Family * Travel * Food

How Wildlife Control Works At Terminix

Having unwanted animal guests in your house is not only annoying, but can also be dangerous to you, your family, and your home. Wild animals can carry diseases, contaminate your food, and even cause physical damage to your home’s foundation and wiring. If you are dealing with wildlife infestation, the professionals at Terminix can help. Here is how wildlife pest control San Antonio works with Terminix:


Wildlife Control Near Me: Terminix has been in business for nearly a century and has a variety of locations throughout the United States and Canada. There is a good chance that Terminix will have trained professionals in your area.

The Initial Visit: A Terminix professional will come to your home to investigate and assess the problem to create a plan of action. The plan may vary depending on the size of your residence and the nature of the pests. If you suspect pests in your home, you can call Terminix and have your home inspected free of charge.

The Treatment Plan: After the initial visit, your Terminix professional will proceed to trap and remove unwanted wildlife from your home. Terminix hires a variety of experts to help deal with common pests like squirrels and skunks, as well as unique pests that may have accidentally been introduced in your area.

Prevent Future Infestations: In addition to removing the pests, your Terminix professional will help secure your home from future invaders. If you live in an area where wildlife pests are a common nuisance, consider calling in a Terminix professional to help secure your home from invaders and stop infestations before they start.  Some examples of “pest security” include sealing crawl spaces and minimizing gaps in pipe openings.

Whether you have an unwanted wild animal in your home, or are looking to prevent a future invasion, the professionals at Terminix can help keep your home safe from animal intruders.
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It's Our Anniversary!

Another year has gone by, and today we celebrate 24 years of marriage. It really is so hard to believe that it has been that long since the day we said I do. Marriage isn't the easiest thing, but I feel like it gets sweeter with time. This last year was a bit a test. I lost both of my parents, and felt like I wasn't fully present most of the time. My sweet husband has been so supportive and definitely put me first. I guess in reality, that's how marriage is supposed to work. You have to be strong when the other is weak.

I am thankful to have someone to catch me when I fall, and that I can do the same right back. You don't question anything, you are just there. I tell younger or newer couples to never give up on each other. I'm sure that's easier said than done, but I believe in putting in the work. So many of the arguments that couples have can be worked out. I wish for everyone to have the kind of marriage that I have. It's a wonderful feeling knowing that I don't have to face anything alone.
Happy Anniversary to my wonderful husband and best friend of 24 years. Cheers!
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Celebrate Entenmann’s® 120th Birthday! (Giveaway)

Today's post is sponsored by Entenmann’s®. The opinions expressed are my own and do not reflect the opinions of Entenmann’s®. 

**CLOSED**- Winner is the attic girl.

I am fairly certain that almost everyone has, at one time or another, enjoyed a snack cake or treat from the well-known brand Entenmann's®. From the delicious danish pastries, to the donuts, poundcake or mini cakes, Entenmann's® is all about quality. My family's favorites range from the Little Bites, cheese danish, and chocolate frosted donuts. Whenever they are on sale, I stock up. It's hard to believe that Entenmann's is celebrating its 120th birthday! Yep, they have been around that long!


To celebrate, Entenmann’s® invites fans to enter the “I Sing on the Cake” national sweepstakes for a chance to win sweet prizes.
Prizes include:

  • An Ultimate Birthday party featuring a performance from the world-famous Harlem Globetrotters for the winner’s friends and family
  • Four days and three nights of family fun in New York City with four Grandstand Tickets to the 2018 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade
  • 120 winners will receive free Entenmann’s® for a year
  • 3,000 winners will receive a coupon for one free Entenmann’s® product

From now until March 31, fans can enter, and see official rules at,  www.entenmanns120birthday.com.


To receive a second entry and to make the milestone even more memorable, fans are invited to sing “Happy Birthday” to Entenmann’s® on Instagram or Twitter using #entenmanns120 and #promotion or uploading directly onto the Entenmann’s® Facebook page.

For every video submitted, Entenmann’s® will donate $1 to the Give A Note Foundation, up to $10,000, to share the gift of music with children across the country.

