Does a big, fat, raw steak really help a black eye? Not really...

If you’re unlucky enough to wind up with a shiner – skip the raw steak and grab some peas instead... 

Here’s a better black eye protocol:

• Get the ice! You want to apply that ASAP to reduce swelling and numb the pain. A bag of frozen peas is perfect for the job. That will take the shape of and soothe your shiner.

• You’ll need to thoroughly clean the area and any broken skin to prevent infection.

• Do NOT apply pressure. Your eye has suffered a trauma – be gentle with the ice and cleaning.

• Buy sunglasses you REALLY like. Typically, a black eye won’t completely fade away for a couple of weeks.

Because you’re bound to be asked about your black eye wherever you go – you might as well have some fun with it. Come up with a few exciting or unusual stories to impress your friends – or jot down the real story and hand it out when you’re tired of telling it.

If you had chicken pox as a kid – I’ve got a warning you NEED to hear...

Anyone who had chicken pox as a kid runs the risk of developing shingles as an adult...  

According to the Centers for Disease Control, one in three people will wind up with this painful skin rash and incidents of shingles are on the rise. There is a vaccine available now approved by the FDA. Getting it can reduce the risk of shingles by 55%. 

If you’re over 50, and had chicken pox as a kid – you’re even more at risk of developing shingles. Exercising, snacking on fruit and vitamin C will help protect you a bit by keeping your immune system healthy and strong.

Wouldn’t it be nice to have a hunk handy to haul that heavy stuff out of your house?

Click here for CHHJ

If you’re trying to declutter or heave some heavy stuff – hire a hunk! 

College Hunks Hauling Junk is the largest employer of college students in the nation. They hire college kids who are working their way through school and willing to do some heavy lifting. These hunks can handle jobs big and small and will even sort, label, donate and recycle your stuff for you. 

College Hunks Hauling Junk started in the summer of 2003 as a group of college buddies with a beat up cargo van. Now, they’re clean-cut, uniformed, with a fleet of trucks, 300 full-time employees and 35 franchises. And if you know a college kid looking for work, Hunks is hiring, with lots of positions for guys and girls.

If you find camping a bit uncivilized – you might enjoy glamping...

Who wouldn’t love camping, with a chef, a butler and a comfy bed at night? 

If you like the idea of the great outdoors – but could do without the canned food and sleeping bags, glamping could be for you. It’s a new vacation trend that combines the adventure of camping with the glamor of some more luxurious amenities. 

David Troya, CEO of GlampingHub.com, says on a glamping trip, your days might be spent hiking or rafting in the backcountry, but your nights could be spent sleeping on fresh sheets in a soft bed. Some of the more adventurous glampers might even enjoy maid and butler service, four-star chefs and opulent accommodations. 

There are glamping facilities throught the U.S. and Canada, as well as Europe, Asia and Africa. They range in price and amenities - but authentic glamping accommodations always include a bed and could range from spacious tents or teepees to exotic tree houses, cabins and yurts.

The sign for your yard sale can make or break it...

The success of your yard sale starts with the signs... 

Bruce Littlefield, author of “Garage Sale America,” says you’ll get a lot more attention and business if you get a little creative. Use fun words like “Smokin’ Deals” or “Super Hot Sale.” People notice signs with a sense of humor or style. 

Bruce also suggests using a single vibrant color for all of your signs to lead the way. Go with a vibrant pink or neon orange poster board and it will get noticed. You can even adorn your signs to appeal to your target audience. Balloons for kids, glitter for women or themed with sports, music or tools – whatever you’re selling.

It’s time for the annual fireworks safety reminders. A few tips you may not have considered yet...

Will you be setting off your own fireworks this weekend? 

Do-it-yourselfers have been hurting themselves since 1776 – and modern fireworks can do some serious damage. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, nearly 10,000 people were injured by either professional-grade or homemade firework devises last year. Here are some safety precautions you NEED to take:

• Avoid buying fireworks packaged in brown paper. That indicates they were made for professional displays and could be really dangerous for non-professionals.

• Sparklers are not harmless. They burn at the same temperature as a blowtorch, 2,000 degrees. Several of the injuries were reported to the eyes, face and ears – and resulted from sparklers or small firecrackers.

