The sun is shining, and the weather is warm—summer is officially here! While this season can be a lot of fun, it can also be tough on your skin. The combination of hot weather and UV rays can lead to sunburns, dry skin, and other skin problems. But you can protect your skin this summer – and here are a few ideas to help.

• Wear sunscreen: Be sure to choose a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, and apply it generously to all exposed areas of your skin. Reapply every two hours, or more often if you are sweating or swimming. 
• Wear clothing that covers your skin: Long-sleeved shirts, pants, and hats can help shield your skin from the sun.
• Choose light-colored clothing: Dark colors absorb more heat and can make you feel hotter.
• Wear loose-fitting clothing: Clothes that are too tight can restrict your movement and cause you to sweat more.
• Take breaks in the shade: When you are outdoors, take a break from the sun’s rays by sitting in the shade or using an umbrella.
• Wear a hat. A wide-brimmed hat can provide protection for your face, neck, and ears.
• Avoid peak sun hours: The sun’s rays are strongest between the hours of 10 am and 2 pm. If possible, plan your outdoor activities for other times of the day.
• Stay in the shade when possible: If you are going to be outside for an extended period of time, find a shady spot to relax. This will help prevent sunburns and other skin damage.
• Don’t use tanning beds: Tanning beds emit UV rays that can damage your skin and lead to skin cancer.
• Wear sunglasses: Sunglasses help protect your eyes from the sun’s harmful rays.
• Be careful around water: The sun’s reflection off of the water can intensify its harmful effects. If you are going to be near water, be sure to wear sunscreen and a hat.
• Check your skin for damage: Inspect your skin regularly for signs of sun damage, such as redness, dark spots, or changes in texture. If you notice any changes, be sure to see a dermatologist.
• Pay attention to your medications: Some medications can make your skin more sensitive to the sun. If you are taking any medications, be sure to talk to your doctor about how to protect your skin.
• Another way to protect your skin in the summer is to keep it hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
• Exfoliate: Exfoliating helps remove dead skin cells, which can build up and cause breakouts. It also helps improve the appearance of your skin by giving it a healthy glow. Be sure to use an exfoliator that is appropriate for your skin type—you don’t want to overdo it and end up with irritated skin!
• Try a spray tan: If you want to have a summer glow without damaging your skin, consider getting a spray tan.
• Use aloe vera: Aloe vera can help soothe sunburned skin.
• Take cool showers: Hot water can dry out your skin, so opt for cool or lukewarm water instead.
• Apply moisturizer immediately after showering: This will help lock in moisture and prevent your skin from drying out.
• Protect your lips: Yes, your lips need protection, also. See a chapstick or lip balm with UV protection.

By following these tips, you can enjoy the summer while keeping your skin healthy and looking its best! Do you have any favorite summer skincare tips?

If you’re like most people, you’ve probably heard about hygge. But what is it, exactly? Hygge (pronounced HOO-gah) is a Danish word that has no direct English translation. It can be loosely defined as “a feeling of cozy contentment and well-being.” In other words, it’s all about living well and enjoying life to the fullest. And while some people think it’s just a fall and winter thing, that’s just not true. Hygge is a year-round thing and there are some distinct principles with hygge that you should be aware of if you want to bring more of this Danish concept to your life.

