Tag: Legal Name Change

  • AREAS IN YOUR HOME THAT YOU PROBABLY IGNORE WHILE CLEANING 

    AREAS IN YOUR HOME THAT YOU PROBABLY IGNORE WHILE CLEANING 

    By now, you probably have settled on a cleaning schedule for your home. You vacuum, mop, dust, and sanitize all the surfaces of your home, and it looks spotless, but there are always ways to improve. There are a ton of surfaces in your home that you might be neglecting. They can be easy to forget because most of them are out of sight and out of mind.

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    In Your Kitchen

    Let’s start with your cabinets, especially your pantry. Dust accumulates inside and outside of cabinets, so even though the doors are closed, there are still dead skin cells and dander settling down on your pots, pans, and food. They won’t get as dusty because they’re in the cabinet, but it’s a good idea to empty and clean your cupboards and pantry every once in a while. It also allows you to reorganize and get rid of what you don’t use. 

    Cleaning your fridge and freezer is also an excellent idea. Everyone will eventually have some moldy take-out food container in the back of the refrigerator. It gets pushed to the back and forgotten about until an awful odor appears. Cleaning out your perishable food will prevent this from happening and keep your food more accessible. You’ll also have the opportunity to clean any stains on your refrigerator shelves. 

    After you’re finished cleaning the inside of your fridge, try to clean underneath and behind it too. Dust, moisture, dirt, and food all tend to get unintentionally pushed under the refrigerator. If you can, move your fridge out so you can clean the floor. While it’s out, clean the coils on the back of the appliance. They collect dust and cleaning them can help your refrigerator be more efficient. 

    The last major kitchen item you should clean is your dishwasher. It needs a deep clean every few months, and it can go through a cleaning cycle every few weeks. Food particles, soap grime, and water can get trapped in some of the mechanisms. Cleaning your dishwasher will help keep your dishes clean and prevent an unpleasant odor from occurring. 

    In The Bathroom

    The bathroom has the potential to be one of the grossest places in your home, and that’s why you probably pay close attention to all areas of it while you’re cleaning. Still, particles filled with bacteria can be thrown around all areas of the room. Here are some places you might have missed. 

    When was the last time you cleaned and organized the storage space underneath your sink? It’s probably where you store all of your cleaning supplies, but they can’t clean it all by themselves! Our cleaning supplies can get dirty as we make our way through our chores, so it’s always a good idea to disinfect that area now and then. 

    Another place to pay attention to in the bathroom is the nooks and crannies, like in between cabinets or behind the toilet. Spiderwebs will often appear in those areas and collect dust and germs. It only takes a quick dusting and disinfecting wipes to fix the problem. 

    In Your Living Spaces

    Living spaces, like living rooms, dens, and playrooms, are most likely the area in the home you clean the most. The chances are that you vacuum all the time, you’re constantly wiping down the surfaces, and keeping these areas tidy is part of your daily routine. Like the other areas of your home, you may be forgetting some things. 

    You need to start disinfecting your remote controls. It’s a surface in your home that everyone touches regularly. People pick up the remote after they pet the family dog, go to the bathroom, and eat greasy food. Thankfully, they’re also the easiest thing to clean because you just have to wipe them down with a disinfectant wipe. 

    Just like the refrigerator, you should also be cleaning under your living room furniture. Food, toys, trash, and other random things can end up hanging out under your sofa with a ton of dust bunnies. A quick vacuuming will do the trick. Actually, it’s a good reminder to clean under all of your furniture, in all rooms of your house.

    Cleaning your washer and dryer is great to do every few months. Like the dishwasher, water and grime can accumulate in the washer. Cleaning the dryer is even more critical because built-up lint can become a fire hazard. You might even get lucky and find some money in your dryer if someone left it in their pants pocket! 

    In The Bedroom

    Unfortunately, cleaning your sheets and pillowcases just isn’t enough to keep your bed clean. Every few months, or weeks, you should also be cleaning your mattress and pillows. Your sheets keep most of the grime off your mattress, but some sweat is going to get through. If you don’t want to clean your mattress, you can put a plastic cover under your sheets. It will keep your mattress looking brand new. 

    This next cleaning tip applies to your whole house, not just your bedroom, but you have to dust and wash your curtains. Fabric attracts dust like it’s made of double-sided tape. Dusting and vacuuming your curtains once a week helps, but eventually, you’ll have to take them down and wash them. Don’t forget to dust your blinds too! 

     

    Around The House 

    People often overlook ceiling fans and light fixtures when they’re dusting because they tend to be out of sight and out of mind. Still, it’s important to clean them, especially ceiling fans. If you turn on a dusty ceiling fan, it will spread the dust everywhere in the room and potentially cause someone’s allergies to flare up. 

    A lot of people also overlook their windows because curtains or blinds cover them. You should clean the windowsill, the glass, and the screen, especially when it’s spring. Plus, cleaning your windows is a great reminder to open them every once and a while! 

    All the items on this list don’t have to be done every week but consider putting them on a list to do every other week or once a month. Please, don’t forget about them! Cleaning these areas will help you keep your home beautiful. 

     

  • 10 Recipes For Summer

    10 Recipes For Summer

    After so many years, all the recipes for summer seem to look the same and blend together. Thankfully, the wonderful people of the internet come up with new and exciting recipes all the time. We’ve already scoured the internet looking for the best recipes, now all you have to do is make them! 

    You can make an entire meal with the recipes on this list, and it would be amazing. We hope you love this list of salads, grilled entrees, and desserts. They’re perfect for summer, and they’ll have your family reaching for seconds.

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    Salads

    Pasta salads can get tiring in the summertime. They’re full of mayo, and they can feel really heavy after sitting in your stomach all day. They’re a classic recipe for summer, but why not switch it up every once and a while? These salads are a great alternative.

