THE STAR OF THE FOOTBALL SEASON IS COLD-PRESSED JUICE

Tailgate parties are known for being fun, wild, and rowdy.  That’s why it’s no surprise that beer is often the go-to beverage to enjoy before the big game.  Most families pack a collection of snacks, a batch of burgers to cook on the grill, and a cooler full of beer to sip on before and after the game.  But while beer has long been the reigning champion of tailgating beverages, this year there’s a new king in town: cold-pressed juice. 

Not only is cold-pressed juice healthy and delicious, but it’s the perfect ingredient in any cocktail or mocktail recipe.  Bold and refreshing, cold-pressed juice is the perfect thing to add a fresh twist to the tailgating experience.

What Is Cold-Pressed Juice?

Cold-pressed juice is a beverage made by crushing the juice out of fruits and vegetables using a hydraulic-powered press.  Since it’s created without the use of heat, cold-pressed juice is much less processed than most other juices.  The cold-pressed method prevents the killing off of vital enzymes and flavors, retaining the nutrients and flavor of fresh fruits and vegetables.  Some cold-pressed juices do contain preservatives and added sugars, but the best ones are made from 100% organic fruits and vegetables–and nothing else.

Why Cold-Pressed Juice Is Tailgate-Ready

Tailgate parties are about a sense of community and a shared love of football, but beyond that, it’s about enjoying really delicious food and drink with loved ones.  Many people don’t drink alcohol for a number of reasons, which makes cold-pressed juice a refreshing, alcohol-free alternative.  For kids, it’s a better option than sugary sodas full of added sugar and preservatives.  But even the pickiest eater will be able to find a flavor that’s perfect for their tastes.

Celebrity Chef George Duran has a lot of experience messing around with unique flavors to produce exciting new recipes.  Outside of his work hosting TLC’s Ultimate Cake Off and his Food Network show Ham on the Street, Chef Duran has created several cocktail and mocktail recipes that incorporate cold-pressed juice in innovative ways.  One of his tastiest recipes is his Wonder Melon Gin Fizz, a refreshing cocktail that combines cold-pressed melon juice and gin with the skill of a master chef.  This cocktail is easy to follow and is the perfect thing to liven up any tailgate party:

Ingredients:

1 8.45 fl. oz. jar Wonder Melon Juice

2 oz. gin

1 oz. lemon juice

1 egg white

1 oz. seltzer

Directions:

Add ice into a large shaker and then add the rest of the ingredients.

Shake vigorously and strain into a chilled glass.

Serves 2

PHOTO CREDIT | Wonder Juice

The best part of cold-pressed juice is its endless number of combinations of fruits and vegetables.  In his Wonder Melon Gin Fizz recipe, Chef Duran uses Wonder Juice, a brand of cold-pressed juice that relies on 100% organic fruits and vegetables free from artificial additives and added sugars.  Those looking to branch out to new flavors can try out juices in the Wonder Melon, Wonder Lemon, and Wonder Beet brands.  Wonder Beet Beet + Lemon + Ginger can be a great ingredient in a spicy-sweet cocktail, while Wonder Lemon Lemon Mint can be the perfect mocktail substitution for a hard lemonade.

Whether one is a drinker or abstains from alcohol, cold-pressed juice is a beverage that anyone can enjoy.  Easy to mix into a cocktail/mocktail or enjoy all on its own, cold-pressed juice is healthy, refreshing, and packed with flavor.  Before the next tailgate party, stock up on cold-pressed juice to impress guests with a drink that’s as delicious as

DELIVERY OF HAPPINESS: HOW FLOWERS AND PLANTS IMPROVE OUR WELLBEING

In an ever-busy and fast-paced world, the quest for happiness and wellbeing has led many to explore various avenues of self-care and mental wellness. Among the most accessible and effective forms of enhancing one’s mood and wellbeing is through the Aussie delivery of flowers and plants. Numerous studies and anecdotal evidence have demonstrated the profound impact that nature can have on our mental, emotional, and physical health.

The Psychological Benefits of Flowers and Plants

Flowers and plants possess an array of psychological benefits, which fuel our sense of happiness and contentment. Incorporating them into our lives can be a transformative experience. Here are three key benefits:

●      Mood Enhancement. Studies have shown that being around flowers can elevate mood and promote feelings of happiness. The vibrant colors and pleasant fragrances stimulate the brain's reward system, leading to a boost in serotonin production.

