look no further than LG's LSIL6336FE Smart Induction Slide-in Range, now $500 off. You can turn out perfect batches of cookies, air fry hot wings and air sous vide meat, fish and vegetables. Also, the InstaView® Window lets you keep track of your creations without interrupting the cooking process. Just knock twice, take a peek and rest easy.

Like its laundry counterparts, the cooktop and oven are compatible with the ThinQ app, so you can control, maintain and check your kitchen appliances from anywhere.

Bundle and save even more!

You can save up to $500 this Presidents Day when you bundle two or more eligible LG appliances. Some kitchen appliances may even qualify for a $100 instant saving per item on up to four products on installation and/or haul away.

Make this Presidents Day one to remember with savings on top-tier home appliances that offer convenience and energy efficiency. To find more Presidents Day deals, visit LG.com/US/Promotions.

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Stay ahead of allergies with these 7 expert tips https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42522/ 241261042522 Tue, 06 Feb 2024 07:01:00 GMT (BPT) - Winter may not be over, but now is the time to prepare for spring allergies. As temperatures rise, pollen and other allergens will fill the air, leaving you sneezing and wheezing instead of enjoying sunnier days.

"To prepare for spring allergies, consider starting your medication at least two weeks before symptoms start," says allergist Gailen Marshall, M.D., Ph.D., president of the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI). "For many people, mid-February, around Valentine’s Day, is the ideal time to start your allergy medication routine."

The member allergists of ACAAI want to help you stay ahead of allergy symptoms this spring. Check out the organization’s top seven tips to help you protect yourself from allergens and reduce allergy symptoms.

1. Close your windows

Although your house may feel a bit stuffy after being closed up all winter, resist the urge to throw open your windows for a breath of fresh air. Leaving your windows open invites allergens like pollen into your home. Instead, keep them closed and run air conditioning to improve airflow and generate a little breeze.

2. Use filters

Even if you're careful to keep windows and doors closed, allergens can still sneak into your home. Invest in High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters for an air cleaner for a single room. Check to see that the filter has a CADR (clean air delivery rate) that matches the size of the room where it will be used. If your home has a central heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system, you can turn it into a "whole house" filtration system by installing a better permanent or disposable air filter. Remember to check and change filters regularly so you can continue breathing easily at home.

3. Change your clothes

Changing into comfortable clothes when you get home can be relaxing and help you manage your allergies. Pollen and other allergens can stick to your clothing, shoes, hats and other accessories. As soon as you get home, ditch your outside clothes for a clean, pollen-free outfit. Also, make it a habit to set these clothes in the laundry room to wash as soon as possible.

4. Add a shower to your evening routine

If you don't shower at night, it may be time to consider a switch. Rinsing off before bed can wash away allergens that cling to your hair, face and body throughout the day. It will also prevent you transferring pollen to your pillow. Best of all, a warm shower before bed can be incredibly relaxing. So, add a shower to your evening routine and wake up refreshed and ready to take on the day.

5. Know your allergy triggers

Do you know your allergy triggers? The causes of your specific allergies can vary. Whether you have pollen allergies or suffer from pet allergens or dust mites, it's a good idea to get tested by a board-certified allergist. They can help take the guesswork out of allergy management so you can better avoid allergy triggers. Also, be aware of when allergy season starts in your region. In southern climates, spring allergy season often begins as early as mid-February and can be in full swing before the first of March. It may be mid- to late March before pollen season starts in colder climates. Check the internet for the specifics of pollen levels near you.

6. Find the right medication

Is your medication effective in managing your allergy symptoms? If not, you might not have found the right match. For example, if antihistamines aren't working, it may be time to give nasal sprays a chance. You may even consider allergen immunotherapy, also known as allergy shots, which can be extremely effective for treating grass and pollen allergies and can help control asthma.

7. Talk to a professional

While there are many steps you can take on your own to keep allergy symptoms at bay, it’s always a good idea to talk to an expert. Allergists are the best-trained medical professionals to treat allergies and asthma. They can help you manage allergy challenges, so you’re better equipped to deal with them and feel better this spring and beyond.

Using these seven simple tips, you can get ahead and stay ahead of allergies. To learn more about allergies, find an allergist and find more tips to manage your allergies at ACAAI.org.

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5 ways to elevate ramen for the ultimate night in https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42440/ 240731042440 Thu, 11 Jan 2024 14:01:01 GMT (BPT) - Looking for the ultimate night in? Look no further than the deliciously comforting cup of ramen! Whether you're a novice noodle enthusiast or a ramen devotee, making ramen at home is the ultimate way to create a cozy evening filled with mouthwatering flavors.

Ramen is infinitely customizable. With the right ingredients and pairings, you can upgrade your ramen experience to create a meal you won’t soon forget. So, grab your chopsticks and check out five ways you can elevate your ramen experience this winter.

1. Create a ramen tasting experience

Upgrade your ramen game by turning it into a tasting adventure. Instead of sticking to one flavor, prepare multiple flavors and styles to sample! For example, Cup Noodles Stir Fry Rice with Noodles combines timeless Asian takeout-inspired recipes like General Tso’s Chicken, Japanese Teriyaki Chicken, and Thai Yellow Curry with bite-sized noodles and rice. For more traditional stir fry dishes, reach for Cup Noodles Stir Fry which features flavor-forward noodle selections including the vegetarian-friendly Sweet Chili, savory Korean BBQ flavor and more. Slurp through the line up and dive into a flavor journey, experiencing the unique tasting notes of each product.

2. Pair with a craft beer

For leveling up your ramen, a craft brew pairing is the perfect way to elevate your dining experience in a flavor-forward fashion. Cup Noodles recently partnered with Advanced Cicerone Mandy Naglich to pair a selection of its products with a craft beer based on their ingredients. The result - a flavor-forward Noodles + Brews pairing guide people can easily create at home. "Any eating experience can be elevated by thoughtfully pairing flavors,” said Naglich. “When noodles and craft brews come together in the perfect match, suddenly familiar flavors are revitalized into something that is memorable and fun.”

3. Add veggies for extra crunch

What makes a truly delicious bowl of ramen isn’t just the taste. Texture also plays a huge part in your dining experience. For added crunch, set out small bowls of topping options like bok choy, bean sprouts, sliced mushrooms and onions. These veggies' crispness provides a satisfying contrast to the tender noodles, taking your bowl of ramen to new heights.

4. Add in egg or tofu for protein

No meal is complete without protein! Pack your ramen with a protein punch by adding a soft-boiled egg or cubes of tofu. A perfectly cooked soft-boiled egg adds a rich taste, while tofu offers a plant-based protein option, adding more nutrition to your steaming bowl of noodles.

For a gourmet touch, try marinating the tofu in soy sauce or sesame oil. To save time, you can place the tofu cubes in a food container with your choice of marinade the night before. However, even just 30 minutes is enough to impart tofu with your chosen flavor.

5. Add a little bit of spice

Combat the cold weather with a kick of heat in your warm soup this season. Add a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce or chili oil and a dab of spicy miso paste. You can also use spicy ingredients like chili flakes or slices of jalapeno. No matter what you choose, a little bit of spice boosts a soup’s flavor and heat to warm you from the inside out during even the coldest seasons.

Elevating a bowl of ramen doesn’t have to be complicated. Using these five simple tips, you can create a truly delicious and memorable dining experience this winter. Savor your nights and fight the colder weather with a bowl of soup that will warm your stomach and your spirits.

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5 Mental Health Breaks to Help You Thrive in the New Year https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42714/ 242071042714 Thu, 11 Jan 2024 12:00:00 GMT (BPT) - You’ve done it. You’ve turned the page on another year, gliding into 2024 with a new set of goals and ambitions. But don’t forget: Progress is a marathon, not a sprint.

You don’t have to overhaul your life to invest in your well-being. (Who has that kind of time, anyway?) Incorporating simple, positive changes into your routine can help you work toward a long-term goal without adding daily stress. Try one of the five mental health breaks below for more energy to tackle new challenges and opportunities this year.

1. Embrace the power of nature

Don’t underestimate the life-changing power of going outside. Research shows that being outdoors can help decrease stress, increase creativity and improve your physical and mental wellness.

You don’t have to take a five-mile hike, either. Even small amounts of time outside can be beneficial. Go for a stroll in the park or sit in your backyard so you can soak up the sun. Notice the trees, flowers, birds and natural wonders we sometimes miss. Take a deep breath of fresh air and let nature’s calming influence wash over you.

2. Unleash your creativity

Expressing yourself through creativity can foster a sense of joy and fulfillment. It’s also a great way to find confidence and new perspectives that can be applied in all areas of your life.

Whether you paint, write, sing or dance, rediscover activities that light you up to find renewed purpose. Try your hand at DIY crafting, or test your green thumb with indoor or outdoor gardening (window-sill plants count!) Even if you find a few minutes for self-expression in the morning or before bed, you can build a practice to look forward to every day.

3. Treat yourself

Carve out moments in the day for some “you time.” Relax with a mud mask, take a long bath or simply treat your tastebuds. Invest in your well-being with better-for-you routines and remedies that leave you feeling nourished and energized, like fruit-packed Tropic Bowls from Tropical Smoothie Cafe.

Tropic Bowls start with a base of delicious acai, chia oatmeal pudding or yogurt, topped with a layer of fruit, granola, chia seeds and more. They’re perfect for breakfast or an anytime snack, ideal for taking a break in your day, whenever it fits your schedule. Set aside the to-do list and take time for yourself, creating an everyday escape.

4. Move your body

Regular physical activity can benefit your physical and mental health, so let your endorphins flow when you need a lift. When you move, you can relieve stress, regulate your emotions and strengthen the connection between mind and body.

Movement can take many forms, so focus on a style that resonates with you. Hit the gym, dance to your favorite playlist, practice yoga or take a leisurely walk through your neighborhood. No matter what you do, remember that any amount of activity is better than none.

5. Disconnect to reconnect

Technology can help us connect with others professionally and socially, but too many notifications, obligations and online time can overwhelm. Technology can even have a negative impact on your health. This year, reconnect with yourself and others by taking a break from tech.

Dedicate time each day away from your devices to be present, mindful and ready to experience the small joys in life. Even if you’re just sitting in peaceful silence, breathing easy or laughing with loved ones, enjoy the freedom and engagement of going offline.

Are you ready to prioritize your well-being in 2024? Refresh your routine and embark on a journey of self-discovery this year using these five simple tips for quick mental health breaks.

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Conversation hearts creator drops limited-edition Situationship Boxes for Valentine’s Day https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42592/ 241651042592 Fri, 05 Jan 2024 14:57:00 GMT Play Video

(BPT) - ‘Tis the season of love, and Gen Z’s newest relationship status, the “situationship” has muddied the romantic waters. Sweethearts, the beloved brand of America’s iconic conversation hearts, is leaning into this dating trend with a limited-edition release of Situationship Boxes just in time for Valentine’s Day. The specially designed boxes contain blurry, misprinted candy hearts that are as hard to read as Gen-Z relationships.

Filled with smudged Sweethearts and literal mixed messages, the ambiguous treat boxes are the perfect gift for confused singles everywhere. To purchase a box while supplies last, go to SweetheartsCandies.com.

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Level up your New Year's resolutions with the help of smart appliances https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/41074/ 232951041074 Wed, 03 Jan 2024 08:01:00 GMT (BPT) - Ready to start 2024 and improve your home life? You don’t have to do it alone. This year, achieve your New Year’s resolutions with a little help from smart appliances and apps.

Smart appliances on their own make everyday tasks incredibly convenient and simple, removing barriers that would otherwise make staying committed to your home-life resolutions a challenge. However, you can take it to the next level by using their integrated smart apps.

LG Electronics USA wants to help you live a smarter and easier life with its smart appliances and, more importantly, its integrated app. The ThinQ app is a smart hub managing all smart devices and appliances, ensuring they run smoothly and keeping you connected and in control. Not convinced? Check out three resolutions you can achieve with ease this year with a little help from smart appliances and a hassle-free app.

1. Become a home chef with ease

If you want to become a better cook so you can eat healthier, impress friends and family and explore your culinary creativity, you can achieve this goal with ease with the help of some smart technology. Even if you have limited culinary experience, smart appliances and connected apps can help you learn new recipes and control your oven, range or refrigerator with convenience.

For example, using LG’s ThinQ app, you can access recipes, order ingredients and send instructions to your smart oven or microwave. Once you know what you want to make and how to make it, use ThinQ to remotely start the proof function and bake breads, pastries and other delicacies like a pro.

The app also lets you customize time and temperature controls so you can achieve a chef-level dish every time. When you inevitably have to clean your oven after all your cooking adventures, simply remote start the EasyClean cycle.

2. Take on chores like a champ

Do you have trouble staying on top of household tasks? Smart dishwashers, washers, and dryers can make it easy to become a chore champion.

If you’ve handwashed a few dishes and just need to dry them, don’t pick up the dish towel. Use the ThinQ app and set your dishwasher for a dry-only cycle. Did you load the dishwasher but forget to start it? No worries. Just use your phone to remotely start and stop the dishwasher and check its progress. Best of all, you can use the app to download customized wash cycles for pots and pans, glassware and even pet bowls.

Don’t dread doing laundry. With a smart washer and dryer, you can care for your clothes with peace of mind. Using the ThinQ app, you can download specialized cycles and laundry settings, so you don’t have to worry about damaging your delicates. The smart technology also incrementally dispenses detergent for better cleaning. Don’t forget to use ThinQ to pair your LG washer and dryer so they can communicate over Wi-Fi and select appropriate settings based on the most recent load.

3. Handle home maintenance like a pro

Home maintenance is probably the last thing on your mind. When you’re busy getting the kids off to school, running out the door to work and staying on top of dinner, shopping and hosting loved ones, it’s easy for home maintenance tasks to slip your mind. However, a smart app and paired devices can help you stay organized and on top of tasks like a pro.

For example, the ThinQ app sends alerts to your smartphone to stay ahead of potential appliance issues and offers real-time diagnosis. Armed with this knowledge, you create proactive solutions and avoid preventable repairs and service calls.

When you link the ThinQ app with an Alexa-enabled device, you’ll know when you’re running low on laundry or dish detergent, fabric softener and rinse aid. Alexa will also automatically place an Amazon order for these products, so you don’t have to make an extra trip to the store.

Don’t worry about keeping track of your water filter. ThinQ monitors the water filter, so you’ll know when it needs replacing. Just like with your detergent items, Alexa can automatically reorder water filters through Amazon based on your usage.

A new year means a new you. This year, let LG help you become a better homemaker so you can spend more time and energy with those you love. To learn more, visit LG ThinQ | LG USA.

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4 ways to help others with your New Year’s resolutions https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42676/ 241931042676 Fri, 29 Dec 2023 09:01:00 GMT (BPT) - Instead of setting a traditional New Year's resolution of hitting the gym or reading books, you can be generous with your time and resources by setting a charitable resolution. If your 2024 resolution is to help those in need, you could get a head start by donating to a charitable organization or volunteering your time before the end of the year.

1. Identify a specific community or cause

Generosity doesn't have to be an open-ended goal. Like any other objective, you can choose a specific community or cause you wish to support as part of your charitable 2024 New Year's resolution. You may be more likely to follow through with your New Year's goal by choosing a specific, measurable resolution. For example, instead of setting your goal as "helping others," you could set a more specific goal of "volunteering X number of hours in 2024" or "donating X during 2024."

For your 2024 New Year's resolution, you can pick a community that you are a part of, a cause that is personal to you or a large-scale project you believe in. Some examples of charitable causes include poverty relief, animal welfare, world hunger projects and homelessness initiatives.


2. Choose a charity to work with

Once you've chosen your desired community or cause, you can further define your goals by picking one or two charities you want to work with. These could be groups that work locally, within your state or region, across the country or even throughout the world.

For each cause that you care about, there are countless charities and nonprofits to choose from. To narrow down your choices, look for an organization with the following qualities:

  • High impact: The best charitable organizations have a significant, tangible impact on communities in need. For example, in 2022, World Vision — a Christian humanitarian organization — spent 89% of its total operating expenses on programs that had a real impact on children, families and communities. Partnering with high-impact organizations ensures that your time and resources can make a difference.
  • Inclusive: A top-notch nonprofit impacts more than one small group of people. Inclusive charities help a wide range of people spanning ages and backgrounds.
  • Trusted: When you dedicate your time and money to an organization, you want to make sure it can stand the test of time. You can trust that your money will be well-spent when you give to nonprofits like World Vision, which has over 70 years of experience helping others and making a difference.


3. Schedule volunteer hours

Once you've chosen which organization you want to support for 2024, you can start acting. One way to move toward your 2024 goals is to volunteer your time. Many organizations offer volunteer opportunities locally and abroad — allowing you to take a hands-on approach to making a difference.

You can get started on your volunteer work before 2024 even begins! Some nonprofits allow you to schedule your volunteer work weeks or months in advance. This means that you can start planning your 2024 volunteer plan before the year starts.


4. Make a donation

Another way to support an organization or cause is to donate money. Funds donated to nonprofit organizations support programs and initiatives that create real change. Donating is also a relatively quick and easy way to divert your resources to charitable causes when you lack the time for volunteering and other hands-on approaches.

Like with volunteering, you can get a head start on your 2024 New Year's resolution by donating before the end of 2023. Any gifts to the World Vision Fund through the end of the year will be matched — up to $3 million! The deadline is midnight on Dec. 31 to double your impact for children and communities around the world.

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Fueling the future: Addressing childhood food insecurity in our communities https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42400/ 240601042400 Thu, 28 Dec 2023 06:01:00 GMT (BPT) - Food insecurity is a growing issue in the United States and poses a particular challenge for families with children under the age of 18. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, nearly 6.5 million American households with children experienced food insecurity in 2022, when they were uncertain of having or unable to acquire enough food to meet the needs of all their family members.

The winter months can be especially hard for families facing food insecurity. Extra expenses during this time of year, like higher home heating costs, often force many families to make tough choices about basic needs.

According to Feed the Children — a nonprofit focused on alleviating childhood food insecurity — higher food prices, economic instability and other factors have made providing for a family even harder, with one in five children in the U.S. being hungry this holiday season.

While there's no single solution, individuals and organizations can step up to help. For example, one company is working to support students in high-needs communities with access to food and other critical resources.

Supporting children now and year-round

Food companies play an important role in addressing this issue, often through collaboration with nonprofit groups. That's why for over a decade, Frito-Lay has partnered with Feed the Children to provide food for families across the U.S. and help achieve its mission to create more smiles and a brighter future with every bite.

At the start of the pandemic, Frito-Lay and Feed the Children recognized that the role of schools in the United States was changing. Due to this shift, they expanded their partnership by launching Building the Future Together. Schools across the country are often providing more than just education. The partnership strategically evaluated what was needed most and set out to create a program that enables school districts to provide students and their families with everyday essential items and other much-needed resources.

“Food security is more critical than ever and as a food company, we have a responsibility to do our part to ensure students and families have what they need to succeed,” said Nikki Jolly, Senior Manager of Corporate Citizenship and Social Impact at PepsiCo Foods North America. “We believe that when our communities thrive, we all thrive.”

Supplies such as shelf-stable food items, hygiene products, books and more are given to school districts to distribute to students and their families throughout the school year and whenever they are needed most. The products stocked in schools’ resource rooms can be a lifeline for families, especially in times of tragedy.

“We had a family impacted by a house fire and spent time in temporary housing, hotels, etc.,” said a staff member at Phoenix Union High School District. “We were able to tell this family to save money for living expenses and visit the resource center weekly ­­­­— and sometimes biweekly — for food, snacks and hygiene products.”

So far, the program has served over 110,000 families and has provided nearly 1.5 million pounds of resources. In its fourth year, Building the Future Together has launched in some of the highest-needs cities across the country to provide additional support to local school districts, including Atlanta, Dallas, Detroit, Houston, Los Angeles, Orlando and Phoenix.

Schools that have participated in the Building the Future Together program say they've seen a 63% increase in school attendance and student engagement, a 38% increase in student confidence and a 25% improvement in student grades. The measurable impact of this program allows more students to complete their education, setting them up for greater financial stability and independence for themselves and their families.

“Food insecurity is often invisible,” said Feed the Children President and CEO Travis Arnold. "We rarely know what someone else is going through, which is why we need to take care of our neighbors. Feed the Children is thankful for the partnership with Frito-Lay and their support of the Building the Future Together program as we tackle the important issue of childhood food security."

There is still more work to be done to address childhood food insecurity. During the colder months, get into the spirit of the season and do your part to help children and their families receive what they need to succeed. To learn more or donate, visit FeedTheChildren.org.

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Take on the new year with these 4 simple tips https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42244/ 239691042244 Wed, 27 Dec 2023 15:01:00 GMT (BPT) - After a holiday season of parties and entertaining, it's time to get back into our wellness routines and take on the new year ahead! It can be easier than you think to make 2024 a year of positive changes. To help you create some healthy balance, Registered Dietitian Nutritionist Dawn Jackson Blatner shares a few helpful tips.

1. Prioritize self-care through sleep

Self-care isn't just a buzzword or trend. If you want to improve your well-being after the holidays and beyond, it's time to double down on self-care, especially sleep. Just one night without enough sleep can leave you feeling drowsy, low energy, slow and irritable, according to Sleep Foundation.

This year, make your life easier and invest in your whole health by setting and maintaining a consistent sleep schedule. Aim for seven to nine hours of sleep each night so you can wake up refreshed and ready to take on the day. It’s helpful to create a relaxing bedtime routine, like reading a book or taking a warm bath, to let your body know it's time to wind down.

2. Set clear, achievable goals

As we shift out of the holiday season, you may be thinking of how you can achieve your ambitions and change your habits in the new year. When setting goals, make sure they're clear and achievable. When you set unrealistic expectations, it's easy to get overwhelmed and abandon your resolutions.

So, this year, be realistic so you're more likely to achieve your goals and reap the benefits. Start by breaking your goals down into small, manageable steps. For example, if you want to work out more, don't start by hitting the gym every day. Instead, start small by aiming to get active two to three times a week. Once you meet this goal, you can build on it!

3. Add nutrient-rich foods

After the holidays, you don’t need to overhaul your entire eating routine. Simply give your health a boost by adding foods rich in essential vitamins and nutrients to each of your meals and snacks. For example, add berries into your morning oatmeal, put extra veggies on a sandwich, or grab mixed nuts and hard-boiled eggs instead of processed chips for a quick snack on the go.

Eggs are great for not only snacks, but also for meals like scrambled eggs for breakfast or shakshuka for dinner. Opting for Eggland’s Best eggs will ensure you’re getting superior nutrition in your diet, as they contain six times more Vitamin D and more than double the Vitamin B12 compared to ordinary eggs, to help boost immunity and wellness during cold season and keep you energized throughout the day.

4. Try new flavors

With a new year comes new responsibilities, new activities and overall busy times. It can be easy to fall into the habit of the same boring meals for breakfast, lunch and dinner that neglect wholesome ingredients.

To expand your palate and try new flavors, consider unique, better-for-you recipes when meal planning. Set a goal to cook a new recipe every week, inspired by a culture or nationality that you’ve been wanting to test out, like this delicious Bacon, Jalapeno, Red Onion and Spinach Scramble with Queso Fresco from Eggland's Best. This recipe is sure to energize your mornings and set a positive tone for the day — and year — ahead!

Bacon, Jalapeno, Red Onion and Spinach Scramble with Queso Fresco

Prep time: 10 minutes; Cook time: 10 minutes; Serves 4

Ingredients

· 8 Eggland's Best eggs, large

· 6 thick slices of bacon

· 4 cups baby spinach leaves

· 1/2 cup red onion, slivered

· 1 jalapeno chile, stemmed and thinly sliced, seeding optional

· 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

· 1/2 teaspoon kosher or sea salt, to taste

· 1/4 teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper, to taste

· 1/4 cup crumbled queso fresco, farmer's cheese or mild feta

Directions

1. Set a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the bacon and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally until browned and crispy. Using a slotted spoon, remove bacon and reserve it in a bowl. Remove all bacon fat from the pan and add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the onion and jalapeño and cook for 2-3 minutes, until wilted but not browned. Incorporate the spinach, mix, and continue cooking for a couple of minutes until completely cooked and wilted.

2. Meanwhile, in a small bowl, beat the eggs and season with salt and pepper.

3. Reduce heat to medium-low, pour eggs over the spinach mixture and as they cook, scramble with a wooden spoon or spatula. Cook to desired doneness. For tender eggs, cook them for 2-3 minutes. Top with the browned bacon bites and queso fresco.

To find other delicious recipes to incorporate into your meal routine in 2024, visit EgglandsBest.com.

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Make Wish Kids' hope bloom with a festive bouquet https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/40333/ 228841040333 Thu, 21 Dec 2023 15:01:00 GMT (BPT) - The holidays are a time of joy and celebration, but this year may be less cheery for some families. This holiday season, more than 4,000 children will receive a devastating diagnosis. To help raise their spirits, Make-A-Wish and Teleflora — the world's leading floral delivery service — have banded together to make these children's dreams come true.

