Category: Spring

Tips for Safe Home Grilling

June 23, 2016MBEhleAdvice, Cookout, Food, Grilling, Recipes, Spring, Summer

Millions of grilling enthusiasts take to their backyards each year to cook delicious foods over an open flame. Grilling is embedded in the history of many cultures, and to this day many people feel nothing beats the savory flavor characteristic of grilled meats, poultry, seafood, and vegetables.

Although many people safely enjoy outdoor barbecues every day, accidents can happen. According to the U.S. Fire Administration, roughly 6,000 grill fires take place on residential property every year in the United States alone. Many grilling accidents can be prevented with some safety precautions and a little common sense.

When grilling, place the grill in a safe location. Grills should be at least 10 feet away from the house when they are in use. Also, keep the grill away from wooden overhangs or other structures attached to the house, such as garages and porches.

Before using a gas grill, inspect it to make sure there are no gas leaks. Ensure hoses are properly connected and that the grill looks in good repair.

Use propane and charcoal grills outdoors only. Never bring such grills into your house, even if it seems like there is ample ventilation. Potentially fatal carbon monoxide can build up quickly.

Keep children and pets away from the grill area. Grills can be knocked over easily, and kids and pets may burn themselves if they bump into a hot grill.

Clean the grill regularly. Grease and fat buildup forms in the tray below the grill and can be quite flammable. By brushing off the grates after each use and periodically removing food and grease buildup, you can prevent flare-ups that may ignite the grill.

Always tend the grill while cooking. Walking away for even a minute may lead to accidents.

Store unused propane tanks upright at all times to prevent leakage. Keep them outdoors and beyond the reach of children. Never smoke near propane cylinders and never move a lit grill.

Keep a fire extinguisher handy in the event of a flare-up. A hose may not prove effective on a grease fire.

It’s also important to emphasize food safety when grilling. Invest in a food thermometer so you can test the internal temperature of foods and prevent foodborne illnesses.

Grilling is a great and flavorful way to cook. But safety must remain a priority when grilling.

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Always Practice Summer Sun Safety

June 2, 2016MBEhleAdvice, Cookout, DIY, Healthy, Seasonal, Spring, Summer

When the weather is warm, many people take time to relax at the beach or poolside. While such relaxation can provide a welcome break from busy schedules, it’s important that men, women and children prioritize protecting their skin when spending time in the sun.

According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, basal cell carcinoma, or BCC, is the most common form of skin cancer. The American Cancer Society notes that each year there are more new cases of skin cancer in the United States than the combined incidences of cancers of the breast, prostate, lung and colon. Despite that prevalence, many people still engage in risky behaviors in the name of outdoor enjoyment. Being safe in the sun won’t take anything away from enjoyable outdoor activities, but exercising such caution will help summer revelers reduce their risk for skin cancer and other conditions.

· Know the risks of UV exposure. Sunlight is needed to engage vitamin D production in the body, but too much sun exposure can do more harm than good. Ultraviolet, or UV, rays from the sun and other sources, such as tanning beds, are the primary cause of skin cancer. Exposure also can lead to sunburns, premature aging/wrinkling and eye damage.

· Use only broad-spectrum SPF sunscreen. Look for a sunblock product that boasts an SPF of at least 30. The FDA requires any sunscreen with an SPF below 15 to carry a warning that it only protects against sunburn, not skin cancer or skin aging. Find a sunscreen that works against UVA and UVB rays as well. UVA rays are mostly responsible for contributing to skin cancer and premature aging. Reapply frequently, especially when swimming or engaging in activities that cause sweating.

· Know the difference between water-resistant and waterproof sunscreens. Manufacturers are no longer allowed to claim that their sunscreens are waterproof or sweatproof. A sunscreen may be able to repel water for a short time, but it should be reapplied when leaving the water or when spending long stretches in the water.

· Cover up whenever possible. It may seem counterintuitive in hot weather, but covering up can be beneficial to the skin and actually keep a person cooler. Wear wide-brimmed hats, long-sleeve tops and light-colored pants. Some materials are made with reflective properties, while others actually boast their own SPF.

