The Tip List for Pets - Keeping Your Dog Fit and Healthy

 For pet owners and their four-legged friends, interacting with other dogs provides great opportunities for exercise and socialization. Whether it's playing at the dog park, hiking through the woods, strolling around town or making new friends at doggy daycare, these activities can improve your dog's mental and physical well-being. They can also put your dog at risk for exposure to health threats.
An ounce of prevention...
"We all love getting out of the house with our furry friends but it's important to remember that serious danger lurks in the grass, community water bowl or, if you travel with your dog, in another city," advises Julia Szabo, pet lifestyle expert. "With the right knowledge, advice from your trusted veterinarian and some simple preventive measures, it's easy to keep your dog happy and healthy."
What pet owners need to know to protect their dogs
* Ensure your dog's vaccinations are up to date.
* Always discuss your pet's lifestyle with your veterinarian to identify potential health risks and preventive measures.
* Remember to mention travel if your dog goes on the road with you, as other areas of the country may represent different health threats than what you face at home.
* Keep your pet away from wild animals, as they often carry disease, and don't allow your dog to drink from unclean water sources given that certain diseases can be spread there.
* Check regularly for ticks, which will help reduce the risk of disease transmission. Lyme disease, for example, can impact your pet's health, as well as your own.
* Fleas don't just live on your pet; they also live in your home. Vacuuming thoroughly can kill fleas and remove their eggs, helping you stop infestations. After vacuuming, seal the vacuum bag in a garbage bag and discard it in an outdoor trash container.
"Fleas and ticks are year-round hazards in many areas of the country, so it's critical to talk to your veterinarian about choosing the right product to protect your pets from these parasites and keep them out of homes," recommends Szabo. "BRAVECTO (fluralaner) is the only oral chew to deliver flea and tick protection to dogs for up to 12 full weeks. Bravecto kills fleas, prevents flea infestations, and kills ticks (black-legged tick, American dog tick, and brown dog tick) for 12 weeks. It also kills lone star ticks for 8 weeks."
Canine Influenza: An increasing health threat
You can get the flu but did you know your dog can as well? It's called canine influenza (CIV) - or dog flu - and cases of it have been popping up all over the country. In fact, canine influenza has impacted dogs in more than half the country - just since March 2015 - and new cases are being diagnosed every week.
There are two strains of canine influenza present in the dog population - H3N8 and H3N2, the latter is an Asian strain of CIV and is brand new in the United States. Because CIV is so contagious, infection can spread quickly among social dogs.
Vaccinating for both strains of CIV and minimizing exposure to potential risk factors are critical to protecting your pet.
Know your dog's risk. Does your dog:
* Play at dog parks?
* Visit doggie day care?
* Board or stay at a pet hotel?
* Visit a groomer?
* Attend dog shows or other social events with dogs?
* Greet other dogs during walks?
"I've seen the devastating impact of CIV first hand - both on a dog's health and the emotional toll it takes on owners," said veterinarian Natalie Marks, DVM, and co-owner of the Blum Animal Hospital in Chicago. "When CIV H3N2 broke in our area, we were seeing upwards of 15 cases a day at times and were scrambling to stop the spread of this very contagious disease. Now we know what we are dealing with and are able to protect at-risk dogs through vaccination and other measures. I strongly recommend that pet owners with dogs that are social and regularly commingle with other dogs speak to their veterinarian now about what is right for their pet and to fully understand what puts a dog at risk for CIV."
If you answered yes to one or more of these questions, talk with your veterinarian to determine whether CIV vaccination is appropriate for your dog.
To learn more about protection against CIV, fleas and ticks, and other pet wellness topics, please visit MyPet.com.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION: The most common adverse reactions recorded in clinical trials were vomiting, decreased appetite, diarrhea, lethargy, polydipsia, and flatulence. Bravecto has not been shown to be effective for 12-weeks' duration in puppies less than 6 months of age. Bravecto is not effective against lone star ticks beyond 8 weeks after dosing.
 IMAGE CAPTIONS: ------------------------------------------- Caption 1: It's Pet Appreciation Week June 5-11! Join us in celebrating and be sure to take a little extra time to show your pets how much they mean to you.

