Surnames originally evolved so that people could be sorted into groups. These names sorted people by occupation, class, place of origin, and many other things. Also, many of the modern surnames can be traced back to either Britain or Ireland. The family name of Comick is the 1,806,862 most common surname in the world. People with this family name are most prevalent in the United States. If you are someone who has this family name, and you are looking for some information, this article is for you. Discover the history of the Comick family name and learn about some unique facts surrounding the surname.

The Meaning and Origin of the Comick Family Name

The name Comick is the Americanized form of the German name Romig. Romig means “a pilgrim to Rome” and was frequently used as a nickname for someone who made a pilgrimage to Rome. While Romig might trace its origins back to Greek ancestry, it is now predominately found across the United States, as the name Comick, from immigrants who carried it there.  Besides the United States, the name Comick can also be found in England and Ireland.

History of the Comick Family Name

The Comick family name was found in the USA, the UK, Canada, and Scotland between the years of 1840 and 1920. However, the majority of the Comick families were found in the United States. Also, they were most prevalent in the year 1880. Additionally, according to Ancestory.com, the top male occupation for the Comick’s in 1940 in the United States was a laborer. However, in Canada, it was a farmer. Furthermore, for the women with this family name, in the United States, the top job was a typist. This surname is most frequently used in the United States where it is held by 204 people. It is the most numerous in Texas, Massachusetts, and California. 

Variations of the Comick Family Name 

Comick is not the only spelling of this family name. Below are some common spelling variations for the Comick family name:

• Commick 
• Comic 
• Comik 
• Carmick 
• Komick 
• Coomic
• Commik 
• Comisk 
• Cammick 
• Commike 
• Romig 
• Romack

Interesting Facts About the Comick Family Name 

• According to data, the average Comick salary in the United States is $46,274. 
• 50% of the Comick’s in Ireland are Presbyterian. 
• In the United States, those with the name Comick are 25.56% more likely to belong to the Democratic Party. 
• Besides their top job as laborers, popular jobs for this family name also included farmers, clerks, and assemblers. 
• According to Ancestry, the life expectancy for the Cormick family name was lowest in 1970 and highest in 1983, where it was even higher than the general population's average lifespan.  

Famous People With the Comick Family Name 

While it can be difficult to find famous people with the exact spelling of Comick, here are some famous people who have a variation of the Comick family name. 

• Drew Romig — American soccer player 
• Ethel Romig Fuller — American poet 
• James Romig — American composer 
• John Romig — American track and field athlete 
• Eric Romack — Former Major League Baseball pitcher 
• Lesly Romack — Canadian professional ice hockey player 
• Christopher Romack — Actor known for films like Mobsters, Terminal Cafe, and Swindle 
• Mark Romack — American saxophonist, songwriter, and composer

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Many people want to learn more about their family history as it provides them with a deeper sense of personal identity. Discovering the meaning of their family name and what their ancestors did allows them to connect with their family and find other living relatives. Additionally, it can even provide insight into certain family conditions or medical history. In this article, we will be discussing the family name Ward. Also, we will uncover what it means, its history, and so much more.

The Meaning and Origin of the Ward Family Name

The Ward family name is of both English and Irish descent. With regards to English descent, Ward was a common occupational name for a watchman. The Middle English word ‘ward' meant “watchman guard” or the Old English word ‘weard', which meant “watching, guarding.” Furthermore, concerning Irish descent, the name Ward was shortened from the name McWard which means “son of the poet.” The surname Ward is most likely found in the United States, England, and Ireland.

History of the Ward Family Name

The surname Ward was found in the USA, the UK, Canada, Ireland, and Scotland between the years 1840 and 1920, although the majority of the Ward families were found in the United Kingdom. In the United States, most Ward families were found in New York. The Ward family had a shorter lifespan than the general population in 1940. This could indicate that Ward's ancestors lived in harsh conditions or had family health problems that were passed down through generations.

In the past, men and women often performed very different jobs. In 1921, the three top jobs for males with the surname Ward were agricultural laborer, coal miner, and general laborer. For women in 1921, the top three jobs were dressmaker, domestic servant, and laundress. Their roles slightly changed in later years during the 1940s. For men, the top three jobs then were laborer, farmer, and salesman. For women, the top three jobs were, maid, housekeeper, and teacher.

Variations of the Ward Family Name

Ward is not the only spelling of this family name. Below are some common spelling variations of the Ward family name:

• Warde
• Warden
• Wardman
• Wordman
• Wards
• Wardle
• Wardlow
• Wardale
• MacWard
• McWard
• Macanward
• MacCanward
• MacAward

Interesting Facts About the Ward Family Name

• Ward is the 32nd most common surname in the UK.
• The lifespan of a Ward family member has dramatically improved since 1940. In 1940 the average life expectancy for the Ward family was 29, in 2004 it increased to 73.
• According to data from Find My Past, people with the last name Ward are most likely to marry Smiths and Browns.
• In the United States, Ward is the 66th most popular surname.
• The most common first names for someone with the surname Ward are John, William, Mary, and Elizabeth.

Famous People With the Ward Family Name

• Freddie Joe Ward — American actor and producer
• Kevin Michale Ward — American Major League Baseball player
• Artemas Ward — American general in the American Revolution, later served in the U.S. Congress
• Danielle Ward — British comedian and writer
• Denzel Ward — American football player

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Most people are interested in learning their family history, for instance, there are over 15 million people in the AncestoryDNA network. Learning more about your family history usually begins with learning the meaning of your family name. Also, having a deeper understanding of your family's name can help you feel connected with your ancestors and provide you with a deeper sense of self. In this article, we will be discussing the family name Heffer. Additionally, we will uncover the Heffer family name, its meaning, history, and more.

The Meaning and Origin of the Heffer Family Name

The name Heffer is of English descent. In the Middle English language, it meant “young cow.” In the Old English Language, it meant “place where furze was cut.” Another common spelling of this surname is Hefner. Hefner has German and Jewish origins and it was an occupational name for a potter. Furthermore, the surname Hefner is most likely to be found in the United States, Germany, and Hungary.

History of the Heffer Family Name

Between 1840 and 1920, the Heffer family name was found in the United States, the UK, Canada, and Scotland. Most Heffer families were found in the United Kingdom, however. In the United States, the highest population of Heffers was in Pennsylvania. Jobs for men and women used to differ greatly. In 1940, the top job for men with the Heffer family name in the United States was a laborer, whereas for women, it was a waitress. The top jobs differed by location as well. For example, in Canada, the top job for men of this family name was a farmer. Also, in England, the top job for women was unpaid domestic duties. The average lifespan for someone with the Heffer family name was 55 in in 1951. Luckily, by 2003 that lifespan has increased to 71.

Variations of the Heffer Family Name

Heffer is not the only spelling variation of this surname. Below are other common variations of this family name.

• Heffer
• Heiffer
• Hefner
• Heffner
• Hayfour
• Heifers

Famous People With the Name Heffer

Some famous people with the name Heffer include:

• Simon Heffer – British journalist, author, and political commentator
• Richar Heffer – British television and film actor

Many famous people have this last name with the spelling Hefner. Some examples include:

• Cole Hefner – American politician
• Hugh Hefner- Founder of Playboy magazine
• James. A Hefner – President of Tennessee State University
• Ray Heffner – President of Brown University

The image featured at the top of this post is ©SergeyYrev/Shutterstock.com.

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What is samphire, or as it is commonly known, sea asparagus? If you do not know, you are most likely not the only one. However, did you know that this marine vegetable is delicious and nutritious? It's called samphire, and it is gaining popularity in kitchens across the globe. From adding flavor to your favorite dish to helping fight off cancer, this is a vegetable you want on your radar. In this article, we will answer the question of what is samphire? We will also discuss how you cook it and all the health benefits that it has to offer. Grab a pen and a piece of paper because you will want to write this down; let's dive in.

What is Samphire?  

The name samphire encompasses a wide variety of succulent salt-tolerant plants. While there are many varieties of this plant, the two most commonly used in cooking are rock samphire and marsh samphire. This plant is also commonly referred to as sea asparagus. The more popular of the two species, marsh samphire (Salicornia europaea), looks like small asparagus and grows along shorelines and beaches. It belongs to the same family as beets. People can find it in both Europe and North America. Besides being used in the kitchen, marsh samphire was also used to make soap and glass. 

Rock samphire (Crithmum maritimum) is less common and less well-known than the marsh samphire species. It belongs to the Umbelliferae family, along with carrots, celery, fennel, and parsnips.  Although most people would not recognize this plant now, in the past it was more commonly used for food than the marsh samphire. The marsh samphire was more heavily used in the glass-making aspect and was only eaten by the poor, whereas all ate rock samphire. This variety can be found along coastal cliffs and is more difficult to track down because of its growing locations. Additionally, it looks different from marsh samphire. Rock samphire has glossy, thick leaves and small greenish-white flowers. It is commonly found in Ireland, the United Kingdom, and the Isle of Man. 

Where to Find Samphire 

Now that you know what this marine vegetable is, let's learn about where it grows and where you can purchase it.

Geography 

Marsh samphire is the most widely distributed species of samphire. It can be found across the UK and Ireland. Additionally, it grows along various beaches and marshlands in North America. It is versatile because it can grow at all levels of sandy or muddy salt marshes and in various marine sediments. In North America, this species of samphire can be found along both coasts. 

Rock samphire grows along coastlines in Europe from the Black Sea to the South of Great Britain. It is much harder to locate and cultivate than marsh samphire, making it a much more niche market plant. Additionally, it mostly exists on coastal cliffs and rock outcrops along the sea.

For Purchase 

If you want to add samphire to your cooking dishes, you will have a much easier time finding marsh samphire in your local grocery store. You can typically find marsh samphire year-round in certain grocery stores or purchase it online. However, it is considered in season between May and August and can most likely be found near the fish section of the grocery store. If you have difficulty finding fresh samphire, you can purchase the seeds of either species and grow them yourself. Be sure to look into proper care for your samphire before purchasing to ensure you have the right tools and environment to grow it. 

Another thing to note is if fresh samphire is your goal, then you will most likely only find marsh samphire. Rock samphire is difficult to find fresh and typically has an unpleasant smell that makes many people avoid using it while fresh. 

Samphire in the Kitchen 

Now that you understand where to find your sea asparagus let's discover how to incorporate it into your kitchen.

Selecting and Preparing 

While these two may share the name of samphire, they have few similarities besides their name and succulent nature. Besides the differences between their appearance and growing locations, they also differ in flavor. The marsh samphire is all salt with some crunch, whereas the rock samphire has the same salty flavor and crunch but with an additional aromatic flavor. The flavor of rock samphire resembles that of a carrot-parsley combination. 

When preparing to cook your marine vegetable you want to ensure you got a good batch. If you use fresh samphire in your dish, ensure it is vibrant, green, and crisp. Those are the indicators of fresh samphire; if it appears limp or dull, then it is old. Also, you want to thoroughly wash your samphire before cooking it. Given that it often grows on coastlines and in marshes, it often has lots of sand and dirt on it that you do not want to get into your meals. 

Next, cut off or remove any stems and roots from the plant as they are not good to consume. If you have any large pieces of your samphire, be sure to cut or break them into smaller pieces. This will help ensure that your marine vegetable will cook properly and evenly throughout. 

Cooking Your Samphire 

The most common methods for cooking samphire are blanching, steaming, and frying in a batter. If you choose to blanch, do not add salt to the water mixture because the samphire is salty enough on its own. While the saltiness of this plant usually makes it a great pairing for seafood, it can be paired with other dishes as well.

Storing

Once you are finished cooking your samphire, you want to store it properly so that it will keep as long as possible. There are two ways to store your samphire properly: refrigeration and freezing. If you purchase your fresh samphire and don’t want to use it immediately, you can store it in the fridge. To store it in the fridge, wrap it loosely with a damp paper towel and store it in a plastic bag. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to five days. 

Alternatively, you can freeze samphire if you want it to stay fresh longer. To freeze it, blanch the samphire first, then shock it in ice water. Drain it completely and freeze in an airtight bag or container. Storing it this way will allow it to keep for up to six months 

Samphire Recipes 

There are several ways to add samphire to your cooking repertoire. Here are three easy ways to incorporate it at your next family dinner. 

Stand Alone Side Dish 

Marsh samphire has a unique flavor to it that is best enjoyed when it is minimally cooked. You can serve marsh samphire on its own as a side dish to any meal. Although, due to its salty flavor, many people typically serve it alongside fish and seafood. To prepare this dish, you simply blanch the samphire in boiling water for about three minutes. Afterward, drain it and add butter (be sure it is unsalted), olive oil, black pepper, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Top it with fresh herbs of your choosing and serve. 

Samphire Linguine

For this dish, you will need linguine, lemon, samphire, shrimp, fresh herbs, butter, minced garlic, and heavy cream. Cook the linguine and drain it. Then place the pasta back into the pot and add 2 tbsp of butter and ¼ cup of heavy cream. Also, add your minced garlic and half of your fresh chopped herbs. Mix well.

 In a separate pan, cook your shrimp with some olive oil and seasoning of your choice. While your shrimp are cooking, wash, trim, and blanch your samphire. Once both your shrimp and samphire are finished, add them to the pot with the pasta. Squeeze your fresh lemon juice on top and serve. 

Samphire Salad 

Samphire is also a delicious addition to a salad. Blanch them, as we did in the previous recipes, and add them to a salad. You can add them to a vegetable salad, such as one with asparagus, beans, and shallots. Or you could add them to a lighter salad, such as one with tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, red onion, and balsamic vinegar. Any salad will do; create a salad to your preference and add blanched samphire to it for an additional, delicious flavor punch. 

Health Benefits of Samphire 

Besides being a unique and delicious addition to your cuisine, samphire offers great nutritional benefits. This low-calorie food is a great source of protein, Vitamin A, iron, and calcium. There has also been scientific evidence proving its effectiveness in improving immune function and reducing inflammation. Also, marsh samphire is high in Vitamin C and carotenoids. Those carotenoids have strong cancer-fighting properties by inhibiting tumor growth. 

Samphire is also a natural source of dietary fiber and can help the digestive system by bulking up stool and reducing inflammation in the gut. Additionally, it is a rich source of calcium, which can help improve overall bone health. It can even help regulate sleep due to the levels of magnesium it contains. Rock samphire, in particular, has also been shown to have amazing effects on skin health and skin care.

With all of these benefits and the crunchy, delicious flavors that it adds to dishes, it is no wonder that it is becoming an increasingly popular food item.

Your Samphire Checklist 

Here are some quick things to remember about Samphire.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Is samphire a seaweed?

While samphire does grow around the sea, on shorelines and beaches, it is not seaweed. Samphire is a succulent plant that resembles a mini cactus. Seaweed is a type of algae that grows in the ocean.

Is samphire related to asparagus? 

Despite the name “sea asparagus” and marsh samphire's similar appearance to the well-known vegetable, asparagus and samphire are not related.

Is samphire available in the U.S.? 

In North America, marsh samphire grows along both coasts. You can find fresh samphire in certain grocery stores or markets. Also, you can order it online.

Can you eat samphire raw? 

If washed thoroughly, samphire can be eaten raw and sometimes used raw in salads. However, it has a very salty flavor, and most people prefer to eat it cooked. Additionally, it is recommended that rock samphire is always cooked before consumption.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©Alan Mather/Shutterstock.com.

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Have you tried all the popular root vegetables, using the same boring recipes? Parsnips? Tried it! Carrots? Been there! What if there was a less common root vegetable that packed a powerful flavor and just as powerful healing benefits? Well, there is! Introducing salsify, a root vegetable that you didn't know you needed in your life. In this article, we will answer the question: what is salsify? We will also discuss how you cook it, its health benefits, and so much more.

What is Salsify?

Salsify is a root vegetable that belongs to the dandelion family. Some people describe it as a cross between a parsnip and a dandelion root because its physical appearance resembles a mix of the two. When it comes to appearance, there are two main types. There are what people refer to as “true” salsify and “false” salsify. True salsify (Tragopogon porrifolius) is also called purple salsify, white salsify, or oyster plant. It has a white root and purple flowers. False salsify (Scorzonera hispanica) is also called black salsify or Spanish salsify and has a black root with yellow flowers. 

While the two varieties differ in appearance, both belong to the Asteraceae family, and both are used in primarily the same way. When it comes to flavor, this vegetable has a mild and mineral-like flavor. It coins the name the oyster plant because some people suggest that the flavor of the mature root reminds them of oysters. However, when it is young, the root and stalk resemble asparagus in flavor. 

Where to Find Salsify 

Geography 

Black salsify is most common in Belgium, France, Germany, and the Netherlands. Purple or “true” salsify is native to southeast Europe and North Africa but can also be found in North America. Another type that can be found in North America is Western salsify (Tragopogon dubius). This variety is also known as yellow salsify. Although it is also native to Eurasia, it was brought over by early settlers to North America as a food source. According to Montana State University, “It has been reported in every state except Alabama, Florida, Mississippi, and South Carolina.” 

Although multiple species of salsify exist across America, and the roots of all species are edible, “true” salsify is the most commonly collected and used for consumption. It is widespread across America and can be found along roadsides. Additionally, it can be found in fields, orchards, or vineyards. You can find the common variety growing in almost every state in America. 

For Purchase 

If you want to purchase this vegetable, you can find seeds in local garden centers. If you want to purchase it fresh, it may be a little harder. Salsify is a hard vegetable to harvest, so it is not always readily available. However, you can use programs like Instacart to get it delivered to you. Additionally, it can be available with other online retailers and certain grocery stores or markets.  You can expect to pay, on average, between $15 and $20 dollars for a pound of this vegetable.

How to Cook and Store Salisfy 

Salsify is a great vegetable to have in your kitchen. It is better for you than some other root vegetables. According to the Farmers Almanac, this root vegetable has actually earned the superfood status. This is due to its high levels of “iron, vitamin C, thiamin, calcium, and phosphorous.”  

Black and white varieties have different flavors. Black has more of an oyster taste to it, which is why many people tend to use it in soups and chowders. White, however, more closely resembles the flavor of asparagus or artichoke hearts. 

Cooking and Preparing 

The first step in preparing your salsify for cooking is to wash it thoroughly. Being a root vegetable, it is often covered in dirt and soil. Wash it under cold water and scrub off any debris and dirt. People debate on whether or not to peel it before cooking. Many people argue that you should cook it before peeling it. This is because it can lose some of the flavor, and it turns brown after peeling.

Depending on your cooking method, you can rub the peel or skin of the salsify off after it is cooked.  However, others prefer to peel the root before cooking to avoid any lingering dirt or debris. If you peel prior to cooking, put the peeled roots into a bowl of cold water and lemon to prevent them from turning brown.  Additionally, you want to trim off the ends. 

Boiling is a common cooking method for salsify. After following the steps above, you could boil your salsify and then add the butter and seasoning of your choice. However, like other root vegetables, you can also bake, sauté, roast, or braise it as well.

Cooking Guidelines

Below are general guidelines for the different methods of cooking salsify. 

Storing

Salsify is a vegetable that is best eaten fresh. If you purchase it and don’t plan on consuming it right away, then you can place it unwashed in a plastic bag and store it in the fridge. Additionally, your roots should be kept in a place with high humidity to keep them from shriveling. When you store this vegetable correctly, it should last for about a week in the fridge. Even if it does shrivel slightly, it is still safe for you to consume. 

Recipes Ideas

Salsify is very versatile. It is great for soups and stews, and it can even be mashed like a potato. Although the foliage of the plant is edible when the plant is young, as well as the stalk, the root is what most people focus on when cooking it for their recipes. Below are some ideas of recipes that you can make with this root vegetable. 

Roasted Salsify

Salsify goes great with potatoes, celery, and onion. Try creating a roasted salsify and vegetable combination. Wash and peel your potatoes and salsify, then chop them into small pieces. Next, wash and chop your celery and onion. Add two tablespoons of butter or oil of your choice to the pan over medium-high heat. Once it is heated, add in your vegetables along with some salt, crushed peppercorns, and any additional seasoning of your choice. 

Salsify Salad 

Additionally, salsify goes great in salads. You can choose to roast it and add it to any leafy green salad of your choosing, but another great choice is to add it to a bulgur salad. Cook your bulgur, or you can substitute rice, farro, quinoa, or a grain of your choice. Clean, peel, and chop your salsify. Roast them in the pan with the oil and seasoning of your choice. Add garlic and a diced shallot. Once both are done, mix the salsify mixture with the bulgur and add golden raisins, basil, and pecans. Mix all together and dress to your preference. 

Health Benefits

Not only is this root vegetable delicious, but it is also nutritious. Salsify is high in inulin. Inulin is a type of dietary fiber that has been linked to many health benefits. Some of those benefits include controlling diabetes, improving digestive health, and benefiting overall gut health. Another thing that salsify is rich in is iron. Iron helps promote healthy hair growth, so regularly consuming this root vegetable can help promote better hair growth. 

Additionally, its mixture of potassium, calcium, and sodium allows it to help control blood pressure levels. It also has a blend of essential vitamins and minerals that help it to bolster your immune system. It is a great vegetable to have in the kitchen to keep both your tastebuds and your body happy. 

Your Salsify Checklist 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Can you eat salsify raw? 

While the young roots can be eaten raw if sliced thinly enough, most people choose to cook their salsify before consuming. You can put raw salsify on a salad, but it is more common to boil, steam, or bake the roots.

What does salsify taste like? 

Black salsify has more of an oyster taste to it, which is why many people tend to use it in soups and chowders. White salsify, however, more closely resembles the flavor of asparagus or artichoke hearts. 

Does salsify need to be peeled? 

People debate on whether or not to peel your salsify before cooking. Many people argue that you should cook your salsify before peeling it. This is because it can lose some of the flavor, and it turns brown after peeling. However, other people like to peel it first to ensure that they get rid of as much soil and dirt as possible. It is up to personal preference and what makes sense for the recipe. For example, if you are boiling it, leaving the skin on makes little difference. However, if you sauté it in a pan with other vegetables, you may want to peel it before cooking.

What can I use as a substitute for salsify? 

If you are having trouble finding this vegetable or simply do not enjoy it, you can substitute it with an artichoke heart, asparagus, carrot, parsnips, or turnips.

Up Next:

• What is Chayote Squash? How to Cook, Health Benefits, Recipes & More
• What is Samphire? How to Cook, Taste, Health Benefits & Recipes

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One of the most stressful things that parents need to do with their children, is potty training. Questions like, “Should she still be having accidents?” “Is he too old not to be using the potty?” and “Am I doing something wrong?” constantly enter their minds. However, this doesn't have to be a stressful time! Potty training is not always a linear process, so enter it knowing that there will be moments of triumph and moments of regression. You can also rest assured that there is no set timeframe or standard that you or your child must meet. Each child is unique in their timelines and progress in the potty training world. In this article, we hope to give you the answer to all your questions as well as tips, tricks, and a free potty training chart so you can track your child's progress with this milestone.

Free Potty Training Chart

Benefits of Using a Potty Training Chart

• Boosts self-esteem: Having this chart as a sign of positive reinforcement when they do a desired task is a great way to increase your child's sense of self-esteem. With this boost in self-confidence, your child will want to use their potty and their potty training chart again and again.
• Tracks Progress: It is easy to get discouraged if you can't see how far you have progressed. Tracking your child's progress is beneficial for both you and your child. It allows your child to see every time they did something right and it allows you to track patterns in their behavior.
• Positive Reinforcement: Having this interactive chart positively highlights their accomplishments and helps them associate using the potty with those positive feelings. This will make them more likely to want to and enjoy using their potty.

When Should Your Child Be Potty Trained?

As soon as they clean their first diaper, many parents begin to wonder when their child will be potty trained. While you may wish for it as soon as possible, this milestone does not happen at the same speed for every child. Additionally, your child may show signs of wanting to be potty trained, but may not succeed for some time. So the exact age of when your child should be potty trained varies from child to child. The Mayo Clinic discusses how potty training is dependent on physical, developmental, and behavioral milestones more than age.

Although exact timing does vary, the average child will be potty trained between 12 and 30 months of age. While there will be the occasional early birds or late bloomers, the average age range is between 1 and 2.5 years old. If your child does take longer to potty train, have no fear. Some kids take until their fourth birthday to be successfully potty trained. It is better to allow them to show interest on their own. If you try to start potty training too early, it may take longer to train your child successfully.

When Should I Be Concerned? 

While late bloomers with potty training is completely normal, and not a cause for concern, here are some signs to look out for that could be indicative of a larger problem.

• Your child cannot tell when they need to use the restroom by four years old. 
• They reach the age of three or three and a half and have no interest in using the toilet. 
• Your child suddenly experiences a severe regression in their potty training progress.

Signs That Your Child Is Ready to Potty Train 

You won’t need to guess when the right time to potty train your child is. Oftentimes, your child will give you signals or signs that they are ready to begin potty training. Some signs are more noticeable than others, so be sure to be on the lookout for one or more of these signs below. 

• Your child can maintain a dry diaper for longer periods than before. (Think at least two hours for this measurement). 
• They begin to pull off their wet or dirty diaper rather than stay in it. 
• Your child will begin to wake up dry from naps more often. 
• They begin to show an interest in using the toilet or in wearing “real” underwear. 
• Your child makes a point to tell you or demonstrates when they need to use the restroom. 
• They can easily take down and pull up their pants by themselves. 