Teleflora hosted a Wish Tree activation at Westfield Century City to raise funds for Make-A-Wish, supporting the nonprofit's mission of creating life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses. During the event, participants wrote their holiday wish on a Make-A-Wish star ornament and placed it on the Teleflora Wish Tree. Each wish shared contributed $5 toward Teleflora's total campaign donation and was doubled to $10 when shared on social media using #WishOutLoud.

A holiday of wishes

The Wish Tree event isn't the only way Teleflora is helping Wish Kids this holiday season. The floral delivery service has also launched "A Holiday Wish," an ad that follows a little girl gloomily spending the holidays in the hospital.

The ad explores her interaction with a kind nurse who brings joy to her and all her fellow children in the hospital. The nurse is later surprised by the girl's parents, who leave a Teleflora holiday bouquet on his desk with a note that reads, "Thank you for being there for our daughter."

"At Teleflora, we believe in the power of humanity and its potential to deliver hope and drive change," said Danielle Mason, vice president of marketing, Teleflora. "With this campaign, wishes are the currency to help deliver life-changing holiday moments. Through a simple gesture, everyone can join us in delivering hope and healing to wish children and their families in an engaging and accessible way."

Help spread holiday cheer

In the spirit of granting wishes, Teleflora is encouraging America to #WishOutLoud now through Dec. 31. You can get involved by shopping for Teleflora Bouquets. The company will donate 15% of the purchase price from all sales of its Send a Hug® North Pole Penguin Bouquet and Teleflora's Send a Hug® Warm Wisher Tree to Make-A-Wish.

Teleflora bouquets are beautifully curated arrangements always made by hand and delivered to your doorstep by a local florist. Each bouquet comes complete with a festive keepsake container that can be incorporated into home décor for years to come.

In addition to buying a beautiful bouquet for your home or as a last-minute gift for a loved one, you can support Wish Kids by joining Teleflora's social media movement. Share your holiday wish on Instagram or Facebook on a @Teleflora #WishOutLoud post. For each comment, Teleflora will donate $5. For each new post created sharing a wish with #WishOutLoud, Teleflora will donate $10, up to $250,000.

"A child's joy is a light of hope for all of us, especially during the holiday season," said Leslie Motter, president and CEO of Make-A-Wish America. "For children with critical illnesses, a wish can create a turning point in their treatment and recovery, making a meaningful impact in their lives and the lives of their families. We're grateful to Teleflora for helping us deliver more hope to communities nationwide."

To learn about Teleflora and how you can participate in making children's wishes come true this holiday season, visit Teleflora.com/Wish.

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Kick off the new year with a healthy smile! Your 2024 guide to proactive oral health https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42507/ 241151042507 Thu, 21 Dec 2023 09:31:00 GMT (BPT) - Are you ready to take on the new year with healthier habits and a boost of confidence? Then, it's time to make your oral health a top priority! Not only does investing in your oral care create a healthy smile, but it can also improve your overall well-being. According to the University of Illinois Chicago College of Dentistry, good oral health is a leading health indicator and is important for communication, human relationships and even financial prosperity.

If you want to be dentist-ready and feel your best in 2024, check out these five simple oral hygiene tips.

1. Consistency is key

The first step to a yearlong healthy smile is consistency. As your 2024 New Year's resolution, promise yourself to make and maintain a consistent oral hygiene routine. Brush your teeth at least twice a day for a full two minutes, and pay attention to how you're brushing. Gently brush over your teeth and gums in a soft, circular motion.

2. Upgrade your oral health routine and toothpaste

Invest in your smile by upgrading your toothpaste and going to the dentist at least two times a year. Staying on top of your oral health routine and finding the right toothpaste can make a huge difference. Choose a toothpaste like Colgate Total Plaque Pro-Release, which offers long-lasting 24-hour antibacterial protection after two weeks of daily brushing.

The unique breakthrough formula penetrates hard-to-reach places to fight plaque bacteria along the gum line. It's clinically proven to significantly reduce harmful plaque bacteria associated with gingivitis and help you get ahead of oral health problems before they start.

3. Watch what you eat and drink

You're probably aware that sugary drinks and snacks can damage your smile, but acidic foods and drinks also pose a threat. According to the American Dental Association, products high in acids can wear away the enamel protecting teeth, making them vulnerable to cavity- and infection-causing bacteria. However, you don't have to say goodbye to acidic foods and drinks entirely. Instead, limit them in your diet and opt for alternatives to save your teeth from excessive wear and tear.

4. Hydrate to be great

Staying hydrated has so many positive health effects, including supporting a healthy smile. For example, drinking plenty of water helps maintain saliva production. Why is saliva important? Because it rinses away bacteria and neutralizes acids in your mouth. Saliva is your body's natural defense, so make sure you maintain a steady supply by hydrating.

5. Keep learning, keep smiling

When it comes to oral health, knowledge is power. Make sure to read the latest oral health tips so you can take an active role in your smile's health. For example, follow dental associations on social media so you can stay up to date on dental care recommendations. As recommendations change, you can adjust your oral care routine to better care for your smile.

Let 2024 be the year you double down on your oral health using these five tips. With a little time and care, you can be dentist-ready this year and beyond.

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Smart holiday shopping tips to prevent big bills in January https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42463/ 240911042463 Thu, 21 Dec 2023 09:01:00 GMT (BPT) - The holiday season is all about celebrating with family and friends. But unfortunately, making the most of this festive time of year can also come at a cost. That becomes clear in January when the credit card bills show up — including bills for higher phone plan usage.

To help avoid the pain of post-holiday sticker shock, finance expert and author of New York Times bestseller "Zero Debt: The Ultimate Guide to Financial Freedom" Lynnette Khalfani-Cox — also known as The Money Coach — offers her money-saving tips for enjoying the holidays without breaking the bank.

"Shopping smart now makes all the difference when January rolls around," says Khalfani-Cox. "So make the most of the deals and offers that might only be available around the holidays, and your bank account will thank you!"

Here are her tips for making sure your holiday mood doesn't come to a halt when the January bills come due.

1. Make your list — and check it twice

Setting a budget for holiday shopping and making a list of who you're shopping for — then sticking to it — is the smartest way to be sure you don't end up with unexpectedly high bills next month. Where possible, consider going in for group gifts, or choose gift cards for picky gift recipients so you can control exactly what you're spending — and that they'll love what they get.

"Keep a running list of what you're spending, whether you shop online or in person, to stay on track," advises Khalfani-Cox. "It's all too easy to overspend when you're not writing down every purchase."

2. Dive into deals to make the holidays bright

Comparison shopping is the name of the game when it comes to finding the best deals for everything from gifts to holiday hosting must-haves. And that doesn't stop at items to check off your holiday list. While you're comparison gift shopping, check out the latest discounted deals from phone providers like Straight Talk Wireless, a no-contract carrier from Verizon. In fact, Straight Talk is now offering 6 months of free service with the purchase of the Samsung Galaxy A13 and one month of the Straight Talk Silver. This deal can help you stay connected with far-flung family and friends throughout the holiday season and beyond, for a lot less. Plus, it’s available exclusively through Walmart, so you can get all your other holiday shopping done, too.

3. Maximize rewards and loyalty programs — smartly

If you frequently shop from one store or brand, or if your credit cards offer cash back rewards for purchases, first make sure it's something you really want to buy before signing on. Loyalty programs are great and can save you money, as long as it's something you know will make a great gift for someone on your list.

"Choose programs and memberships that don't cost anything up front," Khalfani-Cox advises, "so you'll be a lot merrier when you take advantage of the savings!"

4. Always read the fine print

No matter what you're purchasing — but especially for high-priced or tech products — look out for hidden fees or costs. Read carefully to know what you're signing up for, whether that's a protection plan or autopay you may not need or want, and what the store's policies are.

"When you're spending your hard-earned money, you'll want to be sure you know the store's policies for returning items, or if they offer a price-match guarantee if you see the same item for less somewhere else," says Khalfani-Cox.

5. Gift experiences or home-made items

If you're looking to save money, consider gifting some people on your list a special homemade lunch at your home, a visit to a favorite local attraction together or home-baked goodies. For some gift recipients who are tough to shop for — or who don’t really want more "things" — a shared experience or heart-felt homemade present can be much more meaningful.

"The joy of the holiday season shouldn't come with mounting bills," Khalfani-Cox says. "With these tips, you can celebrate the spirit of the season with your loved ones — with less financial stress."

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Gift-giving platform makes wishes come true with a little help from you https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/40332/ 228841040332 Thu, 21 Dec 2023 07:01:00 GMT (BPT) - Young adventurer Yuval has always dreamt of exploring the world. In fact, travel is the #1 way he and his mother, Avital, bonded. However, he had to put his adventures on hold when he became sick.

When he was 7 years old, Yuval's mom found a lump on his neck that turned out to be lymphoma.

"I was heartbroken and lost," said Avital. "I couldn't take one breath of air without pain all over my body."

However, the brave little adventurer faced aggressive cancer treatment with determination. Today, there's no evidence of his disease. And he got to celebrate his travel wish with the help of Make-A-Wish and its donors.

Yuval's greatest wish was to ski and explore Alaska. He got to do that and more! During his adventure in the Alaskan wilderness, he not only skied but also snowmobiled, snowshoed and even had the opportunity to go dog sledding. Best of all, he got to do it all with his best friend, Chase. With this adventure under his belt, Yuval is ready to continue to explore more of the world around him and reclaim the time he lost when fighting illness.

Donors make dreams possible

Turning Yuval and other children's dreams into reality wouldn't be possible without the help of Make-A-Wish sponsors like Snappy. This year, Snappy — the leading gifting company — hit a huge milestone, donating $2 million to Make-A-Wish.

Snappy is an all-in-one gifting company that spreads joy, shares gratitude and takes the guesswork out of gifting. The company connects people and cultivates meaningful relationships through the power of gratitude and gifting. Its "recipient-picks" experience ensures gift-givers send the perfect gift every time, for everyone, on every occasion. It even allows recipients to donate the value of their gift to a charity of their choice.

Businesses can use the online platform to purchase gifts for employees, business partners, clients. It's these gift recipients who opted to donate the value of their gift to help support the transformative wishes of children with critical illnesses that have made Snappy's significant achievement possible.

"At Snappy, we are so grateful to witness the profound impact of individual generosity," said Hani Goldstein, Snappy co-founder and CEO. "When members of our community choose to donate their gift's value to Make-A-Wish, they create a cascade of positivity. The philanthropic potential of our platform has made us deeply thankful for the kindness of our gift recipients and the wishes they've made possible for these children and their families."

Wishes aren't just fun activities. When a child's wish is granted, it can create hope even in the most challenging situations.

"A wish creates an immediate turning point in a child's treatment and recovery, and partnerships like Snappy's make more of these life-changing wishes possible," said Leslie Motter, president and CEO of Make-A-Wish America. "There's a gap between the number of wishes we're granting and the number of wishes waiting, and we're thrilled for Snappy's support to help us close that gap."

This holiday season and beyond, help Make-A-Wish and Snappy fulfill more wishes while also finding meaningful gifts for those in your life. To learn more about how you can help make a child's wish come true, visit Wish.org.

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4 Tips to Gift Safely and Avoid Gift Card Scams This Holiday Season https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42447/ 240791042447 Wed, 20 Dec 2023 15:19:00 GMT (BPT) - Holiday spending is expected to reach record levels this year. While many families got an early start in October to land hot deals and avoid crowds, gift cards remain one of the hottest items toward the end of the season, landing in the top three gifting items heading into Super Saturday, according to the National Retail Federation.

In fact, U.S. consumers will spend about $300 on gift cards this year — up from $217 last year — according to the 2023 Deloitte holiday retail survey. But, as popular as gift cards are, experts warn that gift card scammers are getting more and more creative each year.

That’s why Walmart has compiled tips from experts across the industry on how to stay vigilant this holiday season. These include:

No legitimate business or government agency will ask you to buy a gift card as a form of payment

Gift card scammers often start with a call, text, email or social media message directing consumers to buy one or more pre-paid gift cards as a quick form of payment. They often play into emotions, telling victims there’s a problem with their Social Security, an emergency, a loved one is in trouble or they’ve won the lottery, for example.

Requests that claim to be from the government, tech support or a utility company are a red flag. No matter what they say, no legitimate business or government agency will ever ask consumers to buy a gift card as a form of payment, according to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).

Buy direct and keep receipts

Planning to buy a gift card? Purchase it directly from a trusted retailer or the business issuing them. If purchased in-store, ensure packaging hasn’t been tampered with. Still unsure? Check with a store associate. Many major retailers like Walmart train associates to identify gift card scams.

Report suspicious gift card requests

Report suspicious requests to gift card issuers right away. There should be instructions for how to do so on the back of the card. Always keep receipts, as they can come in handy when reporting gift card scams to the issuing company.

Many organizations like the FTC and AARP have fraud prevention helplines. Informing these organizations of suspicious experiences can help make a difference.

Stay informed and be vigilant

Being vigilant and keeping these tips in mind can keep customers from falling victim to costly gift card scams.

Such was the case recently when a local Minnesota police chief’s own family member almost fell prey to a scam but was thankfully thwarted by vigilant Walmart associates at two different stores when they refused to sell the would-be victim $4,000 in gift cards after identifying signs that she might be a victim of fraud.

As part of Walmart’s ongoing effort to help protect our customers, Walmart is donating $5 million in media to consumer groups that educate consumers on how to avoid becoming a victim of gift card fraud.

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Outpace PSVT in 2024 by investing in heart health https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42536/ 241351042536 Wed, 20 Dec 2023 13:01:00 GMT (BPT) - The holiday season can be a stressful time for many people. Travel, family gatherings, reminders of personal loss and much more can lead to high stress and anxiety levels, excessive eating and excessive consumption of alcohol or caffeine. Over time, these stressors can lead to health issues such as heart arrhythmias, which impact millions of people in the U.S. today.

One of the most common types of heart arrhythmias is paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (PSVT), commonly referred to as SVT. About 2 million Americans are living with SVT or PSVT, with approximately 300,000 new patients diagnosed each year. While anyone can develop SVT, it’s more common among women than men, accounting for 65% of SVT diagnoses.

Symptoms and diagnosis

A normal resting heart rate is between 60 and 100 beats per minute. However, people with SVT have debilitating and sudden episodes of extremely rapid heart rate, often exceeding 150 to 200 beats per minute. These attacks can start and stop without warning and last from seconds to hours.

Symptoms of SVT can be scary for patients and those who care about them. Rapid heart rate associated with SVT often causes severe palpitations, shortness of breath, chest discomfort, dizziness, lightheadedness and distress. SVT symptoms often force patients to limit their daily activities, impacting their quality of life.

Diagnosing SVT can be frustrating. For some patients, it can take years to be diagnosed, which can breed doubt of the health care system and no treatment plan. Also, there is a significant unmet need for patients experiencing the physical, emotional and psychological burden of highly symptomatic episodic attacks associated with SVT.

Taking care of your heart health

While there’s no way to completely prevent symptomatic SVT episodes, you can take steps to manage your heart condition. During the holiday season and to kick off the new year in good heart health, it is important to consider the following tips from Dr. James Ip, cardiologist at a premier medical institution in NYC, to help manage potential heart arrhythmias, including SVT.

  1. If you experience any severe chest pain, shortness of breath, light-headedness or fainting, call 911 and/or seek emergency assistance.
  2. If you are not in distress, lay down and try to stop the arrhythmia yourself by performing a breathing exercise or vagal maneuver such as the Valsalva maneuver (bearing down like forcing a bowel movement) or splashing cold water on your face. If this does not work, seek medical care if your symptoms persist.
  3. Consider obtaining a device that can generate an electrocardiogram (ECG) (such as a KardiaMobile, Apple Watch, Fitbit, Samsung Galaxy Watch, etc.) to record your rhythm during your tachycardia episodes and share this information with your doctor.

Talk to your doctor about treatment options

Medical providers are displeased by the lack of effective treatment options for SVT. Today, treatment often requires a prolonged, unpleasant and costly trip to the emergency room. For some patients, an invasive catheter ablation procedure may be required that may not alleviate all episodes. Therefore, the medical community understands there is a need to identify a potential novel treatment approach.

Take proactive steps to protect your heart health during the holidays and beyond. If you believe you’re experiencing SVT or similar cardiovascular symptoms, talk to your doctor about your concerns and potential treatment options. To learn more about SVT, visit OutsmartPSVT.com.

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The ultimate holiday wishlist: Essential appliances for every home https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/41073/ 232951041073 Tue, 19 Dec 2023 10:21:00 GMT (BPT) - Gift-giving and the holidays are practically synonymous, but you've likely forgotten to get a gift for someone special. Can you guess who? You! LG Electronics USA is here to help you pick out a present that will bring you joy during the holidays and beyond. Check out these nine appliances that will bring cheer, convenience and comfort to your daily life.

1. Smart induction slide-in electric range oven

Upgrade your cooking experience with the Smart Induction Slide-in Range with InstaView®, ProBake Convection®, Air Fry and Air Sous Vide. The all-in-one range transfers heat directly to your cookware for faster and safer heating, even cooking and precision temperature control.

Equipped with an InstaView Window, you can see inside without opening the door, keeping the heat inside where it belongs. Cleaning is a breeze with the EasyClean Oven feature that cleans the oven without chemicals or high heat in just 10 minutes!

2. Smart combination wall oven

Cook like a pro and maximize your kitchen space with the Smart Combination Wall Oven with InstaView®, True Convection, Air Fry, and Steam Sous Vide. The versatile appliance uses TurboCook and Infrared Heating™ to cook up to four times faster than other wall ovens.

You can easily monitor the internal temperature of a dish by simply inserting the built-in Temperature Probe. Once it has reached the desired temperature, the oven turns off automatically. Other features include an EasyClean Oven, Backlit LED SmoothTouch® Glass Controls and a PrintProof® Finish.

3. Smart top control dishwasher

Dishwashing will be easier than ever before with the Smart Top Control Dishwasher with 1-Hour Wash & Dry, QuadWash® Pro, TrueSteam® and Dynamic Heat Dry. The ultimate one-hour wash and dry cycle uses LG's exclusive QuadWash® Pro and Dynamic Heat Dry™ technologies.

Experience efficient, pro-level cleaning with high-pressure jets that offer 38% more cleaning power than similar models. You won't have to worry about food residue because TrueSteam® technology penetrates deeply to take care of any leftover scum, leaving 60% fewer water spots. Like all LG dishwashers, it's certified by the National Sanitation Foundation (NSF).

4. Smart French door refrigerator

Keep your food fresh and organized in the stylish 26 cu. ft. Smart InstaView® Counter-Depth MAX™ French Door Refrigerator. The standard-capacity refrigerator offers a sleek, counter-depth design with 25% more space.

The refrigerator also uses linear cooling, a three-layer air filter and the ThinQ app, which automatically connects to your smartphone to notify you about usage, maintenance suggestions and early diagnosis for repairs. Let this fridge bring convenience and style to your kitchen!

5. Smart front-load washer

Transform your laundry routine using LG's 5.0 / 4.5. cu. ft. Mega Capacity Smart Front Load Energy Star Washer with TurboWash™ 360° and AI DD® Built-In Intelligence. Its TurboWash™ 360° features five powerful jets that clean big loads in just under 30 minutes. Also, you can clean 18 loads with one easy fill of detergent.

Built-in AI technology gets smarter with every wash, taking the guesswork out of laundry. Meanwhile, Smart Pairing™ can tell the dryer to select a compatible drying cycle. Say goodbye to allergens. The washer reduces dust, pollen and pet dander in fabrics by more than 95% and is certified asthma and allergy friendly by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA). Even if you don't enjoy laundry, you'll be thankful for how easy this washer makes this necessary household chore.

6. Single-battery cordless stick vacuum

Are you ready for hassle-free cleaning? LG's CordZero™ Cordless Stick Vacuum Single Battery should be your go-to appliance this season. The LG Smart Inverter Motor™ offers powerful suction, backed by a 10-year limited warranty for lasting peace of mind. With an 80-minute runtime, a portable charging stand and easy maintenance thanks to the ThinQ App, you'll easily handle everyday cleanups.

7. All-in-one cordless stick vacuum/mop

Take cleaning to the next level with the CordZero™ All in One Auto Empty Cordless Stick Vacuum with Auto Empty & Power Mop. The appliance comes with a vacuum to wet mop technology so you can clean any surface.

The stick vacuum quickly transforms into a hand vacuum with a telescopic wand. When you're done, dock the appliance and watch as the docking tower cleans it of dust and debris. Kompressor technology easily compresses dirt and dust with 2.4 times more bin capacity. Comes with two batteries, so you can tackle long cleaning projects.

8. Smart steam closet

Freshen your wardrobe with the gentle power of steam using the LG Styler® Smart Wi-Fi Enabled Steam Closet with TrueSteam® Technology and Exclusive Moving Hangers. Its TrueSteam® technology lets you care for hard-to-wash items without chemicals, so you can continue to wear them again and again with little to no hassle.

Certified by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA), the steam closet helps remove airborne allergens while deodorizing and freshening items. The innovative appliance is ThinQ compatible, sending proactive alerts right to your smartphone to keep your steam closet running smoothly. No need to call an electrician or plumber for installation. The sleek, simple design can be plugged in anywhere!

9. Air purifier

Breathe easier with an air purifier like the LG PuriCare™ AeroTower™ Air Purifying Fan. This must-have appliance uses an Advanced True HEPA filter to capture 99.97% of fine dust and allergens as small as 0.3 microns. Smells will be a thing of the past thanks to the deodorizing filter that reduces odor and harmful organic compounds. Not to mention LG's exclusive UVnano™ LED technology kills 99.9% of bacteria on the fan blades, so you can breathe healthier air. Plus, three airflow options and a fan will keep you cool year-round.

This holiday season, don't settle for the ordinary! Invest in these essential home appliances to upgrade your everyday life with comfort, convenience and efficiency. To learn more about these and other appliances, visit LG.com/US.

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Best Gifts for Everyone on Your List https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42130/ 239681042130 Fri, 15 Dec 2023 14:33:00 GMT Play Video

(BPT) - It's the most wonderful time of the year, but if you have yet to make your list (never mind check it twice!) it may be the most stressful. Gift-giving does not need to be daunting if you think thoughtfully and shop smartly! Lifestyle Contributor Lisa Mauriello is here with her must-have holiday guide to help you give great gifts this season. To learn more, visit Freddys.com, GiftCards.com/Multi-store, and BombPop.com.

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Raisin’ the Festive Fun: 5 Recipes from Sun-Maid to Help 'Pull Off the Holidays' With Stress-Free Entertaining https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42600/ 241681042600 Fri, 15 Dec 2023 11:45:00 GMT (BPT) - The holiday season is upon us, and with it comes the flurry of festivities — parties and family gatherings bring joy and merriment but it’s easy to get overwhelmed by the task of entertaining, especially if you’re in charge of cooking.

Luckily this year, Sun-Maid is here to help you pull off the holidays and make decking the halls easier than ever. The secret ingredient? Raisins.

From bite-sized appetizers to delicious entrees and decadent desserts, these dried fruits are a versatile addition that will add the perfect hint of sweetness to any holiday dish. Rediscover the magic of holiday entertaining with these five recipes from Sun-Maid that are as simple as they are scrumptious and, most importantly, let the season be sweet and stress-free!

1. Raisin Puff Pastry Tarte Soleil

If there’s one appetizer that will seriously impress your guests, it’s the French-inspired tarte soleil: A pull-apart puff pastry with a twisted design. This version takes a savory route with artichoke hearts, feta cheese and spinach, while adding natural sweetness with Sun-Maid Raisins. The flaky puff pastry is topped with a homemade gremolata for a vibrant and fresh taste.

2. Pesto Raisin Orzo

This four-ingredient, easy-to-make side dish requires minimum prep time and is a sweet-and-savory addition to any holiday meal. Plus, it makes enough to please a crowd. Simply cook the orzo, mix in pesto, raisins and feta cheese, and you’re done in less than 15 minutes.

3. Pinwheel Cookies

If you’re looking for a new cookie to add to your holiday repertoire, this is an easy one that looks as delicious as it tastes. The pinwheel filling includes the natural, nutty sweetness of raisins and toasted walnuts — and they only take 15 minutes in the oven!

4. Holiday Cinnamon Spiced Popcorn

This is a fun and festive snack that’s perfect for party favors or a unique addition to your next cookie exchange gathering. Don’t forget to sprinkle in raisins at the end for added sweetness.

5. “Forget Fruitcake” Cookies

Created by celebrity pastry chef, TV host and recipe matchmaker Duff Goldman, this slightly more elaborate dessert is sure to wow your loved ones. Since there are a few extra steps in this one, Chef Duff advises prepping the ingredients and dough ahead of time for stress-free baking.

