My European Winter Travel Bucket List

We all have a list of destinations we would like to visit one day. These “bucket list” places may be located in tropical spots or in cooler climates. You may also want to travel to a certain city or country at a specific time of the year for one reason or another. For example, many people dream of traveling to New York City during Christmastime. For me, however, it’s on my list to visit various destinations throughout Europe during the winter. With its castles, historic sites, famous filming locations, and more, Europe during the winter months has a magical appeal to it. While I don’t have a set date for the trip, I do have a growing list of places I want to visit. Take a look at my European winter travel bucket list below, which consists of cities and specific attractions.

1Reykjavik, Iceland - No matter the time of the year, I think visiting Iceland would be a wonderful experience. It seems as if the country is its own little world. This Nordic location is known for its glaciers and volcanoes, giving it the nickname “The Land of Fire and Ice,” and Reykjavik is the capital. In addition to the marvelous landscape, what draws me to this country is its Viking history, geothermal pools, and the Winter Lights Festival held in the capital city every February.

Light installations and outdoor activities are the main attractions, as the country celebrates the last full month of winter and the lighter days ahead.

2Abisko, Sweden - Located just north of the Arctic Circle, Abisko is known as one of the best places to see the Northern Lights, especially if you are on a budget. Complete with reindeer, sledding, cross-country skiing, and snow, this village is a winter-lover’s dream. It is also close to the world’s first ice hotel, The Icehotel, in the village of

Jukkasjarvi, Sweden. Fun fact: this hotel has been rebuilt every year since its opening in 1990. Now, whether or not I would like to spend a night there is still up in the air, but I would like to see it in person and take a guided tour.

3Rovaniemi, Finland - Known as the official hometown of Santa Claus, Rovaniemi is also located in the Arctic Circle and has attractions like the Santa Claus Village, Northern Lights tours, and a wildlife park. This city thrives on Old St. Nick and everything associated with his story. But what really sets Rovaniemi apart is its period of Polar

Twilight, sometimes referred to as Polar Nights, from September to

March. The sun only appears for a couple of hours each day. When it is not shining, a bluish glittering color covers the sky and pretty much everything else.

4Nuremberg, Germany - Christmas markets can be visited in many countries throughout Europe, but Germany is known for having some of the best, and the Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt can’t be missed. First held in the 1500s, the market is based on the idea of

Christkind, where children were given gifts on December 6th, St.

Nicolas’s Day, before it was switched to Christmas Eve. This idea derives from the Protestant Reformation when Martin Luther helped make the switch in gift-giving days. Visitors can shop at multiple stores within the market and catch a holiday concert or two at the

Lorenzkirche church. While there, you can also tour the Nuremberg

Castle and the city’s toy museum.

5Innsbruck, Austria - Considered to be the “capital of the Alps,” Innsbruck is often surrounded by snow-covered mountains. While there, you can ski in the Austrian Alps, shop, and explore the

Hofburg, or The Imperial Palace. Innsbruck is a rich mixture of both the modern and historic. What more could you want in a winter destination site?

This is just a sampling of all the places I would like to visit during the winter months of Europe. In addition, cities in Italy, which are a little bit warmer, are on my bucket list. Who knows where I may end up, whenever I am able to travel to Europe?

Ginther

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BY GENEVIEVE CONDON

Gone are the Valentine’s Days of fancy dinners and expensive gifts. The high heels are replaced with crocs designed lovingly by your child—sprinkled with this morning’s waffles and syrup.

The mini-dress doesn’t quite fit over your thighs anymore, so that your child lovingly giggles when they sneak into your room as you quickly throw on clothes for the day.

Your husband shoots you a text asking if you want him to make dinner reservations tonight to celebrate Valentine’s Day, and you look around. Kids run up and down the hall, something flies past your face and the dog whimpers to go outside (probably to escape the children).

It’s not as easy to pick up and go out, especially on one of the busiest nights of the year for restaurants. The thought of waiting hours for food, cramming your body into spanx, and even trying to find a last-minute sitter, all seem too overwhelming and exhausting.

“Let’s just have a quiet night in with the kids. We’ll go out next year.”

The dresses and heels for the evening are now tattered pajamas, as you all cram on the couch watching a movie—rated G, of course.

Crème Bruelle is replaced with fruit snacks and buttered popcorn, as the kids fight over who gets to hold the bowl.

Your husband nonchalantly grabs your hand between the kids, and mouths, “I love you,” as little giggles and “gross” fill the air.

Next year quickly becomes the year after that…and that…, and soon Valentine’s Day becomes just another day. Another day on the couch. Another day holding hands between kids.