• Small Gatherings with Friends and Family: One of the best things about hygge is that it’s all about enjoying the simple things in life. That means spending time with your friends and family, but it doesn’t have to be a big production. In fact, small gatherings are often more enjoyable because they’re more intimate. You can really get to know each other and connect on a deeper level.
  • So next time you’re planning a get-together, keep it small and make it count!
• Comfortable Home Environment: Another important part of hygge is creating a comfortable and inviting home environment. This doesn’t mean you need to spend a fortune on fancy furniture or décor. Instead, focus on making your space functional and cozy.
  • Start by decluttering your home and getting rid of anything you don’t use or need. Then, add some personal touches that make you happy. This could be anything from scented candles to cozy throws and pillows. The key is to surround yourself with things that make you feel good.
• Candles and Dim Lights: One of hygge’s most essential ingredients is candlelight. In fact, candles are such a big part of Danish culture that they even have their own word: “lys.” Candles are used to create a warm and inviting atmosphere, so be sure to keep plenty on hand!
  • If you’re not a fan of candles, you can also try dimming the lights or using lamps instead of overhead lighting. The goal is to make your space feel cozy and intimate, not bright and sterile.
• Eating and Drinking: Food and drink are also important, but it’s not all about indulging in rich and heavy meals. Instead, focus on simple, wholesome foods that make you feel good both physically and mentally. Fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and healthy proteins are all great choices. And don’t forget to enjoy a few treats now and then! Everything should be consumed in moderation, including alcohol.
• Go Low/No Tech: In today’s world, it’s easy to get caught up in technology. But too much screen time can be detrimental to your health and wellbeing. That’s why it’s important to disconnect from your devices and enjoy some low- or no-tech activities. Reading, spending time outdoors, and talking with friends are all great ways to unwind without staring at a screen.
• Enjoy All the Seasons: Another important aspect of hygge is enjoying all the seasons. While hygge is often mentioned during the winter months, it’s a year-round concept. During the spring and summer, you might enjoy flowers and greenery in your home, while during the fall and winter, it may mean hot tea or cocoa.
  • No matter what season it is, there’s always something to enjoy!
• Make Time for Yourself: One of the most important things to remember about hygge is that it’s not just about being with other people. It’s also about taking the time to focus on yourself. This could mean taking a relaxing bath, taking a nature walk, or simply sitting down with a good book. Do whatever makes you feel happy and relaxed.

So, is the hygge life for you? If you like many of these principles, then you’re probably going to be a big fan of hygge – and make it a point to incorporate more of these things into your life.

Are you thinking of starting a blog? Yes? Then there’s no time like the present to get started! Blogging is a great way to share your thoughts and experiences with the world. 

Of course, if you’re new to blogging, you might be wondering about some of the basics that you need to think about. Here are some tips covering everything from choosing a topic to building an audience – and more. So if you’re new to blogging, read on for some helpful advice!

• Choose a Topic: When it comes to choosing a topic for your blog, the options are endless. You can write about anything you want, from your favorite food to your thoughts on current events. However, it’s important to choose a topic that you’re interested in and know a lot about. That way, you’ll be able to come up with content ideas easily and share your thoughts in an interesting way.
• Create Content: Once you’ve chosen a topic for your blog, it’s time to start creating content! When writing blog posts, think about what people would want to read. Try to provide valuable information that will keep readers coming back for more. Additionally, make sure to use keywords and SEO techniques so that your posts will rank higher in search engines.
• Build an Audience: One of the most important aspects of blogging is building an audience. This can be done by promoting your blog on social media and other websites, as well as by writing engaging content that people will want to read. By putting in the effort, you can grow a loyal following of readers who will return to your blog time and time again.
• Blog Consistently: In order to be successful as a blogger, it’s important to blog consistently. This means posting new content on a regular basis, whether that’s once a week or once a day. If you can’t commit to posting regularly, then blogging may not be the best option for you.
• Write Honestly: When writing a blog post, it’s important to be honest with your readers. This means sharing your thoughts and experiences in an authentic way and being upfront about any biases you may have. By writing honestly, you’ll build trust with your readers, and they’ll be more likely to return to your blog in the future.
• Don’t Always Talk About Yourself: While it’s important to share your thoughts and experiences in your blog posts, don’t always talk about yourself. Try to include posts that are informative or helpful, as well as personal posts. This will keep your readers interested and give them a variety of content to read.
• Use Bullet Points and Numbers: When writing a blog post, it’s helpful to use bullet points and numbers to break up the text and make it easier to read. Readers want to be able to find the information they need quickly – and bullet points and numbers help them do this.
• Don’t Forget Images: Including images in your blog posts is a great way to break up the text and add visual interest. It’s also a good way to illustrate your points. Just make sure to use high-quality images that are relevant to your post.
• Proofread Before Posting: Before hitting publish, always make sure to proofread your posts. This will help to ensure that your writing is free of errors and easy to read. Additionally, it’s a good idea to have someone else read your posts as well, in order to get feedback.
• Make It Fun: Most of all, when blogging, it’s important to have a sense of humor and be creative. This will keep your readers engaged and help you to stand out from the crowd.

