Tag: summertime

Safety First When Observing Thunderstorms

June 12, 2016MBEhleAdvice, Seasonal, Summer

Few things grab our attention like a mid-summer thunderstorm. Steamy temperatures and turbulent atmospheric conditions often conspire to produce amazing visual pyrotechnics and house-shaking booms.

Thunderstorms occur when cold upper air descends and warm, moist air rises. When these air masses collide, they form thick cumulonimbus clouds, often referred to as “thunderheads.” Thunderstorms may begin and end in an instant, or several storms may string together to make thunder and lighting clusters.

While thunderstorms can occur during any time of the year, they’re more likely to occur in spring and summer. According to a NASA study, the most intense and powerful thunderstorms occur in the eastern part of the Andes mountains in Argentina. But strong thunderstorms can occur just about anywhere moisture, unstable air and lift (from sea breezes or mountains) causes air to rise up.

Thunderstorms have the potential to cause significant damage and injuries, most notably from lightning strikes. It’s always wise to seek shelter during a thunderstorm so you are protected from lightning, falling limbs from trees and hail, which often accompanies thunderstorms.

Despite thunderstorms’ harmful potential, they can be very enjoyable to watch or chase. But storm spectators should keep these tips in mind.

· Watch thunderstorms from the safety of indoors. It may be tempting to be out in the storm, but if you head outside during a storm, you are risking injury or even death. Consider watching a storm from the comfort of inside a garage, where you can leave the door open and see, hear and smell the storm while it comes through.

· Keep flashlights or candles handy. Strong storms can knock out power. Always have a backup light source readily available in case the power goes out. Also, you may need a battery-powered radio or a charged mobile phone at the ready to keep up on storm alerts.

· Keep pets in an interior room so they do not get too spooked. Thunderstorms frighten many animals, so pets should not share in your storm-watching endeavors. They may injure themselves trying to escape the noise. It’s best if pets are kept in a quiet, dark space until the storm has ended.

· Steer clear of standing bodies of water. Downed power lines may leach electricity through puddles, potentially causing electrocution if people are standing in puddles. Do not touch any wires that seem suspicious. Water is an easy conduit for lightning, so avoid any bodies of water during a thunderstorm.

· If you’re caught in a thunderstorm and don’t have indoor shelter, do not seek shelter under trees, which can attract lightning strikes. Accuweather.com advises that people who cannot find reasonable shelter after a storm should take steps to minimize their risk of being struck or injured. Crouch as low to the ground as you can, but do not lie down on the ground or put your hands down. Stay on just your feet to cover as little ground as possible. You also want to be as low as you can to reduce your risks of being a lightning target. Keep anything that is a good electrical conductor away from you.

Summer weather is bound to include some thunderstorms. Where there is thunder, there’s lightning, and remember to stay safe by watching these storms from a distance and making smart choices.

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Travel Can Be Fun & Eco-Friendly, Too

June 5, 2016MBEhleAdvice, Healthy, Organize, Projects

Many people go to great lengths to adhere to eco-friendly lifestyles at home. That devotion to the environment may or may not continue when those same people travel, but it is entirely possible for travelers to take their eco-conscious behaviors with them on the road.

Whether traveling for personal or professional reasons, travelers can implement a handful of simple strategies to reduce their carbon footprints while away from home.

· Rent a hybrid or eco-friendly vehicle. If you will be renting a car during your trip, book a hybrid vehicle or a small, fuel-efficient model to cut back on fuel consumption. Many vehicles are now equipped with “eco mode,” a feature that typically forces the transmission to upshift sooner than it normally would in an effort to conserve fuel. Cars in eco mode may seem somewhat sluggish, but that sluggishness is actually the eco mode doing its job. It might take some getting used to, but driving in eco mode can help travelers reduce their vehicles’ fuel consumption.

· Reuse towels at the hotel. Many hotels now ask guests to reuse towels in order to conserve water. Guests who want to make their hotel stays as eco-friendly as possible should work with hotels and reuse their towels for as long as possible. If visiting a resort, try to use the same pool or beach towel for as long as possible as well.

· Patronize restaurants that offer locally grown foods. Another way to be eco-friendly when traveling is to eat your meals at restaurants that use only locally grown foods and ingredients. Eating local reduces the need to transport foods across long distances, cutting back on fuel costs as a result. In addition, proponents of eating local foods insist that locally grown foods taste fresher than foods brought in from afar.