4 unforeseen ways Brexit could affect you

(BPT) - By now, we've all heard about Brexit - the term used to describe Britain's exit from the European Union - and a serious decision that will play a crucial role in the overall health of the global economy for months and possibly years to come. On the flip side, there are some immediate affects that could be great for your personal economic situation.
As the dust settles, consumers are set to experience a unique economic landscape. Most consumers, in one way or another, should understand the impact Brexit is having on their finances and assets. It isn't all doom and gloom - understanding how Brexit affects the average consumer can give you an advantage.
Here are five areas you should pay attention to following the Brexit.
Housing
U.S. mortgages rates are expected to remain low, if not decrease slightly due to Brexit. Uncertainty will drive lower rates with less variance, creating a buyer's market.
"Mortgage rates are likely to soon fall close to the all-time lows that prevailed in late 2012," says Alan MacEachin, Navy Federal Credit Union corporate economist. "Homeowners should assess whether refinancing would make sense for them."
What's more, prospective home buyers should be aware of the lower costs for financing their purchase. Since the housing crisis, rates have been extremely low.
What this means for you: Own a home? See if you can refinance your mortgage to a lower rate. This could save you money over time.
Still renting but in the market for a new home? Partner with a trusted lender to check the rates. If you don't have enough money for a down payment, look into 100 percent financing options, like the HomeBuyers Choice mortgage from Navy Federal Credit Union. You could get into your new home with no money out of pocket.
Use your plastics
Make the most of Brexit-influenced pricing by using your credit card as your primary form of payment. When traveling, your card will offer a better exchange rate than banks or exchange kiosks.
However, "Make sure you're using a credit card that waives foreign transaction fees," says Randy Hopper, vice president of credit cards at Navy Federal. "Otherwise, the advantages of the exchange rate could be lost entirely."
Hopper added that U.S. interest rates are likely to stay lower for longer as a result of Brexit, "meaning there's a reduced likelihood that the interest rate on most credit cards will increase anytime soon."
What this means for you: Use your credit card when traveling overseas. To avoid foreign transaction fees, choose a card from a financial institution that doesn't charge them, like Navy Federal.
Ripe for auto loans
Consumers have something to celebrate when it comes to auto loans. Considering the average age of a used car is now at 11.4 years, a new car that requires little maintenance, combined with the low rate environment, may prompt you to take a test drive on that car you've been eyeing.
"The key factor here is that rates will remain lower for longer. I expect auto sales to remain high this year, considering rates consumers are getting," MacEachin said.
What this means for you: Do your research. It may be time to upgrade your car, and there has never been a better time to do it. Run the numbers with aCar Affordability Calculator, so you can see what impact rates have on your monthly payments. Many financial institutions also offer auto loan pre-approvals, so you can shop with confidence.
Saving for retirement
Consumers years away from retirement have plenty of time to recover from any losses Brexit may cause.
For those closer to retirement, it may be a good time to check on your investments and overall retirement plan. Form a solid plan of action with your financial planner to safeguard your investments from any market volatility.
What this means for you: This is a good reminder for those saving for retirement to check up on your investments. Your financial planner will be able to provide advice that matches your retirement plan and help guide you through these times of economic uncertainty.
Got the travelbug? This one's for you!
Have you ever had the desire to visit the UK? Now might be the time. The exchange rate will decrease the cost of vacationing in the UK, as everything from meals to hotels to clothing will become more affordable. British airline fares may also decline relative to American carriers.
"The value of the British pound has dropped sharply as a result of the Brexit vote, which means the cost of a vacation in Britain would be about ten percent cheaper than it would have been just a few weeks ago," MacEachin says.
If you are flying a British or European carrier, be sure to check in with your airline before flying. Following Brexit, there is some uncertainty on how UK carriers will adjust.
What this means for you: London may be calling, so check out your travel budget and compare the pound to the U.S. dollar. Search for hotels, airfare, and entertainment at lower costs. Due to the low credit card rates, it may also be a good time to check around for any travel rewards cards.
Bottom line: The Brexit affect is only just beginning and the long-term view is that it could create some market volatility. But for the immediate future, you can take advantage of low rates on consumer loans, in addition to credit card exchange rate, and travel prices.
The time is ripe for making moves, especially if you're buying or refinancing a home, in the market for a new car, moving to using credit cards, especially overseas, or more specifically in the U.K. Cheers mate!

