Author Lauren

6 Small, Kind Gestures to Make a Big Impact for Random Acts of Kindness Day and Everyday Everywhere you look, you can see moments of kindness. From a friend sending a thoughtful text message to a stranger holding the bus for someone running late or a person paying for someone else’s coffee, acts of kindness happen every day. While these moments can have a monumental impact on the person on the receiving end, they often go unrecognized. In fact, a study published in the “Journal of Experimental Psychology” found that performing acts of kindness improves individual well-being and leads to…

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When the weather is frightfully cold and you need something quick to warm you up, try this recipe for Tomato-Tortellini soup. With only 4 ingredients, you’ll be warm and cozy in no time. For more comfort food ideas, go to www.culinary.net. Watch video to see how to make this delicious recipe! Tomato-Tortellini Soup • 2 14 ounce cans reduced-sodium chicken broth • 1 9 ounce package of refrigerated tortellini • 1 8 ounce tub cream cheese spread with chive and onion • 1 can tomato soup • Fresh chives (optional) 1. In a medium sauce pan bring broth to a…

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A lazy Sunday afternoon cuddled up with family, playing in the rain with your kids and tasting a perfect, sweet treat on a summer day can be some of the simplest yet best parts of life. Recipes that can be made with clean, fresh ingredients in a matter of minutes make some of the best-tasting dishes, snacks and treats. Sometimes keeping it simple is the best route to take as opposed to confusing prep that takes too much time. This Strawberry Mousse, which is made with families in mind, is a perfect recipe to make with your little ones or…

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Happy shoppers, rejoice! January 20th marks the fabulous National Use Your Gift Cards Day, a celebration dedicated to turning those delightful plastic rectangles into treasures and treats. If you’re still holding onto gift cards from holidays past, now’s the time to dust them off and let the shopping spree begin. Join us as we unravel the fantastic world of gift cards and explore the countless benefits they bring to your retail therapy adventures! Don’t forget to check out Living Local’s website where you can grab some gift cards for a great deal! Click here to purchase some local gift cards!…

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As January rolls in, so does a golden opportunity to declutter and revitalize your workspace. National Clean Off Your Desk Day on January 8th is the perfect excuse to kick chaos to the curb and welcome in a fresh start for your office or work-from-home haven. The Clutter Conundrum If you find yourself navigating through a sea of papers, pens, and random knick-knacks just to locate your coffee mug, it might be time for a desk intervention. A cluttered desk isn’t just an eyesore; it can wreak havoc on your focus and efficiency. Clearing off the excess stuff can make…

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Without a little prep work and routine maintenance, winter weather can wreak havoc on your home. Following a few simple steps can help you avoid frozen pipes, drafty rooms and slippery sidewalks. 1. Clear Gutters – Melting snow will have nowhere to go if gutters are clogged with leaves and debris. 2. Protect Pipes – Open cabinet doors under kitchen and bathroom sinks so warm air can surround pipes. Drain outside spigots before temperatures drop below freezing. 3. Improve Insulation – Cold air can seep in through openings around windows and doors. Install weather stripping and seal openings with caulk…

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As one season gives way to another, fluctuating temperatures can lead to extreme weather that puts your personal safety and property at risk. Working ahead to anticipate potential problems and put preventive measures in place can give you peace of mind that you’re prepared if disaster strikes. Create Communication Plans Communication is a vital aspect of severe weather planning. If you know a storm is coming, it’s a good idea to charge smartphones so you have access to weather alerts and a direct connection to friends, loved ones and emergency personnel, even if you lose power. You may not have…

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Once the table is cleared and gifts are put away, it’s often time for one of the favorite moments of holiday gatherings. The taste (and smell) of those divine desserts you may only make once a year is enough to keep guests hungry even after the main course. (Family Features) Put a new staple on holiday menus for years to come with this Cran-Raspberry Quinoa Pudding Trifle that combines fresh raspberries, vibrant cranberry sauce, orange juice and orange zest for a unique dessert. Ready in 30 minutes, it can be an easy way to impress everyone at the table with…

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Grocery shopping can be stressful when there are so many options, especially if you’re making a conscious effort to make high-quality food choices while you shop. Arming yourself with a plan and plenty of information can help you make smarter choices and feel good about the meals you prepare for your family. (Family Features) According to the Food Marketing Institute’s Power of Meat Report, 62% of consumers are looking for better-for-you meat and poultry options. Consider these ways you can pick up higher-quality products on your next trip to the grocery store. Make a list and stick to it. Going…

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Putting a delicious, kid-friendly meal on the table in an hour or less is goal No. 1 for many families. When the hectic schedules of back-to-school season are in full effect, saving some precious time in the kitchen can make all the difference. Take a homework timeout and bring loved ones running to the dining room for family favorites like Sweet Heat Pickled Beet Grilled Cheese. This modern take on a childhood classic pairs sourdough bread with brie cheese, a spicy-sweet hit of hot honey and juicy Aunt Nellie’s Diced Pickled Beets. If letting your oven do the work is…

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