Bid farewell to holiday headaches and let these tasty treats and dishes inspire your time in the kitchen during the holidays and beyond. For full recipes and more innovative ideas, visit www.sunmaid.com/pullofftheholidays.

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Gifts with purpose: How to embrace a regenerative holiday season https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42518/ 241251042518 Wed, 13 Dec 2023 16:01:01 GMT (BPT) - This holiday season, rise above the noise of excess and gift with purpose by selecting presents that champion your values. Consider purchases that restore ecology, improve livelihood and ensure animal welfare for farming communities. To support a sustainable and regenerative future, give clean and nourishing food and beverages. Rather than relying solely on sustainability labels, explore products actively contributing to communities and ecology.

A simple and effective approach is choosing companies certified by the Regenerative Organic Alliance, particularly those holding the Regenerative Organic Certification (ROC). These companies employ regenerative organic agriculture practices, meeting stringent environmental standards while upholding specific ethical and social criteria that enhance soil health, ensure social fairness and prioritize animal welfare.

To help you get started, here are some standout companies from the ROC product directory offering perfect gifts that can be shipped directly to loved ones (or enjoyed at home as a well-deserved indulgence) this festive season.

Say happy holidays or thank hosts with a great bottle of wine

Bonterra Organic Estates, nestled in Mendocino County, leads in regenerative organic viticulture. They employ time-honored methods like sheep grazing, cover cropping and compost application to nurture the soil. Situated at an elevation of 2,235 feet in the mountaintops of Mendocino's rugged North Coast of California, their fruits boast intense and rich, complex flavors — a testament to the interplay of high altitude and maritime microclimate.

Known for exceptional wines, their ROC-certified The Bonterra Estate Collection features favorites like Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, and limited edition Red Blend. Priced at $22, these wines are widely accessible at retail, making it a perfect choice for enthusiasts. Their pioneering position as among the first globally certified Regenerative Organic Certified wines adds an additional layer of distinction to these remarkable offerings.

For those seeking an elevated experience, Bonterra.com offers single vineyard wines, including The Butler Red Cuvee 2020, The McNab Cabernet Sauvignon 2020 and The Roost Chardonnay 2020.

Elevate spirits with premium-quality coffee

Ampersand Coffee Roasters sources 100% organic coffee grown with cutting-edge regenerative organic farming techniques and uses 100% fair trade policies to empower coffee farmers and guarantee a minimum price for their coffee even when markets fluctuate. The organic agriculture practices for their sourced coffee encourage techniques like crop rotation, companion planting, biological pest control, mixed cropping and the fostering of insect predators.

The company also partners with the International Women's Coffee Alliance and Cafe Femenino to support gender equality in coffee-growing regions. Consider their ground or whole bean coffee for gift-giving, or gift subscriptions for the coffee devotees in your life.

Unearth treasures for tea enthusiasts

If you've heard of Jeju Island, South Korea, it's probably due to their famous women deep-sea divers. But the island's rich volcanic soil and mild sea mist produce something else noteworthy — excellent tea. Wild Orchard's exclusive partner farm on Jeju relies on natural sea winds to keep pests at bay, and benefits from fertilization offered by organically raised geese.

Over two decades ago, the first tea trees were grown from seeds (not cuttings) planted directly in the volcanic soil, causing them to develop extremely deep roots. Left largely untouched until recently, the trees grew wild to become larger and hardier than those grown on most traditional tea farms, for a superior final result.

Or surprise a tea aficionado with something truly unique: Yaupon tea, a refreshing brew derived from a naturally caffeinated native American plant that has 60% of the caffeine of coffee and a flavor profile similar to green tea.

CatSpring Yaupon is a woman-led company that uses sustainable practices to produce this flavorful drink. The plants are wild-grown with no added water, and hand-harvested. The company also uses a "people first" hiring policy that works with probation officers to hire individuals looking to create a new future for themselves, as well as hiring women with a history of generational poverty.

Pick up stocking stuffers like the tea sampler bag at CatSpringTea.com and a variety of loose and bagged teas at WildOrchard.com.

Gift single origin extra virgin olive oil

SIMPLi connects people around the world through the joy of food. The co-founders sought to bring the best single-origin ingredients from around the world to the market in a way that equally benefits people, producers and the planet. Simpli's 100% Greek Extra Virgin Olive Oil, perfect for gifting, plays a proactive role in land regeneration, carbon sequestration, and resource conservation on a significant scale.

Knowing that what you give others will benefit the planet makes every gift more meaningful to you as well as to the recipients of your carefully chosen gifts. You can feel good about everything you're giving this holiday season using these criteria for your shopping.

Bonterra Organic Estates, Hopland, Mendocino County, California. Please drink responsibly. Learn more at Responsibility.org.

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How employers and employees can benefit from mental wellness resources https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42511/ 241181042511 Wed, 13 Dec 2023 09:01:00 GMT (BPT) - If you're in charge of making the holiday magic happen, you could be feeling a bit overwhelmed. Between organizing gatherings, buying gifts and attending seasonal events, your holiday sparkle may be a little dim. And for many, personal tragedies and local, national and global conflict have made it difficult to feel the joy of the season.

Given all these stressors, it's critical to practice self-care so you can strengthen your well-being, which is the foundation for good mental health. Only when you take care of yourself will you have reserves to draw upon to take care of what needs to be done for your family and at work. While there are things you can do on your own to unwind and recharge, there are times when you'll need to tap into expert support.

Seeking out professional help may seem daunting, time consuming or inaccessible. The good news is you may already have mental wellness resources at your fingertips through your employer.

How your workplace can be a mental wellness resource

Many companies have prioritized employee mental wellness by incorporating counseling services into their Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) and incorporating trusted clinical partners such as R3 Continuum. In fact, according to Deloitte, organizations with more than 20,000 employees have invested an average of $11 million a year in resources that drive health, well-being and productivity improvement. Typically, these services are available at no cost to the employee.

But even employees at small companies have resources. If you're not aware of or haven't used your employer-provided wellness resources, you're not alone. According to Deloitte, more than two-thirds of workers don't use the full value of well-being resources offered by their organization. But given how many waking hours Americans devote to their careers, it is becoming increasingly apparent that employers must support well-being at a greater scale, and the demand for mental wellness support has grown. Today, it is easier than ever to access licensed, experienced clinicians who can help employees manage uncertainties, stressors and anxieties, thanks to company leaders who recognize that they must support every employee’s whole self.

Talk to your human resources team about the services offered by your employer. When you connect with a qualified mental health professional, you can feel more confident participating in holiday activities that offer familiarity and comfort, and truly embrace the season.

What employers can do to better support their teams

Resilient employees build, sustain and grow high-performance companies, but offering mental wellness resources isn't enough if employees aren't using them. To build an emotionally healthy and thriving work culture, employers should educate their teams to recognize early signs of behavioral health struggles and encourage them to use the resources provided.

Turning to trusted resources like R3 Continuum, experts in behavioral health and recovery after workplace disruption, makes it easy for employers to invest in their employees’ mental well-being. By working with R3 Continuum, employers can fortify their current EAP to deliver a broad range of behavioral health services. Even members of the C-suite can benefit by accessing leadership coaching that helps executives build a sense of resilience and improve decision-making skills, empowering them to lead by example.

"There are several ways workplaces benefit from supporting the mental well-being of employees, such as decreased absenteeism and presenteeism, improved work satisfaction, improved work engagement, increased productivity, greater creativity and innovation, and the ability to retain and attract top talent," said Dr. George Vergolias, chief clinical officer at R3 Continuum, in an interview with Authority Magazine. "Workplace leaders have a choice to pay now by investing in a reasonable amount of time and resources to support the mental well-being of employees or pay later and squander an unreasonable amount of time and resources managing maladaptive behaviors."

During the holiday season and every day, tending to your personal well-being is vital. Ensure you are taking time to take care of you. Talk to your HR team about the mental wellness services offered through your workplace.

HR leaders and executives who want to offer clinical-level support and invest in wellness for everyone in the company can connect with R3 Continuum at https://r3c.com/.

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5 festive twists on classic eggnog for the holiday season https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42039/ 239131042039 Wed, 13 Dec 2023 08:01:01 GMT (BPT) - The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to celebrate than with a classic festive drink like eggnog? Shamrock Farms, a family-owned-and-operated dairy brand, has crafted rich and flavorful products, including seasonal favorite eggnog, for 100 years. A timeless holiday drink that has delighted folks since the 16th century, has evolved across cultures worldwide. While sipping it straight is wonderful, there are plenty of fun and creative ways to enjoy this traditional holiday drink.

Now, Shamrock Farms has released a must-try eggnog, perfected over three generations, exclusively at Aldi: Vanilla Spice Eggnog.

Shamrock Farms is no stranger to putting a modern twist on a classic favorite. Check out these five favorite festive ways to use their newest creamy Vanilla Spice Eggnog made from a custom blend of spices and sweet vanilla flavor this holiday season.

1. Eggnog Hot Chocolate

Elevate your hot chocolate by blending it with Shamrock Farms Vanilla Spice Eggnog for a cozy, new holiday favorite. Whether you’re fixing it up for yourself or the kids, eggnog hot chocolate is a great addition to your holiday drinks roster. Make sure your hot chocolate is made with delicious, quality eggnog by shopping for Shamrock Farms Traditional, Lite or Irish Whiskey — and the new Shamrock Farms Vanilla Spice Eggnog available at your local ALDI while supplies last.

Simply heat up your favorite hot chocolate, stir in some Shamrock Farms Vanilla Spice Eggnog and add a pinch of nutmeg. Add an extra dash of holiday cheer with a spray of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon and enjoy.

2. Eggnog French Toast

Infuse the holiday spirit into your breakfast with eggnog French toast! Swap out milk for Shamrock Farms Vanilla Spice Eggnog in your go-to French toast recipe for a sweet, custard-like breakfast treat. Finish with powdered sugar, syrup, whipped cream, nutmeg and cinnamon.

3. Eggnog Cocktails

Spiked eggnog is a favorite adult holiday drink and serves as a perfect base for a variety of cocktails!

Whether you mix up an Eggnog Martini or White Russian, experience the warm, inviting flavors to pure, great-tasting cream and milk of Shamrock Farms Vanilla Spice Eggnog, a recent addition to the Shamrock Farms lineup. These modern twists on a classic drink will delight your guests. Best of all, you can turn any eggnog cocktail into a mocktail by simply omitting the alcohol.*

4. Eggnog Cookies

Freshly baked holiday cookies are a staple of the season. Add Shamrock Farms Vanilla Spice Eggnog to the mix to take your sugar cookies to the next level. Bring out the eggnog flavor in these sweet treats by adding nutmeg and rum extract to your recipe. Don’t forget to pick up a pack of holiday cookie cutters to make your cookies stand out at the next family gathering or holiday party.

5. Eggnog Bread Pudding

Bread Pudding is a crowd-pleasing dessert that you can bring to any holiday gathering. Make this classic dessert even merrier by infusing it with Shamrock Farms Vanilla Spice Eggnog! Lifestyle influencer, Erin O’Brien, is known for her delicious takes on everyday dishes. Here she upgraded the standard bread pudding recipe with the merry addition of Shamrock Farms Vanilla Spice Eggnog. Follow @Erin O’Brien’s recipe for the most mouthwatering results:

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.

2. Place bread into a baking dish and sprinkle with cranberries.

3. In a large mixing bowl, combine Shamrock Farms Vanilla Spice Eggnog, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg and a pinch of salt. Whisk until well combined.

4. Pour mixture over the bread and let it sit for 10-15 minutes.

5. Drizzle melted butter overtop and bake for approximately 40 minutes or until the top is golden brown.

6. Meanwhile, in a saucepan over medium-low heat, add eggnog, butter and sugar. Once warmed and all ingredients are well combined, add rum and cook for 1-2 more minutes. Pour over the bread pudding and enjoy!

Raise a glass (or plate) and cheers to a holiday fan-favorite! Let these five Shamrock Farms Vanilla Spice Eggnog-based holiday treats inspire you to craft your own festive creations!

*Drinking alcohol may be harmful to your health and addictive. Please drink responsibly. If you have a problem with alcohol, please visit Responsibility.org.

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Practical presents for tech enthusiasts: 5 ideas to spark joy https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42465/ 240911042465 Wed, 13 Dec 2023 08:01:01 GMT (BPT) - Are you struggling to find the perfect gift for your tech-savvy loved one? Don’t worry. Tech-Life expert Jennifer Jolly knows the best gadgets and tech-ish tools for all the tech lovers in your life. Here are a handful of her top picks to help spark joy this holiday season.

1. Smartwatch with fitness tracker

For your health-conscious loved one who’s always on the go, Jennifer says a smartwatch with fitness-tracking features “hits the target every time.” On its own, a smartwatch is an invaluable gift your friend or family member will use every day with useful features like notifications, voice commands and music playback. However, smartwatches that track steps, heart rate, sleep patterns and sports activity can help users push their limits to reach (and even exceed) their fitness goals in the new year.

2. Smartphone

Do you have a preteen who has been begging for their first smartphone? Or has your spouse hinted that they’d like to upgrade their current model? The holidays are a great time to give your loved ones a gift that keeps on giving, and a smartphone is exactly that.

Jennifer says there are some great deals if you know where to look and cautions people of those “free” device offers that actually lock you into a two-year contract and end up costing $150-$300 more than the upfront price of the phone.

For a better option, take a look at Total by Verizon’s Holiday Deal: Now through the end of the year, people who switch to one of Total by Verizon’s Unlimited plans will get a free Samsung Galaxy A13 5G phone, for free, no strings attached. The Galaxy A13 offers quick, virtually lag-free downloading and streaming with awesome connectivity and a long-lasting battery that charges up fast. Your loved ones can use their new smartphone to capture holiday memories on video or photo using the high-res triple camera. Best of all, you can add four lines for $25 per line with Auto Pay. For more information, visit TotalbyVerizon.com.

3. Bluetooth Speaker

Audiophiles, rejoice! With a portable Bluetooth speaker, music lovers can enjoy their favorite beats while relaxing at home, out with their buddies, or anywhere they want to get their groove on. Make sure to look for dustproof and water-resistant models so your loved one doesn’t have to worry about using their new favorite gadget in the great outdoors.

4. VR glasses

For those in your life who value a truly immersive experience, virtual reality (VR) glasses are a must. You can choose from high-end options for at-home use or mobile options that work with a user’s smartphone so they can slip into the virtual world wherever, whenever. Whether they choose to explore virtual worlds, visit exotic locations or play immersive games, they can do it all with this handy gift.

5. Portable power bank

Make sure your loved ones can stay connected by gifting them a power bank. A powerful portable power bank is one of the most practical tech items you can gift a friend or family member this season. A power bank allows them to charge nearly any electronic product at home, in the office or when traveling by car, train or plane.

Jolly Holidays!

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Surprise holiday hit: Luxe bidet seats are the gift everyone will love https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/41518/ 235291041518 Tue, 12 Dec 2023 14:11:00 GMT (BPT) - What if you could give a gift that loved ones would use every day? Something that would enhance their well-being and comfort with a touch of luxury. Such a unicorn gift does exist: bidet seats.

The average person visits the bathroom multiple times a day and spends more than 90 minutes on the toilet a week. Bidet seats enhance this time, plus their popularity has soared since the pandemic, with people putting a new focus on personal hygiene, luxury at home, and overall self-care.

For years, you could only find bidets in high-end spas and hotels, but more people are upgrading their bathrooms by adding bidets into their homes. Bidet seats come with a wide range of features from basic attachments with cold water to high-tech electronic bidet seats like the line of WASHLETs from TOTO with temperature-controlled warm-water cleansing, heated seats, personal drying, and more.

A bidet seat is the unexpected gift that will thrill your loved ones and totally change their daily routines. Easy to install, TOTO’s line of WASHLET bidet seats are perfect for a variety of people, and with models starting under $500, there is one for everyone on your gift list.

The new homeowner or renter: Bidet seats fit most standard toilets and are easy to install without the need for a plumber. They are great for homeowners and renters looking to transform their bathroom by adding elements of luxury. Installation is as easy as changing out your toilet seat. One option to consider is the WASHLET C2, which has variable air drying, automatic air deodorizer, automatic EWATER+ (electrolyzed water) wand cleaning and bowl PREMIST to keep the toilet cleaner.

The expecting/new parents: Pregnancy can make it awkward to use the bathroom. And post-partum care and cleansing can be a real challenge. TOTO WASHLET bidets offer moms a warm seat and personalized cleansing options that provide gentle warm water cleansing and drying without the strain of trying to reach to wipe with harsh toilet paper. Plus, bidets can soothe inflammation and soreness, and reduce the risks of concerns like UTIs. Moms and dads will love the WASHLET C5 that has dual action spray with oscillating and pulsating water massage features, slim wireless remote and on-demand wand cleaning with EWATER+ option.

The self-care king/hygiene queen: More doctors are recommending washing with water for numerous health benefits. Using a TOTO WASHLET bidet seat is more hygienic and comfortable than toilet paper, offering unparalleled confidence and cleanliness without the itch and discomfort that can come with toilet paper. Using a bidet can even help reduce and ease hemorrhoids and help with issues like Crohn’s disease or IBS. Consider the WASHLET S7 for continuous warm water and energy savings, four users' personalized memory settings, night light, seamless seat design and automatic open/close lid.

Gifts for environmentally conscious: Bidet seats provide comfort and cleansing while using 75% less toilet paper. Eliminating just one roll of toilet paper saves 37 gallons of water, according to Scientific American. Self-cleaning features reduce the need for frequent cleaning and the use of harsh chemicals. Adding a WASHLET bidet seat to a low-flow, water-saving toilet can make a significant difference in your household’s water consumption. Also, TOTO does not just make sustainable products, it is a global leader in sustainability practices.

Gifts for the traveler/person on the go: People are back in travel mode and want to feel their best whether they’re going near or far. The Travel WASHLET provides a portable, personal version of TOTO’s popular bidet technology for when you are away from the comforts of home or in a less than ideal restroom situation.

Whether a special gift to a loved one or a gift to yourself, adding a bidet seat to an existing toilet is a quick DIY way to turn a bathroom into a personal sanctuary. This accessible luxury provides comfort and hygiene and makes self-care a priority all year long.

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3 mess-free holiday gifts perfect for your little artist https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42495/ 241041042495 Tue, 12 Dec 2023 13:31:00 GMT (BPT) - The holidays are a great opportunity to encourage your child’s creative spirit. However, cleaning up after your little one’s masterpieces can sometimes be tedious. Luckily, you don’t have to choose between letting your budding artist color creatively or a clean home. This holiday season, Crayola is here to help reduce cleanup with its mess-free Color Wonder products. In fact, the Crayola Color Wonder line is the #1 Brand in Marker Paper systems, according to the Numerator Color Wonder 2023 study.

With the Color Wonder markers to paper technology, the markers only show up on specially formulated Color Wonder paper, not on skin, clothing or furniture. This means no stains on surfaces not meant to be used as a canvas. Color Wonder encourages creative freedom, keeping kids busy and engaged while allowing hands-off play for parents. Kids can now explore their artistic side and parents can let them create without worry! Check out three of the latest and greatest mess-free holiday presents perfect for your emerging artist.

1. Crayola Color Wonder Fingerprint Activity Book

Your mini-Picasso can get hands-on with their art using the Color Wonder Fingerprint Activity Book, a new, mess-free way to fingerpaint! The kit offers all the fun of fingerpainting without the messy color mixing or need to wash hands in between colors! Each set comes with an ink pad tray inclusive of five assorted ink colors and a 27-page activity book.

2. Crayola Color Wonder Activity Pads

Take the magic of mess-free creations on the road with Color Wonder Activity Pads! As found in all Color Wonder line products, markers will only reveal color on the specially formulated Color Wonder paper. Your kids will be excited knowing they can take their favorite characters like Spidey & His Amazing Friends, Paw Patrol and Disney Princesses on every car, plane or train trip. Each spiral-bound coloring pad offers 16 coloring pages, three Color Wonder Markers and marker storage.

3. Crayola Color Wonder Mess-Free Coloring Pages & Markers

Crayola Color Wonder Mess-Free Coloring Pages & Markers are great for keeping kids busy and creating all holiday season long. The envelope-style packaging doubles as a unique storage solution, keeping markers and coloring pages all in the same place and allowing coloring activities to be taken on-the-go or used at home. Available in kids’ favorite characters, like Bluey!

Gifts for the holidays and year-round!

These Color Wonder products are three of many great mess-free products Crayola has to offer. Beyond the holiday season, Color Wonder makes for excellent presents year-round, thanks to the convenience, creative fun and kid-favorite characters. According to Crayola, nine in 10 shoppers shared that they planned to purchase again after buying, using and loving their Color Wonder set.

Breathe easy this holiday season with Crayola Color Wonder mess-free gifts. Best of all, kids will love them just as much as their parents! Find Color Wonder and other favorite Crayola products at Walmart, Amazon, Target and additional retailers nationwide.

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Gifts to upgrade your kitchen this holiday season https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42485/ 240971042485 Fri, 08 Dec 2023 14:01:00 GMT (BPT) - The holiday season can be hectic, from hosting family gatherings to cooking and gift shopping. Whether you’re a first-time host or your loved ones regularly gather at your home to celebrate the season, you’ll need some help in the kitchen. Make hosting easier this season and beyond with help from stylish and powerful kitchen appliances.

KitchenAid is your go-to partner for all your gifting and hosting needs. This season, check out the KitchenAid Go Cordless System of countertop appliances. The innovative ecosystem eliminates countertop chaos in the kitchen. Every KitchenAid Go appliance is powered by one interchangeable and rechargeable battery for cord-free, powerful making.

These cordless small appliances cater to all lifestyles, unlocking the freedom to make wherever, whatever and however makers choose this holiday season and beyond. Best of all, they double as gift ideas to make even the hardest-to-shop-for loved ones smile.

1. Hand Mixer

With a hand mixer, you can whip up wonderful creations. Compact, lightweight and versatile, a hand mixer can help you easily make smooth cookie batter, perfect whipped cream, tasty icing and decadent chocolate mousse. Its usefulness isn’t limited to baking. Use your hand mixer to whisk eggs, beat potatoes and mix dressings for holiday dinners and everyday meals.

2. Hand Blender

Hand blenders allow you to easily puree and blend without the cumbersome process of transferring ingredients from pot to blender and back. Simply submerge the blending arm into your ingredients to blend and you’ll have creamy soups, smoothies, milkshakes and more!

3. Food Chopper

Chopping can be time-consuming and dull, especially if you make numerous main and side dishes for a holiday get-together. A food chopper allows you to precisely chop, dice and mince ingredients, shortening prep time so you can get on with other cooking tasks. It’s especially useful when chopping onions. With your food chopper, you can say farewell to onion-induced tears and tedious chopping marathons.

4. Personal Blender

Are you always on the move and need quick meals? Can’t start your day without your morning smoothie? A personal blender is exactly what you need. Blend your favorite fruits and veggies directly in the portable cup and go! Your personal blender will quickly become your new best friend and is a great gift for health-conscious family members who value convenience and ease.

5. Coffee Grinder

Pre-ground coffee gets the job done, but freshly ground coffee can elevate your morning routine with a more flavorful cup of joe. Wake up to the fragrance of freshly ground beans this holiday season with a coffee grinder. This game-changing appliance offers one-touch control that quickly grinds whole coffee beans and will delight any coffee connoisseur, who will be happy to make it part of their morning coffee ritual.

6. Kitchen Vacuum

Cleaning as you go is an indispensable kitchen habit, but it can be challenging. Make cooking and hosting easier on yourself with a kitchen vacuum. With this powerful kitchen vacuum, you can easily take care of crumbs, flour and other dry meal prep messes so you can focus on the finishing touches to your holiday meal.

Bonus!

The brand’s iconic Stand Mixer is the champion of the kitchen and a popular perennial gift and kitchen necessity. While hand mixers are great for small to medium-size kitchen projects, a stand mixer is what you’ll need for mixing, kneading and beating when cooking for a crowd. A stand mixer isn’t just an appliance. It’s your trusty sidekick for all your large dinner gatherings.

If you regularly host dinner parties for loved ones during the holidays and year-round, gift yourself the KitchenAid 7 Quart Bowl-Lift Stand Mixer. With 11 distinct speeds, this Stand Mixer gives you the power and control from high to low and everything in between. It even has a half speed to gently fold fragile ingredients like egg whites for festive meringue cookies.

If you still need a present for a cook or baker in your family, check out the KitchenAid Artisan Series 5 Quart Tilt-Head Stand Mixer in Juniper. Like basking in the lush shade of a towering Juniper tree, this color is the perfect blend of rich green with a touch of balancing blue, finished off with a crisp sparkle, like fresh morning dew.

Any (and all) of these kitchen appliances will make entertaining friends and family a breeze. Whether you gift them to yourself or others, there’s no way you can lose this holiday season with these seven little helpers. To learn more, visit KitchenAid.com.