• Do NOT try to relight or pick up what you think is a dud. 

• Leave spent fireworks where they are and douse them with water before discarding.

If you’d like to lose those love handles or that spare tire – stretch....

For a lot of people, midsection weight loss can pose a real challenge...  

According to a study by the American Dietetic Association, some simple stretching can do wonders to slim that stubborn belly fat. Your stretching routine should consist of 30 minutes of gentle stretching or yoga a day. That stretching puts your brain more in tune with your body and will help to prevent cravings and overindulging and encourage mindful eating.

There’s something other than jewelry you should keep in your jewelry box....

If you’ve got silver jewelry – keep some chalk in your jewelry box...  

Silver tarnishes a lot faster in humid weather and regular old blackboard chalk will absorb the moisture and sulfur-based air impurities that make it dull and dirty. 

The chalk trick works well with other silver and silver plated items too. Musicians often keep chalk in the case with their instruments and a stick or two in with your silverware or silver pieces can save you some polishing.

Chicken soup is good for the soul – and for the skin...

For ages, chicken soup has been considered good for what ails you – and wrinkles are no exception...

According to Andrew L. Rubman, founder of Southbury Clinic for Traditional Medicines, good old chicken soup has some significant anti-wrinkle properties. The slow cooking method of simmering chicken and vegetables together results in a broth rich in nutrients and hyaluronic acid - which enhances the fullness of our skin. 

Store bought chicken soup won’t be as effective. The best anti-wrinkle soup is slow-cooked at home with free-range chicken, skin, bones and all. Simmer that with some onion, celery and carrots for 2 hours, uncovered. Save that concentrated broth and have some every day for plumper, fuller skin.

If you’re thinking about buying a new car – do it this weekend...

Here’s a great way to celebrate the 4th of July a few days early: Buy a car! 

The weekend before the 4th of July is considered THE best time to get a great deal on some new wheels. That’s because those 2012 models will soon be considered a one-year old car and dealers want to move them out of the showrooms and off of their lots.

If buying a new car is not in the budget – consider some Broadway tickets. They’re cheaper in July when fewer people are spending time in the theaters. You can buy them now to take in a show later in the year.

We wash more whites in the warm weather. How to keep them whiter...

The next time you’re washing whites – keep it light... 

White loads of laundry need some extra room in the machine. If you’re washing a small load – set your washer to medium. If it’s medium, choose large. If the load is too full, those whites won’t be rinsed as thoroughly and detergent residue will lead to yellowing.

For really bright whites, consider drying them on the line instead of in the dryer. The sun’s ultraviolet rays will make natural fabrics like cotton even brighter.

If you’re ordering coffee for an energy boost – make it a latte...

The caffeine in that coffee might pick you up a bit – but make it a latte and it will last longer... 

Pairing caffeine with the protein you’ll get from the milk in a low-fat latte will enhance the effect, stave off hunger and boost energy more effectively. Consider topping that latte off with a sprinkle of cinnamon – and savor that smell as you sip. The scent of cinnamon can boost cognitive function and memory.

If you or your pet gets skunked – should you use tomato juice?

If someone in your household has been sprayed by a skunk – don’t bother filling the tub with tomato juice...

It may or may not help but here is a more effective de-skunk protocol.

• Resist the urge to wash the whole victim. You want to avoid spreading the skunk oil around.

• Locate areas that have been directly hit. Soak up as much of the oil as possible with paper towels or an old towel you won’t mind throwing away later.

• Wash the target areas first. Hydrogen peroxide, baking soda and dish detergent are your best tools. Mix up a solution and use that on the smelly spots, avoiding the eyes.

Depending on the severity of the skunk attack, you may need to repeat the stinky spot treatment. Once you’ve washed those areas as thoroughly as possible, go ahead with the overall bath or shower.

Feeling sad? Fight fire with fire...

The next time you’re having a bad day or feeling blue – bring it on with a sad movie... 

A recent study from Ohio State says watching a tear-jerker can actually improve your mood for up to two days. According to Silvia Knoblock-Westerwick, psychologist and lead author of the study, watching a sad movie reminds us of close relationships, triggers feelings of gratitude - and prompts the brain into producing more mood-boosting hormones like oxytocin.

