Can You Wear White After Labor Day?
Millions of Americans spend their three-day Labor Day Weekend packing away their summer clothes, including their white denim, white shorts and white dresses. But though that sort of unspoken rule "you can't wear white after Labor Day" has been around for what seems like forever, you may be wondering how it even started.
Why can't you wear white after Labor Day?
At first glance, the don't-wear-white-afterLabor-Day school of thought makes a bit of practical sense. Before the invention of air conditioning and heating, dressing for the season was pertinent and not just because of the fashion police.
During the summer months, people historically chose lighter fabrics in lighter colors simply because they kept them cooler in the heat. White was no exception.
Then, as the weather got significantly cooler, people, of course, reached for darker colors and heavier fabrics. The same is still pretty much true today, right? We tend to wear darker, heavier fabrics like wool, leather, cashmere, velvet in the winter and lighter, bright linen, cotton, silk in the summer.
Since Labor Day is often thought of as "the unofficial end of summer," it goes without saying that people kind of naturally retire their summer clothes that weekend. To this day, it's a tradition that is mostly kept up out of necessity not out of respect for an ancient fashion rule.
The rule of not wearing white after Labor Day does not have an exact known origin. However, some historians believe that while, on the one hand, it had to do with simply dressing appropriately for the weather, it may have also been a symbol of wealth.
According to Farmer's Almanac, wearing white became a visible way to separate the wealthy from the working class in the early 1800s. Affluent people could afford to take vacations and by wearing white, they visually asserted that they didn't need to work. After all, most workers gravitated toward darker colors yes, even in summer to hide the sweat, dirt and grime that would show up on their clothes from working all day. To be able to wear white (and wear it unstained, without the visual tokens of hard labor showing up) was luxurious and a clear indicator that someone was well-off and obviously, on vacation.
The whole "don't wear white after Labor Day" rule is not really a thing anymore. As you can see, the idea comes from an outdated, elitist line of thinking and in today's evolved day and age, it's just not relevant anymore.
Today, most people style icons or not pretty much agree that you can wear white at any point throughout the year. So, don't worry about some outdated, unspoken rule. Do what you want and wear what makes you feel good!
Worn Out or Worn Down?
How to Tell the Difference Between Tiredness and Fatigue
Have you ever felt like no amount of coffee or rest can shake off your lingering exhaustion? Do you wake up from a full night’s sleep and still find yourself dragging? If so, you might be dealing with more than just tiredness; you could be experiencing fatigue.
Fatigue is not just a fleeting feeling of sleepiness – it’s a deep-seated exhaustion that can impact your daily life and point to more serious health conditions. However, these feelings are often dismissed as simply needing more sleep or seen as a normal part of a busy lifestyle. According to recent research by MD Live, a leading virtual care provider, many aren’t aware of what fatigue is despite experiencing symptoms and 35% rarely think about the reasons behind their tiredness.
“While we often use words like ‘tired’ and ‘exhausted’ interchangeably, there are distinct and clinical differences between tiredness and fatigue,” explains Dr. Maggie Williams, medical director for MD Live Primary Care. “Occasional tiredness can often be managed with better sleep habits or lifestyle changes, but fatigue is a persistent exhaustion that could signal underlying health issues that should be discussed with a doctor.” Dr. Williams shares telltale ways to determine whether you may be experiencing simple tiredness or if your symptoms might point to something more serious.
Scrutinize your sleep
First, look at your sleep patterns. Tiredness generally improves with a good night’s sleep or a short nap, whereas fatigue persists even after adequate rest. Try keeping a sleep diary for a week, noting when you go to bed, when you wake up, and how you feel upon waking and throughout the day. If you consistently wake up feeling unrefreshed or have difficulty staying asleep, it might indicate something more serious. Pay attention to other signs like frequent waking during the night or difficulty falling asleep despite feeling tired.
Track your tiredness
Consider how long and how often you feel exhausted. Tiredness is typically temporary and linked to specific activities or lack of sleep, such as staying up late to finish a project or getting a poor night’s sleep. Fatigue is long-lasting and occurs frequently, often without a clear cause. Ask yourself whether exhaustion is a constant presence in your life, lingering for weeks or months. If symptoms persist and you cannot pinpoint a specific reason, it’s more likely to be fatigue.
Be on the lookout for other symptoms
Fatigue often accompanies broader and more severe symptoms, such as muscle weakness, joint pain, headaches, and lack of motivation. Mentally, fatigue can lead to prolonged mood swings, depression, anxiety, and severe cognitive impairment, making it difficult to concentrate or remember things. Keep track of any additional symptoms you experience, noting their severity and duration.
Gauge the impact on daily life
Reflect on how your tiredness affects your daily activities. Tiredness might cause a temporary decrease in productivity and social interactions. Fatigue has a significant and prolonged impact on your ability to perform daily tasks, work, and maintain social relationships. For example, you may find it increasingly difficult to keep up with work responsibilities, household chores, or social commitments. Evaluate how often you find yourself canceling plans, avoiding activities, or struggling to keep up with every day demands.
