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The pandemic is impacting individuals differently. One thing is for sure though, that it’s still taking some getting used to. With so many rules and regulations to pay attention to, it’s all enough to make you lose your mind but staying at home is by far the most effective way to flatten the curve.

Although it’s essential, we also acknowledge that being stuck at home might mean that you are more restless, tense, and bored than you have been for a while. And if you have kids, schools may be out for the foreseeable future, which means that there are a lot more hours in between the day to fill up that should be used for entertaining everyone in the household. 

As you probably already know, entertaining kids is no small feat; it’s certainly not for the faint of heart. Sure, you could always let them watch hours of TV because it will buy you a little peace and quiet when you need it. However, giving your kids unlimited screen time is no way to spend time during this quarantine period.

With most spaces only opening up gradually, you’ll find that a lot of the playgrounds, community spaces, and stores that you once loved are still closed. Lucky for you, there are still lots of things that you can do when it comes to keeping yourself and your kids entertained during the quarantine. To prevent you from going stir crazy, here are things that you can do- and you don’t even have to leave your backyard to enjoy them:

1) Set up and backyard ping pong tournament

If you are still doing the responsible thing and staying at home as much as possible, it only makes sense that you want to make full use of your side, front, or back yard. One of the simplest things that you can do outdoors is to organize some lawn games such as a ping pong tournament.

Since you’ll be hosting a game at home, there’s no need to follow all the rules of ping pong. You can have a totally reasonable game with a few paddles, a ping pong table, and a few participants. If you don’t have a ping pong table, simply grab your dining table and create some boundaries and markings.

2) Throw an impromptu Karaoke session

If you are a shower singer or just love music in general, an impromptu Karaoke session can be a great way to spend time with your loved ones in the backyard. When the sun goes down, there is absolutely no reason why the party has to stop. Rather, it’s an opportunity to turn things up with an outdoor Karaoke session.

To throw a successful outdoor session, ensure that you keep your guest list tight; try not to invite more than 10 attendees. If you are thinking about how you can host more people, consider making Karaoke night a weekly thing, that way you will be able to host a different group each time without overcrowding.

If you don’t have enough supplies, request your guests to kindly bring their own blankets or chairs. If there are outsiders that aren’t part of the household, ensure to layout your blankets in the appropriate six feet distance. And don’t forget the hand sanitizer.

You will also need some basic equipment such as a portable projector, a projector screen and some speakers. Make the space as comfortable as possible so that your guests can relax and have fun. Consider setting up some walkway lights or offer your guests inexpensive flashlights to prevent them from accidentally stepping on or tripping over each other.

3) Create a reading nook outdoors

You now have more time than ever to complete those unfinished DIY projects that you have always wanted to try. One of them should be creating an outdoor reading nook where you can retreat to in the quiet of the night or just before sunset to read a book or a magazine.

Don’t have access to a whole ton of books? No problem. Simply get yourself a Kindle and you can read anywhere, anytime. What’s so great about reading on Kindle is that you can read in your backyard without worrying about illumination. Kindles are also mostly waterproof and you can store all your favorite reads and podcasts without worrying about space.

4) Set up an outdoor movie party

Netflix and chilling is great and all, but sometimes you just need to shake things up, which is where an outdoor movie party comes in. With a few supplies and a simple, non-frilly setup, you can create an outdoor theater to beat all outdoor theaters in no time.

First and foremost, you will need to select an outdoor spot with access to electrical outlets. You can’t watch a movie without power, now can you? Also, make sure that the location that you select is quite and where headlights, house lights from nearby houses, or street lights will not make viewing hard.

You also need a retractable projector screen. However, if you cannot afford to buy one straight away, there are plenty of DIY options to try. You will also need a projector, as well as surround sound (regular computer speakers will also work just as fine). Set everything up, grab some popcorn, an outdoor blanket, warm drinks and you’ll be good to go.

Final Thoughts

You may not have as many options as you once did to eat, drink, and get out into the world as you once did pre-quarantine. However, there are still plenty of things that you can try to keep yourself entertained.