●      Stress Reduction. The presence of plants and flowers can help reduce stress and anxiety levels. Interacting with nature—whether through gardening, simply viewing a flower arrangement, or spending time in a green space—can significantly lower cortisol levels, the hormone primarily associated with stress.

●      Improved Cognitive Function. Research indicates that natural elements in our surroundings can enhance concentration and cognitive function. Having plants in a workspace or home environment can lead to improved focus, increased productivity, and heightened creativity.

PHOTO CREDIT | Unsplash/Ruslan Zh

The Physical Benefits of Flowers and Plants

Beyond their psychological advantages, flowers and plants also contribute positively to our physical health. The following points illustrate how nature plays a crucial role in enhancing our physical wellbeing:

●      Air Quality Improvement. Many indoor plants are known for their ability to purify the air by absorbing toxins and releasing oxygen. Improved air quality can lead to better respiratory health and overall wellbeing.

●      Healing and Recovery. Studies have shown that being around plants can aid in the recovery process for patients in healthcare settings. Green spaces and floral displays can reduce pain perception and lead to quicker recovery times following surgery or illness.

●      Promoting Physical Activity. Engaging with plants—through gardening or simply taking a walk in a botanical garden—encourages physical activity. This boosts cardiovascular health, strengthens muscles, and improves overall fitness levels.

PHOTO CREDIT | Unsplash/Lina Trochez

Flowers and Plants in Our Daily Life

The integration of flowers and plants into our daily lives is not just an aesthetic choice; it is a profound investment in our happiness and wellbeing. Their contributions stretch beyond mere decoration; they enhance our mood, reduce stress, improve cognitive function, purify the air, support healing, and promote physical activity.

In a world increasingly dominated by technology and concrete, connecting with nature through flowers and plants offers a refreshing path toward a more fulfilling and serene life. By embracing nature, we invite happiness into our spaces and, ultimately, our hearts.

WHY HITCH BIKE RACKS ARE THE BEST WAY TO TRAVEL WITH YOUR BIKE

Traveling with your bike is an exciting prospect, especially when you’re heading to a scenic trail, a biking event, or simply exploring a new area. But transporting your bike safely can sometimes be a challenge. Thankfully, hitch bike racks offer an excellent solution for cyclists who want a convenient and reliable way to bring their bikes along. In this article, we’ll explore why a hitch bike rack is such a great choice, their benefits, and how they can make your biking adventures more enjoyable.

PHOTO CREDIT | Freepik

What Are Hitch Bike Racks?

Before diving into the benefits, it’s essential to understand what a hitch bike rack is. As the name suggests, this type of bike rack attaches to the hitch receiver of your vehicle. Unlike other options that may be mounted on the roof or trunk, hitch racks provide a sturdy and practical way to transport one or more bikes. Whether you’re a casual cyclist or a hardcore enthusiast, a hitch bike rack is a worthwhile investment that simplifies your travels.

Easy Installation and Use

One of the standout benefits of a hitch bike rack is its simplicity. These racks are easy to install and remove, making them a popular choice among bikers of all experience levels. The process involves sliding the bike rack into the hitch receiver of your vehicle, securing it with a pin or bolt, and ensuring it’s fastened properly.

Many racks come with user-friendly features like tilting mechanisms that allow you to access your trunk without removing the bikes, adding to their convenience. Once installed, the bike rack makes loading and unloading your bikes a breeze, so you can spend less time struggling with equipment and more time on the trail.

Safe and Secure Bike Transportation

A major concern when transporting bikes is ensuring they remain secure during the journey. The last thing you want is for your bike to wobble, shift, or sustain damage while you drive. Hitch bike racks are designed with safety in mind, providing a stable platform for your bikes, whether you’re driving short distances or embarking on a long road trip.

Many hitch racks come equipped with sturdy straps or clamps to hold your bikes in place, preventing unnecessary movement. Some models also feature anti-sway cradles or integrated locks, adding an extra layer of security to your travels. Knowing that your bikes are safe and sound on the back of your car gives you peace of mind and allows you to enjoy the journey.

Versatility for Different Vehicles

Hitch bike racks are versatile and can be used with a wide range of vehicles, from sedans and SUVs to trucks. As long as your vehicle has a hitch receiver, you’re good to go. This versatility makes hitch racks an excellent choice for families or groups who may want to switch the rack between vehicles without hassle.