· Use mass transportation. When possible, use mass transportation rather than relying on taxis or car services. Take a bus or train from the airport to your hotel, and ride the subway or just walk when sightseeing. Many travelers insist that riding mass transportation when visiting a city provides a much more realistic experience of life in that city than traveling by cab or driving alone.

Travelers need not leave their eco-friendly sensibilities at home when traveling.

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Always Practice Summer Sun Safety

June 2, 2016MBEhleAdvice, Cookout, DIY, Healthy, Seasonal, Spring, Summer

When the weather is warm, many people take time to relax at the beach or poolside. While such relaxation can provide a welcome break from busy schedules, it’s important that men, women and children prioritize protecting their skin when spending time in the sun.

According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, basal cell carcinoma, or BCC, is the most common form of skin cancer. The American Cancer Society notes that each year there are more new cases of skin cancer in the United States than the combined incidences of cancers of the breast, prostate, lung and colon. Despite that prevalence, many people still engage in risky behaviors in the name of outdoor enjoyment. Being safe in the sun won’t take anything away from enjoyable outdoor activities, but exercising such caution will help summer revelers reduce their risk for skin cancer and other conditions.

· Know the risks of UV exposure. Sunlight is needed to engage vitamin D production in the body, but too much sun exposure can do more harm than good. Ultraviolet, or UV, rays from the sun and other sources, such as tanning beds, are the primary cause of skin cancer. Exposure also can lead to sunburns, premature aging/wrinkling and eye damage.

· Use only broad-spectrum SPF sunscreen. Look for a sunblock product that boasts an SPF of at least 30. The FDA requires any sunscreen with an SPF below 15 to carry a warning that it only protects against sunburn, not skin cancer or skin aging. Find a sunscreen that works against UVA and UVB rays as well. UVA rays are mostly responsible for contributing to skin cancer and premature aging. Reapply frequently, especially when swimming or engaging in activities that cause sweating.

· Know the difference between water-resistant and waterproof sunscreens. Manufacturers are no longer allowed to claim that their sunscreens are waterproof or sweatproof. A sunscreen may be able to repel water for a short time, but it should be reapplied when leaving the water or when spending long stretches in the water.

· Cover up whenever possible. It may seem counterintuitive in hot weather, but covering up can be beneficial to the skin and actually keep a person cooler. Wear wide-brimmed hats, long-sleeve tops and light-colored pants. Some materials are made with reflective properties, while others actually boast their own SPF.

Summer fun does not need to be threatened by overexposure to the sun. By exercising caution, everyone can spend quality time in the great outdoors all summer long.

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Homemade Ice Cream Makes for the Perfect Summer Treat

May 22, 2016MBEhleCookout, DIY, Healthy, Recipes, Seasonal, Summer

Ice cream is synonymous with summer, when rising temperatures and vacations from school and work call for some refreshing celebration. Those who want to experiment with homemade ice cream may want to consider the following recipe for “Dulce de Leche Ice Cream” from Lou Seibert Pappas’ “Ice Creams and Sorbets” (Chronicle Books).

Dulce de Leche Ice Cream

Makes about 1 quart

2 cups half-and-half or milk

4 large egg yolks

1/2 cup sugar

12 ounces butterscotch chips, divided

1 cup heavy whipping cream

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Prepare a large bowl or pan of ice water.

In the top of a double boiler, heat the half-and-half over simmering water until steaming. In a bowl, whisk the egg yolks until blended, then whisk in the sugar. Whisk in about half of the hot half-and-half and pour the yolk mixture into the pan of half-and-half. Stir with a silicone spatula or spoon and cook over simmering water for about 8 minutes. Stir in 1 cup of the chips and continue stirring until blended in and the custard coats the back of the spatula, about 2 minutes more. Immediately place the custard pan in the ice bath and stir the custard occasionally until it cools to room temperature. Transfer to a container and stir in the cream and vanilla. Cover and refrigerate until thoroughly chilled, about 3 hours.

Freeze in an ice cream maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions. When the ice cream is almost frozen, add the remaining 1 cup chips and churn until blended in, about 15 seconds more. Transfer to a container, cover and freeze until firm, about 2 hours.