Look for information about the “I Sing on the Cake” sweepstakes on specially marked packages of Entenmann’s® fan-favorites including Entenmann’s® Donuts, Entenmann’s® Little Bites® and Entenmann’s® Minis Golden Cakes.


We hope you enter to win one of the many great prizes. Just for our Mom Files readers, we have a sweet giveaway of our own. One lucky person will win a prize pack that includes a $25 digital Visa gift card and (3) coupons, each valid for a free Entenmann’s® product. Enter below:
a Rafflecopter giveaway
This giveaway is open to U.S. Residents only and ends on February 5, 2018. Must follow rules in Rafflecopter. One winner will be chosen randomly. Mom Files is not responsible for any lost or stolen prizes. Good luck!
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Things To Do In Orlando That Are Cheaper Than Theme Parks

Are you considering a trip to the Central Florida/Orlando, Florida area this coming Spring Break? You might want to check out these great ideas for places to visit and things to do that won't break the bank they way the theme parks can easily do. 


SAVE MORE AND DO MORE DURING SPRING BREAK IN ORLANDO NORTH

When planning a Spring Break getaway to the Central Florida theme parks you can save more and double the fun by selecting lodgings and add-on recreation in “Orlando North, Seminole County.”  Here your guestroom averages 40% less than those by the attractions, all hotels offer free parking, there are no long restaurant waits, and you're a short drive away from: 
  • Walt Disney World® - 45 minutes
  • Universal Orlando® - 30 minutes
  • Sea World® - 30 minutes
  • Wet ‘N Wild® - 30 minutes
  • Kennedy Space Center - 60 minutes
  • Daytona Beach - 45 minutes
  • Downtown Orlando - 20 minutes

And throughout Orlando North Seminole County there’s lots of family-friendly fun that’s a fractional cost of a day at the theme parks:
  • At Planet Obstacle, kid-friendly activities include a kids’ ninja course, trampolines, bungees, ball pits and bumper cars, while adults can enjoy an aerial ropes course, an extreme zip-line, an adult ninja course, a giant rock-climbing wall and more. Planet Obstacle, 1150 Emma Oaks Trail, Lake Mary, FL. http://planetobstacle.com
  • Little girls will love Judy’s Dolls Middleton Newborn Nursery Adoption Center, with an adoption ceremony providing a chance to bond with her new infant baby doll, pick out its first outfit and feel the joy, of becoming a new “parent.” Judy’s Dolls, 280 W. Warren Ave. Longwood, FL. https://judysdolls.com/.  
  • Stargazing and interactive shows at the Emil Buehler Planetarium at Seminole State College in Sanford. For info on planetarium events visit Facebook.com/SeminolePlanet.
  • U-Pick Strawberries at Pappy’s Patch. 700 Florida Ave., Oviedo, FL. Check out their Facebook page: Pappys-Patch-U-Pick-Strawberries.
  • Reach new heights at the Aiguille Rock Climbing Center. 999 Charles St., Longwood, FL. http://www.aiguille.com/
  • Artistic talents emerge at Hot Pots, where kids paint and decorate their own ceramics, from piggy banks to figurines, cups, vases and more. Hot Pots, 1071 WP Ball Blvd., Sanford, FL. http://www.hotpotssanford.com/
  • Enjoy a thrilling airboat ride with Black Hammock Adventures, on Lake Jesup and learn about the eco system and the birds and beasts who call it home. 2356 Black Hammock Fish Camp Rd., Oviedo, FL. www.blackhammockairboatrides.com
  • Cool down at Wekiva Island where the river is a constant 72 degrees. Swim, canoe, kayak, paddleboard, volleyball, fish or just plain relax. Wekiva Island, 1014 Miami Springs Rd., Longwood, FL http://wekivaisland.com/
  • Get up close and personal with wildlife at the Central Florida Zoo and Botanical Gardens, where you can even participate in giraffe feedings. Also at the zoo is ZOOm Air Adventures a zip line adventure course that allows guests to explore perfect natural habitats from an animal’s perspective—in the air traveling from tree to tree by zip lines and suspended rope bridges. 3755 US 17, Sanford, FL. www.centralfloridazoo.org.
  • Enjoy the playground and watch youth, collegiate and non-professional teams playing at the 102-acre Boombah Sports Complex at Seminole County. 3450 E. Lake Mary Blvd., Sanford, FL. www.PlayOrlandoNorth.com.
  • Seminole County is also home to some of Florida’s best natural attractions, including the Wekiva River, one of only two National & Wild Scenic Rivers in the entire state of Florida, the St. Johns River, Wekiva Springs State Park and Lake Jesup to name just a few. With more than 30 parks and preserves the area is a favorite destination for hiking, biking, bird watching, wildlife study, nature photography and more. There’s something for everyone whether you are a nature lover or adventure seeker.

