Efficient Strategies to Enhance Your Home's Air Conditioning Performance

 

Table of Contents

1. How Air Conditioning Works
2. Signs Your AC Needs Maintenance
3. Easy DIY Maintenance Tips
4. When to Call a Professional
5. Energy-Saving Tips for Your AC
6. Benefits of Regular AC Servicing
7. Choosing the Right AC System for Your Home
8. Eco-Friendly AC Options

How Air Conditioning Works

Understanding the basic mechanics behind air conditioning can help you make informed decisions about maintenance and upgrades. An air conditioning (AC) unit removes heat from your home by circulating refrigerant through evaporative and condensing coils, effectively cooling the air pushed through your home's ductwork. This cycle repeats to maintain a consistent, comfortable indoor temperature. If your unit shows inefficiency, consider AC repair, performed by professionals who can diagnose and fix issues promptly.

Signs Your AC Needs Maintenance

Is your air conditioning unit making odd noises or failing to maintain a consistent temperature? These issues can be significant indicators that your system is overdue for maintenance. Limited airflow, unpleasant odors, and excessive moisture are all key indicators your AC unit needs attention. Neglecting these signs can lead to more significant problems, including higher utility bills and potential system failure. Early detection and routine maintenance can extend the lifespan of your equipment and improve overall performance.

Easy DIY Maintenance Tips

There are several steps you can take to keep your AC running smoothly. Regularly changing or cleaning the filters, ensuring the unit is clear of debris, and checking the thermostat settings can help extend the life of your system. Even simple actions, like keeping vents open and unobstructed, play a role in effective cooling.

Change or Clean Filters

It's important to clean or replace your AC filters regularly. Filters stop dust, debris, and other particles from getting into your house's air supply. But over time, these particles build up and clog the filter, making your system work harder and less effectively. Changing the filter is advised for most systems every one to three months, depending on use and local air quality.

Keep the Unit Clear of Debris

Ensure that the area around your AC unit is free from leaves, grass, and other debris that could obstruct airflow and hinder performance. It's advisable to check the exterior unit periodically, especially after storms or periods of high winds. Keeping the unit clear improves efficiency and prevents potential damage caused by debris hitting the fan blades or other vital components.

Check Thermostat Settings

To ensure the system runs well, regularly check and modify the thermostat settings. Because programmable thermostats let you set different temperatures at different times of the day, they can help you save even more energy. For example, you can save much energy without losing comfort by turning down the thermostat a few degrees before you get home and turning it up while you're not.

When to Call a Professional

While DIY maintenance can help in the short term, there are situations where a professional's expertise is crucial. If your AC unit leaks refrigerant or makes strange noises, or if the problem persists despite your best efforts, it's time to seek professional assistance. Professional technicians can diagnose issues that may not be visible, such as electrical problems or internal component failures, ensuring your system functions at its best. Addressing these issues early can avoid costly repairs and ensure your home remains comfortable year-round.

Energy-Saving Tips for Your AC

Optimizing your air conditioner's performance can significantly reduce your energy bills. Simple changes like using a programmable thermostat and setting a comfortable yet efficient temperature can make a big difference. Additionally, sealing leaks in your home's ductwork and adding insulation can enhance your system's efficiency. For a deeper dive, consider these energy-saving tips from the EPA. Also, ensure your home is adequately ventilated to reduce the workload on your AC unit. Even minor adjustments, like using ceiling fans to circulate cool air, can create a more comfortable and energy-efficient environment.

Benefits of Regular AC Servicing

Regular air conditioning unit servicing can improve energy efficiency, prolong system life, and improve indoor air quality. Scheduled maintenance can catch minor issues before they become major problems, saving you both time and money in the long run. During a professional service, technicians will check the refrigerant levels, clean the coils, inspect electrical components, and ensure all parts function correctly. Keeping your system in prime condition allows you to enjoy more reliable performance and fewer unexpected breakdowns, which is especially crucial during peak summer months.

Choosing the Right AC System for Your Home

Selecting the right air conditioning system for your home can be challenging with so many options. Factors to consider include your home's size, budget, and specific cooling needs. For instance, a larger home may require a central air system, while a smaller space might be efficiently cooled with a ductless mini-split unit. Consulting with an HVAC professional can give you insights into what system will work best for you, taking into account factors like local climate, energy efficiency ratings, and technological advancements. A well-chosen system improves comfort and can lead to significant energy savings over time.