Until it doesn’t.

Until the kids grow up and make plans, and you and your husband breathe a sign of relief at this newfound freedom. At the endless possibilities of fun, restaurants, movies, and activities.

“Want me to make reservations for Valentine’s Day?” flying across the room. No more sitter worries or responsibilities beyond what you’re going to make yourself for breakfast. You can pick up and go, do whatever you want.

“Let’s stay in.”

The couch is much emptier with just the two of you this year. The movie selection more robust without little ones to have to worry about, but something is missing in the newfound freedom.

The little giggles.

The jitterbugs who can’t sit still.

But some things remain the same.

Your husband still reaches for your hand.

He still whispers, “I love you,” even after all these years. And even though tonight is supposed to be a grandiose celebration of love and romance, you remember the love felt within these walls every day.

And that means more than any fancy dinner reservations or expensive gifts.

It may seem like too much some days, but there will come a time when sitting on the couch, crammed in and watching reruns of the same movie, will be nostalgic. So always hold hands, say, “I love you.” Value your spouse not just on Valentine’s Day, but every single day. No fancy dinner or diamond earrings can take the place of time spent together, and of a family’s love.

Natural Remedies for Tired Eyes

BY LISA S.T. DOSS

Of all the purposes of sight, staring at screens was not the intent. The constant adjustments from bright images to text result in the muscles surrounding the eye becoming overworked. But, of course, there is a solution—natural remedies to improve circulation and maintain eye health.

“Palming”

The natural response to tired or burning sensations is applying pressure to the eyes. Unfortunately, the act can cause damage beyond the surface level; instead, start training yourself to use a home remedy called “palming.” The goal is to relax tired eyes, reducing eye strain. After vigorously rubbing the palms together to create heat, close your eyes, and place the palms gently over the eyes. Enjoy the moment for 30 seconds, three to five times a day!

Massage the Eye

A second therapy is to hold your eyebrows between your thumb and index finger and rub gently; then, with light pressure, use one finger to roll the eyeball. Engaging in this action two to three times daily will improve blood circulation around the eyes and stimulate the tear ducts.

Blink Often

Did you know with each blink, the eyelid spreads tears over the surface of your eyes, applying a liquid comprising mucus, water, and lipids? Humans blink on average between 15 to 20 times each minute, depending on sleep quality. While rest is a vital part of bodily functioning and preventing stinging, burning, or redness around the eyes, blinking is also a solution; so, start training yourself to take moments through the day to blink intentionally.

Hydrate

Consuming a minimum of eight 12-ounce glasses of water daily is essential to help your body’s organs function correctly, which includes your eyes! Not limited to one type of liquid, broth, soups, freshly squeezed juices and herbal teas contribute to good health. As you make choices, consider the types that lead to dehydration, such as alcohol, caffeine, and sugary drinks.

Anti-inflammatory Applications

The skin surrounding the eye is one of the first places to detect signs of aging. As a delicate area, it contains very little fat tissue. Natural ingredients have unique properties that reduce swelling, inflammation, and lines due to stress. Coffee grounds, rich in antioxidants and caffeine content, are one perfect example! Studies show that skincare products including antioxidants and caffeine help prevent aging and stimulate blood circulation around the eyes.

Additional natural remedies are:

• COCONUT OIL: Possessing the anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial fatty acid, and Lauric acid, coconut oil is an essential moisturizer to the skin. Try combining coconut oil with coffee grounds to form a paste; then, apply it under your eyes. Allow it to sit for about ten minutes before dabbing to remove with a warm washcloth, or by rinsing.

• THE CUCUMBER: Combining vitamin C and folic acid, the cucumber is an essential ingredient for wellness and beauty products. The juice contains healing properties to soothe damaged or reddened skin and reduce swelling. Try applying slices of chilled cucumber over the eyes, sit back for 30 minutes, and allow nature to rejuvenate the tender tissues!

• CHAMOMILE: A natural ingredient to ease body pains while helping the mind relax. After drinking a cup of hot

Chamomile tea, place the bags into the refrigerator for 20 to 30 minutes; then, lie down and apply to your closed eyes for ten minutes. You’ll discover this potent flower can also reduce swelling and eliminate puffy eyes!

• HONEY: The antibacterial properties of raw honey are medicinally therapeutic to heal infection and reduce puffy or tired eyes. Combine honey with water and apply from the eyebrow to below the eyelash. Afterward, splash on some water and dab with a towel.

Eat Healthily

Begin a home remedy with a diet rich in vitamin A, antioxidants, beta-carotene, and omega-3 fatty acids!