Blogging is a great way to express yourself – and it doesn’t take a lot to get started! Use these simple tips, and you’ll be on your way in no time at all.

Feng Shui is an ancient Chinese practice used to harmonize the environment with the individual. It is said to be over 3,000 years old and has been used by emperors and royalty for centuries. Feng Shui can be used in your home, office, or any other space in order to create a more positive flow of energy. Want to bring some Feng Shui to your home? Then here are some basic principles to keep in mind.

• Feng Shui Colors: The colors you choose for your home can have a significant impact on your life. Each color has its own set of associated energies, and it is important to choose the right colors to match the emotion you want for your space. Here are some of the most common Feng Shui colors and their associated energies:
  • Red: passion, energy, and excitement
  • Orange: happiness, joy, and creativity
  • Yellow: optimism, intelligence, and creativity
  • Green: health, balance, and growth
  • Blue: peace, tranquility, and calmness
  • Purple: spirituality, intuition, and imagination
• Plants and Feng Shui: Plants are an essential part of Feng Shui, and they can be used to improve the energy in your home. Plants can help to purify the air, promote relaxation, and attract positive energy into your home. Here are some of the best plants for Feng Shui:
  • Bamboo: This plant is associated with good luck and prosperity.
  • Ferns: These plants promote growth and new beginnings.
  • Prayer plants: This plant is known for its ability to absorb negative energy.
  • Money trees: This tree is associated with wealth and abundance.
• Water Features and Feng Shui: Water features can be used to create harmony, improve relaxation, and bring a sense of calm to your space. While you may not be able to add a big waterfall or giant fountain, a tabletop fountain can bring these same things. 
• Mirrors and Feng Shui: Mirrors are another crucial part of Feng Shui, and they can be used to improve the energy in your home. Mirrors can help to reflect positive energy into your home, increase the flow of chi, and reduce stress levels.
• The Commanding Position: The commanding position is one of the most important concepts in Feng Shui. This is the space in your home that is associated with power and authority. It is usually located at the front of your home or office, and it should be decorated accordingly. The commanding position should be used to display your most important possessions, such as your family photos, awards, and diplomas.

Some Basics for the Rooms in Your Home

• Your Entryway: The entrance to your home should be well lit and free of clutter. You can also place a mirror near the entrance to reflect the light and create more energy in the space.
• The Bedroom: The bed should never face the door, as this can invite negative energy into your home. You should also avoid placing mirrors or televisions in the bedroom, as they can disrupt sleep patterns. The best way to Feng Shui your bedroom is by using calming colors and adding plants or water features to the space.
• Your bathroom: The best way to bring Feng Shui to your bathroom is by using calming colors and adding plants or water features to the space.
• Your Living Room: The living room should be decorated in a way that promotes relaxation and harmony. Try adding plants or water features to the room to create a more peaceful atmosphere.
• Your Kitchen: The kitchen is the heart of your home, and it should be decorated in a manner that promotes harmony and family togetherness.

If you’re ready to bring some Feng Shui to your home, then start with these basics. You could soon find yourself leading a more relaxed, balanced, and positive life!

The end of the school year is quickly approaching! Are you prepared? This can be a stressful time for parents and students alike. There are so many things to do, and not enough time to do them! But don’t worry! Here are some tips and tricks to help make the end of the school year a little bit easier – and prepare for summer break.