Bursitis isn’t just for grandmas. How you get it and get rid of it...

Bursitis is a painful joint ailment that is often associated with old age... 

While it’s true that older joints are more prone – anyone can suffer. It’s caused by bumping, bruising, repeated use or overuse of particular joints. The good news is it’s not permanent and can be prevented or alleviated in a few days if you take the right steps:

• Change up your equipment. If you’ve got painful bursitis in the heel – toss those shoes and find a better fitting pair. If you participate in a sport – invest in protective padding for the vulnerable spots, usually the elbows and knees.

• Change up your routine. Just repeatedly leaning on one elbow or kneeling in the garden can trigger bursitis. You need to identify repetitive movements or positions and find a new approach.

To relieve the pain of bursitis, you’ll need to ice the joint at first to reduce the swelling. Although you’ll want to go easy on the affected joint – don’t stop using it. It’s important to gently exercise that joint to prevent scar tissue from forming.

Your car is a target for passing birds. How to clean that off...

The next time your car is the victim of bird graffiti, don’t leave it there – and don’t just wipe it off...  

Bird droppings can do some real damage to your paint. If left on there too long it can leach out the color and leave a permanently faded spot. Bird poop is also abrasive and can scratch the finish. The best approach is to pour a bit of no-salt seltzer water on the mess and gently pinch off any remains with a soft cloth.

Before you hit send on that resume – check for a few things that should NOT be on there...

You want your resume to stand out and describe you a bit – but you also want to avoid too much information! 

Here are a few things to leave OFF that resume from Lylah Alphonse, Senior Editor at for Shine:

• Mission statement: “I am looking for…” They don’t care what you want. You need to point out your accomplishments and what YOU can do for THEM.

• “I was the Sr. Class President.” Good for you. Leave that OFF your resume - unless you’re still in or fresh out of school.

• Personal information: Marital status, sexual orientation, kids – none of that belongs on your resume.

• Salary requirements: You may have to choose a range on an application – but that should not be on your resume.

If you’re sending your resume electronically, it’s also a good idea to copy and paste your resume into the body of an email. It can’t hurt to give a potential employer a sneak peak at that attachment they might not bother to open.

Can a raw potato save a salty soup or stew? No!

You’ve probably heard that adding a raw potato to a soup or stew with too much salt could save the day...  

According to Robert Wolke, author of “What Einstein Told His Cook,” it’s just not true. He says there is no reason a potato would specifically attract salt. If you remove the raw potato from the soup, the potato will taste salty, but so would a sponge -- it has simply soaked up some of the salty liquid. 

If you have ruined something with too much salt, you could try adding a bit of vinegar or sugar, depending on the dish, to cancel out some of the saltiness.

Could you be allergic to sex?

Most of us don’t consider sneezing particularly sexy – but for some people, there is a connection...

According to allergist Neeta Ogden, sex is actually a somewhat common sneeze trigger. That’s because physical intimacy activates the part of your nervous system that controls involuntary reflexes. The nose also contains tissue that can become engorged during intimacy which can provoke a sneeze.

Dr. Ogden says there is something you can do to stave off that unsexy sneeze. Press the length of your index finger firmly on the area between your nose and your upper lip until the urge passes.

Facebook changed your email address. How to change it back...

Like it or not, Facebook changed your email to your username @facebook.com...  

Don’t panic – it’s easy to change it back. Just click “About” on your profile and scroll down to your contact info. Click the “Edit” tab and choose the email you would prefer. You’ll need to click the little circle over to the right that lets you choose “Hidden” or “Show on Timeline.”

If you’re wondering what happens if you don’t change it back – any messages sent to your @facebook email address will wind up in your Facebook Messages box.

Ouch! Brain Freeze! Why that happens...

That excruciating brain freeze can take all the fun out of that frozen treat...  

In order to prevent brain freeze – you need to understand exactly what’s happening. When that cold matter touches the roof of your mouth, the blood vessels there quickly contract. It’s when they start to relax that you’ll experience a surge of blood flow to the brain, causing an intense headache sensation. 

