Take a look inside your pantry? Do you have a jar of Nutella in there? You know – that chocolate-hazelnut spread that is good on just about anything from a slice of toast to a vanilla wafer cookie?

In 1964, the Ferrero company began manufacturing Nutella, and since then, Nutella has been a favorite product around the globe. 

On February 5th, you can celebrate this delicious product as it’s Nutella Day! 

Not sure how to celebrate? Well, you can always just grab a spoonful out of the jar – or you can make one of these recipes.

• Homemade Nutella: If you don’t want to buy a container of Nutella at the store, you can always try making your own. It’s surprisingly simple – and you may even like it better than the premade version.
• Nutella Brownies: Brownies are good, but Nutella Brownies are better! You probably have most of the ingredients in your pantry, and this will make an 8-inch square pan – which is just the right amount!
• Nutella Hot Chocolate: Cold weather screams hot chocolate! It’s perfect after some sledding or ice skating, and this recipe will warm you up. You make this hot chocolate in a saucepan on your stovetop, and there are only four ingredients needed.
• Ultimate Nutella Cupcakes: Need a great dessert that’s beautiful and tasty? These Ultimate Nutella Cupcakes are it! They’re filled with Nutella, have a Nutella buttercream frosting, and are topped with a Ferrero Rocher candy. 
• Nutella Banana Bread: Do you have some overripe bananas? Well, you already know that overripe bananas are ideal for making banana bread, but there’s no need to make your traditional banana bread when you can try this recipe. Broma Bakery created a fabulous recipe that’s extremely moist, and you’re going to want a big slice for breakfast or as a snack.
• Chocolate Nutella Cookies: Do you have a little bit of the Cookie Monster in you? Then you must have a Nutella cookie recipe to satisfy those cravings. A chocolate batter with chocolate chips, Nutella, and hazelnuts make these cookies outstanding.
• Poke Cake with Nutella Hazelnut Spread: Short on time, but want to make a dessert that will impress? This Poke Cake with Nutella Hazelnut Spread will do the job. By using a boxed cake mix, you will save yourself lots of time!
• Nutella Latte: Raise your hand if you love a good latte! Then a Nutella Latte may be right up your alley. You’ll be making one every morning and saving yourself some serious money when you don’t stop at your local coffee shop on the way to work.
• Strawberry Nutella Pizza: Dessert pizza is a great way to end a meal, and if you have kids – they are going to love it. Nutella, almonds, and strawberries are terrific together, and you can use store-bought pizza dough if you don’t have time to make your own.
• Banana Nutella Crepes: If you hit any crepe stand in France, you will see Banana Nutella Crepes on the menu. But there’s no need to take a trip to France to enjoy them! With a little practice, you can make the perfect crepes at home and then stuff them with bananas and Nutella.
• Nutella Milkshakes: This Nutella Milkshake has only three ingredients – and it’s a must-make – because it tastes so good, and it’s so easy to whip up!
• Nutella Cheesecake: This is another show-stopping dessert! It looks beautiful and tastes even better. You will love every decadent bite.

When Nutella was created in 1964, the manufacturers probably never envisioned having a day dedicated to this sweet treat. But February 5th is that day – and these recipes are perfect for celebrating! 

“The desire to create is one of the deepest yearnings of the human soul.” — Dieter F. Uchtdorf

Do you consider yourself a creative person? Are you always trying to make something new? Write something new? Get your creative juices flowing?

Or are you a person who wants to be creative but struggles? Do you get stuck in your own head and what you want to happen – well, it just doesn’t happen? 

If you have the desire to be creative, that’s half the battle, but if you find it’s still difficult, here are a few tips to help you find that creative spark!