Revamp your rest routine
To assess whether you may be dealing with fatigue, address sleep-related issues, including irregular sleep schedules, screen time before bed, and an uncomfortable sleep environment. Establish a regular and consistent sleep routine, even on the weekends. Avoid alcohol consumption, limit exposure to screens at least an hour before your bedroom is dark, quiet and cool. If these changes don’t help, it could point to fatigue – persistent problems despite good sleep hygiene warrant further investigation.
Fatigue is often linked to chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, depression and thyroid disorders. These illnesses significantly impact the body’s ability to maintain energy levels, resulting in persistent exhaustion that can negatively affect quality of life. According to the survey, one third of respondents with chronic diseases experienced extreme tiredness but didn’t recognize it was a symptom before their diagnosis. Identifying and managing these conditions properly can help alleviate some of the overwhelming feelings of exhaustion.
While you might be inclined to dismiss or brush off tiredness as not a priority, persistent problems are not something you have to live with. If sleep-related issues or extreme tiredness begin to
Working 5-9: Make the most of your morning hours for more productive days
From a regenerative bath to that first cup of coffee, early morning rituals have the power to heal, restore and fuel. They can leave you feeling accomplished, empowered and ready to take on the day. How you spend your hours from 5-9 each day can ensure you’re well prepared to tackle whatever your 9-5 throws your way.
Establishing a well-planned and consistent routine removes the guesswork and makes it easy to accomplish more during these essential hours that set the stage for the day ahead. Get a jumpstart on your day with these tips to make the most of your morning routine.
Set Personal Goals
Just as no two people are exactly alike, your morning routine should reflect your unique needs. Some people need these early hours to ease out of sleep and gradually work toward a busy day while others jump out of bed ready to set the day in motion. Decide what you can realistically accomplish in your waking hours before you hit the office or school drop-off line and plan a sequence that makes sense for you and your family. When you have a steady routine in place, it's typically easier to keep up with habits like early morning workouts, and on days when your energy is lagging you can shift into autopilot and still get everything done.
Creating a Rejuvenating Space
No matter your 5-9 routine, the bathroom is central to it. You can start the day with a more positive outlook when you get ready in a space that’s equal parts functional and beautiful. There are many bathroom fixture companies that provide stunning designs, innovative features that make life easier, environmentally conscious performance and do-it-yourself installation ease to start your day right.
Practice Good Sleep Habits
The way you end each day influences how you start the next one. Going to bed on time, avoiding screen time before you turn out the lights and creating a comfortable sleep environment are all keys to restful sleep. However, managing your sleep doesn’t end once you reach dreamland; your wake-up routine is also an essential aspect of a healthy sleep schedule. One of the biggest detriments to quality sleep is hitting snooze to delay your day. Just a few more minutes easily becomes 20, 30 or more and none of that time is quality rest, so you’re not really gaining anything.
Ensure You’re Well-Equipped
Few things can sidetrack a good morning routine like discovering an empty bottle of shampoo or an empty can of shaving cream. Make a habit of regularly taking inventory of your morning supplies. Watch for sales so you can keep backups on hand to ensure you’ll always have your favorite toiletry items ready to help you feel refreshed and ready to go.
Enjoy a Mindful Moment
Making time to relax or do something you enjoy can set a positive tone for the day. You might savor a few quiet moments over a cup of coffee or spend quality time with a pet. Early morning light and nature sounds can provide calming background for meditation, or you might simply use the time to organize your to-do list so you feel better prepared to tackle the day.
Take Time to Tidy Up
Make Time for Breakfast
Countless studies affirm the importance of a well-rounded breakfast. Researchers have found good nutrition provides fuel to help give you energy, promote clearer thinking and problem solving, improve mood and memory, and more. If you can’t stomach a full meal, look for alternatives to give your system a morning boost, such as a proteinrich smoothie, early and a more substantial snack later in the morning.
When it’s time to put the workday behind you, it can be easier to make the mental shift from work mode to life mode when there’s not a list full of chores awaiting you at home. As part of your morning routine, make your bed, clean your vanity countertop and complete other small chores to make your evening load lighter.
National Grandparents Day
National Grandparents Day is not a public holiday. It falls on Sunday, September 8, 2024 and most businesses follow regular Sunday opening hours in United States. Forget-me-not flowers symbolize National Grandparents Day in the United States.
What Do People Do?
Many people honor their grandparents through a range of activities such as giftgiving, card-giving, and for children to invite their grandparents to school for a day where they participate in special lessons or special assembly programs. Many school students take part in story-telling activities that relate to their grandparents, as well as art or poster competitions where children often use a story about their grandparents in their artwork.