Additionally, hitch bike racks are available in different sizes to accommodate varying numbers of bikes, from single-bike carriers to racks that can hold four or five bikes. This adaptability ensures that whether you’re traveling solo or with friends, there’s a bike rack suited to your needs.

Protect Your Bike and Your Car

Another key advantage of hitch bike racks is that they help protect both your bike and your car during transportation. Roof-mounted racks, while effective, expose your bike to wind resistance and potential damage from low-clearance obstacles like bridges or parking garages. Trunk-mounted racks, on the other hand, can scratch your vehicle's paint and even damage the trunk itself.

Hitch racks keep your bike safely positioned behind the vehicle, reducing the risk of damage from wind, debris, or low-clearance issues. The design of hitch racks minimizes contact between the rack and your car’s body, reducing the likelihood of scratches or dents. This protective benefit is especially valuable for those who drive long distances or in busy areas.

Save Fuel and Reduce Wind Resistance

Roof-mounted racks increase the aerodynamic drag of your vehicle, which can lead to decreased fuel efficiency, especially on highways. In contrast, hitch-mounted bike racks are positioned behind the vehicle, where they don’t affect the car’s aerodynamics as much. By reducing wind resistance, you’ll experience less strain on your engine and better fuel economy, which is particularly important for long trips.

The improved fuel efficiency that comes with hitch racks not only saves you money but also helps reduce your carbon footprint, making it an eco-friendly choice for bike transportation.

No More Lifting Bikes onto the Roof

One of the most practical benefits of a hitch bike rack is that it eliminates the need to lift your bike onto the roof of your vehicle. For many cyclists, hoisting a bike above shoulder height can be a daunting task, especially for heavier models or when dealing with multiple bikes. Hitch racks are positioned at a much more accessible height, so loading and unloading your bike is far easier and faster.

This is particularly beneficial for families with children’s bikes, as well as older cyclists or anyone who struggles with lifting heavy objects. With a hitch bike rack, you can load your bikes with minimal effort, allowing you to focus on the ride ahead instead of the loading process.

PHOTO CREDIT | Unsplash/Mac Blades

Options for Any Budget

When it comes to hitch bike racks, there’s something for every budget. Whether you’re looking for a basic model that does the job or a high-end rack with advanced features like integrated locks, foldable designs, and anti-theft systems, you’ll find options to suit your needs. Some affordable models still offer excellent durability and reliability, so you don’t have to break the bank to invest in a good-quality bike rack.

Researching different brands and models can help you find the best bike rack for your vehicle and budget. With a little time spent comparing features, you can get a rack that meets all your travel requirements.

Perfect for Group Rides and Family Trips

If you frequently travel with others, a hitch bike rack is an excellent choice. Many racks are designed to carry multiple bikes, making group rides or family vacations more convenient. Instead of taking multiple vehicles or leaving some bikes behind, a hitch rack allows you to transport up to four or five bikes at once, depending on the model.

This feature is particularly handy for group trips to biking events, camping excursions, or outdoor adventures where everyone wants to bring their own bike. Plus, with all the bikes securely attached to one vehicle, you can keep everyone together and reduce the risk of losing or damaging any bikes during transit.

Long-Lasting Durability

Hitch bike racks are built to last, offering years of reliable use. Made from strong materials like steel and aluminum, these racks can withstand the rigors of frequent travel and varying weather conditions. Many brands also offer rust-resistant finishes, ensuring that your rack remains in good condition for longer, even after exposure to rain, snow, or mud.

When properly maintained, a high-quality hitch bike rack can last through countless biking trips, providing excellent value for your investment. Regular cleaning and occasional tightening of bolts or fasteners will keep your rack in top shape for years to come.

Conclusion: The Hitch Bike Rack Advantage

Hitch bike racks offer numerous benefits for cyclists looking to travel with their bikes easily and safely. From the simple installation process to the protection they provide for both your bike and your vehicle, these racks are a versatile and cost-effective option for any bike enthusiast. Whether you’re heading out on a solo ride, joining a group for a weekend adventure, or taking your family on a biking vacation, a hitch bike rack ensures that your bikes are securely transported with minimal hassle.

CHRISTMAS CARD-PERFECT US HOLIDAY DESTINATIONS

We love a Christmas holiday destination. There’s nothing else like packing your cozy clothes for Christmas morning, talking about what you might serve or be served for Christmas lunch, and imagining all the snowmen you’ll build and the snowball fights you’ll have that will be followed by hot chocolate with marshmallows. Spending the holidays in the US might mean a long flight or a short drive, a white Christmas, or perhaps a warm one, but it always means a lot of love, some time off with family and friends, and delicious food wherever you are. For the perfect Christmas backdrop, check out these incredible destinations.