• Ask Questions: Are you often curious about the things you see around you? Do you have a desire to learn more about…everything? Then use that curiosity to ask questions of…everybody! Asking questions can really help you to be more creative. You can learn about someone’s creative process. You can learn what they’re looking to expand or do differently. And you can take what you learn and apply it to what you want to do creatively.
• Seek to Become an Expert in Something: Are you an expert in something creative? Do people look to you for help or answers when it comes to a specific creative endeavor? If the answer is no, try to become an expert in the creative area you love. This forces you to be constantly innovating and keeping up with the current trends. It also allows others to come to you to “pick your brain” or challenge your thinking – which is always good for the creative spirit.
• Be Open to Opportunities: With creativity comes opportunities. Be open to exploring the opportunities that come your way. Does someone who works in music want you to use your writing abilities to write a song? Go for it! Is there a new coffeehouse that wants to commission you for new art? Yes!! Do it! Opportunities are everywhere!
• Keep a List of Ideas: Always keep a notebook handy, so you can jot down ideas that pop into your brain! You don’t want them to fade away as they can be useful later down the line.
• Think Like a Child: Do you know who seems to have endless creativity? Children! Bring out your inner child when you’re feeling not-so-creative. You might be surprised at what happens.
• Reach Out to Creative People: If you’re not an expert or you’re exploring different creative avenues, reach out to creative people who may be able to help you. They can offer advice, ideas, or just some conversation – which may be all you need to be more creative.
• Practice Being Creative: Some people think that creativity “just comes to you.” But, it truly does take practice. A writer isn’t immediately a good writer without practicing. An artist isn’t a great artist without practicing. Take the time to practice your craft.
• Go Outside Your Comfort Zone: You’ve probably heard people say, “Get outside of your comfort zone, and you’ll find that’s where the magic happens.” For creatives, this is especially true. By trying new things and pushing your boundaries, your creativity will grow.
• Change Up Your Routine: People are creatures of habit – even creative people. You might work on your creative project at the same time or in the same place. Make a change in your routine, and you may see a change in your creativity.
• Take a Break: And sometimes, you just need to take a break. Maybe you’ve been trying too hard or for too long. Stop for a bit and then come back to it. You may find your creativity has returned – and you’re ready to go.

Creativity definitely ebbs and flows, but if you need help finding your creativity again, try some of these tips. You could find yourself back doing your passion – and doing it well – in no time at all.

Is your slow cooker in a cupboard somewhere and not getting the use it deserves? Then it’s time to dig it out! January is National Slow Cooker Month (yes, it’s a real thing) – and if you haven’t been using your slow cooker as much as you’d like – this is the month to do so.

Slow cookers have been around for a while, and they have a ton of benefits:

• You can set it and forget it before you leave for work and come home to a hot meal
• Easy clean up as you often just dump all of your ingredients for a complete meal into the slow cooker
• A slow cooker can help tenderize less expensive cuts of meat due to the extended cook time
• The longer cook time also tends to bring out more of the flavors in your food
• A slow cooker does not use as much electricity as your oven

Are you ready to get cooking? Here are some slow cooker recipes you may want to try!

• Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon: This classic French dish is perfect for the winter months. It’s warm and comforting, and you’ll love how tender the meat turns out. Plus, it has all of your veggies and a delicious sauce! 
• Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken: This chicken dish is both sweet and spicy and cooks up so well in your slow cooker that you’ll be making it over and over again. Serve it with some steamed broccoli and brown rice. 
• Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken: This is another flavorful chicken dish that could be served over rice, or grab some rolls and make it into a sandwich. 
• Slow Cooker Chili: If there was ever a dish that should be made in a slow cooker – it’s chili. And, while everyone seems to have a chili recipe they love or a few additional ingredients that they add to their recipe, this is a great recipe to get you started. Use this recipe as your base and adjust to fit your tastes. (If you’ve never added smoked kielbasa to your chili – give it a try!)
• Slow Cooker Chicken Marsala: Do you only eat Chicken Marsala when you’re out to eat? Well, no more! Make it in your slow cooker! Your slow cooker will create a fabulous sauce for you to pour on your chicken and mushrooms – and over some mashed potatoes (should you be so inclined)
• Easiest Salsa Verde Chicken: When Skinnytaste entitled this recipe “Easiest Salsa Verde Chicken,” – they weren’t kidding! Just throw the ingredients in the slow cooker and walk away. You can use this chicken for tacos, burritos, or rice bowls – and everyone will love it.
• Slow Cooker Barbecue Ribs: Do you think of ribs as a summertime dish? Well, if you’ve been craving them during the winter months, give this slow cooker recipe a try. They will be fall-off-the-bone tender! 
• Slow Cooker Butter Chicken: Grab the rice and the naan, and make this recipe when you need some tasty Indian food and don’t want to do takeout. The slow cooker really helps the flavors develop!
• Slow Cooker Pesto Chicken Risotto: Risotto is a pain to make on the stovetop – but you won’t think it’s such a pain when you make it in your slow cooker. This one doesn’t even have to be stirred until you’re ready to eat! 
• Slow Cooker Spaghetti and Meatballs: Even spaghetti and meatballs can be made in your slow cooker. You actually cook the pasta right in your sauce – so there’s no need to dirty an extra pot. Toast up some garlic bread and make a salad and you are set!