To prevent brain freeze – slow down and let that cold sip or bite warm on your tongue for a moment before letting it touch the roof of your mouth. If it’s too late for that, curl your tongue and press the bottom of it against that upper soft palate. The bottom of your tongue will be a bit warmer than the top side. A sip of room temperature water will also shorten the length of brain freeze, which usually lasts about 30-60 seconds.

If your pet wears a flea and tick collar – you need to hear this warning...

That flea and tick collar on your pet could be really dangerous for you and your children...  

According to a study by the Natural Resources Defense Council, adults who play with a cat or dog while it's wearing a flea and tick collar are exposed to up to 500 times the Environmental Protection Agency's safe level of pesticides. For children, those levels can be 1,000 times higher than the safe level. 

Pediatrician Jerome Paulson, says pet owners with small children should consider using oral flea and tick protection for their pets. He says pills that pets take internally are a safer option than the collars which release toxic chemicals into the fur.

We’ve all got a hidden built-in sleep aid....

If you have trouble falling asleep at night – hear this: 

Your ears have a few valuable insomnia acupressure points. Those sweet spots are on the outer rim of your ear. The first one is just below the top – and the next one is about half way down your ear. 

In order to activate your sleep spots – you’ll need to condition them a bit. Rub them gently for a few minutes each night at bedtime. Within 4 weeks, you’ll be dozing off faster and sleeping sounder.  

If you’re watching your weight – vacations can be a challenge...

Do you leave your diet at home on vacation? 

Here are a few tricks to minimize some dieting damage on the road:

• Don’t let yourself get overly hungry getting there. Airports, convenience stores and gas stations are full of diet-busing temptations. Eat a meal higher in fat BEFORE you hit the road. You’ll feel full for longer.

• Pack some baggies of whole-grain crackers, veggies or raisins and nuts for the trip. Those are satisfying snacks that will help take the edge off.

• Pack some chewing gum and water too. A stick of mint gum and a bottle of water are an effective appetite suppressing duo.

• Once you’re there – consider skimping a bit on breakfast and lunch so you can really enjoy yourself at dinner.

If you’re really in a pinch and wind up at a fast-food joint on vacation – choose wisely. Opt for a kid’s meal or foods that are grilled. Skip the fries and have water or skim milk with that.

Where reading is concerned – a man is just better at it than a woman...

If you like to read – and you’re a woman – you’re probably holding that Kindle, book or magazine WAY too close... 

A new study from the University of California has determined that women tend to hold reading material much closer than men – and that can take a toll on their vision. 

The authors of the study say it helps to explain why many women suffer from age-related vision issues and need reading glasses or bifocals at an earlier age than men.

Trouble remembering names? Try these tricks from a pro...

If you’ve surrendered to the notion that you’re just not good with names – don’t give up... 

Scott Hagwood, author of “Memory Power,” says there are a few simple tricks that can do wonders for your name recall. He says we should try at least one of these EVERY time you meet someone new:

• Alliteration is the stringing together of words that start with the same sound. When you first learn someone’s name, think of a characteristic that starts with the first letter of the person’s first name. For example, Hannah wears high heels…Tom is tall…or Donna loves drama.

• Rhyme to remember. In your mind, rhyme the person’s first name with an associative characteristic. Anna eats a banana…Max plays the sax…Jim likes to swim. 

• Associate new acquaintances with old ones. Who does this new person remind you of? Make a point of linking these two people in your mind. The next time you see this new person, an image of that other friend or celebrity will pop into your mind—along with the new name. 

• Repeat the new name both out loud and to yourself several times. Make a point of saying something such as “Great to meet you, Jason” at the beginning of the conversation and “Hope to see you again soon, Jason” at the end of the conversation.

If none of those methods work, don’t panic – that just enhances the block. Relax and keep talking to the person. Sometimes your subconscious works while you’re talking. If all else fails, accept defeat and politely say, “Can you please give me your name again?” It won’t be held against you.

Are you in a high-risk group for Social Media Depression?

If you are prone to depression, a pre-teen or teenager, or a woman – you could be at risk of developing Social Media Depression... 