    Watermelon Salad with Arugula and Feta 

    https://whiteonricecouple.com/recipes/arugula-watermelon-feta-salad/

    This light and sweet salad combine a few different complimentary flavors to create a new and exciting side dish. You can choose what herbs you want to mix in, but adding basil is always a safe choice. It goes so well with the watermelon, but it’s not as predictable as the watermelon and mint combination. 

    The salad is refreshing and easy to make in about 15 minutes. It has about 150 calories a serving, and it serves six people. You can easily double or triple the recipe to make it for a barbeque!

     

    Caprese Salad

    https://seekinggoodeats.com/caprese-salad-cherry-tomatoes/

    Everyone is a sucker for a Caprese salad, sandwich, or anything, really. It’s a nutritious and refreshing salad that couldn’t be easier to make. The bright color of the tomatoes against the mozzarella creates an exciting contrast that anyone would love to have on their plate. This salad is also great for anyone who’s trying to stick to a diet. 

    You can use this salad as a side dish or as an appetizer. It takes less than ten minutes to make, and you can serve it right away, or you can make it 24 hours in advance and leave it in your fridge until you’re ready. 

    On The Grill

    No one can pass up a meal that was grilled on the barbeque. The smoky flavors and charred meat can’t be beat. Here are some classic, and not so classic, on the grill recipes for summer. 

    Garlic Butter Grilled Corn

    https://rasamalaysia.com/grilled-corn/

    Grilled corn is a staple item on any grill during the summer. It’s a crowd-pleaser, and everyone gets excited when they see it. This recipe takes it to the next level by adding garlic butter to the cobs before throwing them on the grill. 

    Try something new on your corn this year. This recipe is so easy; even your clumsiest family member can help prepare it. From grill to plate, it only takes 15 minutes to make. This recipe is great in a pinch. 

    BBQ Chicken Nachos

    https://butteryourbiscuit.com/foil-packet-bbq-chicken-nachos/

    Here’s a twist on the chicken nacho. This super fun dish is meant to be made over a campfire or on a grill. So, whether you’re in your backyard or the middle of a forest, you can enjoy this crispy dish. The secret to success is using a sturdy tortilla chip so they don’t get soggy and break after cooking. 

    The total cook time is only 25 minutes. The best part about this recipe is that you can customize it for each family member. If you have any picky kids, or you like jalapenos, and your spouse doesn’t, no one has to compromise. 

     

    Pineapple Chicken Kababs 

    https://www.willcookforsmiles.com/pineapple-grilled-chicken-kebabs/

    Kababs are the best, and no one will be able to convince me otherwise. You can cook anything in kabab form, and it will be ten times better because it’s on a stick. Kababs make food feel more summery and festive. Everyone, especially kids, has a great time eating them. 

    The kababs take about 20 minutes to put together and 20 minutes to cook. Marinating the chicken takes the most amount of time. It takes a whopping eight hours to marinate it correctly. So, you might want to consider marinating overnight or putting the chicken in the marinade first thing in the morning.

    Desserts 

    Some people would argue that dessert is the best part of the meal. We happen to agree with them. These are some of the most refreshing and enjoyable summer dessert recipes out there. Make them but be careful. They can be addictive! 

    Peach Crumb Bars

    https://celebratingsweets.com/peach-crumb-bars/?utm_medium=social&utm_source=pinterest&utm_campaign=tailwind_tribes&utm_content=tribes&utm_term=1117726294_53438074_524716

    The best dessert recipes for summer all include fruit, and this one is one of the best. These bars are basically a cobbler, pie, and cookie rolled into one. The almond and buttery flavors mix beautifully with the peaches. Be prepared; everyone will ask for this recipe. 

    This dessert takes a bit more time to make, but it’s worth it. It will take you about 30 minutes to prep and another 40 minutes to bake. The recipe gives you a tutorial on how to peel your peaches, which should save you some time! If you want to make this dessert perfect, make some homemade whipped cream while it’s in the oven. Vanilla ice cream works too!

    No-Bake Éclair Cake

    https://spaceshipsandlaserbeams.com/no-bake-eclair-cake-easy-recipe/

    Of course, if you’re not a fruit lover, you need a dessert option too. This cake only has five ingredients, and most of them don’t even require measuring cups. Once you get the hang of making this cake, you can change the pudding flavor to create a few versions.

    This cake only takes 15 minutes to make, and once it’s done, it’s ready to serve. There are so many different ways you can change this cake! Please, make sure to read the whole recipe to discover how you want to customize it for your family. 

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    Head To The Grill!

    It’s not too early or too late to have a summer cookout. Take these recipes, get your shopping list ready, and head to the grocery store! We’re sure you’ll end up making these recipes more than once. 

  • Outdoor Activities You Can Do With Your Kids

    Outdoor Activities You Can Do With Your Kids

    Summertime is prime time for outdoor activities. Unless you live in the South, summer might be the only time you can enjoy the great outdoors. So, now that the warm weather is here, you can capitalize on the sunshine and plan a ton of activities for you to do with your kids.

    After a long winter stuck inside, you and your child deserve to experience an exciting and active summer. Here are some ideas to stay active and have fun! 

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    Productive

    As adults, we know that warm weather isn’t all fun and games; we have responsibilities. Still, those responsibilities shouldn’t stand in the way of having a good time. There are easy and productive outdoor tasks that your kids can help you with. Not only will they be engaged in the activity, but they will also be helping you out.

    Kids love getting dirty, which means they’ll love helping you with gardening. Whether you’re planting fully formed flowers or starting them from seeds, getting your child involved is easy. This is an excellent opportunity to let them learn how gardening works and see their flowers and hard work grow. 

    They can also help you clean outside chairs and their summer toys like swing sets. Getting them to clean their toys and outdoor equipment will teach them responsibility while letting them have fun with the hose. Just don’t get mad when they spray you and leave your cell phone inside! 

     

    Just For Fun

    Sure, hard work and responsibilities can be outdoor activities, but eventually, your kiddos are going to want to do something fun, and so are you. Get back in touch with your childish side and break out the bubbles. 