When the weather gets cold, warm up your kitchen with these delicious slow cooker recipes. Which ones are you looking forward to trying?

Have you heard the term: brain fog? SteadyMD says: Brain fog may not be a medical condition but its symptoms can prevent you from concentrating, recalling memories, and can lead to mental fatigue. SteadyMD goes on to say: Brain fog is the inability to have a sharp memory or to lack a sharp focus. You just really feel like you’re not yourself and you’re unable to think clearly.

And everyone has probably experienced brain fog at one time or another. So what can you do to help keep your brain sharp? Well, quite a few things, actually! Here are a few suggestions that you can try.

• Always Be Learning: Studies have shown that lifelong learners seem to retain their mental acuity better. So, does lifelong learning mean you need to go back to school? No…not unless you want to! It means you should challenge your brain to learn new things. It could be a new hobby (such as knitting) or a foreign language. You could go online and learn to code. You probably have a wide variety of things that interest you – so take the time to learn! 
• Engage All of Your Senses: You have heard the phrase, “Use it or lose it!” Well, that phrase applies to learning and your senses. When you use all of your senses to learn something or process something, your memory will retain that information better. Think about tasting a new dish. If you were only to taste it, you might not be able to figure out what exactly it’s made of. But, when you look at it and smell it – you are engaging more of your senses and will be more successful in figuring out the components of the dish. 
• Exercise: Exercise seems to be essential to many things – including keeping your brain sharp. Because of the mind-body connection, exercise definitely benefits your brain. This doesn’t mean you need to be running 10 miles each day. Studies have shown that a simple walk each day can improve your cognitive skills.
• Read: Since you were young, people have probably encouraged you to read – that’s because it does so much good for your brain. Studies have shown that people who continue to read as they age have better memories than those who don’t. So pick up a book or join a book club – and read!
• Eat a Healthy Diet: Like exercise, our diet has a definite mind-body connection. Maintain a healthy diet to keep your brain at its sharpest. 
• Get a Good Night’s Rest: How do you sleep each night? Do you toss and turn, or do you sleep soundly? Those who get a good night’s rest experience less “brain fog.” Need some help with your sleep? Here are 17 tips to help you sleep better at night.
• Play Games: Games are fun – and they can help keep you sharp. Maybe you like word games (such as crossword puzzles) or strategy games (such as mancala) or social games (like bridge or poker) – it makes no difference – just play! You can even have your kids or grandkids teach you how to play video games! Games give your brain a chance to focus on something and stimulate your mind.
• Write Often: Whether you like to pick up a pen and paper or send an email, or, perhaps, even work on your memoir, writing is a skill that keeps your brain active and healthy. 
• Stay Socially Connected: Staying socially connected is also important. Sharing a laugh or talking with your best friend is not only good for your soul but good for your mind.

While there is no cure for Alzheimer’s Disease or dementia, you can work to keep your brain sharp as you age and reduce “brain fog.” These simple tips are easy ways to keep your mind engaged and focused! 

Are you running around humming, “It’s the most wonderful time of the year…”? If the answer is yes, then you probably love everything that the holiday season brings. The decorations. The presents. The food and drinks.

Of course, if consuming holiday foods and drinks is at the top of your list – then you are in luck. There is no shortage of great holiday specialties that come around at this time of year. And while the cookies and sweets may get all the attention, there are some really great drinks you should try, too. 

This year, why not try one of these drinks to make the holidays extra special? You may soon have a new beverage to add to the holiday traditions.