How to throw a seamless summer gathering

(BPT) - You’ll likely host a party or two this summer, and you want it to be an event guests remember. From dinner parties and backyard barbecues to an easy Sunday morning get-together, the most important thing at the end of the day is that you, along with your guests, have a really great time. Why entertain otherwise?
“Creating a seamless summer party is all about preparation,” says Nate Berkus, noted interior designer and artistic advisor to LG Studio. “I always tell people the most important thing is that everyone, including the host, is enjoying themselves. Make sure you brew coffee ahead of time, set out a pitcher of lemonade and decorate with a bouquet of fresh flowers. Don’t over-complicate anything from food to decor, and everything else will fall into place.”
1. Be prepared
You don’t want to be sweating the small details once the party gets started. Have your food and beverage options ready to go before guests even step in the door. Bake pastries ahead of time, brew coffee and order in from your favorite restaurant, and set it all up on the kitchen counter or island. Put silverware and glassware out, buffet-style; it’s so much easier than trying to coordinate a sit-down dinner. Plus, your guests can help themselves so you get to mingle and enjoy yourself as well.
You’ll immediately elevate a summer beverage like lemonade by adding lavender or berries, and serving it in a chic glass pitcher. "I love to create a signature cocktail at any party I host – it just feels special," Berkus says. "Set up a bar cart in the corner with other drink options, linen napkins and gold stirrers and let guests refill as they need."
2. Simplify the menu
The secret to any great party is choosing menu items that you can prepare ahead and that will totally wow your guests.
"I don’t cook but luckily I have great friends – and a husband – who do," Berkus says. "My good friend Athena Calderone of Eyeswoon makes this amazing Spinach and Goat Cheese Frittata that’s perfect to serve any size group – from two to 10. It’s truly the perfect entree for a Sunday brunch. I’m sharing the recipe because you’re going to want to try it.”
When you’re in the kitchen, make sure you’ve got the right tools and equipment - dependable appliances are a must.
 “The new line of appliances from LG Studio that I helped design combines the highest quality in design with the best of the best in terms of functionality,” Berkus says.  "It features a timeless, pro-style design that you’ll love today and 10 years from now, along with flexible performance.”
For example, the new double wall oven from LG Studio can help you cook like a pro in your own home with features like an exclusive four-mode ”true convection” technology for even heat distribution and even cooking on every rack, along with a gliding rack system that extends over the open oven door for easy and safe access to food.
3. Style seamlessly
Pick a color scheme and stick to it, then mix in neutral and wovens with things like napkin rings and small vases to create interesting texture that won’t overpower your guests. Floral arrangements or touches of greenery are a great nod to summer and will dress up any table.
"I love blushes and naturals for summer parties; it feels really fresh and inviting," Berkus says. “As far as greenery goes, I’m loving potted succulents and air plants. They create unexpected moments, and are a talking point. Green branches in vases are another great way to add height and color.”
4. Repurpose the things you love
You want your party decor to be on-point, but every party has a budget.
"I always tell people to use what they already have," Berkus says. "Pull things from around your house, like vases, trays, ceramics bowls, etc. They’ll look great whether repurposed for the buffet table, or incorporated into the tablescape."
If it’s an outdoor party, think about using your favorite lamps, throw pillows or even a rug outside to elevate the decor and really set the scene for your gathering.
These few simple steps are the key to creating a beautiful, seamless summer gathering that your guests will talk about for months to come.   And the most important thing to remember is to enjoy the moment.
Athena Calderone’s recipe:
Spinach and Goat Cheese Frittata
Ingredients:
1/2 pound baby potatoes
10 large eggs
1/3 cup creme fraiche
3/4 teaspoon salt
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 leek, halved lengthwise, rinsed and thinly sliced
1 spring onion, thinly sliced
2 cups lightly packed baby spinach
3 ounces goat cheese
Handful torn parsley
Handful chopped dill
Handful chopped chives
Salt and pepper
Directions:
Heat the oven to 350 F. Boil the potatoes until fork-tender. When cool enough to handle, thinly slice.
Whisk together the eggs, creme fraiche and salt.
Heat the oil in a 10-inch skillet, cast iron or non-stick, over medium heat. Add the leek and onion and saute until translucent. Add the potatoes and cook another few minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Stir in the spinach and cook just until wilted. Pour in the egg mixture and cook for a few minutes, pushing the cooked eggs to the center of the pan. Place in the oven and cook just until set, about 12-15 minutes.
Cool slightly. Garnish with fresh herbs.