Summer fun does not need to be threatened by overexposure to the sun. By exercising caution, everyone can spend quality time in the great outdoors all summer long.

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How to Spend More Time Outdoors

May 26, 2016MBEhleAdvice, Healthy, Lawn, Seasonal, Spring, Summer

Getting outside to enjoy the great outdoors can reduce the likelihood that a person will live a sedentary lifestyle that can negatively affect long-term health. But many adults are spending too much time indoors.

In its 2014 OUT is IN national survey, the National Recreation and Park Association found that 28 percent of adults in the United States do not spend time outside daily. The survey, conducted by Ipsos Public Affairs on behalf of the NPRA, asked 1,005 adults to share their opinions and behaviors regarding outdoor time. While 35 percent of respondents said work was getting in the way of their spending time outdoors, 39 percent said their computers, tablets, smartphones, and televisions were keeping them indoors.

Though it might be difficult to cut back on hours at the office, adults do have the capacity to cut back on their screen time. Using that newfound free time to get outdoors can pay dividends for years to come, as the National Center on Health, Physical Activity and Disability notes that the potential consequences of living a sedentary lifestyle are severe. According to the NCHPAD, one study indicated a 40 percent decrease in cancer mortality among physically active persons compared to those who were inactive. Physical activity also helps to prevent insulin resistance, which is the underlying cause of type 2 diabetes.

While you don’t need to get outdoors to be physically active, men and women who find themselves bored by workouts at the gym or at home may be more likely to embrace physical activity if they can get their exercise outdoors. The following are three great ways to spend more time enjoying all that nature has to offer.

· Take up hiking. While some hiking trails are best left to seasoned hikers, many are built for hikers of all ages and abilities. Men and women who are overweight should not be intimidated by hiking, as even the simplest trails can help them get back on a healthy track. Men and women who incorporate hiking into their regular routines can lower their risk of heart disease and improve their blood pressure and blood sugar levels. The American Hiking Society also notes that research has shown that hiking can positively affect mood by helping to combat the symptoms of stress and anxiety.

· Ride a bike to work. Adults whose homes are in close proximity to their offices may want to try riding a bike to work instead of relying on their cars or mass transportation. Cycling improves cardiovascular fitness and increases muscle strength and flexibility. In addition, the stress-relieving properties of exercise can certainly be ascribed to cycling, which may even help adults prevent stressful episodes by relieving them of the burden of sitting in rush hour traffic.

· Grow your own foods. While the cost of fruits and vegetables may not be busting your monthly budget, growing your own fruits and vegetables is a cost-effective way to find more time for the great outdoors. In addition, a study from researchers in the Netherlands suggested that gardening is better for fighting stress than reading indoors.

Nature awaits, and adults should know that some playtime in the great outdoors is not just for kids.

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How to Make Spring Projects More Eco-Friendly

March 3, 2016MBEhleAdvice, DIY, Lawn, Lawn Care, Spring

The arrival of warmer weather means different things to different people. Some anticipate opportunities for outdoor fun, while others may be considering redecorating or remodeling their homes. For the latter group, home improvement season provides a great opportunity to make homes more eco-friendly.

When planning home improvement projects, it’s best to first choose a project and then look for ways to make the project more environmentally friendly. Such an approach may not only benefit the environment, but it also may benefit homeowners’ bottom lines.

Interior decorating

Longer days and warmer temperatures often translate into wanting to freshen up the interior of a home. Heavy draperies and comforters are put away, and lighter fabrics are taken out of storage. Whenever possible, reuse or repurpose items you already have rather than purchasing new items. Longer drapes can be cut and hemmed to be used as window treatments in other rooms. Making a patchwork blanket out of old T-shirts is a crafty project that makes use of items that would otherwise be destined for landfills.

When laundering linens, skip the energy-using dryer and let items line dry in the sun and fresh air.