Like most people that have been forced to self-isolate or quarantine owing to the coronavirus pandemic, the best thing that you can do is look for alternative ways to make the best of your situation. If you look around, you’ll find that you can do a lot more with the little that you have and still be able to stay safe and sane.

The good news for you is that these tips that we’ve listed above will definitely keep you occupied until the next time you will be able to go out dancing, catch a movie, check out a new restaurant or simply just hug the friends that you miss.

Relations take work whether you have been together for 6 months or multiple decades. This could be working on communication or talking about some less than pleasant issues that need to be confronted. There could even be a chance that you are spending too much time together especially with social distancing measures in place. Appreciation of your partner is going to be essential as everyone loves to feel valued in a romantic relationship. Below are a few tips to show your partner you appreciate them or just want to do something nice for them.

Cook Their Favorite Meal

Small things matter when it comes to showing that you appreciate your significant other. Flowers after work of a favorite meal prepared when they get home is important. Large gestures are sure to put a smile on the face of your partner while it is the little gestures that count. Taking time out of your busy day to cook a great meal that you can both enjoy can be a great way for you to reduce stress. Plenty of people view cooking as therapeutic as you can forget your problems and become immersed in prepping the food.

Gifts for Big Accomplishments

A promotion or certification that has taken a long time to achieve needs to be celebrated in a huge way. A promotion that your significant other has worked hard for deserves a gift. Looking into Raleigh jewelers or ones in your area can give you a better idea of what type of budget you should set aside. Booking a trip is far more difficult than it had been but this is a great option as well once the pandemic has subsided. Meaningful gifts can be from the heart but still be luxurious which is something to keep in mind.

Get a Couples Massage or Take a Spa Day

A couples massage or day at the spa together can provide that relaxation you both truly need. Spending a great day together can work wonders for your relationship as small things that were bothering you do not seem as important. Take the time to plan out which treatments you will get at the spa. You might be surprised what a day of relaxation will do for you personally and your partner.

Order in Their Favorite Restaurant by Surprise

More restaurants than ever before are offering takeout or delivery. Having a meal delivered from your partner’s favorite restaurant can be that pick me up they need during a tough week at work. Life has changed due to the pandemic and has reduced the number of things you can do together as a couple. Supporting local businesses during this time is also important as you do not want your favorite restaurant to go out of business.

Showing your significant other how much you mean to them with your actions is important. You do not have to go over the top constantly but make a point of doing something incredibly nice a few times a week.

Camping is one of the best outdoor activities to partake in during the summer months. Yes, some hardcore adventurers will still camp in the winter months, but summer is an opportunity for anybody to give the activity a go. Whether it’s a fun vacation in a family-orientated campsite, a group of young people investing in a camper rental in Iceland, or a group of friends going on a multi-day hike, camping is an activity that so many people take part in once summer hits.

There are generally three types of camping: backpacking, tent camping, and RVing. While they all share some tips to beat the summer heat, each one comes with its own special considerations, as well.

General Summer Camping Tips

• Pack only light-colored clothing

There’s no way around this law of nature: Solar radiation soaks into dark-colored surfaces and reflects off light-colored surfaces. Don’t try to fight it. Instead, work with it by packing only light-colored clothes on summer camping trips. These will keep you much cooler during the day. Also, choose fabrics that breathe and release heat, such as cotton and linen. If you are wearing short sleeves or shorts, make sure to apply plenty of sunscreen.

• Drink lots of water

Hydration is the most crucial part of staying cool, safe, and healthy on camping trips. Water has a high specific heat value, which means it takes a lot of energy to change the temperature of the water. Since your body is made of about 60 percent water, keeping it properly hydrated is one of the best weapons against overheating.

• Avoid Sunburn

Pick an SPF (30+) with avobenzone, zinc oxide, or titanium dioxide. These will block both UV-A and UV-B rays. Reapply every two hours and after swimming or sweating madly. Sun-scorched? Wear a wide-brimmed hat.

• Use bug repellent

It’s summer, so you’re probably camping by the water. And that means bugs. The basis of anyone’s anti-bug arsenal needs to be a DEET-based bug spray. One problem DEET does have is that it can reduce the effectiveness of sunscreen by up to one-third. Try to apply your sunscreen at least 20 minutes before DEET to minimize its effect.