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Gifts that Deliver Joy and Benefit Kids with Critical Illness https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/40325/ 228841040325 Fri, 08 Dec 2023 13:41:46 GMT (BPT) - When Stella, age 7, completed her cancer treatments, she wanted to celebrate. This called for more than just cake — she wanted a “Stella-bration” with her friends, family and the incredible nurses and doctors that helped her during her cancer treatments.

Make-A-Wish® brought Stella’s vision to life, creating a truly memorable celebration after months of grueling treatments. She wanted a carnival-themed party with games, pony rides and a competition where she would finally get to race her dad — a special family tradition that her dad told her could happen once she finished her initial round of treatments.

Life-changing wishes

This incredible celebration lived up to Stella’s vision and then some — and she even won the race against her dad. This one-of-a-kind event was deeply meaningful for Stella and her family. After months of worry while navigating a difficult health diagnosis, they got to enjoy time together while their little girl’s personality shined brightly for all to see.

Make-A-Wish is a nonprofit that creates life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses like Stella. Headquartered in Phoenix, Arizona, Make-A-Wish is the world’s leading children’s wish-granting organization, operating in every community in the United States and in nearly 50 countries worldwide.

Together with generous donors, supporters, staff and more than 24,000 volunteers across the U.S., Make-A-Wish delivers hope and joy to children and their families when they need it most. Make-A-Wish aims to bring the power of wishing to every child with a critical illness because wish experiences can help improve emotional and physical health. Since 1980, Make-A-Wish has granted more than 550,000 wishes worldwide; more than 350,000 wishes in the U.S. and its territories alone.

If you’re planning your holiday gift-giving, you can embrace the spirit of the season by selecting gifts that provide the opportunity to give back. This sentiment is important in your personal holiday gift-giving but can be equally meaningful for corporate gifts.

A sweet opportunity

For thoughtful corporate gifts, consider Sugarwish, a Denver-based, women-owned and certified gifting company. Sugarwish provides a fun gift experience that allows the recipient to choose the gift they receive including a wide offering from treats to beverages, flowers, plants and more! It's a delightful experience, combined with a robust Corporate Gifting Platform that makes it the perfect go-to gift for individuals and businesses alike.

Sugarwish is a proud partner of Make-A-Wish, helping make sweet wishes come true. Sugarwish gift recipients can elect to donate their gifts to Make-A-Wish, which can be converted to cash to help grant wishes or used to help enhance life-changing wish experiences for kids like Stella. Through the partnership, Sugarwish has raised $1 million for Make-A-Wish and has helped enhance thousands of wish kid experiences across the U.S.

Available now, Sugarwish has created a give-back link that will benefit Make-A-Wish at Sugarwish.com/us/Make-A-Wish. When new corporate accounts are created through the Make-A-Wish give-back link, the first Sugarwish will be free to send for the new company/account. After that, Make-A-Wish will receive a donation from Sugarwish equal to 10% of the funds loaded into the new corporate Sugarwish account.

You can make a difference for kids with critical illnesses like Stella. When you opt for holiday gifts that support nonprofits like Make-A-Wish, everyone can feel good and enjoy an even happier holiday season.

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The Holiday Table’s Most Versatile Ingredient: Eight Ways to Leverage Raisins and Other Dried Fruits at Every Course https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42449/ 240811042449 Fri, 08 Dec 2023 11:45:00 GMT (BPT) - The holidays are nothing without spending time with friends and family — and, of course, decadent treats! Whether you and your loved ones prefer a sweet or savory dessert, there is something we can all agree on this holiday season: versatility is key when it comes to pleasing all taste buds and palates!

Raisins are an incredibly versatile dried fruit and can be used in the sweetest or most savory of dishes. They perfectly complement the flavors of beloved holiday desserts, adding depth, complexity and delicious taste. From cookies and cakes to puddings and donuts, raisins infuse a delicious burst of rich flavor that will elevate this year’s holiday dessert table.

To demonstrate the imaginative possibilities when cooking or baking with raisins, Sun-Maid teamed up with celebrity pastry chef, TV host and recipe matchmaker, Duff Goldman, to create exciting new recipes that put a fresh spin on festive favorites.

“Raisins are a tasty addition to any breakfast, entrée or dessert as they bring a natural sweetness and chewy texture to any dish,” said Goldman. “If your family and loved ones are anything like mine, there will always be opinions on what to include in the seasonal spreads. Using raisins in my favorite dishes and sides this year has been a huge hit, and truly elevated my dinner and dessert tables. This versatile ingredient will not only broaden taste bud horizons but also give holiday classics the burst of flavor they need.”

Must-try holiday menu items from Sun-Maid and Chef Duff include:

  • Forget Fruitcake Cookies: The perfect fusion of apricots and golden raisins with a scrumptious jam filling sandwiched between layers! This indulgent and flavorful alternative is a colorful addition to any cookie tray.
  • Bacon Raisin Cornbread Chicken: If you’re looking for a tasty main dish, look no further than this mouthwatering blend of savory and sweet that will effortlessly become the star of any dinner party.
  • Peanut Butter and Raisin Halvah: This Middle Eastern confection gets an appetizing upgrade with peanut butter, peanuts, milk chocolate and raisins. Each bite-size piece will leave you grinning from ear to ear.
  • Pinwheel Cookies: With a fun swirl design perfect for holiday festivities, pinwheel cookies are an enjoyment for the eyes and the taste buds when they feature your favorite dried fruit — raisins!
  • Sweet and Savory Golden Lamb: Whether it’s a brunch, luncheon or multi-course meal, this recipe featuring ground lamb, dried fruit and a delightful blend of flavors will be the highlight of any gathering.
  • Truce Cookies: Are you a chocolate chip cookie kind of person or do you prefer oatmeal raisin? With this dish, you don’t have to choose. Each cookie features half of each, so you can enjoy every bite to the fullest.
  • Crown Challah: Whether you make it solo or with family, this traditional bread has long been part of holiday gatherings across the world. This version is a subtly sweet take on a classic, thanks to ingredients like raisins, honey and cinnamon.
  • Holiday Biscotti: No matter if you prefer tea, coffee or hot chocolate, these biscotti made with dried apricots are the perfect complement to a hot beverage and meaningful conversation with friends and family.

“Whether it’s a tasty treat or a hearty main dish, let these ideas inspire you in the kitchen throughout the holiday season!” Duff adds.

For full recipes and more innovative ideas, visit www.sunmaid.com.

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Arizona families celebrate Aflac Holiday Duck each year with neighborhood tradition https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42540/ 241381042540 Thu, 07 Dec 2023 10:03:00 GMT Play Video

(BPT) - Sales of popular plush provide support for pediatric cancer and blood disorders research and treatment

It was December 2005 and Julie Goodhue of Scottsdale, Arizona, was in the middle of an otherwise routine visit to the hair salon when something caught her eye. A gentleman sat down in the chair next to hers and handed his hairstylist a gift — a small, stuffed duck wearing a scarf and hat and sitting on a sled.

“I leaned right over and asked him where he got that cute thing,” Julie recalled. “No one has ever described me as shy,” she added with a chuckle.

“I’d never seen one before, but I knew I wanted one. Our kids weren’t even little anymore … they were already in college, for goodness sake … I just loved it so much.

“And that’s how our Aflac Holiday Duck tradition began.”

First introduced in 2001, the Aflac Holiday Duck — a plush, limited-edition collectible released each year by The Aflac Childhood Cancer Foundation, Inc. — helps raise funds that are distributed by the nonprofit to hospitals that provide pediatric cancer and blood disorders research and treatment throughout the U.S.

Seventeen years of Aflac Holiday Ducks later, Julie, 67, admitted she still gets excited to see each year’s new design. But what started out as a small family tradition has now grown to include gifting ducks to friends and neighbors. She will give out 16 this year — but first, the fanfare.

For the last 10 years or so, on the Sunday evening after Thanksgiving, the nine families that make up “The Kings Avenue Gang” have gathered at the Goodhues’ home to kick off the holidays. They ceremoniously — with an “official big switch” — illuminate the display of lights that husband, Bob, has carefully placed along the house and yard. They enjoy piping hot chocolate “even when it’s been 80 degrees out.” And then … the “pièce de résistance.” The Big Reveal.

“It started after our first grandchild was born, the official unveiling of the newest Aflac Holiday Duck,” Julie said. Now, granddaughters Brynn, 10, and Claire, 8, help decorate the house with the assortment of Holiday Ducks they’ve collected over the years. An extra-large Aflac Duck, a gift from her brother, Jack, watches over the family room all year long and gets a sparkly headband or festive hat with each holiday. When everything is just so, Julie puts the holiday duck of honor in place and covers it with a cloth — she’s the only one allowed to see it before the big moment.

Then, without “feather” ado …

“We gather around and make a big fuss when the girls remove the cloth! Everyone seeing the latest Holiday Duck for the first time together … they love it!”

Natives of Mercer Island, Washington, Julie and Bob, both retired now, moved to the Phoenix area with their children, Robert and Laura, in 1990. University of Washington football fans and season ticket holders, they rarely miss the opportunity to see their Huskies play. There is one game, however, that Julie doesn’t mind missing.

She may be a huge fan of the Aflac Holiday Duck, but Ducks of the University of Oregon kind — the biggest rivals of her beloved Huskies — are a totally different story.

“I can’t even go to the Oregon-Huskies game because I’m afraid of how I’ll react, and so is my husband,” she admitted with another chuckle. “The ONLY ducks allowed in my house are my Aflac ducks. Period.”

“You may think I’m joking,” she added. “I’m not joking.”

What is it about the annual keepsake that she loves so much?

“They play such an important role in our Christmas,” she said. “And I love that donations go to help children with cancer and blood disorders. A fantastic cause.” It’s also one that means more than ever this year, as her best friend’s grandson passed away in July from a rare blood disease.

To date, net sales of Aflac Holiday Ducks have provided over $4 million to hospitals around the U.S. that treat pediatric hematology and oncology patients.

Julie said that probably the biggest reason she’s kept the tradition is because the Aflac Holiday Duck has brought the people in her life so much joy.

“In this day and age — all the time, but especially now, it seems — people need joy,” she said. “And I like being able to help spread some of it to my friends and family with these little ducks.”

The 2023 Aflac Holiday Duck wears a festive cap and scarf and holds a warm cup of cocoa with marshmallows in his wings. He is available in 6-inch ($12) size at AflacChildhoodCancer.org. Net proceeds of all sales go to The Aflac Childhood Cancer Foundation Inc. to help support pediatric cancer and blood disorders research and treatment at participating hospitals across the United States.

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How to Have a Happy & Gut-Healthy Holiday Season https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42550/ 241451042550 Thu, 07 Dec 2023 10:01:00 GMT (BPT) - The holiday season is filled with sugar and spice and everything nice — like parties, beloved traditions, festive foods and time with loved ones. And while all of these are things to be enjoyed, they can also lead to gut health woes as your eating habits and routines are thrown a bit out of whack.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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How to enjoy getting ready for the holidays https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/41863/ 237831041863 Thu, 07 Dec 2023 02:01:00 GMT (BPT) - The season is full of activity, fun and festivities — but it can also be somewhat stressful, especially if you feel unprepared. To make your holiday season go more smoothly this year, do a little advance planning so that you can spend more time relaxing with family and friends.

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

1. Take a pantry inventory

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

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

2. Ensure you have the bakeware you need

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

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

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

3. Keep it simple

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

4. Make a schedule, check it twice

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

5. Enlist some elves

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

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

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

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Walmart+ Hits a High Note with Members Looking to Sleigh the Season https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42078/ 239431042078 Wed, 06 Dec 2023 15:43:00 GMT (BPT) - It’s the most wonderful time of the year, but dashing through the snow for parties, plays and presents may have you longing for a silent night. Now a Walmart+ membership is bringing joy to the world for the busiest of families this holiday season.

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

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

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

Holiday Classics Streaming with Paramount+

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

The Gift of Member Savings on Fuel

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

Walmart+ Travel, Santa Approved

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

The Gift of Free Shipping with No Order Minimum

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

Early Access to the Hottest Deals

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

Returns from Home

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

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

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6 expert ways to nurture friendships during the holiday rush https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/41847/ 237701041847 Wed, 06 Dec 2023 13:31:00 GMT (BPT) - The holidays aren't just a time to spend with family. They're also a great opportunity to connect with friends. In fact, according to a recent Bumble For Friends survey*, over half (54%) of U.S. respondents actually prefer to spend the holidays with friends they consider 'chosen family' over their relatives.

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

1. Be intentional with your time

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

2. Check in on your friends

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

3. Make a festive food or drink together

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

4. Mail a holiday care package

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

5. Have a holiday movie marathon

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

6. Create new holiday traditions

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

Maintain and form new connections

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

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

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

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

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Brett Eldredge’s Top 10 Holiday Decor Picks https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42114/ 239681042114 Wed, 06 Dec 2023 12:47:00 GMT (BPT) - This is it, folks. Platinum-selling recording artist Brett “Mr. Christmas” Eldredge has unwrapped his décor picks for the 2023 holiday season, and it might just be the best-looking list of all time.

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

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

1. For the New Homeowner

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

2. For the Outdoor Decorator

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

3. For the Coziness Champ

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

4. For the Practical One

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

5. For the Crowd Pleaser

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

6. For the Traditionalist

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

7. For the Hot Cocoa Enthusiast

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

8. For the Interior Remixer

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

9. For the Stocking Stuffer

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

10. For the One Who Needs to Think Big

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

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

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Holiday Gifts for Foodies https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/40946/ 232291040946 Tue, 05 Dec 2023 06:09:00 GMT (BPT) - Some foodies love to eat, and some foodies love to create. For those on your holiday gift list, here are ideas that will excite even the most discerning culinary creator.

For the coffee lover who waxes eloquent about beans

The JURA GIGA 10 offers 35 different brew options, from intense espresso to trendy flat white, plus a full range of genuine cold brew specialties at the touch of a button. It offers a luxury coffee experience, with two bean containers, each with its own ceramic disc grinder, designed for maximum grinding quality and versatility. The touch-operated panorama coffee panel is extremely user-friendly, making it easy to customize your beverage in multiple ways. The stunning design is meant to be shown off in the kitchen or curated coffee bar.

For the perfectionist chef

A few degrees can make the difference between a juicy filet and a ruined steak. The CDN Lollipop Thermometer is an advanced model designed for perfectionist home chefs. The 1.5mm thin tip is ideal for even the thinnest cuts of meat, and it’s incredibly accurate to one-tenth of a degree, helping cook an expensive Wagyu filet to perfection.

For the chef who wants to take the show on the road

The Tramontina GURU is a portable induction cooktop that works anywhere with a power outlet — for wandering chefs or those who want to expand or upgrade cooking options at home. This lightweight, high-performance cooktop features a built-in precision scale, safety features, and connectivity to a smartphone or tablet for access to curated recipes and video instruction. The GURU starter set includes cookware and online resources for recipes, techniques, and nutritional information.

For hard-core bakers and bread makers

Serious bakers and bread makers know that the Ankarsrum Assistent Original Mixer is the gold standard for producing the best dough. This versatile Swedish-made mixer is renowned for power and long-term reliability. Its unique kneading motion produces pro-level results, whether you're making a cake, whipping a meringue, or preparing multiple loaves of bread at a time. With 14 vibrant colors, there’s a perfect Ankarsrum mixer for any kitchen.

For iced tea fanatics

Iced tea lovers will wonder how they survived before the Capresso Iced Tea Select. It brews an entire pitcher of plain or flavored iced tea at the press of a button. The reusable filter holds loose tea or tea bags, and brew strength is easy to customize. Add fresh or frozen fruit for refreshing tea beverages all year round.

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Transforming the gift-giving game https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/41238/ 233481041238 Mon, 04 Dec 2023 23:01:00 GMT (BPT) - In a world where toy trends seem to change faster than a child can unwrap a gift, parents, guardians and gift-givers are constantly on the lookout for the perfect present that will both excite and enrich a child’s life. According to Fidelity Investments’® 2023 Gifting Study, a surprising revelation has emerged: a significant majority of parents are not only open to but prefer contributions to their child’s college fund over traditional holiday gifts.

The study, which surveyed a diverse group of parents and guardians across the country, found that a staggering 79% of respondents would welcome contributions to their child’s college savings account in lieu of the usual array of toys and gadgets. Even more compelling, 2 in 3 would even prefer this forward-thinking approach to gift-giving. This sheds light on a growing awareness among parents about the long-term benefits of investing in their child’s education from an early age.

Gift-giving for kids has traditionally revolved around the latest toys, games and electronic devices. However, the rising cost of education has prompted a shift in parental priorities. Many parents are recognizing the importance of building a financial foundation for their child’s future, and what better way to do that than by contributing to a 529 college savings account?

Tony Durkan, vice president, head of 529 relationship management at Fidelity Investments, emphasizes the developmental benefits behind these trends. “Children often receive so much in the way of material possessions, but contributing to their education sends a powerful message about the value of long-term goals and planning for the future. It instills a sense of responsibility and demonstrates that education is a priority for the entire family.”

While traditional toys and games certainly have their place in a child’s life, the gift of education is timeless and enduring. Grandparents, aunts, uncles and family friends now have an opportunity to contribute not only to the joy of the present moment but also to a child’s lifelong journey of learning and growth. Fidelity has an easy-to-use gifting tool that ensures a seamless experience and recent legislation has also made it even more flexible for friends and family to give to a 529 account without the worry of a child’s future education plan now that some funds can be transferred into retirement savings like a Roth IRA for that child.

So, with so many gifting occasions throughout the year, consider making a lasting impact with a gift that truly keeps on giving — a contribution to a child’s college fund. It’s a choice that resonates with the spirit of the season, embodying the essence of generosity, and a commitment to shaping a brighter future for the next generation.

For more information about the gifting study and 529 college savings accounts, visit Go.Fidelity.com/GiftingStudy23.

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Quick and easy spruce-ups that will elevate your home for holiday guests https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/37754/ 21285000203 Mon, 04 Dec 2023 11:01:00 GMT (BPT) - ‘Tis the season for ugly sweater parties, merry mocktail gatherings and holiday cookie exchanges. While many enjoy playing hostess with the mostest, holiday entertaining can come with some stressors. In fact, a recent survey found that 55% of adults in the U.S. say it’s important to them that their guests have a favorable opinion of their home.* Whether hosting a big family gathering or inviting friends over for a festive celebration, a little home prep work can go a long way in creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. To help you get ready for the holiday season, here are five ways to make your home cozy, inviting and ready to impress.

Deep clean and declutter before decking the halls

With the holidays close at hand, you may be getting ready to adorn your home with traditional holiday décor. But, before you drape the tinsel, give your home a thorough clean and declutter. Start by dusting surfaces, vacuuming carpets, mopping floors, polishing woodwork and cleaning the bathrooms and kitchen. You’ll also want to take time to put away or get rid of items that are creating unnecessary clutter, as a tidy space will make your home feel more spacious and comfortable. In fact, the holidays are a great time to give things you no longer want to those in need. A clean and clutter-free home will make your guests feel more comfortable while also keeping the spotlight on your home’s beauty and holiday cheer.

Seal around windows and doors

One of the best parts about this time of year is cuddling up and getting cozy with family and friends. The first step in making your home warm and inviting for your holiday guests is to seal around your windows and doors. Moisture and cold air can seep through the small openings and cracks of doors and windows, causing your home to feel drafty and chilly. Stay warm by replacing old caulk with a sealant like DAP’s AMP All Weather Window, Siding and Door Sealant. It delivers a 100% weatherproof and waterproof seal for your windows and doors, while offering durability, mold and mildew resistance, wet surface application, paintability and crystal-clear clarity. It also has a 30-minute paint and rain/water ready time, giving you more time to prepare for your guests.

Replace old, unsightly caulk

Throughout the year, your kitchen and bathrooms are exposed to high levels of water and moisture. This can lead to mold and mildew growth, and buildup of dirt and stains on the caulk which can be eyesores. Make these areas guest-ready by removing the old caulk, thoroughly cleaning the area to remove any dirt or residue, and then re-caulking with DAP’s AMP Kitchen, Bath & Plumbing Sealant. Not only does it provide a 100% waterproof seal, but it’s also specifically formulated to prevent mold and mildew growth with a lifetime guarantee and is available in white and crystal clear.

Repair imperfections and paint on walls

Walls can accumulate wear and tear over time, especially in high-traffic areas of your home. To ensure your space looks its best for holiday guests, take time to repair any imperfections by filling holes and cracks with a high-quality spackling, such as DAP’s DryDex® Dry Time Indicator Spackling, that provides a smooth finished surface in a shortened amount of time. The unique dry time color indicator also verifies when the patched surface is dry and ready to be sanded and painted. Once the surface is sanded down, apply a fresh coat of paint in key areas, like the living room, bathroom and guest bedroom, to help the entire home feel clean and fresh. Or, if you’re looking to impress, painting a room is an easy and inexpensive way to dramatically change the whole look of a space.

Create a welcoming entryway

Your front entrance sets the tone for your guests' experience. Add a festive wreath, some seasonal plants or a doormat to create an inviting entrance. Make sure the area is well-lit to help guests feel welcome. If your entryway tends to get cluttered with coats, shoes and bags, consider adding storage solutions like a coat rack, shoe bench, festive baskets or wall hooks. Providing a designated space for your guests to store their belongings will make them feel more comfortable and allow you to relax as well.

These quick and easy preparations will help you and your guests feel more at home, setting the stage for all to enjoy the festivities and fun of the season. Learn more about how DAP products can get your home guest-ready for the holidays at www.dap.com.

*According to a survey of 2,000 U.S. adults commissioned by Article and conducted by OnePoll.

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4 self-care secrets for a joyful holiday season https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/40720/ 230571040720 Mon, 04 Dec 2023 08:01:01 GMT (BPT) - The holidays can be a happy yet hectic time. Between planning, cooking and hosting celebrations, your focus often shifts to the joy of others. As you check your list twice to make sure everyone else is having a merry holiday, don’t forget yourself. Prioritizing self-care is essential this time of year.

To make sure you can enjoy the festive season as much as possible, Registered Dietitian and Nutritionist Dawn Jackson Blatner offers some tips to deck the halls with self-care this holiday.

1. Manage stress

As stress levels rise, your enjoyment of the holidays often goes down. It’s important to regularly exercise or meditate to manage stress. Find time daily, even if it’s just 5 or 10 minutes between to-dos, to practice mindful activities such as yoga, journaling or even putting together a puzzle.

2. Rest well

With so much on your list, you may find yourself sleeping less. However, to feel and be your best around family and friends, you must get good sleep. Plan and adhere to earlier bedtimes and remember to reduce screen time and social media use to aid in relaxation. Reading a book instead of scrolling on your phone can help to wind down before bed.

3. Practice gratitude

Make a list of things you’re grateful for this year. Review and add to it as you feel overwhelmed. You may even consider volunteering with your loved ones to help foster joy in the true spirit of the holiday season.

4. Start new traditions

Embrace new traditions like participating in a weekly game night, visiting the local drive-in theater or baking holiday treats together with wholesome ingredients like Eggland’s Best eggs. These eggs contain superior nutrition such as six times more Vitamin D and 25% less saturated fat to boost heart health and your body’s immunity, both of which are important for overall wellness during the holiday season.

Check out these Mini Gingerbread Cheesecakes from Eggland’s Best. They are baked in a muffin pan and have festive flavor, with a double dose of ginger thanks to a ginger snap crust, plus a delicious cream cheese filling with seasonal spices like nutmeg and cinnamon. Try it out with friends and family this season — it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any holiday gathering!

Mini Gingerbread Cheesecakes

Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 15 minutes Yields: 6 mini cheesecakes

Ingredients:

For the crust:

  • 12-15 gingersnaps
  • 2 tablespoons butter, melted
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar

For the filling:

  • 1 Eggland's Best Large Egg
  • 1 Eggland's Best Large Egg Yolk
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened at room temperature
  • 1 tablespoon molasses
  • 1/3 cup powdered sugar (confectioners' sugar)
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground dried ginger
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon cardamom
  • pinch of salt

Topping ideas: whipped cream, caramel, nuts, melted chocolate, toffee sauce, etc.

Directions:

1. Line your muffin/cupcake pan with 6 liners and preheat oven to 350 F.

2. Add the ginger snaps to a food processor fitted with metal blade, add butter and granulated sugar. Crush them to a fine powder.

3. Put a heaping tablespoon in each liner and press down using back of a cup or spoon. Set aside.

4. In a large bowl, add all the ingredients under the filling (except topping) and using a hand mixer, beat until smooth and fluffy. Add about 1/3 cup on top of the crust. Once filled, tap the pan a few times to get rid of any air bubbles.

5. Bake for 13-15 minutes or until set; a little jiggly in the center is fine.

6. Once baked, switch off the stove, open the door and let the cakes cool for 10 minutes. Then, pull it out of the oven and transfer using a spatula to lift and place on a rack to cool down completely.