    Bubbles are a simple outdoor activity that you can turn into something creative. Add food coloring to make different colored bubbles or fill a kiddie pool with the bubble juice and make giant bubbles with a hula hoop. There are tons of bubble hacks on the internet to make them even more fun. 

    When you’re in the mood to relax and chill out this summer, consider putting up a tire swing or a hammock. Even better, do both! Take a nap on the hammock while the kids push each other on the tire swing. It’s a win-win all around.

    Since it’s the summer, we can’t forget about water-related outdoor activities! Let’s be honest; some of the most fun you can have is spraying everyone with the hose. It’s simple, easy, and refreshing once the temperature hits the triple digits! If that ever gets boring, or you don’t feel like chasing your kids around, get a sprinkler. Sure, they’re made to water your grass, but as a kid, it’s so fun to run through them!

    The final water-related outdoor activity is perfect for kids of all ages. Everyone loves a competitive water balloon fight. Let them fill a tub full of water balloons in the backyard and go at it. You can also use this as a creative way to end silly fights between siblings.

     

    Keep Them Busy

    It can be hard to keep kids outside these days because they constantly want to run back to their phones, computers, and iPads, but if you create time-consuming activities that keep them engaged, it’ll be easier to keep them off their screens. If you do a great job, they might even lose track of how long it’s been since they checked their notifications. 

    One way to keep them occupied is with a scavenger hunt. You can create one in your backyard or get the neighborhood kids involved. If you want them to stay engaged, tell them that whoever wins gets a prize like choosing that night’s dinner. 

    You can get hours or even days of fun out of a big pack of chalk. It’s fun to get on the ground and be creative. Create designs and draw with your kids, and then once that gets dull, switch it up. Play tic-tac-toe, hang-man, hop-scotch, or come up with a whole new sidewalk activity. The possibilities are pretty endless.

    Here’s an obvious outdoor activity, sports! Playing catch, basketball, and throwing a football around can be a great bonding experience for you and your kids. The same goes for riding your bikes, jumping rope, and even learning how to hula hoop. Parents and kids bond over sports every day, and it’s an amazing way to keep your kids outside. 

    If you have kids who are too young to play sports or are not athletically inclined, they don’t have to miss out on the physical activity. Games like manhunt, freeze tag, and hide and seek are all classic childhood games that can be a lot of fun with an adult, especially if the adult is willing to always be the seeker.

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    Adult Supervision

    Of course, some of the best things in life can be dangerous, so these outdoor activities should have consistent adult supervision. It’s not that any of these activities are inherently hazardous or that you should be concerned, but some extra care and attention never hurt! 

    First, you can have a campfire or bonfire. This is a classic summertime activity that the whole family can get excited about. Tell your musically inclined kid to bring their guitar down and have a family sing-along. At the very least, make sure you have the supplies for s’mores. 

    Pools are also a classic activity. They’re a no-brainer! Everyone loves relaxing in a pool on a sunny day in July, and the small inflatable pools are getting more affordable every year. Maybe pools aren’t your thing, and that’s fine. Take the kids to your local creek or river and go searching for different types of wildlife. 

     

    Even if you take them to the park for a picnic or to climb a tree, it will be good for you and your family to go outside and enjoy the nice weather. The quality time you’ll spend together, and the memories you make will be priceless. So, get out there and enjoy some of these outdoor activities! 

  • Home Décor For Summer 2021

    Home Décor For Summer 2021

    It’s time for you to update your home décor! New and exciting trends emerge every season, and it’s your job to decide how and if they’ll be incorporated into your home. You’re done with spring cleaning; now it’s time to take it one step further with new home décor. 

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    The Style

    Once again, everyone loves the rustic and cottage care styles. People are spending less time in their homes now that the warm weather is here, making people yearn for something simple. Life outside the comfort of your home can be so overwhelming, so let’s turn your home into a safe space where you can relax. 

    Aim for a rustic farmhouse motif for a calming aesthetic. This summer is all about trying to make your home light and airy, no matter what style you end up with. Keep everything clean and get rid of all the clutter and junk that’s thrown around your home. The key is to have excellent organization skills.

     

    Colors and Textures

    The colors and textures for this summer play into the light and airy farmhouse style. Look for neutral and natural warm tones that will lighten up your space. Lighter shades are the better option for summer but don’t be afraid to add a darker accent color, like a walnut finish or a chocolate brown. 

    You’ll mainly be working with a variety of cream and tan colors. They create an excellent backdrop for natural and nature items like natural wood or plants. Plants are always a great way to incorporate some life into your room. Don’t worry. If you don’t have a green thumb, fake plants work just as well! 

    Rattan accents have been on trend for a while, and it doesn’t seem like they’re going anywhere. This material is perfect when you need to add some dimension and texture into the room. Rattan is easy to find and easy to style. It’s almost always a natural wood color so that it will work within any color pallet. 

    Still, we’re talking about summer, so I bet you’re wondering when the bright and fun colors will come into play. If you’re a person who loves statement colors and accent décor, I have good news. This year, home décor for summer is being taken over by the color blue!

    The statement color is a bright blue, almost cerulean. It’s the kind of blue you think of when you imagine the summer sky, tropical beaches, and nautical décor. When you decide you want to liven up your space, a few essential home décor items in this bright blue will do the trick. 

     

    Furniture Trends 

    If you’re looking to completely redecorate, these are the furniture trends that have people running to the furniture store. Even if you’re not redecorating, you probably have a few items in your home that you want to replace. Now is your perfect opportunity. 

    We’re still following the light and airy style for summer, so you should be looking at furniture with rounded edges. Keep an eye out for circle or oval tables, round ottomans, and even rounded sofas. These edges will soften the space and give it a more calming aura.

    This summer’s natural features also apply to furniture. Wood and stone pieces are rapidly growing in popularity. Wood, especially when it’s worn in and thrifted, is in high demand because it gives the home a lived-in look that matches the farmhouse style. Stone, specifically raw and sculpted stone, will add texture and definition to an otherwise flat space. 