About Orlando North, Seminole County:
A short drive from all the major attractions of Central Florida and home to Orlando Sanford International Airport, Orlando North, Seminole County offers first-rate accommodations for less, varied meeting & event venues, and diverse dining and shopping in its charming communities. Known as “Orlando’s Natural Oasis,” the destination offers visitors a wide array of thrilling outdoor activities from an aerial adventure course with zip lining to paddling alongside manatees in clear freshwater springs and rivers. Long known as an exciting and affordable meetings/groups destination, Orlando North also offers an array of sports and training facilities, including the new 102-acre Seminole County Sports Complex. For destination information call 1-800-800-7832 or 407-665-2900 or visit www.DoOrlandoNorth.com.
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Remington College Columbia Campus Offers 50% Off One Salon Service

If you live in Columbia, South Carolina or the surrounding area, you might want to check this out.

Love fills the air in February and Remington College hopes to help Columbia area residents fall in love with their look.

The Salon at Remington College Columbia Campus is offering 50-percent off of one service during the month of February.(1)


Remington College’s Cosmetology Diploma program teaches students the art of hair, skin and nail care through traditional classroom instruction and hands-on training in the Remington College School of Cosmetology, which allows students to work with real clients.

Some of the services offered in the Salon include:(2)


  • Cuts (including shampoo and conditioner), starting at $11
  • Thermal Style, starting at $12
  • Shampoo and Style (includes shampoo and conditioner), starting at $11
  • Deep Conditioning Service, starting at $6
  • Chemical Services, starting at $27
  • Hair Color, starting at $27
  • Hair Lightening (includes finishing style), starting at $27
  • Specialty Styles, starting at $22
  • Plain Manicure, starting at $8
  • Pedicure, starting at $11
  • Skin Care and Hair Removal, starting at $6
  • Facial – Plain, starting at $16
  • Machine Facial, starting at $21
  • Eyebrow or Facial Wax, starting at $6
  • Children’s Cut, starting at $6

The Salon at Remington is located at 607 Bush River Road, Columbia, SC 29210. Appointments are recommended. To schedule an appointment, call 803-214-9062.


The salon is open:

Monday: 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Wednesday: 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Friday: 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. to 2 p.m.
Saturday: Call ahead for availability

For more on the Remington College Cosmetology Program, visit remingtoncosmo.com or call 1-800-448-6405.

(1) Available through February 28, 2018. First come, first serve. Appointments are recommended. Cannot be combined with any other offer.(2) Prices are base prices and may vary depending on length and style. Services and/or prices are subject to change.

About Remington College: Non-profit Remington College, headquartered in Lake Mary, FL operates 16 college campuses throughout the United States offering career focused diploma, bachelor and associate degree programs in a variety of career fields. For more information, please visit remingtoncollege.edu. For the latest news about Remington College, visit facebook.com/remingtoncollege. Remington College does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs and other school administered programs.
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January Ipsy Glam Bag Review #IpsyGameFace

Every month I look forward to receiving my Ipsy Glam Bag in the mail. I subscribed about two years ago, and I'm hooked! I tell everyone that it is the best $10 I spend. You get a cute bag, 5 beauty products, and FREE shipping for ten bucks! I can easily spend $10 on dumb stuff, so this makes good sense. Also, makeup. Over time I have received products from some of my favorite brands like: Tarte, Smashbox, Urban Decay, Bare Minerals, Caked Makeup, and Doucce to name a few. 