If you begin to see these signs it can be an indication that your child is ready to begin potty training. Be sure before you potty train that your child can do the following:

• Walk properly, to make it to and from the toilet. 
• Be able to identify when they need to use the restroom and alert you to their need. 
• Control the muscles needed to sit down on and use the toilet. 

How to Potty Train Your Child 

Now that you know your child is ready, here comes the hard part. Potty training them. Potty training is not a one-size-fits-all practice and it can take some time to accomplish. With that said, this section aims to arm you with the knowledge and tips necessary to make potty training as simple as possible for you and your child. 

Preparing Your Child

An early task that you can do to prepare for this milestone is to go shopping with your child. Pampers suggests that bringing your child with you and allowing them to be a part of selecting their own potty makes them feel more excited about using it. Also, buying your child “big-kid” underwear can make them equally as excited. Try to purchase pairs that have things they love on them, that can make it more exciting and reward-like to put them on. 

Preparing The Potty 

Be sure to choose an easily accessible spot for the potty. It is best to keep it in the bathroom to help your child make the connection that going potty happens in the bathroom. Another potential location for your child’s potty is in their bedroom so that it is easily accessible to them. After you have the location selected, you need to create a schedule for the potty. You can encourage bathroom use after a meal or a nap. This helps demonstrate to your child that going to the bathroom is a routine thing. 

Rewarding The Action

Once you successfully get your child to use the potty it is important to praise them. You can give verbal praise to your child, or things such as a hug or high-five. Additionally, it is a great idea to implement a potty training chart. Using a potty training chart is a great way to track your child’s progress and allows them to feel great about their accomplishments. Make it an interactive chart by allowing them to place a sticker on each category after they successfully accomplish that task. Making it fun and interactive will make it more enjoyable, and will result in your child having a better attitude towards it. 

The Do's and Don’ts of Potty Training

Below is a quick snapshot of some of the do's and don’ts of potty training. You can use it at a glance when you need a reminder of the process. 

How to Make Potty Training Fun 

To make potty training as successful as possible you should do your best to make it enjoyable. There are many methods to making potty training fun. You can use the potty training chart, an interactive way to show your child how much progress they are making or use a potty song or a potty dance that makes a fun celebration out of the routine. You can have a reward system, where if your child goes so many times on the potty they earn a reward. The possibilities are endless! There are even programs like Big Kid Academy to help you along the way! 

The image featured at the top of this post is ©Mari.Toch/Shutterstock.com.

The post Use This Potty Training Chart To See Your Child’s Progress in This Milestone appeared first on Moms Who Think.

People have long considered IQ rates as the determining factor for intelligence. However, with all of the online quizzes and forums these days, it can be difficult to get an accurate representation. What does IQ stand for? What does your score mean about you and your intelligence? We will discuss all of that and more in this article, as well as provide you with a free IQ chart to help you see where your number falls on the average scale.

What Is IQ?

We hear these two letters thrown around all the time but what do they mean? Many people have an understanding that having a high IQ is a good thing and that it supposedly means that you are smart, but what does it mean? Let's start with the basics, what does IQ stand for? IQ stands for intelligence quotient. More simply put, it is a measure of someone's reasoning ability. Experts believe that a person's IQ accurately showcases how an individual would use information and logic to solve problems, answer questions, or make predictions in given situations. Furthermore, your IQ score indicates where you fall in terms of mental ability amongst other people.

How Is IQ Measured?

A person's IQ is measured by taking an IQ test. These tests are usually taken when parents want to discover their children's IQ regarding school performance. Additionally, adults may take an IQ test to help them determine job suitability or to gain assistance with career guidance. These tests measure how well an individual can solve problems, and recall information, as well as their short and long-term memory. Additionally, here are some other things that an IQ test will measure:

• Logic
• Spatial Awareness
• Verbal Reasoning
• Visual Abilities
• Recognize Patterns
• Make Connections

How Do I Read an IQ Chart or Results?

While there may be some differences based on the place of administration, there are a few terms that should remain constant regardless of where you get your test done. The first term is the Bell Curve. The Bell Curve is how IQ scores are measured. This curve shows the normal distribution of whatever is being measured, as well as the outliers on either side. In regards to IQ, the peak of the curve is typically where the majority of people will land. One side of the slow represents those who fall in the below-average section, while the other side of the slope showcases those who score in the above-average range.

Mean refers to the average score, which is calculated by adding all the scores together and dividing by the total number of scores. Finally, there is the standard deviation. This is a measure of variability in the population. For example, if you have a low standard deviation, that means most of the data is close to the same value.

IQ Chart Rankings

The average score on an IQ is 100, with the majority of people falling between 85 and 115. Below is the ranking of an IQ test and their associated meanings.

• 1 to 24: Profound mental disability
• 25 to 39: Severe mental disability
• 40 to 54: Moderate mental disability
• 55 to 69: Mild mental disability
• 70 to 84: Borderline mental disability
• 85 to 114: Average intelligence
• 115 to 129: Above average or bright
• 130 to 144: Moderately gifted
• 145 to 159: Highly gifted
• 160 to 179: Exceptionally gifted
• 180 and up: Profoundly gifted

Free IQ Chart

Below is a free IQ chart that you can use to see where your or your child's score falls on the scale.

Are IQ Tests Accurate?

Many people fret over the results of their or their child's IQ test. One thing to keep in mind is that the results measure a person's potential. Also, test results can be influenced by various factors such as how a person is feeling that day. If your child is very stressed, didn't sleep well, or didn't have a proper breakfast, all of that can impact their test scores. However, with that being said, if a test result comes back and it is dramatically different than what was expected a psychologist could help you understand the reasoning behind it.

Another thing to keep in mind when regarding accuracy is the source of the test. If you found an IQ test online, those are not necessarily reliable sources. To have a fairly accurate IQ test, you would want to have it administered by a psychologist.

When Do Children Receive Their First IQ Test?

A sometimes common misconception is that standardized testing given in schools is the same thing as an IQ test. Standardized tests and IQ tests are different tests that measure different things. IQ tests measure someone's potential and ability to problem solve, as well as additional things that may or may not be explicitly taught. Alternatively, standardized tests focus on specific skills that were taught in school such as mathematics, reading comprehension, and some verbal skills.

Most children receive an IQ test because of their performance in school. If your child is showing signs of falling behind dramatically in school, an IQ test may help determine why. Additionally, if your child is excelling at a seemingly rapid pace, an IQ test can help determine if your child has above-average intelligence and if they should be moved to a higher-level class.

When Should I Be Worried About IQ As A Parent?

As a parent, you have plenty of worries on your plate already. IQ is not something you should be worried about unless you see your child showing dramatic signs of being behind developmentally or academically where they should be. Also, schools will often help monitor your child's progress and can suggest when the best time to test or if a test is necessary at all.

Experts argue over when the best time to test your child is, although most agree that you shouldn't worry before the age of six. Children grow and change so rapidly when they are young. Therefore, testing your child at too young of an age may yield unreliable results. Many people opt to wait until their child is eight or older before administering an IQ test.

What To Do If Your Child's IQ Test Scores Are Low

If your child takes an IQ test and scores lower than you would like the first step is not to panic. One thing that you should do is continue to work with your child at home, to help boost their confidence and improve their skills. Read with them to help improve verbal and linguistic intelligence. Also, give them tools to help improve their spatial intelligence such as puzzles or blocks. Furthermore, practice math and physical exercises, and most of all believe in your child. Additionally, you could ask a psychologist or members of your child's school staff for additional support and guidance on how to best assist your child.

Is IQ Fixed or Fluid?

Scientists have always argued that IQ is fixed. It is something in our DNA and it is unchangeable. However, new research is beginning to combat that theory. This new research suggests that certain aspects of our intelligence are controlled by our working memory. Working memory is a skill that can be exercised and improved. Therefore, these findings suggest that our IQs can be improved. It is now thought that certain aspects of our IQ are considered fluid, or changeable.

Should I Tell My Child About Their IQ?

There is a lot of debate around the topic of telling your child their IQ scores. Many people are against it as it can be seen as you labeling a child's potential and telling them what they are and are not capable of. However, if you phrase it in a different light, it may not be such a terrifying topic. It is not what you tell them but how. If you ensure that you tell them that their IQ score is just a measure of their potential and that every skill can be improved then this test no longer has the end all be all power that it once held. Now, it is just an indicator that can be watched and adjusted, just like any other grade or test.

Ultimately how, when, and if you want to tell your child about their IQ score is entirely up to you. Just be sure to go about it with sensitivity and remind them that our brains are amazing and are constantly changing.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©MIA Studio/Shutterstock.com.

The post Use This IQ Chart To See Where Your Child’s IQ Falls appeared first on Moms Who Think.

Pregnancy is an exciting time when new changes are happening as a woman progresses closer and closer to the day of finally meeting her new baby. Altered hormones, new cravings, and increased appetite are all changes that women experience. Additionally, there are now a myriad of foods that are suddenly on her do-not-eat list. With ever-changing opinions in the medical field on what foods are deemed safe for pregnant women, it can be difficult to keep up. In this article, we will be specifically focusing on many peoples' favorite food, sushi. We will answer the question that so many pregnant women want to know — can you eat sushi when pregnant?

What is Sushi?

Before discussing if you can eat it when pregnant, we should be sure to clarify what sushi is. When people hear the word sushi, they now typically think of raw fish and rice. Sushi is a Japanese dish prepared with vinegared rice and various other ingredients. Sometimes those ingredients include raw fish, but other times they are cooked. The most important ingredient in sushi is the rice. Rice is always present in sushi, whereas the meat and vegetables can change.

Can You Eat Sushi When Pregnant?

Now, the answer to the question you have all been waiting for. Can you eat sushi when pregnant? The answer is, it depends. Most times, you will hear the advice to avoid sushi while you are pregnant. That is because of the risk of exposure to bacteria and higher levels of mercury. There is a bacteria called Listeria monocytogenes that can be found in raw seafood, as well as other food items. This bacteria can lead to an infection called Listeriosis. Pregnant women are much more susceptible to this infection, and it should be avoided as it can lead to complications with the pregnancy and your baby.

Additionally, high levels of mercury should also be avoided. High levels of mercury can increase the chance of birth defects. These are the two main reasons that the majority of experts will advise against eating sushi. However, they are using sushi as an encompassing term, when in reality it is just raw fish and fish that are high in mercury that should be avoided. Not all sushi is uncooked, and certain fish provide beneficial nutrients that help with the growth and development of the baby.

Is There a Safe Type of Sushi to Eat While Pregnant?

Pregnant women can enjoy sushi that contains cooked fish that are low on the mercury list. The NRDC has compiled a list of the fish and seafood commonly used in sushi and has shown where they fall on the mercury level ratings. Those who score high should be avoided, while those who score low can be enjoyed in moderation. Some of the fish and seafood that can be enjoyed in moderation are:

• Anago (conger eel)
• Ebi (shrimp)
• Hatahata (sandfish)
• Kani (crab)
• Masu (trout)
• Sake (salmon)
• Tako (octopus)

Great Sushi Substitutes

Oftentimes, if you are craving sushi it is not usually the raw fish that you are craving. It is either the sushi rice or some variation of the sauces, such as spicy mayo, wasabi, or soy sauce. You can curb the cravings by making your sushi at home! My fiance and I love sushi and we had a sushi-making kit. However, we didn't have access to raw fish that we trusted. We cooked chicken and beef and rolled those cooked meats into our sushi roll instead and it was delicious!

Additionally, you can create sushi bowls that are safe and healthy. You can use plain rice, add veggies of your choosing, throw in some cooked shrimp or meat of your choosing, and top with sesame seeds, soy sauce, and some spicy mayo. Now you have yourself a similar flavor without the risks!

Other Foods to Avoid During Pregnancy

Some foods may seem like common sense to avoid during pregnancy, while others may surprise you. The American Pregnancy Association has placed these foods, and others, on the avoid list when pregnant.

• Raw meat — from fear of various bacteria, one of which is salmonella.
• Deli meat — has been known to be contaminated with bacteria that cause listeria.
• Raw eggs — because of the risk of salmonella.
• Unpasteurized milk — also the fear of causing listeria.
• Unwashed vegetables — vegetables that are unwashed or not properly washed can lead to toxoplasmosis.
• Raw sprouts — contain higher levels of bacteria.

Recipe Card

Once you're ready to add that delicious Asian dish to your diet, why not be adventurous and try making it at home with one of our Sushi recipes? Enjoy!

Sushi Recipe

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• Author: MomsWhoThink.com

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Ingredients

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For the Sushi Rice:

• 1 cup sushi rice
• 2 cups water
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt

For the Sushi Filling (Choose one or more):

• Sushi-grade raw fish (such as tuna or salmon), thinly sliced
• Cooked and seasoned shrimp
• Avocado, thinly sliced
• Cucumber, thinly sliced into matchsticks
• Carrot, thinly sliced into matchsticks
• Cream cheese, thinly sliced (for a Philadelphia roll)
• Seaweed (Nori) sheets
• Soy sauce, pickled ginger, and wasabi for serving

Equipment:

• Bamboo sushi rolling mat (Makisu)
• Plastic wrap or a plastic food storage bag

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Sushi Rice:

• Rinse the sushi rice under cold running water until the water runs clear.
• Combine the rinsed rice and water in a saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed.
• In a small saucepan, heat the rice vinegar, sugar, and salt over low heat until the sugar and salt dissolve. Remove from heat.
• Transfer the cooked rice to a large bowl and while it's still hot, add the seasoned rice vinegar. Gently mix and fan the rice to cool it down while maintaining a glossy appearance. Cover with a damp cloth to keep it moist.

2. Prepare the Sushi Fillings:

• Slice your chosen fillings into thin strips or pieces, ensuring they are long enough to fit across the width of your seaweed sheets.

3. Assemble the Sushi:

• Lay a bamboo sushi rolling mat on a clean surface and cover it with plastic wrap or a plastic food storage bag to prevent sticking.
• Place a sheet of seaweed (Nori) on top of the plastic wrap with the rough side facing up.

4. Add Sushi Rice:

• Wet your hands with water to prevent the rice from sticking. Take a handful of sushi rice (about the size of a small apple) and spread it evenly over the seaweed, leaving about half an inch of seaweed on one edge.

5. Add Fillings:

• Place your chosen fillings on top of the rice, near the center of the seaweed sheet.

6. Roll the Sushi:

• Using the bamboo mat, carefully lift the edge of the seaweed closest to you and fold it over the fillings, tucking it tightly.
• Continue rolling away from you while applying gentle pressure to create a cylindrical sushi roll.
• Wet the exposed edge of the seaweed with a bit of water to seal the roll.

7. Slice and Serve:

• Use a sharp, wet knife to slice the sushi roll into bite-sized pieces. Dip the knife in water between cuts to prevent sticking.
• Serve your homemade sushi with soy sauce, pickled ginger, and wasabi.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©Reshetnikov_art/Shutterstock.com.

The post Can You Eat Sushi When Pregnant? appeared first on Moms Who Think.

The English bulldog is the fifth-most popular purebred dog breed and is a sought-after choice for a family pet. This working dog-turned-lapdog is great for cuddles and love. Although they have low energy levels, they are a symbol of determination, strength, and courage and are even used as the symbol for the Marine Corps. With all that cuteness and cuddly nature, you may consider owning an English bulldog, but what if you have little ones at home? This article will answer whether English bulldogs are good with kids and will address everything you should know before adding an English bulldog to your home.

About the Breed

Before purchasing an English bulldog, you should learn a bit about the breed, what they were bred for, and how big they will get. All these factors may influence your decision about adding this furry friend to your home.

Size and Physical Appearance 

While not the largest of breeds, English bulldogs can still weigh a fair amount. Both males and females only reach heights of between 12-16 inches tall, but their weight varies from 49 to 55 pounds when they are fully grown. Their weight doesn’t stop them from crawling into your lap for a cuddle either. The English bulldog comes in a variety of colors as well, ranging from fawn to white to red brindle. Also, they can be a variety of mixes of the colors. In addition, they have various markings such as black mask, white markings, or brindle to name a few. Some distinguishing traits that make this dog easy to recognize are the loose skin of its head, pushed-in nose, and undershot jaw, which leaves hanging chops on either side of it. 

English Bulldog Personality Traits 

A great asset of the English bulldog is their calm temperament. Despite their intimidating physical features, they have a very gentle nature and are highly affectionate. This breed craves attention from its humans and thrives when it is given. The calm nature of the English bulldog makes them seem like a great choice with kids. However, one thing to be wary of is that they can attempt to become dominant in the household. This behavior should be addressed and trained out when your English bulldog is a puppy. 

How Much Energy Do English Bulldogs Have? 

If you are looking for a rambunctious dog that will go on three walks a day and run around in the backyard with your kids for hours, this is not the dog for you. English bulldogs have a low energy level. However, even with this low energy level, it is recommended that they exercise 15-30 minutes a day to help prevent obesity and maintain overall health. 

Training Your English Bulldog 

The key to training your English Bulldog is to start early. While English bulldogs are great with kids, they must be shown early on that they are not alpha. When your dog is young, establish yourself and your family as pack leaders. While this breed may be slower to pick up on commands, be patient. With your patience and socialization with other animals and humans, your pet will have a wonderful temperament and should not display aggressive behaviors. 

Additionally, while your dog may take a bit longer to train and they may be weighing what is in it for them,  they have a high desire to please you. So, in the end, all of that training should pay off. Some tips for training your English bulldog are: 

• Keep the training sessions short and fun, with lots of positive reinforcement. 
• Only focus on basic commands and not fancy tricks. 
• Have patience! This breed can be stubborn, and it will take a few times for them to get it right. 

How Old Should Your Child Be When You Get an English Bulldog? 

English bulldogs are a favorite among families with children. They love children and usually exhibit patience and a gentle nature with them. Additionally, English bulldogs tend to be even better companions for children than traditional bulldogs. When it comes to the specific age that your child should be before owning an English bulldog, it comes down to preference and preparedness. It is always best to exercise caution when very young children are around dogs. If you have the dog first, or if you know that your dog will be around small children, ensuring that they are properly trained before interacting with the children is extremely beneficial. 

Additionally, baby gates can be used to separate the dog and your children if need be. One other thing to keep in mind, the older your child is the more they can help care for the dog and the chores that come with owning one. 

Are Allergies an Issue With English Bulldogs? 

Although the temperament of the English bulldog makes them good with kids, how do they fair with a family with allergies? While this breed does not shed a lot, it does still shed throughout the year. For those who suffer from severe allergies to dogs, the English bulldog may still cause them some discomfort. Additionally, the English bulldog is known to drool. Drool from the dog can also cause problems for those who suffer from allergies. So, while they may not rank highest on the allergy list, they could still definitely cause some irritation if someone in your house does have an allergy. 

General Tips For Owning an English Bulldog 

Here are some general tips for owning an English bulldog that you should consider before adding one to your home. 

Health 

English bulldogs are subject to certain health conditions. Due to their skin folds, they can contract skin disorders such as atopic dermatitis. They also tend to suffer from eye issues such as cherry eye, which is where the red tissue of the tear gland pokes out through the eye socket. Those along with respiratory system disorders, tendon and ligament disorders, and ear disorders are all things to be aware of when purchasing an English bulldog. 

Also, don’t let your bulldog become overheated. Their short snout can cause labored breathing in hot or humid weather, so you want to prevent them from overheating. If your bulldog gets too excited and begins to breathe too hard, its tongue will have a bluish tint; if this happens, cool your dog by giving it cool water and ice. Additionally, the American Kennel Club recommends having your English bulldog tested for the following:

• Patella Evaluation 
• Tracheal Hypoplasia Radiographic Evaluation 
• Cardiac Exam 

Grooming 

The English bulldog requires a little more effort when it comes to grooming. They don’t shed much, so a weekly brushing with a bristle brush will suffice. However, something else that you need to clean is the inside of their wrinkles. English bulldogs have a lot of wrinkles or folds in their skin; those folds can get dirty when not maintained. Take a wet cloth and wipe the areas down; be sure to dry properly. This should be done daily. 

Exercise 

While gentle exercise for this breed is important to help mitigate the obesity they are prone to; your English bulldog will not be begging you to go on walks or play fetch all of the time. The English bulldog would much rather lounge around inside than go out and play. A quick walk around the block or 15 minutes of play daily is plenty of activity for this breed. Their medium size and gentle temperament make them a great dog for your child to walk as well. This will teach your child the responsibility of caring for a pet and getting your pet the exercise that it needs. Also, be sure to avoid exercising your bulldog in the summer afternoons. Their short snout can cause breathing to be difficult in hot or humid weather.

Diet 

Your English bulldog has some girth to it, requiring between 1.5 and two cups of high-quality dog food a day. However, ensure that you only leave the food down during meal times. This breed is subject to obesity, so you don’t want to give them the option of grazing all day. The exact amount of food depends on your dog's size and activity level. More active pups will require more food. For suggestions on high-quality dog food, you can always check with your local veterinarian. 

Pros and Cons of Owning an English Bulldog 

While English bulldogs have shown that their temperament makes them good with kids, here are additional pros and cons to consider before adding one to your home.

The Verdict 

In the end, it is clear to see that the English bulldog is a great family pet and is an excellent dog with kids. Their docile nature, calm temperament, and willingness to please their humans are all traits that make them a wonderful family dog. Adding this breed to your home will make it full of love and joy; just be sure to properly train your bulldog and ensure that you follow all of the care guidelines to provide them with the best quality of life. Also, if introducing a new dog to your home, be sure to discuss with your children how to interact with the animal respectfully. Once you do all of that, have fun adding your new furry friend to the family. 

The image featured at the top of this post is ©WilleeCole Photography/Shutterstock.com.

The post Are English Bulldogs Good With Kids? appeared first on Moms Who Think.

There are thousands of different foods and many different cuisines, making it hard to stay on top of all of them. With ever-changing health trends, new and upcoming recipes, and exotic foods, it is impossible to remember it all. There are common food items such as spinach, potatoes, and rice. Then less heard of items like chayote, samphire, and salsify, but all can be found in and around kitchens. There are also food items that are popular in other countries that make their way over to the United States. One such food is balut. This article will uncover what is balut, its history, how to cook it, and more on this unique food.

What is Balut? 

If you hear the term balut and have no idea what it is you are not alone. This street food is common in the Philippines, Cambodia, and Vietnam and is loved by many. Balut is a fertilized bird egg, usually a duck, that has been incubated between 14 and 21 days. This Filipino delicacy is the main product of the duck industry in the Philippines. It is also an affordable source of calcium and protein. 

The word balut also comes from the Philippines and it means “wrapped”, or covered inside bags during the incubation process. The main difference between different culture’s versions of balut is the incubation period. In the Phillippines, the balut is usually incubated for 17-18 days. In Vietnam it is between 19-21 days and in Cambodia it is between 18-21 days.

History of Balut  

While increasingly popular in the Phillippines balut does not solely exist there, rather it exists across Asia. It has been discovered that fertilized duck egg consumption began in China. This occurred in an attempt to preserve the egg’s shelf life before there were refrigerators. It is believed that the Chinese brought the practice of making incubated eggs to the Phillippines during the sixteenth century. At the time, Mallard ducks were abundant in the area where they settled. 

This dish went from food storage to a delicacy dish when the supply and demand in the local areas increased. World War II increased the appeal of this dish because balut was a cheap food item that still offered a significant amount of protein. With its gaining popularity, it also gained the term aphrodisiac. While the exact details of how it coined this term are unknown, it is believed that because of its rich source of protein and calcium, it can enhance male and female virility. 

Growing Popularity

With the title of aphrodisiac, being affordable and providing nutrients, it is no wonder that this food is so popular among various communities. Asia is also one of the largest users and producers of duck products. In fact, Asia accounts for 82.6% of the total duck meat produced worldwide. 

Another fascinating piece of history attached to the balut is the legend that comes from the Philippines. According to legend, there were two towns, one big and one small. The larger one burned the smaller one to the ground, destroying it. After the destruction the people were hungry, but all of the food had been destroyed as well. All that was left were incubating duck eggs that had been roasted by the fire as it burned down the village. The people, having no other options, ate these eggs and found that they were delicious. So the legend of balut began. 

Whether or not that legend is true, the popularity of this food item in the Philippines and other countries in Asia cannot be denied. The appeal of balut in Asia has been equated to the appeal of hot dogs in the United States. 

How to Cook Balut 

To cook balut, traditionally eggs are left out in the sun, stored in baskets, or buried in the sand to reach the desired temperature of warmth. It is imperative to keep the eggs at the right temperature for the right time. If it becomes too hot or too cold the embryo will not develop correctly. About halfway through the incubation process, around nine days, the egg is held up to the light to view the embryo and check on the progress of growth.

Once the embryo is developed and ready to be cooked the most popular ways of cooking are boiling or steaming it. The balut is usually boiled between 20 and 30 minutes, or until it is fully cooked. Once it is fully cooked, it is enjoyed by cracking the wide end of the egg, making a hole, and sprinkling in salt. Afterward, you sip the broth, crack the whole egg open, and enjoy the yolk and the tiny chick inside. In the Philippines, the locals prefer an egg that has been incubated for 17 days. This is because it will not have a beak or feathers. In the U.S., balut is usually sold after 16 days of incubation for the same reason. The lack of the beak and feathers can make the meal less threatening or shocking to those who do not see it as a cultural norm.

Is Balut Legal in the U.S.? 