6 deck dos for creating your own deck escape

(BPT) - No longer simply a rectangle attached to the back of your home, today’s decks are built in creative designs to make them an ideal place to relax and de-stress. These six simple ideas will allow you to use the workability of modern decking to achieve an outdoor living space that’s the perfect “deck-escape” for you.
1. Show off some curves
For years, decks have been simple rectangular shapes built with traditional lumber, but with advances in decking products, more complicated designs are now possible. Now you can build decks in virtually any shape — from giant leaves to free-flowing curves. These decks lack the severity of sharp angles, and create a more casual feel perfect for relaxation. Many of these decks are built with high performance wood-plastic composite decking, which can be bent and shaped with simple heating. Composite boards, like MoistureShield composite decking, are also easy to rip and route, which allows them to fit virtually any design and personalize your backyard retreat.
2. Add some H2-Oh!
Whether it’s a simple bird bath or an elaborate fountain, adding a water feature to your deck is an ideal way to enhance its appeal. With its clear beauty and gentle, flowing sound, water is uniquely soothing. Simply fill a wine barrel or pot with water and a few aquatic plants — and maybe some fish — for a signature piece on your deck. An affordable pump kit installed in one of these containers provides a fast and easy way to add the mystique of flowing water.
3. Landscape for the perfect escape
To create an ultra-inviting deck-escape, integrate landscaping into your design. This could be as simple as adding a few planters with fragrant flowers to soothe your senses, or as comprehensive as turning your deck into an extension of your garden by working your deck design specifically around trees or shrubs. With better workability than wood, modern materials like composite decking can be curved to seamlessly encircle a tree or frame a garden.
4. Raise the curtain on elegant design
Suspending fabric over your deck is a simple, low-cost way to create an inviting retreat space. Fabric can be hung in a straight line or draped from an overhead hoop, pergola or trellis to create a private canopy. Patterned fabrics showcase your personal taste and offer welcome shade, while sheer fabrics add elegance and provide a balance between privacy and preserving views.
5. Achieve off-the-wall creativity with a planted wall
A fun and unusual way to create an open-air retreat is a wall of plants. For decks attached to the house, hanging planters along the height and width of an adjacent wall creates a dramatic visual. Or, a simple freestanding wall along one of the deck’s edges can be built for hanging plants. Choose leafy plants like elephant ears or ferns for a relaxing green backdrop, or add flowers for a pop of your favorite colors. You can even plant herbs for a tasty addition to your grilled recipes.
6. Get on board with a boardwalk
For the ultimate escape from the everyday routine, build a low-lying boardwalk that leads from your deck to a secret retreat hidden by hedges, shrubs or lattice screens. This retreat space does not have to be over-the-top. It can be as simple as a small platform deck with a comfortable chair or hammock. To create your boardwalk to paradise, look for composite decking brands that can be installed with ground and water contact. “High-performance composites won’t rot, crack or fail even when fully submerged,” says Brent Gwatney, senior vice president of MoistureShield composite decking. “Some composites are even made with up to 95 percent recycled content, so you can rest well knowing you’ve made an environmentally-friendly choice.”

10 simple ideas for maximizing family time throughout the summer

(BPT) - Today's modern family juggles a multitude of obligations that keep schedules incredibly busy during the summertime. Parents balance work, errands and housework with sports practices, day camps and music lessons. Fortunately, creating quality time for family doesn't require a lavish vacation or expensive activities. Here are 10 surprisingly simple ideas to help carve out more time for bonding and creating lasting memories with your family.
Read
When kids are little, the day often ends with a storybook. When children grow, don't let their love of reading dwindle. Read a chapter from a longer book each day with your elementary-aged child. For older kids, select a book or series and start a family book club. Discuss your pick weekly over a meal or sweet treat.
Indulge
July is National Ice Cream Month! Enjoy the bonding benefits of enjoying a treat together later in the day by sharing a dessert. Indulge in Jack Nicklaus Ice Cream, created by the golf legend and his wife Barbara - themselves parents of five children and grandparents of 22 - in partnership with The Schwan Food Company. Plus, feel good that this delicious treat supports Children's Miracle Network Hospitals. Scoop up some creamy black cherry or chocolate peanut butter swirl and let the conversation flow. Learn more at jacknicklausicecream.com.
Volunteer
Volunteering is a wonderful family activity that can be done once, or on a more regular schedule. Not only will you teach your kids the importance of giving back to the community, but you'll also instill in them important traits like empathy, understanding and optimism.
Play
Looking for an outdoor activity that gets you up and moving? Miniature golf is a great option that is adored by kids and kids-at-heart, plus it's an affordable way to spend time together. Look up local courses and head out for some friendly competition - beat the heat and go at night!
Reminisce
Dig out old family videos and photo albums and go through them with your children. You'll enjoy taking a trip down memory lane, and your kids will enjoy poking fun at your questionable fashion choices of the past.
Walk
Taking walks with your family is great exercise and an easy way to catch up on life's happenings. Make it an evening ritual. Explore your neighborhood or select new parks in the area within a short distance.
Celebrate
Celebrations aren't just for birthdays. Small achievements deserve recognition, too. Did someone have a big hit or make a great play at Little League? Make his or her favorite dinner. Did someone complete a scout project? Picnic at the park. Mom landed a new client at work? Create sundaes with Jack Nicklaus Ice Cream and plenty of toppings.
Call
A crazy schedule leaves little time for keeping in touch with relatives. Stay close to grandparents and other loved ones by designating time to call them together. A phone conversation or video chat session can mean the world to family you rarely see.
Listen
Give your child your undivided attention once a day. Just 10 minutes, perhaps during breakfast or before bed, shows you care. Let them lead the conversation about how the day went and what they did. You'll learn amazing things about your child when you open your ears.
Explore 
Does your child have a favorite hobby? Get out of your comfort zone and try it together. Whether it's drawing anime, building robots or tap dancing, let your child teach you about the things he or she loves. Plus, you'll demonstrate resilience and willingness to learn.