My glam bag subscription has become a part of my self-care routine, and it's nice to look forward to something that is just for me. My older daughter has her own subscription and often gets different products than I do. We have so much fun sorting through our goodies and sometimes trade items. I am digging the January "Game Face" themed bag. The bag itself it so cute. It has a sporty, retro feel. 

Inside the bag: 

  • NYX Professional Lip Lingerie in Beauty Mark- goes on creamy with a matte finish. I do love the color, but it has a slight sticky feel initially. Once it wears in, it feels a whole lot better. 
  • CIATÉ LONDO Fierce Flicks Liquid Eyeliner- I actually gave this to my younger daughter because I have tons of liquid liners already. This one is supposed to dry quickly and not smudge. Perfect for the cat eye look. 
  • BellaPierre Cosmetics StayPut Brow Gel in Licorice- I love the way it is packaged. The brush is on the top of handle and the product is in a jar on the bottom. I tried it and don't really care for it. The gel didn't apply as well as my normal brow makeup. I gave it to my older daughter and she seems to really like it. 
  • BeFine Skin Care Exfoliating Cleanser- made with all-natural ingredients brown sugar, almond, and oats. It leaves your skin crazy smooth, and soft. It also moisturizes. I will definitely be buying this in a full-size tube. 
  • BioRepublic Skincare Sheet Masks- I got two: Aloe Rescue & Pomegranate Crush. I haven't tried them yet, but the product description makes them sound promising. Here are the details: These eco-friendly masks are 100% biodegradable. Aloe Rescue has phytocollagen, aloe vera extract, and Vitamin E to soothe and moisturize dry skin. Pomegranate Crush is loaded with antioxidant-packed pomegranate extract and vitamin E to hydrate, brighten, and smooth *all* skin types.



I am happy with my January glam bag overall. Even though I couldn't use all of the products myself, my daughters were able to. It makes it worth it. I can't wait to see what I get in February. If you are interested in receiving your own monthly Ipsy Glam Bag, you can use my sign-up link. I will get 250 points for every sign-up I receive to use towards products. If you become a subscriber, you can refer friends and get points too! They add up quickly since you get more points if you do a quick review on the Ipsy site. So far I have cashed in so many points that gave me around 6 freebies. 


Ipsy is a great way to try products out before you consider buying the full size. Do you have a favorite monthly beauty subscription? I'd love to know! 
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Birth Injuries To Baby: What You Could Do About It Legally (Guest Post)

Disclaimer: the following information presented in this article serves only as a general guideline as to what one may experience legally following birth injuries to a baby. If you have further questions, need clarification, or find yourself in this unfortunate situation, it is recommended that you seek the services of an attorney familiar with these types of cases.

Having a baby is one of the most beautiful things in the world. No words can describe the feeling you’d get when you first hold your baby in your arms. However, all your dreams and aspirations for your child would get crushed if you’d find out that he/she is ill-equipped for the rest of his/her life. And to make things worse, you’ll discover that this is caused by someone who you trusted to deliver your child safely into this world. But, there’s no point in letting yourself become devoured by heartache and sorrow. Instead, you should get up and fight for your baby who can’t.

 
So, what could you do about your child’s birth injury legally?

1. Gather information.

You need to gather information as this can help you file your case and claim for compensation.

The information you should gather:

  • About your healthcare provider (if there are any previous lawsuits against him/her)
  • Names, phone numbers, and addresses of people present during your delivery
  • Medical procedures performed on you (such as ultrasound and maternal serum tests)
  • Medications you took before and after conceiving (if there are any)
  • Medical devices used

Make sure to keep all of this information. Don’t show this to anyone, unless your lawyer tells you to do so.

2. Get a second opinion.

As soon as you noticed your baby’s injury, you should immediately have him/her checked. Go to a different pediatrician, to make sure that you get an unbiased opinion. Ask him/her what’s wrong with your baby and if there’s something that you can do to correct it.