In the U.S. two agencies oversee the distribution and regulation of food products. Those two organizations are the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the US Department of Agriculture (USDA). Their main purpose is to ensure that the food that is approved in America meets their quality standards and is safe for consumption. The majority of the time, if a food item is banned it is because of safety or health-related reasons. However, there are other reasons, such as if an animal is endangered, that it would be deemed illegal to eat them. 

While there are foods that are illegal, or largely banned,  in the United States, such as puffer fish, sea turtle meat, and haggis, balut does not make the list. Because balut eggs are considered an ethnic food, they are exempt from inspection and grading. In the U.S., balut can often be found uncooked in Asian markets or occasionally cooked in Filipino restaurants. 

The image featured at the top of this post is ©Qcon/Shutterstock.com.

The post What is Balut? History, How it’s Cooked & Is It Legal in the U.S.? appeared first on Moms Who Think.

Raising a child can be difficult. You have all sorts of important milestones and training steps that you have to get through. You did sleep training as a baby, potty training as a toddler and now you’re at an entirely different stage….bra training!? There will be a lot of changes and a lot of talks that need to happen, as your child begins to enter the stages of puberty.

You will have the puberty talk, the dating talk, and so much more.  Don’t worry we’ve got you covered! If your child is entering the stage where you think it may be time for them to begin wearing a bra then this article is for you. In it, we will provide tips on when your child should get a bra, how to pick the perfect bra, how to measure bra size, and more. We will even provide a free chart that shows you how to measure bra size at home. Let’s dive in! 

When Will My Child Need a Bra? 

Most girls will start wearing a bra when they hit puberty. On average, girls begin puberty between the ages of 8 and 13, however, there can always be outliers. So if your daughter begins showing signs of puberty slightly before or after the general age range that is fine as well. The average age for a first bra is 11 years old. More importantly than their age, their bodies will begin showing signs of needing a bra. When your daughter begins to develop breast buds, small bumps under the nipple, that is when they are ready for a bra. 

In addition to her body showing that it may be time to look into training bras, there is another sign that shows your daughter might be ready; her expressing interest to you about wearing them. Oftentimes, when girls reach a certain age many of their friends begin wearing bras. Additionally, as girls enter puberty years, many of them become self-conscious about their developing breasts. If any of these situations happen, your child may come to you and express interest in wearing a bra.  

Signs That Your Child May Be Ready for Their First Bra 

There is no perfect time or age to buy your daughter her first bra. Rather look for signs that she is physically and emotionally ready to embark on this milestone. Here are some signs that your child might be ready for their first bra:

• She is showing discomfort in her chest. 
• She is developing breast buds. 
• If your daughter is asking about bra shopping. 
• If she is beginning to become more self-conscious or embarrassed by her breasts.

The Art of the Training Bra 

Usually, when a girl needs her first bra she starts with a training bra. What is a training bra? The name is a little misleading. A training bra is not necessarily training your daughter for anything, rather it is just meant to act as a barrier between your daughter’s developing buds and her clothing. Training bras do not offer support to the breast and do nothing to train the breast, they are simply worn for social and psychological reasons. 

Although they may not be considered a “real” bra, they are a great first step for a child who is requesting to wear a bra. When the breasts are just budding, they don’t need a full support or coverage bra. However, if your daughter is developing larger breasts or expresses interest in a traditional bra, that is always an option as well.

How to Pick the Right Bra 

Okay, you have had the talk and everyone is on board with getting a bra, now what? How do you ensure that you select the right bra for your daughter? Let’s break it down! Bra sizes are comprised of two different components. You have the band size and the cup size. The band size is measuring the size of the band or piece that wraps around your back. It is the space around your ribcage directly under your breasts. The cup size is measuring for the size of the cups, or places where your actual breast will sit in the bra. It is measured by going across the fullest part of your bust. 

Now that you have the components of the actual bra, you should also keep in mind other key factors. The perfect bra for your daughter would offer her:

• Good coverage. 
• Quality support that her breasts need. 
• Makes her feel comfortable, nothing too tight, too loose, or too bold of a pattern or color choice. 

Be sure to keep in mind your child’s emotional needs at this time as well. If she seems embarrassed, don’t pick anything too loud or over the top. If she expresses that she wants just a training bra don’t push for a traditional bra. Or if she needs a bra because she is more developed, don’t feel awkward skipping the training bra stage. It is all about making you and your child as comfortable with the process as can be, both physically and emotionally. 

All About Bra Terminology 

Buying a bra for the first time can be overwhelming. Especially with all of the technical terminology surrounding bras. Here is a cheat sheet for you and your daughter on all of the bra terminology that may be commonly used when shopping for a bra.

How to Measure Bra Size 

When it is finally time to get a bra, you want to make sure you get the right size. How can you determine the right size? Well, there are two methods you can choose from. First, you can go to a store that sells bras and have an associate who works there to get your measurements and assist you in selecting the right size. Alternatively, you can measure yourself at home to determine your size and go pick one up or order a bra online. We will cover both options below.

Go to a Store 

If you don’t want the hassle of measuring yourself or if your child would prefer to talk about it with someone other than you, you can always go to a store to get measured. Most clothing and commercial retailers sell bras. Examples of stores that sell bras are Victoria’s Secret, Kohl’s, Soma, T.J. Max, Macy’s, and more. You can go to one of these stores and ask an associate for assistance. 

The associate will measure you, in the same way you would at home, and assist you in finding the correct style and fit for your bra. If having this conversation and helping your child find a bra is a bit uncomfortable for you both this may be a good option. However, it may be more embarrassing for some girls to have to discuss their bra and body specifics with a stranger, so keep that in mind when selecting how you want to go about this process. 

Measure At Home 

If you or your child are more comfortable measuring at home, here is how you determine your bra size from the comfort of your own home. You will need a tape measure to take the measurements. First, you will take the tape measure and wrap it around your rib cage, directly under your breasts. Look at the number on the tape measure where the two ends meet at the front of your rib cage, round to the nearest inch. This measurement determines your band size.

Next, take the tape measure and measure over the fullest part of your bust. Be sure to keep the tape level around your body. Look at the number on the tape measure where the two ends meet at the front of your bust, round to the nearest inch. This is the measurement of your cup size. Now you have successfully measured your bra size. 

Now that you have your measurements, what do you do with them? The band size is made up of even numbers. Examples include 32, 34, 36, 38, and so on. Cups are measured in letters. A, B, C, D, DD, and so on. So you take your band size to determine how wide of a band you would need, and you take your bust measurement to determine your cup size. The chart below shows you which measurements correlate with which cup and band sizes. 

Free Bra Size Measurement Chart 

Tips for Trying on Bras 

Here are some practical tips for when you are measuring for, and trying on bras to ensure you get your perfect fit. When trying on:

• If the band size comes out as an uneven number, round up to the next band size.
  • Example: your band width comes out to 35 inches, so you should select a 36 band size. 

• If you feel like you’re in-between sizes or just can’t get it right try going up a band size and down a cup. Or you could try the opposite and go up a cup and down a band size.
  • Example: You are a 42D but it's too tight around the band. So you switch to a 44C.
  • Example: You are a 38C but the band is a little loose. So you switch to a 36D. 

• If your breasts are two different sizes, fit the smaller of the breasts. 

Additionally when shopping for bras, if you want to make sure it is the right fit for you, make sure it does the following:

• Feels comfortable 
• Feels secure
• Cups completely contain your breasts 
• Breasts do not spill out over the sides of cups
• The back of the bra stays in place and does not ride up 
• It does not dig into your shoulders

Tips for Talking to Your Child About Bras 

Even though you now have all of the tools to successfully measure your or your child’s bra size, talking about it still may not be easy. Here are some tips on how to best broach the subject with your daughter, and how to continue to communicate with her throughout this new process. 

The Tips:

• Encourage her that her body is beautiful and unique.

• Help her understand what is happening to her body and answer any questions she may have. 

• Build that body confidence! During this stage, and the rest of puberty girls are subject to social pressures and standards that may diminish their self-confidence. Help her combat that by being kind, and understanding, and reminding her how she and her body are beautiful, even with these new changes. 

• Avoid blunt statements like “you need a bra!” Instead, focus on making gentle suggestions and talking about body changes in age-appropriate ways. Instead try, “You know I think I was around your age when I got my first bra, maybe we could look for one for you?” 

• Remind her that it is an experience that every woman goes through. This will help her feel like she is supported and not alone. 

• Try to make it fun by letting your child pick styles that are age-appropriate but to her taste. If it is something she likes, it will be a less stressful experience. 

• Let your child know they can come to you with questions and that it is a judgment-free space. Opening up about puberty and bodily changes can be scary, especially if you fear being ridiculed. By letting your daughter know you are there to support her and not tease her, she will be more willing to open up to you. 

There you have it!  You are now armed with the knowledge of how to measure bra size and all of the tips and tricks on making it as painless of an experience as possible. Happy shopping! 

The image featured at the top of this post is ©SKT Studio/Shutterstock.com.

The post How To Measure Bra Size With This Simple (Free!) Chart appeared first on Moms Who Think.

Do you love shrimp and love being healthy? Well then do we have a treat for you? Today we are going to discuss 30 low-calorie shrimp meals that are delicious and nutritious. These meals will not only all be under 500 calories but will contain ingredients that are beneficial to you and your family’s health. Did I also mention that they will all be easy to make as well? Fast, easy, low-calorie, and healthy! What more could you possibly want from a recipe? So, without further ado, let’s discover the 30 low-calorie shrimp meals. 

1. Shrimp Fajitas 

These shrimp fajitas are sure to be a family favorite. Preheat your oven to 400°F. While your oven is heating, combine olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, chipotle powder, and the juice of one lime in a bowl. Once that mixture is combined, slice an onion, and a red and yellow bell pepper and pour them into a baking dish. Pour about two-thirds of your sauce mixture onto those veggies and bake them for 15 minutes. While they are baking, pour the remaining sauce mixture over your shrimp and let them marinate. When the vegetables are done, take them out and place the shrimp on top of them. Place everything back into the oven and bake for 5-10 minutes, or until the shrimp are fully cooked through. Once cooked, place this mixture inside a corn tortilla and top with fresh avocado slices, cilantro, some black beans, and hot sauce. 

2. Grilled Shrimp Skewers

Who doesn’t love grilled shrimp? This low-calorie shrimp meal is simple and delicious. You will need shrimp, tomatoes,  and some zucchini or squash. Season your shrimp with some salt and pepper. In a bowl, combine olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic, lemon juice, soy sauce, and a little Dijon mustard. Add your shrimp and let them marinate for about 20 minutes. While your shrimp is marinating, chop your vegetables. Slice your zucchini and tomatoes into skewer-friendly shapes. Then stagger your tomatoes, shrimp, and zucchini along the skewer. Be sure to soak your skewers in water before placing the food on them. Once your skewer is stacked place it on the grill and grill each side for about 3 minutes, or until shrimp is cooked through and vegetables are lightly charred. 

3. Mango Salsa Shrimp With Rice

For this recipe, you will season your shrimp with salt, pepper, garlic, and cayenne. Cook them in a skillet over medium-high heat. While your shrimp are cooking, chop a fresh mango, a red bell pepper, a jalepaño, an avocado, and some cilantro. Combine all of those in a bowl and squeeze fresh lime juice onto it. Add salt to taste. Serve the shrimp and mango salsa over a bed of cauliflower rice.

4. Shrimp Tacos

Another low-calorie shrimp meal is the fan-favorite of shrimp tacos. Pan-sear your shrimp with taco seasoning, olive oil, garlic, and a little cayenne pepper. While they are cooking, chop cilantro and thinly slice a radish. Make your taco sauce by combining lime juice, cilantro, onion, jalepaño, tahini, and honey. Blend all together. Grab your corn tortilla. Place your cooked shrimp onto your tortilla, and top with your radish slices and cilantro. Drizzle sauce on top.

5. Roasted Shrimp With Feta

For this recipe, simply add all of the following ingredients to a baking dish. Shrimp, oregano, garlic, red pepper, capers, and white wine. Bake them for 15 minutes at 400°F. Serve them with a side of polenta or mashed potatoes.

6. Garlic Shrimp With Spinach

On the stove, over medium heat, cook your shrimp with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic, red pepper flakes, and a little lemon juice. In the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, add in your spinach. Cook until it is wilted. Throw this mixture over a bed of whole-wheat couscous.

7. Shrimp Stir-Fry

Nothing screams a simple low-calorie meal like some stir-fry. In a wok, heat some olive oil, garlic, and fresh ginger. Throw your shrimp in and cook until pink. Next, add your stir-fry veggies. I recommend sugar snap peas, red bell pepper, water chestnuts, and baby corn. Throw in some soy sauce and a little teriyaki sauce. Simmer until vegetables soften and absorb some of the sauce. Serve with white rice.

8. Shrimp and Sausage Bowl

This 20-minute, low-calorie shrimp meal is easy and delicious. Grab some shrimp and turkey kielbasa and heat them in a pan on the stove with garlic, butter, paprika, salt, pepper, and some garlic powder. If you want more sauce, add the juice of one lime and a little bit of a store-bought sauce of your choosing. I personally love Wegman's Fire Dragon sauce, but be warned it has a kick to it. Serve over a bed of spinach, corn, and roasted baby potatoes.

9. Shrimp Buddha Bowl

A Buddha bowl is considered to be a bowl that is balanced in nutrition, texture, and flavor. You can easily make one with shrimp by doing the following. Cook your shrimp in a skillet with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. At the base of your bowl, place some baby spinach. Next top with chopped carrots, and hard-boiled eggs. After, sprinkle in some fresh corn, and some fresh mango slices. Then, add some fresh chopped cilantro and your shrimp. Season with peanut sauce.

10. Buffalo Shrimp Lettuce Wraps

Cook your shrimp in a skillet over medium-high heat with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Once the shrimp are just about pink, pour buffalo sauce over them and let them simmer for about 5 minutes. As your shrimp are simmering in the sauce, thinly slice a red onion and crumple some feta cheese. Spoon your shrimp into a piece of lettuce and top with red onion and your cheese.

11. Shrimp and Broccoli

Drizzle your broccoli with olive oil, lemon juice, and salt and pepper. Bake in the oven for 20 minutes at 350 °F. While your broccoli is baking, cook your shrimp on the stovetop in butter, lemon juice, capers, and white wine. Add salt and pepper to taste. Serve together with a side of white or brown rice.

12. Shrimp and Vegetable Bake

Chop zucchini, onion, bell peppers, and carrots and place them in a bowl. Separate your broccoli into little florets and add them to the bowl as well. Season your veggies with salt, Italian seasoning, paprika, olive oil, and black pepper. Bake them in the oven for 15 minutes at 425°F. While they are baking, season your shrimp with the same seasoning mixture. Take your vegetables out and place your shrimp on top. Place back in the oven and bake for another 5 minutes. Serve with salad or a side of rice.

13. Mediterranean Shrimp Bowl

Cook your shrimp in a skillet with olive oil, salt, pepper, lemon juice, and fresh dill. Serve over a bed of couscous with crumbled feta cheese, cherry tomatoes, and fresh basil

14. Shrimp and Avocado Salad

Season your shrimp with salt, pepper, and avocado oil. Grill your shrimp until they are charred evenly on both sides. Thinly slice a red onion. Also, chop an avocado and prepare fresh spinach. In a bowl, lay your spinach down and place your red onion and avocado slices on top. Top with your shrimp and season with a little olive oil, vinegar, lemon juice, and salt to pepper to taste.

15. Coconut Lime Shrimp Bowl

In a blender combine, coconut milk, chopped pineapple, lime juice, garlic, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth. Marinate your shrimp in this mixture for 20 minutes. Heat olive oil over a pan on medium-high heat and place your shrimp inside. Cook for 5-10 minutes, tossing shrimp occasionally. Serve this shrimp in a bowl with a side of white rice, and red cabbage with fresh lime juice on top. Use any extra pineapple wedges as garnish.

16. Shrimp Curry

Season your shrimp with garam masala, ground cumin, turmeric, salt, red chili powder, and olive oil. Sear your shrimp for one minute per side, then remove from heat. Next, place butter in a pan and heat sliced onion until soft. Add garlic and ginger, stirring until fragrant. After, add garam masala, cumin, ground coriander, and turmeric, and stir. Furthermore, add crushed tomatoes, chili powder, salt, and coconut milk. Let this simmer until it is slightly thicker. Afterward, add your shrimp back in and allow it to simmer until shrimp are fully cooked. Serve with jasmine rice.

17. Shrimp Ceviche

Chop your shrimp into tiny, 1/2-inch pieces. Place them in a bowl and set them aside. In a bowl mix together lemon, lime, and orange juice. Pour half of this juice mixture over the shrimp pieces to marinate. In the remaining juice, add jalepaños, tomato, apple, cilantro, and red onion. Toss this ingredients together and allow to sit for 10 minutes. After, add chopped avocado. Put all ingredients in a bowl and mix with salt and pepper to taste.

*Note: If you do not have access to fresh shrimp, or are concerned with eating uncooked shrimp you can easily follow this recipe, with cooking the shrimp first.

18. Shrimp Zucchini Boats

Slice your zucchinis lengthwise in half. Scoop out the center to create a well for your shrimp to go. Brush your zucchini with olive oil and sprinkle them with garlic and fresh herb seasoning. Over medium-high heat, grill them with their cut side down for about 5 minutes. Or, you can bake them for 15 minutes at 450°F, also cut side down. In a skillet over medium heat, melt some butter. Add in your shrimp and more garlic herb seasoning. Also, add some fresh lemon juice. Cook your shrimp until they start to turn golden brown, then remove them and place them in a bowl. In that same pan melt more butter and artichoke hearts. Cook for about 5 minutes. Now, take your already grilled or baked zucchini boats and fill them with the artichoke heart filling and shrimp. Top with parmesan cheese. Heat under the broiler for five minutes.

19. Caesar Salad With Garlic Shrimp

Rinse, dry, and chop romaine lettuce into bite-size pieces. Sprinkle generously with parmesan cheese and croutons. Cook your shrimp on the stovetop in olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Add them to your salad bowl. Drizzle Caesar dressing on top and toss gently until everything is evenly coated. Garnish with fresh lemon wedges.

20. Sheet Pan Shrimp Gumbo

Grab some shrimp, andouille sausage, sweet corn, and potatoes, and make yourself a Cajun dinner! First, cut your corn on the cob into four, mouthful pieces. Boil them in water until they soften. Next, chop your baby potatoes in half, and season with salt, pepper, and cajun seasoning. Drizzle them with olive oil and bake them in the oven at 400°F for 20 minutes to soften them. When they are done, take your corn, andouille sausage, and shrimp and add them to the baking sheet as well. Add more oil, salt, pepper, and cajun seasoning. Also top with fresh cilantro. Bake for another 5-10 minutes.

21. Taco Lime Shrimp Skewers

Season your shrimp with taco seasoning, enchilada sauce, and fresh lime juice. Let them marinate for about 20 minutes while you soak your skewers and fire up your grill. Grill them until they are evenly charred on both sides. Top with fresh cilantro and another squirt of lime juice. Serve with a side of vegetables.

22. Shrimp Skillet With Sweet Corn and Rice

Saute your shrimp with salt, pepper, olive oil, white miso, garlic, ginger, and turmeric. Once they are pink add in sweet corn, scallions, and your cooked brown rice. Add more of all the seasoning and squirt fresh lime juice on top. Serve with fresh cilantro and fresh lime wedges.

23. Lemon Garlic Shrimp

This low-calorie shrimp meal is one of the easiest to make. You just need shrimp, butter, lemons, salt, pepper, and cilantro. Melt butter in a pan over medium-high heat. Season your shrimp with salt and pepper to taste. Throw them into the pan and let them get golden brown. Then add in your lemon juice and chopped cilantro. Serve with rice or mashed potatoes and a salad.

24. Shrimp Cocktail

Perfect for parties or gatherings, this low-calorie shrimp meal is sure to impress. Once your shrimp are thawed and cleaned, put them on a baking sheet and bake them at 450°F for 10 minutes. Once they are pink you can serve them on a platter with the cocktail sauce. You can buy pre-made cocktail sauce or make your own. If you want to make your own you will need, ketchup, mild chili sauce, horseradish, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce. You will also want to let the sauce sit in the fridge for at least an hour.

25. Shrimp Cucumber Bites

Looking for a shrimp recipe that is more of an appetizer rather than a meal? Well then this is for you! Saute your shrimp in a pan with butter, garlic, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Chop your cucumber into small bite-size pieces and top each slice with fresh guacamole. Place one of your cooked shrimp on top and you now have a bite-size, delicious treat.

26. Shrimp Zucchini Pasta

Grab some zoodles from the store and get ready to take a trip to Tuscany, all from the comfort of your kitchen. This low-calorie shrimp meal with have everyone coming back for seconds. Saute your shrimp in a pan with olive oil, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Once they are golden brown remove them from the pan and place them in a bowl. In that same pan, now add some butter, your zoodles, cherry tomatoes, a splash of white wine, and some grated parmesan cheese. Allow it to simmer for 3-5 minutes. Add your shrimp back in and allow it to simmer for 3-5 minutes more. Now enjoy the fresh flavor!

27. Shrimp Sushi Bowls

Not everyone has the patience to roll their own sushi, or the tastebuds for raw fish. Luckily, these shrimp sushi bowls solve both issues. For this recipe, saute your shrimp in olive oil, salt, and pepper. In a bowl place your white rice on the bottom. On top add edamame, matchstick carrots, avocado slices, fresh scallions, and your shrimp. Top with sesame seeds and a siracha mayo sauce.

28. Pineapple Shrimp Skewers

Tired of shrimp skewers yet? We aren't? Make them unique by adding some pineapple to them! Soak your skewers in water, then add shrimp and pineapple chunks to them alternately. Marinate them in honey, siracha, maple syrup, and a little soy sauce. Grill them until both sides are charred. Top with fresh scallions and sesame seeds.

29. Honey Harissa Shrimp With Couscous

Cook your couscous and set aside. Marinate your shrimp in honey, harissa sauce, salt, pepper, and soy sauce. Saute them in a pan until cooked through. Place them on top of your couscous with cherry tomatoes and fresh mint leaves. If you want to make this dish even more exciting, top with a fresh tzatziki dressing.

30. Shrimp and Grits

Buy and cook your grits. Saute your shrimp in lemon juice, butter, garlic, salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, and fresh parsley. Top your grits with the shrimp and pour some of the juice over it all. This meal will be flavorful and filling!

The image featured at the top of this post is ©Candice Bell/Shutterstock.com.

The post These 30 Low-Calorie Shrimp Meals are Under 500 Calories and Easy to Make appeared first on Moms Who Think.

We all crave delicious and nutritious meals, but sometimes the things that taste the best for us are loaded with calories. While calories are important and are essential in assisting your body to work properly, consuming too many of them can lead to weight gain. However, reducing your calories does not mean you need to skimp on flavor. In this article, we will share 30 meals under 500 calories that are nutritious, delicious, and sure to leave you satisfied. 

1. Chickpea Quinoa Bowls

Want a protein-packed bowl with fewer calories? Swap the meat for some chickpeas. Chickpeas are a great source of protein but are lower in calories than chicken or beef. Over a bed of quinoa, place your chickpeas, sliced cucumbers, feta cheese, Kalamata olives, and some sliced red onions. Garnish with fresh parsley. You can create a roasted red pepper sauce to go with it by combining red peppers, garlic, olive oil, and paprika in an immersion blender.

2. Ground Beef Lettuce Wraps

Not only is this meal under 500 calories, but it is super simple to make as well. Make a sauce with rice vinegar, water, soy sauce, siracha, garlic, and a little sugar. Cook your ground beef with garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Place your beef into your lettuce wrap and place shredded carrots and chopped scallions on top. Garnish with fresh mint and sprinkle the sauce on top.

3. Sheetpan Chicken and Vegetables

Combine soy sauce, olive oil, ginger, garlic, and crushed red pepper in a bowl. Mix well to create your sauce. In another bowl, have your chicken and vegetable mixture. Snap peas, bell peppers, and scallions are recommended. Pour the sauce over the mixture and add it all to a baking sheet pan. Bake for 20 minutes at 400°F. Stir halfway through. When finished garnish with sesame oil.

4. Coconut Chickpea Curry

While this recipe may surprise you because of the rice, it is still under 500 calories. 1 cup of white rice has about 206 calories, and this meal can serve four. So that is only about 52 calories per person coming from the rice. For this recipe, you will need to buy a store curry sauce. Try to look for one with a lower sodium content. In a skillet, over medium-high heat, you will add onion, pepper, and zucchini until they brown. Then add your chickpeas and your selected curry sauce. Add spinach just before serving so it can wilt. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and place over white rice.

5. Stuffed Peppers

This is a delicious and easy meal to make. Gather some bell peppers and chop off the tops. Remove any lingering seeds from within and have them stand up like a cup. In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook your ground turkey with salt, pepper, and taco seasoning. While that is cooking, prepare your Spanish rice on another burner. Additionally, chop up some cilantro, and a jalepaño. Open, rinse, and drain a can of black beans. Once everything is cooked, add your rice and beans to the bottom of your pepper cup. Then top with the ground turkey and chopped jalepaño. Sprinkle a little cheese on top and bake at 350 for about 20 minutes or until cheese is melted. Garnish with your chopped cilantro.

6. Grilled Chicken Salad

You can spice up a salad with a few simple steps. For this salad, use spinach as your base and garnish with vegetables of your choosing. We recommend cherry tomatoes, corn, feta cheese, and a couple of slices of avocado. Grill your chicken and place it on top. Season with a balsamic vinaigrette or with lime juice and salt.