Eco-Friendly AC Options

An increasing number of homes are thinking about eco-friendly air conditioning choices as environmental concerns grow. Higher SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) systems employ more ecologically friendly refrigerants, and newer versions are generally more energy-efficient. Another environmentally friendly alternative is a solar-powered air conditioning unit, which uses renewable energy to cool your house. Furthermore, several air conditioning systems have been combined with smart home technology, enabling consumers to track and manage their energy consumption using smartphone apps. Because of these developments, eco-friendly AC alternatives are a prudent long-term investment because they lessen your carbon impact and may result in cheaper power costs. 

The Ultimate Guide to Energy-Efficient Windows and Siding for Your Home

 Table of Contents:

• The Benefits of Energy-Efficient Windows and Siding
• How Windows Insulate Your Home
• Choosing the Right Siding Material
• Cost Savings and Payback Period
• Tips for Installing Windows and Siding
• Maintenance and Care Tips

The Benefits of Energy-Efficient Windows and Siding

Installing energy-efficient windows and siding offers many benefits, from reducing your carbon footprint to significantly lowering your home's energy bills. By opting for these modern upgrades, you can increase your home's aesthetic appeal and turn it into a more sustainable and eco-friendly residence. With a wide range of energy-efficient solutions available from companies like Window Outlet and Siding, homeowners can find the perfect fit for their specific needs and preferences.

In addition to the aesthetic enhancements, energy-efficient windows and siding can substantially increase your property value. According to industry reports, homes with energy-efficient improvements are more attractive to buyers and often sell faster and at higher prices. The financial benefits are compelling, especially considering that homes with energy-efficient windows can experience up to a 30% reduction in heating and cooling costs. 

How Windows Insulate Your Home

Understanding how windows insulate your home is essential for maximizing their effectiveness. Windows act as thermal barriers, employing advanced technologies like double or triple glazing and low-emissivity coatings to minimize thermal transfer. This means they help keep your home warm in the winter by preventing heat from escaping and cool in the summer by blocking external heat.

These windows' specific materials and technologies are designed to enhance their insulating properties. For example, double-glazed windows have two layers of glass with a gap in between, filled with an inert gas like argon, which provides excellent insulation. Low-emissivity (Low-E) coatings further reduce heat transfer by reflecting infrared light. 

Choosing the Right Siding Material

When selecting siding for your home, there are multiple options, including vinyl, wood, and fiber cement, each with its own advantages and drawbacks. Vinyl siding, for instance, is famous for its low maintenance and cost-effectiveness, making it an ideal choice for budget-conscious homeowners. On the other hand, wood siding is favored for its classic, natural appearance, although it requires more upkeep.

Fiber cement siding is another excellent option, known for its durability and resistance to various weather conditions. It combines the best of both worlds, offering wood's aesthetic appeal with vinyl's low-maintenance characteristics. When deciding, it's crucial to consider factors such as your local climate, budget, and home's architectural style. By evaluating these aspects, you can select a siding material that meets your functional requirements and enhances your home's overall look and feel.

Cost Savings and Payback Period

One of the most significant advantages of installing energy-efficient windows and siding is the substantial reduction in energy bills. Although the initial investment can be considerable, the long-term savings and increased property value often justify the cost. For example, homes that transition to energy-efficient windows can see a 30% reduction in heating and cooling expenses, translating to significant savings over time.

The payback period for these investments typically ranges from 5 to 10 years, depending on factors such as your local climate, the specific products installed, and your home's existing insulation. To better understand the financial benefits, homeowners can use online calculators that factor in their local utility rates and climate conditions. This will give them a clearer picture of the potential savings and how quickly their investment will pay off.

Tips for Installing Windows and Siding

Proper installation is crucial to maximizing the benefits of energy-efficient windows and siding. Here are some expert tips to ensure a successful project:

• Seal all gaps and seams: Proper sealing is essential to prevent air leakage, which can compromise the insulation properties of your windows and siding.
• Hire experienced professionals: Skilled contractors can ensure precise alignment and secure installation, minimizing the risk of future issues.
• Choose high-quality materials: Opt for materials suited to your local climate conditions to enhance durability and performance.