Make sure to take down notes of everything that the physician tells you, as you can use this evidence later on.

3. Hire a birth injury lawyer.

Look for a lawyer who can help you file for compensation for your child. He/she must be experienced in these kinds of cases.

Your lawyer can help you recover for the following damages:

  • Medical expenses
  • Physical and emotional distress
  • Healthcare costs
  • Loss of companionship and enjoyment
  • Lost wages

You should remember that when talking to your lawyer, you should be honest at all times. Show him/her every piece of evidence you have and information you’ve gathered.

4. File your notice of intent to sue.

If you’re filing a lawsuit against anyone, you would be required to file a Notice of Intent to File a Lawsuit first. This will give you and the defendant a chance to reconcile the case without the involvement of the court.

You should remember to send this to your defendant before filing your case. If you fail to do this, there’ll be a chance that your lawsuit will be dismissed.

5. Complete your complaint.

Make sure your lawyer assesses your case critically. He/she should help you figure out what claims you can file for and will also help you draft the complaint that you can use to file the lawsuit. He/she should also make sure that you understand the case and what you think the court should do.

The complaint will identify:

  • You (the complainant)
  • Your doctor/health practitioner (the defendant)
  • Your doctor’s insurance company
  • Hospital or facility that you’re suing
  • Your allegations
  • Facts that make you entitled to monetary damages
  • Legal theory which proves that you’re qualified to the costs
  • List of the losses that resulted from your doctor’s negligence or actions

6. Make sure your complaint is delivered.

You should remember to deliver your complaint to the defendant/defendants after you’ve filed the complaint. Make sure that your doctor, your doctor’s insurance company and other health providers involved have the copy of the complaint. This will ensure that the defendant/defendants are well aware of the charge and have the opportunity to respond.

7. Wait for your defendant/defendants’ response.

Usually, the defendants will counter your complaint and file a motion to dismiss it. You shouldn’t be surprised if they do this, as this is part of the litigation process. However, if your case is secure and your evidence is complete, your lawsuit should survive.

 
8. Get ready for the settlement.

After your lawsuit survives the motion to dismiss, the defendant/defendants will try to offer you a settlement. When this happens, you have to consult your lawyer before deciding on what to do next. Ask your lawyer how much would put your child’s best interest forward. You can also ask other doctors for help. The doctor can help you understand the total costs that you will most likely face as your child grows up.

9. Be prepared for the trial.

If you and the defendant/defendants are unable to resolve the case through settlement, the next step is presenting your case to the court and prepare for a trial.

Be sure to attend the trial, and have your completed documents ready. Never forget to always be in contact with your lawyer, as he/she will be able to guide you throughout the process.

During this process, you should never forget the reason why you are fighting: your baby. Though no amount of compensation can ever pay for what your baby is going through, you should still put your baby’s welfare on top. And remember that you’re also doing this for others, so that they may never go through what you’re going through right now.

Dianna Charles

Dianna Charles is a promising young law enthusiast that hopes to bring her youthful spirit in her field. She tries to add a refreshing modern take to topics on the legal world that people can learn from. Dianna enjoys her free time with friends and family, and loves to cook for them.

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Easy Chicken Broccoli Casserole Recipe

If you are stuck on what to make for dinner, I have a great idea for you. I make a chicken broccoli casserole that is not only delicious, but it is super easy. My daughters love having leftovers to take to lunch the next day. This is one dish that never gets wasted, and is a great option to make for a friend or family member who could use a home-cooked meal that will last a few days.

Before I share the recipe, I wanted to mention that you can substitute some ingredients for fat-free or low-fat if you are cutting calories. It will still be just as delicious.