Using technology to empower people with diabetes

(BPT) - Technology has influenced virtually every aspect of our lives. Arguably one of the biggest areas of change is in health care. From advanced surgical tools to early disease testing, every day new technology emerges in an effort to help people stay healthy and live longer. Wearable technology now puts information directly in the hands of the patient, helping people do everything from tracking steps to counting calories. Now, smartphone apps are getting even smarter, allowing physicians, patients and their loved ones if they choose, in-depth access to important health information in just a few finger taps.
Those in the diabetes community are embracing this new mobile technology enthusiastically to better manage their condition. Keeping a written logbook can be time-consuming, confusing and frustrating for patients. Now, critical diabetes information is easier to manage and understand with the Accu-Chek Connect(R) Diabetes Management System.
With test results automatically sent from the Accu-Chek Aviva Connect meter to an app on your smartphone and an online portal, people with diabetes are able to log, view and share data anytime, anywhere, without ever writing in a logbook. Thus, never worrying about forgetting to bring this information to their physicians for important visits. Rarely do we forget our phones. They can be lifelines in more ways than one.
"The Accu-Chek Aviva Connect helps to create a sense of confidence for the person who is trying to self-manage their condition," says Dr. David Robertson, MD of Atlanta Diabetes Associates. "It can help demystify diabetes and bring a sense of order to a very complex condition that is a constant burden to patients."
The system allows users to have text results sent automatically, plus you can attach meal photos, view trends and even use the app's insulin calculator. Considering 91 percent of adults keep their smartphones within arm's reach, it's simple to track important information quickly and efficiently.
Beyond patient empowerment, technology like this better facilitates the patient-doctor relationship. Because the system loads all information into an online portal stored in the cloud, it can be accessed at any time by the physician if the patient chooses. This means a snapshot of the bigger picture is always available, whether in-person at an appointment or while the patient is on the other side of the world.
What's more, the doctor can activate an insulin calculator in the app, the Accu-Chek Bolus Advisor, which makes it simple for patients to calculate how much insulin is needed at each meal. That means patients can enjoy their meals without worrying about the math.
"Perhaps no community is better suited for this type of advanced technology than the diabetes community," says Dr. Robertson. "Knowledge is power. This detailed information is incredibly helpful to physicians so we can spot trends and make informed decisions along with the patient. Technology here is the tool to success."
Learn more about how technology is transforming the diabetes community by visiting accu-chek.com/connect. Accu-Chek Connect is available at Walgreens, Rite Aid and select Kroger locations.

Smart jewelry: The fashion-forward way to stay connected

(BPT) - Jewelry has signified the bonds between people since the ancient Egyptians created the wedding band. But the digital revolution is quickly converting jewelry from a symbol of connection to wireless ways to stay connected.
Rings, watches, pendants - even cufflinks - have been transformed into miniature electronic devices that keep us in touch with people, including ourselves. This merger of fashion and function is catching on fast with consumers.
According to Gartner Inc., an information technology and research advisory firm, purchases of wearable smart devices will increase 16 percent in 2016, with smartwatch sales alone predicted to rise a whopping 66 percent.
The wearable device trend took off a decade ago, primarily for fitness. The Nike+iPod fitness tracker was the forerunner for a flood of new products embedded with tiny sensors that report the wearer's workout progress.
Functions, aesthetics determine price
Today, nearly all the major tech companies compete in the smartwatch market, including Apple, Google, Microsoft, Motorola and Samsung. Meanwhile, some traditional watchmakers - such as Tag Heuer - have developed their own high-tech timepieces.
Top designers are also collaborating with high-tech developers to create smart rings, bracelets, necklaces and other fine and fashion jewelry. FitBit, for instance, offers a line of fitness trackers conceived by Tory Burch, a well-known women's wear designer. The technology is embedded in embossed metallic pendants and bracelets.
Protect smart investments
Since smart jewelry could be a major jewelry investment - second only, perhaps, to an engagement ring - it's important to adequately protect it with insurance.
Most homeowners insurance policies cover jewelry to some extent. In many cases, however, your coverage may be limited. Plus, a jewelry claim could affect the status of your entire policy. That's why it's important to evaluate your insurance options.
Typical warranties and protection plans won't reimburse you if your smart jewelry disappears under mysterious circumstances - meaning you're not sure whether it was lost or stolen. The best jewelry insurers, such as Jewelers Mutual Insurance Company, a leader in jewelry insurance since 1913, will cover loss in such circumstances. They will also repair or replace the item through the jeweler or manufacturer of your choice and a loss.
If you're someone who appreciates socially responsible companies, there's another reason to look up Jewelers Mutual. This summer, the company is making news by offering $2 million in donations to nonprofits that fight hunger, provide affordable housing and deliver medical research and exceptional care to kids battling cancer and other life-threatening diseases.
As part of its "Band Together" campaign, Jewelers Mutual is inviting consumers to select which cause receives the largest share of its unprecedented philanthropic gift. For everyone who casts votes at JewelersMutual.com/BandTogether from July 11-31, this campaign offers more than the chance to help their favorite nonprofits. Every individual who answers the call to "Band Together" online will be eligible to win a set of three stacking bands fromStacked New York. Three exquisite sets will be given away during the campaign. While, the bands are not the kind equipped with smart technology, they are a smart fashion choice and symbolize the timeless bonds that connect people to something bigger than themselves.