About four million greeting cards are sent within the United States each year on National Grandparents Day. This day is also an opportunity for people to appreciate and express their love to their grandparents through kind actions such as making a phone call or inviting their grandparents for dinner. Grandparents may receive a visit from their grandchildren or loved ones on this day.
National Grandparents Day is an observance and not a public holiday in the United States.
National Grandparents Day has more than one origin. Some people consider it to have been first proposed by Michael Goldgar in the 1970s after he visited his aunt in an Atlanta nursing home, Spending $11,000 of his own money in lobbying efforts to have the day officially recognized, he made 17 trips to Washington DC over a seven-year span to meet with legislators.
Others consider Marian Lucille Herndon McQuade, a housewife in West Virginia, to have been the main driver for the day of observance. Throughout the 1970s McQuade worked hard to educate the people about the important contributions senior citizens made and the contributions that they would be willing to make if asked. She also urged people to adopt a grandparent, not for one day a year and not for material giving, but for a lifetime of experience.
In any event National Grandparents Day was finally signed into law by President Jimmy Carter in 1978. Marian McQuade received a phone call from the White House to advise her of this event. A presidential proclamation on September 6, 1979, made this day official – it designated Sunday, September 9, 1979, (being the “first Sunday of September following Labor Day”) as National Grandparents Day.
Each year the President is requested to issue a proclamation to: designate the first Sunday in September after Labor Day as National Grandparents Day; and to call on people, groups and organizations to observe the day with appropriate ceremonies and activities.
The official song of National Grandparents Day is “A Song for Grandma And Grandpa” by Johnny Prill, (https://youtu.be/NprND2Wb-x0). The official flower for the day is the “forget-me-not” flower.
Protect Your Home
Home improvement projects often focus on updating the aesthetic of our house, but upgrades that make your living space more secure and comfortable for you and your family are sometimes even more important.
From your front door to the interior of your home and more, these ideas from the experts at Masonite, a global industry leader in interior and exterior doors, can help provide a greater peace of mind – ensuring what matters most is always protected.
Ensure your home is well-lit
A well-lit home exterior make it easier to spot potential threats and may even deter people and animals that don’t belong on your property. Automatic outdoor lighting, either set to a timer or triggered by morion or light sensors, can help you see what’s going on outside. Ensure fixtures on your porch, patio and garage are in good working order and replace burned out bulbs or lights that no longer function. Adding landscape lighting can also aid in security while boosting curb appeal.
Protect your home with a secure front door
Upgrading your front door can do much more than just improve the look of your home – it’s also an important part of providing enhanced security for you and your family.
Reduce fire hazards
Many elements of a home like furnaces, chimneys, hot water heaters and other gas appliances provide value to homeowners through comfort and convenience but can pose risks without proper maintenance. Hiring a professional to check your heating and air conditioning system annually can help you avoid costly repairs while also protecting your loved ones. Keeping the chimney clean of debris, creosote and soot helps lower fire risk and ensures smoke, carbon dioxide and other gases are safely carried out of the home.
Control home security systems on the go
Installing security systems, doorbells, lighting and other systems that can be controlled from a smartphone app can provide added convenience and peace of mind. You can remotely turn lights on and off, unlock doors, change the temperature, open or close garage doors and check camera feeds while away.
Replace smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
A simple project to make your home safer, it’s essential to check your smoke detectors regularly and replace the batteries every six months. If you discover the date of manufacture on the back of your smoke detectors is more than 10 years ago, replacement is recommended by the National Fire Protection Association. While checking your smoke detectors, test or install carbon monoxide alarms to ensure you have a way to detect the invisible, odorless gas that can cause serious health problems if left unchecked.
How to Bring Optimistic Content to Your Social Media Feeds
For many people, scrolling on social media has become a primary source of entertainment and a tool for staying connected. In fact, the majority of Americans report going on at least one social media platform each day. Reasons for turning to social media include combatting boredom (66%), the desire to laugh or smile (59%) or to see what’s happening in the world (49%).
However, often, when scrolling, the content isn’t necessarily what you were looking for – or worse, it causes stress or anxiety. In fact, many people said they are frustrated because what they see on their social media feeds doesn’t match what they want to see and just as many believe they have either “some”, “little”, or “no control at all” over the content that pops up on their feeds.
This data, from a new survey by LG Electronics and conducted by Talker Research, found that people wish they could just reset their feeds and start all over. The survey also found that three quarters of respondents associate at lease one social media platform with a negative impact on their mental health.
According to social media expert and associate professor Casey Fiesler, Ph.D., algorithms play a significant role in the content you see, so understanding how they work is key to improving your feed.
“Algorithms are recommendations that determine what you see on social media by predicting content you’re likely to engage with based on past engagement,” said Fiesler. “These algorithms can send you down ever more specific niches – for good and bad. When left unchecked, you can quickly go down negative rabbit holes and encounter harmful content. The good news? You do have some control over the input for these algorithms: by choosing to engage with optimistic content, you’ll probably see more of it.”