Easy Chicken Broccoli Casserole

Ingredients:

3 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 small can condensed cream of chicken soup
1 8-ounce container sour cream
1/2 cup mayonnaise
8 ounces shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 tbsp lemon juice
16 ounce bag of frozen broccoli florets
3-4 cups of cooked rice
2-3 thinly sliced green onions
salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, and paprika
cooking spray or butter for baking dish

Directions:

  1. Place chicken breasts in pot of water with desired seasonings. Bring to a boil and cook about 25 minutes. Drain water and chop chicken in small pieces (or shred). Set aside in fridge to cool.
  2. Mix soup, sour cream, mayonnaise, lemon juice, half the green onions, and half the shredded cheese. Add in chopped chicken and season to taste. Garlic powder and red pepper flakes add a nice kick. 
  3. Quickly boil broccoli in salted water for 1-2 minutes and drain. 
  4. Heat oven to 350 degrees. Spray or coat casserole dish with butter. Layer rice on bottom of pan evenly, then layer broccoli on top of rice. Next, layer with the creamy chicken mixture on top of broccoli layer. Top with remaining cheese, green onions, and a sprinkling of paprika. 
  5. Bake uncovered for 40-45 minutes. Let it sit for about 10 minutes before serving. Enjoy! 

Tips:

  • You can substitute chicken breast with chicken tenders. I find that tenders are less "stringy" and are well, more tender. 
  • You can omit the green onion if you are not a fan of onions, but I like the flavor and color that it adds to the dish. 
  • You do not have to use frozen broccoli. It just makes it so much easier, and is a time saver.
  • The paprika is optional, but it really adds nice color and minimal flavor.
  • If you want to make a casserole to share, just separate into two smaller baking dishes.  

I hope you make this recipe for your family. Let me know if you do. Thanks for stopping by.
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5 Places to Meet New Mom Friends in New York City

New York City is one of the most popular places on earth. The hustle and bustle of the Big Apple never stops. Traffic rages, pedestrians travel, and the city lights burn right through the night. Raising a baby in New York City is no easy feat, doing it requires a support group.
Photo by Ralph Chang from Pexels 
Many new people that have relocated to New York City fond it challenging to meet new friends, so finding your new mom squad may be tough. However, if you know your way around and where to go, then there are plenty of places you can visit that will present you with the opportunity to make new mom friends. Here are five ways you can meet new friends in the world’s most famous city.

#1 Parks and Playgrounds
Bridge Park Pier 6 in Brooklyn, Union Square Playground, Bleecker Playground in Manhattan, and Hudson River Park Pier 25 are great places to meet new moms. Remember to keep your eyes on your child at all times but when they are digging in the sandbox or playing on a swing set, take the opportunity to strike up a conversation with a mom nearby. Some of the most fabulous friendships are made in the playground.

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#2 Online Mom Chatrooms
Social media has connected us in a way that gives us instant access to social groups at the click of a mouse. Join up with some local New York City mom’s groups. Astoria parents, UES Mommas, and Madison Square Park Moms are all fantastic Facebook groups filled with hundreds of friendly moms that are always willing to help out. As you get to know people, you will discover moms that live nearby, and you can arrange to meet for coffee and discuss a playdate for your kids.

#3 New Mom Support Groups
There are many pre-birth classes available across the city. Signing up for a course will expose you to new moms that are thrilled to be experiencing the miracle of childbirth as much as you are. You will all have something in common already, and if you make a friend your kids could end up growing up together as best buddies. Check out your local listings online or visit the nearest YMCA for a class schedule.

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#4 Get Social at Playgroups
Getting your kids into playgroups as early as possible will have tremendous benefit for their social development. Children love to watch and learn, so if you get involved at the playgroup chatting with other parents, you are laying the foundation for your child’s personality to be open and friendly.

#5 Make Friends at the Pediatrician’s office
If you’re waiting at the pediatrician’s office for your child’s latest checkup, start a conversation with the moms sitting around you. Before you open your conversation, ensure you read the body language and facial expressions of the parents sitting around you. This brief assessment will give you a good idea of their emotional state; not everyone is at the pediatrician's office with good news.