• Easy Grinch Punch: This punch is just as green as the Grinch is – and the kids will love it! Make a big batch in your grandma’s punch bowl and let the kids enjoy this take on a sherbet punch.
• Cranberry Mimosa (Poinsettia): Christmas breakfast or brunch calls for mimosas! And, while you can never go wrong with a traditional mimosa made with orange juice, give this one a try! With its red color, it’s definitely festive – and a nice change!
• Peppermintini: Peppermint is certainly a popular flavor during the holidays, and this Peppermintini is sure to be a hit when you make it. The crushed candy canes around the rim are a fantastic touch!
• White Christmas Margarita: Whoever said that margaritas are a summertime drink is…totally wrong. This White Christmas Margarita has a tropical twist to it – and you’re going to love it!
• White Russian: This is not specifically a holiday drink – but you should bring it out around the holidays. It’s so delicious – and so easy to make!
• Jack Frost Cocktail: Can you really resist trying a blue cocktail? No, definitely not. This Jack Frost Cocktail is an icy shade of blue with a tropical taste to it – which makes it rather surprising when you take a sip! 
• Mistletoe Mules: Grab those Moscow Mule cups and use them this holiday season for Mistletoe Mules. Ginger beer, vodka, lime juice, pomegranate seeds, and a candy cane make this a tasty and pretty drink for the holidays.
• Mulled Wine: Mulled wine is another traditional holiday beverage. This recipe has a great selection of spices in it and will have your entire home smelling like Christmas.
• Homemade Eggnog: Sure, you can buy eggnog in the store, but if you’re feeling adventurous – make it at home. It’s rich, thick, and creamy – and you’re sure to find yourself reaching for a second glass.
• Milk-and-Cookie Shots: These are just plain fun! The kids can fill them up with milk before eating their “glass,” and the adults can fill them with spiked eggnog!
• Simple Rumchata Hot Chocolate: So simple – and so amazing! Rumchata and hot chocolate are a dynamic duo – and are sure to warm you up!
• Hot Buttered Rum: This is the ideal drink to make after spending some time outdoors as it will warm you up! And you probably have most of the ingredients in your frog and pantry.
• Best Irish Coffee: Kate from “Cookie + Kate” shares her Irish coffee recipe – which is a great recipe to have. While it’s quite traditional, there is one twist that makes it unique – maple syrup! And it’s a tasty twist, for sure!
• Gingerbread Cookie Cocktail: Gingerbread is a quintessential holiday flavor – so it only makes sense that there’s a cocktail with similar flavors. This is a great drink to serve with dessert or after dinner – as dessert!

This year, include some special drinks while celebrating the holidays! Whether it’s a special hot chocolate, a punch for the kids, or a seasonal martini, there are some great recipes that will make your celebration a little more festive this year!

When it comes to Thanksgiving Dinner, the turkey is usually the star of the show. Whether you roast it, fry it, smoke it, or sous-vide it, when it hits the table, there are bound to be lots of “oohs” and “aahs.” 

Of course, the Thanksgiving meal is about more than just turkey. The side dishes are equally important – some may even think more important – and they need to be delicious. 

Sure, you could serve up that famous Green Bean Casserole made with canned soup, but here are a few alternatives that may just become family traditions at future Thanksgiving celebrations.

• Swiss Cheese & Green Bean Casserole: This is a fantastic alternative to the traditional Green Bean Casserole served at many Thanksgiving tables. This dish creates a creamy sauce from butter, milk, sour cream, and Swiss cheese. If you love the “old school” green bean casserole – then give this one a try.
• Potato-Leek Gratin: Mashed potatoes may be the gold standard on Thanksgiving, but that doesn’t mean they have to be the only potato on the menu. This gratin is a great alternative – and heats up well the next day when you reheat those yummy leftovers.
• Roasted Honey Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes often get mashed for Thanksgiving, but if you want a really simple recipe that will highlight the sweet potato flavor and not require a lot of effort – this is it. By roasting them, you’ll bring out all of their natural goodness!
• Broccoli Rice Casserole: This recipe combines fresh broccoli, rice, and a fabulous homemade cheese sauce to make a casserole like no other. And it’s an ideal way to get the kids to eat their veggies!
• Balsamic Roasted Pearl Onions: Pearl onions are usually quite mild in flavor, but with the addition of some balsamic vinegar, they become really tangy. And there are only four ingredients needed for the entire recipe – and that includes salt and pepper. Talk about easy to make!
• Easy Brussels Sprouts and Bacon: Brussels sprouts often to get a bad rap – and they shouldn’t. When prepared well, they are delicious! This recipe has just three ingredients – and packs in the flavor! Even someone who insists that they don’t like Brussels sprouts might change their tune when they try these.
• Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese: Every good Southern table has macaroni and cheese on it at Thanksgiving – so why not give it a try? You can bet the kids will love this side dish. Southern-style macaroni and cheese is more custard-style, and contains eggs and evaporated milk – which may be quite different than what you are used to – but it’s a winner!
• Creamy Fresh Baked Corn Casserole: Corn is another vegetable classic, and this creamy baked casserole is simple to make – and perfect if you happened to freeze some corn at the end of summer. 
• Homemade Cranberry Sauce: There’s no shame at all in loving jellied cranberry sauce from the can, but if you want to offer something else – this is the recipe to try. It’s a great combination of sweet and tart! 
• Maple Bacon Carrots: Another delicious 4-ingredient recipe is this one – Maple Bacon Carrots. You’ll be wrapping whole carrots in bacon and then basting them in maple syrup and black pepper. 
• Lunch Lady Cafeteria Rolls: Who remembers those delicious rolls from school lunches? Soft and squishy – and oh-so-yummy! This recipe will bring back those memories, and they’re ideal for sopping up a little extra gravy that might be on your plate.
• Jalapeno Cornbread Muffins: And if squishy rolls aren’t your thing, then try these cornbread muffins. They’re sweet and savory – and when served warm with a pat of butter – there might not be anything better!