7. Kielbasa Skillet

This meal under 500 calories is always a family favorite and can be made in 20 minutes or less. Make a batch of brown rice and set it on the side. In a pan, heat your kielbasa with an onion, some mushrooms, and garlic. In a separate bowl, mix corn, black beans, cilantro, and diced red pepper. Season the vegetables with olive oil, lime juice, and salt. Stir the vegetables into the rice. For a little additional flavor, you can add a soy sauce or seasoning of your choice. A personal favorite of my household is Wegmans's Citrus Ginger Sauce. Combine the vegetable rice mixture and kielbasa and serve.

8. Salmon Rice Bowl

Mix siracha, honey, avocado oil, salt, pepper, garlic, and ginger in a bowl. Pour over your salmon filets and bake in the oven at 400 °F for 8-10 minutes. Meanwhile, cook a batch of brown rice. Dice an avocado, a red bell pepper, and some cucumbers. Place the rice on the bottom of your bowl, drizzle a little soy sauce on top. Next place your avocado, cucumber, and red pepper pieces into the bowl. Place your salmon on top, and garnish with a fresh herb of your choice and some sesame seeds.

9. Sweet Potato Nachos

Did you know that a typical plate of nachos can reach up to over 1,000 calories? What if I told you there was a way to make this delicious meal for under 500 calories? The secret? Sweet potatoes! Swap out those chips for a healthier choice and make some slight modifications to this family-favorite dish. For this recipe, you will place your oven at 325°F. Rinse, clean, and thinly slice your sweet potatoes into a chip-like shape. You place these onto a baking sheet and drizzle some olive oil on top.

Next, place them into the oven and allow them to bake for 20 minutes. While they are baking, add corn, black beans, and canned chicken to a bowl. Add seasoning of your choice. I like a little hot sauce on mine. After 20 minutes flip your potatoes and let them cook for another 15. Then, take them out and place your mixture on top of your sweet potato chips. Sprinkle some shredded cheddar cheese on top and place back in the oven. Cook until the cheese is fully melted, then garnish with fresh cilantro.

10. Seared Tuna Steak With Spinach Salad

Grill or pan-sear a tuna steak. Season with some garlic, ginger, and a little soy sauce. Feel free to add a store-bought sauce as well. Opt for one that is low in sugar, sodium, and caloric content. Then place the tuna steak over a bed of spinach. You can garnish your spinach salad with hard-boiled eggs, almonds, and cranberries. Dress with a vinegarette.

11. Shrimp Fajitas

Preheat your oven to 400 °F. In a bowl combine olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, chipotle powder, and the juice of 1 lime. Slice an onion, a red bell pepper, and a yellow bell pepper, and pour 2/3 of the mixture over the vegetables. Place them in the oven for 15 minutes. While they are cooking pour the remaining amount of oil over your shrimp. Once vegetables are softened pull them out and place the shrimp on top of them. Continuing cooking until the shrimp are cooked through, about 5-10 minutes. Then you can place the mixture in a corn tortilla. Top with fresh avocado, cilantro, and hot sauce.

12. Loaded Chicken and Quinoa Salad

Grill a chicken breast and cook a cup of quinoa. Grab a bag of mixed salad greens and dress it with half of an avocado, some baked sweet potato, and fresh mango slices. Add some of the breast and quinoa to the salad. Top with balsamic vinegar and some sunflower seeds. For extra flavor, you can add some crumbled feta cheese.

13. “Spaghetti” and Meatballs

If you want this classic, delicious dish, but want to lessen the calories. Swap the pasta for spaghetti squash. Place your oven at 350°F. Cut your squash lengthwise and discard any seeds or membranes within. Then place it in the oven, cut side down, in a large baking dish with some water. Bake for 45-50 minutes. While that is baking make your meatballs. Add two eggs, beaten, chopped spinach, breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, minced onion, garlic, and ground meat of your choice to a bowl and mix. Shape them into balls and cook them on the stovetop. Once your squash is done, let it cool for 15 minutes and then scrape the “noodles” out. Place your meatballs on top, and if you want add roasted mushrooms and a fresh herb of your choice to the dish as well.

14. Shrimp Tacos

Another meal under 500 calories that utilizes those delicious corn tortillas. These shrimp tacos are easy and delicious to make! Pan-sear your shrimp with taco seasoning, olive oil, garlic, and a little cayenne pepper. While they are cooking, chop cilantro and thinly slice a radish. For a delicious sauce, combine lime juice, cilantro, onion, jalapeno, tahini, and honey. Blend all together and add to your tacos. Place the sauce on your tortilla then place the shrimp. Top with fresh cilantro and radishes.

15. Mahi Mahi and Quinoa Salad

Coat your mahi mahi with lemon juice, fresh thyme, garlic, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Bake it in the oven at 400°F for 20 minutes. While your fish is baking prepare your quinoa. To add color and flavor to the salad, add sweet red peppers, fresh cilantro, olive oil, salt, and some feta cheese.

16. Ground Turkey Stir-Fry

Grab a medley of vegetables, such as baby corn, asparagus, red bell peppers, and mushrooms. Wash and chop them into bite-size pieces. Season your ground turkey with salt, pepper, garlic, and onion powder. Place your ground turkey in a skillet over medium-high heat with your olive oil. Cook until browned. Then add all of your vegetables to the skillet with your meat. Add soy sauce, and a little teriyaki sauce and let it simmer until vegetables soften. Top with fresh cilantro and basil.

17. One Pan Chicken Bake

On a baking sheet, place your chicken, asparagus, carrots, and sliced golden potatoes. Coat them in lemon, fresh dill, parsley, salt, pepper, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Bake them for 15 minutes at 375 °F. Garnish with fresh lemon slices.

18. Beef Buddha Bowl

Chop your top round steak into bite-size pieces. Cook in a skillet over medium-high heat with a little olive oil, salt, pepper, taco seasoning, and soy sauce. While the meat is cooking, cook brown rice. Next, chop a red bell pepper, a cucumber, and some fresh cilantro. Place the rice at the bottom of your bowl. Then layer the spinach and chopped vegetables. Place your beef on top and garnish with your chopped cilantro. Dress with lime juice and sea salt.

19. Homemade Vegetable Soup

Dice onions carrots and celery. Saute them in a large pot with olive oil for 5 minutes, add garlic then cook one minute longer. Then add vegetable broth, tomatoes, potatoes, parsley, bay leaves, thyme, and season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil then add in green beans. Reduce heat to medium and allow to simmer for 30 minutes until all vegetables are tender.

20. Stuffed Acorn Squash

Slice your acorn squash and remove any seeds and lining from within. Place your squash, cut side down, in a baking dish with water. Cook at 400°F, uncovered for 45 minutes. In a skillet cook the ground meat of your choice, with salt, pepper, onion, and garlic powder. Take your squash out of the oven. Stuff your acorn squash with fresh mozzarella cheese, spinach, cherry tomatoes, and your ground meat. Drizzle olive oil on top and season with more salt and pepper. Place it back in the oven and bake for 5-10 minutes more or until cheese has fully melted.

21. Bourbon Glazed Salmon

Combine bourbon, maple syrup, soy sauce, and garlic in a bowl. Cover both sides of your salmon filets with the mixture. Cook in the skillet for 8-10 minutes, flipping once halfway through. Top with fresh chives. Serve with a side of salad.

22. Shrimp and Broccoli Stir-Fry

Another delicious stir-fry variation for a meal under 500 calories. In a skillet cook your shrimp with 1 tbsp of butter, salt, garlic, and paprika. Once shrimp are cooked add your broccoli to the skillet. Add soy sauce and fresh ginger. Simmer until your broccoli softens. Place the mixture over a bed of brown rice and garnish with fresh scallions.

23. Chicken Burrito Skillet

For this recipe, picture a burrito, but without the tortilla. Season your chicken how you would for tacos. Salt, pepper, taco seasoning, and olive oil. Cook over medium-high heat in a skillet. Then, once mostly cooked, add your Spanish rice, black beans, sliced tomatoes, Mexican blend cheese, and fresh scallions. Stir to combine and continue to simmer until flavors blend and meat is cooked through. For an extra kick, top with hot sauce. Also, feel free to top with a dollop of sour cream or fresh avocado slices.

24. Chicken Buddah Bowl

Chop your chicken into bite-size pieces. Cook over medium-high heat on a skillet with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic, honey, siracha, and coconut aminos. While your chicken is cooking, wash some sugar snap peas, red cabbage (sliced), cherry tomatoes, and fresh corn. Cook white rice and serve it on the bottom of the bowl. Then place your corn, cherry tomatoes, red cabbage, and sugar snap peas around the edges of the bowl. Place your chicken in the center, on top. Garnish with fresh cilantro and sesame seeds. If you need more sauce, add a little more coconut aminos to your bowl and fresh lime juice.

25. Fresh Fruit and Kale Salad

Stem and chop your curly kale. Massage the kale in a bowl with your hands Then add in goat cheese, pecans, blueberries, sliced strawberries, almonds, and edamame. In a smaller bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, chives, honey, and mustard. Mix well and pour over your salad, toss to combine.

26. One Bake Chicken

Wash and chop two leeks, 1 butternut squash, and scallions. Place them at the bottom of a baking dish. Pour one can of coconut milk into the dish along with diced fresh sage leaves. Cut your chicken into bite-size pieces and season with salt and pepper. Place on top of the mixture in the dish. Bake in the oven for 30 minutes at 350°F.

27. Mediterranean Bowl

Prepare and cook the orzo. Grill your chicken, with some light seasoning of your preference. Wilt spinach with some olive oil and garlic. In a bowl place your orzo as the base, then your chicken. Add your wilted spinach, cherry tomatoes, and feta cheese. Season with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Garnish with fresh basil.

28. Mushroom and Tofu Stirfry

Add peanut oil to a skillet and allow it to heat. Add mushrooms and chopped bell peppers to the skillet and stir occasionally for about 5 minutes. Next, add chopped scallions, fresh ginger, and garlic. Cook for an additional minute then remove from heat and transfer to a bowl. Add more oil and the tofu to the pan. Season with salt and pepper and cook until the tofu browns. Then, add the vegetables back in add a little oyster and soy sauce. Cook for one more minute.

28. Citrus Ginger Chicken Salad

Marinate your chicken breasts in a premade citrus sauce. I recommend Wegmans Spicy Citrus Ginger sauce. Cook your chicken on the stovetop over medium-high heat. Once the chicken has cooled, slice it into strips. To create your salad, place a bed of lettuce down. Then top it with red cabbage, matchstick carrots, chopped cashews, diced scallions, and orange slices. Place your chicken on top and garnish with fresh sesame seeds. You can drizzle a nice citrus vinaigrette on top.

29. Turkey Patties With Salad

In a bowl, combine ground turkey, dijon mustard, chopped bell peppers, basil, diced onion, chopped spinach, and soy sauce. Also add salt, pepper, garlic, and fresh ginger. Add one egg and some breadcrumbs. Mix well. Form the mixture into balls and flatten it into patties. Cook on the stovetop. Serve with a bed of fresh spinach.

30. Curry Chickpea Salad

This meal under 500 calories is the perfect addition to any party. In a bowl, mix olive oil, curry powder, garlic, turmeric, fresh lime juice, and salt and pepper. In a large jar, pour that sauce onto the bottom. Then dump a can of chickpeas into the jar. Add diced onions. Next layer diced red bell peppers and sliced carrots to the jar. After, add red cabbage and sliced almonds. Top with golden raisins and fresh cilantro. When ready to serve, flip the jar over into a large bowl and mix well.

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Hawaii is a very popular travel destination. With beautiful beaches, incredible nature views, and a myriad of activities it is no wonder that so many people flock here for vacation. However, when deciding to take a trip to the Hawaiian Islands, you have a lot of options. The state recognizes 137 islands, although out of that 137, there are eight major islands that people know of. With eight islands to choose from, it can be difficult to decide where to spend your well-earned vacation time. In this article, we will be discussing all things Koloa vs Honolulu. Buckle up as we provide you with a travel guide that compares these two beautiful destinations in Hawaii and which is right for your family.

Koloa vs. Honolulu: Location

Koloa

The first difference to keep in mind when choosing between these destinations is their location. Koloa is a town located in the southern part of the island of Kauai. Koloa is known as Hawaii's oldest plantation town because it was the first place in Hawaii where a thriving sugar plantation was established. When visiting now, people can see a ton of eucalyptus trees, shops, and restaurants. Koloa is about a 21-minute drive from the Lihue Airport on Kauai.

Honolulu

Honolulu is located on an entirely different island. As the capital of O'ahu, Honolulu is situated on the south shore of the island and takes up a large portion of it. O'ahu is the most visited of all of the Hawaiian Islands due partially to the amount of nonstop flights available. Furthermore, Honolulu is a popular destination on the island because of its connection to Pearl Harbor. Additionally, it is a highly frequented area for its shopping, nightlife, and various activities.

Koloa vs. Honolulu: Landscape

Koloa

This community is located on the island of Kauai. Kauai is nicknamed the “Garden Island” because of its stunning landscapes. You can find waterfalls, canyons, and beautiful beaches on this island. Koloa is located on the South Shore of this island, which is considered the sunny side of the island. When visiting, you can expect to see stunning beaches and also sugar plantations. The area of Koloa stretches from the Kamualii Highway to Old Koloa Town, which is north of historic Koloa. Additionally, you have access to the Coconut Coast and are only 30 minutes away from Kauai's biggest town Kappa.

Honolulu

Although Honolulu is well known for its stunning beaches, its landscape has more to offer than that. In the Hawaiian language, Honolulu means “sheltered bay” or “place of shelter.” It extends along the southeastern coast of O'ahu and offers access to beaches, the foothills of the Koolau Range, and volcanoes. Additionally, there is access to city and city views as well.

Koloa vs. Honolulu: Cost

Koloa

Out of the most popular islands, Kauai is one of the more expensive ones to visit. Since Koloa is located on the island of Kauai, that means that its prices will reflect that of the island. You don't get stunning tropical views for nothing! The average price of a generic hotel room in this area will be between $230-$400 a night. If you choose to stay in a more luxurious destination you are looking at $500 and more a night.

Honolulu

If you are looking to travel to Hawaii on a budget, Honolulu may be the better choice. Honolulu is located on the island of O'ahu, which is one of the more affordable Hawaiian Islands to visit. Although prices of hotels can still reach between $200 and $360 a night, there are a lot more options in Honolulu. Being a more often traveled destination means that there are a lot of options. A lot of options means more luck at finding budget hotels to choose from.

Koloa vs. Honolulu: Weather

Koloa

Since Koloa is located on the island of Kauai, and Kauai is located in the tropics, the weather is very warm and humid all year round. Summer months are seen as the dry season, with long sunny days, low humidity, and little rainfall. Winter months are the wet season, with heavier rain and moisture. The wet season is what helps Kauai maintain its lush greenery. The average temperatures are between 65 °F at night and 80-85°F during the day. Additionally, Kauai has many microclimates. It can get much colder in the areas where there are rainforests and cliffs. Because Koloa is located on the south side of the island the weather is typically sunny and warm.

Honolulu

On average, Honolulu gets more rain than Kauai. However, Honolulu also sees more sunny days. Honolulu averages about four and a half days of rain per month, with the least amount of rain in September. The temperature is similar to Kauai's, with lows in the 60s at night and highs in the upper 80s during the day. The coldest month in Honolulu is in January. Many travelers recommend visiting during May, September, or October.

Koloa vs. Honolulu: Food

Koloa

While there are a variety of traditional Hawaiian dishes that bring tourists to Koloa, one of the main attractions here is the poke bowls. A poke bowl is a traditional Hawaiian meal that has raw fish, that is often cubed, with soy sauce, and sesame oil. Tuna and salmon are often the fish that are featured in this dish. One of the reasons that this dish is so popular is because The Koloa Fish Market is widely recognized as Kauai's top purveyor of Ahi poke. In addition, you can expect to find great seafood and even a variety of cuisines like Mexican and Italian dishes.

Honolulu

When in Honolulu, you have to try the various local dishes. Dishes such as Acai bowls, Poi donuts, Kona coffee, Loco moco, and more are readily available in Honolulu. Honolulu is a great place for good eats as it mixes traditional Hawaiian food with inspiration from other cultures. If you are looking for some great local restaurants, people rave about Fresh Catch, One Seafood, Sweet E's Cafe, Tempura Kiki, and Ramen Akatsuki.

Koloa vs. Honolulu: Water and Beaches

Koloa

Known to have beautiful beaches, this is an area that is often visited for snorkeling. Some beaches are crowded while others are rarely visited, but all feature beautiful sand and waters. Most of the beaches here offer the chance for fabulous snorkeling, surfing, and sunbathing. By far one of the most popular beaches in the area is Poipu Beach. Not only does this beach offer beautiful sand and waters but it also has a fair amount of amenities. It has lifeguards, showers, and the occasional wildlife visit from monk seals. Mix that with its incredible snorkeling opportunities and it is no wonder that this beach was named one of the best beaches in America. In addition to this beach, other great beaches in Koloa include Shipwreck Beach and Baby Beach.

Honolulu

Honolulu is one of the world's greatest beach destinations. Perhaps its most famous beach is Waikiki Baech. Waikiki Beach is one of the most recognizable beaches and is where a lot of tourism in Hawaii started. With beautiful white sand, gentle waves, and plenty of lifeguard stations, this beach has it all. Also, it is close to a lot of other exciting events such as Luaus, shops, restaurants, and more. Another incredible beach in Honolulu is Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve. This secluded cove is an amazing spot for snorkeling and its beauty attracts tourists year round.

Koloa vs. Honolulu: Activities

Koloa

In Koloa, there are a lot of opportunities to see the beautiful nature that the Hawaiian Islands have to offer. You can enjoy some of the beautiful beaches mentioned above or you can visit some lovely gardens. A popular garden in Koloa is the National Tropical Botanical Garden. Enjoy this formerly-owned private estate and see incredible plants, massive trees, and stunning natural beauty. You can also explore Old Koloa Town for a couple of hours and enjoy all of the scenic shops and restaurants.

Honolulu

Besides its incredible beaches, Honolulu offers a wide range of activities. Some of the most popular activities include the Diamond Head State Monument, the Pearl Harbor National Museum, and Manoa Falls. Diamond Head is one of the most well-known activities in Honolulu. As a volcanic tuff cone, this landmark is easily recognized and a favorite hike among tourists. Additionally, the Pearl Harbor National Museum is a popular choice because of its rich history. Furthermore, Honolulu offers beautiful waterfall hikes like the one to Manoa Falls. Hike to the 150-foot waterfall and take in the incredible sights.

Koloa vs. Honolulu: A Side-by-Side Comparison

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There is always some new health trend telling you what foods are in and out of the health world. For most people, it is as simple as changing what protein they use or which starch they cut out of their diet. However, for people with health issues or those who take prescription medications, it can be a bit more challenging. Sometimes, foods will interact with certain medications causing adverse reactions or ineffectivity of that medication. In this article, we will be discussing which foods to avoid on Ozempic. Additionally, we will provide you with better alternatives so that you can still feel like you're enjoying these delicious foods. Let's dive in!

What is Ozempic?

Before diving into foods to avoid on Ozempic we should first discuss what Ozempic is and how it functions in the body. Ozepmic is a weekly injection for individuals suffering from type 2 diabetes. This injection helps lower blood sugar by assisting the pancreas in creating more insulin. It works by mimicking a naturally occurring hormone.

What Does Food Have to Do With Medication?

Oftentimes, if you are encouraged to avoid food while taking a particular medication it is because it can either cause an adverse reaction or can lessen the effectiveness of the drug you are taking. According to the Oman Medical Journal, “Such interactions are frequently caused by chelation with components in food. In addition, the physiological response to food intake, in particular, gastric acid secretion, may reduce or increase the bioavailability of certain drugs.”

15 + Foods to Avoid on Ozempic

In general, you will want to avoid the following food groups and types of food while taking Ozempic. High-fat foods, greasy or fried foods, alcohol, high glycemic index foods, ultra-processed foods, and foods and drinks that are high in sugar. Below we will cover some common examples of each category as well as things you can substitute for them.

1. Fried Chicken

The most common side effects of Ozempic include nausea, diarrhea, stomach or abdominal pain, vomiting, and constipation. Fried chicken and other fried foods are high in fat. Foods that are high in fat can lead to stomach upset and all of the side effects of Ozempic on their own. So, when eaten in conjunction with Ozempic the chances of developing those unpleasant side effects increases. Additionally, if you were already experiencing those side effects, eating high-fat food like fried chicken could worsen them.

What to Eat Instead: Grilled or Baked Chicken

If you are craving that chicken, you can still have it just cook it a different way. You can eat a nice grilled chicken, which is low in fat or you can get creative at home. You can buy chicken breasts or cutlets and bread them yourself. Try to find the healthiest options, perhaps gluten-free or with less seasoning. Then you can bake your chicken with a small amount of extra virgin olive oil, herbs of your choosing, and a little Dijon mustard. Now you have the same crispy chicken feeling but with fewer of the unwanted health negatives.

2. French Fries

Similar to fried chicken, french fries should be at the top of your do-not-eat list when taking Ozempic. French fries are notoriously greasy and are high in fat. Besides worsening side effects from the medicine, high-fat and greasy foods are bad for people suffering from type 2 diabetes in general. These foods spike blood sugar levels and leave them high over time because the fat takes longer to digest.

What to Eat Instead: Sweet Potato Fries

If you feel like you are missing out on the deliciousness of french fries, try to make the healthier alternative at home. Sweet potato fries! Clean and slice your sweet potatoes. Then, throw them in the oven with some salt, pepper, paprika, and a little olive oil. Bake them until they become your desired consistency. Making them at home allows you to control the amount of oil, so you can ensure that these fries are as healthy as can be.

3. Pizza

Pizza is not the healthiest food option for anyone, but especially not for someone who is taking Ozempic. The amount of grease on a typical pie is enough to cause stomach upset for anyone. A typical large pepperoni pizza contains about 13 grams of fat per slice. Also, out of the 324 calories you get in a slice of pizza, 117 of those are from fat. Not a good combination for someone who needs to be wary of creating stomach issues.

What to Eat Instead: Portobello Mushroom Pizza

This low-calorie and low-fat option is a great substitute for traditional pizza. Season your portabella mushroom cap and use it as the base for your pizza. Then create the pizza of your choosing, tomato sauce or pesto, with cheese and meats. Bake your vegetable pizza and enjoy its flavor and health benefits.

4. Potato Chips

Potato chips are highly processed foods that contain large amounts of sodium and sugar. Despite not having a sweet flavor, your body converts this starchy food into sugar in the body. This can lead to a rise in blood sugar levels and can increase inflammation in the body.

What to Eat Instead: Vegetables and Hummus

Feel like you're still eating chips and dip but without all of the unhealthy additives. Grab some raw cucumber, celery, and other veggies and pair them with a delicious hummus. This substitute is not only type 2 diabetes-friendly but should be easier on your gut, lessening the likelihood of unwanted side effects from the Ozempic.

5. Cheeseburger and Red Meats

A nice juicy cheeseburger is juicy because of its high-fat content and grease. Additionally, red meats are also one of the fattier meats available. As previously discussed greasy and high-fat foods are not ideal for someone with type 2 diabetes or someone on Ozempic. If you are going to eat red meat, opt for low-fat options.

What to Eat Instead: Chicken Burgers or Bison Patties

If you are still craving a burger but want to limit some of the fat of the red meat, opt for a chicken burger. Just ensure that your chicken is cooked healthily. For example, a fried chicken sandwich would not be a proper substitute. However, a baked chicken sandwich would be better. Also, if you still want the flavor of red meat but want less fat opt for bison, it is leaner than beef.

6. Doughnuts

When taking Ozempic, you want to avoid foods that contain added sugars. That is because foods with a lot of sugar can cause blood sugar levels to spike and can work against your Ozempic medication. Think of eating sugary foods as counteracting what your medication is trying to do for you. Additionally, sugary foods can lead to weight gain which can be problematic for people with type 2 diabetes.

What to Eat Instead: Overnight Oats

If you can't curb that sugar craving try to make some overnight oats. Add oats, fresh fruit of your choice, and garnishes such as honey and seeds. The natural sugars in this are a much better alternative to the ultra-processed and added sugars in the doughnut but should still curb your sweet tooth.

7. Ice Cream

Ice cream is a food to avoid on Ozempic for many reasons. Firstly, it is high in sugar which we have already mentioned is bad for those taking Ozempic. Additionally, ice cream is considered a high-fat dairy product. High-fat dairy products can cause additional gastrointestinal upset for someone taking Ozempic.

What to Eat Instead: Sorbet

If you have a hankering for ice cream that you just can't shake, try substituting it with sorbet. If purchasing one from the store, be sure to select one that has little sugar so that it fits with the health guidelines recommended for the diet of type 2 diabetes. Or you could do one better and make your own at home. You can make your own lemon sorbet by peeling 3 lemons and adding them to a blender. Add 1/4 cup maple syrup and a can of coconut milk to the blender as well. Blend thoroughly and pour into an ice cube tray. Once those freeze blend them again and you now have homemade sorbet.