7. Chill for at least 6 hours or overnight before serving. Add whipped cream and toppings if desired.

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5 delightful food and ranch pairings for a successful homegate https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42444/ 240771042444 Mon, 04 Dec 2023 08:01:01 GMT (BPT) - Get ready for a tasty touchdown! Passionate home tailgaters (homegaters) are getting their space ready to host friends and family for football season. Whether you're a seasoned host or a new homegater, you know that you'll need fuel to cheer on your team. This season, try pairing foods with a fan-favorite condiment: Ranch.

Ranch dressing goes with just about anything and can elevate the flavor of other foods. Litehouse Homestyle Ranch, America's #1 refrigerated dressing brand*, wants to help you score big this football tailgating season. Dive into the homegating playbook and try five ranch and party-approved food pairings that will have your fellow fans cheering for more.

1. Chicken wings

Chicken wings are a classic choice for any tailgate. Whether you like bone-in or boneless, barbecue or buffalo, it's a real party food MVP. Pair these crispy delights with a side of ranch, and enjoy the contrast of the wing's savory taste and ranch's creamy texture. They're also packed with protein to fuel you all day long as you watch the big game.

2. Pizza

A cheesy, warm slice of pizza just begs to be dipped in ranch. Offer a selection of classic pepperoni, garden veggie, barbecue chicken and four cheese so everyone can enjoy a couple (or several!) slices they can dunk in or drizzle with ranch. It's the ultimate pizza party homegate experience.

3. Burgers

Take your burger game to the next level with a generous squeeze of ranch. Grill each patty to your desired doneness, top with all the fixings and drizzle ranch on the buns for a sensational taste. Cool, tangy ranch complements the savory beef you and your guests can enjoy while watching your team score a touchdown.

4. Veggies

Veggies and ranch are a popular football finger food. It adds a touch of crunch to your game day spread and is the perfect party appetizer or side your guests will appreciate. Choose crisp carrots, celery and bell peppers to dip into a zesty ranch. It's a great contrast to the other homegate dishes you may serve this weekend.

5. Nachos

Bring a stadium staple home by making a platter of nachos. Nachos are a superior party snack because you can quickly cook up a huge plate for your guests so you can sit down and cheer on your team, too. Layer tortilla chips, melted cheese, jalapenos, salsa and a thick drizzle of ranch to create a mouthwatering masterpiece. It's a winning combination your guests will demolish in minutes.

Whether you're a fan of wings, pizza, burgers, veggies, or party nachos, adding a dollop or drizzle of ranch to the mix can take your homegate festivities from good to great.

Enhance your football gatherings even more by entering the Litehouse in the House Ranch Cave sweepstakes. One ranch-loving grand prize winner will win their very own Ranch Cave with football cave essentials. One first-prize winner will receive a year's worth of Litehouse ranch dressing and 50 second-prize winners will receive Litehouse Ranch-shaped pillows, the perfect addition to any tailgate hang. To learn more, visit LitehouseFoods.com.

And don't forget to also enter the "Take it to the House" experience. Every Sunday, Litehouse will celebrate the first time a player "takes it to the house." Starting in November, the first time there is an interception, kick-off or punt return for a touchdown, Litehouse will give away free bottles of Litehouse ranch dressing! Follow @lifehousefoods on Instagram for more information.

* Source: 1Circana US MULO Latest 52 Weeks Ending 11/5/23

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Tips to Make Holiday Giving Stress-Free https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42122/ 239681042122 Fri, 01 Dec 2023 16:27:00 GMT Play Video

(BPT) - It’s the most wonderful time of the year. This means good cheer, festive gatherings, and a fair amount of stress. But there are ways to shop, prepare and get great gifts with ease. Lifestyle Expert Carey Reilly shares her tips.

A big trend this holiday season is practical gifting, and giving gifts that the recipient will use and love. That’s why the UGREEN Nexode RG 30 and 65 watt chargers are a great gift, perfect for anyone. They have 2 USB-C ports and one USB-A port. There’s also built-in protection from short circuit, overload and overheating. When it comes to holiday gift-giving it’s no secret that rising interest rates are putting a damper on the season. That’s why it’s so important to shop smart. The Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card is a $0 Annual Fee card that allows shoppers to earn a $200 cash rewards bonus when spending $500 in purchases in the first 3 months. Plus, earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on everyday purchases and enjoy 0% intro APR for 15 months. And, if there is an avid traveler on your gift-giving list the X-Ice SNOW tire is Michelin’s superior winter tire designed for maximum mobility and safety. It’s truly a must-have for the winter traveler and features improved snow performance and braking, stopping nearly 10 feet shorter on ice than a leading competitor.

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Top tech gifts to keep you connected this holiday season and beyond https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/40603/ 230031040603 Fri, 01 Dec 2023 08:01:00 GMT (BPT) - Holidays are all about gathering together with family and friends. But when you can't be physically together, it's even more important to stay connected, no matter where you are. Fortunately, today's technology makes it easier than ever to stay connected to your loved ones.

T-Mobile understands the importance of keeping you connected wherever life may take you. To ensure you and your family stay connected this holiday season and beyond, the Un-carrier is offering the season’s best deals on top tech to ensure you can reach whoever you want, whenever you want, on the nation's largest, fastest and most awarded 5G network. And customers on Go5G Next and Go5G Plus can take advantage of great benefits year-round, including Netflix on Us, Apple TV+ on Us, SiriusXM Streaming Platinum on Us, MLB.TV, MLS Season Pass, T-Mobile Tuesdays and more just for being a T-Mobile customer.

When planning your holiday shopping, consider this list of gifts that use technology at its best — making it easier to spend time together, wherever your travels take you this season.

Please all the tech lovers in your family

If you're looking for gifts to suit just about any taste, you can snag the ultimate tech bundle at T-Mobile this holiday season! Get a free smartphone, smartwatch and earbuds bundle across leading brands from Samsung to Google and more when you stack qualifying holiday promotions, all via 24 monthly bill credits, plus tax. Whether you're shopping for your family or yourself, you'll be able to check off a few items on your list with this ultimate bundle.

Treat a family member, loved one or bestie with a new 5G phone

Looking for an extra special gift to help you stay close to an extra special someone? A new phone is just the right gift to keep you feeling close. Get $1,000 off the season's hottest Android devices from Samsung, Google and Motorola when trading in an eligible device or adding a line on Go5G Next or Go5G Plus, via 24 monthly bill credits, plus tax. That's $1,000 off the Samsung Galaxy S23, Google Pixel 8, motorola razr+ and more! Or you can get the new REVVL 6x PRO 5G or REVVL 6x 5G on T-Mobile when you add a line on most plans — or the REVVL 6x 5G on T-Mobile (or 6x PRO for $50) with any trade-in on most plans.

Stay connected to your kids almost anywhere, anytime

To ensure your kids stay safe at school, soccer practice and beyond, consider gifting them a smartwatch this holiday season. You can score a free SyncUP KIDS Watch via 24 monthly credits, plus tax, when you activate a new watch line at T-Mobile to ensure your kids stay connected and safe. Plus, T-Mobile is currently offering a free 3-pack of watch bands when picking up a SyncUP KIDS Watch in a T-Mobile store, while supplies last. And as an added bonus, video-calling is now available on the SyncUP KIDS Watch. Now you can video call your kids practically anywhere they are, whenever you want!

Bluetooth speakers for an epic family dance party

Does your idea of the perfect family gathering involve a lot less small talk, and a lot more grooving to your favorite tunes? You'll be ready to rock the house together when you get the Harman Kardon Onyx Studio 8 for your fam for just $179.99 — a T-Mobile exclusive. The Un-carrier is also offering up to $150 off select JBL products so you can choose the device best suited for you and your family.

Best tech stocking stuffers

Want the season's best accessories to keep the whole family charged up and protected? T-Mobile is offering deals on a variety of tech accessories, including back-up chargers, wireless charging devices, cell phone grips, screen protectors, cases and more for excellent — and much appreciated — stocking stuffers for the whole family.

Keep it all in the family

Need a great phone plan to help everyone in your family keep in touch? T-Mobile has brought back one of its most popular deals this holiday! Get four voice lines for only $100 per month on Essentials. T-Mobile customers can save $480/year compared to AT&T and $240/year compared to Verizon on similar plans with four lines!

Get your holiday shopping done early and enjoy gifting the latest and greatest devices while stacking up on savings. Plus, you've been good this year — why not snag a gift or two for yourself while you're at it? Visit T-MobileDeals.com to check out all the latest deals.

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Tips to keep your cat happy and healthy this holiday season and beyond https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42417/ 240661042417 Thu, 30 Nov 2023 17:01:00 GMT (BPT) - In the company of loved ones, the holidays transform into a meaningful celebration marked by decadent foods, delightful presents and joyous gatherings. As a pet parent, you want to share in this joy with your feline family members. This means enjoying the holiday season with your pets but also keeping them safe and comfortable so all can be merry.

Extra house guests, new foods and even innocent-looking ribbons decorating presents can be tempting to cats. The best way to keep your feline happy and healthy this holiday season is to take a proactive approach and follow these tips.

1. Understand litterbox habits

Your cat’s litterbox habits provide important insight into their overall wellness, including if they got into some holiday fun they shouldn’t have. However, inspecting a litterbox is not a cheery chore. Fortunately, this is the golden age of pet tech, and keeping an eye on your cat’s litterbox habits is now as simple as opening an app.

Solutions like the Petivity™ Smart Litterbox System help pet parents better understand their cat’s health by monitoring litterbox habits. Developed by a team of Purina behaviorists, veterinarians and data scientists, the system’s artificial intelligence is able to learn each cat’s unique litterbox patterns and identify subtle changes that can have big implications. Even small fluctuations in weight, frequency in litterbox visits and the types of elimination can be early signs of health concerns.

Like with all good, smart tech, setup is simple. Monitors are placed under a litterbox to track each cat’s data and habits. Then, if anything requires the owner’s attention, an alert is sent automatically to their phone. It’s a slick process, good to have all year round, and provides excellent insights during the hectic winter holidays.

2. Be mindful while being merry

The holidays are a prime time to pique a cat’s curiosity. From decadent scents and festive foods to sparkling ribbons and jingling bells — there’s a lot to attract their attention. While sharing the holidays with your feline is fun, it’s important to be cautious.

Some potential toxic temptations, like chocolate, are already well known. But some sneakier ones also pop up this time of year. For example, lilies, amaryllis and poinsettias are popular cut flowers in festive decor, but they are toxic to cats who can be tempted to chew on them.

When possible, keep food and plants up high or away where cats can’t reach them. If a cat does eat something and you don’t see it, the litterbox monitoring system can help detect any changes and alert them to you. Then you can determine next steps to keep your feline feeling well and have important information to share if a call to the veterinarian is in order.

Another healthy step pet parents can take during the holidays is to monitor stress. If you’re hosting a holiday event, consider a quiet room where cats can always retreat away from guests. This gives them a safe space to use as needed so they can rest, relax and recharge.

Keep in mind, stress alone from holiday gatherings can potentially cause digestive issues for cats. If the duration and frequency of litterbox visits change, it’s a solid sign that kitty could use some calm. In addition to quiet spaces, some love from their favorite human — you — is often welcome during the hectic holiday season.

3. Gift proactive cat health

Remember, the best holiday gift you can give your cat or the cat lover in your life is the chance to be proactive about their health. Leverage smart tech, like the Petivity™ Smart Litterbox System, to monitor your cat's litterbox habits. Also, make sure to schedule your annual checkup for the new year to keep your veterinarian in the loop about your pet’s health.

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Simple eye care: 5 ways to reduce blue light https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42074/ 239391042074 Thu, 30 Nov 2023 10:01:00 GMT (BPT) - As we head into winter, the days are growing shorter and nightfall comes earlier. Given the weather and lack of sunlight, you’ll likely spend more time indoors during the colder months. While this can bode well for spending quality time indoors with friends and family, especially during the holidays, it also means that you’ll spend a lot of time staring at screens.

While mobile devices can simplify life, too much screen time can harm your health. Screen time and blue light exposure have been raised as a growing health concern, and doctors, educators, employers and parents agree that there are potential risks from overexposure.

Blue light is part of our natural world, but high energy visible (HEV) blue light from digital devices can also affect your sleep, resulting in trouble sleeping, waking up during the night, or reduced alertness the next day.

According to Harvard Health, blue light — especially at night — can suppress your body’s release of melatonin, an important hormone that promotes feelings of sleepiness. Additionally, a survey by The Vision Council found that many American adults experience eyestrain, dry eyes, headaches, blurred vision, and neck and shoulder pain after extended screen time and blue light exposure.

While you can’t and shouldn’t completely get rid of blue light, you can take steps to reduce your exposure. ZAGG, known for its device cases and screen protectors, cares about protecting users from high energy light exposure and has offered five tips to help you protect your eyes from blue light this winter and beyond.

1. Reduce screen time

The easiest way to protect your eyes from blue light is to reduce screen time. According to estimates by Eyesafe, the average screen time for U.S. adults has increased to over 13 hours a day. Children ages 8-12 and teens spend an average of 4-6 hours and up to nine hours, respectively, watching or using screens.

You don’t have to stop using your devices altogether. Find other hobbies and activities you can do on your own or with company to give your eyes a break.

2. Put away your devices before bedtime

For the sake of your sleep, it’s critical that you put away devices before going to bed. According to an article published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS), too much blue light exposure from viewing screens at night may impact our circadian rhythms and cause trouble sleeping, waking during the night and reduced alertness the next day.

Aim to put away your electronic devices at least an hour before bedtime so you can increase your chances of getting a good night’s sleep.

3. Install blue light filtering screen protectors

Thanks to modern technology, there are now products on the market that can help reduce your exposure to blue light.

For example, ZAGG’s InvisibleShield Glass XTR3 is the world’s first screen protector with Eyesafe RPF60 technology that filters blue light which can disrupt sleep. This new-to-world Eyesafe technology filters intense blue light between 435-440 nanometers, which is the portion of the spectrum most concerning to eye doctors. Best of all, ZAGG screen protectors won’t change the color on your screen, meaning no yellow tint.

4. Wear blue light-blocking glasses

When using computers and tablets or watching TV, make it a habit to wear blue light–blocking glasses. There are many options for prescription and non-prescription eyeglasses with blue light filtration. They also come in several styles and colors so you can protect your eyes in style.

5. Use device software

Many devices now have software installed that can help reduce a user’s exposure to blue light. For example, you can set your device to night mode and adjust the screen display to a warmer temperature to reduce blue light output. The downside is your screen will have a yellow or amber tint. Alternatively, if you use a ZAGG screen protector or wear blue light-blocking glasses, you’ll receive the same filtering benefits without changing the colors on your screen.

This winter, make your eyes a priority. Using these five tips, you’ll be well on your way to reducing your exposure to blue light so you can decrease digital eyestrain and hopefully get a better night’s sleep. To learn more about blue light, visit ZAGG.com/Blue-Light-Filtering.

Many devices now have software installed that can help reduce a user’s exposure to blue light. For example, you can set your device to night mode and adjust the screen display to a warmer temperature to reduce blue light output. The downside is your screen will have a yellow or amber tint. Alternatively, if you use a ZAGG screen protector or wear blue light-blocking glasses, you’ll receive the same filtering benefits without changing the colors on your screen.

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Ready for holiday baking? How to choose the right bakeware https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/41862/ 237831041862 Thu, 30 Nov 2023 02:01:00 GMT (BPT) - If you love holiday baking, but one look at your tired old pans does not inspire you to make holiday magic in your kitchen, you may be ready to upgrade to better-quality bakeware. You may have noticed that some of your old bakeware doesn't perform as well as it used to — or may sometimes lead to problems like uneven baking or even burning your favorite baked goods. But what do you need to look for when choosing new bakeware?

Here's a guide to help you find bakeware that's worthy of your holiday baking menu.

Consider your main baking goals

Do you prioritize your family cookie swap, or making mouthwatering muffins, perfect pies, fresh-baked bread or festive yuletide cakes? Make a short list of your favorite seasonal recipes, and you'll get a pretty quick idea of what kinds of pans you need most.

Rather than investing in a huge set of bakeware that includes specialty pans you know you'll never need, choose smaller sets that offer exactly the kinds of bakeware you see yourself using most often. This will help you save money as well as space in your kitchen cupboards.

Look for quality materials — and no-burn insulation

For cookies and other baked goods — plus roasted vegetables or other savory items — that cook perfectly evenly, you'll want to find a baking sheet that's not only made of the most durable, high-quality materials but also created with two layers, allowing a pocket of air to circulate between them to ensure even browning in the oven. The strongest materials for any bakeware include carbon steel, aluminum, and aluminized steel.

Choose non-stick surfaces

The last thing you want is to struggle with scraping your beautiful holiday cookies off the sheet or a cake that won't come out cleanly. Instead, opt for nonstick surfaces that will make moving your baked goods from pan to cooling rack easy — and clean-up even easier.

Get a grip

If you've found it challenging to maneuver sheets full of baked goods in and out of the oven with your bulky oven mitts on, you may want your next pans to be specially designed to be easier for anyone to use.

Select the right sizes

Size matters when it comes to cookie sheets. You'll want to consider not only how big your oven is but whether you usually like to cook in large batches or small and if your favorite holiday recipes require baking one sheet at a time (for those that need to be baked on the center rack of the oven for optimal results).

No matter what types of sweet or savory items you like to bake, it can be helpful to have a couple of different sizes on hand for more than one purpose.

Baking sheets to please any cookie fanatic

For avid cookie bakers, GoodCook® AirPerfect™ Nonstick Baking Sheets have over-baking under control with their two insulated layers, and a textured bottom that heats up quickly while retaining moisture to prevent overheating on the top. Using these pans, you'll have the perfect bake for your delicious cookies, biscuits, pastries, and much more. They're also constructed from durable premium-grade carbon steel with a nonstick surface coating, so you'll have an easy, mess-free release — and they're dishwasher safe for quick and simple clean-up after use.

To solve the problem of handling your cookie sheets as you move them in and out of the oven, these pans also feature ergonomic handles that provide a firm grip, making your holiday cookie baking time even better from start to finish.

Need a set? GoodCook AirPerfect Nonstick Baking Sheets come as a set with two convenient sizes: two large sheets (16" x 14") and one medium sheet (14" x 12"), so you'll have plenty of room for any size batch of cookies or other items you love to bake. After you order your set, you may want another one as a gift for the favorite baker in your life!

You can find your next favorite set of cookie sheets and plenty of other kitchen must-haves in time for the holidays at GoodCook.com.

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Shopping for video games this holiday season? What you need to know https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42116/ 239681042116 Wed, 29 Nov 2023 16:35:00 GMT (BPT) - Are video games at the top of your kids' wish lists this year? Chances are good that they are. In a recent survey of U.S. adults and children aged 10 through 17 by the Entertainment Software Association (ESA), kids were most likely to ask parents for video game–related presents (72%). It's not surprising, as there's a video game out there for every player, and video games are a fun activity that can also engage friends and family in interactive play.

In the survey, a majority of both girls (59%) and boys (86%) say they plan to ask for video game gifts, with the top five requests being for game subscriptions (39%), game consoles (38%), game gear/accessories (32%), in-game currency (29%) and physical video games (22%). And they're not just for kids — about 1 in 3 (32%) adults say they plan to buy video game gifts for themselves or others for the holidays, with that number jumping to 57% for parents.

"More than 212 million Americans play video games regularly, so it comes as no surprise that games are at the top of this year's wish lists," said Stan Pierre-Louis, president and CEO, ESA. "Whether a family is getting a new console, updating their controllers and headsets or adding to their library with new games and expansion packs, we know video games are a great tool for families to play together and connect during the holiday season and beyond."

Before you head online or to a store to do your shopping, it's important to take steps to ensure the games you choose for your kids are appropriate for their ages, and that you're comfortable with their content.

If you're a parent or caregiver — or other relative looking for games for the kids in your life — the ESA encourages taking these three steps before purchasing and gifting video game items for kids, so you can relax and let them have fun playing games they love.

1. Check the age and content rating information

The Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) assigns age and content ratings to video games and mobile apps to help parents and caregivers decide which are appropriate for kids. Parents should look out for the ESRB's three-part rating system:

Rating Categories suggest age appropriateness. Ratings include E for Everyone, E10+ for ages 10 and older, T for Teen, M for Mature for ages 17 and older or AO for Adults Only.

Content Descriptors highlight content leading to the assigned age rating. ESRB has over 30 Content Descriptors to let parents know when a video game contains language, humor, violence and more.

Interactive Elements provide upfront notice about interactive features that may be important to parents. For example, the "In-Game Purchases" label lets parents know when a game offers the ability to spend money for additional in-game content, and the "Users Interact" label lets parents know when a game allows user-to-user communication.

You can find ESRB rating information on the front and back of all video game boxes, and on product detail pages on digital storefronts.

2. Make use of parental controls

Tools exist on virtually all game devices to help parents and caregivers manage gameplay experiences for their family. Parental controls can include:

  • Filtering games by ESRB age rating
  • Managing time spent playing games
  • Controlling — or preventing — spending
  • Limiting — or blocking — communication with other players
  • PIN and password settings to prevent unwanted changes
  • Regular playtime reports

3. Have family conversations about responsible online behavior

Video games are a positive and meaningful outlet for billions of players worldwide. To help your family enjoy their games, it's important to communicate clear household rules around limits (such as time of day and duration of play), the types of games allowed and when it's appropriate to spend money — then set up parental controls around these rules.

In addition, games increasingly allow interaction with others online. You'll want to consider whether family members should be able to interact with other players and if so, with whom. You can decide to activate parental controls to block online communications. In some cases, parents can curate their kids' friends list to only allow communications with people they know in real life.

If children are allowed to interact with others online, remember to discuss appropriate behavior, including treating other players kindly and respectfully. It's also key to have conversations with children about interacting with strangers online. If they're allowed to talk to strangers, make sure children understand what to do if they encounter another player behaving inappropriately. Remember: Kids can always mute, block and report players, and if they're unsure what to do, let them know they can always ask you or another trusted adult for advice.

Learn more about nurturing ongoing conversations around video games in your home by checking out ESRB's Family Gaming Guide and tools for parents, and following the ESRB blog. Steps the video game industry is taking to help protect everyone in the player community can be found on TheESA.com.

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Lacey Chabert's Top Tips for Easy Holiday Hosting https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42458/ 240871042458 Wed, 29 Nov 2023 14:37:00 GMT (BPT) - The holidays are a festive time of year full of friends, family and fun. Hosting events in your home is a great way to bring loved ones together, but it also can be overwhelming. Fortunately, tips from an expert holiday hostess can help you plan a gathering that everyone will enjoy, including yourself!

“Queen of Hallmark,” actress, producer and star of holiday film “A Merry Scottish Christmas,” Lacey Chabert is gearing up for the holidays with Glade® and sharing her top tips for at-home entertaining.

1: Plan a special welcome moment

Set the tone for your gathering right at the front door. Decorate your entryway with festive items that reflect your personality. As guests arrive, they’ll enjoy the holiday decor while you invite them in for a warm drink or bite-sized appetizers to kick off the party.

2: Set a festive vibe

Light a candle as guests arrive to create a memorable experience that delights the senses. Chabert’s favorite candle is the limited-edition Starlight & Snowflakes from Glade®, which sets a welcoming and wintery vibe for your guests with the smell of fresh fallen snow, frosty air and eucalyptus. She has found that the unique scent paired with the warm candlelight glow is a great way to set a festive mood for holiday events.

3: Embrace holiday aromas

If you have an artificial tree but still crave that quintessential piney fragrance, light the limited-edition Twinkling Pine & Cedar candle from Glade® to get the best of both worlds without the hassle of a real tree.

4: Create kid-friendly spaces

Keep in mind the little ones that may be attending your gathering. Consider creating an enrichment area for them that includes items like blankets, blocks and coloring pages. You might even have an ornament craft ready to go that they can work on as the adults gather. A cookie decorating station or hot chocolate bar are always a hit with kids.

5: Provide a token of gratitude

Offer guests small, personalized holiday favors as thanks for attending your gathering. For example, a candle with a holiday ribbon around it can be set at placemats for decoration. This elevates your event, plus guests can then take these home as a memory of all the holiday fun.

6: Make time to be merry

Hosting can be time-consuming, so don’t forget to take breaks to relax and enjoy the holiday season with your loved ones and ask for help when needed.

These quick tips can help elevate your holiday entertaining and create an event everyone will remember well into the new year.

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For New Year’s resolution success, don’t write off the end of this year https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/41264/ 233621041264 Wed, 29 Nov 2023 07:01:00 GMT (BPT) - Three-quarters of Americans are planning to enjoy the end of the year and not worry about their diet — up from just half last year, according to a new survey.

Results of a recently released survey by Herbalife, a global health and wellness company, revealed that 72% of the 2,000 Americans surveyed want to make the most of the end of the year, regardless of what that means for their diet, compared to 54% in last year’s survey.

That attitude may help explain why respondents in the sixth annual “Writing Off the End of the Year” survey expect to gain 8 pounds before the end of the year — compared to 5 1/2 pounds last year. The results also revealed that two-thirds (66%) of respondents use the end of the year to postpone being healthy — a 24% increase from the previous year.