This Thanksgiving, don’t let the turkey be the only star of the meal. These sides can definitely hold their own – and your family is going to love them!

Did someone in your home recently get a driving permit?

Did you take the requisite picture in front of the DMV and warn all your friends on social media?

Guess what, that piece of paper means YOU have been given the responsibility of teaching them how to drive.

Are you up for the challenge? 

Because a challenge it will definitely be.

When breaking down all the necessary skills needed to be a competent driver, you’ll realize there’s a lot more to consider than you thought.

But the most important thing to keep in mind is safety. Everything else will come, but safety needs to be a priority…always…and from the very beginning.

To ease you into the frustration of teaching your teen to drive, here are a few things to consider and keep in mind.

Is your child a rule follower or risk taker? Do they get easily distracted? Do they like their music loud? Are they always in a rush? Take these things into consideration as you begin to teach them good habits behind the wheel.

And no matter the act they put on, when your teen starts the car for the first time, they’re going to be nervous.

Their anxiety may cause them to think your helpful advice is actually yelling and criticizing. 

Do your best to watch your tone of voice and remain calm.

Make sure to praise good performance, but don’t be surprised if your teen thinks you’re being sarcastic. As cool as they’re pretending to be, they’re worried about screwing up. 

As much as you’d like to think you’re their driving role model, it’s actually their friends, who happen to be new drivers, as well. Oh, and video games. After all, doesn’t everyone drive like they’re playing the latest version of Grand Theft Auto? 

Basically, your child has no idea what they’re doing. 

But in their mind, one thing is absolutely clear, you’re annoying. But they’ll get over it. 

Things teens find irritating, but you need to still do:

• Reminding them to check their mirrors
• Asking if they know the speed limit
  • Yes, they can see you slyly shifting over in your seat to see the speedometer
  • Even though explaining that it’ll take them much longer to reach their destination if they get pulled over by a police officer than if they’d been going the speed limit makes sense to you, to them, it’s more annoying words coming out of your mouth
• Pointing out the dangers of distractions
  • Changing the music on the radio, eating, rambunctious passengers, interesting things out the window, etc.
  • Cell phones are a major issue
    • Don’t be surprised if your child whips out their phone at a red stoplight, “I’m not actually driving right now, so it’s okay.”
    • All you can do is stress the importance of avoiding distractions, especially cell phones
• Questioning whether they should have stopped or stepped on the gas for the yellow light
• Checking if they’re constantly scanning the road and the traffic up ahead

One of the most stressful skills to teach your child, and something most adults still have difficulty with, is learning that when you turn your head, your hands go the same direction. When your teen looks over their right shoulder, the car will probably kiss the side of the road, and their correction will be a dangerous swerve in the other direction. 

So remember: YOU need to remain calm because they’re freaking out.

Driving is a skill that parents have been teaching children for many years – so you can do this! Just be patient with each other – and wear your seatbelt.

“We dream of having a clean house – but who actually dreams of doing the cleaning?” – Marcus Buckingham

Oh, Marcus Buckingham, you are so right. Everyone loves a clean home, but there are very people who like cleaning. In fact, lots of people spend time procrastinating when it comes to tidying up the house. 

While spending a few moments on the day-to-day cleaning will help keep your home looking good for the most part, are there some areas of your place that you’ve been neglecting? Don’t worry – you’re not alone.