If you decide to purchase some new items, look for products made from sustainable or organic fabrics. Hemp and bamboo textiles have grown in popularity. Hemp and bamboo plants grow quickly, and their durability makes these materials smart choices.

When replacing items around the house, donate older items to a charitable organization.

Flowers and plants

Spring and summer call to mind beautiful blooming plants. Relying on native, sustainable plants is practical, environmentally friendly and cost-effective.

According to the National Wildlife Federation, sustainable plants are native plants. Native plants sustain local wildlife more effectively than non-native alternatives, so include native plants in your sustainable garden. Native plants also are less reliant on pesticides and herbicides to keep them healthy and viable.

Don’t forget to bring plants indoors as well. Even though you may be opening the windows more, indoor plants can filter and purify indoor air. The NASA Clean Air Study, led in association with the Associated Landscape Contractors of America, found that certain common indoor plants naturally remove toxic agents such as benzene, formaldehyde and trichloroethylene from the air. Efficient air cleaning is accomplished with at least one plant per 100 square feet of home or office space.

Proper disposal

Spring cleaning is another tradition for many families come the end of winter and dawn of spring. Many people use spring as a time to go through closets and garages to remove items they no longer use or need. In an effort to clean up fast, some people may dispose of chemical products, paints, treated lumber, and many other items in ways that can be damaging to the environment. Always learn local municipal guidelines for proper disposal of potentially harmful products. Area recycling centers may have drop-off areas for stains and paints, used motor oil and other potentially harmful products.

Before discarding something, see if it can be donated or sold. This will result in fewer items ending up in landfills.

Exercise caution outdoors as well. Runoff from cleaning products used on home siding or driveways can leach into the surrounding soil or find its way into sewage drains that ultimately direct fluids to public waterways. Choose environmentally responsible products whenever possible.

Springtime renovation and cleaning projects provide the perfect opportunity to adopt eco-friendly practices that pay dividends for years to come. TF164031

Six Innovative Ways to Indulge in Ice Cream

July 9, 2015MBEhleDIY, Recipes, Spring, Summer

Ice cream is a popular dessert that’s enjoyed across the globe. Blending the cold and the creamy, ice cream is an ideal treat on a hot day. According to IceCream.com, 87 percent of Americans have ice cream in their freezer at any given time. While Americans may enjoy their ice cream, New Zealand consumes more ice cream than any country in the world.

Historians and foodies believe Ancient Greeks enjoyed a dessert similar to ice cream as early as the 5th century B.C. Considering ice cream has been around so long, and that many cultures have created their own take on frozen treats, from gelato to sorbet to frozen yogurts, one may think there aren’t many new ways to indulge in this beloved dessert. But with a little creativity, anyone can come up with innovative ways to serve ice cream or any of its frozen cousins. The following are just a few different recipe inspirations.

1. Lightly butter flour tortillas and sprinkle them with cinnamon and sugar. Drape the tortillas over the rungs of the shelves in an oven, placing a cookie sheet underneath to catch any drips. Bake at 300 F until just crisp. Fill with your favorite ice cream for some frozen dessert tacos.

2. Create your own ice cream sandwiches from any firm cookies or dessert bars you have on hand. For example, cut two thin slices of fudge brownies. Spread softened ice cream in a complementary flavor, such as peanut butter or black cherry vanilla, in between the brownie sandwich pieces. Freeze to firm everything up and make it easier to eat.

3. Fried ice cream pairs the seemingly incompatible frozen dessert with heat. Freeze scoops of ice cream until they are solid, dip them in an egg wash and coat with crushed cookie crumbs. You can then refreeze the finished ice cream balls and have them set to fry in time for dessert.

4. Ice cream and frozen waffles make a quick dessert in a pinch. Raid the freezer for the ingredients, toast the waffles and then sandwich with ice cream. Top with fresh fruit and whipped cream, if desired.

5. Spoon your favorite cookie dough into a muffin tin and mold the dough so it lines the individual cups of the tin. Bake until firm and let cool. Use the cookie cups to make little ice cream sundae holders for parties. Their diminutive size makes them ideal for kids.