Solvang, California

Christmas comes early in the Danish-inspired village of Solvang, so you should plan to visit any time from late November. Quaint and charming describe Solvang year round, but the town's transformation over Christmas takes it to the next level.

Julefest, as the celebration is known, is an experience that will make you think you’ve landed in Europe rather than California. The magical tree lighting ceremony takes place on December 6th, and the parade (which features floats, marching bands, and street food) takes place down the town’s main road the following day.

The hygge (a Danish term that encompasses concepts like coziness, contentment, and friendliness) spirit overflows all season long at events like the Maker’s Market. Though Solvang is a small town, Santa Ynez Airport is easy to reach, whether on a luxury plane charter or a commercial flight.

Charleston, South Carolina

Southern hospitality is genuine and kicks into high gear over the festive season. If you love Christmas and everything that comes with it, except for the below-freezing weather, then Charleston is calling out your name.

The city is already a beautiful destination, but wait until you see it with all its classic Christmas decorations. The festive spirit is strong in Charleston, and there's a lot to do and see, both holiday-themed and otherwise. Make sure to check out which events are happening when so you can experience all the fun.

Charleston hosts the Festival of Trees every year, featuring 16 gorgeously decorated fir trees. The Sound of Charleston also happens every year, bringing you a massive dose of Christmas spirit through heartwarming carols, Christmas tunes, gospel, and jazz.

New York, New York

New York is known as one of the most enticing Christmas destinations in the world, and we certainly agree with that assessment. As the snow begins to fall, the city transforms from a hustle and bustle into a winter wonderland full of steamed-up cafe windows, sparkling lights, and the delicious scent of freshly baked goods.

If you like to stay busy, this might be your holiday destination. From the Rockettes’ Christmas special at Radio City Music Hall to ice skating in Central Park, there's festive cheer all over town. New Yorkers in general, but Brooklynites in particular go hard for the holidays, so there are a few neighborhoods worth a visit to walk by all the beautifully decorated homes.

PHOTO CREDIT | Pexels/Marani Ceja

Kennebunkport, Maine

Are you looking for something completely different from any Christmas destination you’ve tried? Spend the weeks leading up to Christmas and the holiday in Kennebunkport in snowy, cozy New England. Since Maine is so focused on fishing, it's no surprise that Santa Claus arrives on a lobster boat at the Christmas Prelude event.

The town overflows with festivity during Prelude (December 5th to December 15th), including classic holiday activities like caroling at the Franciscan Monastery. During this street festival, you can sip, nibble, and shop away any winter blues and view the town’s most famous Christmas tree made from lobster traps.

In most cultures, Christmas isn't traditionally a seafood season, but spending the holidays here will make gingerbread and sugar plums a thing of the past. Lobster rolls are the new turkey.

New Orleans, Louisiana

New Orleans doesn't do half-measures when it comes to its celebrations. The installations and decorations that pepper the city during December are the perfect complement to all the delicious festival food and drinks served up at festivals like Celebration in the Oaks, and that's over and above the delightful foodie experiences available in New Orleans all year long.

If you’re in the city on Christmas Eve, you’ll be in for a real treat at the annual lighting of the bonfires along the banks of the gorgeous Mississippi. If you’re lucky enough to stay at the Ritz Carlton, you can enjoy events like gingerbread house building and even a four-course dinner after watching the bonfires spring into action.

PHOTO CREDIT | Pexels/Luka Susak

Santa Fe, New Mexico

Christmas in a desert climate is different for many Americans, and Santa Fe is ready to be your host with the most. The city is gorgeous, warm, and welcoming all year round, but the way the plaza is lit up and twinkling every holiday season adds a bit of happiness and cheer.

If you’re the church-going type, you can attend a traditional midnight mass at the well-known and visually stunning Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis de Assisi. If art galleries are your version of church, check out the seasonal exhibits at the New Mexico Museum of Art every year. There are flamenco performances, gorgeous winter markets and fairs, and wonderfully mild temperatures to enjoy.

The Most Wonderful Time of Year

The Christmas holidays are a wonderful time of year best experienced with the ones you love. Choosing any one of these unique and enticing Christmas destinations will help you create memories that will last a lifetime.