There are some common things that people tend to put off when it comes to cleaning. But, why not make it a priority to hit a few of these places this month? While some are a little more time-consuming than others, here are ten possible things you could tackle when it comes to cleaning.

1. Fans – Whether you have a ceiling fan or pedestal fan, fans are notorious dust collectors. Ceiling fans provide a particular challenge because of their location, but there are some simple solutions to keeping them clean. And, you’ll want to keep your pedestal fan clean because the dust is going to be visible – and who wants to look at that? 
2. Light Fixtures – When was the last time you cleaned your light fixtures? Yes, that includes the ones on your ceiling? If things seem a little darker around your place, it may not be the light bulb that’s dimming – it could mean you need to clean your fixtures. Gather those supplies and go room-to-room, giving them a sprucing up. 
3. Windows – Sunlight is good for you, and if you want to maximize it in your apartment, then make sure your windows are clean. Good Housekeeping has some great tips for making this task as painless as possible. 
4. Refrigerator – What’s in your refrigerator? Have you checked expiration dates? Are there some leftovers that should have been thrown out weeks ago? When was the last time you wiped down all of the shelves and cleaned the drawers? It’s probably time to give it the attention it deserves. Better Homes and Gardens has some tips for cleaning both the inside and the outside.
5. Inside Trash Cans – Sure, you take out the garbage, but is your trash bag always reliable? Probably not. Which means the bottom of your trash cans can be pretty nasty. Learn the best way to clean your trash can – so you won’t have any unpleasant odors hanging around your kitchen.
6. Baseboards – Baseboards don’t get a lot of love, yet they do need some attention. Luckily,  they’re not that hard to do if you keep up with it – and Angela Brown has some good tips. 
7. Closets – Is your bedroom closet stuffed to the max? Are you trying to do more with less? Then it’s time to clean out the closets in your home. Courtney Carver from Be More With Less has some ideas to make the process easier.
8. Dishwasher – Have you noticed that your dishwasher smells a little funky? Well, it may need a cleaning. Yes, you might actually need to clean the appliance that cleans your dishes. But with three easy steps, you can knock this task off your to-do list! 
9. Blinds – Blinds are great for blocking out sunlight and providing privacy, but they are dust collectors, too. Home Depot has some useful tips for cleaning blinds – whether they just need a quick dusting or a heavy-duty clean. 
10. Air Vent Covers – You’ve probably been ignoring your air vent covers for a while. But if you take a closer look, they may be caked with dirt and dust. Emily from Small Stuff Counts teaches you how to clean your vents – so they look like new. 

This month, which of these ten cleaning projects are you going to tackle? No matter if you choose one or two or five, you’ll love the feeling of satisfaction from knowing you completed a task that you might have been putting off for quite a while now. 

Have you been thinking about adding a fur baby to your home? Where are you looking for your new family member? Online? A breeder? A shelter?

If you choose to adopt from a shelter, it’s a win-win-win-win-win-win-win.

Win #1 – You can save an animal from being euthanized

According to the ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals), each year in the United States, approximately 1.5 million animals are put to sleep.

Win #2 – Rescuing an animal helps fight against the cruel practices of puppy and kitten mills

• Show me the money – commercial breeding facilities are all about the money and not the adorable dogs
• According to PAWS (Progressive Animal Welfare Society), roughly 90% of puppies in pet stores come from a puppy mill

Win #3 – Save some money

• The standard adoption fees for pets range from $34-$667
• Compared to the price of some purebred animals, it’s a steal.
• What does the fee usually include?
  • A general physical exam by a veterinarian
  • Age-appropriate vaccinations
  • Spayed/neutered ( Who can forget your favorite host of the Price Is Right! “Help control the pet population and get your pets spayed or neutered.” – Bob Barker)

Win #4 – Selection! Selection! Selection!

Are you interested in a puppy or a kitten? A young dog or an old-timer? Small? Medium? Big? Mellow? Active? Mix-breed? Mutt? Purebred?

Meeting an animal at a shelter provides the opportunity to see if you’re a good fit for them, and they’re a good fit for you.

In the case of puppies versus older dogs, consider the following:

• Do you have time to housetrain a puppy? Most adults come already trained.
• What is your activity level? Puppies definitely have a lot of energy.
• Puppies take a lot of time and commitment to train – some adult dogs already know a few commands.
• Adult dogs are usually past the age of destroying furniture, chewing/nipping/biting, jumping up on people, accidents, barking.