Your beauty routine's dirty little secrets and what small steps you can do to improve your regimen

(BPT) - Whether you are heading to a backyard barbeque or a summer soiree, a healthy, glowing complexion is the best accessory this summer. Everyone knows the drill about proper skin cleansing and moisturizing regimens, however, many women are interfering with their skin health by not taking the same care when it comes to their beauty products.
"Keeping skin looking radiant is no small feat," says Stacey Ramstedt, senior director of marketing at Paris Presents Incorporated, a global leader in beauty products and personal care accessories. "Women are careful about the makeup and products they use on their skin, but overlook the importance of maintaining those products for optimal use and skin health."
Are you guilty of these dirty secrets?
Mistake 1: Never washing makeup brushes
A whopping 43 percent of makeup brush users report they never wash their makeup brushes, according to a 2014 quantitative online survey among 212 makeup brush users. Brushes not only collect makeup residue, but they also hold dirt, oil and other impurities. A regular maintenance routine ensures brushes are clean when they touch your skin, plus it boosts brush performance and integrity so they last longer.
Cleaning makeup brushes does not have to be a time-consuming chore. For daily cleaning and quick color changes, try EcoTools Makeup Brush Cleansing Cloths. They help keep your brushes fresh and conditioned. For a weekly deeper clean, use EcoTools Makeup Brush Shampoo to get your brushes back to new. Both are made from plant-based ingredients and are dermatologist tested so they are safe for sensitive skin.
Mistake 2: Using expired makeup
Similar to the kale salad you had for lunch, your makeup comes with an expiration date. While it may not give a specific "use by" date, the general rule is to replace mascara and eyeliners every three months, liquid foundation every six months and powder eyeshadow every two years. We all struggle with letting go, with 89 percent of women hanging on to makeup just in case they need it later, according to a Stowaway Cosmetics survey. Which means at best makeup will be poor-performing, and at worst, it can bring bacteria to the skin and eyes, causing irritation.
Keep in mind, the more often you use the product, especially with your fingers, the more often you should replace it.
Mistake 3: Relying on products to include your sun protection
It is no secret that sunscreen helps maintain skin health. By blocking dangerous ultraviolet rays, sunscreen is a key tool to protect the skin against cancer and premature aging. Recognizing the benefits, most face lotions and products on the market today include a sunscreen ingredient. But be cautious, similar to the products in your makeup bag, sunscreens do not last forever and should be replenished.
While sunscreens are designed to remain at original strength for up to three years, according to the Mayo Clinic, the sunscreen ingredients in your favorite face products may not last as long. In fact, facial moisturizers and serums should be tossed after six months to a year. Be on the lookout for PAO (Period After Opening) notations on new products or look for a number followed by an M to tell you how many months after opening the product should be tossed. To be safe, be sure to use an oil-free high SPF face sunscreen after your moisturizer to provide any extra level of protection all summer long.

