5 Tips for Summer Road Trips
For many people, summer means setting out on a road trip in search of bucket-list-worthy excitement or a relaxing vacation. Whether you’re going down the road to visit family or across the country to see a national monument, it is important to prepare your vehicle – and its tires – before you pull out of the driveway. These five safety tips can help get your family ready to hit the road this summer: Check Your Tread – A tire’s tread...
5 Ways to Step Up Date Night Without Breaking the Bank
Most relationship experts agree that making time for date night is important, whether it’s the early days of a blossoming romance or decades into a comfortable marriage. Spending that valuable time together doesn’t have to be expensive as long as you take the time to make it special. Plan your next date with these ideas for low-cost experiences with the one you love: Share time outdoors. Except in the most extreme conditions, there’s...
A Deserved Day for Dad
Whether dad wants to spend his day on the patio, in the garage, on the couch or at a ballgame, Father’s Day is the perfect opportunity to celebrate everything that makes him special to you and your family. Since each dad is a little different, it’s sometimes tough finding just the right gift to put a smile on his face. Whether he’s into a grilled meal, a clean deck or a quality shave, these products are ideal for all types of fathers....
Cool Summertime Kitchen Hacks
Summer is a time for relaxing, enjoying the outdoors and spending time with family and friends. Yet for some, the warmer months can be hectic and busy, and often go by too quickly. When the little ones have soccer practice and the adults need some alone time by the pool, there isn’t always time to prepare a home-cooked meal or toil away in the kitchen. Ideal summertime meals, snacks and drinks should be refreshing, light, delicious...
How To Inspire Summer Reading
How to Inspire Summer Reading While summer is the perfect time for kids to take advantage of days spent away from the classroom, remember not to put valuable skills, like reading, on the backburner. In fact, research estimates that 1-2 months of learning loss can occur during the summer months. To help your child maintain his or her reading level and avoid the “summer slide” – which can be counteracted in part by reading 20 minutes a...
DNA Demystified
Genetic testing involves examining your DNA—the chemical database that carries instructions for your body’s functions—and can reveal changes (mutations) in your genes that may, or may not, cause diseases. The chances of you or your children inheriting some genetic mutation depends on a variety of factors including your parents’ genes, your genes, the disease itself, and mathematical odds. Why test? Genetic testing plays a vital role...
Summer Camp Round-Up
It’s time to think about the kids getting active Most adults have fond memories of summer camp. Camp was a time for broadening our horizons, for learning outside the box, making friends, and having good, old-fashioned fun. Those epheme ral days or weeks of camp each summer, promised a lifetime of memories and friendships. And it usually delivered. Now it’s our turn to offer those same irreplaceable adventures to our kids. The benefits...
Time for a Test Drive
Get behind a different wheel this month Here’s a stat that might surprise you. Only one out of every three people who go out to test drive a car know what they want ahead of time, and more than half of all test drivers buy the first car they take for a spin. People are actually more likely to try on two or three pairs of shoes than test drive two or three cars before bringing one home. But the truth is that there is more difference...
Jeans + Scenes
If outdoor expeditions are in the mix, odds are that you’re going to reach for a trusty pair of durable jeans. But we’ve come a long way from the workhorse denim of the past. From road trips to nature walks to a day at the ranch, these punched-up pairs will leave you feeling confident that your look is all buttoned up. Chelsea & Violet Cropped Flare, $88 Aberdeen Thrift Hi-Rise Frayed Hem Denim, $138 Gianni Bini Gia Embroidered...
Tips for Keeping Your Busy, Adventurous Family Safe
Families are seemingly always on the go. From soccer games and school trips to excursions with friends and vacations with the family, people are constantly on the move, exploring new places and experiencing new things. In fact, a study by Sfara Guardian shows that kids today are using public transportation, going on field trips and taking long-distance road trips at much younger ages compared to 30 years ago. As exciting as these...
Spring into Lawn and Garden Care
If cooler weather has you longing for sunny days outdoors, take heart. Once spring rolls around, you can safely begin the annual cleanup to prepare your yard for months of warm-weather enjoyment. Start by evaluating your lawn. Look for bald spots where grass has grown sparsely and needs reseeding, or uneven areas that may need to be filled and leveled. Before you take steps to correct any problems, you’ll need a clean slate....
Brunch Made Easy
Gathering friends and family doesn’t need to be fancy. With its prime positioning between breakfast and lunch, brunch is a more casual and lighter alternative to the typical dinner party. When charged with hosting a mid-day gathering, a little pre-planning can go a long way toward ensuring your brunch get-together is as simple as it is scrumptious. Get creative with decor. When prepping your tablescape, think outside the box....
Appetite For Adventure
From your own hometown to the far reaches of the globe, there are thousands of destinations just waiting to be discovered by adventurous souls. Satisfying your itch to get out and explore may take you across town or across the ocean, but adhering to some common principles can make your travels extra rewarding. Step outside your comfort zone and try new things, be it zip lining or sampling an unfamiliar food. Follow your instincts,...
