Seven Easy Ways to Tell If Your Deck Needs Help Now

Aging deck structures, harsh storms, high temperatures and a lack of routine maintenance due to limited financial resources in a difficult economy are all factors that can put homeowners with decks at serious risk of injury for themselves, their families and guests.

There are more than 40 million decks in the United States that are more than 20 years or older, according to the North American Deck & Railing Association (NADRA) and hundreds of reported deck accidents occur annually. The experts at Archadeck (www.archadeck.com) the nation's largest outdoor living company, recommend checking the structural integrity of decks each spring and fall to ensure safety, especially for decks that are more than 10 years old.

The help homeowners determine if their deck is safe, Archadeck is sharing seven deck safety inspection guidelines with the acronym of "BE SAFER":

• Boards: Check deck boards for rot, softness or major cracking.

• Every Connection: Inspect every hardware connection on the deck. Look for screws and/or nails backing out, red rust and other signs of corrosion on metal connectors that can weaken the integrity of the deck.

• Structure: Look at the posts, beams and joists that provide the structural framework of the deck. Is there any noticeable sagging between supports?

• Attachments: Most deck failures occur at the attachment site to the home. Ensure that the deck is properly attached to the house with bolts and proper flashing for water protection. NEVER use nails!

• Foundation/Footings: The foundation and footings support the weight, or load, on a deck and the columns that bear on them. Look for sinking or a noticeable sag.

• Exits: Check deck's exit areas, usually stairs. Are the stair stringers, treads and risers ok? Do the stairs require a handrail? Is there adequate lighting to safely use the exits at night?

• Rails: Look at rail posts and railing sections to make sure that they aren't loose or wobbly. All pickets/balusters should be fastened securely and spaced no more than four inches apart.

PR Newswire (http://s.tt/1lzaW)

Weather Experts Target Western N.C. as Best Bet for Fall Colors

With atypical weather crisscrossing the U.S. landscape this spring and summer, climate scientists are targeting Western North Carolina as a best bet for colorful fall foliage. Despite a far-reaching national heat wave, weather experts predict that well-nourished trees resulting from beneficial wet weather patterns may position Asheville and the Blue Ridge Mountains as a bright light among 2012 fall foliage destinations.

Leaf peepers looking to optimize their autumn vacation should keep their eyes on the sky, as weather will be a defining factor of the 2012 fall season.

Healthy Trees

"While much of the country continues to suffer through drought, including parts of the Northeast, …Western N.C. has enjoyed plentiful rainfall this year (but not too much!), setting us up for what should be a great fall color season," said Pamela McCown, coordinator for the A-B Tech Institute for Climate Education.

"The ridge of high pressure that plagued much of the central U.S. … produced conditions here in Western N.C. that led to almost daily afternoon showers and thunderstorms. As a result, the trees are not stressed from lack of rain and should be ready to put on a beautiful display," McCown said.

Escaping Drought

"In terms of temperature, Western N.C. has experienced warmer-than-average conditions this summer, along with the rest of the nation," said Jake Crouch, climate scientist at NOAA's National Climatic Data Center in Asheville. "However, above-average rainfall has kept us out of the drought that is impacting nearly two-thirds of the contiguous United States. Conditions are favorable for healthy trees and, thus, a vibrant palette of fall colors, but the weeks ahead will be the deciding factor.

"Other areas known for fall color, such as New England and the Great Lakes, have been dry this year with drought impacting a large percentage of the region. The hot and dry summer will have placed stress on the trees and could potentially dull the color display," Crouch said.

Weather Key in 2012

"Optimal fall colors come from a combination of conditions that must occur is the right order," McCown said. "The good news is that one of the key conditions is already in place because we've had a good growing year… The next key step will be related to the temperatures as we move into late summer and early fall. Cool, crisp temperatures at night and sunny, warm days without significant rain or early freezes in late September and early October are important for the development of vibrant color."

Promising fall color predictions for the 2012 foliage season are good news for travelers. Color seekers should consider planning ahead to make the most of the busy autumn travel season.

FALL TRAVEL TIPS:

Avoid the Red, Yellow & Gold Rush. Want tickets to the big fall color show? Accommodations fill up quickly during the popular fall travel season. Book early to avoid the rush. FallintheMountains.com and the Asheville Concierge can guide you to a suite with a view, a mountain cabin or a cozy B&B that fits your budget.

Worried about Missing the Color Peak? Travelers are surprised to learn that there isn't one specific week to see peak fall colors. The North Carolina Mountains are unique. Extreme elevation variations and more than 100 species of leaf-shedding trees offer the longest and most colorful foliage season in the nation. From late September into early November, travelers can easily locate sweeping views of fall colors, especially if they follow expert advice.

Follow the Weekly Color Reports. To help visitors locate where the autumn color is peaking from week-to-week, the Asheville Convention & Visitors Bureau is working with park officials, biologists, climate experts and attractions around the region to compile weekly fall foliage reports for the North Carolina mountains at FallintheMountains.com. Asheville's fall color experts will also be tweeting up-to-the-minute color updates, travel tips and travel deals at @FallColorHunter on Twitter.