• Make a Checklist: You may want to start by making a checklist of everything that needs to be done. This checklist can include things like cleaning out lockers, turning in library books, and returning any borrowed items from teachers. It’s important not to forget these things because they will save you time later on! 
• Prepare for exams: Kids of all ages have exams nowadays – so think about helping your child to be prepared for all of their tests. This might mean going over old test questions with them or having them study ahead of time, so there are no surprises when it comes down to crunch time during finals week at school. 
• Tackle stress: One way to lessen the burden of the end-of-year transition is to reduce stress – for you and your children. This can be done in a variety of ways, such as through exercise, yoga, or meditation. Remember the importance of taking some time for yourself each day – and share this with your kids. It will help everyone feel more relaxed and able to take on whatever comes.
• Set realistic goals: The end of the school year is a busy time. You might be tempted to set unrealistic goals (such as trying to do all the things), but this can lead to disappointment and frustration when they are not met. Instead, try setting manageable goals that you know you can achieve! It’s also helpful if these are written down somewhere visible, so it’ll remind you what needs to be done throughout each day or week. 
• Create a schedule for your child: Before summer even begins, it’s important to think about implementing some structure. Structure is good for everyone – especially for younger children who may not understand why there aren’t any classes anymore. Create a daily routine by making lists (or using apps) that outline activities such as reading time, exercise, snacks, etc. And get the kids involved in designing the schedule so that everyone is happy!
• But don’t schedule everything: It’s also important to have some downtime during the summer. This doesn’t mean doing nothing – but rather, taking a few days here and there where there are no set plans. Let your kids stay up a little bit later, sleep in, and just relax!
• Plan for summer reading: Reading is one of the best activities your children can do to keep them ready for the return to school in the fall. It’s also a great activity for parents to model for their children. Create a summer reading plan which might include reading aloud as a family, designated time for individual reading, and trips to your local library for new books. 

While everyone seems to be excited about the end of the school year, it can most definitely be a busy time! All sorts of end-of-the-year activities need to be wrapped up – including exams – and then you need to prepare for summer. But don’t be overwhelmed by that to-do list! Use these tips and check things off one by one and both you and your kids will end the school year on a high note!

When it comes to getting in shape, there are a lot of different opinions on the best way to do it. Some people swear by going to the gym, while others believe that exercising outdoors is the key to success. There are many benefits to both options, but let’s look at the benefits of heading outdoors to work out. 

• It’s free: One of the biggest benefits of exercising outdoors is that it’s free. You don’t have to pay for a gym membership or special equipment, and you can work out anywhere there’s room to move. This gives you the freedom to choose whatever type of exercise you want, whether it’s running, biking, hiking, swimming, or playing a sport.
• It’s good for your mental health: When you exercise outdoors, you get to enjoy the fresh air and sunshine. This can be really refreshing, especially if you’ve been cooped up indoors all day.
• You’ll get better sleep: Exercising outdoors can help improve your sleep quality. Exposure to daylight helps regulate your body’s internal clock, and outdoor activity tends to be more relaxing than working out at the gym. You’ll fall asleep faster and wake up feeling more refreshed.
• You’ll boost your immune system: Being outside in nature can help strengthen your immune system. Studies have shown that people who spend time outdoors have fewer colds and other illnesses.
• You’ll see results faster: Exercising outdoors can help you lose weight because it burns more calories than doing the same activity indoors. Plus, being outside provides an extra challenge to your body as it adjusts to temperature changes and uneven surfaces like grass or dirt paths versus flat pavement. If you’re looking for a way to get in shape without spending money on gym equipment, exercising outdoors might just be what you need!
• It reduces stress: When you exercise outdoors, the natural scenery also has a calming effect, which can help reduce stress levels.
• Vitamin D is good for you: One of the best things about exercising outdoors is that you get to soak up some Vitamin D from the sun. This vitamin is essential for maintaining strong bones, preventing cancer, and boosting your immune system.
• It can be a nice change: If you’re tired of going to the gym every day, try exercising outdoors instead. It could be just the change you need to help you stay motivated as you work towards your goals. 
• You can try something new: Exercising outdoors is a great way to mix up your routine and try something new. Think about different forms of exercise that you can participate in outside – whether it’s running, biking, paddleboarding, golf, or horseback riding.
• It can be social: There are plenty of groups and clubs that meet up for outdoor activities so it’s a great way to make friends with like-minded people. You might find that your new running group or biking group yields new friends quickly as you all share common interests – which makes conversation easy! 
• You’ll save money on gas: Gas prices are increasing these days, but by exercising outdoors instead of driving to the gym every day, you won’t have any transportation costs at all! This will help keep your wallet fat while keeping yourself fit.