Following these guidelines will help you achieve the best results, ensuring your home remains energy-efficient and visually appealing. It is also a good idea to review your contractor's previous work and ask for references to ensure they have the necessary experience and expertise.

Maintenance and Care Tips

Maintaining your energy-efficient windows and siding is essential for their longevity and continued performance. Here are some practical maintenance tips:

• Regular cleaning: Keep windows and siding free from dirt and debris by cleaning them regularly. This not only maintains their appearance but also ensures optimal performance.
• Inspect for damage: Periodically check for signs of wear or damage, such as cracks, warping, or gaps. Addressing these issues promptly can prevent more significant problems down the line.
• Re-seal as needed: The seals around your windows and siding may degrade over time. Re-sealing them as needed will help maintain their insulating properties and extend their lifespan.

Regular maintenance will help ensure that these installations continue providing energy savings and aesthetic appeal for years. Additionally, scheduling annual inspections with a professional should be considered to catch any issues before they become significant problems.

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Booming Belts The Wireless Speaker You Wear Like A Belt

Booming Belts is a wireless Bluetooth speaker you use as a belt. It comes with a usb charger, the speaker, magnetic belt, belt clip holder.  The belt can be easily sized and extends to 56”.

It was really easy to hook up to my iPhone. You can listen to music, take a call and download music by hooking it up to your computer and downloading songs.

I had wanted to use in my classroom for transitioning outside and to the gym. We love listening to our music 🎶 in the class and it’s fun to bring it outside too!

This morning I used it on my dog walking job but found it difficult to hear however the ease of using the belt made listening to something when I need my hands for the leashes.  

The speaker is convenient for holding and bringing with you but it needs more bass and more volume control. It’s not loud enough in my class. The iPhone speaker on my phone is louder than the speaker in my experience.

I liked that I could answer a call from the speaker as I am not allowed to use a phone at work but found it difficult to hear unless I moved the speaker to my ear which defeats the purpose.

The price point is higher than I would pay for a speaker but if it were louder it would be an amazing product! 

It gets 3 out of 5 stars from me. 

Can A Prediction Gadget Become A Teacher's Assistant? Yes! Yes, It Can

 A little over a week ago I received Mr. Predicto and Predicto Cat for review. As a teacher I am always thinking of ways to engage my preschool classroom. It's the Summer and my kids are done listening to me but will they listen to Predicto Cat?

Think Magic 8 Ball with a twist and a great new look. Predicto Cat is the cuter, whimsical version of  Mr. Predicto. Both are orbs that speak to you but Predicto Cat looks like an adorable black and white cat.

I brought Predicto Cat into the class room last week and introduced him during circle time. Each child was asked to ask him a yes or no question. They are still learning and were just saying statements but it took no time for them to learn. Predicto Cat, will it rain today? Is Cindy still my best friend? Is Ms. Maria upset right now? Did I make a good choice? Should Luke rest his body for hurting his friend Abby? The class loved it! 

It helps with re-engaging the class, when one of my students is having a difficult time separating from their parent, transitions but also takes some of the rule following conversations out of my hands. They are with me since September and ready to move onto their new class. They do not want to listen to ME anymore but they will listen to Predicto Cat.

There are so many ways to use Predicto Cat or Mr. Predicto.

Beach Day Decisions - Should we go to the beach today?

BBQ Fun - Should we make chicken or hot dogs. 

Backyard Games - Have the orbs predict the winner to your game and see if they are right

Road Trip Assistant - Should we listen to this song? Should we stop here?

My class definitely love talking to Predicto Cat and ask for him all the time. They can go up to him when he is sitting on my desk but I do have to put him away because everyone will stand around asking him questions for an hour.

To Purchase:

https://amzn.to/461CNEk

https://amzn.to/3y7mU2q

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary product for my honest opinion.

Thoughtful Gifts for a Relative in a Care Home

 

Living in a care home can be a significant adjustment for many individuals. It often involves leaving the familiarity of one's own home and adapting to a new environment where daily routines and social interactions differ. The right gifts can bring comfort, joy, and a sense of connection to loved ones in care homes. Here are some thoughtful gift ideas, along with insights into life in a care home and how these gifts can enhance the experience.