• Tarps are the ultimate multitool

The most-mentioned summer camping tip from park rangers was to pack tarps. A lot of them. Tarps aren’t just for keeping the rain off your tent or draping a picnic table; you can use tarps as sun protection, too. They keep the body from overheating and dehydrating.

Backpacking Tips

• Cots

If you buy nothing else, make it a mesh cot. Lifting your body off the ground allows air to circulate all around you. 

• Bring a satellite GPS messenger

A leisurely hike can turn dangerous quickly if you run out of water or lose your way. Every year, thousands of adventurists go missing. Some never return. GPS messengers let you share GPS coordinates, track your adventures, reach emergency responders, and check-in with family or friends — all from the push of a button.

• Campground fans are pretty great

We’ve all been there – it’s 2 a.m., the sleeping bag is far too warm, and there’s no way you’re getting back to sleep without a couple of ice packs. An easier solution? Bring a battery-powered fan that either hooks on to your tent or that you can position at your campsite. You’ll thank yourself in the long run.

Tent Camping Tips

• Set up your tent in the shade

If you can find a camping spot in the shade, take it. Letting trees absorb the sunlight, instead of your tent, will go a long way in keeping you cool. If the trees you are parked under provide ample shade from the sun at all angles you may be able to leave your tent up during the day.

• Choose a tent with lots of mesh

The fine mesh walls of a tent offer protection from biting insects, while also allowing a breeze to pass through, thus providing the best of both worlds. If you will be camping in the summer, it is advantageous to choose a tent with as much mesh as possible. 

• Make use of the breeze

The wind is nature’s air conditioning. Even if there is not a significant breeze, making use of it is a critical move in staying cool during summer camping. When you figure out which direction the wind will be blowing, face your tent door into the wind.

RV Camping Tips

• Service Your AC Before You Hit the Road

The air conditioner in your RV will help you beat the summer heat and also the humidity. Before you start it all, you have to make sure that you have had your cooling system serviced and inspected. You should have the filter replaced and inspect the unit for any signs of damage. 

• Do Not Cook During Peak Times

You may love having a fully functional kitchen, but do not use appliances in the kitchen that can heat up the space. Your range and stove will become interior heat sources, and it is best to avoid using these heat sources until nighttime. Opt to use a microwave or to cook over a fire or a grill instead to stay cool.

• Make a Checklist

As stated in Everything You Need to Know About RV Camping, make a checklist. There a lot more things to remember to check and do with an RV than a tent or backpack. “With every RV comes a list of precautions and steps to take before you are ready to hit the road. Forgetting even the smallest of tasks can put you, your RV, and others on the road with you in danger.”

Beating the heat is all about buying the right accessories, packing the right clothing, the right food, and being strategic with your activities during your trip. Create memories and stay cool in the process during this summer’s RV camping trip. Enjoy your time lounging in your RV and being active outdoors and keep these tips in mind before you hit the road. Stay hydrated, stay covered, and alternate your time indoors and outdoors during the peak heat of the day.

Increasingly, today’s seniors are choosing to continue living in their own homes or communities and enjoying more active lifestyles than ever before. Medical alert systems offer immediate access to assistance in the event of falls or other medical emergencies, and they’re quickly gaining popularity with independent seniors and their loved ones, thanks to the enhanced safety and peace of mind they provide.

The wide array of medical alert systems on the market can make choosing one a confusing and overwhelming task. To compare the available systems accurately and make an informed choice as to which one is best for you, it’s important to know how medical alert systems work.

Although each provider offers its own range of devices, features, options and service plans, medical alert systems all work towards the same goal — to get help where it’s needed fast. Seniors press a button to contact their medical alert provider’s call center, where trained operators are available 24/7 to respond and send immediate assistance. While this simple explanation tells you what medical alert systems do, it doesn’t tell you much about the various components that interact seamlessly to connect seniors with support.