8. Cake, Cookies, Candy, and Other Sweets

The list of sweets that you shouldn't eat can go on and on, but cake, cookies, and candy are top of the list. All delicious but very high in their sugar content these goods are not so good for your body. Weight gain, gastrointestinal upset, and blood sugar spikes are some of the negative side effects of enjoying these treats.

What to Eat Instead: Sweet Berry Bowl

All of the above things have one thing in common, they are sweet. Instead of indulging in those foods that make your tongue happy but your body sad, why not indulge in something delicious and nutritious? Grab some strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, and raspberries, and throw them in a bowl. Squeeze half of a lemon onto them and drizzle honey on top. You now have a delicious sweet bowl that tastes like dessert with none of the harmful ingredients.

9. Soda or Sweetened Drinks

Sweets are not only things you eat but also things you drink. Similar to the cookies and cake, soda and sweetened drinks are on the avoid list as well. Drinks like soda, sports drinks, iced teas, and even flavored waters are packed full of added sugar and negative consequences.

What to Drink Instead: Coconut Water or Herbal Teas

Coconut water is a great option if plain water is not your favorite. It is a naturally sweeter option but without any harmful added sugars. Additionally, herbal teas are a great substitute as well. If you are ever unsure, always contact your doctor to ensure that no specific herbs would interact with your medication.

10. White Refined Carbohydrates

Examples of this food to avoid on Ozempic include white bread, white rice, and white flour. While carbohydrates can be beneficial for you, ultra-processed carbohydrates are not. They often lack fiber and many vitamins that your body needs. Additionally, they will raise your blood sugar, making it difficult for Ozempic to do its job properly.

What to Eat Instead: Healthy Carbohydrates

If you want to still include carbohydrates in your diet, try to substitute the ultra-processed, white refined ones for healthier options. For example, sourdough bread, brown rice, or whole wheat flour.

11. Starchy Vegetables

Another food to avoid on Ozempic is starchy vegetables. Starchy vegetables include things such as potatoes, corn, carrots, peas, parsnips, and beets. Similar to a lot of foods on this list, starchy vegetables are not the best for those taking Ozempic because they have a high glycemic index. This means they raise your blood sugar quickly.

What to Eat Instead: Non-Starchy Vegetables

When you get a craving for a vegetable, try one of these instead: Spinach, asparagus, bean sprouts, cucumber, leeks, or heart of palm.

12. Peanut Butter

Although this is a great choice for a small snack, too much peanut butter could be an issue for someone taking Ozempic. That is because of peanut butter's high-fat content. The high-fat content could cause people to have stomach upset. This happens because high-fat foods are slower to digest and stay in the stomach longer. The longer food remains in the stomach, the more likely the person is to experience nausea or discomfort.

What to Eat Instead: Cut Back on Dose

You don't need to substitute this out of your diet, you just need to limit the dose in which you consume it. Instead of having a heavy peanut butter and jelly sandwich try dipping your celery into it instead.

13. Cruciferous Veggies

In addition to limiting your starchy vegetables, you will also want to limit your cruciferous vegetables. Cruciferous vegetables include cauliflower, broccoli, brussels sprouts, kale, and more. The reason for this is that cruciferous vegetables are gas-producing and can cause GI side effects. Couple that with the side effects that Ozempic may cause and it just further aggravates the situation.

What to Eat Instead: Non-Cruciferous Veggies

Try swapping out your cruciferous veggies for some that are non-cruciferous. Non-curiferous veggies include vegetables like spinach, lettuce, green beans, and zucchini.

14. Spicy Foods

Spicy foods should be limited when taking Ozempic because of their connection with acid reflux. If you already have a predisposition to acid reflux then you should avoid spicy foods entirely. If you do not have acid reflux, you may consume spice in limited doses but be aware that they can delay gastric emptying and can cause GI disturbances.

What to Eat Instead: Swap the Spice

Oftentimes people crave spice because they want flavor. Instead of adding spice, focus on adding flavor to your dishes. You can add fresh or dried herbs or flavored oils and seasonings that don't have spicy bases. Examples can include basil, thyme, herb olive oils, and more.

15. Processed Foods

It is best to avoid any processed foods when taking Ozempic. Processed foods include but are not limited to, frozen meals, bottled salad dressings, and snack bars. Processed foods often contain hidden sugars, fats, and other nutritional issues that can cause gastric upset when consuming them.

What to Eat Instead: Foods From the Earth

A great way to think about it is if man made it don't eat it. If it came from the Earth eat it. Substitute processed foods with natural alternatives. For example, instead of a bottled salad dressing, try dressing your salad with citrus and salt or with fresh vinegar and oil.

16. Alcohol

As is the case with many other medications, it is best to avoid alcohol when taking Ozempic. Alcohol causes inflammation and irritates the stomach. Additionally, Ozempic gives alcohol more time to linger in your stomach. Thus providing it more chance to cause upset. Also, combining alcohol and your medication increases your chances of developing low blood sugar.

What to Drink Instead: Mocktails

If you want to feel like you're cheating with a delicious treat, but don't want the negative side effects try a mocktail. Opt for 100% natural fruit juice, some seltzer water, and some fresh fruit. Combine them in a fancy wine glass with some ice and you now have a naturally sweetened mocktail!

Summary of Foods to Avoid When Taking Ozempic

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Sugar has been a hot-button topic in kitchens across America for years. Parents often try to avoid feeding it to their children to prevent them from experiencing that oh-so-famous sugar rush. Additionally, a high sugar intake has been connected to a myriad of health issues. Including increased risks for negative physiological outcomes, increased blood cholesterol, obesity, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes. While many people do their best to avoid common culprits of sugar such as candy or soda, they fail to notice that sugar is hiding in the foods they consume every day. So how can you tell which foods are high in sugar? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Click through the gallery as we provide a list of the 25 foods to avoid that are surprisingly high in sugar.

1. Yogurt

While yogurt is classified as a healthy food it often contains a lot of hidden sugars. Low-fat and flavored yogurt in particular often have increased sugar amounts to help enhance the flavor. A single cup oflow-fat yogurt can contain over 45 grams of sugar. Next time you grab your favorite yogurt, peek at the nutrition label.

2. Canned Soup

Wait I thought we were talking about sugar, not sodium? That’s right canned soup contains high levels of sodium and sugar. Specific soups, such as tomato, have higher levels to help reduce the acidity of some of its ingredients. One cup of canned tomato soup can have up to 20 grams of sugar.

3. Barbecue Sauce

You may want to think again before marinating your chicken in this sauce. Around 33% of the weight of this sauce is pure sugar. While it may make the sauce taste great, it is not great for your body.

4. Salad Dressing

While it can be tempting to spice up your spinach it can also be detrimental to your health. Popular dressings that are high in sugar include raspberry vinaigrette, honey mustard, sweet Italian, and French dressing. Additionally, light and fat-free varieties tend to be the highest in added sugar.

5. Breakfast Cereal

While some of these may seem like obvious sugar-filled choices, such as Coco Pops or Frosted Flakes, sugars are hiding even in the choices you think are healthy. For example, cereals like Honey Nut Cheerios contain 12 grams of added sugar per 1-cup serving. Also, Raisin Bran Crunch contains 19 grams of sugar per 1-cup serving.

6. Ketchup

While it may not taste sweet as you lather your hot dog with it, be aware that ketchup is one of the most sugary condiments out there. In a 20oz bottle, there is two-thirds of a cup of sugar. That is 4 grams of sugar per tablespoon.

7. Coffee

Next time you grab your caffeine fill, think about all the potential additives. If you are getting your coffee from large chains such as Starbucks be aware that there is close to around 11 teaspoons of added sugar in your drink. For a healthier alternative, try to make your coffee and drink it black.

8. Tomato Sauce

This next food that is high in sugar probably does not surprise you. Seeing as tomato soup and ketchup were both high in sugar, it is no shock that tomato sauce is the same. Sugar helps cut down on the acidity in the tomatoes and allows the jar to stay fresh for longer. Natural sugars here are not the problem, rather it is the corn syrup and added sugars.

9. Hoisin Sauce

Did you know that a typical small jar of hoisin sauce contains around 30 teaspoons of added sugar? If you want to avoid all that sugar and the potential health risks associated with it you can substitute soy sauce instead.

10. Peanut butter

Have no fear, this high-protein snack is still an acceptable treat but beware of the reduced-fat versions that are available. A majority of those options contain high amounts of added sugar to compensate for the loss in flavor as a result of lessing the fat content. So when picking your peanut butter, go for the real deal.

11. Fruit Juice

Despite the title, many of these juices have way more flavoring than just natural fruit flavoring. Food coloring, high fructose corn syrup, added sugars, and even heavy metals are just some of the additives in many fruit juices. When shopping, choose options that say 100% whole fruit juice.

12. Granola Bars

While many people reach for this as a healthy breakfast alternative, be warned. Certain brands contain 10 grams or more of sugar per bar. Some of these brands include Nature Valley, Kellogg’s, and Clif Bars. Try to avoid bars that have sugar listed in their top three ingredients.

13. Teriyaki Sauce

Although it is perfect for stirfry, it may not be perfect for your health. Each tablespoon of teriyaki sauce contains 2.2 grams of sugar. While exact amounts may vary by brand, be aware that teriyaki sauce is a highly sweetened condiment.

14. Flavored Milk

Although chocolate and strawberry milk may be more exciting to the taste buds, they are more taxing on your body. Plain fat-free milk has about 12 grams of sugar compared to chocolate milk, which has about 25 grams.

15. Sports Drinks

Although they are praised for their ability to replace electrolytes, they are also placing high amounts of sugar in your body. Sports drinks contain high amounts of sugar because those sugars can be quickly absorbed and used for energy by the athletes. A standard 20-ounce bottle contains 32.5 grams of added sugars.

16. Dried Fruit

While fruit contains natural sugars, dried fruit is often high in added sugars such as cane sugar or corn syrup. This is done to help enhance flavor and is often highest in dried fruits that are naturally tart.

17. Coleslaw

You may be thinking, “But coleslaw is just shredded vegetables!” While you are correct, there is also a large amount of added sugars here. The mayonnaise is the main culprit behind it. One tablespoon of store-bought coleslaw typically contains 4 grams of sugar.

18. Iced Tea

While this one may not be as big of a surprise, many people are still shocked to learn just how much sugar is truly in their glass of iced tea. Most commercial iced teas will contain around 35 grams of sugar for a 12-ounce can.

19. Oatmeal

Often recommended as a great source of fiber, oatmeal is also a great source of sugar. Many of the brands that are labeled as healthy contain high amounts of added sugars. Brands such as Quaker Instant Oatmeal, Nature’s Path, and 365 may surprise you with their ingredients.

20. Canned fruit

In addition to the natural sugars that fruit contains, canned fruits are peeled and preserved in sugary syrup. In addition to covering the fruit in syrup, it also strips it of its Vitamin C. According to Food Network, one-half cup of canned pears has 12 grams of sugar.

21. Baked Beans

Although they may not taste sweet, a can of baked beans is loaded with sugar. One cup of baked beans has around five teaspoons of sugar in it. Sugar and salt are added to the beans for flavor and as a preservative.

22. Premade Smoothies

If you make your own smoothie at home out of fresh fruit and plain yogurt there is no need to worry. However, if you are buying your smoothie from a commercial space be aware that there are often additives in them. Commercial stores often add ice cream, syrup, or additional sugar to enhance the flavors of their smoothies.

23. Bread

When speaking of bread that contains sugars, we are focusing mostly only highly processed breads. Some breads that are high in sugar include white bread, brown sugar cinnamon bread, and Hawaiian bread.

24. Flavored Water

What!? Even water can have sugar? If you are drinking flavored water and are thinking how delicious it tastes, the reason may be a heaping dose of sugar. Oftentimes things are marketed with health words so people don’t think to read the labels. A common example of this is Vitaminwater. Due to the label, people see it as healthy because it contains vitamins, and they are unaware of the high sugar content it contains.

25. Jam

Although jam comes from fruit, which has natural sugars, they are high in additive sugars as well. To help keep it fresh tons of sugar and acid are added to it. A can of jam is about 60 percent sugar, so the next time you add some to your piece of bread keep that in mind.

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While Vancouver is loved by many tourists for its incredible scenery and various activities, it is also home to a plethora of schools. The public schools cover 58 square miles in Clark County and the standard of education is considered excellent. With multiple schools in the area, both public and independent, some of them are larger than others. In this article, we will be discussing the largest schools in Vancouver today. We will be focusing solely on public schools. The ratings will be based on the population of each school. 

1. Sir Winston Churchill Secondary School – 2,055 

As one of the largest schools in Vancouver, Sir Winston Churchill Secondary School is one of three International Baccalaureat schools in the area. Additionally, it is one of three French Immersion secondary schools in Vancouver. With a student population of 2,055, it is a very popular school choice. With a diverse student population, this school offers students who were born in over 50 different countries. Additionally, it is one of only two District Autism Resource Programs. Also, it offers courses and departments in Technology, Home Economics, Visual and Performing Arts, Business Education, and more. 

2. Killarney Secondary School – 2,000

This school, located in Vancouver, is the largest secondary school by area. However, its student population is approximately 2,000 students. This school, grades 8-12, places emphasis on math and science. Additionally, it has a well-known Fine Arts Program. They have a teaching staff of 167 and offer a plethora of extracurricular activities. 

3. Vancouver Technical Secondary School – 1,650 

This school is often referred to as Van Tech and offers Advanced Placement, Flex Humanities, French Immersion, and other programs to its students. Initially, when it opened in 1916, it was a boys-only school. As the school expanded and new buildings were added things changed. Girls were admitted to the school in 1940 and were given their own wing in the school. Vancouver Technical offers two Mini School Programs. Those programs include Summit and Flex Humanities. Summit is a five-year program that focuses on enhancing the four academic courses. Flex Humanities focuses on integrating Philosophy, World Literature, History, Fine Arts, Film and Media Studies, and Integrated Arts and Technology. 

4. David Thompson Secondary School – 1,451

Located in Central Vancouver, this secondary school opened in 1958. It is located between Killarney Secondary School and Sir Winston Churchill Secondary School. The school is full of rich history, inspired by David Thompson. David was a geographer, surveyor, explorer, and fur trader. His maps and journals are a primary source of Candian history. Students in this school excel in Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, and English. 

5. Eric Hamber Secondary School – 1,405 

This public secondary school is located in the South Cambie neighborhood. It has a high success rate with about 70 percent of its seniors graduating with honors. As one of the largest schools in Vancouver, this secondary school was named after Eric Hamber. Eric was an athlete, a businessman, and an honorable member of the community. The school honors him with their school colors, maroon, and light blue. 

6. Gladstone Secondary School – 1,340 

This large school in Vancouver gets its name from the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, William Ewart Gladstone. Mr. Gladstone was Prime Minister four times between the years of 1868 and 1894. The property on which the school is built used to be an old farm, but was designated to become a school in the 1920s. However, due to the depression, construction did not start until 1949. With a school motto of “By Faith and By Courage,” students here are encouraged to achieve excellence. 

7. Kitsilano Secondary School – 1,330 

This school has been described as the heart of the neighborhood and has been revered for constantly adapting to the times. Kitsilano offers several district programs such as French immersion as well as on-site pre-employment. Additionally, it offers Advanced Placement Programs to its students. Besides being known for offering great education to its students, Kitsalon is also known for the various films that were shot there such as “The Santa Claus 2” and “Jump Street.” 

8. Lord Byng Secondary School – 1,268 

This school opened in 1925 and is now a public secondary school serving grades 8-12. This school offers excellent programs in performance and visual arts programming. Additionally, it offers computer sciences, traditional academic programs, and the Byng Arts Mini School Program. This is a program that places the student’s artistic development at the forefront of their education. Students in this program typically specialize in Visual Arts, Band, Strings, or Theater. 

9. Magee Secondary School – 1,199 

This large secondary school in Vancouver follows the traditional BC high school curriculum. This means offering courses in English, Math, Social Studies, and Science. Also, language courses are offered in Japanese, French, and Spanish. This school prides itself on finding strength in diversity and fostering a caring school community. 

10. Sir Charles Tupper Secondary School – 1,160 

This school opened in 1959 and originally only served grades 7, 8, and 9. Now, it serves grades 8-12 and has a student population of 1,160 students. They included these additional grades by 1965. While there is some dark history in past years at the school, the new school culture is much more uplifting. Their school motto of ROARS, standing for Respect, Ownership, Attitude, Responsibility, and Safety, shows the school's core values. In addition to traditional school programs, Tupper also offers Mini School and Tupper Tech programs. 

11. John Oliver Secondary School – 1,150 

Beginning in 1912, this secondary school is full of rich history. This school is a great demonstration of the changes to the education system in the 20th century. It offers a comprehensive curriculum, including but not limited to STEM programs. Additionally, this school aims to enhance the intellectual, emotional, and physical potential of all students who attend. 

12. Windermere Community Secondary School – 1,009 

This large secondary school in Vancouver offers a diverse student population. With 32 languages spoken by students and a population ranging from over 40 different countries. This school is dedicated to enhancing students and providing them with a challenging and safe learning environment. With a student population of 1,009, it is no wonder why it makes it onto the largest schools in Vancouver list.

Public Schools In Vancouver: A-K

Below is a table that showcases the public schools in Vancouver, their grade levels, and their student population. It is sorted alphabetically.

Public Schools In Vancouver: L-S

Public Schools In Vancouver: T

Public Schools In Vancouver: U-Z

The image featured at the top of this post is ©Engel Ching/Shutterstock.com.

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If you are soon expecting a baby and you and your partner struggling to find a name, we have just the article for you. Popular baby names often change for various reasons. Those reasons range from gender to the religious meaning of the name. Additionally, pop culture and location can have an impact on the most popular names. In this article, we will be focusing on popular baby names in Arkansas. We will cover Arkansas' top baby names in the year 2023, and the meaning behind each of them. At the end of the article, you can find a comprehensive list of even more popular baby names in Arkansas.

1. Olivia

In 2023, Arkansas' top baby name was Olivia. Similar to Oklahoma, this name ranked number one on both the top baby girl names and the top names overall in Arkansas. Olivia is of English origin and it means olive tree and peace. This name has held its high rank since 2021, when it had 181 babies born with this name. In 2023, baby experts predict that 157 babies will have this name. Currently, there are a total of 507,000 people in the United States, since 1880, that have or have had the first name of Olivia.

2. Liam

While this name ranked first on Arkansas' top baby names for boys, it ranks second on the top baby names overall. Liam comes from Irish descent and it means protector and warrior, or determined guardian. In 2021, it tied with the second most popular baby boy name in Arkansas, Oliver. Both of these names had 160 babies with that name in that year. However, in 2023 Liam is predicted to have a slightly higher outcome. In addition to being popular in this state, Liam is a popular name all around. In 2021 it was the number-one baby boy name across the nation, and is predicted to be again in 2023.

3. Oliver

Oliver is ranked third on both Arkansas's top baby names and the top baby names nationwide. Oliver comes from Latin origin and has the same meaning as the female name Olivia. Although it is very popular, its popularity is estimated to drop slightly in 2023. In 2021, there were 160 babies given this name, and in 2023 experts estimate that only 152 will be given this name. Regardless, it still ranks very highly and is a popular choice of baby name.

4. Elijah

Although the name Elijah has dropped slightly to the number five spot in the nation's most popular baby names, it holds strong on Arkansas's list. Coming in at the number three spot for boy's names and number four spot overall, this is definitely a common choice. Elijah is of Hebrew origin and means “The Lord is my God.” Experts predict that 133 babies born in 2023 will have this name.

5. Noah

This popular, biblical name comes from Hebrew origin and is derived from the biblical figure Noah. It comes from the word “nuach” meaning “rest” or “repose”. Not only is it a common name choice in Arkansas but also across the United States. It spent 5 years as the number one boy name in the United States, and still sits highly ranked at the number two spot in 2023.

6. Amelia

While boy names have been dominating Arkansas's top baby names, Amelia scores another point for the female names. Ranked as the third most popular girl name in 2021, Amelia has now claimed the number two spot on the girl's top baby names. This name is Old Norse in origin and it means industrious or hardworking. In addition to its high ranking in Arkansas, it also places high nationwide. In 2023 it sat at the second spot of popular girl names in the country.

7. William

With over 4.2 million people having this as their first name since 1880, it is clear to see that William earns its spot on Arkansas's top baby names. William has Germanic roots and has a combination meaning of desire and protector. Therefore people often say it means resolute protector. This name ranks fifth in boy names in Arkansas and seventh in boy names in the entire county. It has slowly declined from its number six spot in the national ranking in 2021.

8. Asher

Although it has dropped down a spot on the list since 2021, Asher still makes it on the list of Arkansas's top baby names. Predicted to have 123 new babies with this name in 2023, it doesn't seem like there will be any shortages of Ashers in the world. The name Asher has Hebrew origins and is slowly gaining popularity as a gender-neutral name. Its meanings are blessed, happy, and Ash tree. This name is more specific to Arkansas and does not make it on the top ten most popular baby names in the nation.

9. Hudson

Jumping up a spot since 2021, Hudson is a name that is growing in popularity in Arkansas. More specific to the local area, this name now has 83,000 people that have it as their first name since 1880. This name just recently gained popularity in the United States, becoming a first name only about 30-40 years ago. It has an English origin and means son of heart, spirit, and mind. Similar to Asher, it does not make it on the nation's list of most popular baby names.

10. James

Although this name is gaining popularity nationwide, it is slowly on the decline in Arkansas. It sits at fourth most popular boy name in the nation, but has dropped to number eight on Arkansas's list. Regardless, experts still predict at least 112 babies born in 2023 to be named James. Additionally, there are 5.2 million people in the United States since 1880 who have the first name James. It has both Hebrew and Latin origins and means he who shall follow and protect. People also say it means supplanter and “May God protect.”

Top 50 Boy Names of the Past 5 Years in Arkansas

• Elijah
• William
• Liam
• Noah
• Oliver
• James
• Wyatt
• Asher
• Mason
• John
• Jackson
• Samuel
• Grayson
• Benjamin
• Henry
• Carter
• Hudson
• Jackson
• Luke
• Aiden
• Logan
• Michael
• Levi
• Gabriel
• Jacob
• Maverick
• Lincoln
• Lucas
• Kingston
• Owen
• Ethan
• Christopher
• Alexander
• Sawyer
• Jack
• Isaiah
• Easton
• David
• Thomas
• Waylon
• Issac
• Josiah
• Joseph
• Cooper
• Joshua
• Braxton
• Daniel
• Jayden
• Bentley
• Charles

Top 50 Girl Names of the Past 5 Years in Arkansas

• Olivia
• Emma
• Ava
• Amelia
• Harper
• Paisley
• Charolette
• Sophia
• Isabella
• Evelyn
• Elizabeth
• Abigail
• Ella
• Avery
• Mia
• Williow
• Scarlett
• Layla
• Addison
• Hazel
• Eleanor
• Brooklyn
• Lillian
• Ellie
• Nova
• Madison
• Emily
• Nora
• Aubrey
• Kinsley
• Everly
• Caroline
• Emery
• Zoey
• Aurora
• Stella
• Riley
• Lily
• Luna
• Aria
• Chloe
• Serenity
• Natalie
• Hadley
• Piper
• Blakely
• Anna
• Everleigh
• Kennedy
• Ivy

The image featured at the top of this post is ©Miramiska/Shutterstock.com.

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When having a child, name selection is one of the keystone components of the process. Baby experts even call it the most important decision people make as first-time parents. Oftentimes, baby names differ depending on various factors. Some factors that include the popularity of a name are gender, location, religious or spiritual meaning of the name, and pop culture. In the United States, names often vary by region. The Southwest Region is united by climate, history, and culture. In this article, we will be doing a deep dive into one of those states and their popular baby names. Let’s discover Oklahoma’s top baby names in 2023. 

1. Olivia 

The most popular baby name in Oklahoma in 2023 was Olivia. Ranking not only number one on the popular girl names but also higher than any of the popular boy names, Olivia is top of the list. The name Olivia is of English origin and 507,000 people in the United States have had it or still have it as their first name since 1880. A feminine alternative to the popular boy’s name of Oliver, Olivia means “olive branch.” 

Not only is Olivia a popular name in Oklahoma, but it is also popular across the United States in general. It is ranked No. 63 on the list of most popular female names in the country. In addition to America, it is also a popular name in Britain, Australia, and Canada. 

2. Liam 

On the list of most popular baby names in Oklahoma for 2023, Liam ranked number one. Liam comes from Irish origin and means protector and warrior. In 2021 there were 223 boys named Liam in Oklahoma. The predicted outcome for 2023 has gone up to 228. Liam has been one of the fastest-rising Irish names in the United States. However, while it may rank 2nd on the Oklahoma list, in terms of popular boy names in the U.S. overall, it ranks No. 133. 

While that may seem like a low rank, rest assured to get to that 133 number spot, that means that since 1880 there have been 274,000 people with this name.

3. Oliver 

Ranked second on the boy's list, Oliver is the third most popular name overall in Oklahoma in 2023. Oliver comes from Latin descent and is a very common first name in the United States. Since 1880 there have been over 210,000 people with Oliver as their first name. Similarly to Olivia, Oliver means “olive tree” and “ancestor’s descendants.” The olive tree has been associated with peace and dignity, giving this name a lot of meaning behind it. 

Additionally, this name ranks fairly high overall as it reaches No. 42 on the list of most popular boy names in the United States.