About

Located along the Blue Ridge Parkway and just outside Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the Asheville area is steeped in natural history and full of fall adventure. With elevations that range from 1,500 feet in the valleys to 6,684 feet at Mount Mitchell (the highest peak east of the Mississippi River), the Blue Ridge Mountains are a kaleidoscope of colorful fall foliage from late September through early November. FallintheMountains.com

Online Resources

FallintheMountains.com – Insider tips, fall travel deals, events, autumn adventures and updates on the progress of the foliage season
Weekly Fall Color Report – Expert advice to help leaf peepers find the best color from week-to-week throughout the season, starting September 13
Asheville Concierge's "Fall Deal of the Day" – Book directly, get advice on hotel availability and deals
Scenic Drives, Rides and Hikes – Best fall color tours tailored for early, mid and late fall
Up-to-the-Minute Color Updates – Fall tips via Facebook & @FallColorHunter on Twitter

Fall Events

• Salute to F. Scott Fitzgerald Weekend | The Grove Park Inn | Sept. 21-23
• Flock to the Rock | Chimney Rock at Chimney Rock State Park | Sept. 29-30
• Oktoberfest | Downtown Asheville | Oct. 13
• A Moveable Feast | Biltmore | Oct. 13
• The Craft Fair of the Southern Highlands | US Cellular Center | Oct. 18-21
• Moogfest | Downtown Asheville | Oct. 26-27
• River Arts District Studio Stroll | River Arts District | Nov. 10-11
• More fall 2012 events

PR Newswire (http://s.tt/1lsn6)

More Back to School Factoids

 It may seem like it's still summer — it's hot and many people are on vacation. But one of the nation's largest seasonal events is already under way. It's back to school time. From nursery school to college, 77 million students are headed to the classroom — that's more than one-out-of-four of the total U.S. population aged 3 and over. Of the 56 million elementary and high school students enrolled this fall, 11 percent will attend private schools. There are almost 99,000 public schools across the nation, along with nearly 34,000 private schools. Getting ready for school this month means buying a lot of new clothes — nearly $7.5 billion worth.

Source: US Census Bureau

Strategies for After School Snacks

As children across the country head back to the classroom, parents will likely hear a familiar refrain each afternoon: "I'm hungry."

It is officially after-school snacking season! With research from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill indicating that children consume a quarter of their daily calories from snacks, it's important to make sure that after-school goodies are truly good for them, too.

"Think of your child's afternoon school snack as his or her fourth meal," says Christine M. Palumbo, registered dietitian, mom and a nutrition advisor for California Raisins. "As a mini-meal, healthy after-school snacks can provide needed energy to sustain grumbling tummies until dinnertime."

For easy and healthy snacking ideas, Palumbo shares the following five tips:

• Pack your own. At the beginning of the week, assemble nibbles such as whole grain crackers, unsalted nuts and no-added sugar dried fruit into small containers or bags. You'll save time and money by preparing these easily accessible snacks in advance.

• Focus on fruits and veggies. Create tasty grab bags by mixing raisins with cherry tomatoes, baby carrots, grapes, sugar snap peas or celery sticks.

• Make an inside-out sandwich. Spread low-fat cream cheese on a slice of deli turkey and wrap it around a sesame breadstick.

• Subtract the sugar. Rather than fruited yogurt, which can contain more than 20 grams of sugar (5 teaspoons) per six-ounce container, take plain Greek yogurt and top with chopped walnuts, a light drizzle of honey and a sprinkle of naturally sweetCalifornia raisins.

• Involve the kids! If the kids make their own healthy snacks, chances are they'll be more likely to eat them, too! For a fun snack activity, try these California Raisin Peanut Butter Roll Ups: grab a tortilla, spread a light layer of peanut butter, dot withCalifornia raisins and fold into a roll. 

Palumbo adds that after-school snacks are a great opportunity to increase consumption of fruits and vegetables to help children meet their daily nutrient needs.

"Instead of highly processed snack foods, consider offering your child a half sandwich on whole- grain bread, along with some dried fruit," says Palumbo. "For example, adding California raisins to your child's diet will deliver nutrients such as potassium and antioxidants along with fiber."

Earlier this year research from the University of Toronto revealed that snacking on raisins may help control hunger in children, an added benefit for weeknight evenings when dinner is delayed due to soccer practice, band rehearsal or other after-school activities. The study showed that among children, eating raisins as an after-school snack prevents excessive calorie intake and increases satiety – or feeling of fullness – as compared to other commonly consumed snacks.

California raisins are all-natural, fat- and cholesterol-free and are ranked number one as the most economical dried fruit by the USDA, making them a delicious snack addition. For more snack ideas visit www.LoveYourRaisins.com.  

PR Newswire (http://s.tt/1lr1C)

Fun Facts for Back to School

By August, summertime will be winding down and vacations will be coming to an end, signaling that back-to-school time is near. It's a time that many children eagerly anticipate — catching up with old friends and making new ones, and settling into a new daily routine. Parents and children alike scan the newspapers and websites looking for sales to shop for a multitude of school supplies and the latest clothing fads and essentials. This edition of Facts for Features highlights the many statistics associated with the return to classrooms by our nation's students and teachers.

Back-to-School Shopping

$7.7 billion 
The amount of money spent at family clothing stores in August 2011. Only in November and December were sales higher. Similarly, sales at book stores in August 2011 totaled $2.4 billion, the strongest sales month of the year.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, Monthly Retail Trade and Food Services http://www.census.gov/mrts/www/mrts.html

For back-to-school shopping, choices of retail establishments abound: In 2009, there were 28,520 family clothing stores, 7,092 children and infants clothing stores, 26,651 shoe stores, 8,945 office supply and stationery stores, 21,628 sporting goods stores, 9,390 bookstores and 8,663 department stores.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, County Business Patterns: 2009
http://www.census.gov/econ/cbp/index.html

Students

79 millionThe number of children and adults enrolled in school throughout the country in October 2010 — from nursery school to college. They comprised 27 percent of the entire population age 3 and older.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, School Enrollment – Social and Economic Characteristics of Students: October 2010, Table 1
http://www.census.gov/hhes/school/data/cps/2010/tables.html

Pre-K through 12 Enrollment

72%
Percentage of children 3 to 6 enrolled in kindergarten who attended all day, as of October 2010.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, School Enrollment – Social and Economic Characteristics of Students: October 2010, Table 3
http://www.census.gov/hhes/school/data/cps/2010/tables.html

24%
Percentage of elementary through high school students who had at least one foreign-born parent in October 2010.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, School Enrollment – Social and Economic

Characteristics of Students: October 2010, Table 1 http://www.census.gov/hhes/school/data/cps/2010/tables.html

