Frugal living

Winter Drives You Shouldn’t Miss

January 9, 2019 by Heidi Leave a Comment

Winter Drives You Shouldn’t Miss

We are notorious for traveling over the winter because there are so many unique family vacation ideas. But instead of flying we usually drive so that we can see more of the country as we travel. Yes, winter travel has it’s own set of challenges, but Mr. LWH is a former truck driver so he has nerves of steal and does most of the driving. Here are winter drives that shouldn’t be missed!!

Yosemite

Snow-capped mountain peaks, frosted trees, and icy waters all reflected in a crystal blue sky. Yosemite is perhaps the quintessential winter drive location and should absolutely not be missed.

Yellowstone Falls

If it were even possible, the famous Yellowstone Falls are even more majestic during the winter. The water spray takes on almost a ethereal look, while the frozen tree branches glisten with ice.

Lake Tahoe

A popular location for skiing, Lake Tahoe offers a beautiful winter landscape along it’s winding roads. With the sun gleaming off snow-covered branches, reflective waters, and a night sky that is breathtaking to behold, this is definitely a must-see winter drive.

Great Smoky National Park

Spreading from Tennessee to North Carolina, the Great Smoky Mountains offer a picturesque view perfect for a winter road trip. Take in the sights of nature covered in a blanket of white, from the tops of the trees to the mountain view.

Skyline Drive

One of the most revered drives in the nation, the Skyline Drive in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia leaves absolutely nothing to be desired. Very few think to drive along this ridge of the mountains during the winter, so the roads are clear and the view is amazing. At the top of the Blue Ridge Mountains, all you can see is a magical Winter Wonderland all around you.

Seward Highway

Listed as one of the “Ultimate Road Trips” by National Geographic Highway, Seward Highway is a 125-mile journey through beautiful Alaska. During the winter, drive along this beautiful expanse of highway with reflective waters on one side and snowy mountain peaks on the other. Every last mile of Seward Highway is a sight to behold year round, but especially during the winter.

Across America, there are multiple opportunities for picturesque drives through this great country. During the winter, however, the scenery goes from picturesque to almost magical. Make your next road trip this winter, and visit these must-see winter drives that shouldn’t be missed.

Be Pepared for Winter Travel

All of these are gorgeous to see, but you must be prepared for driving in the winter weather. I strongly urge you to not go anywhere like this without having four wheel drive, roadside assistance and of course a winter survival kit in the vehicle at all times. Don’t forget your portable chargers, hand warmers and of course to regularly maintain your vehicle before going. For all of our vehicle needs we trust our local dealerships and mechanic. But if you happen to be in Kentucky my friends at Steve Jones Dodge Chrysler Jeep and Ram Dealership will have you covered.

Tips for Safe and Healthy Winter Travel

January 8, 2019 by Heidi Leave a Comment

Tips for Safe and Healthy Winter Travel

Winter holidays are always a busy time of the year. But for the LWH family it seems like we are always traveling for family visits, weekend getaways, and of course vacations when we can fit them in. But with holiday travel comes a few more germs and of course winter weather driving which is a little more difficult to navigate. Here are some great tips to help you and your family travel safely and stay healthy at the same time.

Wash Your Hands

Germs are everywhere and traveling by vehicle, trains, or planes means there are lots of germ sharing going on. Washing your hands frequently with warm soapy water is a great germ fighter. In our vehicles we always have anti-bacterial sanitizer and use it frequently.

Bundle Up

When you are out and about during your winter travels, make sure that you are wearing the proper clothing. Protect yourself from harsh winds, snow, and rain. If you are trekking through the woods to pick out the perfect tree, for example, make sure you are wearing the right shoes to keep your feet warm and dry.

Car Safety

If you are driving to your destination, make sure you are following all of the proper car safety guidelines such as wearing seatbelts, etc. For long road trips, make sure to have your oil and other fluids checked. Keep an emergency kit in the event of an accident and always have the phone number for roadside assistance handy.

Drive Safely

Another part of car safety is, of course, driving safely. Many people, especially those that live in warmer climates that don’t necessitate driving in winter weather, do not know how to maneuver in the event of ice or snow on the roads. Remember to follow traffic rules and give yourself some extra time to get to your destination.

Air Travel

Air travel is pretty notorious for being a source for colds and flu everywhere. Wash your hands and keep them away from your face. I always bring wipes to clean surfaces in my seat and of course the tray in front of me to help keep germs at bay. Remember to drink lots of water to help your body stay hydrated and prevent illness too.

Stay Healthy

Eating a healthy diet with lots of fresh produce, getting plenty of vitamins, and staying hydrated on a daily basis are the key to staying healthy year round. A healthy diet, exercise, proper sleeping habits, and hydration are all part of a healthy immune system and can help you prevent illness even during the holidays when germs are ever present.

Keep your holidays merry and bright with these tips for safe and healthy winter travel. No matter where you are going or how you plan to get there, you can arrive safe and sound and avoid getting sick with these tips.

For all of your automotive needs be sure to check out Speedway Auto Group.

Paypal Cash Giveaway

January 7, 2019 by Heidi 1 Comment

Paypal Cash Giveaway

Happy New Year! The year is off to a busy start here at our house, and we are enjoying some serious grandbaby cuddles every chance we get. While it means we are getting older, it also means we are in the best stage of our life right?? Anyway, enough about me, let’s talk about this awesome giveaway!!

I have partnered with several bloggers to bring you a $60 Paypal Cash Giveaway that is open World Wide. Don’t want Paypal? That’s ok too! We can send you an e-gift card of your choice!