Increasing
optimistic content in your feeds
One way to improve your algorithm to include more positive content is to avoid engaging with negative content, and making a point to engage with content you actually want to see. To help everyone have a positive experience and regain some control of social media feeds, LG created a global playlist called “Optimism Your Feed,” which is designed to bring more positivity to your social media feed.
“Optimism Your Feed” is part of LG’s Life’s Good campaign, introduced last year to inspire and encourage people to approach life with an optimistic attitude. Created in collaboration with global influencers renowned for their positive outlook, the playlist includes over 20 short-form videos full of motivational messages and feel-good content.
“When you see content on your feed that improves your moon, such as LG’s ‘Optimism Your Feed’ playlist, give it extra attention,” says Fiesler. “’Like’ the content and leave positive comments on your favorite posts or videos. Give upbeat, optimistic posts increased engagement means you’re more likely to see positive content like that in the future.
How to Get Started
Nothing feels better than taking back a little control, so take action to make the time you spend on social media what you wanted it to be – opportunities to check in with friends, see what’s happening in your
community and get a little lift to brighten your day.
LG’s global playlist gives you opportunities to see positive, uplifting posts every time you check out your social media. By being more conscious about what you choose to engage with, you can
Looking Back at the Baby Boomers
Almost exactly nine months after World War II ended, “the cry of the baby was heard across the land,” as historian Landon Jones later described the trend. More babies were born in 1946 than ever before: 3.4 million, 20 percent more than in 1945. This was the beginning of the so-called “baby boom.” In 1947, another 3.8 million babies were born; 3.9 million were born in 1952; and more than 4 million were born every year from 1954 until 1964, when the boom finally tapered off. By then, there were 76.4 million “baby boomers” in the United States. They made up almost 40 percent of the nation’s population.
The Baby Boom
The postwar baby boom likely happened because older Americans, who had postponed marriage and childbirth during the Great Depression and World War II, were joined in the nation’s maternity wards by young adults who were eager to start families. (In 1940, the average American woman got married when she was almost 22 years old; in 1956, the average American woman got married when she was just 20. And just 8 percent of married women in the 1940s opted not to have children, compared to 15 percent in the 1930s.)
Many people in the postwar era looked forward to having children because they were confident that the future would be one of comfort and prosperity. In many ways, they were right: Corporations grew larger and more profitable, labor unions promised generous wages and benefits to their members, and consumer goods were more plentiful and affordable than ever before. As a result, many Americans felt certain that they could give their families all the material things that they themselves had done without.
Moving to the Suburbs
The baby boom and the suburban boom went hand in hand. Almost as soon as World War II ended, developers such as William Levitt (whose “Levittowns” in New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania would become the most famous symbols of suburban life in the 1950s) began to buy land on the outskirts of cities and use mass-production techniques to build modest, inexpensive tract houses there.
The G.I. Bill subsidized low-cost mortgages for returning soldiers, which meant that it was often cheaper to buy one of these suburban houses than it was to rent an apartment in the city.
Women Boomers
The suburban baby boom had a particularly confining effect on women. Advice books and magazine articles (“Don’t Be Afraid to Marry Young,” “Cooking To Me Is Poetry,” “Femininity Begins At Home”) urged women to leave the workforce and embrace their roles as wives and mothers. The idea that a woman’s most important job was to bear and rear children was hardly a new one, but it took on a new significance in the postwar era. First, it placed the baby boomers squarely at the center of the suburban universe. Second, it generated a great deal of dissatisfaction among women who yearned for a more fulfilling life. (In her 1963 book “The Feminine Mystique,” women’s-rights advocate Betty Friedan argued that the suburbs were “burying women alive.”) This dissatisfaction, in turn, contributed to the rebirth of the feminist movement in the 1960s.
The Boomer Market
Consumer goods played an important role in middle-class life during the postwar era. Adults participated eagerly in the consumer economy, using new-fangled credit cards and charge accounts to buy things like televisions, hi-fi systems and new cars. But manufacturers and marketers had their eyes on another group of shoppers as well: the millions of relatively affluent boomer children, many of whom could be persuaded to participate in all kinds of consumer crazes. Baby boomers bought mouse-ear hats to wear while they watched “The Mickey Mouse Club” and coonskin caps to wear while they watched Walt Disney’s TV specials about Davy Crockett. They bought rock and roll records, danced along with “American Bandstand” and swooned over Elvis Presley. They collected hula hoops, Frisbees and Barbie dolls. A 1958 story in Life magazine declared that “kids” were a “built-in recession cure.”
The Boomer Counterculture
As they grew older, some baby boomers began to resist this consumerist suburban ethos. They began to fight instead for social, economic and political equality and justice for many disadvantaged groups: African-Americans, young people, women, gays and lesbians, American Indians and Hispanics, for example. Student activists took over college campuses, organized massive demonstrations against the war in Vietnam and occupied parks and other public places. Young people also participated in the wave of uprisings that shook American cities from Newark to Los Angeles in the 1960s.