27%
Percentage of students ages 12 to 17 who were in a gifted class in 2009.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, A Child's Day: 2009 (Selected Indicators of Child Well-Being), Table D18 http://www.census.gov/newsroom/releases/archives/children/cb09-182.html

70%
Percentage of 6- to 17-year-olds who were highly engaged in school (children reported as liking school, being interested in school and working hard in school) in 2009.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, A Child's Day: 2009 (Selected Indicators of Child Well-Being); Table D27 http://www.census.gov/hhes/socdemo/children/data/sipp/well2009/tables.html

Languages

11.8 million
Number of school-age children (5 to 17) who spoke a language other than English at home in 2010; 8.5 million of these children spoke Spanish at home.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2010 American Community Survey
http://factfinder2.census.gov/bkmk/table/1.0/en/ACS/10_1YR/B16004

Colleges

16%
Percentage of all college students 35 and older in October 2010. They made up 34 percent of those attending school part time.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, School Enrollment – Social and Economic Characteristics of Students: October 2010, Table 5
http://www.census.gov/hhes/school/data/cps/2010/tables.html

41%
Percentage of 18- to 24-year-olds enrolled in college in 2010.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, School Enrollment – Social and Economic Characteristics of Students: October 2010, Table 1
http://www.census.gov/hhes/school/data/cps/2010/tables.html

56%
Percent of college students who were women in 2010 (includes both undergraduate and graduate students).
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, School Enrollment – Social and Economic Characteristics of Students: October 2010, Table 1
http://www.census.gov/hhes/school/data/cps/2010/tables.html  

Rewards of Staying in School

$74,000
Median earnings of full-time, year-round workers with an advanced degree in 2009.  Workers whose highest degree was a bachelor's had median earnings of $56,000.  Median earnings for full-time, year-round workers with a high school diploma was$33,000, while workers with less than high school diploma had $25,000 median earnings.
Source: Educational Attainment in the United States: 2009
http://www.census.gov/prod/2012pubs/p20-566.pdf

Hey Guys, Wanna Make Babies? Eat Walnuts!

I was researching walnut recipes and I came across this: Walnuts improve sperm health. Really? Well that's what this news release says!

Research published in the recent issue of Biology of Reproduction Papers-in-Press reports that 75 grams (approximately 2.5 ounces) of walnuts consumed per day improved sperm vitality, motility, and morphology (normal forms) in a group of healthy young men between 21-35 years of age.  These findings are of particular interest to the 70 million couples worldwide who experience sub-fertility or infertility.  In fact, 30 – 50% of these cases are attributed to the male partner, and in the United States the prevalence of men seeking help for fertility is estimated at ~3.3 – 4.7 million[1].

This research suggests that walnuts provide key nutrients that may be essential in male reproductive health.  According to Professor Wendie Robbins, Ph.D., R.N., F.A.A.N., who led the research at the University of California, Los Angeles, School of Nursing, "the positive finding of walnuts on sperm may be a result of their unique nutrient profile." Walnuts are the only nut that are an excellent source of alpha-linolenic acid[2] (ALA) – the plant-based omega-3 fatty acid, and this study reported higher amounts of ALA provided by walnuts correlated with less frequent aneuploidy or abnormal cell sperm chromosome numbers which can result in genetic abnormalities such as Down syndrome.

In addition to ALA, walnuts have high antioxidant content, along with numerous micronutrients that Dr. Robbins thinks may work together synergistically. Co-investigator and UCLA Associate Professor of Medicine and Nursing Dr. Catherine Carpenterbelieves that  "these findings are not surprising when you look at the nutritious content of walnuts, however the results are amazing considering the impact they might have on men of all ages, including older men, and men with impaired fertility."

Throughout history, food has been linked with human reproductive success; however most of the emphasis has been on the maternal diet and very little focus has been given to the paternal diet.  According to Dr. Robbins, science is suggesting that a father's diet not only impacts fertility, but can also influence the health of the child and future generations.  Citing a review of the science in this area, Dr. Robbins commented that, "diet is not just maternal territory anymore."[3]  It appears the nutrition status of fathers can be passed down transgenerationally and affect the health of generations to come.  "Healthy diet and nutrition are essential for reproductive health," commented registered dietitian and father Milton Stokes.  Based on this research, he would advise his male clients trying to have children to include walnuts in their diet on a daily basis to promote healthy offspring.

Improvements in cardiovascular risk factors and endothelial function from walnuts are well documented.  The young men eating walnuts in the study conducted by Dr. Robbins experienced improved blood lipid profiles which reinforces these previous studies and provides one more reason to include walnuts in the daily diet.  

This randomized, parallel two-group dietary intervention trial evaluated the effect of 75 grams of walnuts/day on semen quality.  The study included 117 healthy young men who routinely eat a Western-style diet.  Approximately half consumed the 75 grams of walnuts per day for 12 weeks, while the remaining half served as the control group. After 12 weeks, compared to the control group, the walnut group experienced improvement in sperm vitality, motility, and morphology – key components in male fertility.  

PR Newswire (http://s.tt/1l1co) 

Well, OK then. I'm passing on the walnuts, but here's the recipes used in the study. 

Walnut Coated Smart "Fried" Chicken 

Spicy Walnut Bean Dip 

Mac & Cheese Makeover 

Honey-Chili Spiced Walnuts 

Brilliant Chili Topped with Walnuts 

Awesome Banana Walnut Shake 

Tropical Walnut Smoothie 

Smart Spaghetti & Meatballs with Tomato Sauce

Wonder if I can use pecans instead? 

1] Anderson JE, Farr SL, Jamieson DJ, Warner L, Machaluso M. Infertility services reported by men in the United States: national survey data. Fertil Steril. 2009;91:2466-2470.