3 Kitchen and Bath Trends for 2018
When it’s time for a home remodel, specifically of a bathroom or kitchen, many homeowners turn to trendy looks as inspiration. Color, texture and material variance, like using different types of tile, lead the way in this year’s kitchen and bath trends. To help amplify the look and appeal of your space, consider these tips from the experts at the National Association of the Remodeling Industry: Try Different Shades White...
Digging into Earth Day
Picture it. The year was 1970. Elvis Presley visited President Richard Nixon in the White House. Vietnam War protests raged. The Beatles broke up. PBS began broadcasting. And, on April 22, just five days after Apollo 13 splashed down safely, the first Earth Day celebration took place (though the original Earth Day was more of a series of anti-pollution demonstrations than a celebration). Earth Day Trivia That’s Far from Trivial •...
Living Lavishly Outdoor With 2018 Trends
Living Lavishly Outdoors with 2018 Trends As many families prepare to ramp up their time spent outside, it can be helpful to keep the latest trends in mind while planning for outdoor living spaces. According to research from the International Casual Furnishings Association, many people use outdoor rooms for things they can do indoors – from using cellphones for calls and games to working on computers, watching TV, eating, exercising...
Reserve the Rind
Reserve the Rind Watermelon rinds make for more than just attractive containers for serving cold dishes and beverages. The rind can also be used in creative, edible ways and is good for your heart. Watermelon, both the flesh and the rind, is a good source of a compound called citrulline, an amino acid that raises levels of arginine in the blood, which in turn helps maintain blood flow, healthy blood vessels and heart health. Whether...
Spring Home Upgrade Ideas
Spring Home Upgrade Ideas After a long winter cooped up indoors, spring is the perfect time to start re-imagining your home and making upgrades that create a fresh, welcoming vibe. These project ideas – some big, some small – can help breathe new life into your home so you’re ready to enjoy your favorite rooms to the fullest. Air it out Months of closed windows and doors can make any room feel dusty and stale. As soon as temperatures...
Find Out The Truth About Tap Water
Find Out the Truth About Tap Water While the tap water you drink may look clean, it may contain harmful contaminants like lead, pesticides and industrial pollutants. These and others may be picked up on the journey from your water treatment plant through miles of pipes to your home. To help clear up any misconceptions about what’s really in your water, the experts at PUR offer this myth-busting advice: Myth: Living close to a fresh...
5 Ways to Boost Wi-Fi
5 Ways to Boost Home Wi-Fi In today’s connected world, it’s almost unthinkable to function without an internet connection, and for practical purposes most households need wireless connectivity for everyone to fully enjoy their internet-enabled devices, including smartphones, laptops, tablets, televisions, thermostats, security cameras and even refrigerators. However, with the growing number of devices requiring access to your network,...
Transform Your Bathroom into the Ultimate Paradise
These simple tips and tricks from lifestyle and parenting expert Jordan Reid of Ramshackle Glam can help you transform your bathroom into a spa-like oasis without undergoing a major renovation.
Spring into Lawn and Garden Care
Once spring rolls around, you can safely begin the annual cleanup to prepare your yard for months of warm-weather enjoyment.
Budget-Friendly Spring Break Getaways
Spring is the perfect time for a vacation. Shake off the doldrums of winter as you transition toward fresh beginnings and warmer days.
Festive Fun for St. Patrick’s Day
Turn your St. Patrick’s Day celebration into a chance to enjoy Irish heritage with hearty foods and a lively atmosphere.
5 Ways to Make an Impact on Children
Considering opportunities that can change the lives of kids is one way to make a lasting impact for generations to come.
The Big Day
The truth is that while being engaged and planning a wedding is a beautiful time of life, it’s not always the most fun or romantic.
Put More You into Your Wedding Day
Even with all the traditional rituals to consider, nearly every bride and groom can find ways to give their special day some unique touches that reflect their personality and love.
Love is in the Air – Every Day!
Chocolates? Roses? Been there, done that. Here are some easy and fun ways to prove that he or she is number one in your book.
Kitchen and Bath Remodeling Trends to Watch
Investing thousands of dollars in a kitchen or bathroom remodel can be daunting, but it doesn’t have to be.
6 Ways to Fight the Flu
As temperatures drop, the spread of cold and flu germs rises. Start the year off healthy and be sure to rid your home of lingering germs that may be hiding in places you don’t expect.
Spoon Up Tradition
When cooler temperatures call for something to warm you up, good, old-fashioned soups and stews may be just what you need.
3 Ways Pups Can Improve Seniors’ Health
The old saying goes, “dogs are man’s best friend,” and research shows they may be more than that.
Simple Ways to Make Healthy Lifestyle Choices
When it comes to creating a healthy lifestyle, some recommendations are fairly simple, such as exercising regularly and eating right. Many people, however, don’t know how much exercise they should get or which foods are the best choices.
Find Your Influence Style this Year
The ability to influence those around you is a key leadership skill.
Keep Cool-Weather Clothes Looking Fresh
Cooler weather often brings busier schedules – balancing family activities, daily chores and holiday festivities – but it is also a time when you want to look your best.
Empowering Teens through Smart Spending
Helping teens learn to handle money can be a tricky proposition. Mistakes can quite literally be costly, but there’s really no substitute for hands-on practice when it comes to managing finances.