The Final Tip
It’s important to get out with your child, so if you are struggling to meet your household obligations and spend quality time with your kid, consider hiring a cleaning service to assist you with the housework. Cleaning services are experts at cleaning good for health purposes, giving you more free time to spend with your kids.
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The Best Banana Bread Recipe

A few days ago, I shared a photo of a banana bread I baked on Instagram. I almost always get the comment, "Recipe, please!". I figured I need to start adding more recipes on the blog. I actually found this banana bread recipe years ago, and have tweaked it slightly to my taste. It's so good because you don't need a mixer, and it can all be done in one bowl. Less cleaning is always a good thing! 
Ingredients:

2 to 3 very ripe, large bananas
1/3 cup melted butter
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup sugar (adjust to your taste)
1 large egg, beaten
1 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour
chopped walnuts (optional)

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350°F. Prepare a regular sized loaf pan either by buttering, using cooking spray, or lining with parchment. Mash bananas and add all wet ingredients, followed by dry. Mix until fully combined and spoon into pan. If you are using walnuts, add them to the top of the batter. Bake for 45-60 minutes. Insert a wooden toothpick in center to test if it's baked all the way. Toothpick should come out clean. Fifty minutes usually does it for me.

Helpful Tips:

I like lining my loaf pan with parchment because you don't have to worry about sticking, and there is almost no cleanup. I also prefer adding nuts on top instead of mixed in for better crunch, and texture. They get nice and toasty from baking.


This banana bread is a winner and my family loves it. Next time you have some overripe bananas hanging around, you should try this recipe. Enjoy! 

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Is Your Child Wearing The Right Shoe Size?

Survey Finds That Minority of All Kids Wear the Right Shoe Size

Your kid’s cool Adidas sneakers may look great, but do they fit properly? Shoes that are too small put children at risk of foot deformities and other serious health issues. The bad news for parents; almost two thirds of all children are wearing shoes that are too small!
Blitzresults conducted a survey and found that 65% of all kids are wearing shoes that are too small. Of these, 47% are one size too small and 18% are even two. Only 35% are wearing the correct size and only 11% of those have “room to grow”.

Improperly fitting shoes can cause hallux valgus. This is a foot deformity, it happens when the big toe starts to angle inward, which causes a swollen lump just below the big toe. A study conducted by the National Health Institute found that almost 30% of children had irreversible foot deformities, like hallux valgus.

To help parents make sure they are buying shoes that fit their kids properly, keep the following advice in mind:

  • Go by the longer foot: The right and left foot are rarely the same length. A difference of up to half an inch is normal, that’s almost one whole shoe size. Therefore, parents should always go by the longer foot when buying shoes.
  • Don’t rely on the shoe size: Shoe manufacturers label shoes with standard sizes, the ones we all know. But, there is no mandatory industry standard for shoe sizing, so each brand will vary. Be sure to try on every shoe carefully.
  • Give ‘em room: Most parents are aware that feet need some room, but usually underestimate the actual room needed. At least ½ inch of additional room is optimal, it’s the only way kids can roll their foot properly when walking.
  • Do a regular check: Tim Lilling, expert at blitzresults.com, tells us that, "Because the sense of touch isn’t fully developed in children yet, they have a tendency to squeeze their feet into shoes that are much too small, they don’t even notice it. Therefore, parents must measure their children’s feet every 2 months." A measuring guide, useful conversion tools and a lot of information on how to choose shoes with the perfect fit can be found at https://www.blitzresults.com/en/childrens-shoe-size.

Unfortunately, many parents still use these "tricks" to judge whether shoes fit:

  • Trick: Hold shoe to foot. The shoe sole is held up to the child’s foot to estimate the size, but the length on the inside of the shoe can’t be estimated from the outside, and is often much shorter than you’d expect (lining, seams, foot bed). Better: Use an appropriate measuring device.
  • Trick: The thumb test. The thumb presses on the toe of the shoe to see how much room there is to grow. The problem; children often draw their toes up by reflex, so the foot is rolled under. It may seem like there’s enough room, although, in reality, the shoes are too small. Using the heel test is just as bad for judging free space in the heel. Many kids push their feet forward until their toes are crammed in. Better: Carefully feel your child´s foot inside the shoe. Place one hand on the front of the shoe, so the child can’t draw their toes up. Then, with the other hand, check the position of the toes. This way you can feel whether there is enough room to grow.
  • Trick: Size comparison using a stencil. The shape and size of the foot is traced and compared with the shoe sole, but this comparison is usually imprecise. Better: If there is a removable insole, take it out and place the foot on the insole, there should be 1/3 inch of space behind the heel and half an inch in front of the toes.
  • Trick: Asking them how it feels. Parents ask kids; "Does the shoe fit?" Unfortunately, the answer will likely be wrong. Often, the nerves in kid’s feet are not fully developed yet and their awareness of pain is clearly lower than an adult’s, so, kids don't realize if the shoe fits. Better: First and foremost, measure their feet.