[2] Please note: One ounce of walnuts provides 18g of total fat, 2.5g of monounsaturated fat, 13 g of polyunsaturated fat, including 2.5 grams of alpha linolenic acid - the plant based omega-3; 2g of fiber; 4g of protein, 3.68 mmol/28 g of antioxidants. (http://www.nal.usda.gov/fnic/foodcomp/cgi-bin/list_nut_edit.pl)

[3] Nair KS, Irving BA, Lanza IR. Can dietary nitrates enhance the efficiency of mitochondria? Cell Metab. 2011 Feb 2;13(2):117-8.

Fall Potato Recipes from the U.S. Potato Board

Back-to-school season is in full swing, which means families everywhere are back to juggling carpools, soccer practice, dance lessons and packed lunches, among many other activities. That’s why the United States Potato Board (USPB) has partnered with Susan Schuman of the award-winning food blog Our Family Eats to create two new family-friendly potato recipes that will make getting a nutritious meal on the dinner table a breeze this back-to-school season.

Schuman also will host a live chat on the USPB’s Potatoes, Taters and Spuds Facebook page on Aug. 29 at Noon PDT (2 p.m. CDT). Schuman will answer questions about her potato recipes, share tips for cooking for a family and discuss how she finds the time to create healthy meals while balancing her family and job. To join the chat, “like” the Potatoes, Taters & Spuds Facebook page and begin posting your questions and comments on the page wall at Noon PDT on Aug. 29. Click here to RSVP.

The USPB also launched a “Real Meals: Pin to Win!” Pinterest contest on the Potato Goodness Pinterest page. The contest invites fans to create a “Real Meals” pin board featuring potato recipe images for the opportunity to win a deluxe slow cooker and SpaFinder.com gift card. Click here for all the details.

The base of America’s favorite side dish is packed with nutritional value. A single, skin-on medium-sized (5.3 ounce) potato has just 110 calories, more potassium than a banana and almost half your daily value of vitamin C (45 percent) and zero fat, sodium or cholesterol.

Visit www.potatogoodness.com for more healthy and creative potato recipes. 

Via PRNewswire

Home Canning Is Season's Hottest Food Trend; Consumers Preserve The Fresh Flavors Of Summer In Growing Numbers

I've used Ball Jars for lots of things, not just canning. Check out Ball's website for some great jam recipes! 

Home canning is this summer's hottest food trend with Jarden Home Brands, makers of Ball® brand fresh preserving products, reporting a 31 percent year over year* sales revenue increase in Ball® Brand glass canning jars, year to date.

"With a growing interest in eating fresh and local foods, it's no surprise consumers are turning to home canning to preserve the summer's delicious fruits and vegetables," said Steve Hungsberg, Sr. Brand Manager of Marketing for Ball® brand fresh preserving products. "Home canning allows consumers to capture the summer's best produce at peak season and preserve it to enjoy year-round."

Younger canners are fueling the trend as innovation and social media are making it easier than ever for new canners to get started. In fact, over 60 percent of the nearly 50,000-strong Ball® Canning and Recipes Facebook community (www.Facebook.com/BallCanning) are under the age of 44. The page connects new canners with seasoned pros who share canning knowledge, tips and recipes.

This spring, Jarden Home Brands released the Ball® FreshTECH Automatic Jam and Jelly Maker, an innovative appliance that lets consumers create fresh jams and jellies in under 30 minutes. At www.FreshPreserving.com, where web traffic is up 22 percent year over year to date**, consumers can find hundreds of recipes to preserve the summer's best tomatoes, cucumbers, berries and more.

"It's been a strong sales season for us as so many new consumers embrace home canning as they learn to preserve the best seasonal produce," continued Hungsberg. "We're passionate about teaching consumers how simple yet fun and rewarding home canning, freezing and fresh preparation can be."

Beyond fresh preserving, the stylish Ball® brand glass canning jar is setting the table for summer parties nationwide. From weddings to garden parties, consumers are discovering inventive uses for the iconic Ball® brand glass mason jar while entertaining. The Ball® Fresh Preserving Pinterest page (http://pinterest.com/ballcanning/) showcases some of the best summer canning decor as well as recipes, tips and more.

For additional information about Ball® brand fresh preserving products, visit www.FreshPreserving.com.

PR Newswire (http://s.tt/1lr1V)

Taking Care Of Your Mattress

Often overlooked, taking care of your mattress and box spring will help to ensure lasting comfort and an optimal return on your mattress investment.

Follow these tips for mattress care.

1. Flip and Rotate: This is no old wives tale. It's important that a mattress be flipped and rotated at regular intervals throughout the year. McRoskey Mattress Company recommends flipping a mattress in the winter and summer (head end to foot end) and rotating it in spring and fall. A box spring requires once-a-year rotation.

2. Protect Your Mattress: Use mattress protector pads to keep your mattress clean, dry and free from stains. Introducing any liquid into the mattress can mat the filling materials inside, causing a depression, and possibly rusting the springs. Use either an all-cotton mattress protector pad alone or in combination with a waterproof mattress protector for maximum protection.

3. Cleaning Spills and Stains. As noted, the first defense against spills (and stains) is to use a mattress protector pad. If you didn't use a mattress protector pad follow these steps to clean a spill.

For liquid spills that soak into a mattress or box spring, use towels to blot. Apply gentle pressure to absorb the liquid. Do not press the liquid into the mattress.

Cleaning Stains: Use a mild soap with damp cloth, cold water solution or a spray carpet cleaner.

Let the mattress or box spring dry completely before dressing the bed.

4. Use Proper Support: Use a bedframe with rigid center support that supports the head, foot, sides and center of the mattress and box spring. If using bed slats with a mattress and box spring, use at least three rigid, no-sag slats.

5. Stay Ahead of Mildew: Be sure your mattress and box spring have good air circulation around and under the bed. Air the mattress and brush or vacuum the top when possible.

PR Newswire (http://s.tt/1lEfD)

Chocolate Paradise

Earlier this year, my husband and I embarked on a low carb diet. Well more like a low simple sugar diet as I can’t completely give up veggies – or chocolate.