The reasons to head outdoors to exercise are many – and so are the benefits. So whether you are tired of heading to the gym, want to make new friends, or just soak up some sunshine while you work up a sweat, heading outside to stay fit is definitely the way to go!

Do you often feel tired and run down? Are you having trouble sleeping through the night? If so, you’re not alone. Millions of people around the world suffer from sleep disorders that prevent them from getting a good night’s rest. 

Luckily, there are some tips and tricks for sleeping better – so if you’re looking for ways to get more out of your sleep, read on!

• Create a Bedtime Routine: Think that bedtime routines are just for children? Think again! One of the best ways to improve your sleep is to create a bedtime routine. This means establishing a set sequence of activities that you do every night before going to bed. By following the same routine each night, you will train your body and mind to wind down and prepare for sleep. Some good activities to include in your routine are reading, journaling, meditating, and stretching.
• Create an Environment for Sleeping: Another important part of getting a good night’s rest is making sure your sleeping environment is conducive to sleep. This means creating a calm and relaxing atmosphere in your bedroom. Some tips for doing this include keeping the room cool and dark and using calming colors like blue or green.
• Avoid Technology Before Bed: The light from electronic devices can disrupt your sleep cycle, so try to avoid using them in the hours before bed. This includes TVs, laptops, phones, and tablets. And, if you must use technology before bed, try wearing blue-light blocking glasses to help.
• Avoid Caffeine and Alcohol: While some people can have a cup of caffeinated coffee late in the day and have no trouble falling asleep, others cannot. If this is you, avoid caffeine and alcohol before bed. Caffeine can keep you awake, and alcohol can interfere with your sleep quality.
• Use Relaxation Techniques: If you’re struggling to fall asleep, try some relaxation techniques. One of the most popular is called progressive muscle relaxation. To do this, tense and relax different muscles in your body one at a time until you feel relaxed. There are also some meditation apps that can help you relax.
• A Few Additional Things You Can Try:
  • Skip the afternoon catnap. Although it can be tempting to take a nap in the afternoon, this can actually make it harder to fall asleep at night.
  • Avoid heavy meals late at night. Eating a big dinner can make it harder to fall asleep. Try to finish eating at least two hours before bedtime.
  • Try some white noise. If you find it difficult to fall asleep in a quiet room, try listening to some white noise. This can be anything from the sound of rain to ocean waves.
  • Give up smoking. Smoking can disrupt your sleep quality.
  • Try aromatherapy. Aromatherapy can be a great way to relax before bed. Try using lavender oil or chamomile tea to help you fall asleep.
  • Use a comfortable pillow. A good pillow can make all the difference when it comes to getting a good night’s rest. Make sure yours is comfortable and supportive.
  • Invest in a quality mattress. A good mattress is essential for getting quality sleep. If you’re having trouble sleeping, consider investing in a new one.

If you’ve tried all of these tips and are still having trouble sleeping, it may be worth talking to a doctor about potential sleep disorders. They may be able to help you find relief from your symptoms.

These are some of the best tips and tricks for sleeping better. Implementing even just a few of these into your nightly routine can make a big difference in your sleep quality – leaving you feeling well-rested when morning comes.

When it comes to podcasts – what do you listen to? Do you gravitate towards comedy? Are you a fan of self-help? Or, are you like the millions of listeners who head straight for true crime?

If true crime is your favorite, there are numerous podcasts that are sure to grab your attention – and here are just a few of the most popular ones available.