Other baby boomers “dropped out” of political life altogether. These “hippies” grew their hair long, experimented with drugs, and–thanks to the newly-accessible birth-control pill–practiced “free love.” Some even moved to communes, as far away from Levittown as they could get.
Baby Boomers Today
As baby boomers age, the population of seniors in the United States increases. By 2030, about one in five Americans will be older than 65. Boomers have caused the creation of Older Americans Month (May), National Senior Citizen Day in August, and Grandparents Day in September.
Understanding Your Credit Score
Your credit score plays a significant role in your ability to reach your financial goals. When you apply for a loan, a cellphone, a rental unit or any number of other activities, lenders and potential creditors will look at your credit score to gauge your financial stability and your risk of defaulting on a financial responsibility. The better your score is, the more options will be available to you, including higher chances of getting approved for a loan and better loan terms. Here's a look at what financial activities are affecting your credit, as well as some Freddie Mac-approved tips for improving your score.
How do credit scores work? There are many different types of credit scores, but the FICO score is the one used by most lenders. Scores range from 300 to 850 points. According to FICO itself, scores are based on these five factors:
Payment history: Payment history accounts for 35% of your credit score and reflects how consistently you’ve made on-time payments.
Amount owed: Worth 30% of your score is your amount of outstanding debt. The lower this figure is, the higher your credit score.
Length of credit history: your credit history, which accounts for 15% of your credit score, is based on the length of time you’ve had credit accounts open in your name. A longer credit history can help your score.
New credit you apply for: Credit inquiries are worth 10% of your credit score. Each time you apply for credit, your score goes down – with one exception: when you’re shopping for a mortgage, student or auto loan, credit scoring models only count one inquiry if your comparison shopping is done within a 14 to 45-day period. Note that inquiries will affect your credit even if you’re denied or ultimately decide against the loan or credit card. Each inquiry affects most scores by 5 points or ewer and can stay on your report for up to 24 months.
Types of credit you use: the final 10% of your score is determined by whether you can responsibly use different types of credit, such as installment and revolving debt. You can get your free credit report from the three main credit bureaus once every year at www.annualcreditreport.com or by calling 877.322.8228.
What behaviors are good for credit? Your credit score will naturally go up and down as you go about your daily life. However, these actions are associated with good credit: -making payments on time. -keeping your debt loan manageable. -using as little of your credit limit as possible. -paying the full amount due, or at least more than the minimum amount due.
-reviewing credit reports annually.
-not shopping for too much credit. How can you improve your score? If your current credit score has been damaged or is otherwise low, set a goal to improve it. In addition to smart credit management, consider taking the following steps:
Enroll in a free financial education class, such as Freddie Mac CreditSmart, to acquire the building blocks you need to improve your finances and your credit.
Build credit through rent payments. Unfortunately, rent payment are not automatically factored into your credit score. That means, for many people, their largest monthly expense doesn’t help them build credit. Talk to your landlord about reporting your payments to the three major credit bureaus. If they’re not able to do so, you can do it yourself through a rent reporting service.
Good credit expands horizons. No matter where you are in your financial journey, you can take steps to improve your credit and create the life you want.
Incorporate Off-Whites into your Home’s Design
Interior design styles are always changing. Since the 1990s, interior styles have moved from sleekness to warm tones to clean basics and now, to a natural warmth that introduces a holistic balance that is inviting and raw. There are many ways you can invite natural warmth into your home, and one of the easiest ways is by using white.
Whites can easily elevate a space, creating a light and tranquil atmosphere with a touch of elegance. Over time, white has evolved from a bright white with blue undertones to take on more natural hues from wood tones and stones for a softer, more natural and approachable
You don’t have to plan a full design overhaul to embrace warmth in your home design. Check out these simple ways to incorporate warm whites into your home.
Living
Room
The living room is the heart of your home. Because the living room is often a gathering place for family members or guests, the space should be open and inviting. You can, of course, paint your walls in a warm white with red undertones to reflect natural lighting. However, painting isn’t your only option. If you’ve been thinking of replacing your furniture, opt for a creamy white plush sofa or armchairs. You can also add a basket made of natural materials like rattan and ill it with cozy off-white blankets. Don’t forget to accentuate the room with white sheer curtains that can filter natural light for a soft glow.
Kitchen
A welldesigned kitchen should
balance functionality with style. Incorporate warm whites by choosing cabinetry that almost feels taupe in color and pair this with leathered marble countertops. You can complete the look by adding white kitchen tools and appliances.
Kitchen gadgets, especially tools you use every day, can act as an extension of your design. In stead of hiding an appliance, choose appliances that serve as an extension of your kitchen design.