• DRY FRUITS AND NUTS: High in fiber, almonds, raisins, and figs are the ideal elixir for the eyes. Eat a handful daily to acquire the necessary amount of fiber and vitamins!

• CARROTS: A fantastic additive for a juice or smoothie recipe; carrots are rich in beta-carotene and vitamin A.

• GREEN LEAFY VEGETABLES: Arugula, kale, spinach, and watercress are packed with antioxidants and vitamin A. If you are not fond of leafy greens, try kale chips or recipes incorporating greens into your meals.

Most eye conditions arrive slowly. Unfortunately, over time, age becomes the excuse for noticeable symptoms. While annual eye examinations can prompt treatment, start today with a conscious effort to adopt a daily eyelid care routine.

Child Safety Series

Burn Related Injuries

BY TARYN JEREZ

Each month this series will provide important facts and tips surrounding child safety to support parents and caregivers as they navigate reducing risks and creating the safest environment possible for the children in their lives.

DID YOU KNOW THAT NATIONAL BURN AWARENESS WEEK IS THIS MONTH?

In honor of “National Burn Awareness Week,” February 6th-12th, this month’s Child Safety Series will be sharing some of the American Burn Association’s resources and tips as an opportunity to bring awareness to common risks of burns among children and teens, in order to help the prevention of injuries.

The “American Burn Association (ABA)” was established to “Promote and support burn-related research, education, care, rehabilitation, and prevention.” Through their work with communities across the world, they have been able to help families create simple environmental and behavioral changes that, in turn, save lives.

Sobering Statistics to Consider

• More than 73% of burn injuries happen inside the home.

• Nearly 75% of burns in young children are from liquid, hot tap water, or steam.

• Of all burn-related injuries of hospitalized children, ages 4 and younger, 65% are due to scald burns and 20% to contact burns.

• Fires kill about 500 children ages 14 and under each year, with the majority being residential fires.

Simple Safety Steps to Incorporate in Your Home

Prevention is always the first place to start to avoid the worst from happening. Take inventory of the most common areas in your home that could lead to burns, such as your kitchen and bathrooms. Make sure all adult family members are on the same page when it comes to prevention and safety protocols you decide to abide by in the home. Remember that creating a sense of caution and bringing awareness to fire and burn safety can never be done too early for your children!

Here are a few tips from the ABA to help you create a plan for your home.

Preventing Contact Burns

1. Create a rule to keep your stove top clean and empty of nonessential items to help avoid accidental melting, burning or fires from happening.

2. Have multiple hot pads and oven mitts readily available when cooking, both inside the kitchen and outdoors at the grill, in the event something needs to be moved quickly.

3. Glass and many metal fireplace doors can remain hot for 1 hour+ after use. Make sure the fireplace on/off switches are out of the reach of children.

4. After use, always unplug hot tools, such as hair straighteners and curling irons, with your best tactic being to treat them as they are always hot.

5. Never overload outlets or power strips with too many cords, and always use protective covers for outlets to prevent fingers from going inside.

Preventing Scald Burns

1. Set your water heater at 120 degrees

F, or right below the medium setting, to keep water temperatures at the sink, bath or shower from getting too extreme.

2. Create a safe “kid-free zone” in your kitchen measuring approximately 3 feet around the stove or any other areas where hot items are prepared or served.

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3. Never leave the stove unattended when using the stove if little ones are around. Place handles of pots turned away and use the back burners whenever possible to keep hot items away from the edge, where little hands can touch.

4. Always have covers for cooking appliances or pots and pans where oil may splatter.

5. When drinking and serving hot beverages, try to use travel mugs with lids when possible, but more importantly, don’t keep drinks on low tables or near the edge.

Taking Action If Your Child Experiences a Burn

Depending on the severity of the burn, treatment recommendations vary. While many adults are familiar with burns ranging from first to third degree, they may have difficulty identifying which is which and the proper steps to treat each one effectively.

A general safety measure is always to have a first-aid kit easily accessible, as well as any important documents, such as lists of medications your child is currently taking and phone numbers for contact information for pediatricians and emergency contacts. If you are unsure about the severity of a child’s burn, but have concern, don’t wait to head to your nearest emergency room, or call 911.

Helpful Resources to Learn More

The American Burn Association (ABA)- {ONLINE ARTICLE HYPERLINK:https:// ameriburn.org/prevention/ prevention-resources/}

Healthy Children. org Burn Parent FAQs - {ONLINE ARTICLE HYPERLINK:https://www. healthychildren.org/ English/safety-prevention/ all-around/Pages/First-AidFor-Burns.aspx}

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