1. Personal Comfort Items

Life in a Care Home: Care homes strive to create a comfortable and supportive environment, but personal touches from home can make all the difference. Residents often have private rooms, but the decor and items are usually elegant but more impersonal, like in a hotel.

Gift Ideas:

• Customized Blankets and Pillows: Soft, warm blankets and pillows with personalized touches like their name, favorite colors, or photos of loved ones can provide physical and emotional comfort.
• Cozy Robes and Slippers: High-quality, cozy robes and slippers can make mornings and evenings more comfortable, adding a touch of luxury to daily routines.

2. Entertainment and Hobbies

Life in a Care Home: Residents in care homes like the Ivybank House care home in Bath have access to various activities and social events, but personal entertainment and hobbies can fill quiet times and provide a sense of purpose and enjoyment.

Gift Ideas:

• Books and Puzzles: Large print books, audiobooks, and puzzles can be great for mental stimulation and enjoyment.
• Craft Supplies: For those who enjoy arts and crafts, providing supplies for knitting, painting, or scrapbooking can be a wonderful way to spend time creatively.

3. Technology and Communication

Life in a Care Home: Staying connected with family and friends outside the care home is crucial for emotional well-being. Technology can bridge the gap, helping residents feel less isolated.

Gift Ideas:

• Tablets and Smart Devices: Devices preloaded with family photos, video calling apps, and easy-to-use interfaces can help residents stay in touch with their loved ones.
• Digital Photo Frames: These can be updated remotely with new photos, providing a constant visual connection to family and friends.

4. Personal Care and Wellness

Life in a Care Home: Care homes provide essential personal care services, but additional wellness items can enhance residents' quality of life.

Gift Ideas:

• Aromatherapy Diffusers: Calming scents like lavender or eucalyptus can create a relaxing atmosphere in their room.
• Personal Grooming Kits: High-quality grooming kits for hair, nails, and skin care can help residents maintain their personal hygiene and feel their best.

5. Social and Interactive Gifts

Life in a Care Home: Social interaction is a key component of life in care homes, where communal activities help build a sense of community and belonging.

Gift Ideas:

• Board Games and Card Games: Games that can be played with other residents or during family visits can foster social interaction and fun.
• Interactive Companion Pets: For those who love animals, lifelike robotic pets can provide comfort and companionship.

Conclusion

Choosing thoughtful gifts for a relative in a care home requires consideration of their daily life, interests, and the emotional and physical adjustments they may be experiencing. By providing these thoughtful gifts, you can help your loved one feel more connected, comfortable, and cared for in their new home.

 

How Paint Protection Film Safeguards Your Car’s Finish

In automotive care, maintaining a pristine finish is a major concern for car enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike. One of the most effective solutions to protect your car’s exterior is the application of Paint Protection Film. This advanced protective layer offers several benefits that keeps your vehicle in top-notch condition, safeguarding it from the many hazards it encounters daily.

What is Paint Protection Film?

Paint Protection Film, often referred to as PPF or clear bra, is a thermoplastic urethane film applied to the painted surfaces of a vehicle. Initially developed for military use to protect helicopter blades, this technology has been adapted for automotive purposes, providing a robust shield against environmental and physical damage. PPF is typically transparent and can be customized to cover specific parts or the entire surface of the vehicle.

Key Benefits of Paint Protection Film

Once you've invested in a new car, you want to keep it looking as pristine as it did the day you drove it off the lot. Here's how PPF keeps that car looking as luxurious as a brand new Lexus for sale:

1. Protection Against Physical Damage: One of the primary benefits of PPF is its ability to protect your car’s paint from physical damage. Everyday driving exposes your vehicle to various threats, such as road debris, gravel and minor collisions, which can cause unsightly chips and scratches. PPF acts as a barrier, absorbing the impact and preventing the underlying paint from being damaged.

2. Shield from Environmental Elements: Environmental factors such as UV rays, bird droppings, tree sap and acid rain can cause significant damage to a car’s paint over time. UV rays, in particular, can lead to fading and oxidation, making your car look older than it is. PPF provides a protective layer that blocks these harmful elements, preserving the paint’s vibrancy and gloss.