“The end of the year should be a time to focus on family, friends and self-care,” said Herbalife Chief Health and Nutrition Officer, Dr. Kent Bradley. "Identify specific, attainable actions you want to take to improve your health and your mindset, and if you can, bring your friends and family along on that health journey.”

Despite leaning into temptation at the end of the year, 68% of respondents are confident they’ll have healthy habits in the new year. And they expect it will take them an average of about 19 days to get back on track with their healthy habits, or to start new ones. With this in mind, 47% are planning to make a New Year’s resolution for 2024, up from 32% the year prior.

The 2024 “Top 5” New Year’s Resolutions are:

  1. Eating healthier (68%)
  2. Exercising more (66%)
  3. Getting more sleep (56%)
  4. Focusing on self-care (54%)
  5. Saving money (53%)

To help set yourself up for success now and into the new year, Bradley recommends these six attainable resolutions to help people lose holiday weight and achieve better health:

1. Be specific

Being too general with a resolution makes it difficult to follow. Rather than saying you’ll exercise more or eat better, make your goal to work out three times a week or have a vegetable with every meal. These small, measurable and specific goals set you up for success.

2. Find a friend

A support network can be a big help on your health journey. Find a friend or group of like-minded people to support each other and keep everyone accountable. It also adds a social element that is essential for overall well-being.

3. Get moving

Physical activity is essential in getting healthy. According to guidelines from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, adults need 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity and two days of muscle strengthening activity, each week. It may seem like a lot, but breaking up the physical activity into 30-minute sessions, five days a week, makes it more manageable.

4. Add protein

Protein is a nutritional powerhouse that satisfies hunger and builds lean muscle mass. Include protein-rich foods like lean meat, poultry, eggs, legumes and seeds at every meal and snack to fuel your body and satisfy hunger throughout the day.

5. Avoid fad diets

It’s tempting to jump on the newest trend but remember there are no quick fixes for health. Fad diets do not address the core problems that cause people to gain weight and often eliminate foods that are actually healthy, which can result in nutritional deficiencies.

6. Give yourself grace

Something is always better than nothing. If there isn’t time for a 30-minute workout, do 15. If you can’t make a home-cooked meal, order out a plant-based option. If you have an off day, don’t give up completely. Focus on forward momentum even if you’ve taken a few steps back.

“Make sure you take the time to plan and prepare for the positive behavior changes you’d like to make and be kind to yourself in the process,” said Bradley.

For more healthy lifestyle tips and information, visit Herbalife.com.

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From farm to festivity: How to create holiday magic with fresh fruits and veggies https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/41558/ 235611041558 Wed, 29 Nov 2023 07:01:00 GMT (BPT) - Many holiday celebrations center around food and good company. A meal can bring people, whether acquaintances, friends, or family, together to celebrate the season.

To make your holiday get-togethers extra special this year, infuse some holiday spirit into your menu. Incorporate fruits and vegetables for a fresh and joyful twist on traditional dishes. Whether you're a health-conscious host or just eager to add a dash of nutritious value to your holiday spread, explore these tips to create a memorable and magical holiday feast.

1. Extend a Heartwarming Welcome with a Bountiful Fruit and Veggie Platter

Chances are your guests will arrive at your home ready to eat, even if you won't be sitting down to eat for an hour or so. Having a platter of fresh and vibrant fruits and veggies ready for guests to snack on as they settle in and chat before the main course helps infuse your gathering with the spirit of health and happiness that defines this special season.

Cut up some Fresh Del Monte® produce, including bananas and pineapples, and skewer them or leave out toothpicks for a pleasant, sweet snack. These fruits are excellent sources of essential nutrients, with bananas providing potassium and pineapples offering a boost of vitamin C. This combination not only makes for a nutritious treat but also helps bolster your immune system during the colder months. For an extra special touch, consider adding a Pinkglow® Pineapple to your lineup. This Instagram-worthy fruit boasts a sweeter, less sour taste, and is exceptionally juicy, taking your holiday gathering to new heights of joy.

Arrange these fruits on a tray along with crunchy raw veggies like Mann's Family Favorites® Stringless Sugar Snap Peas and Snow Peas, a good source of iron the body needs to grow and develop. Pick up a few bags of Mann’s Family Favorites® vegetables, which come trimmed, washed and cut, ready for you to serve! As an alternative, consider Mann’s ready-to-go veggie trays. No need to chop or prep — simply open and serve, or re-plate to give it that homemade touch. Save your energy for the main course and let us take care of the veggie tray prep. It's a healthy-made-easy way to keep your holiday spread fresh and festive.

2. Festive Freshness: Revitalize Your Appetizers with Crisp Lettuce

Lettuce isn't just for salad. You can make fresh appetizers to charm guests without spoiling their appetites before dinner. Use large green leaf or romaine lettuce leaves as cups or wraps for savory fillings like sauteed mushrooms or seasoned and browned ground turkey. These healthy, tasty appetizers are great alternatives to traditional finger foods.

Make prep for these crisp lettuce bites simple by purchasing Mann Packing Co.’s Better Crunch Lettuce, Better Romaine® Leaf, or Better Green Leaf®. Each package includes single-cut lettuce that is washed and ready to use, so you can quickly assemble lettuce wraps and cups and get back to cooking the main holiday meal.

3. Experience Holiday Joy with Lower-Carb Alternatives for Diverse and Delicious Dishes

While traditional holiday side dishes are often rich in starchy carbohydrates, yours don't have to follow suit. Instead, consider innovative, vibrant and lower-carb alternatives that indulge your cravings without the accompanying guilt. Purchase Mann Packing Co.’s Better Pasta, Better Rice and Better Fries at your local grocery store to quickly make diverse and delicious dishes. These carbs are cut from gluten-free vegetables to replace traditional carb dishes without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Cook up a bowl of MANN™ Better Pasta, — a low-calorie pasta alternative — to complement your chicken dishes. For a delightful twist, sauté MANN™ Better Cauliflower Rice with a medley of aromatic spices, creating a fragrant bed for your entrées. And for a truly festive treat, why not dust some MANN ™ Better Fresh Cut Sweet Potato Fries with a sprinkle of warm cinnamon or a touch of nutmeg? These wholesome, fiber-rich substitutes for foods heavy in calories and carbs, infused with cozy holiday flavors, will have you savoring every guilt-free bite, bringing a touch of seasonal tastes to your holiday table!

4. Elevate Your Holiday Feast with Steakhouse-Style Vegetables

Bring a little taste of an upscale restaurant to your cozy holiday gathering with Mann Packing Co.’s Steakhouse Style vegetables. Sauté asparagus in garlic butter, roast BROCCOLINI® baby broccoli, in parmesan or grill CAULILINI® baby cauliflower with pine nuts to dazzle your guests' taste buds. All three vegetables are a great source of fiber and pair well with most meats. Best of all, Mann Packing Co.’s Steakhouse Style vegetables are incredibly convenient and easy to prepare.

Incorporating fresh fruits and veggies into your holiday menu doesn't mean you have to sacrifice taste. Using these four tips, you can add vibrancy, nutrition and a unique twist to your festive meals with tasty produce. For more information on Fresh Del Monte and Mann Packing Co. products, including retail availability and recipes, please visit DelMonteFresh.com, PinkGlowPineapple.com and VeggiesMadeEasy.com.

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Planning holiday get-togethers? Tips for easy and crowd-pleasing appetizers https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/41161/ 233141041161 Tue, 28 Nov 2023 07:11:00 GMT

(BPT) - Do you love entertaining friends and family with plates of delicious food around the holidays, but feel pressed for time and ideas when it comes to making tasty appetizers? You’re in luck. SeaPak offers a variety of craveable, affordable and easy-to-prep seafood options that come together in just minutes in an oven, toaster or air fryer — perfect for even impromptu holiday get-togethers. Even better, you can use these frozen pantry favorites to create mouth-watering recipes that might just turn into your next holiday traditions.

Here are some ideas for stocking your freezer so you'll be ready for the busy holiday season:

  • Parmesan Encrusted Butterfly Shrimp is SeaPak’s twist on their famous Jumbo Butterfly Shrimp with unique and irresistible flavors. It brings the traditional favorite up a notch with crisp Parmesan, Italian herb breading and a tomato Romano sauce for dipping.
  • Shrimp Scampi is America’s No. 1 frozen shrimp scampi and never disappoints! Whole, tail-off Shrimp Scampi comes perfectly seasoned in a delicious garlic butter sauce with a hint of red bell pepper and herbs for extra flavor.
  • Calamari is a restaurant-quality appetizer that’s ready in minutes. Wild-caught calamari rings in an oven-crispy breading come with a tomato Romano sauce that everyone will want to gather around — no recipe needed!

These options also provide great opportunities to add more seafood to your diet. Seafood is an excellent source of high-quality protein, along with different nutrients, vitamins and minerals. Eating a variety of seafood ensures that you get a broad spectrum of essential nutrients to contribute to your overall health and well-being — while enjoying the fun and flavor of these family favorites at the same time.

Recipes to amp up the flavor for your next holiday party

If you'd like to bring even more holiday cheer to your next get-together, try these two recipes using SeaPak Shrimp Scampi that will wow your guests with unexpected twists on this seafood favorite.

Merry Shrimp Martinis
5 minutes prep time; 17 minutes cook time. 6 servings.

Pair these festive bites with seasonal cocktails or mocktails for a fun and fast party appetizer that everyone will love.

Ingredients
1 (12-ounce) package SeaPak Shrimp Scampi, frozen
1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 teaspoon horseradish
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
2 teaspoons hot sauce
6 celery sprigs

Garlic Crostini:
Thinly sliced ciabatta bread
1/2 cup reserved SeaPak Shrimp Scampi butter

Directions

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat 1-2 minutes. Heat oven to 400F.
Place shrimp in skillet and saute 7 minutes. Pour off 1/2 cup of scampi butter and reserve for crostini.
Brush reserved scampi butter on bread slices. Place on baking sheet and bake 10 minutes.
Add tomatoes, lemon zest, horseradish, Worcestershire sauce and hot sauce to skillet. Stir to incorporate. Bring to simmer.
Portion shrimp and sauce into serving dishes. Garnish with celery sprigs and garlic crostini.

Mini Shrimp Scampi and Spinach Quiches
12 minutes prep time; 13 minutes cook time. 12-15 servings.

Spinach adds a bright earthy note to the savory flavor of Shrimp Scampi in these delightful mini quiches that are perfect for a crowd.

Ingredients
1 (12-ounce) package SeaPak Shrimp Scampi, frozen
2 (1.9-ounce) packages frozen mini phyllo cups
1/2 (5-ounce) package baby spinach, chopped
2 large eggs
1/2 cup whipping cream
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper

Directions

Heat oven to 375F. Arrange phyllo cups in mini muffin tins coated with cooking spray; set aside.
Heat large skillet over medium-high heat. Add SeaPak Shrimp Scampi and cook for 5 minutes. Add spinach and cook about 1 minute. Set aside a few whole shrimp to garnish; keep warm.
Cut remaining shrimp into smaller pieces. Use a slotted spoon to divide shrimp mixture evenly among phyllo shells.
Whisk together eggs, cream, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl. Pour egg mixture carefully into shells. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes or until eggs are set.
Garnish the top of a few of the mini quiches with reserved shrimp. Drizzle quiches with additional pan sauce before serving, if desired.

With these seafood tips and recipes, you'll have a lot less stress when it comes to hosting holiday celebrations with family and friends. Find these and many more delicious, easy-to-prep products and recipe ideas to elevate your next get-together at SeaPak.com.

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5 perfect wireless presents to gift your loved ones this holiday season https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/40602/ 230031040602 Tue, 28 Nov 2023 02:01:00 GMT (BPT) - Wireless shopping can be difficult, confusing and stressful, whether you're shopping for your parents, kids, grandparents, yourself or anyone else on your list. This holiday season, Metro by T-Mobile makes it easy, simple and stress free to find the perfect wireless gifts for everyone on your list. Check out these five ideas for memorable tech gifts for your loved ones (and yourself!) this holiday season.

1. 5G your home internet

You don't have to break the bank to get your home internet connection. Right now, qualifying Affordable Connectivity Program customers who purchase any Metro phone plan can lock in 5G Home Internet for $20 a month with AutoPay. You won't have to worry about a contract, exploding bills or sneaky gotchas. You will need to purchase a modem, but it can be returned within 60 days if you're unhappy. This deal is available in select markets. Any questions, just ask!

2. Keeping in touch with loved ones: A tablet for grandparents or school kids at home or away

A tablet can bridge the generational gap and keep everyone from college kids to grandparents connected during the holidays and all year round. For grandparents, video calls give them a window into their grandkids' lives. For college students who are always on the go, it's a versatile gift that helps them stay organized and in touch with their families between classes or after a study session. Make sure to choose a user-friendly device with a large screen and clear visuals so everyone can stay connected with ease.

3. Gift your smart partner a smartwatch

For the special someone in your life who is tech-forward and values style, give them a sleek and sophisticated smartwatch. This wearable technology is not just an accessory. Your partner can track their health and fitness goals, receive notifications, manage calls, texts and emails, and even control supported smart home devices without even pulling their phone out of their pocket. Your partner will be incredibly grateful to receive this fashionable and functional gift this holiday season.

4. Treat yourself to trendy tech

Don't forget to give yourself something special this holiday. For example, now is the perfect time to upgrade your current smartphone. Use it to capture holiday memories, stay connected with friends and family, organize your day, stream music and videos, and enjoy apps that make life more convenient.

For instance, if you're not currently a Metro customer, you can treat yourself to a motorola razr. It’s under $100, the lowest price in prepaid. Just swing by your local Metro store, bring your digits and ID and sign up for our most popular plan today. You even get a $100 virtual prepaid Mastercard after the third monthly payment. So, it’s basically free. It’s the gift that keeps giving with no contract, credit check or other nasty surprises.

5. Surprise your tween with their first phone

Now that you've upgraded your phone consider passing it off to your tween, who no doubt has been begging for their first phone for quite a while. It will teach them responsibility, allow them to stay connected with you and their friends, and allow you to teach them safe and responsible phone use. They'll be surprised and delighted by this fun and practical gift.

Take your old phone to Metro and get one line of Unlimited 5G for $25. It’s $30 for the first month and then $25 a month every month after with Autopay. Just make sure to check your network compatibility and unlock your phone online before bringing it in-store.

These five wireless presents are thoughtful and useful gifts that can bring joy, convenience and connectivity to your loved ones during the holiday season. It’s wireless without the gotcha. To learn more about these offers and find your one-stop wireless gift shop near you, visit MetroByT-Mobile.com.

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Clean smarter, not harder: 5 tips to a tidy home when time crunched this holiday season https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/41360/ 234281041360 Mon, 27 Nov 2023 14:11:00 GMT (BPT) - Parties, family gatherings, time with friends and the occasional surprise guest — the holidays are full of fun get-togethers and reasons to celebrate. While there’s much to look forward to, cleaning your home might be a less joyous holiday activity.

Tidying your house can be a lot of work. When you need your home to look its best for a big event, small gathering or just an unexpected guest, a quick clean with minimal effort can make all the difference. Here are a few proven tips and tricks to save time by cleaning smarter, not harder.

Tip 1: Use multitasking cleaners to save time

You don’t need a cabinet overflowing with cleaning solutions. Choose multitasking options like Bona’s all-purpose cleaners that clean a myriad of surfaces, including stainless steel, glass, ceramic, granite and stone. You can quickly tackle many tasks in your home and feel good about using a product that is 99% USDA certified bio-based content, meaning it’s better for the environment.

Tip 2: Create clutter bins for quick cleans

One way to help cut clutter is by creating a bin system to quickly tidy a space. In each room have a small basket or bin handy where you can toss in items that need to be put away in a hurry. This helps clear spaces, especially when time is running short. You can put the bin into a closet to tend to later or assign the bin to a family member to put items away while you focus on another task.

Tip 3: Focus on the floor for a tidy appearance

A quick clean of the floor makes any space look tidier in a snap, and a cleaning system like Bona’s Premium Spray Mop is ideal for both dusting and mopping. With an extra-large mop head for faster cleaning, microfiber pads that can be washed and reused up to 500 times and a system that uses 97% less water than a traditional mop and bucket, it’s a great value that is also environmentally friendly.

Tip 4: Use a grab-and-go mobile cleaning caddy

When you only have a few minutes, a well-stocked plastic caddy can be a life-saver. Pack your caddy with your go-to favorites including Green Guard Certified, USDA Biobased and EPA Safer Choice cleaners to ensure safe ingredients are used around your home. Add in items you find useful like microfiber cloths, paper towels and rubber gloves. This way, when you get that last-minute call or text, you're ready for a quick clean before guests arrive.

Tip 5: Don’t worry, be merry

The holidays are meant to be about family and friends, so try to do a little less cleaning and a bit more enjoying. While you might notice the few crumbs on the floor or dust on a shelf, there's a good chance your guests won't. Focus on cleaning the high visibility areas, surfaces and floors while reducing clutter to get the most impact, especially when you’re low on time. Let the rest go and spend your time enjoying the season.

In just a few minutes, it's easy to make your home guest-ready. Remember, the holidays are about time with loved ones, so stress less, enjoy your home and embrace the joy of the season.

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New Year’s Resolution: Don’t Get Scammed! https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42497/ 241061042497 Wed, 22 Nov 2023 14:09:56 GMT (BPT) - These days, many Americans do a lot of their shopping and charitable giving online. That is why it’s important for consumers to be conscious of financial scams to protect their identities, bank accounts and monetary transactions. From check fraud and peer-to-peer digital payments (i.e., Zelle, Venmo, Paypal or CashApp) to imposters posing as representatives of banks, roughly three-quarters of Americans reported being targeted by scams last year.

The Consumer Bankers Association (CBA) recommends taking the following steps to minimize the possibility of falling victim yourself:

1. Be wary and slow down! Scammers sometimes send text messages or emails claiming to be a fraud alert from the app or your bank. If you don’t recognize the email or phone number, you should proceed with caution. Don’t open attachments or click links from unknown sources, even if they say they are coming from your bank. Like many online scams, scammers will sometimes offer products at unrealistic prices to trick consumers, so resist demands to act quickly.

2. Don’t give out personal information. If a text message asks you to provide any PINs, passwords, Social Security numbers, account information or any other sensitive information, it is likely a scam. Banks rarely ask for this information over the phone and will never ask for a one-time login code. If you have any suspicions, hang up and immediately call your bank.

3. Triple-check payments. And, if you are sending money over a payment app, check every number to ensure accuracy. Some apps prompt senders to verify the recipient’s phone number or otherwise verify their identity. While this is important, double-check the recipient’s account information before you click send. Instant payment apps act like cash, so treat it as such.

“Fraudsters and scammers are getting more sophisticated to trick consumers out of their own money. That’s why it’s so important to be mindful before making a payment to someone, providing any personal information, and especially before giving your bank information to anyone,” CBA President and CEO Lindsey Johnson said. “Please be vigilant and encourage others to do the same.”

The Consumer Bankers Association and its membership comprising the nation’s leading consumer retail banks encourage consumers to protect their own information and money to avoid falling victim to scams and fraud. More information can be found at www.consumerbankers.com.

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5 Tips for Making the Most of Holiday Deals on Tech https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42464/ 240911042464 Wed, 22 Nov 2023 13:15:00 GMT (BPT) - It’s the most anticipated shopping season of the year — and many people wait for months to score the best prices on a new smartphone, TV, speaker, watch or the latest high-tech gifts for loved ones.

“The holidays are about creating memories, but you want to do it without breaking the bank or going into debt,” says Lynnette Khalfani-Cox, author of the New York Times bestselling book Zero Debt: The Ultimate Guide to Financial Freedom. “You can still embrace the spirit of the gifting season, connect with loved ones, and celebrate — all without financial stress.”

Khalfani-Cox, also known as The Money Coach, shares her best tips on shopping for tech gifts to ensure holiday cheers don’t become financial woes.

1. Shop around.

You don’t have to wait until Black Friday to get the best discounts on devices. Many retailers announce their sales ahead of time, so watch for flyers and emails from your favorite spots. If you have your eye on a certain item, check out prices at several places before you decide to make a purchase. If you’re shopping online, you can add an item to your cart before checking other sites. Then, if it ends up being a price you like, you can easily come back to your cart to place an order.

2. Choose the right phone plan or phone to save and connect.

The holidays are a time when you’re likely to make a lot more calls to family and friends. If a new smartphone is on your shopping list, a prepaid phone plan can help save money and give you more payment flexibility in addition to letting you easily stay in touch with loved ones. Prepaid wireless plans don’t require a contract or credit check, and there are no penalties. Straight Talk Wireless, the leading prepaid brand on America’s most-reliable 5G network1, offers plans that deliver more value and fit every budget. Sold exclusively at Walmart, all Straight Talk Unlimited Gold and Platinum plans include a Walmart+ membership at no extra cost, giving you extra benefits and savings — like early access to shopping deals and free deliveries — that are perfect for the holiday season. They’re also now offering the iPhone SE for just $49 in Walmart stores while supplies last.

And if you’re an Android fan, check out carriers like Total by Verizon. If you switch to Total by Verizon, you can get a free Samsung Galaxy A13 5G phone when you sign up for an Unlimited plan — which boasts four lines for $25/line with Auto Pay.

3. Beware of hidden fees and policies.

When shopping around for tech deals, always read the fine print, especially if you’re in the market for a new phone. Some wireless phone offerings have hidden fees and charges involved. Others may require you to sign up for autopay to get certain discounts. Watch out for these rules to save on unexpected costs.

If you’re shopping for other tech devices, be sure to know each store’s price-match and return policies. You’ll likely have a limited number of days to return items. You also don’t want to get stuck with a restocking fee if you end up wanting to return an item to the store.

4. Check your social apps.

The social media feeds of your favorite retailers often offer exclusive deals and promotions. Stores like to reward customers who follow and engage with their content with special alerts to Black Friday discounts and incentives on Facebook, Instagram or other platforms. If you’re active on social media, consider following along with your go-to brands during the holiday season for the latest deals.

5. Use loyalty programs.

Another way to get access to early sales, coupons and promotions is to join a store’s loyalty program through email or text. These programs are usually free to join and often offer additional incentives like free shipping or pick-up in store and rewards to use toward future purchases.

Make it a season of merriment by maximizing your budget for the holidays. Follow these tips to find shopping success on all your tech gifts and needs this year.

1 Most reliable 5G network based on more first place rankings in RootMetrics’ 5G data reliability assessments of 125 metro markets conducted in 1H 2022. Tested with best commercially available smartphones on three national mobile networks across all available network types. Your experiences may vary. RootMetrics rankings are not an endorsement of Verizon.

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4 important safety tips to keep in mind this holiday season https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42302/ 239981042302 Wed, 22 Nov 2023 10:01:00 GMT (BPT) - The holidays are here and it's time to celebrate! No matter how you mark the winter holidays, chances are you'll be purchasing gifts, cooking and decking the halls with friends and family.

When making your list and checking it twice, make sure to put safety at the very top of the page. Nothing ruins the holiday spirit like an accident or injury. As part of its Holiday Safety Campaign, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) offers four important tips to help you and your loved ones stay safe this season.

1. Online products: Review product descriptions and check for recalls

E-commerce retailing has grown year-over-year during the holidays. However, not all retailers are created equal. When purchasing products online this holiday season, keep these tips in mind.

When buying online, you could be purchasing from the manufacturer, a retailer or a third-party seller. If you have a problem with a product or want to return or exchange it, where you purchased the product matters. Remember to look for "sold by" information when purchasing from an online marketplace.

Don't skim product descriptions. Always read to the bottom of the listing or check drop-down menus for additional safety information. This is especially important when shopping for kids. Also, read customer reviews to see other consumers' product experiences.

If you’re purchasing second-hand products from an online marketplace, check to see whether products have been recalled before you buy by going to CPSC.gov/Recalls.

Also, always buy from reputable dealers, and if the price seems too good to be true, this can be a sign that the product is not authentic or original and may be unsafe.

2. Toys: Think of safety testing and gear

There's nothing quite as special as a child's reaction to opening a gift. To keep the season jolly for kids of all ages, look for a certification mark on the manufacturer's label from an independent testing organization. This ensures that the item has been tested for safety. Also be sure to follow age guidance and other safety information on the toy and product packaging. Choose toys that match each child’s interests and abilities, and consider the ages of other children in the household who may have access to the toy.

If you are purchasing a bike or other riding toy, purchase safety gear like helmets to accompany the gift. If purchasing for your own child or family member, ensure that they use them every time they ride.

After opening gifts, immediately discard plastic wrappings or other toy packaging. These can become dangerous playthings if not disposed of quickly.