Bathroom
Natural white hues in your bathroom can evoke a sense of serenity and cleanliness, similar to a spa. Using ivory
colored tiles on the walls, countertops and flooring, you can create the illusion of a larger, more open space. You can pair this brilliant tile with unlacquered brass or brushed nickel fixtures for a touch of elegance. Don’t forget to add plush white towels and bath mats.
Bedroom
Turn your bedroom into an escape from the every day by creating a calm environment. If you’re shopping for new furniture, look for an upholstered headboard in natural whites and pair it with a bed frame in white oak. For a quick infusion of style, add crisp white linen bedding and layer with textured throws and cushions in various natural white hues and earth tones for depth and visual interest.
Remember to opt for soft, ambient lighting to complete the space.
Are you ready to embrace warmth in your home? Embrace the versatility of whites in your design choices. Use these tips to create a home that is inviting, grounded and on-trend with a color that illuminates your living space.
Food Safety for Fido
We all know that our pets love to eat human food whenever they get the chance, and while certain foods are actually good for their health, like blueberries and cantaloupe, some can make them very sick or even put their lives in danger. But why are there foods that we can eat that our fourlegged friends can’t?
Dr. Whitney Miller, chief veterinarian at Petco, says, humans evolved differently than cats and dogs, which means we developed different diets and ways of processing food. “From our gastrointestinal makeup to our teeth, we are designed to be omnivores with a rich and complex diet,” she says. “Additionally, our bodies can flush out many toxins that other animals do not have the capability to process.”
To discover some of the foods you likely have at home right now that aren’t safe for your pets, read through this helpful list.
Grapes and Raisins
Dr. Liz Moses, emergency veterinarian at Veterinary Emergency Group in Tampa, Florida, further explains that cats and dogs simply lack the necessary enzymes to properly digest some of the foods that we eat regularly. One notable food that’s toxic to cats and dogs is grapes. Although experts are unsure as to what part of the grape is toxic (There is speculation that the skin is to blame.), grapes and raisins can both cause kidney damage and possible failure, according to Dr. Moses.
Macadamia Nuts, Almonds, and Pistachios
“Similar to grapes and raisins, we are unclear why nuts are toxic to dogs,” Dr. Moses says. “However, they can cause vomiting, ataxia [poor muscle control], weakness, hyperthermia [increased body temperature] and depression.” Pistachios can be a choking hazard.
Chocolate, Cocoa Powder, Coffee and Caffeinated Drinks
Chocolate is a big one when it comes to toxic foods for pets. Dr. Moses says that the caffeine and theobromine in chocolate and cocoa and coffee stimulate a pet’s central nervous system and heart. Symptoms can include vomiting and diarrhea along with more serious symptoms like abnormal heartbeat, muscle tremors and seizures. “The darker the chocolate, the higher the stimulation,” she says. “However, if a dog eats a large amount of milk chocolate, the effects could be similar to those of a dog who eats a small amount of dark chocolate.” Dr. Miller also notes, “Some folks use spent coffee grounds for compost or fertilizer ensure this is not accessible to pets at any time.”
Avocado
Dr. Moses says that persin, which is a toxin that’s present in the fruit, leaves and pit of an avocado, can cause vomiting and diarrhea. “The high-fat content can cause pancreatitis, a painful inflammatory process that can land a pet in the hospital,” she says.
Dr. Miller also shares that an avocado’s pit is a choking hazard.
Onions and Garlic
Onions, along with onion powder, garlic, chives, leeks, scallions and shallots, contain something called thiosulphate, which causes destruction of red blood cells and ultimately anemia in pets, resulting in symptoms like lethargy, weakness, pale gums and discolored urine, according to Dr. Miller. It can even lead to possible death. Dr. Moses adds that red blood cells are essential to carry oxygen throughout the body. The destruction can cause kidney damage, as the kidneys filter the blood.
Xylitol
Xylitol, a sweetener commonly used in sugar-free products like candy, gum, diet foods, baked goods, toothpaste and some brands of peanut butter is toxic if it’s consumed by a pet. “It can stimulate the release of insulin and cause a severe drop in blood sugar or even liver failure,” Dr. Miller says. “Symptoms can occur within minutes of eating xylitol, so time is of the essence if your pet accidentally ingests this substance.” Consuming xylitol can also lead to seizures or death.
Bones
“The bones of other animals might be enticing to your pet, but they easily fracture and break, and can cause damage to a pet’s mouth or digestive tract,” Dr. Miller says. “Ensure bone chews for pets have been processed to be safer for their consumption.”
Apple Seeds
“Apple seeds contain cyanide, which is toxic to cats and dogs,” Dr. Moses says. “Even though a large amount needs to be ingested, owners should avoid feeding these to their pets.”
Raw Potatoes
Raw potatoes contain something called solanine, and as Dr. Moses observes, large amounts of this toxin can cause vomiting, diarrhea, cramps, dizziness and possible neurological issues.