Although there’s been no formal definition to diagnosing SMD, mental health experts are taking a legitimate approach in identifying a growing number of people who are suffering. In order to determine whether social media is hurting your psyche – consider why you use it and how it makes you feel: 

• Do you check Facebook to procrastinate or keep tabs on other people you no longer see in person?

• Do you feel left out when you follow someone on Twitter and they don’t follow you back?

If you notice that your mood has been altered for the worse after spending time with social media – that’s not a good sign and you’ll need to detach and limit your virtual socializing.

How are your parenting skills?

Have you ever bribed your kid? 

That’s a big parenting no-no. Here are some of the most common parenting pitfalls to avoid:

• Bribery: A savvy child will use that tactic to their advantage – with ever-increasing reward demands for stuff they should be doing anyway.

• Warnings: If your child is behaving badly – skip the warning and take action. Warnings just set looser boundaries – especially if you’re not prepared to follow through. 

• Giving in: While it can be appropriate, on the rare occasion that you are wrong - consistently giving in to whining or begging just encourages your child to be a nudge or a bully to get their way.

• Skipping chores: The goal of child-rearing is to grow them up and move them out. Sparing them chores, or acting like their housekeeper deprives them of the skills they’ll need for living on their own.

Should you eat your shrooms cooked or raw?

If you like to eat mushrooms – cook them first... 

Mushrooms are packed with protein and nutrients and are an excellent choice if you’re trying to lose weight or eat less meat. Cooked mushrooms have 3 to 4 times the nutrients as the raw variety. That’s because cooking them removes the water and concentrates all the good stuff. 

Make sure to store your mushrooms in a paper bag – not plastic. That will prevent them from getting slimy. Also, don’t wash your mushrooms in running water. They absorb water like a sponge. Gently wipe them off with a damp cloth instead. They’ll also absorb any oil or butter you cook them in. For weight loss and more flavor – try cooking them in a bit of wine instead.

When it’s hot outside – your refrigerator can get stressed out...

Your refrigerator has to work overtime in the summer heat...

Here are a few things you can do to reduce some of that wear and tear and save some energy:

• Keep it clean: The front grill attracts lint and dust and reduces air flow to the condenser. Clean that with a brush or vacuum a few times a year.

• Give it space: If you can, leave a few inches between the wall and the refrigerator so air can circulate freely.

• Cover your food: Unwrapped food and beverages release moisture and make the compressor work harder.

• Don’t overload it: Adding too many room temperature items can really stress your fridge. Try to avoid adding six-packs and large containers of beverages all at once.

When is the last time you drank Champagne? We should be popping more corks...

Raise your glass this weekend and celebrate! 

Just be sure it’s filled with Champagne. A new study says that grapes grown in the Champagne region of France have some significant health benefits. A glass of Champagne a day could help protect against heart disease and neurological problems like Parkinson’s. The fizz in that bubbly can even boost circulation and levels of nitric oxide.

And here's more good news:  Price is not a factor.  Both expensive and inexpensive Champagne have the health benefits.

You’re probably too close to the car in front of you...

The guy tailgating you in traffic is not only annoying – he’s at a higher risk for cancer... 

New research suggests that air pollution from traffic could be linked to a higher risk for ovarian, cervical, brain and stomach cancers. It’s pretty scary stuff but you can reduce your exposure by backing off a bit. Experts say there should be one car length between you and the car in front of you for every 10 mph you’re going. At a red light or in stop and go traffic – there should be one car length. At highway speed – there should be about 6 car lengths in front of you.

No word from the experts on how to prevent other drivers from filling up your safety space.

Are you more of a rose or a sunflower?

Pick a flower – any flower...  

The bloom you’re most attracted to reveals something about your disposition and personality. Here’s what it’s saying:

• Rose: You’re detail-oriented and strive for perfection – personally and professionally.

• Sunflower: You’re friendly and charming and love to laugh.

• Tulip: You’re the sophisticated type with a touch of elegance and like your quiet time.

• Orchid: You’re unique and refined with a mysterious streak and sense of style.

• Wildflowers: You’re a creative dreamer and a bit of an idealist.

• Herbs: You’re a deep thinker, a natural problem solver and probably like to read.

Should you avoid filling your gas tank on a hot summer day?

You may have heard that it’s a good idea to fill your gas tank early in the morning or at night as opposed to in the heat of midday... 