3. When cooking holiday meals, don’t take your eyes off the turkey!

Everyone loves gathering with loved ones to share a delicious holiday dinner. To keep your holiday feasts safe and fire-free, never leave cooking food unattended on the stove or in the oven. The holidays are the most common time for cooking-related fires. If you’re frying a turkey, only fry it outside and away from your home or other flammable materials. Never use turkey fryers in an enclosed area like the garage or on the porch.

4. When holiday decorating, consider flame risks

It wouldn't feel like the holidays without festive decorations! To keep holiday decorating merry, bright and safe, consider the fire risks in your home.

If you purchase a live tree, make sure it has plenty of water. Dry trees can go up in flames quickly from a malfunctioning string light. Look for the "Fire Resistant" label when buying an artificial tree.

Also, never leave candles unattended. Place burning candles in sight, away from flammable items, and blow or snuff them out before leaving the room. Whenever possible, use flameless candles for your holiday displays.

When hanging lights, never string together more than three sets of incandescent lights and never overload electrical outlets.

Follow these steps to help keep you and your loved ones safe so you can fully enjoy the spirit of the season. Visit CPSC's Holiday Safety Information Center for more holiday safety tips and CPSC.gov for year-round safety information.

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Are You Cyber-savvy this Holiday Shopping Season? https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/40827/ 231401040827 Tue, 21 Nov 2023 15:49:00 GMT (BPT) - Would you leave the front door of your home unlocked at night? Probably not.

For the same reasons you secure the things most valuable inside your home, it has never been more important to lock down your online accounts. Whether it’s your bank account, 401(k), social media, email, or sensitive files stored in the cloud, it’s your responsibility to install the digital locks that will stop cybercriminals from stealing and profiting off your data.

The keys to securing your accounts and data are stronger passwords and authentication. Here are some essential cyber-savvy tips to get you through this holiday shopping season safely:

  • You lose when you reuse: Never use the same password across multiple accounts. If cybercriminals were to obtain your username and password, then they would likely try that same set of credentials on multiple sites. Avoid this type of cyberattack by using different passwords on all your accounts. Avoid the temptation to use one password for all your online shopping sites.
  • Password managers are your friend: Consider using a password manager. Most popular mobile devices and browsers have native password managers built into them, so using one has never been easier. Password managers automatically create unique and complex passwords and then securely store them, so you don’t have to memorize them.
  • Passphrases keep things simple: Passphrases are the strongest forms of passwords. While many online retailers require passwords to include uppercase/lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols, it’s the overall length of the password that makes it secure. An easy way to make your passwords longer is to use a string of words. Examples: “iheartholidayshopping” or “familytimeismyfavorite.”
  • Turn on multi-factor authentication (MFA): Whenever an online service or app offers MFA, you should enable it to add an extra layer of protection against cybercriminals. MFA most often works by texting or emailing you a one-time passcode to sign into your account.
  • Use public devices with caution: If you need to use a public computer (e.g., at a customer service desk or the library), make sure you sign out of email, a retailer website or any other account you may have accessed.
  • Passwords are like toothbrushes: Don’t share your passwords with anyone, including a family member, your shopping buddy or even your boss. Also, never write down your passwords on a shopping flyer/list or let someone snoop over your shoulder when typing in a password. Always be on alert when standing in those long checkout lines and searching your phone for the next best deal.

According to the most recent Xfinity Cyber Health Report, 78% of respondents admitted to risky behaviors that open themselves up to attack, including reusing passwords across two or more platforms (56%), neglecting to install recommended software updates on smart devices (28%) or even sharing passwords with someone else (24%).

Shoppers are particularly vulnerable during the holiday season. Between Black Friday, Cyber Monday and general holiday shopping, you may be at risk of being lured by bargains and clicking on a fake ad, website or auction listing, where personal or financial information can be captured and stolen.

Guard against social engineering scams — phishing (email), smishing (SMS text) or vishing (voice calls) — this holiday season by following these cyber-savvy best practices:

  • Never share sensitive information over the phone: No matter how “official” the caller sounds, do not share your account information, credit card number, PIN or login credentials. Even if it’s a familiar number, use caution. Phone numbers can be spoofed to look like a call is coming from a legitimate source.
  • Always double-check web addresses: A website’s URL can tell you a lot about its security. When visiting a website, look for “https://” at the beginning of the web address, indicating that the data going to and coming from the website’s server is encrypted.
  • Scrutinize texts as you would emails: Never reply to an SMS/text message that you suspect might be fraudulent, and do not click on any suspicious links within a text message.

Preserve the magic of the season by keeping these cyber-savvy tips in mind. It’s a good idea to check in with your internet service provider to see what security solutions they offer for their home gateways. For example, Comcast’s xFi Advanced Security service protects millions of home users and can add safe browsing and data protection while on the go through xFi Complete. With the right tools and security habits, you can help protect yourself and shop safely this holiday season.

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5 tips to breeze through holiday travel https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42468/ 240931042468 Tue, 21 Nov 2023 08:01:00 GMT (BPT) - Holidays bring loads of obstacles, from finding the right gift to cooking intricate meals and, perhaps most stressfully, holiday travel. Holiday travel is a necessary expense for over 130 million Americans, according to NerdWallet’s 2023 Holiday Travel Report.

If you fall into this group, we are here to help prepare with tips and tricks from none other than Daniel Ricciardo, a professional Formula One driver for Red Bull Racing who is accustomed to traveling all over the globe from race to race. He shared his favorite insights to help make sure your car is prepped and ready. “As an F1 driver, I have encountered every type of terrain and weather you can imagine and have shared the track and the road with some pretty wild drivers. Here are five things I always keep in mind and encourage others do as well to make their holiday travel as smooth and safe as possible.”

  1. The first recommendation from Ricciardo is to skip out on taking your car and get a rental car for the trip. Rentals come with plenty of benefits. By using a rental, you’re not putting loads of miles on your car, and you are often driving in a new model that offers features your cars at home may not have, like a large on-screen GPS navigation, remote start or heated seats. You can also choose a vehicle that’s as big or small as you would like to help make travel comfier or more fuel efficient, depending on what you want to prioritize.
  2. If you don’t plan on taking a rental car, Ricciardo recommends that you take yours in for a tuneup. While your car should always be getting regular tuneups, it is important to prioritize them before big trips. Make sure that the tires are checked, oil levels are ideal and that there is enough windshield wiper fluid to prepare you for any weather ahead. Something as small as a worn-out windshield wiper can become a big issue on a road trip, whether it is an hour-long drive across town or a cross-country road trip. If your car is properly prepared it will save you money, stress and energy.
  3. Another great way to save money on the road is by fueling up at Exxon or Mobil stations across the country with your Exxon Mobil Rewards+ app. “Having just wrapped up the ultimate road trip, the Grand Tauro, filling up with the Exxon Mobil Rewards+ app was smooth and seamless,” Ricciardo explains. “The app also offers indoor payment, so I was able to go in and grab my favorite road trip snacks and get out quickly, all while earning points towards savings on fuel, snacks and more!” Plus, you can also take advantage of the Exxon Mobil Rewards+ app’s birthday reward by getting 100 points after you make a purchase in your birthday month using the app at your local Exxon or Mobil station. Just add your birthday in your profile to gain access. You can learn more about the Exxon Mobil Rewards+ app by visiting https://www.exxon.com/en/rewards-program.
  4. Always be prepared. Make sure that you and your car are ready for any situation that might come your way. Ricciardo suggests packing an emergency kit in your trunk to keep you safe in those worst-case scenarios. The emergency kit should have water, blankets, snacks, a first aid kit, jumper cables and a flashlight. All these items can help you and your loved ones stay safe if something were to happen to your car during your journey.
  5. Whether you’re driving around the block or across the country, drivers should always be paying attention to their surroundings — especially when difficult road conditions, like ice or snow, present themselves this holiday season. Make sure your driver stays alert and aware of other vehicles around them. Plus, if they start to feel tired or distracted, they should pull over to take a quick break or have another person in the car take over driving until they are mentally prepared to drive again.

If you follow these five tips while prepping and executing your holiday travel, you will set yourself up for a safe and relaxing holiday trip. That way, you can stress less about your travel plans and more about your gift giving skills.

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5 easy cleaning tips to get your home holiday-ready https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/41861/ 237831041861 Tue, 21 Nov 2023 02:01:00 GMT (BPT) - Do you love hosting during the holidays, but not the cleaning? If so, you're probably looking for ways to make your preparations go more smoothly so you can get to the fun stuff — like enjoying the festivities with your friends and family. Fortunately, you can make your home look presentable in less time with a few tried-and-true techniques that focus on making your home look more inviting.

To create a more welcoming, open — and clean — space that's ready to set the stage for your holiday celebrations, try these approaches.

1. Do a quick clutter dump

Have a half hour or so to spare? You can do a lot in a short amount of time with this cleaning hack: To quickly clear a room of clutter, grab a trash bag and a basket that are both easy to carry, then walk through rooms where you plan to host your next get-together. Pick up anything that needs to be thrown out to put in your trash bag, or if it's out of place, to put in your basket.

When the trash bag is full, bring it out to your trash container right away. If it's not full, empty smaller trash containers around the house to fill it up before taking it out. Don't wait till your basket is completely filled to take a break. When your basket is about half full (and still easy to carry), bring those items to the rooms where they belong. Stray dishes? In the kitchen. Dirty socks? The laundry hamper. You get the idea.

Need helpers? This is an easy game for kids to play — just give them a small basket and have them hunt for toys and other items that can go in their rooms.

2. Look for excess furniture

Step back and take a good look at your living room or other main entertaining areas. Is there space enough for people to move around without too much difficulty? Or do you have too many side tables, ottomans or other small furniture pieces interrupting the room's flow? Remove them — temporarily, anyway — well before your holiday party to make it easier for people to gather.

Bonus: With less in the room, this is also a great opportunity to rearrange things, if you can see a better way to place your large furniture.

3. Use the best tools for the job

To make cleaning even easier, and even enjoyable, use equipment that's designed to be simple, effective and convenient. For example, the Casabella® Clean Water Spin Mop makes cleaning your floors a breeze, with a dual bucket system separating the clean and dirty water, and double handles that combine to form one — and a comfortable grip for easy carrying from room to room. Using this mop is so simple that it's fun, with an easy-to-use pedal that spins the mop in the bucket to remove dirty water. Its built-in cleaning solution ratio cup helps you get the ratio right, every time, and the dirty water pour spout makes for easy disposal. Best yet, the easily detachable, reusable mop head is machine washable.

Find this and other handy household tools at Casabella.com.

4. Let your floors set the tone

Speaking of mopping, you've probably noticed that a clean floor makes any room seem instantly brighter and fresher. Be sure to take out small rugs or anything that might be a tripping hazard before cleaning and having guests over. The good news is that your vacuuming, sweeping and mopping will be a lot easier after you've gotten some of that clutter out of the way, so get ready to attack your floors with gusto!

Pro tip: To help keep your floors clean ahead of the party, make sure you have large, sturdy doormats, inside and out, and that everyone in the house uses them.

5. What's on the surface?

Before you can dust any of your tables, counters, shelves or desks, you need to remove excess items. If your initial clutter dump left things behind, like mementos or other things you like to display in your living areas, consider moving at least some of them to a higher shelf, or store them for a while, to allow room for people to set down glasses or plates — and for you to be able to clean surfaces with ease.

Designate one or two areas per room for displaying treasured items that make good conversation starters, then box up the rest to sort out another day.

Using these tips, you'll be able to get your home ready for the holiday in no time, with a smile on your face!

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Everything you need to know about maximizing rewards this holiday shopping season https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42363/ 240331042363 Mon, 20 Nov 2023 23:01:00 GMT (BPT) - The holidays are around the corner, and economic pressures are reshaping consumer behavior when it comes to shopping, buying gifts, and celebrating the season. In fact, a new survey from PayPal revealed 1 in 5 respondents are feeling anxious about holiday shopping this year. To help combat this anxiety, nearly half (49%) of people are planning to seek out promotions and deals as they shop for gifts1.

Savvy shoppers know that one of the best ways to stretch a gifting budget and cross everyone off your list is by maximizing the rewards and cashback you can receive from each purchase. In fact, one in four (26%) people surveyed said they plan to wait to buy a gift until they find the best sale or rewards and cashback offer. With holiday sales upon us, these tips will help you strategically earn and leverage rewards and cashback to become a smart holiday shopper.

1. Pile on the rewards

If you’re shopping, you should be earning rewards — plain and simple! If you’ve already been racking up rewards points during the year, the holiday season is a great time to use them. But if you don’t already use a rewards program, it’s not too late to start collecting and redeeming points for exclusive discounts and cash back offers.

You can earn PayPal Rewards by shopping cash back offers from thousands of stores in the PayPal app, or while you shop using the PayPal Honey shopping extension. Better yet, you can stack your rewards. Points earned in the PayPal app are in addition to the rewards earned with your preferred rewards-based credit or debit card when checking out with PayPal2. If you use the PayPal Cashback Mastercard®3, you'll earn 3% cash back in addition to rewards earned in the PayPal app when you use the card to check out, and 2% on all other purchases — with no cash back limits, no categories and no annual fee4. A smart shopping move, indeed.

2. Don’t leave cash back on the table

While you're on the hunt for the perfect gifts and deals, leaving cash back opportunities unclaimed is like walking away from free money. The beauty of cash back is that it provides you with real, tangible savings and better equips you to tick off names from your gift list without emptying your wallet. PayPal offers a one-stop shop for cash back convenience and makes it easy to maximize your cash back potential, making the most of your holiday budget.

You can shop exclusive cash back offers from your favorite stores in the PayPal app, on everything from beauty, to fashion, or the toys that are topping every kid’s wish list. Simply save the offers you’re interested in and they’ll be automatically applied when you check out with PayPal online. Even better, you can also stack credit card rewards on top of existing deals you find in the PayPal app. For example, if you shop with the PayPal Cashback Mastercard®, you’ll earn 3% cashback when checking out with PayPal in addition to what you gain from offers while shopping in the PayPal app.

Earning cashback is a great way to shop smarter and make the holiday season truly memorable.

3. Automate your deal searching

Don’t let the busyness of the season prevent you from scoring some of the best offers on your holiday shopping. Consumers often spend hours searching for discounts, when they could be out enjoying the holiday season. Consider adding the PayPal Honey shopping extension to your holiday shopping routine, which will automatically search for coupons and cashback deals to apply at checkout5.

Whether you’re looking for the latest tech gift for a gadget-obsessed teenager, new fashion for your best friend or booking a trip home for the holidays, the PayPal Honey shopping extension can save you time – and money – by searching millions of promo codes at thousands of sites in seconds and discovering cash back deals to take your holiday budget further.

4. Be sales savvy and price watch

Being a smart shopper isn’t just about finding the right gifts — it’s also about finding the right time to shop at the best price. Shopping around can help you score the best deals on gifts for the holidays, but with so much on your plate this season, it can be hard to find the time. Price trackers like the PayPal Honey Droplist feature can help.

PayPal Honey Droplist will monitor the price of an item you’re interested in and automatically notify you if the price drops — so you can hit buy at the right moment and snag the best discount. Plus, when you shop using PayPal Honey, you earn PayPal Rewards which can be converted to cash back.

In the past 12 months, PayPal has put more than $200 million back in customer pockets with cash back and offers6. Are you one of the savvy shoppers that took advantage of cash back and deals this year? If not, it’s never too late. Using these tips, you should be able to shop smarter, not harder, this year — so you can stretch your holiday budget and enjoy all the fun and festivities the season has to offer.

  1. PayPal Consumer Survey October 2023 (1,000 respondents).
  2. Subject to card issuer’s terms and conditions.
  3. Applications are subject to credit approval. The PayPal Cashback Mastercard is issued by Synchrony Bank pursuant to a license by Mastercard International Incorporated. Purchases are subject to credit approval, and the PayPal Cashback Mastercard must be used for payment. See Rewards Program Terms for details and restrictions.
  4. See Terms and Rates for New Accounts.
  5. Eligible items only. Redeem points for cash and other rewards. Requires account with PayPal in good standing. Terms and exclusions apply.
  6. Internal PayPal Data October 2023.
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Shop small, shop smart: How to gift something that means something https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42253/ 239711042253 Mon, 20 Nov 2023 18:01:00 GMT (BPT) - By Sarah Acton, Chief Marketing Officer at BILL

One of the best holiday gifts I have been given was a pair of earrings from a small women-owned shop near my home in Palo Alto, California. My husband gave them to me for Christmas many years ago, and every time I wear them, I am reminded of that wonderful feeling of opening them for the first time. The gift itself is small, but it holds such sentimental value to me because of who it came from, and also where it came from. Those earrings are one of a kind, crafted by a woman from a local community that I love.

We’re fast approaching the season of bright lights and dazzling marketing campaigns from large retailers, enticing people to ‘buy big’. In my career, I’ve led marketing teams for some of the biggest brands in the world, so I know these approaches well. But I’ve also run my own small business selling toys and children’s items, and now at BILL, I spend my days championing small and midsize businesses (SMBs). Which is why this year I’m looking at the holiday season through a different lens: how can we get more people to shop small?

Small businesses play a hugely important role in our holiday traditions. When you buy from a small business, you’re not just buying a ‘thing’. You’re buying a piece of a larger story, a testament to the grit and passion of its creators. When you choose a gift from a small business, you're not just purchasing a product; you're conveying a story, adding a personal touch that can't be replicated.

Buying from small businesses is not only an investment in a great gift – it’s also an investment in your local community. Small businesses are the lifeblood of our communities. They are the job creators and innovators. When local businesses are thriving, our local economies are too.

To celebrate and support these pillars of our community, we have curated a selection of small businesses for you to explore this holiday season. At BILL, we love to highlight our SMB customers and encourage everyone to shop small. Each of these businesses has a unique story to tell, a dream they are passionately pursuing. And as a token of our support for both these businesses and you, our customers, we're offering special codes from BILL, allowing you to save on each purchase.

Clothing and Accessories

Dagne Dover

Dagne Dover, established in 2013 by three women, is dedicated to crafting problem-solving bags for individuals seeking efficient and stylish solutions. Rooted in empathy and excellent design, the brand's commitment to enhancing lives aligns with their eco-conscious initiatives, employing non-toxic materials and implementing waste reduction strategies. Championing sustainability, they embrace animal-friendly practices and encourage eco-friendly fashion through resale options. Get 15% off first purchase with exclusive code BILL15.

Kizik

Kizik is a footwear brand redefining everyday comfort and style by revolutionizing shoe functionality. With a commitment to making life easier, their HandsFree Labs® technology eliminates the need for tying shoes, offering unparalleled convenience without compromising fashion. Backed by numerous patents, Kizik shoes seamlessly blend hands-free design with durable, high-quality materials, ensuring comfort and resilience for each step. Get 20% off with code BILL20.

Rhone

Rhone is a performance-driven clothing brand catering to an active lifestyle, inspiring progress and movement with each piece. Focused on versatility and integrity, their clothing is designed to empower individuals, never compromising on comfort and style. Their mission involves inspiring progress through honest storytelling and cause-based initiatives, fostering a supportive community where individuals share a common pursuit of advancement and wellness. Get 20% off with code BILL20.

Enso Rings

Enso Rings redefines traditional ring choices with their silicone bands, offering versatile, comfortable and safe alternatives for various lifestyles. Enso offers an array of styles, including their Elements collection infused with popular metals, delivering personalized, stylish rings mirroring precious metals' appearance while maintaining practicality. Get 20% off with code BILL20.

Home and Lifestyle

Cozy Earth

Cozy Earth embodies an ethos of continual quality improvement and purposeful design, crafting high-end, eco-friendly products. Committed to superior quality and backed by a lengthy warranty, Cozy Earth's focus on enhancing daily life through comfort and tranquility marks their dedication to responsible, superior and innovative production. Their signature breathable and durable fabrics offer a superior sleep experience, reflecting the brand's commitment to both luxury and responsibility. Get 35% off with code BILL35.

Caraway Home

Caraway is dedicated to revolutionizing home cooking through thoughtfully designed, non-toxic cookware. Their ceramic-coated aluminum products prioritize health and ease, with no harmful chemicals like PTFE or lead, promoting healthier cooking without compromising performance. Complementing any home, their high-quality, eco-friendly and ethically manufactured cookware supports sustainable practices, from production to packaging, ensuring a healthier kitchen and planet. Get 10% off with code bill10.

Impact Dog Crate

Impact Dog Crates is a team of devoted dog lovers committed to providing high-quality, protective dog products. Crafted with top-tier aluminum and powder-coated for safety and aesthetics, their crates are synonymous with durability, comfort and security. The company, based in the Pacific Northwest, focuses on environmentally friendly practices, ensuring quality products while being conscious of their environmental footprint. Get 15% off with code BILL.

Gardyn Inc

Gardyn is a pioneering company committed to revolutionizing the future of food. With cutting-edge technology, including LED lighting, hydroponic cultivation and artificial intelligence, they've redefined the way plants grow — producing an abundance of fresh, nutritious food in indoor vertical gardens. The company's goal is to provide accessible, harmonious and environmentally friendly solutions for the well-being of people and planet. Get $125 off your order with code BILLGIFT.

BrüMate

BrüMate is dedicated to elevating your drinking experience. Their range of products, from coolers to mugs, is designed to enhance every adventure with innovative, multi-functional, stylish drinkware. Committed to superior performance, unique designs and customer satisfaction, BrüMate's cause-driven ethos reflects its core belief in innovation and quality, striving to create a brand that's truly distinctive and forward-thinking. Get 10% off with code BILL10.

iRocker

iRocker is an outdoor gear brand driven by a passion for adventure. Since its inception in 2013, the brand has strived to provide reliable and high-quality paddle boards and water gear that fuel the desire for exploration and outdoor excitement. iRocker's vision is to transform outdoor experiences, aiming to create memories and stories that inspire a life of adventure and fun on the water. Get 10% off with code BILL10 for 10% off iROCKER and BLACKFIN Paddle Boards only. Offer does not apply to NAUTICAL paddle boards.

Wellness and Beauty

Sunwarrior

Sunwarrior is a brand dedicated to your nutritional journey, offering clean, plant-based supplements and proteins. Committed to quality, Sunwarrior provides GMO-free, soy-free, gluten-free and dairy-free ingredients that undergo rigorous testing. Their mission is to enhance your health and well-being through high-quality, organic products, ensuring the best building blocks for optimal body performance. Get 25% off with code BILL25.

Tower 28

Tower 28 is a cosmetics brand providing safe, fun makeup suitable for sensitive skin. The brand's name is inspired by a Los Angeles lifeguard tower, symbolizing safety, community and clean living. Committed to both skin safety and environmental conservation, Tower 28 uses at least 50% PCR plastic in its product packaging and donates 100% of its Earth Day profits to Heal the Bay, an organization dedicated to coastal and watershed cleanup in Los Angeles. Get 15% off with code 2023BILL15.

ElleVet Sciences

ElleVet is a pioneer in the pet health industry, initially sparked from a kitchen table conversation. Founded by Amanda and Christian, the company's journey led to groundbreaking CBD and CBDA products for animals. Their commitment to research and science-driven development culminated in the first clinical trial on dogs with joint discomfort, pioneering discoveries and the most downloaded research paper in their field. Get 10% off with code bill10.

Food and Beverage

Salsa Queen

Salsa Queen's origin is deeply rooted in family and perseverance. Beginning as a means of providing for seven children after the tragic loss of a young son, it embodies the founder's journey as a single mother. With a commitment represented in the founder legally adopting the name 'SalsaQueen', the brand's dedication to authenticity and bold flavors without preservatives or fillers has led to widespread success, reaching 1,500 stores across 30 states and shipping products nationwide. Get 20% off with code BILL.

Nossa Familia Coffee

Nossa Familia Coffee is a Portland-based roaster that embraces a legacy of coffee cultivation in Brazil since the 1890s. With a focus on creating positive relationships, ethical sourcing, and social and environmental responsibility, Nossa Familia brings exceptional farm-direct coffee from Brazil and various parts of the world. Get 15% off your order with code Bill15.

1911 Hard Cider

1911 traces its origins to Beak & Skiff Apple Orchards, founded in 1911 by George Skiff and Andrew Beak in Lafayette, New York. With a commitment to quality and innovation spanning over a century, the brand's products, including hard ciders, spirits and wines, are handcrafted and processed in-house, reflecting a heritage of small-batch beverages intended to honor the legacy of their forefathers. Get $25 online store credit when joining the 1911 Hard Cider Club.

Biscuit Love

Biscuit Love, founded by culinary school graduates Karl and Sarah Worley in 2012, began as an Airstream food truck and has evolved into a cherished family-owned restaurant. With its humble beginnings and just three menu items, the brand expanded into brick-and-mortar locations in Nashville's The Gulch area in 2015. Accompanied by jam or sausage gravy, these biscuits have become beloved nationwide. Get free shipping and $20 off your first order with code GOLDB3LLYIT.

