Category: Health

I was a devoted sports fan when I was teenager. If my teams lost – and they often did – I’d feel sad for days. Later I questioned my choices, but remained loyal to my school and hometown teams. After decades of devotion, some became champions, others may never. 

Things went differently with American politics. I chose one team and they only had one rival. The wins came often enough, but the losses seem to injure more deeply.

And then I realized American voters provide gravity, inexorably pulling the pendulum back towards center. Our founders were genius. I thank God for it.

– Chris Schroder, The 100 Companies

Enjoy gifts for travelers like a backpack made from recycled plastic, a portable power pack that charges your phone and can jump your car, a floating wet bag and our new favorite travel pillow in this year’s gift guide.

We’ve also got fun items for home, like solar-powered Bluetooth speakers, a gorgeous ornament and a crossbody purse with proceeds that benefit the Ukraine crisis.

Check out the baby massager to soothe your little one and a light sanitizer that clips to your phone that can kill germs on just about any surface.

Enjoy The Travel 100’s 2022 gift guide. Happy holidays!

– Jan Schroder, The Travel 100

‘Tis the season for holiday parties, and there are several things to consider if you’re the one hosting:

1. Choose the right setting: Where you host a party can play an important role in the mood for the event. Plan on booking a venue or consider hosting in your own home with appropriately chosen music and decor elements.

2. Select an inclusive menu: Make sure the party menu includes a few vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free or keto dining options.

3. Stick to a reasonable budget: Set a budget early in the planning stage for the party, and stick to it as closely as possible.

– De’Andra Gaston, 360 Media, Inc., The Atlanta 100

The pressure is on! Not only are you searching for the perfect gift, it has to get there on time to make it under the Christmas tree.

Even if you are sending a card stuffed with concert tickets (or another fun experience), you definitely don’t want it to get caught up at the post office.

The USPS has just announced their holiday shipping deadlines for 2022. They’ve got all the shipping information that you need to make sure your package gets delivered on time – whether it is a loved one in another state or a member of the military serving overseas.

– EJ Ugdang, C2 Communications, The Southwest Florida 100

For some people, music is more of a distraction than a motivator. But if you’re someone who needs background noise for stimulation and focus, here are four playlists that will keep you grooving from your chair, all while allowing you to concentrate on the tasks at hand. 

1. Lofi Café: Smooth, mellow beats to vibe to at your desk.

2. Sweet Soul Chillout: A mix of old and new soul. 

3. Indie Pop: Songs that sound like summer. 

4. Snowing at the Castle: Classical tv and movie soundtracks to spark nostalgia. 

And now it’s time to put those headphones on and get to work.

– Maggie Medoff, The Pittsburgh 100

The sun is higher and days are longer. It’s the perfect time to grab a book and head outdoors. Take some “me” time to dive into an interesting and fun read while soaking up some vitamin D:

• “One Italian Summer” (Rebecca Serle): Not your typical love story and not to be overlooked. 

• “Disorientation” (Elaine Hsieh Chou): A satire you’ll laugh and learn with. 

• “You Made A Fool of Death With Your Beauty” (Awkwaeke Emezi): To be released in May, for anyone who’s looking for new beginnings.

• “It Ends With Us” (Colleen Hoover): The kind of story you can’t put down. 

– MaryGrace Williams, The Atlanta 100

If you’re like most people, you like to keep your home at a comfortable temperature throughout the year. However, running your heater or air conditioner constantly uses a lot of energy, and your electric and gas bills can seriously add up over time.

Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to reduce your energy costs, saving money without having to sacrifice comfort. Try these helpful tips, and watch the savings roll in:

• Check window and door seals.

• Upgrade your insulation.

• Use a programmable thermostat.

It’s all about striking a balance between comfort and affordability to find what works best for you.

– RightSure

Considering new energy-efficient appliances for your home? Follow these steps to balance your needs and budget:

• Choose the right size – With HVAC units, it’s crucial to select the appropriate size for your home so check how many square feet it can accommodate.

• Look for energy-efficient settings – Dishwashers and washing machines have settings that regulate water levels for heavier or lighter loads.

• Consider both upfront and ongoing costs – Labels show annual operating costs, so compare the upgrade price to its savings over time.

• Think about the environment – By using less non-renewable energy, everyone can help preserve the environment for future generations.

– Jeff Arnold, President, RightSure

Whether your holiday budget is tight this year, or you’re unsure of what to get friends and family, there are tons of ways to make great gifts with items you probably have at home. Besides, nothing beats creating something special for a loved one.

Here are three DIY gifts to try: 

1. Cinnamon sugar hand scrub: You only need four ingredients – brown sugar, cinnamon, coconut oil and vanilla extract. 

2. Photo ornaments: Share your favorite memories through photos and customize them with ribbons or other decorative items. 

3. Stovetop potpourri: Combine classic holiday herbs and spices for a nice-smelling home accessory.

– Maggie Medoff, The Pittsburgh 100