Why your employer wants you to volunteer - and why you should

(BPT) - Does your employer consider community service part of a job well done? If you're wondering whether you should take advantage of your employer's offer to pay you for volunteer time, keep in mind employee volunteerism benefits everyone involved - your company, the organization you'll help and you!
Approximately 21 percent of employers now give workers paid time off for volunteering, according to the Society for Human Resource Management. Sponsoring volunteerism can help a company boost employee morale, enhance recruitment efforts and even improve the business' standing in the community. Volunteering can also benefit you emotionally and in your career.
For example, through the Investing in America's Health initiative, employees of Blue Cross Blue Shield's 36 community-based and locally operated companies (BCBS) volunteered nearly 400,000 hours and provided more than $10 million in donations in 2015. BCBS workers volunteered and provided financial support to programs and organizations involved in improving public health.
Workers involved in the BCBS initiative reported experiencing many of the benefits commonly associated with volunteerism, including:
* Emotional rewards - Multiple studies have shown that volunteering makes people feel more socially connected and emotionally fulfilled, and can reduce feelings of loneliness and depression.
* Enhanced camaraderie with co-workers - Employees who volunteer together consistently report feeling more connected to their co-workers and their communities. Volunteering together can be a fulfilling and effective team-building activity.
* Improving their community - Because employer-sponsored volunteer programs take place at a local level, when you participate you're directly improving your own community.
* Add depth to professional credentials - Current and future employers don't just want people with job skills, they want to know they're hiring compassionate, caring and well-rounded individuals. Participation in employee-sponsored volunteer programs enhances your overall appeal as a professional.
If you would like to become involved in volunteering through an employer-sponsored program, here are some ways to get started:
* Talk to your human resources department about your company's program to better understand how it works. For example, does the company have an established volunteer relationship with a charitable or community organization? Or will your employer support your volunteerism with any qualifying organization? Will you receive paid-time-off for volunteering, and if so, how many hours per month? Does your employer also offer cash donations or a donation matching program to support charitable contributions?
* If your employer has a policy that allows you to volunteer anywhere, identify the group you want to volunteer with. Be aware of any standards your employer may have established for qualifying organizations. Look for a volunteer opportunity that allows you to do something you're passionate about and that supports your local community.
* Gather information from the volunteer organization on what you need to do in order to take part as a volunteer. For example, will you need to participate in any specialized training? Will you need to agree to a background check if you'll be working with children?
If your employer doesn't yet have a program, take the initiative and suggest they start one. This can be as simple as identifying your worthy cause and asking your employer for support in volunteering.
To learn more about how BCBS companies are improving the health and wellness of members and their communities, view the report at www.bcbs.com.

10 simple ideas for maximizing family time throughout the summer

(BPT) - Today's modern family juggles a multitude of obligations that keep schedules incredibly busy during the summertime. Parents balance work, errands and housework with sports practices, day camps and music lessons. Fortunately, creating quality time for family doesn't require a lavish vacation or expensive activities. Here are 10 surprisingly simple ideas to help carve out more time for bonding and creating lasting memories with your family.
Read
When kids are little, the day often ends with a storybook. When children grow, don't let their love of reading dwindle. Read a chapter from a longer book each day with your elementary-aged child. For older kids, select a book or series and start a family book club. Discuss your pick weekly over a meal or sweet treat.
Indulge
July is National Ice Cream Month! Enjoy the bonding benefits of enjoying a treat together later in the day by sharing a dessert. Indulge in Jack Nicklaus Ice Cream, created by the golf legend and his wife Barbara - themselves parents of five children and grandparents of 22 - in partnership with The Schwan Food Company. Plus, feel good that this delicious treat supports Children's Miracle Network Hospitals. Scoop up some creamy black cherry or chocolate peanut butter swirl and let the conversation flow. Learn more at jacknicklausicecream.com.
Volunteer
Volunteering is a wonderful family activity that can be done once, or on a more regular schedule. Not only will you teach your kids the importance of giving back to the community, but you'll also instill in them important traits like empathy, understanding and optimism.
Play
Looking for an outdoor activity that gets you up and moving? Miniature golf is a great option that is adored by kids and kids-at-heart, plus it's an affordable way to spend time together. Look up local courses and head out for some friendly competition - beat the heat and go at night!
Reminisce
Dig out old family videos and photo albums and go through them with your children. You'll enjoy taking a trip down memory lane, and your kids will enjoy poking fun at your questionable fashion choices of the past.
Walk
Taking walks with your family is great exercise and an easy way to catch up on life's happenings. Make it an evening ritual. Explore your neighborhood or select new parks in the area within a short distance.
Celebrate
Celebrations aren't just for birthdays. Small achievements deserve recognition, too. Did someone have a big hit or make a great play at Little League? Make his or her favorite dinner. Did someone complete a scout project? Picnic at the park. Mom landed a new client at work? Create sundaes with Jack Nicklaus Ice Cream and plenty of toppings.
Call
A crazy schedule leaves little time for keeping in touch with relatives. Stay close to grandparents and other loved ones by designating time to call them together. A phone conversation or video chat session can mean the world to family you rarely see.
Listen
Give your child your undivided attention once a day. Just 10 minutes, perhaps during breakfast or before bed, shows you care. Let them lead the conversation about how the day went and what they did. You'll learn amazing things about your child when you open your ears.
Explore 
Does your child have a favorite hobby? Get out of your comfort zone and try it together. Whether it's drawing anime, building robots or tap dancing, let your child teach you about the things he or she loves. Plus, you'll demonstrate resilience and willingness to learn.