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Begin Planning Kids’ Summer Recreation Now

April 28, 2016MBEhleAdvice, Seasonal, Summer

Many families spend winter figuring out how to chase away cabin fever and endure frigid temperatures until spring and summer mercifully return. Parents thinking ahead to swimming pools and days lounging on the beach can put their daydreams to practical use by planning ahead for their youngsters’ summer vacations.

Youth recreational programs and summer camps can bridge the gap in care between the end of school and the day when classes resume. Due in part to high demand, parents who want to place their kids in summer rec programs or summer camps should being vetting such programs and camps well in advance of summer. The following are a handful of tips for moms and dads who want their kids to have fun and fulfilling summers.

· Ask for recommendations. Speak with fellow parents and trusted friends about where they send their children. Personal recommendations can be very helpful, providing firsthand insight into a particular camp or program. Schedule appointments to visit camps that fall within your budget. Take your son or daughter along so he or she can get a sense of what camp will be like.

· Explore all options. Camps come in more flavors than ever before. Certain camps may be faith-based ministries while others may focus on particular sports. Band camps and art camps may appeal to creative kids. Also, there are plenty of general-interest camps that offer various activities without narrowing in on any particular one. Parents may need to choose between a sleepaway camp or day camps, depending on which camp experience they want for their children.

· Inquire about camp schedules. While many camps are flexible, day camps do not have the same level of flexibility as after-school programs. Arrangements will need to be made if care is required after regular camp hours. Speak with camp staff to see which types of after-hours programs, if any, are available.

· Determine your camp budget. As varied as program offerings may be, camps also can vary greatly with regard to cost. Government-run camps may be less expensive than those offered by private companies. Day camps typically cost less than those that provide room and board. Find out if a particular organization subsidizes a portion of camp costs. Scouting programs often have a dedicated camp and may offer affordable options for scouts. Martial arts schools and dance centers frequently offer camp schedules.

If camp seems out of reach, look into local summer recreation programs at parks or schools. Such programs may not be as extensive as those offered by camps, but they can quell kids’ boredom and keep children occupied during the day.

In addition to camp, remember to plan for some free days so children can just enjoy some downtime. Such days can break up the monotony of a routine and provide kids and families time to relax together.

Summer recreation may be far off, but it is never too early to start making summer plans, including finding camps and other activities for kids. TF162873

Safeguard Yourself from Summertime Accidents & Ailments

July 5, 2015MBEhleAdvice, Garden, Healthy, Lawn, Seasonal

Summer is often marked by vacations, recreational events and relaxing moments spent by the pool or on the beach. But when the weather heats up, so can potential health hazards that can ruin all of the fun. The following are some of the more common summertime ailments and how to avoid them.

· Lawn and garden injuries: Lawn and garden injuries may not be common, but men, women and children should exercise caution when using lawn and garden equipment. Wear protective shoes and gloves and safety goggles. Remember to turn off any motorized tools before attempting to repair or unclog the blades.

· Swimmer’s ear: Water that remains in the ear canal after swimming can make the ear a breeding ground for swimmer’s ear, which is a bacterial infection. If water remains in your ear for more than one night, visit an ear, nose and throat specialist.

· Insect bites and stings: Insects return when temperatures rise. Mosquitoes may be the biggest nuisance, but biting flies and wasps also make formidable foes. Use insect repellent to keep the bugs away. Wear long pants and check for ticks after hiking.

· Boating accidents: Many boating accidents can be attributed to inexperience with the vessel and failure to take proper safety precautions on the water. Make sure everyone on the boat wears a life jacket, and follow proper boating protocol throughout your trip.

· Dehydration: The body needs extra water on hot days, especially when spending ample time outdoors. Dehydration can cause dizziness and dry mouth and may make you feel faint. Always drink plenty of water and avoid alcoholic beverages and soft drinks, which can contribute to dehydration when consumed in excess.

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Sparklers and Safety Risks of Fireworks

July 1, 2015MBEhleAdvice, Seasonal, Summer

Fireworks tend to be most prevalent during the summertime. Elaborate pyrotechnic displays may be part of Independence Day celebrations or other special events. Individuals also may set off fireworks to light up the night skies for private parties.