     

    New Additions

    There are some smaller and more affordable home décor options, other than furniture to add to your home. For example, floating shelves have been popular for years, but their slick and minimalistic look keeps them on-trend in every season. Plus, more shelving and wall décor is always a bonus. 

    If you’re struggling to find ways to incorporate the bright blue statement color, sea glass is a great place to start. You can find a lot of sea glass-styled pieces in bright blue and green. It can also help tie in more natural elements. Remember, the sea glass doesn’t have to be authentic. You can go to any home décor store and find artificial sea glass. 

    Finally, everyone and I mean everyone, is adding wallpaper in their homes. Wallpaper isn’t for old ladies anymore. It comes in so many different styles, patterns, and textures; everyone can find a wallpaper that matches their aesthetic. Whether it’s temporary or you glue it down, it will jazz up your space.

    Don’t feel obligated to wallpaper your entire home or even a whole room. You can use wallpaper as an accent wall, for the interior of cabinets, or to line your closet. Don’t be afraid to be creative and bold when utilizing wallpaper. 

    Things to Ditch

    As new home decor trends come in, some have to go out. Here are the things in your home that the experts are telling you to ditch. Some of them might be hard to part with, but you’ll feel great after you’re finished redecorating.  

    First, you’re going to want to ditch anything that is single-use. As you’re incorporating new trends, consider how it’s impacting the environment and the world around you. Try ditching paper towels for reusable ones. Instead of cheap sponges, get some of the natural biodegradable ones. A lot of these products are well made and pleasant to look at. You’ll be helping the planet while helping your home’s overall aesthetic. 

    You’ll also want to get rid of your curtains if you can. Curtains can make the room feel heavier and darker, even in the summer. Let the natural light flood your home and ditch the curtains. All they do is take up wall space, prevent light from coming in, and collect dust. 

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    This summer, you don’t have to change every aspect of your home to be trendy. Take a few of these elements, the ones that are easy to add to your home, and incorporate them. You don’t need to add everything that’s on this list. Just take some inspiration and make it your own. 

     

  • HOW TO DECLUTTER KIDS TOYS-AND KEEP IT THAT WAY

    HOW TO DECLUTTER KIDS TOYS-AND KEEP IT THAT WAY

    Decluttering your kid’s toy area can not only be stressful but emotional. It’s difficult getting rid of toys that they’ve been playing with for so long, but once your child has outgrown them, all they’re doing is collecting dust. Even though it may cause a problem or even a temper tantrum, you have to declutter, and there’s no better time than spring cleaning. 

    Get ready to throw out the old and welcome the new. These playroom decluttering tips will help you expel all the unwanted, unloved, and unused toys in your home. 

    Where To Start

    Since getting rid of toys can be so emotional, it’s best to start with the easiest items to get rid of. If they’re broken or damaged, throw them in the trash. Next, check to see if there are any duplicates. No child needs four different “make your own slime” kits. One is enough, especially if they’re not using it regularly. 

    More easy toys to throw away are ones that are missing pieces. Board games are notorious for this problem, but so are card games and some dolls with specific accessories. When it’s not possible to use a toy for its original purpose, get rid of it. 

    After that, you can start at the top and work your way down. Go through the shelves, bookshelves, and the closet looking for forgotten items. If they’re stored away in a tub, collecting dust on a high shelf, or hidden in the back of the closet, you don’t need it in your home. 

    Another great way to start is by asking your kids what toys they don’t want anymore or which ones they don’t play with. Tell them that you’re going to donate the toys to other children who will really appreciate them and play with them all the time. Sometimes, knowing that the toys are going to a good home instead of a landfill can soften the blow of losing toys. 

     

    Get The Kids Involved

    Including your kids in the decluttering process can give them valuable life skills. It can help them learn what items they value, when to keep those items, and when to move on. Plenty of adults have issues letting go of material objects, which can be a massive detriment to them. So, get your kids to start decluttering sooner rather than later.

    It’s important to ease them into the process. One of the best ways to do that is to have a couple of similar toys lined up for them to choose from. Gather all of their dollhouses, toy cars, and action figures and allow your child to see how similar they are. Then, let them choose which one to keep and which ones they’re willing to part with. 

    Once they decide and they’re ready to get rid of the other similar toys, make sure you praise them! Getting rid of material belongings as an adult can be challenging, but it can be even worse as a kid. These are some of their very first possessions, and they can hold some powerful memories. 

    Encouraging them to continue to declutter and reassuring them that they will get new toys in the future will help them let go. Remember, you’re not replacing these items any time soon, but when the holidays and birthdays come around, your house will be filled with toys again. 

     

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    What Can You Do With The Toys

    Once everyone has come to their final decisions of what toys you should keep and what toys you should get rid of, it’s up to you to decide how you’ll get rid of them. Luckily, you have a few options. You already know that if a toy is broken or missing pieces, it’s time to throw it in the trash. 

    The tricky part is deciding what to do with the toys that are still in working order. You basically have two choices. You can donate them, or you can sell them. 

    When you donate them, you can donate them to a thrift store, a place that receives donations and gives them to the less fortunate, or you can give them to your friends and family who have younger kids. It doesn’t matter where you donate them, as long as they’re out of your house.

    You have a few different options when it comes to selling toys. Online markets, like Facebook and LetGo, are great if you only have a few toys to sell or if you’re willing to sell in bulk. Selling a lot of toys individually online can take a lot of time and effort, and it might not be worth it. 

    The other option is a garage sale. I love garage sales for a few reasons. For one, you can get your kids involved! They can help price the toys, set them out on display, and they might even get to see what child will be able to enjoy it next. 

    Selling toys is also an excellent option for when your child has a hard time letting go of the items. Talk to them and ask them what they want to do with the money once their toys are gone. Take them to their favorite restaurant or have a pizza party with the money. It will be easier for them to let go of the old toys when they have something new to look forward to. 

    Other Decluttering Tips

    Do your best to let go of the guilt that comes with getting rid of so many toys. In the end, you’re doing the right thing for your home, yourself, and especially your kids. They don’t need to be overstimulated with options when they can use their imagination and the toys you’re keeping. 