5 hot trends in school supplies

(BPT) - School supplies have never been this stylish. Sure, you should stock up on classic highlighters and yellow pencils, but why stop there? Why not reach for a binder with an elegant rose-foil design or a zipper pouch with a sassy slogan? Will these expressive touches make your kid study harder? They can’t hurt, especially if it makes them even a teensy bit excited to hit the books and stay organized. Here is a roundup of some of the year’s hottest trends for school supplies. 
Precious metals and metallic accents Who says the pocket calculator has to be a style buster? The Maze Calculator is dressed up with glitter for an instant accessory. Look for fun accents, such as metallic pencils and pens. Better Binders are stimulating with holographic patterns. Even backpacks, lunch bags and zipper pouches refuse to be anything but fabulous, as seen in a line that comes in metallic silver by designer Cynthia Rowley (find her line of school and office products exclusively at Staples).
Tropical themes This year’s hot tropical look is popping up all over back-to-school essentials. Toucans, pineapples and palm trees can be found on notebooks and backpacks, bringing some fun into the classroom. A collection of “beach umbrella” pencils in hues of orange, purple, blue and yellow from Ticonderoga are a great accent to brighten up your student’s day.
Bohemian vibe Bold, intricate prints adorn Mead notebooks and Carolina Pad binders, evoking a romantic, free-spirited, hippie-chic fashion sense. Expressive sayings about traveling the world are found on Gartner Studios notebooks, taking students out of the classroom and on their own personal adventure.
Fun with LOL cats “Cat selfies” and feline-themed vintage movie posters play up the laughs on C.R. Gibson 1-subject and composition notebooks. But if cute and cuddly is what your child likes, there is plenty of that as well. Spiral notebooks from Carolina Pad feature cute, graphic prints of large-eyed pandas, foxes and hedgehogs.
Timeless Of course, classic never goes out of style, and you can find notebooks, pens, folders and more at the lowest prices thanks to the Less List for School at Staples. You can also save money on technology (calculators, USB drives, batteries and ear buds) and additional items like storage totes, tissue, hand sanitizer and more on the Less List for School.

Helping first-time home buyers get from 'I can't' to 'I can'

(BPT) - Finally! The economy is improving, interest rates are low and many consumers now find themselves in a great position financially to become a first-time homeowner. There's a small problem though for some locations around the country - the booming real estate market is resulting in rising home prices and increased competition for the most desirable properties.
The S&P/Case-Shiller national home-price index recently estimated that 2016 prices are within four percent of the peak in 2006. In some areas, low inventories around the country are making the situation even more challenging.
These conditions are introducing first-time buyers to common challenges and frustrations while searching for their dream home. "Don't get discouraged," says Travis Peace, executive director of mortgage at USAA Bank. "Buying a home requires some fortitude and the process intimidates many -not just those doing it for the first time." As a result, Peace says it's easy to concentrate too much on home buying "can'ts" rather than "can-dos," and he offers this advice on how to overcome some common barriers.
"I Can't" No. 1: I can't figure out the home-buying process.
Peace notes that it's essential to do research and to be equipped with basic information, but also be willing to ask for help when needed. For example, an experienced real estate agent can keep a buyer apprised of everything from area sales trends to the latest changes in state and federal laws that could impact a mortgage application.
"This is where experienced, licensed professionals can help," Peace says. "Real estate agents can be an advocate for the buyer throughout the entire process."
In addition, free tools like USAA's Real Estate Rewards Network can connect buyers with an agent and even provide rewards based on the sale price of the home.
"I Can't" No. 2: I can't find the perfect home for my family.
Finding the perfect home may not be realistic, but shoppers can find the right home. Personal situations will dictate buyers' ability to wait for a home in a particular neighborhood or design style to come on the market, but not everything has to be left to chance.
Peace says the key is to set realistic expectations and not fixate on negatives that can be changed. "Whether it's the number of bedrooms or distance to work or school, it's alright to have some non-negotiables. However, buyers should be willing to be flexible on things that can be relatively easy to change, like paint colors or landscaping."
"I Can't" No. 3: I can't afford a 20 percent down payment.
Putting 20 percent down on a home has become more of a guideline than a rule. Today, not being able to put 20 percent down does not mean buying a home is out of reach. Peace notes that depending on a buyer's financial situation, there may be a responsible way to get into your new home without putting 20 percent down.
Government-sponsored loan programs from the Federal Housing Authority, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac provide loan options that require down payments as low as three percent. Veterans Affairs (VA) loans don't require any down payment. While those programs are often great options for consumers who qualify, Peace notes that buyers should keep an eye on their potential total monthly payment.
"Some of these loans include fees and private mortgage insurance (PMI) that could significantly impact your overall cost," Peace says.
Even private lenders are offering more competitive loan options. For example, USAA Bank's Conventional 97 loan allows borrowers to acquire a mortgage with only three percent down and the bank pays the PMI costs.
Scott McEniry, a USAA member, recently moved into his new home with the help of the Conventional 97 loan. "It felt like a lifeline had been thrown to me as suddenly a house purchase was within reach again," McEniry says.
Whether a house-hunting novice or seasoned expert, Peace underscores that being informed, getting the right help and having a healthy dose of determination are the best ways to turn a dream home into a reality.