Although parents will warn children against going too close to fireworks, many do not share the same apprehension about sparklers. Sparklers are thin metal rods that have been dipped in a special, flammable pyrotechnic substance and allowed to dry. When lit, a sparkler will throw off, as the name implies, sparks of twinkling light until the sparkler is extinguished. Sparklers may seem safe for little hands, but like other fireworks, sparklers can be dangerous.

A sparkler can reach 3,662 F (2,000 C) when lit. That is 20 times the boiling point of water, a level of heat that is enough to melt steel. In fact, three sparklers burning together can generate the same amount of heat as a blow torch. The Consumer Product Safety Commission says roughly 240 people visit the emergency room every day in the month of July with fireworks-related injuries.

Common sense should prevail whenever anyone is handling sparklers. If children are allowed to hold sparklers, it should only be under close adult supervision. Other safety tips can help ensure events where sparklers are being used remain injury-free.

· Sparklers should be stored in cool, dry places until they are used.

· Leather gloves can protect hands while sparklers are being lit and held.

· Do not light and hold more than one sparkler at a time.

· Sparklers can stay hot for a while after they have been extinguished. Put the hot end down into a bucket of water when finished.

· Sparklers may not be legal where you live. Know the laws before purchasing sparklers or other fireworks.

· Children under the age of five should never be given sparklers to hold, nor should adults hold a lit sparkler while holding a baby. Glow sticks are safer alternatives for young kids.

· Hold sparklers at arms’ length to avoid burns.

· Do not bring sparklers to public events, as sparklers amid large crowds can pose a safety risk.

· Do not wave or run with lit sparklers.

Sparklers may seem like safe alternatives to more traditional fireworks. But it’s important to exercise caution with sparklers, especially when young children are nearby.

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Favorite Fair Foods

June 28, 2015MBEhleSeasonal, Spring, Summer

State and county fair season has arrived, and that means there will be rides and games galore. While many people are drawn to fairs by the entertainment, just as many are willing to stand in line for the unique and tasty foods that seem to embody fair and carnival fun.

If it can be served on a stick or deep fried, chances are you can find it at a fair. Everything from chocolate-dipped bacon to deep-fried butter may turn up on fair stand menus. The following are some of the more coveted foods revelers can expect to find at their local fairs and carnivals.

· Funnel cake: Funnel cake and it’s close cousin, zeppole, have long been fair favorites. Topped with powdered sugar, funnel cakes can be pulled apart and shared with others.

· Corn dogs: Corn dogs are essentially hot dogs on a stick that have been covered in cornmeal and fried. Like funnel cakes, corn dogs have become so synonymous with fairs and carnivals that few people have ever enjoyed them anywhere outside of their local fairgrounds.

· French fries: French fries are a favorite at fairs, and carnival-goers can choose from savory shoestrings to hearty steak-cut potato chunks.

· Cotton candy: What fair would be complete without a cotton candy vendor? Cotton candy is made by heating up granulated sugar until it is liquified enough to be blown into thin threads. Those threads are collected and wound into a sweet treat that is loved by kids and adults alike.

· Pie: Fair-goers are likely to happen upon a pie-eating contest or pie-tasting tent. Many prefer to indulge in a piece of pie while at the fair, preferring such treats to sweeter, heavier desserts.

· Corn on the cob: Corn on the cob is proof that carnivals and fairs provide some healthy fare for customers in addition to the many decadent treats on display. Corn on the cob is most popular in corn-producing areas and can be the ideal complement to burgers and other fair foods.

· Anything on a stick: Each year fair vendors experiment with culinary oddities that can be served on a stick. One day it may be skewered pork chops and the next a sleeve of cookies. Those who want the full fair experience should consider trying something served on a stick. TF157328

Beat the Heat During Summer Weddings

June 25, 2015MBEhleAdvice, DIY, Seasonal, Summer

May, June and July consistently rank among the most popular months to get married. These months typically provide pleasant weather, and if it does rain, it’s often in the form of a brief thunderstorm.

But summer weather can be extremely hot, and while a sunny, warm day may be perfect beach days, such conditions are not always ideal for weddings, especially weddings that take place outdoors. If wedding-day weather threatens to be very hot, explore these methods to staying cool.

· Choose a later start time. A late-afternoon wedding may be the way to go in the summertime. The temperature usually drops a bit in the early evening, even though the sun won’t set for a couple of hours. That lingering summertime sun allows the bride and groom to enjoy an outdoor ceremony and still take beautiful outdoor photos.