3. Self-Healing Properties: Modern PPF technology includes self-healing properties, which allow minor scratches and swirl marks to disappear on their own. This is achieved through the film’s elastomeric polymers that return to their natural shape when exposed to heat, such as sunlight or warm water. 

4. Ease of Maintenance: Cars protected with PPF are easier to clean and maintain. The film’s smooth surface repels dirt and grime, making washing your car a quicker and more efficient process. Additionally, PPF can be waxed and polished just like the rest of the car, ensuring a uniform and glossy appearance.

5. Invisible Protection: One of the most appealing aspects of PPF is its nearly invisible nature. High-quality PPF is clear and does not alter the appearance of your car’s paint. This allows you to enjoy the original look of your vehicle while benefiting from enhanced protection.

Installation and Considerations

While PPF offers many advantages, it is important to have it professionally installed for optimal results. Professional installers have the expertise and tools required to apply the film smoothly and without bubbles or imperfections. They can also customize the coverage to meet your specific needs, whether you want full-body protection or coverage for high-impact areas such as the hood, fenders and mirrors.

It’s also important to choose a high-quality PPF product from reputable brands. The longevity and effectiveness of PPF can vary significantly between different products, so investing in a premium option can provide better protection and durability.

PPF Offers Long-Lasting Benefits

Paint Protection Film is a worthwhile investment for any car owner looking to preserve the beauty and integrity of their vehicle’s finish. Whether you drive a luxury sports car or a daily commuter, Paint Protection Film offers peace of mind and long-lasting benefits that are hard to match.

70% OFF - Stock Up On Glue Sticks NOW For Back To School Or Anytime! #amazondeals

 Just got my glue sticks. As a teacher of preschool and journaling maniac I can never have enough glue sticks and this was a price I couldn't pass up. Why didn't I order three boxes? ORDER NOW ORDER NOW

The Effects of Gentle And Passive Parents On Your Toddlers

Toddlers are not nice! Toddlers say things that shock me. Toddlers can be very mean and aggressive with their peers. Toddlers are also very sweet, loving, kind and make my job with it but it is NOT an easy job by any means.

I am in my 10th year of working in a daycare and I can tell you it is not for the faint of heart. My coworkers and I have seen such a drastic change in the children we work with and it is not a good change.

Prior to last year I was in a 2+ toddler room and this coming September I will have my 3rd older 3 class which is the class right before PreK. 

In my first year of working in the daycare my kids were 2+ and learning to potty but also learning many other things. They were capable of waiting their turn, listening to instructions, hearing their name, following directions and more. The teacher I worked with at that time use to talk about how we were working at a kindergarten level with them. They were well behaved and had critical thinking skills. They were able to retain information and it was a pleasure to teach them.

Last year the children I worked with in my new older 3s room were kids I moved up with so they were mine for 2 years. They knew my expectations and we worked together. I based my curriculum around their interests and built on their learning. They listened and could follow directions. They were a pleasant class and I grew to love them and their families. I still babysit for some of them outside of work hours which is a pleasure. 

This past September I got a whole new class. They came from two different classrooms based on ages and 14 out of 19 have already turned 4 this year with the others turning over the next few months. I started things exactly the same as my last class. I laid out the classroom rules and expectations. My assistant and I work like a team and were very successful last year. Our group moved onto their PreK class ready, willing and able. They are great kids but this years crop are nothing like them. 

None of them listen to directions. All of them need to be mico-managed to get them moving. 1-2 out of 19 have critical thinking skills. 10 out of 19 can identify their names. 19 out of 19 cannot hear their name called. 19 out of 19 can not use walking feet. 4 out of 19 have spatial awareness the others act like they are just learning to move around the world. 1 out of 19 can retain the calendar with prompts. 

I spend my days stress out, trying to get their attention over the noise level of a hockey game and helping them move forward to the sink to wash their hands. No one understands that once someone leaves the sink move forward so the next person can wash their hands and it goes on and on like that.

There is no need to wonder why children are such a mess. I can see it daily. Parents who give all the power to their toddlers. Kids who come in with pajamas on, no shoes, won't carry their own backpacks, and a parent often times frazzled because they couldn't get their child to do what they wanted or needed them to do. Parents who give children all the power are creating problems for themselves in the future. 