How do medical alert systems work? The process is simple:

1. A person experiences an emergency.
2. He or she pushes the help button on the pendant (worn at all times, even in the shower).
3. An operator answers the call (through the base unit or mobile device) and asks if the person needs help.
4. The operator assesses the situation and contacts local emergency responders, emergency contacts and family.
5. The operator stays on the line until help arrives.
6. If immediate medical attention is not required, the user can ask the operator to contact a family member, caretaker or emergency contact, such as a neighbor.  
7. If the operator can’t hear the user, he or she will assume the user is unconscious or unable to respond and will contact local emergency responders.

Consider the following facts from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention:

• More than 1 in 4 people over 65 will suffer a fall.
• 2.8 million seniors are treated for fall injuries each year.
• 1 in 5 falls results in broken bones or a traumatic head injury.
• Over 95 percent of hip fractures are caused by falls.

With those statistics in mind, you should think of a medical alert system as a safety net. Medical emergencies rarely occur in convenient locations near phones or people. Medical alert systems simply extend the range of convenience, allowing you to call for help regardless of where the emergency occurs.

In turn, this safety net can help seniors live independently or “age in place.” According to AARP, 87 percent of seniors want to stay in their homes as long as possible. Independence is one of the most important factors in a senior’s quality of life, and a medical alert system facilitates this by providing the peace of mind to both adult children and seniors.

All medical alerts come with a help button, but there are often optional features and add-ons you can add to your system for increased safety and convenience. Some of these options include:

Fall Detection

Some devices offer automatic fall detection as an additional service. While it can’t prevent a fall, a medical alert system with fall detection can summon help automatically when you can’t press the button. This is an essential feature for many users and caregivers.

Location Tracking

If you or your loved one is active and likes to go for walks or take trips to the store, having a medical alert with GPS tracking is indispensable. Some systems even let caregivers check to see where the user is in real-time on demand. This provides peace of mind knowing that they can easily be located if there is an emergency.

Many studies over the years have shown a link between social isolation and loneliness and an increase in mortality rates. This is particularly true when it comes to loneliness in the elderly, with AARP claiming a 26 percent increased risk of death due to subjective feelings of loneliness. With 51 percent of the senior population aged 75 and older living alone, loneliness and social isolation are serious concerns.

Loneliness in seniors can bring about a 29% increase in heart disease risk, a 32% increase in stroke risk, a 20% increase in cognitive decline risk over a 12-year period, and a 45% increase in mortality rates. Isolation among seniors is extremely common, especially for those who live at home rather than a senior living community. Even though this loneliness happens easily for seniors, there are many ways to reduce it or prevent it from happening altogether according to LifeStation.

Medical alert systems are beginning to offer help with the issue of isolation and loneliness as well as safety. As one blog post notes, “Today’s medical alert providers are aware of this issue and are increasingly offering services aimed to address the challenge. …[A] weekly well check that provides proactive calls that provide a friendly voice, conduct a critical needs assessment, and deliver resources to stay safe and healthy while improving physical and emotional well-being.” Other services include a concierge type service that, “facilitates contact to an expanded call list that includes meal delivery, pharmacy, and transportation resources – all from the same medical alert equipment used in an emergency.”

Social isolation and loneliness are public health issues that affect more than one-third of adults, with seniors most at risk for depression, substance abuse, and suicide triggered by feelings of isolation. Health risks associated with loneliness and social isolation are comparable to the dangers of smoking and obesity, increasing mortality risk by up to 30%. Given the links between loneliness and health status, there is a need for increased awareness among both the public and healthcare providers that loneliness is a condition that, like chronic pain, can afflict almost anyone

The challenge of social isolation and loneliness among seniors is only going to increase as more people retire. The elderly population in the U.S. in growing every year as Baby Boomers age. By using existing and advancing medical alert technology, both physical and mental health can be protected.

The process of purchasing a home can be extremely stressful. Lenders are going to go through your finances and pull credit reports. Buying a home with your spouse tends to be a bit easier if they have consistent income and a decent credit score. The renovation of a first home purchased together is quite popular as a couple might not have the budget for a turnkey home. Managing this as a couple can be very tough as many couples start their lives out together in debt due to the wedding. The following are tips to manage the purchase and renovation of the home as newlyweds.