4. Amelia 

This name has maintained popularity from 2021 through 2023. Ranked as the second most popular female name in Oklahoma, it is a very common choice. Amelia is German in origin and it means “industrious” or “hardworking”. In Hebrew, it means “Work of God.” It currently sits at No. 70 on the most popular girl's names in the United States with around 231,000 people having it as a first name. 

5. Elijah 

The name Elijah rose in popularity in 2023. Now reaching the third rank in most popular boy names in Oklahoma in 2023. Also, it ranks fourth most popular baby name in Oklahoma overall. Additionally, it is popular across the United States at large. While it is lower on the list at number 100, that still leaves around 334,00 people with Elijah as their first name. Elijah is of Hebrew origin and is a popular boy’s name that means “Yahweh is my God.” Yahweh is an ancient Hebrew name for God. This is a name that holds much sway and significance in the biblical realm.

6. Noah 

Although Noah has moved down slightly on the list of Oklahoma’s top baby names, it still ranks high in 2023. Noah ranks fourth on the list of boy names, and sixth overall in Oklahoma. Additionally, it also does well overall in the United States. Noah spent 5 years as the number one boy name in the United States. Also, since 1880 there have been around 453,000 people with Noah as their first name. What could such a popular name signify? 

Noah comes from Hebrew origin and is derived from the biblical figure Noah. It comes from the word “nuach” meaning “rest” or “repose”. Although it is a popular boy name, Noah can be used as a gender-neutral name and is a popular choice across various cultures. 

7. Charlotte

Charlotte is a very popular girl’s name in Oklahoma. Although it ranks No. 8 on the top baby names of Oklahoma, it ranks No. 3 on the list of most popular girl names in the state. This name is of French origin and means “free man” or “petite” and is the feminine version of the name Charles. Charles was a popular choice for royal boys, so the feminine version was then often given to royal girls. 

Charlotte also ranks decently across the United States as a whole. Coming in at No. 87 with over 402,000 people having it as a first name. 

8. Ava

Ranking at No.8 on Oklahoma’s top baby names of 2023 is Ava. While this name ranks eighth on the list overall, it ranks No.4 on the top girl baby names in Oklahoma. It has slightly increased in popularity, moving up from No. 5 in 2021. Ava is unique in that it has multiple origins. One of those origins is Latin, and that origin comes from the Latin word avis, meaning “bird” or “birdlike”. However, certain baby name experts also believe that it has Hebrew and Persian descent as well. In Hebrew, it may connect to Eva, derived from Havva which means “life.” Additionally, in the Persian language, it is close to the name Āvā, meaning “voice” or “sound.” 

Ranking slightly lower on the list of top names in the United States, Ava comes in at the number 125 spot. Even with this lower ranking, that leaves 306,000 people with this as their first name.

9. Asher 

Something that makes Asher special among Oklahoma’s top baby names is that it is unique to Oklahoma. While ranked No. 5 on Oklahoma’s list it is not predicted to be in the national top 10 boys names of 2023. Asher also has Hebrew origin and means “happy” and “blessed”. This name from the Old Testament used to be reserved for just boys but has become more gender-neutral in recent years. 

In addition to gaining popularity in the United States, this name is also gaining popularity in New Zealand as well. 

10. Eleanor 

Similarly to Asher, Eleanor is another name that is more prominent in Oklahoma. Popularity with this name increased in the last couple of years. In 2021, it ranked No. 8 on the most popular girls' names in Oklahoma, and now it is ranked at No.5. Additionally, it is now No.10 overall in Oklahoma’s top baby names with around 309,000 people having this as their first name. 

Eleanor has Greek and French origins and it means “light-hearted” and “shining light.” This is a name that is most commonly given to girls. One of the most famous Eleanor was Eleanor Roosevelt, the first lady, and wife of President Franklin D. Roosevelt.

30 Most Popular and Unique Boy Names in Oklahoma in 2023

• Loyd
• Doyle
• Billy
• Jackie
• Jimmie
• Billie
• Bill
• Tommy
• Jimmy
• Bobby
• Delbert
• Bob
• Cecil
• Virgil
• Braden
• Floyd
• Don
• Junior
• Donnie
• Dakota
• Chance
• Homer
• Rickey
• Lonnie
• Jerry
• Joe
• Glen
• Ronnie
• Dalton
• Jim

30 Most Popular and Unique Girl Names in Oklahoma in 2023

• Ladonna
• Imogene
• Opal
• Lorene
• Billie
• Jewell
• Patsy
• Melba
• Wanda
• Velma
• Reba
• Wilma
• Darla
• Jewel
• Glenda
• Jana
• Geneva
• Juanita
• Bobbie
• Freda
• Misty
• Erma
• Shelly
• Maxine
• Ruby
• Margie
• Norma
• Jo
• Lola
• Faye

The image featured at the top of this post is ©Minnie Zhou / Unsplash.

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The Hawaiian Islands are a very popular destination for traveling. Known for their natural beauty of active volcanoes, wildlife refuges, and scenic beaches it is no wonder that people flock here year-round for some rest and relaxation. Hawaii also has an abundance of wildlife, including its official aquatic mammal, the humpback whale. These islands range from 5.1 million years old to .7 million years old. The youngest of the islands is the Big Island, which is also referred to as Hawaii. In this article, we are going to discuss some unusual things to do in Hawaii. If you want to explore this beautiful destination but want to avoid all of the tourist hotspots, stick around as we uncover some hidden gems that this island has to offer.

What is Hawaii? 

When people say Hawaii, it can be confusing as to which island they are referring to. Is Hawaii all of the islands or just one? The state recognizes 137 islands, however out of that 137 there are eight major islands that people know of.

 Although these eight are known, four of these islands are more frequently visited and the best known by the majority of people. Those four islands are the largest of the eight known islands, Hawaii, O'ahu, Kaua'i, and Maui. In this article, when we refer to Hawaii, we are specifically speaking of the Big Island, not all of the Hawaiian Islands.

Unusual Things to Do in Hawaii

Hawaii is the third most popular choice of island by visitors. With over 1.6 million travelers annually, there is no shortage of activities to enjoy. Tourists rave about the perfect weather, abundant shopping, and scenic beaches that this island has to offer. Popular activities when visiting include ziplining, beachgoing, and visiting volcanoes. If you want to take a step back from the more popular tourist destinations, here are ten unusual things to do while in Hawaii. Some of these activities are rare, some feature hidden gems, and some are just things you may not have expected in this incredible paradise, let's dive in!

1. Sunshine Helicopters Kohala Coast Waterfalls and Waipio Valley Flight

This helicopter ride takes you high in the sky to witness the stunning views of the Kohala mountains. Experience incredible sights of cascading waterfalls, ocean cliffs, and hidden valleys of Waipio, Waimanu, and Pololu. This tour allows you to see points that you would not be able to access on the ground. Your flight will be between 40-45 minutes, but the duration of the entire tour from start to finish will be between 1.5-3 hours, depending on your pick-up location and the package you select. It is available all day for booking and can be wheelchair accessible, providing those who may not be able to do the nature hikes with a chance to still witness these incredible views of the lush, tropical rainforests.

2. Mauna Kea Stargazing Tour Experience with Free Professional Photos-With Epic Tours

We have all gone out at night and looked up at the stars. While we may call that stargazing, it is not like this incredible experience. While most people venture out during the day, this unique tour shows you the magnificent beauty that Hawaii can offer you at night. This is a 2-2.5 hour tour that is rated by reviewers as a must-do experience. This tour is between 7:30 p.m. and 10:30 p.m., with start times varying to give you the highest potential to witness the best stargazing experience possible.

The experience will take you up the remote slopes of either Mauna Kea or Mauna Loa. Mauna Kea is an inactive volcano on the Big Island with a peak of 13,804 feet above sea level. Mauna Loa is its shorter but larger neighbor. This active volcano is known as “Long Mountain” and is 13,680 feet above sea level. This tour is led by an expert astrophotographer, and incredible photos are included in your experience. See nebulas, galaxies, and the Milky Way from the beauty of the slopes and have it all captured with stunning, professional photos.

3. Atlantis Kona Submarine Tour and Undersea Adventure

Talk about an unusual thing to do in Hawaii! Most people experience Hawaii's ocean life by visiting a beach or embarking on a snorkel cruise. Few people get to see it from underneath the depths of the waves. In Kona, there is a unique 45-minute experience that allows you to dive 100 feet below the surface in a recreational submarine. Admire the beauty of the ocean and get a chance to see sharks, sea turtles, stingrays, eels, and a variety of fish. They offer daily departures from Kailua-Kona pier and are a great family activity. Experience sunken ships, coral reefs, and underwater pyramid structures on your next family vacation.

4. Visit a Farmers Market

While visiting a farmers market may seem like the last thing on your list on a vacation, it can be a unique experience. The Hilo Farmers Market, located in Hilo, Hawaii, is a fantastic way for you and your family to encounter locally-grown produce. It is a great place to try new and exciting foods that are specific to the area. Additionally, on certain days they have crafts made by locals, food truck vendors, and flowers. There are a variety of things to explore and purchase here. It is a great family-friendly activity that can be enjoyable, and leisurely, and expose you to new things traditional to Hawaiian culture.

5. Do a Manta Ray Tour

While many people know of Hawaii's incredible whale-watching opportunities, less know about their incredible manta ray tours. While there are a variety of tours, some of the most popular ones take place in Kona, Hawaii. In this tour, you take a short cruise to the manta site and you enjoy the sunset from the boat. Once the sun dips below the horizon, you will put on your snorkel gear and get into the water to swim with giant manta rays. All necessary snorkeling gear, as well as light refreshments, will be provided on this tour. The tour takes about two and a half hours from start to finish and is one that you will not likely forget. These gentle giants can reach lengths of up to 23 feet and weigh up to 5,300 pounds! Imagine coming so close to such an incredible creature.

6. Visit Papakōkea Green Sand Beach

While visiting a beach may not seem like an unusual activity, visiting a beach with green sand is definitely an unusual thing to do in Hawaii. This beach is one of four green sand beaches in the world. When visiting this beach, it is best to take a local shuttle as the various paths down to it can be a bit tricky. The green sand of this beach is created by a common mineral on the island called olivine. While swimming at this beach is possible, it is not always advised. The surf can be quite strong and there is no lifeguard. Visiting this beach is more for the beautiful hike and taking in the incredible scenery of this unique beach. Additionally, there are no facilities here, so plan and try to leave it as untouched as before you got there.

7. Take a Kona Coffee Tour

We have all heard of wine tours, but have you heard of a coffee tour? Many people don't imagine spending their vacation taking a tour of a coffee farm, which is why this makes it on our list of unusual things to do in Hawaii. Hawaii is renowned worldwide for its exceptional coffee. The tropical climate and rich soil make it a perfect place to harvest this treat year-round. Take a tour of the farm, learn all about the history and the process, and taste this delicious coffee. It is a unique experience and a treat to have on your next visit.

8. Visit a Treehouse at Kīlauea

The Kīlauea Treehouse offers people a chance to live out their childhood dreams. Stay in an adorable home, nestled in the trees of the tropical Hawaiian rainforest. Relax as you soak in the beauty of your surroundings. Additionally, this treehouse is near the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. You get an up-close view of these incredible volcanoes, and can even see the glow of molten lava after dark.

9. Visit Keahole Point Blowhole

Located in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii this is an unusual thing to do because not many people get to experience something so unique. In this region, there is a volcano that last erupted in 1801. Although this volcano hasn't erupted in quite some time, there is still some activity surrounding this volcano. There is a lava tube created by the flow of lava going into the sea during a past eruption, that serves as a conduit between the ocean and the cliff above.

When the waves crash against the coastline, just right, water rushes through this lava tube. As it does, water blasts vertically from the opening and creates a spout of water that shoots out of the top of the lava tube. Many people love to gather around and watch this blowhole spout its impressive water.

10. Go Bird-Watching

While bird-watching may seem like an unusual thing to do while on your vacation to Hawaii, it is worth doing. Hawaii is home to many stunning species of birds. One of the best bird-watching spots on the big island is Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. The eruptions from the volcanoes change the environment, causing different species of birds to thrive here. Two of Hawaii's favorites inhabit this area, the Hawaiian goose and the Hawaiian hawk. Additionally, you can find rarer species such as the Elepaio and Omao as well.

Unusual Things to Do on Hawaii's Smaller Islands

While the Big Island is a popular destination for vacation, it is not the only Hawaiian island that gets visited. Below are a couple of unusual things to do on Hawaii's smaller islands, so that no matter where you choose to vacation you have a great activity to do.

O'ahu

• Visit the Byodo-In Temple
• Take the Hollywood's Tropical Backlot Tour at Kuaola Ranch

Maui

• Visit the Maui Honey Bee Sanctuary
• Camp inside of a dormant volcano at the Haleakala cabins, located within the Haleakala crater

Kauai

• Visit Waimea Canyon
• Take a boat tour of the Nāpali Coast

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Just an hour south of Washington, D.C., and rich in history, it is no wonder that Fredericksburg, Virginia is such a popular destination. While it is known for its historic downtown and chef-owned restaurants, another thing that is popular in Fredericksburg is quality consignment shops. In this article, we will cover the best 7 consignment shops in Fredericksburg, Virginia, and everything you need to know about them.

1. Re-Run Shoppe 

Address: 1017 Caroline St, Fredericksburg, VA 22401 

Hours: Monday – Saturday 10:00 am – 5:00 pm 

The Re-Run Shoppe is a popular small business in Fredericksburg, Virginia. It gives those who visit a chance to save money, make money, donate clothes to those in need, and help save the planet. With approximately 2.62 million tons of clothes recycled last year, it is clear to see the popularity of this shop. This consignment shop in Fredericksburg, Virginia focuses on ladies, teens, and children’s clothing and accessories. They try to be fair with prices for both the cosigner and the buyers. Clothing that is given for consignment must be in season. To see more details regarding their consignment policy, be sure to visit their website. 

2. Two Times New 

Address: 2028 Plank Rd, Fredericksburg, VA 22401 

Hours: Monday – Thursday 10:00 am – 5:30 pm 

             Friday – Saturday 10:00 am – 6:00 pm 

             Sunday 12:00 pm – 6:00 pm 

This small business consignment shop in Fredericksburg, Virginia focuses on antiques. However, they also sell clothing items. Ranking highly on Google reviews and Yelp, shoppers comment on the friendliness of the staff and the variety of vendors and products available in the store. While it does offer many wonderful finds, reviewers do warn that because of the massive size of this space, it does take some patience and digging to find the perfect object. 

3. ETC by Southern Accents 

Address: 109 Amelia St, Fredericksburg, VA 22401 

Hours: Friday – Wednesday 11:00 am – 5:00 pm 

ETC by Southern Accents focuses on upscale used furniture and estate sales. They offer a diverse collection of designer furniture and décor. They also carry an eclectic collection of Chinese, Japanese, Korean, and Thai décor. This store has the merchandise to accommodate a diverse range of styles and budgets and reviewers have raved about the quality of the furniture, the great deals, and the friendly staff. 

4. Sequels 

Address: 971 Taskforce Dr, Fredericksburg, VA 22407

Hours: Tuesday – Saturday 11:00 am – 5:00 pm

Sundays 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm 

Sequels is an upscale ladies' resale boutique in Fredericksburg, Virginia. This shop is owned by a mother-daughter duo and they focus on recycling, reusing, and reloving all the products that they sell. They specialize in women’s quality designer clothing, accessories, and home accents. They offer both an in-person and online store and come with a very high ranking of 4.8 out of 5 stars on Google reviews. 

5. Clothes Mentor 

Address: 1757 Carl D. Silvery Parkway, Fredericksburg, VA 22401

Hours: Monday – Saturday 10:00 am –  8:00 pm

Sundays 12:00 pm – 6:00 pm 

The Clothes Mentor is a consignment shop in Fredericksburg, Virginia that sells gently used name-brand and designer clothing, shoes, and accessories for up to 70% off of original retail prices. They only accept clothes in great condition and offer sizes ranging from 0-26 as well as maternity clothing. Additionally, they offer shoes, handbags, and other accessories. In addition to keeping their goods affordable, this company also believes in sustainability and supporting their local community. 

6. Plato’s Closet 

Address: 1621 Carl D Silver Parkway Fredericksburg, VA 22401 

Hours: Monday – Saturday 10:00 am – 9:00 pm

Sunday 11:00 am – 6:00 pm 

Plato’s Closet has multiple locations and each location is individually owned and operated by local business owners. With over 480 store locations, they are recognized as the nation’s largest chain of teen and twenty-something resale stores. Their focus is on gently used items that are in current style and great condition. Plato’s Closest is a great shop for both the buyer and the seller. 

7. Once Upon A Child Fredericksburg 

Address: 1879 Carl D. Silver Parkway, Fredericksburg, AV 22401 

Hours: Monday – Saturday 9:30 am – 8:00 pm

Sunday 11:00 am – 6:00 pm 

Once Upon A Child is a consignment shop that buys and sells gently used kid’s clothing, shoes, toys, and baby items. Similarly to Plato’s Closet, each location is individually owned by local business owners. Items offered at this location are up to 70% off of regular retail prices. They strive to offer a fun and convenient way to shop that is also eco-friendly. In addition to their gently used items, Once Upon A Child also offers new items in their stores. 

Summary of the 7 Best Consignment Shops in Fredericksburg, Virginia

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As one of the original 13 states, New Jersey has many amazing facts and history in it. Situated in the Northeastern region of the United States it is known as “The Garden State”. Besides its beautiful state parks and famous pork roll, there are many smaller counties and boroughs in the state that all hold their sense of magic. Haddonfield is one such area. Haddonfield is a borough, located in Camden County, that is known for its historic homes and quaint shops. Among those quaint shops are excellent consignment shops. This article will share with you the 5 best consignment shops in Haddonfield, New Jersey so you are ready for your next trip there. 

#1. The Lavish Loft Consignment Boutique

Address: 105 Kings Hwy E, Haddonfield, NJ 08033 

Hours: Wednesday- Saturday 11:00 am – 5:00 pm and Sunday 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm 

The Lavish Loft is a consignment boutique that specializes in designer handbags, women’s clothing, and accessories. They pride themselves on having vintage products and offer 100% authenticity guaranteed. All of their luxury and designer handbags are verified through entrupy. Shop here rest assured that you are getting the best, at more affordable costs. 

#2. Pure Couture Consignment Shop

Address: 23 Mechanic St, Haddonfield NJ, 08033

Hours: Tuesday- Saturday 11:00 am – 5:00 pm and Sundays 12:00 pm – 4:00 pm 

Established in November of 2007, Pure Couture is located in historic downtown Haddonfield, New Jersey. It features accessories, couture pieces, and many one-of-a-kind garments. Shop here if you’re looking for beautiful and unexpected pieces. New inventory is added daily so there is always something new and exciting about this shop. Also, this location offers additional services such as a personal stylist to assist you with finding the perfect outfit, closet organization, and assisting in the liquidation of your estate. 

#3. Raks Thrift Avenue 

Address: 43 Kings Hwy E, Store #1,  Haddonfield, NJ 08033 

Hours: Wednesday – Saturday 11:00 am – 5:00 pm and Sundays 12:00 pm – 4:00 pm

Raks Thrift Avenue has been bringing joy to people since 1994. As it celebrates its 30th year in business it is no wonder that this shop is so popular. At this location, you can find high-end items for a fraction of the cost of other retailers. They offer a great mix of trending and vintage items. One thing to note, all sales at this store are final, so make sure you love it before you buy it.

#4. Maison Marcelle Boutique 

Address: 134 Kings Hwy E, Haddonfield, NJ 08033 

Hours: Thursday – Saturday 11:00 am – 6:00 pm, Sundays 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm and Wednesday 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm 

If you are looking for an upscale resale store, look no further than Maison Marcelle Boutique. This French-inspired consignment shop in Haddonfield, New Jersey offers sizes from 00-5x and a beautiful and upscale atmosphere. This boutique offers vintage clothes, collectible items, and stunning one-of-a-kind pieces. You can find fine china, stunning apparel, perfumes, and more. Inclusive, sustainable, and upscale resale, this shop really does have it all. 

#5. Caroline’s Fashion Luxuries Consignment Shop

Address: 221 Kings Hwy E, Haddonfield, NJ 08033

Hours: Monday-Saturday 10:00 am – 6:00 pm 

This consignment shop offers beautiful pre-owned and one-of-a-kind pieces. Here you can shop for clothing, handbags, jewelry, and various accessories. Additionally, you can find unique and high-end items at a more affordable cost. Each item in the shop is authenticated and verified so you can rest assured you are getting good quality when you purchase.  With 3.9/5 stars on Google Reviews, the majority of people have nothing but kind things to say about this consignment shop.

Summary of the 5 Best Consignment Shops in Haddonfield, New Jersey

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Virginia Beach is a popular destination for many families during the warm summer months. With delicious local dining options, arts and entertainment, and family-friendly attractions it is no wonder why it is gaining popularity. With places like the Virginia Beach Boardwalk or the Cape Henry Lighthouse, Virginia Beach is a favorite for beachgoers. However, this resort city has more than just miles of beaches, it is also a great spot to find consignment stores. In this article, we will cover the top 8 consignment shops in Virginia Beach that are worth checking out.  We will discuss where they are located, what they mainly sell, and more details about each of them.

#1. Worth the Wait Consignment Boutique 

Address: 3157 VA Beach Blvd #101, Virginia Beach, VA 23452

Hours: Monday-Saturday: 10 am-6 pm and Sunday: 10 am-3 pm 

Worth the Wait Consignment Boutique is a popular consignment shop in Virginia Beach. Rated 4.5/5 stars on The Real Yellow Pages, this shop sells various high-end items. These items range from handbags to shoes, to wedding dresses. They offer brands such as Gucci, Chanel, and Calvin Klein at more affordable prices. In addition, they also sell things such as soaps, candles, and things for pets in their gift boutique. If you are interested in consigning with them they allow walk-ins Monday-Satruday from 10 am-1 pm and you can bring up to 50 items.

#2. Double Take Consignment 

Address: 604 Hilltop West Shopping Center, Virginia Beach, VA 23451 

Hours: Monday-Saturday 10 am – 5 pm and Sunday 11 pm- 5 pm 

Another popular consignment shop in Virginia Beach is Double Take Consignment. Also highly rated on The Real Yellow Pages, this shop is not to be missed on your next trip to Virginia Beach. They sell outerwear, accessories, tops, dresses, jewelry, and more. They have options to cosign for a check or for credit/exchange. To see further details on this, as well as the steps of how to consign with them you can visit their website. 

#3. Sprout Children's Boutique & Consignment 

Address: 1556 Laskin Rd, Virginia Beach, VA 23451

Hours: Monday-Saturday 10 am-5 pm 

This Virginia Beach consignment store specializes in baby, child, and tween clothing. Rated 4.5/5 stars on Yelp, this shop has been described as having “new merchandise”, having “a good mix of toys and clothing for all ages” and “always a pleasure to visit.” It seems to be a neighborhood favorite for all things kids! If you are in town visiting with your little ones, it is worth it to stop by. 

#4. Uptown Cheapstake Virginia Beach

Address: 2137 Upton Drive Suite 312 Virginia Beach, VA 23454

Hours: Monday-Saturday: 10 am-8 pm and Sundays 12 pm-5 pm 

Uptown Cheapstake accepts gently used clothes, shoes, bags, and accessories for cash on the spot. They also offer amazing deals on popular brands such as Coach, Michael Kors, J. Crew, and more. This shop is great for sellers and buyers. If you are looking for quality clothes at an affordable price, this is a great option for you. They offer stylish, fashion-focused clothes that are in good condition. For sellers, they offer cash, trade value, and consignment opportunities. Be sure to check out their website for further details. 

#5. Boulevard Treasures 

Address: 2224 Virginia Beach Blvd. Suite 102 Virginia Beach, VA 23454

Hours: Tuesday-Friday: 10 am-6 pm and Saturdays 10 am-5 pm 

This shop specializes in upscale consignment antiques, jewelry, and furniture. In addition, they have more unique finds such as vintage paintings, and nice plates. With two levels and multiple rooms, this is no small shop, and you can easily spend hours exploring all of the nooks and crannies of this charming shop. Be sure to check their website for information on upcoming estate sales in the area.

#6. Raymond’s Antiques 

Address: 3157 Virginia Beach Blvd Ste 106, Virginia Beach, VA 23452

Hours: Available by appointment only

Raymond’s Antiques offers consignment services, antiques, coin dealers and supplies, estate appraisal, and sales, as well as second-hand dealers. Some of the antiques that this shop buys are silver and gold coins, vintage watches and pocket watches, antique furniture, costume jewelry, and vintage toys. It even buys entire estates. If you are interested in learning more about this unique consignment shop be sure to check out their website. 

#7. Decorate Rich Consignment Home Decor and More 

Address: 3101 Virginia Beach Blvd Ste 109, Virginia Beach, VA 

Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 11 am- 5 pm 

Not all consignment shops focus just on clothes. Decorate Rich is a home decor consignment shop boutique that offers a selection of home furniture. They have received 4.8/5 stars on Google reviews and have been praised for both their wonderful selection of home decor and friendly staff. Additionally, in 2019, this shop won the Best of Coastal Virginia Reader’s Choice Award for the 6th year in a row. Worth a visit when you are in town. 