What Children Need:

Children require boundaries, rules and direction. 

They can be given choices but no more than 2 and only ones you can live with. 

Simple instructions that are easy for them to follow.

They need to be held accountable. If you ask them to do something and they don't your job is to help them. Sometimes it is hand over hand. Sometimes it is saying it another way and sometimes it is demanding they listen to you.

Parents must understand that children are children. They are not your little friends. Your job as a parent is to parent and sometimes that means raising your voice. Sometimes it means allowing your child to cry. It is okay. They will be okay I promise. They will still love you. Is it hard!? Yes! Very hard. But our job as parents is to make sure other people want to be around our children long after we are gone. 

My suggest as a teacher is allow your child to be bored sometimes. Do not give them an IPad, IPhone, computer or game system until they are older. It is okay for quiet. They do not need you to entertain them all the time. As a child I did my my creative work when I was bored. 

Do not give them every single thing they ask for. Wanting things keep you humble. I hear it all the time at school. If I break/lose it my mom/dad will buy me another. No! Children should respect their things and should learn to appreciate their things. 

I do positive affirmations every day with my class. They repeat after me. 

I am strong

I am smart

I listen to my teacher

My mommy and daddy loves me

I am not better than anyone else

No one is better than me. 

I am loved.

We also sing a song before we have our snacks and lunch. 

Let's be thankful, let's be thankful

Let's be glad, let's be glad

for the many good thing that we have, that we have.

Children should be grateful. They should give thanks. They don't know to do this unless they are taught. 

Teach them to respect others. 

Teach them that there is a price to their actions and that things they want have a price

Teach them to be kind to others 

Teach them empathy

Teach them to be patient 

Teach them to share

I can teach your child letters, colors, shapes, but I need your help to teach them how to be good people.

If There Is Ever Apocalypse The Only Survivors Will Be Over 40

This week I listened to two younger co-workers (22 year old and 31 year old) talk and realized that if there is ever an apocalypse only those over 40 will survive. 

Their power had gone out the night before at 9 PM and it was in the 8th hour losing their minds about what to do. 

The big question was what do you do if your power goes out and you need to wake for work the next day. Oh no....girls...I have lost power for 9 days and got myself to work on time, my kids and self fed, as well as kept them entertained and happy. 

I did inform them that they had just written my post and that if there was ever an apocalypse they should just throw up their hands knowing that they would not survive. 

My suggestion to them was to PREPARE for emergencies NOT on the day of the emergency but way before it knowing that there will always be something unexpected that they should be ready for. That life is hard and the unexpected make things harder but manageable if you are prepared!

How To Prepare for An Emergency!

Keep your phone and watch charged! ALWAYS but if the grid goes down have a back up plan.

Have a to go bag. This bag should have copies of important information like insurance cards for yourself, your house and your car. It should have important phone numbers because you may not know them by heart because we have been programmed to press a button on our phone to call others so none of us remember numbers anymore. Medical kit, solar charger, change of clothes, flashlight, water, knife, and any medications you may need. This bag should be near your door or in a place you can instantly grab it.

Rescue Emergency Bag

Survival Bag

You should have water for everyone in the family including your pets. That would be a gallon a day and you should have at least a 3-5 day supply.

Tent the size of a soda can

One of the best solar power banks ever. My family all have one of these. We leave it on the window sills so they are always charged and ready. It can charge two things at once and has long life. It even has a flashlight on it!

Crank radio, solar bank and flashlight all in one.

For my co-workers who just don't know what to do without their power, get a back up clock with alarm. Yeah good old school thing that works when nothing else does. It's under $8 and will help you keep your job!

 

Does Your Family Love Pizza Like Mine? 75 Pizza Ideas Of Pizza! Pizza! Pizza!

 

Pizza! Pizza! Pizza!

Over 75 Fresh Ideas for Every Pizza Night

(June 25, 2024): Endlessly customizable and always delectable, pizza is the one food where you can be certain—there really is something for everybody!

Pizza! Pizza! Pizza! takes full advantage of this variety, with over 75 unique recipes for everything from savory homemade sauces to perfect pizza extras like salads and desserts.