6. Whip up your own ice cream cake. Place a thin layer of any flavor cake on the bottom of a dish or pan that can be placed into the freezer. Scoop softened ice cream on top, then continue to layer as desired, finishing with ice cream as the final layer. Let freeze several hours until firmed up, then enjoy.

Ice cream can be enjoyed in cones, cups, a la mode or as part of soda floats. There is really no limit to what can be created with this popular dessert treat.

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Favorite Fair Foods

June 28, 2015MBEhleSeasonal, Spring, Summer

State and county fair season has arrived, and that means there will be rides and games galore. While many people are drawn to fairs by the entertainment, just as many are willing to stand in line for the unique and tasty foods that seem to embody fair and carnival fun.

If it can be served on a stick or deep fried, chances are you can find it at a fair. Everything from chocolate-dipped bacon to deep-fried butter may turn up on fair stand menus. The following are some of the more coveted foods revelers can expect to find at their local fairs and carnivals.

· Funnel cake: Funnel cake and it’s close cousin, zeppole, have long been fair favorites. Topped with powdered sugar, funnel cakes can be pulled apart and shared with others.

· Corn dogs: Corn dogs are essentially hot dogs on a stick that have been covered in cornmeal and fried. Like funnel cakes, corn dogs have become so synonymous with fairs and carnivals that few people have ever enjoyed them anywhere outside of their local fairgrounds.

· French fries: French fries are a favorite at fairs, and carnival-goers can choose from savory shoestrings to hearty steak-cut potato chunks.

· Cotton candy: What fair would be complete without a cotton candy vendor? Cotton candy is made by heating up granulated sugar until it is liquified enough to be blown into thin threads. Those threads are collected and wound into a sweet treat that is loved by kids and adults alike.

· Pie: Fair-goers are likely to happen upon a pie-eating contest or pie-tasting tent. Many prefer to indulge in a piece of pie while at the fair, preferring such treats to sweeter, heavier desserts.

· Corn on the cob: Corn on the cob is proof that carnivals and fairs provide some healthy fare for customers in addition to the many decadent treats on display. Corn on the cob is most popular in corn-producing areas and can be the ideal complement to burgers and other fair foods.

· Anything on a stick: Each year fair vendors experiment with culinary oddities that can be served on a stick. One day it may be skewered pork chops and the next a sleeve of cookies. Those who want the full fair experience should consider trying something served on a stick. TF157328

Summertime Health & Beauty Tips

June 16, 2015MBEhleAdvice, DIY, Healthy, Spring, Summer

Warm weather invites all types of relaxing thoughts and behaviors. People embrace various ways of relaxing in the summer, from choosing lightweight clothes to spending more time on recreational pursuits to streamlining certain beauty practices.

Summer beauty routines may require minor changes to accommodate some of the environmental effects of hot weather and humidity. Consider the following tips to look and feel your best when the mercury rises.

· Try tinted moisturizer. A carefree, breezy look often means not being weighed down by a lot of makeup. It may be possible to skip foundation and rely only on concealer to cover up small blemishes or alleviate dark circles under the eyes. Another option to try is tinted moisturizer, which can keep skin supple and offer a light amount of color to even out pigment. BB creams also can provide you with an all-in-one beauty product, as such creams frequently contain sunscreen, color tinting and anti-aging ingredients.

· Get a healthier glow. Many people equate health and vitality to tan skin. However, spending time outdoors in the sun or using indoor tanning beds that expose you to UV rays can increase your risk of skin cancer, including dangerous melanoma. The American Cancer Society says melanoma will account for more than 73,000 cases of invasive skin cancer in 2015. Melanoma accounts for more than 9,900 of the roughly 13,000 skin cancer deaths each year. Sunless tanners and bronzers can give skin that sun-kissed look without the downside of exposure to UV rays. Those who must go out in the sun should wear a wide-brimmed hat and limit their exposure between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when the sun’s rays are at their strongest.