The theory behind that is that the gasoline is cooler and denser in the morning – and you’ll get more for your money.

According to Consumer Reports, that theory has been put to the test and is not worth inconveniencing yourself. Most stations store the gasoline underground and the temperature change at different times of the day is very little or none.

If you’re going on vacation soon – take two wallets...

When you’re traveling, you’re valuables are at risk... 

Here are a few precautions you can take to avoid getting ripped off:

If you’re staying in a hotel room, leave the TV on when you’re not in the room and hang the Do Not Disturb sign on the door. It’s also a good idea to leave the light on in the bathroom and the door slightly ajar. If you must leave valuables in your room, hide them in some dirty laundry, towels or bedding.

You’ll also want to consider carrying 2 wallets. Put some cash and loyalty cards in one and your ID and credit cards in another. If you get held-up, hand over the wallet with the loyalty cards.

Which is worse – a weather watch or a warning?

It’s been a banner year for crazy weather...

...but according to the Federal Signal Corporation, a lot of us don’t pay enough attention to, or fully understand the local weather warnings. A weather warning is generally more serious than a watch and means you have less time to prepare or evacuate. An advisory conveys less urgency but you should still pay attention. Let’s review:

• Tropical storm watch. Tropical storm conditions (sustained winds of 39 to 73 mph) are possible within 48 hours.

• Tropical storm warning. Tropical storm conditions are expected within 36 hours.

• Hurricane watch. A hurricane watch is issued 48 hours in advance of the anticipated onset of tropical-storm-force winds.

• Hurricane warning. Hurricane conditions are expected within 36 hours.

• Tornado watch. Tornadoes are possible. Remain alert for approaching storms.

• Tornado warning. A tornado has been sighted or indicated by weather radar. Take shelter immediately.

• Excessive heat outlooks. Issued when the potential exists for an excessive heat event in the next 3 to 7 days. 

• Excessive heat watches. Issued when conditions are favorable for an excessive heat event in the next 12 to 48 hours. 

If you’re considering getting a trampoline – there’s something you need to know first...

A trompoline might sound like a great idea this summer – but you might want to check with your insurance company first...  

They're a whole lot of fun, but they also offer a whole lot of ways to seriously hurt yourself – or a friend or neighbor. That's why your homeowners policy probably excludes trampolines from coverage - and why your current insurer may even boost your rates or threaten to drop you if you buy one. 

If you’re still determined to get a trampoline – you may need to shop around for a homeowner’s policy that will tolerate and maybe even cover it.

Have you ever been subjected to an “icebreaker” on the job?

If you’re starting a new job – you might want to ask someone if there will be an icebreaker... 

Some businesses have started to incorporate icebreakers into their retreats or orientations as a way of encouraging employees to interact. While some icebreakers make sense and will consist of employees introducing themselves to each other or pairing up for a task – others can get kind of weird. A few notorious corporate icebreakers have included awkward social games, holding hands, wearing silly stuff or creepy tasks like matching shoes from a pile with your coworker’s feet.

If you’ve got a routine dental visit coming up –skip the X-rays...

If your dentist wants X-rays every time you go – just say no! 

Researchers from Yale and Brigham and Women’s Hospital found that adults who received bitewing exams once a year or more are 50% more likely to develop a brain tumor. Those who had been given panorex exams, which are X-rays that show all of the teeth, had triple the risk. 

The American Dental Association recommends routine dental X-rays ever two to three years for adults – and every one to two years for children. If you’re visiting the dentist for a cavity or another dental problem – ask the doctor to X-ray just that area.

It seems some gentlemen DO prefer blondes...

It’s not all about service in the waitressing industry...  

According to French researchers, blonde waitresses pull in more tips from male customers than brunettes. A larger bust was another tip enhancer in the study. Small chested brunette waitresses do have access to one secret weapon – lipstick. Those who wore red lipstick were tipped 50% more by male customers than those who wore a pink or brown. None of these tipping tricks had any effect on female customers.

It turns out money CAN buy some happiness – if you buy the right stuff...

Whoever said money can’t buy happiness probably had food and shelter... 