    If you know one or more of your children won’t be happy with losing some toys, start the process when they’re not around. Start during nap time, while they’re at school, or on a playdate. You know what toys your kids play with. They might not even notice that these toys are gone. 

    Once all you’re finished decluttering, create a system. The best method to keep your home decluttered is the one in and one out approach. If your child wants another toy or gets another toy for a holiday, it’s time to get rid of one. That way, you’ll always have the same number of toys in your home, no matter what. 

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    Be strong and keep decluttering until you’re left with toys that have value to your child. This process can be challenging now, but once your house is clean and junk-free, everyone will feel much better. Then you can start decluttering your own space!

  • Top Honeymoon Destinations In 2021

    Top Honeymoon Destinations In 2021

    Finding honeymoon destinations in 2021 can be a daunting and challenging task if you don’t know where to look. Lucky for you, you’ve stumbled across this post! We have compiled a ton of local and international locations for your consideration. They’re all open for tourism and ready to supply you with the best honeymoon ever. 

    US Destinations

    If you’re looking for an easy-breezy honeymoon, you’re going to want to stay inside the United States. These locations are easy to travel to, and they don’t have strict travel guidelines like some international destinations. 

    Napa Valley, California, is a romantic and easy to access location in the United States. Wine country is always a great place to honeymoon, but now it’s even better. You can be as secluded and private as you want, even when you’re at the wineries. You can stay distanced from others while you learn about and enjoy all the wine around you. Nothing is better than that. 

    The east coast holds Charleston, North Carolina. A quaint city filled with southern charm. Foodies better watch out because this city might be dangerous for you! There are amazing food and sights around every corner. You’ll also be able to get gorgeous photos of all the colorful and unique streets. 

    Outdoorsy couples might favor Cape Cod, Massachusetts. This spot is a common vacation destination, but it can be overlooked when it comes to honeymoon destinations. Massachusetts is also full of historical sites and museums. Cape Cod is perfect for couples who want to explore and sightsee instead of staying in their hotel room for the entire honeymoon. 

    The final destination in the United States category is a classic. It’s Disney World in Orlando. Their COVID guidelines are changing as needed, but the charm of Disney has not gone away. Most of the resorts, restaurants, and rides are open and accepting excited Disney park visitors. As long as you follow the park’s safety guidelines, you’ll have a fantastic time. It might even be better because the park isn’t at total capacity! Lines and wait times will be much shorter. 

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    International Destinations

    With COVID restrictions, international honeymoon destinations can be much more difficult to find, but it’s not impossible! Some locations are open for tourism and ready to welcome you back. As you choose your honeymoon destination, pay close attention to that countries specific COVID guidelines! 

    Let’s start the international list off strong with Bora Bora! The entire French Polynesia region is open for tourism. You’ll have your choice of all the available hotels, resorts, and bungalows the island has to offer. For couples who want a relaxing and sun-drenched honeymoon destination, this should be first on your list. Your luxury resort will have some great activities planned, but don’t be afraid to get out on your own and explore. There’s a lot to see.

    When you’re looking for a Caribbean honeymoon, St. Lucia is the perfect spot. This stunning and tropical island hosts several resorts and countless beaches. Anyone who wants to come back home from their honeymoon tanned, relaxed, and maybe a bit hungover should seriously consider this island.

    If St. Lucia looks nice, but it isn’t for you, consider Turks & Caicos. It’s also in the Caribbean, but it has a very different vibe from St. Lucia. Once again, you’ll have a vast selection of resorts and spas to choose from on these islands. Take your time to go scuba diving at the barrier reef or stay on the sand and spend time with your new spouse. 

     

    All of these international honeymoon destinations will give you memories to last a lifetime. No matter what location you choose, it will be the right one. You only get one honeymoon, and you deserve the perfect trip for you and your brand new spouse. 

    What You Need To Know While Traveling

    We’ve all been impacted by the pandemic, and honeymoon destinations are no exception. Depending on where you travel, COVID-19 test may be mandatory before entering or leaving a destination. Even if testing isn’t required, you’re going to have moments on your trip where you realize that things have changed. Don’t expect to visit a destination that you’ve been to before and have it be exactly the same. 

    Masks will be required almost everywhere you go, and hand sanitizer will be your best friend. It may seem like the pandemic is coming to an end, but it’s still unpredictable. As the vaccines roll out, everyone will start traveling again, but that doesn’t mean places will be open at total capacity. You might be fighting for a spot at your favorite restaurant or on the plane. 

    Your best bet is to plan as far in advance as possible. Create a schedule for your trip and make reservations as far in advance as you can. This is your honeymoon! You deserve to eat at all your favorite restaurants and experience all the activities you’ve been looking forward to. Don’t miss out because they are completely booked. 

    At the same time, don’t be too disappointed if activities or restaurants aren’t open yet. Depending on the guidelines in that area and the owner’s preference, some businesses might not open until the pandemic is over. Have a backup plan, and don’t get discouraged. You might find a different place that is way better than the first. 

    Most importantly, before you book your trip and before you leave, check your destination’s COVID guidelines! Ensure you know what you’re walking into so you don’t accidentally get stuck at an airport. If you need a COVID test, make sure you have them scheduled and bring your results with you. Schedule a test for when you get home, too, just in case! 

     

    Hopefully, this list will help you find your perfect honeymoon destination. Please, travel safely in 2021, and congratulations on your brand new marriage. You deserve this trip considering all of the craziness that has gone on in the past year. Go have a fun and relaxing honeymoon! 

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  • How To Keep Your Kids Focused On Virtual Learning

    How To Keep Your Kids Focused On Virtual Learning

    The pandemic has been brutal on everyone, but it’s been the hardest on the children. Kids need a stimulating and structured environment to thrive in an educational setting, and they have not been given that setting in over a year now. While they’re great at adapting, staying focused on virtual learning will always be difficult. 