Nutmeg
Nutmeg is a spice that can bring on myristicin toxicosis, which can cause high blood pressure, increased heart rate, abdominal pain and even hallucinations, Dr. Moses says.
BIRTHDAYS
9/5 Edna Multer
9/5 Rita LoMonaco
9/9 Joseph Torre
9/11 Maureen Mark
9/15 Ed Bradin
9/18 Jean Branciforte
9/21 Eileen Duffy
9/26 Dominick Livaccari
9/28 Linda Hasenmeyer
9/28 Kathy Holly
2024
ANNIVERSARIES
9/5 Dennis and Marsha Darvin
9/5 Maureen and Robert Mark
9/10 Larry & Joan Becht
9/15 Richard & Lisa Justman
Universal Design for Aging in Place:
Universal design for aging in place is exploding in popularity as the older adult population grows rapidly. Most seniors prefer to continue living at home instead of moving into a retirement facility, a concept known as aging in place. But most houses do not have the features necessary to support seniors as their needs change. But wait….there’s a solution.
Universal design for aging in place is the secret to creating an age-friendly home where seniors can live safely and independently for as long as possible. An added bonus?
Universal design benefits everyone and makes a space comfortable and convenient for older adults, grandkids, guests, and neighbors too!
The concept of universal design is simple: make things accessible to everyone, regardless of their physical limitations, age, or level of ability. Universal design is a philosophy based on the idea of accessible design that everyone needs equal access to our built environment.
Universal design eliminates barriers to enhance comfort, convenience, accessibility, safety, independence, and quality of life. It uses concepts that consider future adaptability as circumstances and needs change over time, so remodeling in the years to come is unnecessary or minimized.
Aging-in-place design is an approach to creating accessible homes that accommodate the needs of older adults. It may involve changing a home’s layout, fixtures, and furnishings so people can use it as they age. As many seniors choose to remain in their own property as they age, they are making home modifications to ensure comfort, safety, and accessibility even as their abilities change over time.
Universal design and aging-in-place home design both emphasize five main objectives:
• Comfort
• Convenience
• Efficiency
• Accessibility
• Safety
The best way to include universal design concepts in remodeling projects is to start early and plan well. Find ways to incorporate elements of these thoughtful design ideas into all building projects or renovations.
Since universal design improves the home environment for anyone at any age and through all stages of life, it’s a good investment that is beneficial today and in the future. It’s cheaper and easier to make all changes at once instead of doing multiple minor renovations. Construction is a stressful and messy process, especially if you’re living in the home during remodeling.
Research to find the best options to achieve the goals of universal design for your home. As universal design and aging in place are gaining popularity and smart technology is advancing rapidly, many more product and service options are becoming available. More contractors are also specializing in home modifications for aging in place.
Begin with an assessment of what changes may be needed for the home to be aging in place ready as there are certain features that should be present in every home. This home assessment should be completed with the help of a Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS) who has specialized knowledge of the best home modifications and products for seniors. Most people will use the findings of their home assessment to begin making changes necessary so their home continues to work well for them as they age.
There are thousands of home modifications that can benefit older adults. Common renovations for aging in place include a walk-in shower, installing grab bars and adding handrails, upgrading lighting, elevating toilets and doorway widening. It might also involve installing an elevator or new appliances, constructing an addition, or creating an in-law suite.
Universal design principles are integral to aging in place design. It creates a home environment that is accessible, comfortable and safe for everyone, but most importantly, older adults. Whether planning new construction or renovation of an existing home, consider universal design for aging in place as a good investment for your current lifestyle and an even better future.
Make Your Own Natural Weed Killer
Tackle troublesome garden weeds the sustainable way with this easy-to-make homemade weed killer. A solution of vinegar, salt and dish soap can be a cheap and effective tool against weeds.
Even in the best of plots, weeds will grow. And why wouldn't they? You've provided inviting soil and the sun shines on even the most reviled plant. If you are fighting the good fight against those unwelcome visitors, there is no shortage of chemical options for clearing the decks, but many are now seeking alternative homemade weed killers to commercial herbicides as we enjoy a long-overdue trend toward "greener" living.
Pulling weeds by hand is always the most reliable solution, but there are times when herbicides may be the practical choice. For small outbreaks or perimeter weeds, though, seek out a response other than the use of synthetic chemicals. Fortunately, a cheap and easy natural alternative using ingredients from the pantry will get the job done. To a point.
Natural Weed Killer Recipe
1 gallon white vinegar
1 cup salt
1 tablespoon liquid dish soap
Combine ingredients in a spray bottle and treat weeds at the sunniest time of day for best results. When looking for a natural alternative to herbicides, a cocktail of vinegar, salt and liquid dish soap has all of the ingredients needed to quickly kill weeds.