Create a Checklist of Features You Need in a Home

Couples are going to disagree about certain features no matter how similar their tastes in homes are. There could be a desire for a pool by one spouse while the other doesn’t want the upkeep and costs a pool create to keep it maintained appropriately. There are going to be compromises and this is a part of any marriage so keep this in mind. You might think one home is great only to find out major features that you both wanted are missing. This will help narrow down the home search which is essential in areas with thousands of homes for sale.

Once You Have Purchased Select Contractors Carefully

Once you have purchased a home that needs some work you need to start picking contractors out for each project that you want complete. Contractors differ in quality and price so keep this in mind. You want to get multiple estimates for the same project as even with the same materials these can differ drastically. You want to make sure that the contractor is licensed and insured in order to limit your personal liability. Take a look at online reviews and pictures of previous projects in order to see the quality of work.

Refinishing Certain Areas

Gutting an entire home only to put in new flooring, sinks, and everything in between will be expensive. There could be a few areas of the home that do not need a renovation but rather some attention. Looking into bathtub refinishing can be wise as the rest of the bathroom can also be refinished. This doesn’t require a plumber which can cost a premium amount hourly unlike a complete bathroom renovation. Floors and counters can also be refinished to give that area of the home a newer look.

Understand Disagreements will Happen

You want to avoid putting yourselves in a terrible financial situation by renovating the home but then lacking funds to pay the mortgage or keep up your current quality of life. Disagreements are going to happen but these tend to happen far more often when there are financial problems. Consider taking on one major project at a time so they can be budgeted and saved for. You do not want to put these on a credit card as this can lead to the renovations costing far more over the course of time.  

The feeling of finishing the renovations on your first home together is one that you both will never forget. Take the time to get started creating your home purchase checklist today!

Just like fiber is an important component of the human diet, it is also important for dogs. When added to a dog’s diet, fiber can produce benefits by aiding with digestion, helping manage weight and keeping blood sugar levels under control.

If you feel your dog isn’t getting enough fiber, you may be wondering, how can I add more fiber to my dog’s diet? Well, read on to find out.

How Can I Add More Fiber to My Dog’s Diet?

The best way to get fiber in your dog’s diet is by giving them the right foods. Not only do you want to give them food that’s high in fiber, you want to make sure your dog is getting fiber from high quality ingredients and not unhealthy fillers. For instance, many dog foods contain 5% crude fiber, which really is not adequate for a healthy dog.

When considering fiber sources for your dog, whole fruits and vegetables are the best option. Here are some things you can add to your dog’s food to make sure he or she is getting enough of these ingredients.

• Canned Pumpkin Pulp: Small dogs will need 1 tbsp. per feeding while larger dog’s will need ¼ cup.
• Steamed Green Vegetables: Prepare a handful and add it to your dog’s meal for the ultimate in digestive health.
• Sweet Potatoes: Mash up some sweet potatoes and add 1-3 tbsp. to your dog’s meal.
• Whole Grain: Bran flakes, cooked oats or millet are some examples of whole grains that can be added to your dog’s meal. Drop in a spoonful to increase fiber content.
• OTC Fiber Additives: Metamucil and other OTC fiber additives can also be effective for improving your dog’s digestion. Add ½ tsp. for small dogs or 2 tbsp. for larger dogs. Add water to blend.

Other Digestive Supplements for Dogs

Fiber is a great way to improve your dog’s health and encourage regular bowel movements. However, there are other supplements that can also be beneficial.

Vital Planet is a company that specializes in all natural pet supplements. They make a variety of products that can improve your dog’s digestive health. These include the following.

Firm Stool for Dogs Powder: This powder has 10 strains of probiotics that support normal GI health and function. It provides a firm stool to prevent occasional diarrhea making for an easy clean up. It is non-GMO, gluten free and contains no artificial ingredients.

Digest Dog Daily Enzyme Powder: This enzyme blend supports the digestion of protein, fat and carbohydrates. Its powder form makes it easy to sprinkle on your dog’s food. It is grain, gluten and soy free, non-GMO and it has a beef flavor your dog will love.

If you are wondering, how can I add more fiber to my dog’s diet, adding the grains and vegetables listed above should help improve your furry friend’s digestive health significantly. What do you like to give your dog to keep him healthy and regular?