On one of my treks to the Georgia’s Farmers Market in Plano, I was accosted by a woman promising me a sweet chocolate delight that wouldn’t send my blood sugar into a tailspin. I was skeptical. Good-for-you, sugarless chocolate has a nasty, chemical after taste. But I was feeling adventurous, so I took her sample. Chocolate Paradise it was called and Chocolate Paradise it is!

Thick and creamy, the first nibble was delicious. I waited for the aftertaste – but it didn’t come. Just delicious chocolate goodness. Suspiciously, I questioned the woman about the ingredients and she assured me that there was no corn syrup and the only sugar was in the vanilla extract. I could live with that.

At home, I’ve served the paste on top of ice cream and I’ve mixed it with peanut butter for to create a homemade chocolate peanut butter cup. John eats it straight from the jar.

At almost $14 a jar, it’s a little pricey, but if you need a healthy chocolate fix, this is the way to go. Unforunately, I haven’t been able to find a website for Bari’s Creations which makes Chocolate Paradise, but it’s always in stock at Georgia’s.

Tips on How Parents Can Prepare Their Child for the School Year

Taking time to talk with and listen to your child about the upcoming school year is one of the best ways parents can help their child transition to school life," says Robin Gurwitch, Ph.D., Division of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics of Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center.

Dr. Gurwitch advises that parents begin talking to their child about school a couple weeks before it starts, and that they listen closely for their child's fears or concerns. She explains that how parents talk to their child, as well as what they say are both important.

Dr. Gurwitch gives parents the following advice on how to help children of all ages prepare for the upcoming school year.

Preschoolers and kindergartners need to know what will happen

Parents should take their child to visit their school and let them play on the school's playground and meet their new teachers before school starts.

Parents can let their children watch educational cartoons to help prepare them for what they will learn at school.

Talk to your child about the new school year, new grade level and new teacher.
Prep for school success by working on disciplines at home such as listening to and following directions and sharing with others.

Take your child on at least one school shopping trip, and allow him to help choose a backpack, notebooks, and/or pencils needed for school.

To help ease the transition, parents may want to tuck some small reminders of home into their child's backpacks, such as photos of the family or parents.

Parents should establish routine bed and wake up times to prepare their child for their school schedule.
Maintain an encouraging attitude. Showing that you have confidence in your child will boost his or her confidence too.

Elementary school children will need to adjust to new beginnings

Parents should allow their child some freedom to buy something they want, such as trendy folders or pencils.
Take a quick trip to school before classes start to help locate lockers and classes. Schools often have orientation before the beginning of the year. Attending this shows your child you are interested in his success in the upcoming year.

Help your child stay on top of assignments by checking his agenda book nightly.
Set up specific homework/study times to help your child develop critical study skills that will be needed for years to come.

Talk to your child about high-risk behaviors. Middle school is the time when children may begin experimenting with drinking, drug use or sex. Waiting until they get to high school to talk to them may be too late.
Encourage your child's participation in at least one extracurricular activity or school club. And let him choose the activity. Children who are involved in such activities generally do better academically, have better social relationships, and are more confident, resilient, and happier. However, be careful not to overload your child's schedule with too many extra activities! This can have the opposite effect of decreased school grades, increased anxiety and depression.

Make an appointment with the school counselor right away if you have concerns about how your child is adjusting to school.

Teens need positive reinforcement

Parents should help their teen set goals on how to get the best grades.
Parents should help their teen become organized by buying a daily planner and teaching the child how to use it correctly.

Parents should encourage their teen to get involved in at least one extracurricular activity or sport because it will help them meet people. Studies suggest that when children feel connected to their school they have another reason to do better academically. (However, make sure that your child doesn't overload on extra activities.)

Parents should convey a sense of optimism regarding the child's success because it enhances a child's motivation and sense of hope.

Continue to support and encourage good study habits with regular homework/study times.

Keep the lines of communication open. Ask questions about what's going on in your child's life. Use open-ended questions, rather than those that require only a "yes" or "no" response.

Set aside family time at least twice a week.

Continue to stay involved! Studies show that at all grade levels - even high school - the more parents are involved in their child's life and the more they know about what is going on at school, the better their kids do.

Source: Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center via PR Newswire

How to Get the Most from Your Anti-aging Products

Getting better results from your anti-aging products can be as easy as following simple tips from dermatologists.

"People often think that the more expensive a product is, the more effective it will be," said board-certified dermatologist Susan C. Taylor, MD, FAAD, founding director of the Skin of Color Center at St. Luke's and Roosevelt Hospitals in New York City. "That's not always the case. People need to shop smart since there are some very effective, affordable products in the skin care aisles of their local stores."

To get the most from age-fighting products, Dr. Taylor recommends people also follow these tips:

1. Wear sunscreen every day since the sun's rays can accelerate signs of aging. Use a sunscreen or facial moisturizer that offers broad-spectrum protection and has an SPF of at least 30. Be sure to apply sunscreen to all skin that is not covered by clothing.

2. Do not tan. Getting a tan from the sun or a tanning bed exposes you to harmful UV rays that can accelerate aging, causing wrinkles, age spots, a blotchy complexion and even skin cancer.

3. Moisturize. Moisturizing traps water in the skin, which can help reduce the appearance of some fine lines and make your complexion look brighter and younger.

4. Test products, even those labeled "hypoallergenic." To test, dab a small amount of the product on your inner forearm twice a day for four to five days. If you do not have a reaction, it is likely safe for you to apply to your face.

5. Use the product as directed. Active ingredients can do more harm than good when too much is used. Applying more than directed can cause clogged pores, a blotchy complexion, or other unwanted effects.

6. Stop using products that sting or burn unless prescribed by a dermatologist. Irritating the skin makes signs of aging more noticeable. 

• Some products prescribed by a dermatologist may cause stinging or burning. When under a dermatologist's care, this can be safe and effective.

7. Limit the number of products. Using too many products on your skin, especially more than one anti-aging product, tends to irritate the skin. This often makes signs of aging more noticeable.