Acetic acid in the vinegar and the salt are both very good at drawing moisture from weeds. Dish soap acts as a surfactant, which is an agent that will reduce the surface tension that can cause the weed-killing concoction to bead on the leaves instead of being absorbed by the plant.
On a warm, sunny day, the results of this homemade spray will be obvious in a matter of hours as weeds turn brown and wither. Depending on the weeds and the season, the results can be speedy and effective.
But there are downsides. Unlike some chemical solutions, this formula is not built to work its way into the root system, meaning multiple treatments will probably be necessary to keep weeds at bay. Additionally, when looking for a quick fix, sunshine makes a big difference and the 5 percent acetic acid in most household vinegars may fall short of expectations against hardier weeds.
Keeping a spray bottle of this homemade solution on hand is an inexpensive and often effective weapon against weeds that may pop up along walkways, fences or house foundations. Spray the targeted weeds and avoid dousing the soil or nearby plants. This weed killer can't tell the difference between weeds and the plants you'd prefer to keep around.
Autumnal Equinox
Sunday, September 22, 2024,
When Should I Replace My Hearing Aids?
Why Hearing Aids Age Quickly
No product lasts forever, including your hearing aids. Most will function well for three to seven years, so you’ll likely need to replace them every five years on average.
Wondering why they have such a short lifespan?
Several factors cause hearing aids to age quickly here are a few.
Hearing aids get a lot of daily wear and tear.
Hearing aids are exposed to moisture, heat, dirt and earwax for hours a day. Even though they are made of durable material, this prolonged exposure to a harsh environment eventually causes damage.
Hearing aids need proper storage.
To extend your hearing aids’ lifespan, keep them in a safe, dry place when you’re not wearing them. A storage case with a dehumidifier will help dry out any built-up moisture inside them.
Hearing aids require regular maintenance and cleaning.
Bringing your hearing aids to your audiologist for routine checkups helps keep your hearing devices going strong. Your audiologist will check and replace any poorly performing parts and professionally clean them.
Certain hearing aid styles fade faster.
Behind-the-ear styles typically last longer than in-the-ear designs because more of the electronic elements are outside the moist environment of your ear canal.
Hearing aid technology becomes obsolete.
Finding replacement parts to repair hearing aids older than five years can be challenging, as the manufacturer might not make them anymore. Similarly, the software used to program old hearing aids may no longer work, so if your prescription changes, reprogramming them could be impossible.
When to Buy New Hearing Aids
Consider purchasing new hearing devices when:
☐ Your current hearing devices are five or more years old.
☐ Your hearing devices have visible damage.
☐ Your hearing devices have already been repaired previously.
☐ Your hearing loss worsens, or your current devices no longer sufficiently help.
☐ Better technology for your type/extent of hearing loss and lifestyle is available. Think it may be time to retire your current hearing aids? Our expert audiology team can help you find new devices that fit your unique needs. Call us at (631) 360-4327 today to schedule an appointment.
Article written by: Kathleen Page, NYS Licensed and Board Certified Audiologist H.E.A.R.S. Audiology, P.C.
732 Smithtown Bypass, Suite 301, Smithtown, NY 11787 Tel: (631) 360-4327 Email: Info@hearsny.com www.hearsny.com
We encourage our readers to contact us with any questions.
1 (8 ounce) can Pillsbury crescent roll dough rolls or sheets
1 lb. lean ground beef
1 (1 ounce) packet taco seasoning
¾ cup salsa
1 cup grated cheddar cheese
Optional toppings: sliced olives, sliced jalapeño, chopped lettuce, diced tomatoes, diced avocado or guacamole, sour cream, cilantro, diced red onion or sliced green onion
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Spray a 9 x 13-inch baking dish with cooking spray. Unroll crescent roll dough and gently press into the bottom of the prepared dish to form a crust. Set aside. Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until meat is no longer pink. Drain and return to skillet. Stir in taco seasoning mix and 2/3 cup water. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, and simmer uncovered for 3-4 minutes (stirring often), until thickened. Stir in salsa. Spoon beef mixture over the crescent roll dough. Sprinkle with grated cheese. Bake for 20 minutes, or until crust is golden brown. Cut into squares, garnish with optional toppings, and serve.
4 cups cherry tomatoes
2 tablespoon olive oil plus more for finishing salt and pepper to taste 10-11 ounces pappardelle
¾ cups grated parmesan cheese
½ cup pasta water (only if needed)
1 ball burrata
5-6 basil leaves
Preheat oven to 400°F. Place cherry tomatoes on a parchment-lined baking sheet and season with olive oil, salt and pepper. Place in the oven. Roast the tomatoes until they've burst and release their juices, about 35 min. minutes. Remove from the oven. About half way into the roasting of the tomatoes, boil pasta water, salt it, and cook the pappardelle to al dente. Reserve half cup of pasta water. Mix ingredients together, add pasta water only if needed. Top with burrata, more parmesan, more basil,