• Serial: Serial is a podcast from Serial Productions, a New York Times company, hosted by Sarah Koenig. Serial unfolds one story – a true story – over the course of a whole season. The show follows the plot and characters wherever they lead, through many surprising twists and turns. Sarah won’t know what happens at the end of the story until she gets there, not long before you get there with her. Each week she’ll bring you the latest chapter, so it’s important to listen in, starting with Episode 1.
• Dr. Death: We’re at our most vulnerable when we go to our doctors. We trust the person at the other end of that scalpel. We trust the hospital. We trust the system.
  • Christopher Duntsch was a neurosurgeon who radiated confidence. He claimed he was the best in Dallas. If you had back pain, and had tried everything else, Dr. Duntsch could give you the spine surgery that would take your pain away.
  • But soon his patients started to experience complications, and the system failed to protect them. Which begs the question: who – or what – is that system meant to protect?
  • From Wondery, the network behind the hit podcast Dirty John, DR. DEATH is a story about a charming surgeon, 33 patients and a spineless system.
• Criminal: Criminal is the first of its kind. A show about people who’ve done wrong, been wronged, or gotten caught somewhere in the middle. Hosted by Phoebe Judge.
• Up and Vanished: Host Payne Lindsey returns with season 3 to investigate the North West Montana disappearance of Ashley Loring HeavyRunner, an indigenous woman who went missing from the Blackfeet Nation Indian Reservation in 2017. Up and Vanished is a true crime series that investigates mysterious cold case disappearances. Season 1 covered the disappearance of Georgia high school teacher Tara Grinstead, resulting in 2 arrests, and season 2 focused on the disappearance of young mother Kristal Reisinger from a remote mountain town in Colorado, a case that has since been reopened.
• Southern Fried True Crime: Erica Kelley is a native Tennessean exploring historical and contemporary true crime in the South. Southern charm is attempted but southern sass is bountiful. Join her as she shows you just how southern fried the justice system can be in the Deep South.
• Morning Cup of Murder: Ever wonder what murder took place on todays date in true crime history? If so, sit back and grab a cup of coffee as you enjoy your daily dose of TC goodness. Your host, Korina Biemesderfer, guides you through history with tales of murder, abduction, serial killers, crimes of passion, cults and more in this short form daily true crime podcast with over 600 episodes and counting.
• Tom Brown’s Body: In 2016, a popular high school senior mysteriously disappeared on the night before Thanksgiving. His remains were found two years later. What happened to Tom Brown in the small town of Canadian, Texas that night? It seems everyone in town’s become a suspect, including Tom’s family, friends, the local sheriff, and a high-flying private investigator. Acclaimed writer Skip Hollandsworth digs into the mystery that’s torn this town apart in this eight-part true crime podcast series.
• The Generation Why Podcast: All episodes are available for free, with ad-free episodes available for Wondery+ subscribers.
  • The Generation Why Podcast released its first episode in 2012 and pioneered the true crime genre in the podcasting world. Two friends, Aaron & Justin, break down theories and give their opinions on unsolved murders, controversies, mysteries and conspiracies.

If you’re a fan of true crime and real-life mysteries, then you are probably no stranger to the world of podcasts! There are so many different ones available these days that you have a practically endless supply of episodes to keep you guessing as to who is guilty and who is not. Which ones are your favorites?

***All podcast descriptions courtesy of Apple Podcasts

Yes, Amazon is your one-stop shop for everything for your home, but sometimes what you find just might not be of the quality you hoped for. That’s where this list can help! It shares some of the top-rated home decor goods on Amazon – all with 4-star ratings or higher!