You may be wondering how animals find themselves in a shelter.

• Lack of time – some people feel they can’t give the animal the amount of attention it needs and deserves
• Money – there are expenses to having a fur baby – some are unexpected – a loss of a job or home can cause financial constraints that make it difficult to provide for a pet
• Change of address – moving to a new home means a new environment that may or may not be suitable for a pet
• Divorce

By adopting a pre-loved animal, you give them a second chance in life.

Win #5 – Stay Active and Social

• With a pet at your side, you will never again have a sedentary life.
• It will come as no surprise that dogs need walks, which means you’re getting one
  • It is almost impossible to walk a dog without someone taking notice – which means social interaction for you
• What about cats? Some enjoy playing fetch or chasing a feather. And carrying around a cat, depending on the size and duration, can build muscle.
• Your social media will blow up with pics of your new family member

Win #6 – Good for Mental Health

• Psychology Today suggests that “animals can provide a sense of calm, comfort, or safety and divert attention away from a stressful situation and toward one that provides pleasure.”
• Pets are great for emotional support, which is why so many doctors are suggesting them as a way of providing a calming presence.

Win #7 – It’s All About the Love

• Pets provide unconditional love
• When you look into your new best friend and family member’s eyes, your life will be forever changed for the better.

Visit a shelter and bring a new fur baby into your home. These seven reasons should be enough to convince you it’s a great idea!

Have you ever thought, “I can be more than who I am right now”? Do you feel like something is missing, but you’re not sure what? Are you unsatisfied with who you are?

It might be time to take a closer look at yourself. Those with courage are willing to look, examine, and do what’s necessary to improve.

“The goal is not to be better than the other man, but your previous self.” – The Dalai Lama

Here are seven suggestions to help you grow as a person and some simple things that can help you be the person you want to be!

1. Be grateful – every day

• • Keep a journal of things you’re thankful for
  • Consider the big and small things – such as caring friends/family and watching a butterfly land on a flower

2.   Expose yourself to new information

• • Read an inspirational book or blog
  • Watch TED talks – they’re usually about twenty minutes long
  • Listen to podcasts
  • Research topics that interest you

“Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better.” – Maya Angelou 

3.   Take a positive approach to life

• • Has someone from the past recently crossed your mind? Get in touch with them
  • Be kind to others – life’s all about the little things – think about how you can make someone else’s day better, if only for a few minutes
  • Adopt a positive mindset
  • Believe in yourself
  • Use positive self-talk and be kind to yourself

“Optimism is a strategy for making a better future. Because unless you believe that the future can be better, you are unlikely to step up and take responsibility for making it so.” – Lucille Ball  

4.   Make difficult changes/choices

• • Ask for honest feedback – you may feel vulnerable, so make sure you chat with someone who truly has your best interest in mind 

“We all need people who will give us feedback. That’s how we improve.” – Bill Gates 

• • Acknowledge your flaws and find a way to address them
  • Quit a bad habit
  • Face a fear
  • Forgive – others and yourself
  • Right some wrongs
  • Avoid negative people

5.   Do positive things for your body

• • Get outside – the fresh air and Vitamin D will lift your spirits
  • Drink water
  • Get enough sleep
  • Eat healthy foods
  • Meditate
  • Be mindful
  • Practice self-care
  • Exercise
  • Take a break

“If your body’s not right, the rest of your day will go all wrong. Take care of yourself.” – V.L. Allineare

6.   Do something new

• • Find a hobby
  • Take a course – it can be in a traditional school setting or a seminar/workshop
  • Step outside your comfort zone – What have you always wanted to do but been afraid to try?
  • Learn about a different culture, then make some of their cuisines
  • Pull out your Bucket List and start marking things off (make sure you do them first)
  • Maybe it’s time to tackle your New Year’s resolutions
  • Listen to a new music genre – you might be surprised at what you like

7.   Ask for help

• • We can’t do everything on our own
  • Get a mentor or life coach
  • Learn from people who inspire you
  • Talk to a counselor
  • Asking for help is a sign of strength

“You get in life what you have the courage to ask for.” – Oprah Winfrey

Improving yourself doesn’t happen overnight. It’s a constant work in progress. Make sure to celebrate your “wins” along the way.

“Continuous improvement is better than delayed perfection” – Mark Twain