#8. Bella Tu Boutique 

Address: 3932 Virginia Beach Blvd, Virginia Beach, VA 23452

Hours: Tuesday- Friday: 11 am – 5 pm and Saturdays 11 am – 4 pm 

Bella Tu Boutique is a fine consignment store dedicated to offering a diverse selection of designer merchandise for an affordable price to their customers. This shop has been featured in Coastal Virginia Magazine and The Virginian-Pilot and is constantly praised for delivering high customer service. This new and upscale consignment shop offers traditional options such as clothing, shoes, bags, and jewelry as well as decorative accents for your home. Those accents include paintings, sculptures, wearable art, and unique gift items. Be sure to stop by and admire their many treasures. 

Summary of The 8 Best Consignment Shops in Virginia Beach

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As new generations come to the forefront of our society, a shift in values and approaches begins to ensue. One area that has seen such a shift is the world of parenting. Each generation has its idea of the best practices when raising children. However, two generations that seem to differ in their approaches are the baby boomers and the millennials. While some of the core values may be similar between the two generations, recent studies and findings show that they greatly differ in their methods of instilling those values. In this article, we will discuss parenting techniques that boomers swear by that millennials would never use. Then, we will compare the two. It will provide an overview of the two parenting styles and allow you to compare boomer vs. millennial parenting techniques. Let’s dive in! 

Baby Boomer vs. Millennial: What Is the Difference? 

Before you analyze the difference between these two groups’ parenting techniques, you should first understand what each group is. Each of these groups is a different generation. A generation is a group of individuals born around the same time that usually see the world similarly. 

The baby boomers, also known as boomers, were born between the years of 1946-1964. This generation received this name because of the influx in birth rates during the time post World War II. Baby boomers tend to be associated with high work ethics, independence, very career-focused, and competitive nature. They also played a large role in social change through activism during the sixties. 

Millennials, often the children of baby boomers, were born between 1981 and 1996. This generation is the first to grow up with the internet and has been called the global generation. They are also sometimes referred to as the “Unluckiest Generation”. This is due to the shared experience of slower economic growth. More so than many other generations. Millennials are known to be quick to understand technology and tend to postpone marriage and children until later in life. This generation tends to place higher values on achievement, trust, authenticity, transparency, meaningful work, diversity, and mental health prioritization.  

Boomer vs. Millennial Parenting Techniques 

While both generations have pros and cons of their parenting styles, the general outline of each style is this. Boomers tend to prioritize respecting authority figures, placing a high value on education, having clear distinctions between parent and child in their relationships, and having a solid structure. Meanwhile, millennials tend to prioritize emotional connection with their children, open communication, positive reinforcement, and encouraging autonomy in their children.

Below are 10 parenting techniques that people in the baby boomer generation commonly use. These are tactics and techniques that members of this generation swear by when raising children. However, although boomers swear by these techniques, you would not see an average millennial using them.   Below we compare boomer vs. millennial parenting techniques.

1. Helicopter Parenting 

The term helicopter parenting was given to the boomer generation in the 1980s and is characterized by hovering over your child. If someone is a helicopter parent, they tend to be a bit overbearing and overprotective. While this comes from a good place and a desire to protect those you love, it can have negative consequences. According to Cleveland Clinic, “researchers found that over-controlling parenting of a child at age 2 was associated with poorer emotional and behavioral regulation at age 5.” Additionally, this authoritarian parenting style has been linked to creating dependency on others and ineffective coping skills in the children who are brought up with them.

Boomers tend to look at children today and think that they lack structure and guidance. They may express that kids have too much autonomy in their choices. Also, it is the parent’s responsibility to make decisions for their children until they reach a certain age. While many millennials agree with these points, they also favor providing their child with that autonomy. They act more as a facilitator in guiding their children to take the right approaches. Millennials are much more lax with this parenting technique. This style has been referred to as the “drone” approach. Rather than hovering and anticipating needs or outcomes, millennial parents watch their children and respond to their needs once they have occurred.

2. Strict Career Expectations

Those in the baby boomer generation placed a higher value on education and more rigid career expectations for their children than modern-day millennials. Boomers favor stable, long-term, traditional career paths and have a very work-centric mindset around education and jobs. 

This differs from millennials, who favor a work-life balance. Also, they are more open to alternative learning methods, such as online education or homeschooling. Additionally, millennial parents are more understanding of new emerging careers in the media space, such as influencers and Youtubers. Due to their growing up with technology, millennial parents are more willing to be okay with their child having a “non-traditional” career than their boomer counterparts. 

3. Mandatory Familial Affection  

A new parenting trend that sets millennials apart from boomers is non-mandatory familial affection. Oftentimes, as parents, boomers would encourage familial affection. If grandma or grandpa came over, children were usually met with the phrase, “Go give (fill in the person’s role or name) a hug.” Baby boomers hold traditional family roles with very high standards. It seemed like no big deal to tell their children to hug Grandma when she came over. Usually, it was an act of teaching kindness and affection. 

On the other hand, millennial parents tend to look at the situation differently. While it can be tempting to encourage your child to give their family members the hugs that they are craving, millennial parents instead focus on the signs their child is giving rather than the requests their family is making. Some children are uncomfortable with hugs or large social settings, and being forced to give hugs and kisses can be unbearable for them. By allowing their child to decide who they give hugs to and when millennial parents are teaching their children an important lesson about consent. 

While most people think of sexual situations when they hear the word consent, it is a skill that extends beyond those situations. You can teach your child about boundaries, how to make sure people respect them, and how to respect others' boundaries in return. 

4. Time Outs  

Another difference between boomer and millennial parenting techniques is the use of time-outs. Oftentimes, when a child acted out or misbehaved, it was typical for a baby boomer to send them to their room for a time-out. While time outs were meant to be a time for reflection on their poor actions, and to show that bad behavior does not encourage affection, millennials tend to opt for a different approach. 

Instead of sending children to their rooms, millennial parents want to talk the issue through with their children. The goal of this interaction is to show the child that their feelings and needs are heard and understood. Then, once the child is calm, the parent and child discuss the issue more thoroughly. They then decide on a better course of action for the next time. 

5. Corporal Punishment   

A strong distinction between the two generations' parenting styles is the use of corporal punishment. While spanking or washing a child’s mouth out with soap may have not seemed like a big deal in the past, many millennial parents today are against all forms of corporal punishment. Instead, they use a technique that is referred to as gentle parenting. 

Gentle parenting is an emotion-focused parenting technique. It relies on empathy, understanding, and mutual respect. Boomer parenting styles are more heavily focused on punishment and reward systems. Gentle parenting focuses on improving self-awareness, understanding behaviors, and setting healthy boundaries. 

While many boomers scoff at the idea of gentle parenting and think that it allows the child to walk all over the parent, many millennials swear by it. Gentle parenting helps children learn to empathize and helps them become more aware of themselves. However, researchers have begun to discover that there is a correlation between gentle parenting and childhood obesity.

6. Screen Time Limitations

While there is more technology for children today, there was still the use of technology for the millennial generation when they were children. Most millennials are the children of boomers, and they can remember screen time limitations from their childhood. You were only allowed to play video games or watch television for a set amount of time each day. Or sometimes, only certain days a week. That is because older generations saw television or screen time as something that rotted your brain. It was something that should only be used as a treat. 

Although too much screen time can indeed lead to issues such as heightened attention-deficit symptoms, social isolation, and disrupted sleep, many millennial parents see the value that it can have on their children’s education. Gone are the days when technology was just for cartoons. Now, there are so many educational resources available online for kids to enjoy. Technology is now not seen as a hindrance but as an opportunity. It provides students with easily accessible information and fun ways to learn. 

7. Making Children Do Chores 

Baby boomers had a high respect for responsibility and for following rules. Often, when these children were eight or nine years old they were making their beds, doing dishes, and helping around the house. Therefore, it is no surprise that boomers instilled those values in their children as well. Oftentimes, boomer children were given chores to teach responsibility and to learn about the idea of pulling one’s weight in the household. These roles, often gender-stereotypical, were usually things such as cleaning the dishes, setting the table, mowing the grass, helping with the laundry, taking out the trash, etc. 

One of the main reasons that millennial parents tend to stray from making their children do chores is that they often do not encourage gender-stereotyping roles. In fact, according to TIME, fifty percent of millennial parents have purposefully bought gender-neutral toys for their children. In an attempt to avoid placing gender roles on their children, many younger parents may avoid giving them chores that could be seen as stereotypical. Instead, many children now are only asked to do the most trivial responsibilities, such as feeding a pet, cleaning the table, or tidying up after themselves. 

8. Authoritarian Parenting Style

Authoritarian parenting was a very common style during the baby boomer era. The authoritarian parenting style is a strict style that places high expectations on the children and there is mainly a one-way dialogue. The parent sets expectations and rules, and the child obeys them. Boomers swear by this style of parenting and say that it keeps children well-behaved. While it is true that children of an authoritarian parent household are usually well-behaved and good at following instructions, they also have higher levels of aggression, are shy, and are usually unable to make their own decisions.

Millennial parents take a different approach. While many boomers would argue that millennials have adopted permissive parenting, many millennials argue that they use gentle parenting. Permissive parenting styles are the opposite of authoritarian. They are warm and nurturing and have little to no expectations of their children. They have open communication and limited rules. Parents who use this style are often seen as pushovers who give their children too much freedom. Children of this parenting style usually have decent social skills but can be impulsive and lack self-regulation. 

Gentle parenting, on the other hand, is a great combination. The warmth and compassion from permissive parenting are still there but with more structure. The goal of gentle parenting is to make an active effort to understand your child’s feelings and ways of thinking, while still maintaining boundaries and ensuring there is respect. This parenting style is much more common in generations today. 

9. Clean Your Plate Mentality 

The mentality of you must “clean” your dinner plate, meaning eat everything on it in its entirety, was a notion that was taught to boomers when they were children. World War II ended in 1945, the first year of the boomer generation was 1946, so the effects of the war were still being felt when the boomers were children. Many food items were scarce or harder to come by during those times, so the idea of eating everything on your plate so you didn’t waste made sense.

However, boomers took that teaching from their parents and carried it down to their children many years later. While not wasting is a good thing, forcing a child to eat everything on their plate can have damaging effects on the child and their relationship with food. In fact, certain experts say that engaging in the “clean plate” mentality can lead to overconsumption and even spark eating disorders. 

Millennial parents tend to be more lenient with their children when it comes to food and food choices. They encourage their children to try everything on their plate, but if they do not like something they are not forced to eat it. The focus here is more on allowing children to experiment with foods and learn what they like while fostering healthy eating habits and a healthy relationship with food. 

10. Closed Dialogue Parenting

Another parenting style that differs from boomers and millennials is the dialogue that they have with their children. Baby boomers tend to favor a closed-dialogue parenting style. With this style, parents withhold information from their children that they deem too sensitive, inappropriate, or complex. Some of those topics could include sexuality, gender, societal issues, or mental health. 

Millennial parents are much more open with their dialogue with their children. They seek a much more intimate relationship with their children and try to teach them through the mistakes that they have made in their lives. With this dialogue style, parents make their children an active part of the house discussions and decisions. In a poll, 74 percent of millennial parents said they involve children in household decisions. Additionally, 8 out of 10 millennial parents claim that their child is one of their best friends. 

Summary of Boomer vs. Millennial Parenting Techniques

Which Parenting Technique Is Better?

When it comes to which parenting technique is better, it is up to the parents' personal preference. You have to select the style, or blend of styles that feels the best to you and makes the most sense for your family. There are strengths and weaknesses to each approach. Boomers foster a great sense of responsibility and respect in their children, whereas millennials foster close emotional connection, self-expression, and autonomy in theirs. Becoming well-informed about each parenting style, and making it applicable to your family is the best course of action.

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Shopping for kids at any age can be tough. Trying to grapple with the task of finding a toy that provides entertainment and some benefits is not easy. When searching for these toys, you wonder what makes a toy better than the rest. How can I tell what the best toy for my child is? One thing to remember is that while each child has their own unique personality, learning styles, and toy preferences, girls and boys learn differently. In general, boys tend to be more movement-driven and prefer kinesthetic learning. As a result of their different learning styles, their toys and toy preferences may also differ. Today, we will discuss the best toys for boys from ages 1-12 as well as information on their development at each stage. 

Best Toys for 1-Year-Old Boys 

One-year-olds come with a ton of developmental milestones. At this age, they are preparing to, or already starting to, walk around the house. They also may be speaking certain words and recognizing objects around their home. During this time, your baby boy will be increasing his communication and language skills, as well as his reasoning and thinking. So, you will want toys that assist in teaching fine or gross motor and vocabulary skills. Some great toys for your one-year-old boy are LeapFrog Learning, animal jigsaw puzzles, and moveable construction toys. Here are 9 of the best toys for 1-year-old boys. 

Best Toys for 2-Year-Old Boys 

Two-year-old boys are increasing their skills and their energy levels. They are gaining new independence, enjoy being around other children, and can follow simple instructions. Two-year-old boys are very active and are beginning to enhance their fine motor skills through exploration and movement. For this age group, you want to purchase toys that allow them to strengthen their cognitive and motor skills. Some great examples of toys for boys this age are interactive tables and building blocks. Here are 8 of the best toys for 2-year-old boys.  

Best Toys for 3-Year-Old Boys 

Three-year-olds are more easily navigating their surroundings, drawing shapes, saying a handful of words, and developing increased movement milestones like the ability to kick balls. With all of the progress that happens at this age, it is important that you are more involved in their development at this time. Also, you want to find toys that feel rewarding and further sharpen the skills that they are developing. Things such as train sets, mini kitchens, or doctors' offices are great toys that can be used independently by your child or with you and your support. Here are 6 of the best toys for 3-year-old boys. 

Best Toys for 4-Year-Old Boys 

At four years old, your child’s curiosity about the world is growing. They are beginning to express their likes and dislikes and are interested in imaginative play. Also, your child will do much better with cooperative play at this developmental stage. Great games for this age range are interactive games or activities. Here are the 4 best toys for 4-year-old boys. 

Best Toys for 5-Year-Old Boys

Reaching the age of five is a huge milestone, not only because your child enters Kindergarten but because of all of the new skills that come with this developmental year. At this point your child is speaking clearly, showing increasing independence, is seeking to please their peers, and seeking new experiences. With all of those changes, it can be overwhelming to select a toy for them. The best toys for this age group are interactive and imaginative, things that will encourage their sense of play. Here are 10 best toys for 5-year-old boys. 

Best Toys for 6-Year-Old Boys 

At six years old, your child will be entering first grade. At this age, your child will have a deeper understanding of STEM and crave more intellectual stimulation. Additionally, they will crave fun and excitement. Educational games or toys that involve simple engineering are great options for boys at this age. Here are the 15 best toys for 6-year-old boys. 

Best Toys for 7-Year-Old Boys 

By seven years old, your child is beginning to enter middle childhood. They can express their ideas more clearly, have more mature conversations, and think more complexly. They are beginning to understand time, are better at articulating their feelings, and are more competent in physical skills. Toys for this age should be able to handle rough play and should encourage the growth of intellectual skills. Here are the 11 best toys for 7-year-old boys. 

Best Toys for 8-Year-Old Boys 

At eight years old, your child is growing, and so is their intellectual capability. You want to look for toys that create opportunities for mental growth or that provide an outlet for their newfound energy. At eight years old, your child will also be more creative and have specific interests. Besides finding toys that fit your particular child’s interests, you want to also look at toys that allow them to be creative and build confidence. Great examples of toys for eight-year-olds are legos, memory games, and an electronic drum set. Here are the 7 best toys for 8-year-old boys. 

Best Toys for 9-Year-Old Boys 

At nine years old, your child will be well immersed in their interests and social groups. While they may still engage in imaginative play, they are becoming more emotionally and cognitively advanced. They will speak more like an adult and have better literacy skills. They will also have an increased attention span and better spatial intelligence. Additionally, they are stronger and more coordinated, making sports and outdoor activities easier. Boys tend to be a little rougher with their toys than girls, so you may want to select toys that are more durable. However, each individual child is different, and you should select your toys based on your child’s interests. Here are the 4 best toys for 9-year-old boys. 

Best Toys for 10-Year-Old Boys 

At ten years old your son should be able to use his fine motor skills to engage in activities of his interest. Those activities could include painting, skateboarding, or sports of his choice. Additionally, he will be developing stronger relationships with his friends and maybe becoming more competitive. He should also be showing more responsibility. While your child is growing older, their love of toys will not diminish. It is important to provide them with toys that correlate with their interests and allow them to showcase their skills. Some great toy options for ten-year-old boys are robot toys, logic puzzles, or remote control cars. Here are the 10 best toys for 10-year-old boys.

Best Toys for 11-Year-Old Boys 

As your child reaches 11 years old, it can become increasingly difficult to shop for them. They are now starting to become their own person with their own unique personality and interests. With those ever-changing interests, honing in on the best toy can be hard. At 11 years old, you are beginning to enter the “tween” years with your child.

They now understand that thoughts are private, and they are experiencing growth spurts. Also, they begin to exhibit better decision-making skills and dedicate more time to their hobbies. At this stage in your child’s development, it is important to gear toys towards their particular interests. However, there are some generic toys that most 11-year-old boys would love. Some of those toys include a Nintendo Switch and a bike. Here are the 6 best toys for 11-year-old boys.

Best Toys for 12-Year-Old Boys 

While playing may look different at your pre-teen stage of life, it is still important to encourage creativity and imagination. 12-year-old boys will become better at problem-solving, they will be able to think abstractly, and they will begin to play sports effectively. Purchasing toys that align with their interests and encourage them to strengthen their skills can be a great way for you to bond with them. Some ideas for great toys for 12-year-old boys include mini drones, power robots, and a science kit. Here are the 10 best toys for 12-year-old boys.

Final Thoughts

While gift-giving can seem overwhelming, it can be made so much simpler when you understand your child’s interests and current developmental state. Begin by looking at the age of your child and the skills they should be developing at that stage. Next, consider your child’s particular interests and try to gear the toys towards them. We hope this guide helps inspire you if you are stumped and helps you feel better prepared when staring face to face with the countless toys on the market today. Happy toy shopping! 

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Eggs have been a staple part of breakfast for many years. Whether you prefer scrambled, sunny side up, or over easy, they always make a great addition to your breakfast plate. However, eggs are prevalent in more than just breakfast dishes. One way that many people use them in dinners or appetizers is by hard boiling them. While hard boiling an egg seems simple, there is a certain process and a certain magic to get your egg to turn out just right. This article will discuss how to make the perfect hard-boiled egg. We will cover all the basics: how to cook and use it in your kitchen, and even provide a free time chart to show you how long to cook for your desired consistency. Let’s dive into learning about the perfect hard-boiled egg! 

What Is a Hard-Boiled Egg?

Before learning how to cook the perfect hard-boiled egg, we should first agree on what a hard-boiled egg is. According to the Collins Dictionary, a hard-boiled egg is an egg that “has been boiled in its shell until the whole of the inside is solid.” 

This means that the entirety of the egg should have a solid consistency; there should be no runny parts in your hard-boiled egg. Additionally, with a hard-boiled egg, the egg remains whole. This differs from breakfast methods such as scrambled. After it is cooked, certain egg preparations may require cutting it, but your egg should be whole and solid throughout the cooking process. 

How to Cook a Hard-Boiled Egg 

Now that you know what a hard-boiled egg is, let’s discuss how to cook it. The good news? Hard-boiled eggs are relatively simple to make. To properly prepare your hard-boiled eggs, you will only need four things:

• A pot 
• A lid for your pot 
• Your eggs 
• Water

First, place your desired amount of eggs into your pot and cover them with cold water. Your water should be about an inch higher than your eggs. Next, set your burner to high heat and allow your water to come to a boil. Once your water is boiling rapidly, remove your eggs from the heat and allow them to sit in the hot water. 

As you can see from our time chart above, the amount of time you allow your eggs to sit determines their consistency. A good time metric for hard-boiled eggs is between 10 and 15 minutes; 15 minutes will give you the most solid consistency to your egg, but 10 minutes will also provide a decent hard-boiled egg. Factors that can affect this timing are the size of the egg and the cooker’s personal preference. The larger the egg, the more time it should stand. So, if your egg is large, let it stand for 15 minutes; if it is smaller, let it stand for 10-12 minutes. 

After letting your eggs sit for the desired time, you will want to drain them and run cold water over them until they are cooled. Covering your eggs in cold water is a sort of shock to them that stops the cooking process and causes the egg whites to contract. This will also help make them easier to peel. 

The Peeling Process

While running the cold water over the egg helps make the peeling process easier, there are some other tips and tricks for making peeling an egg easier. One trick is to use the eggs that have been in the refrigerator longer; being less fresh makes it easier to peel. 

Additionally, gently roll the egg between your hands after you tap it on a hard surface and create a break in the shell. This helps to loosen the shell from the egg and can dislodge larger pieces of the shell, making it easier for you to grab and pull off in bigger pieces.  

Hard-Boiled Eggs in the Kitchen 

Once you have successfully cooked the perfect hard-boiled egg, it is time to jazz it up! While you can serve your hard-boiled egg independently, many herbs and other accompaniments make your egg even better. Some great toppers for your hard-boiled eggs are:

Recipes

While there are countless ways to use a hard-boiled egg in the kitchen, here are five simple recipes that showcase the versatility of this food item and how it can be used in your kitchen.

Deviled Eggs

A very common and simple recipe that is often made with hard-boiled eggs is deviled eggs. Great as appetizers or as any party dish, deviled eggs are loved by many. Simply cook your hard-boiled eggs and peel them. Next, remove the yolk from the eggs and place them in a bowl with mayonnaise, mustard, lemon juice, and salt. Whisk all those ingredients together and place the mixture into a pastry bag. Pipe the mixture into the egg whites. Then add seasoning and garnish of your choice. A common choice is chives, parsley, or dill, with salt and a little paprika.

Cobb Salad

Another well-known recipe is the Cobb salad. To make this salad, create a base of chopped salad greens. The typical choice is romaine lettuce, but you may choose whatever salad greens you enjoy. Top your base with chopped tomatoes, bacon, chicken breast, avocado, blue cheese, chives, and our beloved hard-boiled eggs. Sprinkle on some salt and pepper, and dress with a red wine vinaigrette.

Avocado Toast

This meal has grown in popularity lately, and it is easy to see why. Besides being visually appealing, it also tastes great and offers various nutritious benefits. It is a great source of fiber and provides multiple vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. To create this dish, simply combine avocado, lemon juice, salt, and pepper into a bowl. Gently mash it and spread it over a toasted piece of your chosen bread. Garnish with seeds, a sliced hard-boiled egg, and any additional seasoning you choose.

Sautéed Asparagus and Mushrooms with Dressing

A hearty side dish, sautéed asparagus, and mushrooms is a delicious addition to any family dinner. Simply heat up olive oil on the stove and add in minced garlic. Saute until the garlic is fragrant, and add your asparagus and mushrooms of choice. Stir frequently and add salt, pepper, and any seasoning you choose. If you want it to have more flavor, you can add a sauce as well, such as soy sauce. Once you remove it from the stove, you can garnish it with your hard-boiled eggs for color and texture.

Egg Salad

To make a delicious egg salad, you want to remove the yolks from your hard-boiled eggs. You want to mash the yolks in a bowl with mayonnaise, mustard, salt, and pepper. Then chop the egg whites and add them into the bowl along with green onion, celery, and chopped dill. Season with paprika and other seasonings of your choice. You can have this egg salad on its own, or you can put it on top of salads or sandwiches.

Hard-Boiled Egg Shelf Life and How to Store Them 

After taking the time to boil your eggs, you want to ensure that you store them properly so that all of that effort does not go to waste. According to the book Poultry Science, multiple home storage conditions were tested for the keeping of hard-boiled eggs. Leaving your eggs out at room temperature will quickly promote bacteria growth, and your eggs will keep for less than a week.

If you keep your eggs in the refrigerator, they will keep for up to a week. Their storage life increases if you store them in their shells. According to the study discussed in the book, “peeling the eggs decreased storage stability at 4 C by almost 40% compared with eggs stored in the shell.” So, if you want your perfect hard-boiled eggs to have the longest life possible, store them in a sealed container, unpeeled, in the refrigerator.

What to Do With Left Over Hard-Boiled Eggs 

If you made slightly too many eggs for your recipe, do not fret. There are plenty of uses for those leftover hard-boiled eggs. You could store them in the fridge as a snack on their own. However, if you want to incorporate them into a dish, throwing them on top of a salad or into a sandwich also works. The sautéed vegetable recipe from above is another great option for any loose or leftover hard-boiled eggs in your fridge. This food is really versatile, so it can be easily incorporated into many different dishes.

Egg Health Benefits 

While there has been some debate over the role or benefits of eggs over the years, many experts still agree on the benefits of eating this popular breakfast food. One benefit that eggs provide is that they pack a lot of protein. Protein is important for a healthy body because it builds muscles, a strong immune system, hair, and nails.

Also, eggs have various vitamins and minerals important to overall health. Some of those include vitamin D, folate, vitamin B12, zinc, and selenium. Research suggests that those who eat eggs have higher levels of nutrients than those who do not and surprisingly lower cholesterol levels.

While hard-boiling the eggs may lessen some of the nutrients, other nutrients are more digestible. According to Healthline, a study found “that the human body could use 91% of the protein in cooked eggs, compared to only 51% in raw eggs.”