· Don’t fight the elements. Many people go to great lengths to change what nature gave them. For example, those with curly hair will spend hours with straightening irons or special serums. Try to embrace the elements and your natural hair texture this summer. Use a product to keep frizz away and let hair air dry. Wavy, beach-inspired hair screams summer and can give you that carefree look.

· Protect hair and skin. Relaxing in the summertime sun does not mean you should forgo protection. Remember to always apply sunblock to all parts of your body. Some hair products contain sunblock to protect the scalp, and men who shave their heads or are naturally balding should be diligent about applying sunblock to the top of their heads. Don’t forget to apply sunblock to the tops of your feet and your ears.

· Rinse hair after swimming. Chlorinated water and even saltwater can affect the color and texture of your hair. Those who color their hair may find frequent laps in the pool can change the hue of their hair or prevent color from lasting as long as it once did. Wet hair before going in the pool, and rinse out salt and chemicals afterward. A small application of leave-in conditioner before entering the water can help seal the hair cuticle and keep chemicals from being absorbed.

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Natural Seasonal Allergy Cures

April 21, 2015MBEhleAdvice, Healthy, Seasonal, Spring, Summer

The arrival of warmer weather changes the landscape completely. Animals come out of hiding and hibernation while trees and flowers bloom anew. The spring season can be an exciting time for naturalists and lovers of the great outdoors because they can immerse themselves in the sights, sounds and smells of nature. But for many people, spring also marks the start of allergy season and spending time outdoors can become downright uncomfortable for them.

The American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology says nasal allergies affect approximately 50 million people in the United States. Allergic diseases, including asthma, are the fifth most prevalent chronic diseases among people of all ages and the third most common in children. Allergic rhinitis, or hay fever, can occur in spring, summer and/or early fall. People who experience hay fever often can attribute their symptoms to sensitivity to pollens from trees, grasses, weeds, or airborne mold spores.

No two allergy sufferers are alike, so medications that may work for one person may be only mildly effective for another. Many medications can cause side effects, which may be just as frustrating as the initial allergy symptoms. Treatments may target sneezing and itching but fail to clear up congestion. Drowsiness, dry mouth and nasal irritation may be side effects of common allergy drugs.

People who want to avoid allergy medication can look to natural remedies to alleviate their symptoms. Whether used alone or in concert with traditional medicine, these remedies may make spending time outdoors more pleasant.

· Try probiotics. Probiotics, those friendly bacteria that reside in the digestive system, can do more than just treat an upset stomach. Naturopathic doctors say that probiotics also can influence the immune system and may help strengthen its response to common allergens. Since probiotics are good for replenishing healthy bacteria in the body anyway, many people may want to keep taking them once their allergy symptoms have come and gone.

· Use neti pots or saline sprays. A small amount of saltwater can rinse away allergens, such as pollen, that get lodged in the nose. These rinses also can help clear up congestion and flush out any other irritants.

· Load up on omega-3s. A German study published in the journal Allergy found that participants who ate foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids were less likely to suffer allergy symptoms than those who didn’t regularly eat these foods. Omega-3s can help fight inflammation. Drinking more fluids and using spices in cooking can help flush out allergens as well.

· Don’t forget vitamin C. Vitamin C is an immune-system booster and may help prevent the formation of histamine in the body, a substance responsible for many allergy symptoms.

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Treating Weather-Related Joint Pain

April 17, 2015MBEhleAdvice, Healthy, Seasonal, Spring, Summer

Early spring is often marked by wind and rain that precedes the more welcoming warmth synonymous with late spring and summer.

Rainy, damp conditions may be great for homeowners looking to revitalize their lawns and gardens, but such conditions can wreak havoc on achy joints, especially for those who experience arthritis. Although there is no concrete proof to link aching joints and muscles with damp weather, rheumatologists are often asked why achy joints and muscles tend to ache that much more in damp weather.