    Now that an entire year of virtual learning has passed, teachers and parents have come up with a few tips and tricks to keep kids focused on school during the day. Some of these ideas could work so well that you’ll continue using them once in-school learning is back in action! 

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    Brain Breaks

    Introducing brain breaks throughout the day can help your child get in the right headspace to learn and focus on school. You can give your child brain breaks throughout the day, but you want to make sure to get them in after lunch, physical activity, or a break like recess. After major stimulation, like after a non-structured break like recess, your child needs to refocus.

    That’s the purpose of a brain break. It shouldn’t act like another lunch break. It should be structured physical movement like light stretching, shaking it out, or Simon Says. It can also be calming or breathing exercises. Make taking brain breaks a habit. When they have a break for lunch or anything else while they’re at home, end it five to ten minutes early so they can take their brain break and get back in the zone before class starts. 

    Checklists 

    Preparing a daily checklist or to-do list that resets every day can help your child reach their academic goals. It will help keep them on track by showing them exactly what needs to get done that day. Lists also help release a lot of stress that comes with having a non-structured day. 

    Lists also allow them to feel like they have control over their day when they can choose the order in which some of the tasks get done. Your child can’t control the school day and virtual learning, but they can have some input about what happens before and after school. 

     

    Use A Timer

    As you’re going through that checklist or your daily activities, use a kitchen timer to track the activity.  Tell your child exactly how long they need to focus on that activity and set the timer. Using a timer does two things. 

    First, it will prevent your kid from worrying about whether the time is up or if they can stop because they will have a physical representation of the time independent from their parent. Second, it will keep the two of you accountable for how much time you’re spending on each task.

    After a while, you’ll have a better understanding of how quickly your child loses focus. You’ll also be able to tell what tasks grab their attention and what they lose focus on quickly. That will be a great help when you’re finding activities that will help keep them on task.

    Interactive Activities

    If you’re lucky enough to have any control in your kid’s school day, try to incorporate interactive activities. If you can’t do it during the day, try adding activities to their homework time. Make math practice physical by showing them how to add and subtract using objects instead of numbers. Do a science experiment with them to keep them engaged or read out loud to them. Twenty minutes of engagement can lead to a few hours of focus. 

     

    Create Connections

    Use the topic or subject that your child is learning to create a connection in your own life. Forming connections from the material to the real world will make them care about the subject more, increase their focus, and help them absorb the information. 

    This is also an excellent chance to use this time to create a deeper connection between you and your child. Sure, they’re doing virtual learning for school, but when they see how interested you are and how much you care, they’ll care too. 

    Connect With The Teacher

    If you notice your child is having difficulty focusing on the task at hand or the material, you should check in with the teacher to see what you can do. Ask them what you can do to help improve your child’s focus. They might have great activities or ideas for you to try outside of the classroom and on breaks. 

    They can also give you information on setting your child up for success before school and how to improve their virtual learning environment. Ask them for any recommendations on interactive activities and any advice they are willing to share. They’ve been doing virtual learning for a while now. They probably have some great tips! 

     

    Healthy Habits

    Eating the right food and getting a good night’s sleep can profoundly impact how your child performs while virtual learning. A tired and distracted kid will lose focus quickly, and when they are focused, they will not retain much information. Fuel them with a full eight hours of sleep and nutritious foods to keep them on task all day long. 

    Positive Reinforcement 

    Your child can’t know if they’re doing a good job if you don’t tell them, so don’t be shy when it comes to giving them praise and positive reinforcement. Compliment them when they do well or get a correct answer and provide them with praise when you can see they’re trying their best. 

    A lack of focus can stem from when a child is tired or about to give up emotionally or mentally. Nothing matters more to a child than having a solid support system. Encouraging words can boost a child’s confidence and have a positive impact on their level of focus. 

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    Test out these different techniques and mix them together. Every child learns differently, so you need to find the right combination of tricks to use for your child. It doesn’t happen overnight, but as long as your child stays focused, that’s all that matters. 

  • 9 Things You Need To Do After Your Wedding

    9 Things You Need To Do After Your Wedding

    The most beautiful and stressful day of your life is over. The bittersweet feelings will fade away as soon as you start enjoying your status as newlyweds, but before that can begin, you have to do a few more things. It’s not hard, but you will regret it if you skip almost any of these steps.

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    Relax and Appreciate The Experience

    First things first, you have to take time to relax. Weddings are stressful, but it’s over now. It’s time to start your lives together. Sleep in for a few days, and put your phone on do not disturb mode. Don’t even think about cooking. You need to reserve the days after your wedding for take-out. 

    Reflect on your wedding day and what a great time you had. Laugh at that one guest that drank too much or the couple who wore matching outfits. Make sure the memories you made stick. Then, refocus on romance and finding your footing in this next step in your relationship. This is your opportunity to go out into the world and reintroduce yourself. 

    Change Your Name

    Speaking of introducing yourselves, if you haven’t done it already, changing your last name can be a long process with a lot of different steps. HitchSwitch can help! Still, you need to start the process to make it official. Changing your name also means you have to change it on your bank accounts, insurance documents, and other legal matters.

    Not only do you have to change your name on important documents, but you also get to change your name on social media. Make sure you change your username too. It’s time to shout your new name at the top of your lungs! 

     

    Open Presents And Send Thank You Cards

    You’ve been patiently waiting to open that massive pile of cards and presents, and now is your chance. This might be the best post-wedding activity you get to do, other than your honeymoon. As you begin opening, it’s a fantastic idea to write down exactly who gave you what as you’re opening the gifts. 

    Doing this can save you a lot of work and trouble as you start to write your thank you cards. You’ll be very grateful that you kept track of everything you got. It will also help you personalize each thank you card so everyone feels valued.

    Honeymoon Preparation 

    The most stressful task on this list is preparing for your honeymoon. There’s always a lot of pressure surrounding the honeymoon, but there doesn’t have to be. It’s just a vacation that you’re taking with your spouse, and it may become the best vacation of your life. No pressure. 