"It's very important that people allow time for the product to work. While a moisturizer can immediately plump up fine lines, most products take at least six weeks to work and sometimes it can take three months," said Dr. Taylor. "See a dermatologist if after following these tips you still do not see the expected results," said Dr. Taylor.

These tips are demonstrated in "Wrinkle Remedies," a video posted to the Academy website and the Academy's YouTube channel. This video is part of the Dermatology A to Z: Video Series, which offers relatable videos that demonstrate tips people can use to properly care for their skin, hair and nails. A new video in the series will be posted to the Academy website and the YouTube channel each month. 

PR Newswire (http://s.tt/1kMsD)
-------------------------------------------------------
Check out my link to see some great skin care products tailored to your skin type: www.lwindle.avonrepresentative.com. (Free shipping to your home with a $30 purchase throughout the U.S. I will deliver only in the DFW Metroplex.)

Chocolate Candy Maker Says Adults Who Eat Chocolate Have Better Cognitive Function

I'm down with this!

A study conducted by researchers from the University of L’Aquila in Italy and Mars, Incorporated   (as in chocolate candy maker) provides compelling new evidence that the regular consumption of dietary cocoa flavanols may improve cognitive function in elderly subjects with early memory decline. Just published online in the journal Hypertension, this current study significantly advances understanding of the benefits of flavanols by specifically exploring the impact of regular cocoa flavanol consumption on cognitive function in a population with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI). Previous research has suggested that the benefits of cocoa flavanols could extend to the brain. However, these studies were either only short-term or did not demonstrate a consistent cognitive benefit. This unique study addresses this gap and provides important insights into the possibility of slowing or even reversing cognitive declines associated with aging through consumption of these natural compounds.

Flavanols are a group of natural compounds that are particularly abundant in cocoa. A significant body of published research has shown that consumption of cocoa flavanols helps support healthy circulation and cardiovascular health.

“For the first time, regular cocoa flavanol consumption has been shown to positively affect cognitive function in older adults with early memory decline,” commented study author Dr. Giovambattista Desideri, Director of the Geriatric Division of the University of L’Aquila. “Importantly, the improvements in cognitive function were seen over a relatively short period of time; and, while further research is required to confirm and expand on these findings, this provides encouraging evidence that regular consumption of cocoa flavanols might be effective in improving cognitive function in elderly subjects with Mild Cognitive Impairment. The findings provide promising indications that the development of novel dietary approaches for improving health as we age – especially cognitive health – is a real possibility.”

The researchers tested the hypothesis that regular consumption of a drink containing cocoa flavanols would be effective in improving cognitive performance in subjects with MCI. MCI is a condition in which an individual experiences memory loss to a greater extent than one would expect for his or her age, but this is not so severe that it interferes with everyday activities. It is estimated that up to 20% of adults aged 65 or older have MCI, and recent evidence indicates that more than 6% of adults aged 70-89 develop the condition each year.

In this well-controlled, double-blind study, 90 healthy, older adults with MCI were randomly assigned to consume once daily for eight weeks a cocoa flavanol drink containing high (HF), intermediate (IF) or low (LF) amounts of cocoa flavanols (approximately 990 mg, 520 mg or 45 mg of cocoa flavanols, respectively). Normal diets were otherwise maintained. The cocoa drinks were all designed to be indistinguishable in taste and appearance, as well as calorically and nutritionally-matched. This enabled the blinding of product identities throughout the study, a critical point often overlooked in nutrition research. The cocoa flavanol drinks given to the HF and IF groups were produced by Mars using its patented Cocoapro® process, while the LF drink was made with a highly processed, alkalized cocoa powder.

The research team assessed cognitive function using a battery of standard tests that examined various aspects of memory, cognitive processing speed, executive function, as well as global cognition. The time required to complete Trail Making Test A and B – tests that examine processing speed, working memory, and executive function – was significantly improved following eight weeks of regular consumption of either the IF or HF drinks. Amazingly, the researchers measured a reduction of up to 30% in response times of the study participants who consumed these flavanol-rich drinks. Scores on the Verbal Fluency Test (VFT), which is commonly used as a measure of executive function and language, were also significantly better. Specifically, improvements were demonstrated in both the HF and IF groups and to a lesser extent in the LF group. An integrative measure of overall cognitive function – the z score – was only improved among individuals in the IF and HF groups; no evidence of improvement was demonstrated among those consuming the LF drink.

In addition, the study demonstrated significant reductions in blood pressure after the eight-week period in both the HF and IF groups, findings that are consistent with several previously published studies. A reduction in insulin resistance was also evident among individuals in these groups, an effect that was strongly linked with the improvements in cognitive function, suggesting an influential role of glucose metabolism.

“We already understand how important diet is to health, and previous research has provided consistent evidence of the benefits of cocoa flavanol consumption for cardiovascular health,” said Catherine Kwik-Uribe, a study author and R&D Director at Mars Botanical. “The results of this latest research build on these earlier findings and provide promising indication that diets that contain cocoa flavanols may offer significant benefits as we age. This is of great interest given the aging populations in much of the developed world.”

The Executive Director of the Mars Center for Cocoa Health Science, Harold Schmitz, added, “Over the past 18 months, our understanding of cocoa flavanols and their benefits has grown considerably due to our ongoing fundamental research focused on linking chemistry with human health. This approach has enabled significant scientific advancements, and may one day lead to meaningful dietary recommendations for cocoa flavanol intake.”

The research has been published in Hypertension and is available online athttp://hyper.ahajournals.org/. 

This work was supported by Mars, Incorporated and is part of a wider collaborative research program focused on examining the health benefits of cocoa flavanols. In collaboration with some of the world’s leading scientific institutions, Mars, Incorporated has been pursuing extensive research to advance understanding of cocoa flavanols for over 20 years.