How to Prep Your Pup for Winter
The colder months are approaching, and it’s not uncommon to lessen focus on diet and exercise, and the same goes for furry friends during the cooler seasons. To keep your pup healthy this winter, it’s important to establish proper nutrition habits – which start by feeding your pet the right type of food. “Whether it’s the increase in holiday parties or the decrease in temperature, healthy eating routines...
7 Ways to Plan for Cold and Flu Season
Declining temperatures can bring fun, cool-weather activities, but they also mean cold and flu season is lurking.
Holiday Giving for the Whole Family
Part of the magic of the holiday season is making wishes come true, not only for your loved ones but for others in the community, too.
Obalon – An Easy Pill to Swallow
Innovative new Obalon balloon procedure helps deflate weight without drugs, diets, or surgery
Throw a Christmas Cookie Party
The next best thing to baking cookies for many home chefs is baking cookies with friends. Dust off your favorite recipes, create a festive playlist and fill your home with the tantalizing aroma of baked goodies for the ultimate Christmas cookie party. Turn things up a notch and swap classic sugar cookies for these festive Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies, Peppermint Truffle Cookies and Almond Gingerbread Cookies. Along with those tasty...
Tidbits & Traditions
A look at some holiday fun facts—and a few ideas for starting some new traditions
Assisting Family with Assisted Living
Knowing when it’s the right time, together—and hearing everyone out
Kindness in the Wake of Destruction
The country bands together to help flood victims in Texas after Hurricane Harvey drenches coast
Post-Hurricane Check List
Now that the winds have died down and the water has subsided, let’s all take a deep breath and remember… people are what matters.
Texas’ own underdog is back with Vaquero: a personal, independent follow-up
Texas singer-songwriter Aaron Watson’s newest album, Vaquero, is a fitting title for the hard-working cowboy. Living caught up with him just prior to the album’s release last month to ask about Vaquero, the follow-up to his indie success story, 2015’s The Underdog. Living Magazine: Aaron, you’ve cut your own path in the country music industry. While being an independent artist and making your own records, you have also garnered huge...
The Truth About Botox and Migraines
Unless you know someone who suffers from chronic migraines, it’s difficult to understand how deeply painful and severe this form of headache can be. Sometimes called “sick headaches,” migraines are often accompanied by nausea and sensitivity to light and sound, along with other debilitating symptoms. Around 91 percent of chronic migraine sufferers miss work or can’t function normally during a migraine attack, and can end up in the...
Bidet Today!
If you’re like most Americans, you probably have a nebulous concept of what a bidet is, perhaps from tales passed down like legends via friends or family, a scene in a movie or TV show, or maybe a bizarre anecdote shared around on social media. For whatever reason, be it our stigma against discussing personal hygiene or merely a fanatical love of toilet paper, the bidet in America is more often regarded as a weird device from distant...
Protecting Yourself from Medical Identity Theft
We’ve all heard the horror stories. Criminals strike from the shadows, stealing personal information and gaining access to our accounts, our contact information, and our medical records. We’re talking about identity theft—specifically medical identity theft. According to the Fifth Annual Benchmark Study on Privacy and Security of Healthcare Data by the Ponemon Institute, the major cause of sensitive data compromise for the past few...
Petpalooza!
February is Responsible Pet Owners Month, and with love in the air, there’s no better time than now to remember to appreciate and care for your furry family member.
Snowed-In Cinema
Whether you’re actually snowed in or not, there’s nothing quite like curling up inside on a cold day with a cozy blanket and the heater blasting. What better time to enjoy some winter flicks?
HOU51ON
It is the gigantic, unavoidable sports match which humorously is left frequently unnamed in advertising, referred to only with cryptic monikers, lest one claims an association with said event: “game day,” the “big one,” and “the professional football championship” all find themselves top of mind as we move through January. Though at press time we cannot confirm the precise reasons that Texas residents will be particularly interested...
John Tesar
The famously hotheaded Dallas chef stays relevant, but what goes into making one of Dallas’ most influential figures in food?
Cutting Back on the Crazy for Christmas
I’ve been dreading this one for a while. With both of our daughters living in other countries, Christmas 2016 will be the first time my husband and I won’t have all our children home for the holidays. As I’m trying to get myself used to the idea of a Christmas that’s very different from the 25 that came before it, I’m thinking what better time to reevaluate all this Christmas crazy—the unchecked consumerism, the dashing to and fro,...
Women of Adversity
Strong women inspire us, encourage us, and support us. They’re mothers, grandmothers, wives, and caretakers. They overcome adversity in stride and never give up. This month, they share their stories with us.
She Said She Shed!
Women across the country are leaving stress and worry at their very own front doors
Back to Back to School
Preparing for a new school year can be not only exciting but also scary and stressful for you and your child. Here are some tips to make the process go more smoothly and start your school year off right.
The Ageless Student
When Claire Pruner of Bristol, Tennessee turned 35, her children were in elementary school and she was working part time. Realizing that their household expenses would only increase in the coming years, she and her husband, Jon, had a heart-to-heart.
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