    To prep, you need to pack, make last-minute reservations, and purchase any last-minute items and snacks for the plane. Bonus points if you remember to pack matching outfits. Make a list and check it a few times as you’re packing. Oh, and don’t forget your plane tickets. 

     

    Next Morning Brunch

    The next morning brunch will only apply to you if you plan on seeing people after your wedding, but it’s something everyone should at least consider, especially if you’re having guests from out of town. A brunch is an excellent option for couples who never want the party to end.

    You can see everyone one last time before they head home, and you have one more excuse to wear white. It’s a great way to end the celebration. It’s kind of like a closing ceremony, but with mimosas.

    Save Your Wedding Treasures

    You want to remember your wedding day for the rest of your life, so you have to act quickly once your wedding is over if you want certain things preserved. Your bouquet needs to be saved very soon after the wedding unless you want your flowers dried. You also might want to frame your invitations or repurpose some centerpieces. 

    This is also the time that you want to get your outfits from the wedding dry cleaned. This is essential if you plan on preserving your dress in any way. Preservation should also occur as soon as possible so nothing else can damage your gown. 

     

    Post-Wedding Gear

    Post-wedding gear might seem silly to you, but you might regret not wearing it in the future. After your wedding is prime time for the “Mr. & Mrs.” mugs, t-shirts, sweatshirts, and all that good stuff. You don’t have a long time in which you can wear it, so take the opportunity now before a few months go by and you’re no longer fresh newlyweds. 

    Add the matching shirts to your honeymoon packing list too.  

    Write Everything Down

    You probably gave your guests an opportunity to share their memories of your big day at your wedding or on social media. You can look at your wedding hashtag for their memories, but you should keep track of yours too. Take a journal and write down all of the memories and stand-out moments of the night. 

    Write out all of those moments with as much detail as possible. Write about what you saw, heard, touched, tasted, and even smelled. Most importantly, write down how you felt. Those are the things that you’ll forget as time passes, but if you write them down while they’re still fresh, you’ll have them forever. 

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    Enjoy Your New Title As Husband And Wife

    Finally, it’s time to revel in your newlywed status. Enjoy the time and attention you’re getting. Take advantage of all that people offer you when they hear you just got married. This is your time to shine, and you and your new spouse deserve to bask in the limelight. 

    Make sure you take photos. Have no shame in asking others to take pictures of you and your spouse on your honeymoon and pay for the one’s resorts and amusement parks take of you. You’ll want more than selfies together. In a few years from now, you’ll thank yourself for taking all of these steps after your wedding.

     

  • The Best Road Trip Destinations In America

    The Best Road Trip Destinations In America

    Road trips are booming in popularity lately, and it’s no secret why. You’re able to see so many new and different sites and places when you drive through them. Flying is convenient, but you’re missing so much by soaring over these places instead of stopping to enjoy them. 

    No matter where you are driving in the country, there are things to see and places to experience. Road trips are one of the best ways to make memories. Hopefully, this list will inspire you to start planning one today! 

     

    Natural Wonders

    The number one thing people want to see when they’re on a road trip is the natural wonders. The United States is filled with parks, waterfalls, and natural features you have to see to believe. Pictures won’t do these places justice. You have to get in your car and experience them yourself. 

    Lake Tahoe

    Lake Tahoe, Nevada, has the clearest blue water that you can imagine. You can find this lake at the bottom of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Can you imagine what it’s like to look up at the mountains while swimming in this lake? If you want the best look at the lake itself, you’ll have to visit Emerald Bay. That’s where you can take in the magnitude of Lake Tahoe. 

    Depending on what time of year you visit, you can go camping, hiking, and swimming. Since the area is so popular, consider going in the spring or fall during its offseason. The waterfalls surrounding the lake are magnificent in the spring, and the changing leaves in the fall will add an extra flair to your trip. If you have to go in the summer, get there early in the morning so you can enjoy it before the crowd arrives. 

     

    Havasupai In Arizona 

    Havasupai is home to an absolutely dazzling waterfall. It’s an up-and-coming favorite for adventurers and backpackers. You can find it right next to the Grand Canyon, so if you’re visiting the area anyway, you might as well stop by! It is a ten-mile hike that’s not made for the faint of heart, but it’s well worth it. 

    You’ll need a permit and a bit of experience backpacking, but as long as you take a few shorter backpacking first, you’ll be all set. When you go, there are several different waterfalls you can visit. If you want the real show stopper, you can hike a bit further and find the Confluence. That’s where the bright blue water of the falls meets the brown water from the river. 

    Must-See Museums

    When you’re traveling, museums are a great way to have a relaxed day. Whether it’s an art, history, or any other type of museum, you’re always going to learn something new. You’re traveling to experience new things, and there’s no better way to do that than going to a museum. Plus, it’s the perfect opportunity to stretch your legs after a long drive.  

    Museum Of Modern Art

    If you’re road-tripping on the East Coast, chances are you’re stopping in NYC. Who wouldn’t? It’s one of the best destinations on the planet, and it has something everyone can enjoy. This city hosts the MoMA, one of the best modern art museums in the world. 

    You’ll be able to see famous and timeless pieces of art that you may never be able to see again. Take your time and explore this museum. You won’t want to miss a single thing. If you’re lucky, you’ll show up on a day when they are having a live concert! 

    Art Institute Of Chicago

    Unlike MoMA, the Art Institute of Chicago holds more than modern art. As a visitor, you can enjoy contemporary art, ancient art, and various preserved works. This museum has something everyone can appreciate. 

    You’ll also have the privilege of being able to see some of Picasso’s original artwork. Take a good look; it’s the only place you’ll find those original pieces. You should also check to see if they are showing any special exhibits. You won’t want to miss that! 

    The SPAM Museum

    This is a fun one. In Minnesota, there is a museum completely centered around the canned meat, SPAM. This museum is for those who like attractions that are off the beaten path. It might not be for everyone, but it looks like so much fun!