Recipe Card

Simple Deviled Eggs

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• Author: MomsWhoThink.com

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Ingredients

• 6 eggs
• Dash of salt
• Dash of pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon mustard
• 1 1/2 to 2 1/2 Tablespoons mayonnaise
• Paprika

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Instructions

1. Boil eggs. Cool for 10 minutes and remove shells. Cut into halves lengthwise and remove yolk, place yolk into a small bowl.
2. Cream yolk, salt, pepper, mustard, and mayonnaise.
3. Put 1/2 teaspoonful into egg whites and garnish with paprika.

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Mathematics is a fundamental part of your child’s education journey. In mathematics, there are four core concepts: addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. The four core concepts help lay the groundwork for developing and understanding more complex math concepts. While addition and subtraction are taught first, multiplication and division are not far behind.   Multiplication is taught before division and helps students understand working with large groups of numbers and with memory skills.

 Oftentimes, tables are used to help students memorize their multiplication facts. These tables allow students to recognize, memorize, and easily recall multiplication facts from 1-100. Some tables are presented as one large table, while others are broken down into segments to showcase each individual number and their multiplication facts. Both charts help in assisting the child’s memory and multiplication practice. 

In this article, we will provide you with a free multiplication table as well as tips on how to teach multiplication easily and effectively to your child. In addition, we will discuss the importance of multiplication in the classroom and its benefits in the real world.

Benefits of Using a Multiplication Chart 

Multiplication charts and tables help students to learn their multiplication facts. Below are some of the top benefits of using a multiplication chart. 

• Recognition and Recall: seeing the chart will assist students in numerical and equation recognition. Repeatedly seeing the numbers and facts over and over again will assist them in their ability to recall and recognize these facts. 
• Improves memory: repeatedly using these tables helps children to commit these facts to memory. Besides increasing their ability to memorize multiplication facts, this table allows the child to stretch their memory muscles in general. 
• Increased self-confidence: learning these facts about becoming good at mentally recalling them can help to improve the students’ self-esteem, which can, in turn, help them become better at more complicated math processes. 

When Do Children Learn Multiplication?

In most cases, children begin to learn multiplication in the second grade. Children are first introduced to addition between the ages of five and seven. After mastering that skill, they move on to subtraction. Once those two skills are mastered, multiplication comes next. According to the Mathematics Standards of Learning for Virginia Public Schools, “The Grade 3 Standards place emphasis on developing an understanding of the concepts of multiplication and division.” By the end of this grade, students should be able to recall their multiplication facts automatically.  

How Do Children Learn Multiplication?

There is some debate on how children view multiplication. One view is that children view multiplication as a form of repeated addition. The second says that repeated addition is just used to find the answer to an equation but that the understanding of the equation is more rooted in a deeper understanding of the correspondence or relationship between the two numbers or sets of numbers. A study involving students from two primary schools in England tested which of these theories was more accurate regarding how children think about and best learn multiplication. Half of those students were taught multiplication with a focus on repeated addition, while the other half were taught with a focus on correspondence.

Based on the study's results, it was evident that most children learn multiplication better when taught with the one-to-many correspondence approach. “The children who participated in an intervention that offered to them the opportunity to practice the use of this schema in the solution of multiplicative reasoning problems made significantly more progress than those who operated on the same numbers but in the context of solving repeated additions.” 

The Importance of Multiplication 

With the growing use of technology, many people may begin to think that learning multiplication facts is no longer relevant. Why bother learning them if you always have a calculator in your pocket? Regardless of improving technology, learning multiplication is still highly important in a child’s mathematical education. Multiplication is one of the fundamental building blocks of education and allows an easier transition of math skills into adulthood. 

Multiplication is the basis of many harder math processes, such as algebra and calculus. Learning and becoming skilled at multiplication allows students to solve math problems with ease and confidence, skills that can help them in their day-to-day lives as adults. Some common examples of when this skill may be used in a real-life scenario include:

• Figuring out how much food to cook or how many placemats to set out for the holidays. 
• Decide how many Christmas cards to send out. 
• Calculating exchange rates for spending when traveling. 

Not only does this skill prove beneficial on its own, but it also helps your child develop an overall number sense. This can help build counting, grouping, estimation, time, and distance skills. 

Ways to Assist Your Child With Learning Multiplication 

While each child learns differently, and there are various ways to teach multiplication, these few tips and tricks can be effective when helping your child learn how to multiply. 

Use physical manipulatives

In the beginning, mental math is a difficult concept for many emerging learners. To help them visualize what multiplication represents, use physical manipulatives. You can use anything: buttons, coins, fruit, whatever objects you have lying around the home that are small, plentiful, and easy to manipulate.  If you don’t have physical objects to manipulate, you can also draw an image. 

For example let’s say you wanted to teach your child to multiply 5 x 4. You would make five groups of four objects, lay them out, and have your child count to understand the multiplication equation. 

Skip Counting 

For some learners, skip counting helps them better solve multiplication problems. This is easier for some students to understand because it uses the principles of addition that they learned in earlier years. For example, if the equation was 5 x 3, you could have your child think of it as the following:

5 

5 + 5 = 10 

10 + 5 = 15 

Teach the Commutative Property 

To help students recall easier multiplication facts, teach them about the commutative property. This property simply states that changing the equation's order does not change its outcome. For example, 6 x 2 and 2 x 6 both equal 12. Having students understand this property will help them with easier recall as they only have to memorize half of the facts. 

Multiplication in the Real World 

The best way for students to learn new skills is to make it applicable to them and their world. When teaching multiplication, try to make it relevant to your child’s life. For example, if your child has a birthday party coming up, make multiplication problems that focus on that. If they have ten friends and everyone needs an invitation, how many invitations do they need to send out? That is practicing the equation 10 x 1. Or let’s say every friend coming gets a goody bag. In that goody bag, there are three pieces of candy. You want to know how many pieces of candy you need to buy for your child’s party. Now, you are practicing the equation 10 x 3. 

Making it relatable to your child’s life or things that the two of you would do in your everyday lives not only makes it more fun for your child but also highlights the skill's importance. It will help show your child that they will need this skill every day, and that will encourage them to learn and grow with their math skills. 

Conclusion 

Free multiplication charts are available to help your child practice their multiplication facts and increase their skills. Multiplication is a core skill in mathematics that helps lay the foundation for various other math skills. Making it applicable to your child’s life and using real-life manipulatives can effectively teach these concepts. If you want to help your child better learn and practice their multiplication facts, you can try creating or downloading free multiplication charts for more practice. 

Up Next:

• Free ABC Chart For Children
• Free Printable Chore Chart For Your Household

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The post Free Multiplication Chart 1-100 To Help With Math appeared first on Moms Who Think.

As the capital of Virginia, Richmond has no shortage of incredible features. Home to museums, botanical gardens, Kings Dominion, and more, it is a popular destination for all those visiting Virginia. Richmond is also home to a variety of thrift shops. Today, we will discuss the ten best thrift shops in Richmond to prepare you for your next thrifting adventure. Let’s dive in.

#1. The Clothes Rack 

Address: 2618 W. Cary Street Richmond, VA 23220

The Clothes Rack is a thrift shop that gives back to the community. In the last 25 years, they have given over 2 million dollars to the Richmond community. Their main goal is to provide new, or mostly new, clothing items to the members of the community. This thrift shop survives on its community's generous donations, giving some of its revenue to a local nonprofit. The Clothes Rack helps the Junior League of Richmond, another local nonprofit that assists women and children in Richmond. With affordable clothing and helping the community with each sale, it truly is an incredible place. 

#2. Diversity Thrift 

Address: 1407 Sherwood Ave, Richmond, VA 23220

Regularly voted one of the best thrift shops in the area, it is no wonder that Diversity Thrift makes it on the list of best thrift shops in Richmond. This thrift shop accepts donations of furniture, clothing, houseware, kitchen items, books, electronics, lamps, and knick-knacks. This is provided that they are in good and usable condition. Items will not be accepted if they are ripped, stained, have odors, excessive pet hair, or are damaged. 

Although this thrift shop accepts a wide variety of gently used items, it does not accept everything. Some items that cannot be donated to Diversity Thrift are beds/bed frames, sofa beds, mattresses, exercise equipment, and printers. To see the complete list of items they do not accept, be sure to check out their website.  

#3. Fan-Tastic Thrift 

Address: 1914 W. Main Street Richmond, VA 23220

This thrift shop is a well-known option located in the Fan area of Richmond. Being in a highly traveled area means you will likely find some awesome thrifted goodies here; however, that is only if you can beat the crowds. You can find clothing, home goods, novelty items, and furniture here. Highly rated and offering goods at a discounted price, this is definitely a thrift shop to check out the next time you are in town.  

#4. Goodwill 

Address:10485 Dow Giil Road Ashland, VA 23005

Goodwill is a wonderful thrifting option for many people. Goodwill believes in the power of work and that it can help those who are down on their luck by assisting them in overcoming challenges that prevent them from working. In addition to this assistance, they also offer a variety of goods at greatly discounted prices. While most items in the stores are clothing-related, each store has a variety of other items specific to that store’s general location and surrounding neighborhood. Some examples of items you may find at Goodwill are books, furniture, picture frames, toys, and housewares. 

#5. Salvation Army 

Address: 3807 Mechanicsville Turnpike Richmond, VA 23222

While the Salvation Army is a great place to find thrift items, what they do goes far beyond that. The Salvation Army also offers disaster relief, homeless shelters, assistance for elderly persons, veterans, domestic abuse victims, food pantries, and so much more. You can shop at one of their many thrift stores, or if you would like to help stock their thrift stores, you can donate cash or items to them. Some of the most commonly donated items are clothing, furniture, automobiles, household goods, and appliances. 

#6. Liberation Thrift 

Address: 5503 Midlothian Tpke, Richmond, VA 23225

This thrift shop is known as the place of second chances. A popular option among thrift shoppers because of the affordable prices, Liberation Thrift seeks to help those in need. Open from 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday, as well as 10:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Wednesdays, there is no shortage of times when you could visit this store. They sell a variety of items, ranging from furniture and jewelry to medical supplies and electronics. You can even find Christmas decorations here! Be sure to call ahead if you are planning on dropping off a large donation that day.

#7. CHKD Thrift Store 

Address: 91 S Laburnum Ave Richmond, VA 23223

Next on the list of best thrift shops in Richmond, Virginia, we have the CHKD Thrift Store. There are 22 locations for this store throughout Hampton Roads and Richmond, showing its popularity. Besides offering much-needed items at an affordable cost, CHKD also offers healthcare to children who need it and cannot afford it. According to their website,  they receive more than 600,000 visits annually from children needing healthcare. 

In addition to already being an affordable option, this store also offers special discount days to help drive the prices even lower for their customers. Mondays are for veterans, who can earn 25 percent off purchases. Tuesdays are for all customers as a sign of customer appreciation, where they can also receive 25 percent off purchases. That 25 percent off applies to officers and first responders on Wednesdays, and on Thursdays, it applies to senior citizens. 

#8. Harvest Thrift 

Address: 3030 Meadowbridge Rd, Richmond, VA 23222

Harvest Thrift is another great thrift shop in Richmond. This thrift shop focuses on providing up-to-date clothes with the latest trends that will help make their clients feel like the best versions of themselves. All at an affordable price! They offer a variety of vintage, men's, women's, and kids' clothing options. This thrift shop is also part of a larger organization called Boaz Ruth. This organization is dedicated to restoring lives and the community through hard work and donations. They want to focus on those who have been hindered by unemployment or otherwise neglected by the community. Shopping at Harvest Thrift gets you some goodies and helps support a larger cause. 

#9. Good Samaritan Thrift Store 

Address: 4680 N Southside Plz, Richmond, VA 23224 

Founded in 1987, the Good Samaritan Ministries is a Christian organization that helps those who are suffering from homelessness, poverty, and addiction. Its main goal is to help these people get back on track and become productive members of society. Their main aim is to provide more than just temporary relief; they want to provide long-term relief. The Good Samaritan Thrift Store is one of the ways that they offer this relief. The thrift store mostly sells gently used clothing, furniture, and home goods. However, they also have a clothing-specific store, a food distribution program, an auto donation section, and a work program. This organization is a great place to purchase affordable goods and lend a helping hand to the community. 

#10. Blessing To U Thrift 

Address: 224 Brookland Park Blvd Richmond VA 23222

Blessings To U Thrift is a church thrift store that sells donated items such as clothes, home goods, and shoes. This store raises its funds to help with the ministry on the north side. Open Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., this store is a great spot to shop.

Summary of The 10 Best Thrift Shops in Richmond, Virginia

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The greyhound is a fast and extremely athletic breed of dog. Due to their speed and athletic nature, greyhounds are often used for racing. However, once retired, this breed makes an excellent choice for a family pet. They are known for their calm, sweet nature and high intelligence. Today, we will discuss if greyhounds are good with kids and what you should consider before making a greyhound the newest addition to your household.  

About the Greyhound 

History and Uses 

The greyhound, also referred to as the English greyhound, was originally used for hunting desert wildlife in Egypt 5,000 years ago. They are also present in Greek and Roman mythology, as well as in the Bible. They have a long reputation and association with royalty and aristocracy. However, in the 19th century, this breed was mainly used for racing due to its incredible speed. 

Size and Physical Appearance 

Male greyhounds reach between 28-30 inches in height, and females reach between 27-28 inches. Males weigh between 65-70 pounds and females weigh between 60-65 pounds. Their average life expectancy is between 10-13 years. 

This breed has a long and narrow head, small ears, and a long, muscular neck. It is a muscular, thin dog with very long and powerful legs. Its coat is short and fine and can come in various color patterns and markings. 

How Much Energy Do Greyhounds Have? 

Greyhounds are not overly excitable dogs. They tend to be calm and are content to lounge around the house. They are considered to be good watchdogs and are relatively open to strangers, both of which make them a family-friendly option. With that being said, they are very athletic and have more energy than many other breeds. Giving them multiple opportunities to exercise their muscles and put their athleticism to good use is important. 

Greyhound Personality Traits 

The Americal Kennel Club describes the greyhound as gentle, noble, and sweet-tempered. While these dogs have an independent spirit, they make great companions and are very graceful. They are highly intelligent, making them easier to train than other breeds. Their high intelligence also makes them require occasional mental stimulation to thrive in their environment. They are not too noisy but have relatively high energy levels. With their gentle and graceful nature, greyhounds appear to be a good fit for kids.

Are Greyhounds Easily Trained?

While greyhounds are playful dogs, they are very smart, making them easier to train than other dogs. They are easier to train as adults rather than puppies because of their difficulty with recall when they are young. However, socializing them when they are young will help with training them for adulthood. Socializing them when they are young also plays a role in how good your greyhound will be with kids.

How to Train Your Greyhound

You should socialize your greyhound from a young age, particularly with small animals and children. Greyhounds can easily become bored, so keeping your training sessions short and to the point is best. Additionally, the greyhound is a sweet and gentle dog, so your training sessions should reflect that. They do not respond well to harsh training sessions. While they are good at doing jobs, greyhounds are not as eager to please as other dog breeds. This means that they prefer doing things with you rather than for you. 

How Old Should Your Child Be When You Get a Greyhound? 

Many greyhound adoption centers, such as Bay Area Greyhound Adoptions, will not sell a greyhound to a family with a child under four years old. Greyhounds are bigger dogs and are quite muscular, making them strong. Although they are mostly calm, having a big dog around a small child increases the risk of accidental injury for both the child and the dog.

You also want to ensure that your child is old enough to understand basic rules of respect when interacting with the dog. For example, not tugging on its ears or tail, not sticking their hands in the dog’s food dish, or not waking the dog while it is sleeping. Additionally, greyhounds have skin that tears easily and is sensitive, and rowdy toddlers may be too aggressive towards the dog. For your child's safety and the new furry addition to your home, it is recommended that your child be at least five years old. 

Are Allergies an Issue With Greyhounds? 

Another reason that greyhounds are a great option for families and kids is that they don't shed as much. Although greyhounds are not considered hypoallergenic, their coat is fine, so they shed and spread less dander than dogs with double coats. If someone in your household has a severe allergy, they may still pose a threat to them. However, if someone has a mild allergy and can tolerate being around dog dander, greyhounds may be a better option for your family than a dog with more fur. While this breed does have a reputation of being less of an allergy concern than other dogs, if you are concerned, it is always best to check with your physician. 

General Tips for Owning a Greyhound 

Health

While the greyhound is considered a generally healthy breed, it is prone to bloat. Bloat is a sudden and life-threatening condition usually accompanied by twisting of the dog’s stomach. Additionally, this breed suffers from a condition called Greyhound neuropathy. In addition to regular veterinary care, The American Kennel Club recommends the following tests for your greyhound:

• Greyhound Polyneuropathy-DNA TestCardiac Exam 
• Ophthalmologist Evaluation 

Grooming

Their short and fine coat does not require much grooming. Make sure to bathe them and trim their nails regularly; they should be fine. Additionally, check your greyhound's ears weekly for any buildup. 

Exercise

While your greyhound may be content to lay around on the couch, they are capable of incredible speeds and should have the opportunity for regular exercise. Playing fetch in the yard and frequent walks should be routine parts of their schedule. If you let your greyhound off leash, ensure it is in a safe and fully fenced-in area. The greyhound will not be able to resist pursuing prey or wildlife around. 

Diet

Be sure to feed your greyhound a high-quaility dog food diet. They typically require a higher calorie intake than other dog species. If you are ever uncertain about a specific food for your dog, contact your veterinarian. 

Pros and Cons of Owning a Greyhound 

The Verdict 

While there may have been some debate in the past about greyhounds being good family dogs, people’s opinions are changing, and so is the image of the greyhound.  So, to answer the question, are greyhounds good with kids… yes. Greyhounds are a great addition to a family with children; however, they do better in families where the children are older. If you want to add a greyhound to your family, we recommend that your child is at least five years old and understands how to handle the dog respectfully. It is important to prepare your family and your home for the addition of your new furry friend. Once you do so, have fun adopting your greyhound and adding this new kid-friendly dog to your family.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©Haletska Olha/Shutterstock.com.

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With so many new health trends and ingredients gracing our shelves, it can be hard to keep up with all of the trends. Things like tempeh, kimchi, and kombucha are all over the media, and now there is another contender to add to your healthy mix. Enter the chayote. If you have never heard of a chayote, you are not alone; however, this is definitely a food that you are going to want to keep in your home. With its delicious flavor and full of nutritional benefits, this food will not disappoint. In this article, we will discuss all things chayote, from what a chayote squash is to how to cook it, its health benefits, and more!

What is Chayote?

Chayote (Sechium edule) is a member of the gourd family. This thick-skinned, bumpy green squash is originally from Mexico. Although most people eat it like a vegetable, chayote squash is technically a fruit. While the most genetic diversity of this plant is in Mexico, it is commonly available in the southwestern region of the United States. 

Where to Find Chayote Squash 

Now that you are interested in chayote, you may wonder where to find it. Chayote is available in most grocery stores and some markets. When looking for a chayote, you should remember that it comes in various shapes and sizes. It can range from cream to shades of green or even brown. Although the color varies, the majority of chayote will have a pear shape, as that is the most common variety. Some varieties have spikes, while others do not. Regardless of the spikes, all chayote skin types are edible. 

When selecting your chayote, for best quality, you want to look for one that is light to dark green in color and firm. With the chayote, softness is not an indication of ripeness or sweetness. Rather, it means that your chayote is beginning to turn. Additionally, you want to ensure your fruit is free of bruises and any signs of damage. 

Geography 

Chayote is not commercially grown in the United States. Most of the crop here is imported from Costa Rica, Guatemala, Mexico, and the Dominican Republic. The chayote that exists here is cultivated on a small scale and thrives in areas with warm weather, such as Florida. 

For Purchase 

Chayotes can be found in grocery stores and occasionally in the market. They are usually available between late summer and early fall. 

How to Cook and Store Chayote 

Before you start worrying about how to cook it, you are probably interested in what it will taste like, so you can start brainstorming recipes. Chayote squash has a mild flavor. It is a blend of an apple cucumber flavor with the crispness of a jicama. It has a slightly sweet flavor to it, but it is very subtle. This mild and cold squash is a wonderful addition to your dinner plate and is very versatile. 

Storing 

Chayote's thick skin allows it to last a long time before turning. It can keep up to four weeks in the refrigerator. You want to make sure that you refrigerate your chayote because it will shrivel if left out in dry conditions. The best way to store it is to place it in a container or bag and keep it in your fridge. 

Preserving 

If you think you will not be able to eat your chayote immediately, but you bought it with future intentions, have no fear. You can freeze your chayote. To properly freeze your chayote, you should wash it and remove the stem and blossom from the fruit. Then dice it and be sure to remove the seed. Water blanch your chayote for 2 minutes. Then cool, drain, and package it in a container, leaving some headspace. Once the container is sealed, you can freeze it. Frozen chayote can last up to one year. 

Cooking and Preparing 

This versatile fruit can be prepared in many ways. Many people keep it very simple by peeling, dicing, steaming, and draining it. Then add butter, seasoning, and lemon juice and eat it as is. Others use it in place of potatoes or for salad dressings. No matter what you are cooking, you want to prepare your chayote properly. It is imperative to always thoroughly wash your fruit before cooking with it. Additionally, in most cases, you will peel the fruit as well unless you plan on enjoying the skin in your dish. 

Health Benefits of Chayote Squash

The chayote squash doesn’t just pack a flavor punch; it also has a ton of health benefits! This vegetable is full of essential vitamins and minerals. Some vitamins and minerals it has are:

• Vitamin C 
• Folate 
• Vitamin K 
• Zinc 
• Potassium 

Not to mention that it is a great source of fiber. Being high in folate also helps to promote proper cell division. Folate is also important during pregnancy. Additionally, this squash is full of antioxidants. Antioxidants help to protect against cellular damage and lower stress in the body. 

Also, this squash may help protect your heart and control your blood sugar. Eating this fruit regularly helps improve high blood pressure and high cholesterol, both of which are risk factors for heart disease. Furthermore, it is low in carbs and high in soluble fiber, which can help to regulate blood sugar levels. 

If all of those benefits were not enough to entice you, how about the fact that chayote may have anticancer effects and can help reduce visible signs of aging? With all of these incredible benefits, it is definitely a food you want to include in your family’s diet. 

Chayote Recipes 

When cooking chayote, nothing has to go to waste. All parts of this fruit are edible. You can eat the roots, the leaves, even the seed. People use chayote for a variety of recipes ranging from soups and salads to salsas and baked goods. Here is a quick look at some simple ways to incorporate chayote into your kitchen. 

Chayote Side Dish

If you want to eat your chayote as a side dish all on its own, you can prepare it like this.

• Wash and peel your chayote
• Cut it into quarters
• Steam and drain
• Add butter and your choice of seasoning with fresh lemon juice 
• Serve

Fresh Vegetable Stew 

You can add your chayote to your favorite vegetable stew recipe. For your stew, you will want to wash, peel, de-pit, and chop your chayotes. In your stew, think of them like a potato in the sense that they would be one of your harder “vegetables.” It is a fruit but is often prepared like a vegetable in the kitchen. You will want to simmer it with your other chosen hard vegetables over high heat for 30 minutes. Add other ingredients according to your preference and the flavor profile of the vegetable stew. To make it creamer, you can add half of the stew to an immersion blender when you are finished. 

Stuffed Chayote 

Similar to a stuffed pepper recipe, you can stuff your chayotes with meat and other types of delicious foods. To do so, you would wash and boil your chayotes. Once properly boiled, you would drain them and remove their core and any fibrous parts or pulp. Then, you would stuff it with the ground meat of your choice. Get as creative as you’d like, adding cheese, garlic, rice, and whatever your family is in the mood for that evening. 

You can truly have fun with this food. It is the perfect addition to any soup and can be used to make salsas. It can even be thrown in your omelet in the morning. Whether you plan on making a small dish for yourself or serving it as a new side at your next Thanksgiving feast, this squash will surely be a hit with you and your family.

Fun Facts About Chayote Squash

• Chayote originated in Mexico and was cultivated by the Aztecs. 
• The vines of the chayote plant are used to make hats and baskets. 
• Chayote is particularly popular in the state of Louisiana. 
• Chayote is often referred to as the vegetable pear.

Your Chayote Checklist 

Here are some quick things to remember about chayote.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I eat chayote raw?

Yes, you can consume chayote raw or cooked. 

How can I prepare chayote raw? 

Oftentimes, chayote is used raw as an addition to salads or smoothies. Most people recommend peeling the chayote prior to consumption. 

Is chayote high in sugar? 

Chayote is not high in sugar. It has slightly more than 2 grams of naturally occurring sugar in it. 

Recipe Card

Healthy Chayote and Black Bean Stuffed Peppers

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• Author: MomsWhoThink.com
• Total Time: 45 minutes

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Ingredients

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• 4 large bell peppers, halved and seeds removed
• 2 chayotes, peeled and diced
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup diced red onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese (optional)
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine diced chayote, black beans, cooked quinoa, corn, diced tomatoes, red onion, minced garlic, ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
3. Place the halved bell peppers in a baking dish.
4. Stuff each pepper half with the chayote and black bean mixture, pressing down gently.
5. If using cheese, sprinkle it over the stuffed peppers.
6. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the peppers are tender.
7. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly (if using).
8. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Nutrition

• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 9 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Fat: 7 g
• Carbohydrates: 60 g
• Fiber: 14 g
• Protein: 15 g
• Cholesterol: 10 mg

The image featured at the top of this post is ©Regreto/Shutterstock.com.

The post What is Chayote Squash? How to Cook, Health Benefits, Recipes & More appeared first on Moms Who Think.