Mars, Incorporated’s ongoing commitment to research in the field of cocoa flavanols is represented by the publication of more than 140 scientific papers and approximately 100 patents. Using this knowledge, Mars scientists have developed a proprietary, patented Cocoapro® process that helps to retain the flavanols found naturally inside the cocoa bean, which are usually destroyed during normal processing.

Source: Mars via PR Newswire

Bacon Ball Squash

Since the beginning of July, I’ve been all about squash, especially summer squash. I just can’t seem to get enough. I love to bake it and I’ve added to slow cooker dishes.

On my weekly swing through the farmer’s market, I spied a new squash I hadn’t seen before. It looked like zucchini, except it was round, about the size of a baseball. The sign over it said “Texas 8-ball squash.” I was curious, so I whipped out my Xoom to find out more: indeed, it’s a hybrid zucchini and can be substituted for zucchini in most recipes. It also can be stuffed. Slice off the top and scoop out the insides and stuff with meat or cheese or whatever you might stuff a bell pepper with.

On the other side of the aisle, I found a yellow version, called Golden Ball Squash. Not sure what I would do with them, I bought one of each.

My new finds sat in the refrigerator for a couple of days because I couldn’t think of anything to do with them except bake them. As I as stuffing bell peppers, I had an idea. No, I wasn’t going to stuff them too. The grocer said they made a “pretty dish,” Pretty hmmm. I dug out my round baking dish and sliced the zucchini and put it on the bottom. I layered onions then yellow squash and topped with peppered bacon. I slide it in the oven along side my stuffed peppers.

A little more than 45 minutes later, we had a delicious bacon-y twist on one of staple side dishes.

Homemade Aromatherapy

Once day this week, as I was slicing lemons for our tea, I noticed that the kitchen smelled amazing! So summery! Next I peeled cucumbers for our dinner. The summer lemon scent mingled with the fresh, clean cucumber smell. I was in olfactory heaven! I wondered how I could make the scent last longer.

Shredded lemon and cucumber peels

I remembered an small electric potpourri warmer I had put away. I hadn’t used it since we moved to the house two years ago. I guess there was a reason I hadn’t used it. It was Christmas décor – and it was cracked. I had to put my experiment on hold. I gathered up my peels and put them in the refrigerator.

On my next swath through the store, I picked up an inexpensive warmer - $10 – to see if my idea would really work.

By the time I got my warmer home, the peels weren’t as fresh as before, so I dug out my food processor and ran them through to freshen the zest. Then I spooned the mixture in the warmer. It took a few hours for the contents to heat thoroughly, but when it did, the scent was… surprising! I was expecting something maybe more like a creamy lotion-y cucumber smell. Instead mixing lemon and cucumber yielded an unexpected earthy scent – more like cut grass after a rain, very subtle notes. I discovered stirring the warm mixture helps to release even more scent. I keep the warmer next to my desk so I can indulge in the natural aromatherapy.

 I’m going to be trying some different combinations for fall. Stay tuned!

The Difference Between Men and Women Home Buyers

Get Creative with Your Garage Door -- and Freak Out the Neighbors!

Not sure these would pass muster with many HOA (well except maybe the holiday versions, but this is a great idea for covering up ugly garage doors!

Home owners often go to a lot of trouble when decorating the outside of their home, yet the garage door, by contrast, is often left looking boring and ugly. If you would like to change this, you should have a look at the style-your-garage.com website. A wide range of stunning and stylish photo covers for garage doors is waiting to be discovered.

 

The principle is simple: The so-called garage billboards are printed with images that show exactly what every car owner would like to have in the garage - be it a real fighter jet, a fancy boat, a thoroughbred horse or a quaint wine cellar. The printed 3D motifs play with different perspectives, are deceptively realistic and make passers-by stop and stare in amazement.

The photo covers are lightfast, completely weatherproof and are made from a high quality and stable material. They come with a complete installation kit and are suitable for overhead doors, side-hinged doors and sectional doors. The billboards are available for one and two-car garage doors.

The cover is not self-adhesive. Instead it is simply secured to the garage door with Velcro tape and can be easily removed at any time without leaving any residue. The online shop offers over 350 fascinating designs. Individual designs and special sizes available on request.

The unique garage door design from style-your-garage.com is available starting at $229 - bewildered looks included.

A customer from Germany, for example, has used the horse motif to give his garage door a makeover and has since observed the funniest reactions from all kinds of passers-by: Cyclists double back in order to have another look at the animals. Horses stop somewhat confused and marvel at their doubles and children come over to pet them. - This is how garage doors can be fun.

But it's not only for garage doors; interior doors and walls can also add a little more color to life.

More designs to give boring interiors a new look can be found at https://www.style-your-door.com and https://www.style-your-wall.com. An overview of prices and sizes can be found at

https://www.style-your-garage.com/us/Prices-and-sizes

PR Newswire

Coupons.com Offers Tips To Combat Rising Food Prices

 
 
 

   
    Coupons.com Offers Tips To Combat Rising Food Prices (via PR Newswire)
   

       MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif., Aug. 1, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Coupons.com, the leader in digital coupons, today announced tips to help consumers stretch their grocery budgets as food prices rise. With the U.S. Department of Agriculture's recent report noting that the record drought is expected to increase food…
   
 
 

---

 

 

 
 

College Students to Inspect for Pests in Dorm and Apartments

As college students across the U.S. head back to campus, they should be aware of pests that can be lurking in housing or furniture. Temperatures so far this year are the hottest on record, which has led to a more active and increased insect population. According to a national survey by HomeTeam Pest Defense, 84 percent of homeowners experienced a problem with pests in 2011 and weather has given them a boost this year.

"Bugs are thriving and they aren't just a nuisance to homeowners. College students about to set up residence should take some precautions when it comes to pests," says Kim Reynolds, entomologist and regional technical director for HomeTeam Pest Defense.
"Before purchasing used furniture, check it carefully for Drywood termites and German cockroaches," continues Reynolds. "If you are moving furniture that has been stored over the summer, or if your dorm room or apartment comes furnished, check for these pests in all furniture (especially desks and dressers)."