    You can learn about the history of SPAM, or you can find out what your height is in cans of SPAM. There are tons of funny photo opportunities, and admission is free. Although, you should take a look in their gift shop. That’s where you can find magnets, keychains, and all the different flavors of SPAM that could include a pumpkin spice SPAM!

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    Human-Made Sites

    Not all roadside attractions are museums or waterfalls. Some of the best and most interesting attractions are human-made and designed to be tourist attractions. They can be cool, and some can be weird, but these two are great stops on an ultimate road trip. 

    Bishop Castle In Colorado 

    About 60 years ago, Jim Bishop started building Bishop Castle. There’s nothing else like this castle in the United States and maybe the world. It has all the feeling of an antique European castle, but it’s not even a century old! 

    There is modern stained glass, but there’s also an ax stuck in the middle of the floor. Take a stroll on one of the two catwalks, or climb to the top of all four of the castle’s towers. There are so many secrets to discover in this castle; you could easily spend the whole day there.

    Lucy The Elephant 

    Lucy is a six-story high elephant found in New Jersey. Built in 1881, it’s the first-ever roadside attraction. After surviving hurricanes and weathering hundreds of storms, Lucy is now a historical landmark. Visting is free, but you need a ticket if you want to climb all six stories and see the view from the top. Don’t miss your chance to see an elephant-sized piece of history. 

     

    Start Planning Your Road Trip Now 

    It’s never too early to start planning for a road trip! Set your days off for work, make your schedule, and set your budget. Road trips are one of the most fun and most affordable vacations out there. There is no downside!

  • Who You Should And Shouldn’t Invite To Your Wedding?

    Who You Should And Shouldn’t Invite To Your Wedding?

    Before we start, you probably need a reminder about your wedding. As you plan, put down deposits, and decide who you should invite to your wedding, it becomes easier and easier for your wedding to feel like a party for everyone else. Everyone has an opinion, and they want their ideas to be a part of your big day, but it’s not their opinions that matter.

    Sure, take your family and bridal party’s opinions into consideration, but don’t forget that this is your day. The only people who have the final say are you and your fiancé. This is your wedding, and you should only invite the people you want there. 

    If you’re having a more traditional wedding with a formal guest list, you probably have a good idea of who you’re going to invite. AKA, you’re going to invite everyone you’ve ever met, especially if you’re related to them. 

    For the bride who doesn’t want to invite every single distant cousin, you’re probably looking for guidance on how to trim your guest list. It’s tough work, but here are a few guidelines to help you finalize your invitations. 

     

    Where To Start

    Start from the basics. Whether from family, friends, or work, how you know them will change if you decide to invite them. Most people are more likely to invite distant family than they are to invite a friend they haven’t seen in years. 

    Then comes the challenging part. You have to be honest with yourself. Figure out how close you are to each person on your list. If you haven’t spoken to them in the past six months to a year, chances are you won’t miss them at your wedding. 

    Family members who call your parents, but not you, also shouldn’t be invited. If you don’t have a personal relationship with them, there’s no point in inviting them to your wedding. You can take anyone who had a wedding and didn’t invite you off the list. You are officially under no obligation to invite them if they didn’t invite you to theirs. 

    You can determine what friends and co-workers to invite, but when you’re unsure about what to do with someone in the family, ask your parents and in-laws. The final decision is yours, but when it comes to family, their opinion can be valuable. 

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    Whittle Down Your List A Bit More

    As your making the final cuts, it’s time to ask yourself the big question. Will this person make your wedding day better or worse? We all have family members that start drama or friends who party too hard. You have to decide if the possible stress of having them there is worth inviting them to your wedding.

    Maybe this person will make your wedding more memorable. If they make it memorable, make sure it’s in a positive way. Don’t take someone off your guest list if you’re going to regret not having them there. The regret will be worse than just biting the bullet and inviting them. 

    The final question when deciding who to invite to your wedding is if you can afford it. Every plate is incredibly expensive, and the price will soar as you include more people. Will their presence at your wedding be worth the money it costs to have them there? Weddings are expensive enough already, so cut the people you don’t want there and get a photo booth instead. 

     

    How To Say “No Kids”

    If you’re desperate to cut your list, having a kid-free wedding is a great place to start. Unfortunately, it can be a sore spot for a lot of people. Whether you want children at the wedding or not is your business. Some weddings can be kid-friendly, but most of the time, kids won’t enjoy it, and they’ll have to leave early with their parents when it’s their bedtime. 

    When having a kid-free wedding, you need to choose a cut-off age. It could be 13, 18, or 21 years old. Sometimes, the best course of action is to make your wedding 21 and up. Whenever there is an open bar, there is some liability. Keeping it 21 and up will eliminate that problem.  

    Once you’ve chosen to have a kid-free wedding, there are a few ways to signal that you didn’t invite children on the invitations. First, you will want to be very specific when writing out the envelopes. Only include the names of the people who are invited to your wedding. Don’t write “The Jones Family” because it can imply that the kids can come too. 

    On the RSVP card, in the spot where they can put how many people will be attending, write out how many people are invited. So when they look at the RSVP card, it says “out of two.” This will make it clear that only the two people on the envelope are invited to the wedding. 

    On the invitation, you can casually include the term “Adults Only Reception.” This tactic is best if you want the kids close to you at the ceremony but not at the party. This is also where a little white lie won’t hurt anyone. If someone gets angry, blame it on limited availability or the venue’s open bar policy. 

    It’s also worth mentioning that kid-free doesn’t have to be completely kid-free. If you have a flower girl, ring bearer, they can come if you want them to. If you have kids or teens that you’re very close within your family, feel free to invite them and have them be the exception. This is your wedding, and you make the rules.

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    The Final Cut

    Have a set number of people that you will invite to your wedding and stick to it! This will help cut your list down and keep your wedding on a budget. Get your priorities straight and stay firm on your decisions. Not everyone will be happy with your final decisions, but as long as you and your fiancé are satisfied with the guest list, it doesn’t matter what anyone else thinks.