• Lifver Coasters – Set of 6: This coaster set is made with a cork base, which can protect furniture or tabletops from scratches or scuffs, and has a simple modern design that makes them work with numerous interior design styles.
• LuxClub 6-Piece Bamboo Sheet Set: With 18-inch deep pockets and sizes to fit all beds, these highly-rated sheets are a must-have. They are moisture-wicking, eco-friendly, and come with a lifetime warranty that you’ll be happy with them. Plus, they come in 40 different colors.
• Creative Co-Op Distressed Two-Tier Wood Tray: Looking for a two-tiered tray for your kitchen or bathroom? Then take a look at this one! Perfect for displaying spices, your makeup, or even for earrings and necklaces. It will definitely help you regain some space in your home.
• Chester Boho Moroccan Area Rug: This stain-resistant rug can be cleaned easily and provides the perfect boho touch to your home decor. It comes in three different colors and would look great in a living room or bedroom.
• Sharper Image Light Up Electronic Word Clock: Want a non-traditional clock that will capture people’s attention? This is it! It is both stylish and functional and most definitely unique. 
• 3D Wood World Map: Whether you are an avid traveler or just have dreams of traveling the world, this map will definitely keep you inspired. It comes in several different sizes and colors and would look fantastic displayed on a wall for all to see.
• Fotochain Photo Display: Take a peek at these chains, which can be used to display your photos! They come in four different finishes and are available in a rectangular or round style – and they’d look awesome on a gallery wall!
• Battery Operated Glass Flameless LED Candles: If you love the ambiance that candles can create, but don’t want to have to worry about an open flame or strong scents, then these battery-operated candles are the ticket. They come in several different styles and can be operated from a remote control (which is included). They are extremely safe – which is great if you have kids or pets.
• Rose Gold Desk Organizer: Do you work from home or just have an area of your apartment that could use a little organizational help? This rose gold organizer could be just what you need. It’s stylish and will definitely help you organize your desk, makeup, or other small items.
• Buffalo Check Rustic Farmhouse Throw Blanket: Need something to warm up your living room – and your feet? How about a throw blanket? With ten different colors to choose from, there’s sure to be one that matches your decor. Plus, it can be thrown in the washing machine for easy cleaning.
• The Bloom Times 3 Small Potted Artificial Plants: Who doesn’t want a little greenery around their home? Of course, if you don’t have a green thumb, it can be difficult to keep houseplants alive. But these artificial plants are fabulous looking and can certainly add a little greenery to your apartment – without having to worry about whether you watered them or not.

If you are looking to add a few things to your home, then check out some of these best sellers from Amazon! They’re all highly rated (four stars or more) and have amazing reviews from those who have purchased them.

Being a parent is hard enough, but being a modern-day parent has grown to be more difficult than ever. Parents are now expected not only to raise their children but also to help them navigate the world of technology and social media – which is constantly changing. But you don’t have to go it alone when it comes to helping your child understand social media and how to use it properly. Here are some tips to help.

• Communicate with your child about the good, the bad, and the ugly of social media: The best way to keep your child safe on social media is to talk with them about it. Have an open conversation with them about the good, the bad, and the ugly of social media. Let them know that you’re there for them if they ever have any questions or concerns, and be sure to follow up on their online activity regularly. Keeping communication lines open will help ensure that your child stays safe while using social media.
• Limit screen time: In addition to talking with your children about social media, it’s important to set limits on their screen time. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, children should have no more than two hours per day of screen time. This includes all types of screens, including social media. If your child is spending too much time on their phone or other devices, consider limiting screen time.
• Avoid posting personal information: Teach your child not to share personal information like full names or addresses with strangers. These details can be used by others to find out more about you which can lead to other unwanted consequences.
• Remind them of the long-term consequences of their posts: Never underestimate the power of a photo or video online. In this day and age, anything can go viral in seconds which is why it’s important to remind your children that one bad decision could follow them for years after they post something on social media.
• Stay informed on social media trends.: Social media is constantly changing. Take the time to follow industry leaders on social media, subscribe to blogs, or read articles from reputable sources online, so you are aware of changes.
• Learn about the platforms they are on: If you’re not sure about how to use a particular social media platform as it pertains to your children, take advantage of tutorials and other free resources available online so that you can be better informed moving forward.
• Set guidelines for how your child should use technology: You want your child to use social media in a healthy manner that is productive but not distracting. For younger children, this may mean monitoring them while they are using social media or asking them to be in the kitchen or living room while on devices. For older children, setting expectations about what is appropriate and having conversations about their usage may be all that is needed. 
• Act as a good example for your child(ren): The best way to keep your child safe on social media is to be a good example for them. Show them that you’re using social media in a responsible manner, and they are likely to follow suit. Avoid posting anything that could potentially embarrass them down the road and set reasonable limits on screen time. Children tend to model the behavior they see – even when it comes to social media.

Navigating the world of technology and social media can be confusing – especially with children. But if you use some of these tips and stay current on what is happening, you can keep your children safe and help them learn to use it safely and effectively.