Savannah Bee Company

Savannah Bee Co. operates with a profound commitment to bees, focusing on fostering healthy ecosystems and ensuring the prosperity of these vital pollinators. By providing hives, educating students and donating to local educational programs, they're dedicated to saving the bees and the planet, inviting customers to participate in this critical cause with every purchase. Get 20% sitewide with code BILL20.

To find more holiday gift ideas, check out the BILL Customer Gift Guide. As a champion of SMBs, we are passionate about supporting SMBs and committed to providing innovative and accessible solutions for our customers to automate their financial operations. When SMBs thrive, so do their communities. To learn more, visit Bill.com/Resources.

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Holiday Travel with Your Credit Card https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42501/ 241091042501 Mon, 20 Nov 2023 15:59:00 GMT (BPT) - The most wonderful time of the year is right around the corner! As we enter the holiday season, many people are prepping their Christmas plans and travel arrangements.

While it’s fun to go see family and friends, there are already plenty of costs that add up during this time of the year. The best gift of all is paying less for your travel. And thanks to credit card rewards, this is a possibility.

Vacation costs can pile up with airfare, hotels, car rentals, and more, but you can alleviate some of these costs with your credit card rewards. These programs allow you to make the most out of your travels. Rather than worrying about the price tag, you can focus on spending time with your loved ones during the holidays.

There are so many types of credit cards out there, so it’s important to look at the variety of rewards that different cards offer before you decide on which one to get. For instance, several credit cards offer signup bonuses, different earning rates, and redemption options by simply choosing the card. Signing up for a rewards credit card is an investment in yourself. Once you’ve signed up for the card, you can start utilizing all the great benefits!

Many different credit cards cater toward travel expenses and offer a long list of deals that you wouldn’t have access to otherwise. Not only can you use rewards points toward your flight, but there are also other travel perks with credit card rewards that you may not have even known about, such as airport lounge access, travel insurance, or baggage protection, to name a few.

Additionally, there is usually a list of hotels, car rentals, restaurants, and more that partner with these different rewards programs to give you access to low-rate stays and premium options for less. Depending on what you value as a traveler, there is a reward card to meet every consumer’s needs. If you haven’t already, take advantage of your credit card benefits, maximize the value of your travel rewards, and start packing for your holiday vacation!

Currently, proposed legislation could reduce credit card rewards programs, meaning consumers will no longer have access to travel benefits. Many people rely on these benefits and it’s important for these programs to continue so consumers and businesses can benefit for many holidays to come.

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Credit Cards Are a Win-Win for Small Businesses and Consumers https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42502/ 241091042502 Mon, 20 Nov 2023 15:37:00 GMT (BPT) - In our rapidly changing world, digital transactions are increasingly preferred, with more consumers opting for electronic payments, including contactless methods. Credit cards, a standard part of daily life, offer benefits to consumers while supporting small businesses. They serve as vital tools for managing costly expenses over time, addressing unforeseen financial needs, and establishing a positive credit history that can aid in securing loans for your first home or vehicle.

Here are a few key reasons credit cards are valuable for consumers and small businesses alike:

Credit Card Perks For Consumers:

  1. Customers Value Rewards: Credit cards offer different rewards programs, such as cash back, points, or miles. Many people rely on those travel rewards and cash back to plan more affordable vacations and unique experiences they otherwise might not be able to afford if they have to pay full price.
  2. Fraud Protection: Credit cards provide an additional level of protection against fraud that other payment options simply can’t offer, making them the preferred payment method for 79% of Americans for security reasons, according to a PYMNTS study. Purchases with a credit card are routed through secure payment networks with fraud prevention measures lined up to help eliminate data security risks. This makes credit cards not only the more convenient form of payment, but the safer option too.
  3. Customer Convenience: CNBC reported that the travel industry took a hit after the COVID-19 pandemic. So much so that many tourism and transportation rental companies have significantly reduced their fleet to avoid bankruptcy, creating limited stock for customers in need of rentals. Credit cards provide the convenience of pre-booking services like rental cars or hotel rooms, making them particularly advantageous for coordinating travel plans, with many hotels and tourism companies offering discounts and additional perks for credit card payments.
  4. Building A Secure Future: Credit cards allow consumers to build a solid credit foundation that will support the need to take out loans on the big purchases down the road, like buying a house or car.

Benefits for Small Businesses:

  1. Customer Convenience: People are more likely to have their credit card handy than to have exact cash for a purchase. Businesses that allow credit card transactions give customers the flexibility and freedom to pay their way, both in-store and online.
  2. Business Credit Cards Build Your Brand: A designated credit card for consumers can be a strategic tool for small businesses to attract and retain customers, foster loyalty, and provide insights into customer behavior. They can also drive customers to make larger purchases and increase overall sales.
  3. Enhanced Financial Control: Allowing credit card transactions may simplify expense tracking and financial management, helping small businesses maintain better control over their finances. Credit card payments can also improve a company’s cash flow by ensuring timely and secure transactions, reducing the risks associated with delayed or failed payments.

A proposed credit card routing bill, if enacted, could adversely affect small businesses and consumers, by potentially cutting rewards programs and reducing data security. It’s important to maintain the numerous advantages that credit cards provide to individuals. Credit cards are versatile tools that offer enhanced security and rewards for consumers while providing numerous benefits for small businesses, including customer convenience, brand enhancement, and improved financial control.

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3 Ways to Utilize Your Credit Card for Holiday Shopping https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42500/ 241091042500 Mon, 20 Nov 2023 14:41:00 GMT (BPT) - 'Tis the season to shop wisely, and your credit card can be a powerful tool in navigating the holiday spending landscape. Beyond being a convenient and safe payment method, credit cards offer many benefits for consumers to leverage during their holiday shopping. Whether you earn travel miles or cash-back rewards through your credit card, the holidays are a great time to maximize your credit spending while also ensuring financial responsibility. Take a look at the three best ways below to utilize your credit card during the festive shopping season.

1. Maximizing Credit Card Rewards

We’re sure you’ve heard of a multitude of options available in terms of rewards when applying for a credit card. Choosing a credit card that offers generous rewards for purchases allows you to gain points and miles, which can then be redeemed for discounts or freebies. These credit cards present a valuable opportunity to offset holiday expenses, effectively turning your spending into savings!

By strategically choosing when and where to use your card, you can maximize these rewards, ensuring you get the most value for every dollar spent. It's a smart and savvy way to make your holiday shopping not only enjoyable but financially rewarding.

If you’re planning to travel during the holidays, using a credit card that offers great miles is also extremely beneficial. Nowadays, many airlines and payment networks collaborate on co-branded credit cards that offer great perks. You can beat the holiday rush by having access to security lines and airport lounges.

2. Utilizing Cash-back to Your Advantage

Cash-back programs offered by credit cards allow shoppers to earn a percentage of their spending back in the form of real money or statement credits. Many co-branded credit cards today offer great cash back which can be a helpful tool to offset expensive costs. It’s also helpful to save the accumulated cash back over time, allowing it to grow and serve as a financial cushion or contribute toward larger financial goals. Choosing the right cash-back rewards program can help you save money and ensure your credit score stays high. Whether purchasing gifts, decorations, or holiday feasts, the cash back earned serves as a valuable bonus.

3. Building Your Credit

Building your credit by using a credit card during holiday shopping can be advantageous for consumers in several ways, such as improving your credit score, establishing a good credit history, and enhancing security measures.

Responsible credit card usage during the holiday season contributes positively to your credit history, demonstrating to creditors that you can manage credit responsibly. Timely payments on your credit card can boost your credit score over time, opening doors to better loan terms, lower interest rates, and increased financial flexibility in the future.

Credit cards often come with robust fraud protection measures. Using your credit card for holiday shopping can enhance security, and if unauthorized transactions occur, you are typically not held responsible for fraudulent charges.

Overall, the holidays are a great time to prioritize using your credit cards to ensure a financially rewarding and responsible experience. By maximizing your rewards and cash-back opportunities you can make larger purchases for your friends and family, while also building an effective credit history.

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Holiday gift guide for people living with dementia and their caregivers https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42492/ 241021042492 Mon, 20 Nov 2023 14:33:00 GMT (BPT) - Holiday shopping and gift-giving can often be challenging, but even more so when shopping for a person living with dementia. There are more than 6 million Americans living with Alzheimer’s disease. Depending on the stage of disease, some well-intentioned gifts may no longer be appropriate or practical for the person.

For the holiday season, the Alzheimer's Association has released its 2023 Holiday Gift Guide, offering gift ideas for individuals living in the early, middle and late stages of Alzheimer’s disease. The guide also includes gift suggestions aimed at keeping those living with dementia engaged and involved in everyday tasks, as well as gift ideas for the 11 million family members and friends across the country serving as unpaid caregivers for these individuals.

5 gifts for people living with Alzheimer's – in the early stages

  • Sticky notes or an erasable white board to list reminders or the day’s activities.
  • Baskets or trays that can be labeled within cabinets or drawers.
  • Gift cards for ride-sharing services or a favorite activity (golf, movie, restaurant) allowing the person to remain active.
  • GPS trackers (bracelets, watches, small trackers) or enrollment in a safe return program to keep the person safe.
  • A “memory” calendar featuring family photos — write in special family occasions such as birthdays and anniversaries.

5 gifts for people living with Alzheimer's – in the middle-to-late stages

  • Music playlists that include the person’s favorite artists or songs.
  • Comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that is easy to put on, remove and wash, such as sweat suits, slip-on blouses/shirts, non-slip socks, Velcro shoes, wrinkle-free nightgowns, nightshirts or a fluffy bathrobe.
  • Framed photographs or a photo collage created specifically for your loved one. Insert the names of the people in the photos to help with identification.
  • Soothing gifts that can help with anxiety like a handheld massage ball or a soft blanket.
  • Adaptive dining equipment such as no-spill cups, plate guards and silverware with specifically designed handles that enables greater independence during meals.

5 gifts to help with everyday tasks and keep the person living with Alzheimer’s engaged:

  • A memory phone that can store pictures with the names and contact information of family and friends.
  • Nightlights that activate automatically when it gets dark.
  • A digital clock with large type to indicate date and time.
  • An outing to a movie, play or concert, sporting event, museum or possibly an organized holiday shopping trip with friends and family.
  • Engage your loved one in making homemade gifts for the family, painting ornaments, decorating stockings, table setting, scrapbooking or other activity gifts.

5 gifts for dementia caregivers

  • The most important gift you can give a dementia caregiver is the gift of time. In fact, just a 20-minute break each day can help lower a caregiver’s stress and help avoid burnout.
  • Self-made coupons for cleaning the house, cooking a meal, mowing the lawn or shoveling the driveway.
  • Gift cards and certificates for restaurants or meal delivery, laundry/dry cleaning services, lawn care services, computer/technology support, maid services, and personal pampering services such as massages and pedicures.
  • Books – in addition to giving novels on the caregiver's "must read" list, there are a number of books on caregiving and maintaining self-health.
  • Self-care items such as a bundle of personal care items (moisturizers, bath bombs and soaks, foot creams, scrubs, soaps).

For more tips on how families affected by Alzheimer’s and other dementias can safely enjoy time with family and friends during the holidays, visit the Alzheimer’s Association website. The Alzheimer’s Association provides information, programs and services at no charge to help families facing Alzheimer’s disease or another dementia. For additional information, visit alz.org or call the free 24-hour Helpline at 800.272.3900.

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4 Easy Ways to Shop on Small Business Saturday https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/41391/ 234511041391 Mon, 20 Nov 2023 14:01:00 GMT (BPT) - It's that time of year again, where people rush out of their homes to find gifts for family and friends. Those gifts are important, but your choice of where you buy those gifts holds power — power to grow your local community. You can make a huge difference with your dollars, supporting those who support your community or your values with each purchase. You can protect where your food comes from by filling your fridge wisely, or you can make a local business owner’s day by walking through the door of their shop on what has become commonly referred to as “Small Business Saturday.” And finding those opportunities can be easy when you look in the right places.

The holiday season is about more than just shopping for the best possible deal, it’s a way to celebrate and support the heart of our local economies. Let’s make this holiday season a win-win for you and your community with a few simple strategies:

Tip 1: Fill Your Fridge Wisely

We all need to eat, and every trip to the grocery store offers a new way to support small businesses. Did you know that many foods are distributed by groups of farmers that band together to create more equitable businesses and that those businesses are called cooperatives? That’s a simple explanation, but cooperatives are often an overlooked and convenient way to support small businesses in the grocery aisle. Instead of your dollars heading to one corporation or conglomerate this holiday season, consider spending your milk (or eggnog) money on food from the small businesses that own cooperatives.

For example, Organic Valley is a cooperative owned by small organic family farms. In fact, Organic Valley just welcomed over 70 more small family farms, all small businesses, into their cooperative this year. If you are selective in the grocery store this season, you can support those small organic family farms by choosing Organic Valley products. Other brands in the grocery store from different farmer-owned cooperatives include Florida’s Natural®, Ocean Spray®, Blue Diamond®, and many more.

Tip 2: Make Your Way to Mainstreet

Your own hometown is likely a treasure trove of local businesses, each offering warm welcomes and unique finds. These small businesses are the backbone of your community, providing a personal touch that's often missing in big-box stores. Many communities have a chamber of commerce that provides information about the businesses in your local community waiting for you to walk through the door. In fact, a quick Google search of “Chamber of Commerce Near Me” should do the trick.

One of the easiest ways to find a place to shop for Small Business Saturday is to get to the Mainstreet of your community and find businesses with Small Business Saturday marked on their door! This website is the hub of businesses participating in the official Small Business Saturday program taking place this Saturday, November 25.

Tip 3: Ask A Simple Question Online

You might be surprised at who owns or helps with small businesses in your area — it might just be your family and friends. Consider posting to your favorite social media platform an open question like, “What small business do you recommend I support this holiday season?” and watch the floodgates open. So many people have friends and family that have started interesting businesses, and you might be surprised at what you find.

Another online option is to ask that same question in a group dedicated to an interest you have. For instance, if you love to bake, ask a baking group on Facebook or Reddit that same question and find a whole new set of answers.

Tip 4: Attend Local Markets and Pop-Up Shops

The holiday season is the perfect time to check out local markets and pop-up shops in your area. These events are often organized to showcase local businesses and artisans. They provide a great opportunity to discover new products, meet the creators, and learn more about the stories behind their businesses. Attending these events not only supports the small businesses directly but also contributes to the local economy and community spirit.

By making your way to local brick-and-mortar businesses in your own community, choosing products from cooperatives, asking for recommendations online, and attending local markets, you're not just buying a product — you're investing in someone's dream and your community's future. Every purchase, no matter how small, can make a real difference.

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How to enjoy the 12 Days of Beachmas in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/41002/ 232561041002 Mon, 20 Nov 2023 12:25:00 GMT (BPT) - If you're ready to turn your winter holidays from ho-hum to ho-ho-ho, you're in luck. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, is making the most of the winter season with festive holiday offerings to delight visitors of all ages. If you've never imagined spending your holiday season on a beach, it's time to envision winter on The Beach, with their 12 Days of Beachmas.

To please every visitor attracted by their 60 miles of sun-soaked coastline, Myrtle Beach is pulling out all the stops to help you and your loved ones make memories to last a lifetime.

For a highlight of holiday activities the Grand Strand has to offer this winter, Visit Myrtle Beach put together "12 Days of Beachmas" — a list of 12 fantastic unique experiences every visitor should check twice!

1. Winter Wonderland at The Beach is back — bigger, brighter and beachier than ever. Winter Wonderland Lights will be displayed nightly Nov. 14, 2023, through Jan. 1, 2024, from 6-9 p.m. Their Winter Wonderland Festival takes place Dec. 1-3, 2023, in Plyler Park, along the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk with spectacular activities like the free Winter Wonderland Drone Show and S’mores on the Boardwalk to warm up your holiday season.

2. Dazzling holiday shows and live entertainment will satisfy any taste. Immerse yourself in the joy of the season at major holiday shows such as The Carolina Opry Christmas Special, or sing along to your favorite festive tunes at one of The Beach's many live music venues.

3. Seasonal strolls let you stretch your legs, whether under sunny blue skies or along inviting park trails. Soak up the beauty of Brookgreen Gardens, which offers beautiful botanical displays, an on-site zoo, fascinating historical sites and stunning art collections. Insider's tip: If you didn't score tickets to the spectacular Nights of A Thousand Candles, a daytime trip is the perfect opportunity to explore Brookgreen Gardens in December.

4. Ripley's Festival of Trees will help you celebrate the heritage and diversity of the U.S. with a display of themed trees adorned in decorations and ornaments representing the 55 states and territories. The South Carolina tree is over 18 feet tall! The event is included with general admission to Ripley's Aquarium of Myrtle Beach, Nov. 10 through Dec. 31, 2023.

5. Relaxing spa packages are guaranteed to help you unwind. You can opt for an end-of-the-year relaxation package at one of Myrtle Beach's many first-class spa resorts and retreats, like the full-service offerings at the Cinzia Spa in North Myrtle Beach, or you could indulge in some much-needed self-care by booking your entire stay at the Anderson Ocean Club and Spa.

6. Say 'Cheers' to the year by making a toast on the Myrtle Beach Beer Trail, which takes you on a tour of the area's best local breweries, brewpubs and craft brew experiences. Check off trail stops on the Trail Pass for an opportunity to win fun prizes along the way!

7. Holiday horseback riding: Giddy-up, let's go! Explore miles of scenic coastline with a one-of-a-kind adventure on horseback. Inlet Point Plantation offers custom horseback rides along the beach at sunset to create a truly memorable holiday tradition.

8. Gifts galore can be found everywhere, from local mercantile and artisanal offerings to high-end boutiques and national outlets. Myrtle Beach has countless shopping experiences to help you check off your entire wish list.

9. Festive light shows will put you and your family in the holiday mood. You can feast your eyes on dazzling holiday light shows throughout the Grand Strand. At The Great Christmas Light Show located in the North Myrtle Beach Park and Sports Complex, Nov. 20 through Dec. 30, 2023, you can adventure through over 500 magical light displays and take a stroll through Santa’s Village while sipping a delicious, hot cup of cocoa. Downtown Conway's Celebration of Lights is also sure to delight with more opportunities to see Santa, while marveling at an array of lights on Thursdays through Sundays from Nov. 30 through Dec. 24, 2023.

10. Winter wildlife abounds at numerous wildlife sanctuaries and parks across the region. You can discover Myrtle Beach's stunning seasonal flora and fauna and surround yourself with nature at sites like Huntington Beach State Park, which is known as a top spot for East Coast bird watching.

11. Seasonal cuisine: Sample flavorful local fare at Myrtle Beach's plethora of mouthwatering restaurants. From fresh seafood, traditional southern fare and Gullah dishes to fusion fine dining and unique sweet treats, there's something to satisfy all taste buds at The Beach.

12. Artful celebrations are bound to delight and move you. Marvel at awe-inspiring art installations and masterpieces at museums, galleries and numerous public spaces on the Myrtle Beach Arts and Gallery Trail, featuring over 100 stops around the Grand Strand.

If you're searching for a holiday experience that's warm and welcoming, you'll find much more than just a day at The Beach when you visit Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.

Ready to plan your holiday getaway? Explore all your options at VisitMyrtleBeach.com, or call 888-Myrtle-1.

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6 proven tips to keep your pipes clear this Thanksgiving https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/41803/ 237421041803 Mon, 20 Nov 2023 08:01:00 GMT (BPT) - Thanksgiving should be a time to enjoy a delicious feast and spend time with loved ones. However, many households face plumbing issues the day after this joyous meal.

While most people call the day after Thanksgiving Black Friday, those in the plumbing industry know that day as Brown Friday. According to Mr. Rooter Plumbing, the day after Thanksgiving has historically been the busiest day of the year for plumbers, when they receive a surge of calls about clogged kitchen sinks.

Why do so many sinks clog after Thanksgiving? Cooks and guests often make common mistakes that back up a kitchen’s plumbing system. Don’t let a clogged sink ruin your long holiday weekend. Follow these six expert tips to maintain your plumbing so you can focus on celebrating Thanksgiving.

1. Don’t stuff Thanksgiving favorites down the sink

Cleaning up after a typical Thanksgiving dinner puts a greater strain on your kitchen sink than your daily meals. The greater volume of food and the types of food of a traditional Thanksgiving meal are especially prone to clogging sinks.

For example, potatoes, rice and pasta can also wreak havoc on your plumbing. All three foods are starchy, and when they get wet, they become glue-like and clump together, gumming up your pipes and causing backups, clogs and other issues.

2. Collect and toss oils and fats in the trash

Roast turkey, gravy and other Thanksgiving favorites are rich in fats and oils. As they cool, fats and oils re-solidify, coating your drain and leading to stubborn clogs. To keep your pipes clean and clear, avoid pouring greasy substances down the drain. Instead, collect fats and oils like turkey drippings into cans or containers that you can dispose of once the grease has cooled.

3. Clean your plate!

One of the most common mistakes people make when cleaning up after Thanksgiving dinner is leaving food scraps and grease on plates and cookware that can easily clog up a kitchen sink.

Make sure to have a trash or compost bin handy, so you and your guests can quickly and easily scrape leftover food off plates before placing them in the sink for washing. Also, use paper towels to sop up leftover grease on plates. These simple steps that take a few extra minutes can go a long way in protecting your sink from nasty clogs.

4. Run the garbage disposal when you put food in, not after

If your sink has a garbage disposal, it’s crucial to use it correctly to avoid a clogged drain. A common mistake folks make when running the garbage disposal is to wait until the sink is full of food scraps. However, running the garbage disposal as you put food down the drain lessens the burden on your plumbing system because it can efficiently break down waste into smaller particles that are less likely to create a pipe blockage.

Also, remember to run cold water while operating the garbage disposal to prevent it from overheating, but run hot water after to help dissolve and flush residual grease and oil.

5. Use a food catcher

A food catcher (also called a drain screen or strainer) is another simple and efficient way to prevent food particles from entering your plumbing. Your local grocery or hardware should have food catchers that fit most kitchen sink drains.

When you’re done washing dishes, empty the catcher into the trash and rinse it out. This simple, effective tool easily prevents plumbing issues and can extend the life of your kitchen plumbing.

6. Call a professional

If you’re already experiencing kitchen draining and clogging problems, don’t wait until your guests arrive. Schedule a professional drain inspection or cleaning to keep your plumbing system working in tip-top shape. By taking care of kitchen sink issues as soon as they pop up, you can avoid Brown Friday and prevent costly plumbing repairs down the road.

Using these six proven tips, you can prevent your sink from clogging up and dampening your holiday festivities. To learn more about Brown Friday and how to take care of your plumbing, visit MrRooter.com/BrownFriday.

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Simple swaps to elevate the kitchen for holiday hosting https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/41457/ 234941041457 Sun, 19 Nov 2023 23:01:00 GMT (BPT) - As the heart of the home, the kitchen comes even more alive during the holiday season. From baking favorite treats and preparing beloved family dishes to hosting special events of all sizes, it’s the hub of the holidays.

To prepare for all the buzz and make a great first impression on guests, consider upgrades to elevate the kitchen space. A few smart swaps and simple additions will enhance your kitchen to make it stylish and functional — both must-haves for the holidays and into the new year.

1. Create cohesiveness with hardware

Just like the right accessories complete an outfit, new drawer pulls and knobs can polish a kitchen aesthetic and provide cohesiveness. Remove old hardware and replace it with quality options in modern finishes and designs to add a touch of sophistication. Consider matte black or modern brass which are currently trending, but also timeless finishes.

2. A new faucet adds function

An old, dated faucet can be an eyesore that lacks functionality. Swap in the Edelyn kitchen faucet by Kohler x Studio McGee for a fresh look with a distinguished, high-profile spout and clean lines. Beyond its striking appearance, the faucet is practical, providing three spray functions for tackling kitchen tasks. With multiple finish options, matching to your kitchen design is a breeze.

3. Find containers for functional items

As much as you use your cupboard and pantry for storage, there are certain items like dish soap, coffee and sugar that you keep on the countertop for easy access. You can easily elevate the look of your kitchen by putting everyday items into special containers. For example, dish soap can be stored in an olive oil decanter that looks pretty next to the sink.

4. Enhance functionality with layered lighting

Drab, dated lighting fixtures make it difficult to get kitchen tasks done. Consider upgrading with Keren Lighting and Embra Lighting by Kohler x Studio McGee that allow you to thoughtfully layer task, ambient and accent lighting. With timeless design elements like glass spheres and textured details in numerous finishes, you’ll add fashion in addition to function to the kitchen.

5. Refresh the walls with paint and more

A new coat of paint is one of the easiest ways to update the kitchen aesthetic. Earth tones are popular in kitchens as well as nature-inspired greens and blues. You might even consider adding wallpaper to a focal wall or as an alternative to a tile backsplash. Adding a few pieces of art can also enhance the kitchen appearance.

The kitchen provides the backdrop for many important memories. From celebrations to sharing recipes to handing down cooking traditions, it’s important to create a space that is beautiful and functional. For more ideas and inspiration for kitchen upgrades, visit Kohler.com.

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