No need for guesswork or frozen pizza anymore, Pizza! Pizza! Pizza! provides in-depth instructions for creating delicious pizzas including vegetarian and vegan options.

Pizza! Pizza! Pizza! is filled with instant favorite recipes that are as easy to prepare as they are to love, including:
• BBQ Chicken
• Double-Dough Pan Pizza
• Peach & Jalapeño
• Hummus & Roasted Red Pepper
• Spicy Southwest
• Roasted Tomato Margarita
• Chicken Giardiniera
• Hot Hawaiian
• And so much more!

So fire up the stove. Tonight’s pizza pizza pizza night!

About the Author

Sara Haas, RDN, LDN, is a professional recipe developer, food photographer and freelance writer based in Chicago, Illinois. Sara has been featured in Eating Well Magazine, Allrecipes, Shape Magazine, Parents Magazine, USA Today, The Wall Street Journal, and more. She is also the author of Taco! Taco! Taco! and co-author of The Fertility Foods Cookbook.

# # #

Pizza! Pizza! Pizza!
Written by Sara Haas, RDN
978-1-57826-968-6, $25.00 hardcover

Published by Hatherleigh Press.
Distributed through Penguin Random House.
Available wherever books are sold.
www.hatherleighpress.com

Thankful and Grateful - The Storm of 2024

We are still digging out and cleaning up but we are so thankful and grateful that we are okay. I am a firm believer in it could always be worse. 

Thursday a freak unprecedented storm swept through my small community had my family and others running for cover, knocking down trees left and right, smashing through roofs, taking out all our power lines and devastating many. We were the lucky ones. 

I woke early to get to work as usual. My hours are from 7:30 but I tend to get there a half hour to an hour early because I hate jumping in the deep end of the pool when I first get to work. Wading in is better for my head and my soul. When I backed out of the driveway at 6:38 I took a photo of my house for my husband. He was asleep inside and the house looked beautiful. All the colors were amazing. Our Memorial Day flag was up, our normal flag was blowing, the trees were in full bloom, flowers so pink. It was just amazing.

At 7:15 I saw it getting really dark at work and went outside to watch this crazy rain storm sweep across the sky. I watched these crazy clouds start closing out any lightness. I called a co-worker to watch the storm with me. She told me there was too much lightening and I should head inside. At 7:20 I started walking into the building when I received a text from my daughter. “R U Okay?”

I turned away from coworkers and called her. “Mom we are having a tornado.” I can hear my husband’s voice it is shaky. They are telling me there is a lot of rain and to take cover because they were now getting hail. I told them to keep me in the loop and hung up telling a coworker t what I learned and to check on her family as we are both in the same town. 

Thankfully her family was okay. Mine started sending me pictures. That were devastating.

At 7:18 my husband was drinking his coffee looking out the living room window. He said the clouds were weird colors and stacked like a sandwich. The colors were odd and he remembers saying “that’s weird. Never saw anything like that before. Then the  wind started to kick up and spinning around the yard. All the trees were swaying, a very large tree from in front of us slammed down and he booked down the hallway telling me kids to get downstairs. My daughter had a friend over and she said as they were running down the stairs her friends fingers on hire shoulders were shaking. My husband was yelling, ,they had just opened their eyes to his banging on the door and all they heard was wind, hail and the thumping of trees and pole falling. 

I am so happy that my husband was working from home. If I was getting this message from her and the kids were alone I would have been freaking out. 

They got downstairs near our laundry room which is in the center of the house. 

I will forever be grateful, thankful and blessed that my family, house and the car was spared because my neighbors were not so lucky.

God is good! I was able to work my full day knowing he was with them.

My daughter sent me pictures throughout the day. The took forever to get to me and were poor quality due to WiFi but I got the gist. We were super lucky because it can always be worse and it was for so man

Nothing prepared me for what I saw when I finally got home. It took an hour. Usually it takes me 18 minutes. There were many road closures and still are depending on what they are working on. One road may be open in the morning but closed later so you need to give yourself a lot of time in case of that. 

Buses were hit with trees and trapped. People were taken by ATV home or to the school depending on the situation and thankfully no one was hurt! 