Converters, measuring guides and tips and tricks to find the right size can be found here.

Main findings of the survey:


  • 65% of all kids are wearing shoes that are too small. Of these, 47% are one size too small and 18% are even two.
  • Only 35% are wearing the correct size, and only 11 % of those have room to grow.
  • Of the parents surveyed, 52% said they’d never measured their kid's foot length, but instead relied solely on sensorial and visual tests.


About the study:
2109 parents were asked about their kids’ foot length and shoe size. Afterward, special measuring devices and instructions on how to measure feet properly were given to the parents. The measurement values were used to calculate the actual shoe size, then these results were compared with the parents’ hit or miss values.

About BlitzResults.com:
BlitzResults is an open source educational platform with focus on science, consumer affairs and technology. A wide variety of tools, converters and checklists help users to calculate optimal results. All tools were created in collaboration with educational institutions and every info-graphic is licensed under creative commons and may be used free of charge in educational context.
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Date Night: The Romance of NYC

It can be hard to keep the spark alive in a long-term relationship or marriage, but sometimes all you need to do is go away for a bit. Even more difficult is finding a proper date to start. Being romantic is no easy task, but whether you are taking time away from the family you’ve made or you’re on a first date, New York City makes the ideal date easy to plan.

Relaxed Romance
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If you want a slow-paced date with your husband or want to get to know someone quietly overtime, choose one of New York City’s lush, beautiful gardens. Brooklyn Botanical Garden, for example, is a paradise of flora and fauna. With acres of romantic cherry blossoms and an on-site conservatory, this natural beauty is sure to set your hearts aflutter.

A bit of Childhood Whimsy

Sometimes, it can be hard to be yourself on a date – especially on a first date. Head over to Brooklyn Heights and take a ride on the gorgeous Jane’s Carousel. This hundred-year-old children’s attraction will bring you back to a simpler time and put your mind and heart at ease around that special someone. Top off this idyllic afternoon at the Brooklyn Ice Cream Factory, which is just nearby. You can take a more cultured route and take in a show at St. Ann’s Warehouse.

A Night Out

The Slipper Room on the Lower East Side is a seductive experience for a date that needs close contact. With performance art, comedy, dancers and singers, you and your date will find something exciting going on here on any night of the week. Take in the swanky atmosphere of this throwback lounge and create the ideal first date.

In Brooklyn, you’ll find the aptly named Brooklyn Night Bazaar. There is too much to do in just one night, but if you can manage it, you can play mini golf, belt it out at karaoke, and experience the fun of being a kid with arcade games. Dinner, drinks, and vintage knick-knacks give this artisanal-scented marketplace the best date night vibe out there.

Traditional is Fine, Too

If you crave that classic dinner and movie vibe, Greenpoint is famous for its rustic pizza house and you can take in the awe-inspiring skyline of Manhattan. Over in Williamsburg, the Nitehawk Cinema is a lux movie theatre that serves a full menu (tacos, anyone?), large and comfortable lounge chairs, and showings of retro and independent films alike. You can even get a drink with your movie.

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Find a tour of the city at https://www.topviewnyc.com/ if you cannot exactly decide what to do on a romantic getaway. An informed tour guide can give you a plethora of ideas and you’ll wonder why you didn’t think of them yourself.

While New York City hasn’t been nicknamed the city of love, it is certainly overflowing with art galleries, high-end and unique restaurants, and a botanic paradise in all that steel and chrome. For your next big date, New York City has something for every couple.

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