· Rely on shade and proximity to water. Shade can be your friend when the sun is blazing. If your outdoor wedding is in the early afternoon, keep temperatures under wrap by seating guests beneath umbrellas or inside a tent.

· Tie the knot near the water. Breezes off of the water also help combat the heat, so a lakeside or beach wedding can make hot temperatures more manageable.

· Wear breathable fabrics. Opt for lightweight fabrics instead of heavy gowns and full tuxedos for the bride, groom and wedding party. Cotton and linen allow air to flow through clothing, helping people to stay cool. Light colors also will help deflect the sun. Bridal gowns made of chiffon, silk or satin may feel luxurious and help tame the heat.

· Have beverage tables. Keep canisters of cold beverages at the ready so guests can easily quench their thirst. Fresh lemonade, iced tea and water with a few sprigs of mint can help guests ward off dehydration.

· Make fans and hand these out to guests. Homemade fans of thick cardstock and popsicle sticks can keep guests comfortable. Such cards can double as thank-you messages or ceremony programs.

· Tailor the reception menu to the weather. A large, heavy meal may not be what guests are hoping for when temperatures are especially hot. In such situations, provide some cool, light fare, such as chilled salads or cold soups, as first courses. Sorbet can be a cool palate cleanser, and grilled meats and vegetables will make for a satisfying, light main course. Ice cream cake may be a decadent option in lieu of more traditional wedding cake.

· Choose hairstyles and makeup wisely. Brides may prefer up-dos to keep hair off of their necks and allow for breezes to cool their bodies. Rely on makeup primers and powdered foundations so that makeup does not melt in the heat. Waterproof cosmetics are adviseable so that perspiration won’t cause makeup to run.

Summer weddings are preferable, and couples can take several steps to make sure they’re both beautiful and comfortable.

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Simplify Vacation, Maximize Fun

June 18, 2015MBEhleAdvice, DIY, Seasonal

Vacations are a great opportunity for families or individuals to recharge. But especially active vacationers often return from their trips in need of rest, as planning may have taken its toll or schedules loaded with too many activities might have left little time for R&R. Those willing to simplify their vacations may find their excursions provide the rest they need and the energizing boost they can make use of upon returning from their destinations.

Leave work behind

The United States is one of the few countries that does not guarantee paid days off. The Center for Economic and Policy Research says one in four working Americans do not get paid time off. The employment site Glassdoor notes that among those who do get paid vacations, 75 percent of employees chose not to use all of their time in 2013. By comparison, Canadians get an average of 19 days of vacation time per year. Stress about making up work or falling behind makes some professionals worry about using their vacation time, and those who do travel may stay connected to the office in some shape or form. Splitting time between leisure and work responsibilities on a vacation can be taxing and take away from the time you need to relax and recharge. Cut work ties and immerse yourself in the vacation experience.

Use a travel agent

Using a travel agent to plan your vacation can remove any stress and anxiety you may feel when planning a trip and juggling the responsibilities of everyday life. Many people choose to book their own trips as a cost-cutting measure. What they don’t realize is that travel agents may be privy to special deals and perks they can pass on to customers. These agents also know the ins and outs of certain resorts and locales. Leaving the legwork in their accomplished hands means all you have to do is show up with your reservations instead of pouring over the minutiae of planning.

Consider an all-inclusive trip

All-inclusive resorts and cruise lines take the work out of having a good time. These types of vacations remove a lot of the problems associated with personal travel. Meals are provided, activities are coordinated, and you don’t have to carry extra cash, as most costs generally are covered.

Keep your itinerary flexible

Scheduling right down to the minute can remove the fun of the trip. Leave opportunities to just sit and enjoy your surroundings. Perhaps other members of the family or traveling party have their own ideas for entertainment. A rigid timeline can make the vacation seem more like a commitment rather than an opportunity to let loose and stop watching the clock.

Rent a car

Find out if a rental car can be included in the price of your vacation. Having a car at the ready means vacationers can come and go as they please without worrying about hailing taxis or waiting for public transportation. Rental cars also provide access to areas outside of resort confines. Research possible destinations in advance and map out where you want to go to remain safe and prepared.

Vacations don’t have to be taxing. Cut down on some of the stressful aspects of traveling by simplifying and delegating tasks.

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