We are in a private community which means we are the responsibility of no township. We are part of a township but because we are not part of the village nor are we anywhere near the township we are part of no one is doing anything. In fact there is a community and a homeowner who were still trapped in their home until yesterday. Disgusting.

We are still cleaning up. My husband and my neighbors cut apart a massive tree that blocked our road with chainsaws, chains, a pick up truck and brute strength. My kids worked over the past few days like no one else each lifting over 1000 pounds of wood, logs and debris.

We are out over $1800 already because unless there is structural damage insurance covers nothing. 

They are saying microburst not tornado while others have confirmed a tornado. Whatever it was it was bad and we are still without cable/WiFi. We got our power back three days later but there are still generators running for the homes that had damage. We were lucky. It can always be worse. 

Spending time with my family over these past few days has been amazing. Everyone stepped up and worked hard. I am grateful! I am thankful! I am blessed!

 The first photo I got when my family opened the front door.

Some pictures I took when I got home

The Psychology of Aging: Maintaining Mental Health and Emotional Well-being

 

Aging is an inevitable process that brings a host of psychological changes and challenges. Maintaining mental health and emotional well-being is crucial for enhancing the quality of life as we grow older. Understanding the psychological aspects of aging and implementing strategies to support mental health can lead to a more fulfilling and independent life in older adulthood.

 

1. Cognitive Changes and Mental Health

Aging can bring about various cognitive changes, including slower processing speeds, reduced memory function, and challenges with multitasking. While these changes are normal, they can be distressing for older adults. 

Engaging in cognitive activities and learning new skills can help to maintain mental sharpness. Additionally, regular physical exercise supports brain health by increasing blood flow and promoting new neural connections.

 

2. Emotional Regulation

Emotional regulation improves with age, as older adults often develop better coping mechanisms and a greater sense of emotional stability. However, the loss of loved ones, retirement, and declining physical health can pose significant emotional challenges. 

Practicing mindfulness and relaxation techniques, such as meditation and deep breathing exercises, can effectively manage stress and enhance emotional well-being. Additionally, therapy and counseling offer valuable support for those dealing with grief, anxiety, or depression.

 

3. Social Connections

Maintaining social connections helps the emotional well-being of older adults. Social isolation and loneliness can lead to significant mental health issues, including cognitive decline. 

Engaging in community activities, joining clubs, and keeping regular contact with friends and family can foster a sense of belonging and purpose. Many people move into care homes like encorecarehomes.co.uk to stay socially active and reducefeelings of isolation.

 

4. Purpose and Meaning

A sense of purpose and meaning in life is crucial for emotional well-being. For many older adults, retirement can lead to a loss of identity and purpose. Finding new ways to contribute and stay active, such as taking up hobbies, mentoring younger generations, or pursuing part-time work, can provide a renewed sense of purpose. Setting goals and having something to look forward to can also boost motivation and emotional health.

 

5. Physical Health and Mental Well-being

Chronic pain, mobility issues, and all sorts of physical ailments can significantly impact emotional well-being. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is essential for both physical and mental health. Additionally, managing chronic conditions effectively and seeking medical care when needed can prevent physical health issues from adversely affecting mental health.

 

6. Resilience and Adaptability

Resilience—the ability to adapt to adversity and recover from challenges—is vital for emotional well-being. Older adults can strengthen resilience by remaining adaptable, seeking social support, and maintaining a positive outlook. Embracing change as an opportunity for growth rather than as a threat can enhance resilience. Participating in activities that promote both mental and physical health, such as yoga, meditation, and social interactions, can also help to build resilience.

 

7. Mental Health Services

Access to mental health services is crucial for maintaining mental health and emotional well-being in older adults. Therapy, counseling, and support groups can provide essential assistance in coping with the psychological challenges of aging. Mental health professionals can help older adults to develop coping strategies, manage stress, and address any mental health conditions that arise.

 

Conclusion

The psychology of aging encompasses various aspects of mental health and emotional well-being. Understanding and addressing the cognitive changes, emotional challenges, and social needs that come with aging is essential for promoting a high quality of life in older adulthood. 

By engaging in cognitive and physical activities, maintaining social connections, finding purpose, managing physical health, building resilience, and accessing mental health services, older adults can maintain their mental health and emotional well-being, leading to a more fulfilling and independent life.