Dropping barometric pressure, which occurs when rain is on the horizon, may cause tissues to swell. Swelling tissues in already inflamed joints can add to pain, especially if these tissues push into nerves and muscles in the area. According to a survey published in the journal Pain, two-thirds of people living with chronic joint pain believe there is a link between their pain and weather changes. Changes in humidity and temperature also may play a role, affecting pressure all over the body. Joint pain may not be the only effect, as some people get headaches as well.

While spring may be a painful time of year for sufferers of joint pain, there are steps such men and women can take to alleviate some of those aches. When rainy or cooler temperatures loom, try these ideas.

· See your doctor. If your pain is growing more severe, consult with your doctor, who may be able to develop a plan that helps you deal with the changing seasons more comfortably. Doctors may suggest chiropractic manipulation, or physical therapy or prescribe pain medications.

· Keep the body warm. Cold limbs and joints may be more prone to stiffness and pain. Dress in layers and use heating pads to combat chilly temperatures.

· Exercise painful joints. Rely on low-impact exercises, such as walking or swimming, to loosen up stiffness in the body. Loosening up and stretching before any intense workouts is recommended.

Rainy weather may be in the forecast, and that can mean increased pain for those with achy joints. Working with a medical professional can help take the “ouch” out of seasonal changes.

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Things to Consider before Picking a Summer Camp

April 13, 2015MBEhleAdvice, Spring, Summer

Though this time of year does not often elicit images of youngsters building campfires or playing games in the pool, now is a great time for parents to start thinking about summer camps for their kids.

Summer camp is often something kids look forward to, and something they will fondly recall long after they reach adulthood. For many kids, summer camp provides a first taste of independence, as youngsters spend significant time away from home without their parents for the first time in their lives. But as great an experience as summer camp can be for youngsters, it can be just as difficult an experience if parents don’t find the right fit for their children. That’s why it behooves parents to start thinking about summer camps for their kids in winter, beforecamps start filling out their rosters, which tends to happen in early spring. The following are a few things parents should take into consideration when seeking a summer camp for their kids.

Staff

The right summer camp staff can make all the difference. Many children are understandably shy when arriving at a summer camp, as their friends from back home might not be joining them. That can make kids hesitant to participate in activities or less enthusiastic about those activities. But a good staff will know how to make kids feel welcome, which should help them come out of their shells and make the most of their summer campexperiences. The quality of staffs can vary significantly depending on the camp, so it’s important that parents ask camprepresentatives about their staffs before making any commitments. Ask how long the staff has been together and the types of training new and even veteran staff members undergo before the start of camp season? Does the training include first aid and emergency medical training and certification?

It’s also good to ask about the vetting process the camp employs before hiring new staff, including the extent of its background checks. Are criminal background checks conducted? How many references must potential staff members supply to be considered for employment? A good camp will be forthcoming with answers to all of your questions, so eliminate those that appear hesitant to share information about their staffs.

A day in the life

When vetting camps for kids, parents should ask what a typical day is like once the season hits full swing. Many parents want their youngsters to have a well-rounded experience, while others might want their kids to attend a more specialized camp, whether it’s a sports camp focusing on a particular sport or a music campdevoted to helping kids become better musicians. Regardless of the type of camp parents are considering for their kids, they should ask about what daily life at the camp is like. Ask to see schedules and how strictly camps adhere to those schedules. When considering specialized camps, ask the staff representative if kids will have the chance to simply have a little fun and which types of recreational activities are planned to give kids a break from what are often rigorous schedules.

Camp goals

Another thing parents must consider before choosing a summercamp for their kids is the goals of each individual camp. A campshould be dedicated to ensuring kids have fun, even when kids are attending more specialized camps that tend to be more strict. In addition, parents should look for a camp that wants its attendees to foster relationships with their fellow campers. Camp can be lonely for some youngsters, especially those attending summercamp for the first time, but a summer camp that strives to promote friendship among its campers can reduce, if not eliminate, any feelings of homesickness.

Late winter is when parents should start looking at summercamps for their kids, and there are a host of factors moms and dads should take into consideration during the vetting process to ensure their youngsters have as much fun as possible.

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