Reynolds also says that used, previously stored or furnished mattresses and couches should be carefully checked for bed bugs (summer is the peak season). Moving vans, plus the constant rotation of tenants in college dorms and apartments make it all too easy for these pests to hitch a ride from one location to another.
Residents should thoroughly inspect the property before moving in and report any problems to their R.A. or property manager. HomeTeam Pest Defense recommends the following:

Look for signs of termites in furniture—like chipping away in wooden parts of the furniture or mysterious sawdust on the floor. Drywood termite swarmers are commonly mistaken for winged ants. They can be found in furniture because they survive and breed in very little moisture and do not require soil.

Check furniture and living spaces for German cockroaches, which can hide easily and fit into very small cracks and crevices. They are only about a half an inch long (much smaller than most common cockroaches) and are most active at night.
Inspect your mattress, box spring and headboard for bed bugs. Pull back creases and folds in the mattress fabric where they like to hide. Look for the bugs themselves (adult bed bugs are about the size of an apple seed) or tiny black or reddish dots that might be signs they are present. They feed off blood and hide in cracks and crevices near warm-blooded human hosts.

Inspect corners, behind refrigerators and inside cabinets and drawers to remove cobwebs (also keep an eye out for cockroach and rodent droppings). Make sure window screens do not have tears or holes. Mice can enter a space through an opening the size of a dime and rats can enter through an opening the size of a quarter.
Check for leaky pipes and dripping water in bathrooms and kitchens. Most household pests only need small amounts of water to breed and survive.

"Move-in day is not the only time to be concerned about pests," says Reynolds. "Many fall pests, like stinkbugs, rodents and crickets, have arrived early this year and in abundance. They will begin to look for a way indoors when cooler weather arrives."
HomeTeam Pest Defense suggests the following tips for college students to help prevent pests:

Dust and vacuum your living space often.

Store food in tightly sealed containers or storage bags.

Pick up after yourself. Clothes and towels (damp or not) left lying around can be a warm environment for pests to live under.

When visiting home or friends at other campuses, be careful where you put and store your belongings to avoid carrying pests back with you.

Always wash your bedding in hot water and dry on high heat.

College students who are leasing an apartment should read the lease thoroughly to be clear who is responsible for pest control. Although there are many home remedies for different types of pest control, it is best for residents to seek the advice of a pest control expert.

Source: Home Team Pest Defense via PR Newswire

Back-to-School Discounts

The summertime seems to fly by faster and faster each year, bringing us right back to the back-to-school season. It's time to start shopping for those pencils, books, backpacks, new school shoes, uniforms or school clothes, art supplies, and yes, those expensive text books. According to the Women & Co. and Parenting.com's 2012 Back-to-School Spending Report, 60% of moms expect to spend more on clothing for their kids than any other back-to-school purchase, with 9 out of 10 planning to spend more on kids' clothes than their own. Meanwhile the National Retail Federation's 2012 Back-to-School spending survey divulges that parents with kids in grades K-12 are projected to spend $688.62 on back-to-school shopping for their children, a big increase from $603.63 last year. 

Everyone knows kids can be expensive. Thankfully CouponSnapshot, a money-saving, deal-providing website that comes with countless coupon codes and promotions, has gathered up all the greatest deals and steals to be had for the back-to-school shopping season. No matter if it's kindergarten, elementary school, middle school, high school, college, or even graduate school, CouponSnapshot.com has lined up the best deals on the Web to help parents save money as they get their kids ready for school this year.

"We know the back-to-school shopping list seems never-ending," says CouponSnapshot's marketing director. "It is no secret that the back-to-school season is the second biggest spending season of the year, falling short only to the holidays. Our dedicated team of deal-finding experts has worked tirelessly to find the best deals and promotions to help get kids ready for the new school year. We have pulled together deals and coupons on everything from text books to laptops, school clothes and shoes, books, electronics, school supplies, and more."

A number of the most popular stores offering back-to-school savings at CouponSnapshot include: Amazon, Apple Store, Sony Store, Sears, Lenovo, Dell, Toshiba, Discount School Supply, Course Smart, The Children's Place, Crazy 8, MiniinTheBox, Kipling, Toys R Us, Barnes & Noble, Gap, Carter's, Newegg, Macy's, Kohl's, and the DisneyStore. Deals range from percent-off and dollars-off deals to freebies with purchase and free shipping.

Some of the top steals and deals for back-to-school at CouponSnapshot.com are:

• Apple Store – Up to $200 off for students, faculty, and staff
• Buy.com – Up to 86% off back-to-school store
• Discount School Supply – Up to 69% off retail prices
• DisneyStore – 33% off Minnie Mouse composition book
• Famous Footwear - 15% off purchase; an extra 20% off for rewards members
• GlassesUSA – 30% off 1 pair purchase + free shipping + $20 cashback
• HP – Free 4GB Xbox 360 with purchase of select PC for $699 or more
• L.L. Bean – New School Backpacks starting at $29.95

Parents can also find deals that align with their kids' after-school activities, like running and athletics; New Balance offers up to 15 percent off on selected shopping and HockeyMonkey's deal gives an additional 20% off select items.

Something else parents and students should consider is shopping around for textbooks online. A lot of times you can find the same textbook at Amazon or another online retailer for half the price compared to the school bookstore. CouponSnapshot also partners with Course Smart and Chegg, providers of eTextbooks and digital course materials. These partners offer between 50% and 80% off their prices through CouponSnapshot's back-to-school deals. For more great savings, visit CouponSnapshot's Back-to-School Deals page.

"There are too many back-to-school savings to count," says CouponSnapshot's CEO. "We truly enjoy helping consumers save money, especially on those purchases they can't get away from, like back-to-school shopping. We at CouponSnapshot know educating your children isn't cheap, so we look forward to contributing to your back-to-school savings the best we can."

SOURCE CouponSnapshot.com via PR Newswire