A recent study determined that emotional well-being does rise with income, to a point. $75,000 annually was the average happiness mark. Beyond that, when the money increased, the happiness did not. If you do have some extra cash to spare – here are some good investments to increase the odds of feeling happy about it:

• Buy experiences instead of things. Things get old, wear out and are difficult to share. Good experiences will last a lifetime.

• Help others instead of yourself. People who spent money on a good deed or on someone in need felt significantly happier than those who did not.

Take your time while buying your happiness. Immediate gratification can take a lot of the pleasure out of a purchase. It eliminates the anticipation which is a strong source of happiness. You’ll savor the buy a lot more if you work for it or wait long enough to eliminate any doubt or guilt.

Do you buy seedless grapes? The ones WITH seeds are actually better...

The next time you reach for a bunch of seedless grapes – keep reaching – over to the bunches WITH seeds... 

Grape seeds are edible and they’re full of antioxidants. Those little seeds can help to prevent or reduce spider veins in the legs, reduce swelling and even lower cholesterol. Grapes with seeds are also less expensive than the seedless bunches.

If your partner wears perfume or cologne – you might not want to kiss their neck...

We don’t always stop to think about it – but most of the smell-good products we spray and slather onto our bodies are full of chemicals... 

When we spray or dab perfume and cologne onto our neck – we’re absorbing and even inhaling phthalates, which have recently been linked to some potential health hazards, including type 2 diabetes. If someone kisses our neck, they’re eating the phthalates. 

Because fragrance and cosmetics companies aren’t required to list all the chemicals that go into making stuff smell so great, there’s no way of really knowing whether your favorite brands contain phthalates. If the word “fragrance” is in the list of ingredients, it’s probably got them.  

The next time you read a story to a young child – use your finger...

There’s something you can do while reading to a young child that could really sharpen their future reading potential... 

Follow along with your finger. By getting in the habit of pointing to each word and line as you read, toddlers and preschoolers will actually grasp the left to right, top to bottom sequences sooner. 

Non-readers who were taught to follow along with the finger were also faster at recognizing words, capitalizations and punctuations than average beginners.

If you get sunburned – get some vinegar!

Aloe is good for sunburn relief – but vinegar is even better...  

Soothing your sunburn with a solution of 1 part vinegar, 2 parts cool water, helps in a couple of ways. The acetic acid sooths and moisturizes the damaged skin. It can also prevent blistering and peeling. Soak a washcloth in the vinegar solution and apply that to any sunburned areas for about 10 minutes a few times a day until the swelling and redness have subsided.

Does part of you wish you’d get fired today?

What’s the number one reason a person quit their job? 

It’s not because they found a better one. Blame it on the boss! A recent survey sites a difficult boss as the greatest motivation of quitting. Here are some other miserable employee statistics:

• 44 percent said they put in just enough effort to not get fired. 

• Only 23 percent said they work to their full potential. 

• 75 percent admitted they could be more effective on the job. 

• Two out of three disgruntled employees are so annoyed at their boss, they are actively seeking different employment opportunities.

If 50 is the new 30 – where is the new middle-age?

Ask several people to define middle-age – and you’ll probably get several different answers... 

Florida State University sociology professor Anne Barrett says unlike adulthood and old age, middle-age has no clear or legal boundaries – and the span has been creeping up a lot as the largest population ages. Here’s how different groups feel about it:

• Both women and men view the start and end of middle age as occurring earlier for women than for men. 

• Younger adults see middle age as occurring at younger ages than older adults. 

• People who are more socioeconomically disadvantaged or belong to racial or ethnic minority groups tend to view this stage as occurring earlier than do their peers.

So just when does middle age begin and end? Professor Barrett says most people think middle age begins at 44 and ends at 60.

You can skip watering the grass today. It could do more harm than good...

If you lightly water your lawn once a day – that’s too much... 

Daily watering only encourages your grass to develop shallow root systems. Turf experts say the best approach is to give your lawn one long soaking for about 30 minutes – per month!

That might not sound like enough – but it is if you water it right. You want to be sure you do it in the early morning, between 4 and 7 am. You’ll also want to avoid watering in windy or breezy conditions. And stop cutting it so often. You should let it grow to about 5 inches before mowing.