Giveaway Information:

Giveaway will run from 1/07/19 7:30 pm est to 1/15/19 11:59pm est

This Giveaway is open to 18 years and older,
US for $60 PayPal CASH!!

You can enter below, and Good Luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclosure:
We reserve the right to make revisions, to cancel, or suspend this contest for any reason. We are not associated with any of the companies named above. The odds of winning are based on the number of entries received Open World Wide but you must be 18+. Confirmed Winner(s) (by Random.org) will be contacted by email. Winner(s) have 24 hours to respond before a new winner is chosen. No purchase necessary. Void where prohibited by law. The sponsor(s) will be responsible for product shipment to winner(s) of this giveaway. This event is in no way administered, sponsored, or endorsed by, or associated with, Facebook and/or Twitter, Google, Pinterest. This disclosure is done in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 10 CFR, Part 255 Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements. Entrants must only enter with either one email address, IP address and/or Facebook account, anyone found violating these rules will be disqualified. It is at the sole discretion of the admin of the giveaway if the winner has met the rules or not.

No time to cook? Get a Mealthy!

While you are here check out the Mealthy Pot and how great they are. They are a huge time & money saver making them a win win in any kitchen. But some of our favorites include chili, chicken and dumplings, and of course roast and potatoes. It is an essential in my kitchen and will be in yours too!

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Tips for Safe Winter Driving

January 4, 2019 by Heidi Leave a Comment

Tips for Safe Winter Driving

Driving in the wintertime is a completely different ballgame than your everyday driving. There is snow and ice to contend with, including black ice that you can’t even see. Add to that dealing with other drivers that aren’t quite sure how to drive in winter weather, and driving can be downright dangerous.

Here are some tips for safe winter driving so you can feel safe on the roads.

Take Your Time

One huge factor in safe winter driving is not to be in a hurry. Keep your speeds a little below the speed limit, and definitely do not speed. Keeping it slow and steady is how you’re going to get to where you need to be. Driving too fast can lead to spinning, losing control, or not being able to stop fast enough.

Keep Your Distance

Keep in mind that your stops might take you a little longer than usual, especially because you won’t want to slam on the brakes for fear of skidding. Try to keep a safe distance from other vehicles, not only so you don’t skid if you have to make any sudden stops, but also because you don’t want them to hit you.

Be Gentle

Keep your speed low and your braking steady. Avoid slamming on the brakes or making sharp turns because they can lead to losing traction. Instead, be a gentle driver and make calculated and steady turns and movements.

Don’t Get Cocky

It’s never a good idea to assume that your vehicle can handle any kind of weather or that you will be able to control your vehicle if things go south. Make safe decisions and know when to just stay home.

Learn How to Skid

In icy weather, slips and skids are notorious for leading to bigger accidents, often because the driver does not know how to maneuver their car. In the event of skidding, remain calm. Do not slam on the brakes or turn your steering wheel erratically. Instead, slow down gently and turn into the skid. If your rear wheels are skidding left, turn your wheel towards the left slightly. You might find that you skid back and forth for a few moments before the car regains control.

Be Patient

Avoid being in a hurry and passing other vehicles. Especially after a big snow, you are bound to get caught behind a plow or truck, but it is best that you do not try to pass them. First of all, you could be putting yourself and other drivers in danger. Secondly, the roads are likely much worse ahead of that road worker.

Handle Sticky Situations

Getting stuck is another issue to contend with when it comes to winter driving. Many people try to step on the gas to get unstuck, but you will likely just make things worse. Instead, try easing forward or backing up slowly. During the winter, it is a good idea to carry a bag of something for traction such as rock salt, sand, or kitty litter.

Know When to Call for Help

To keep yourself and other people safe, know when to give up and call for help. Keep the number for roadside assistance with you at all times, or keep a card in your glove box.

Driving during harsh winter weather can be a daunting task, but with these tips you can stay safe and get to where you need to go.

Be sure to check out Lustine Toyota for all of your automotive needs.

Drivers: Don’t Forget to Check the Antifreeze

January 3, 2019 by Heidi Leave a Comment

Drivers: Don’t Forget to Check the Antifreeze

Winter driving brings out the worst case scenarios in my head and before the winter hits we always take the time to prep our vehicles. One of the easiest and most important tasks to prepare your vehicle for winter driving is to inspect the level and freshness of your vehicle’s antifreeze. One of the most important jobs antifreeze has is to keep the engine from overheating but also from freezing in the winter. Who knew antifreeze had such a valuable job?

While I do know how to check the anti-freeze levels in our vehicles, I never have to do it because it falls onto Mr. SMSL. It is recommended that you check your anti-freeze levels every 12 months, but here it is done once a month. In the winter months it is especially important to keep it checked and at the proper levels as well as fresh. In order to check your anti-freeze levels you need an antifreeze ball tester, a jug of antifreeze and a little know how. But it is easier than it sounds because the antifreeze ball tester shows you just how much antifreeze you need to add or if it is just right.

But checking the antifreeze isn’t the only thing you need to check. Be sure your battery is fully charged because the cold weather is a heavy drain on your battery. Double check your windshield wipers and make sure they are in good condition. Brushing snow and ice off wears them out so always carry an extra jug of windshield wiper fluid and make sure the reservoir is always full. This will allow you to keep the windows clear and keep your line of vision clearer.

Now remember earlier, we talked about antifreeze and the other thing you want to be sure to have checked is your defroster and heater system. The anti-freeze works with the heater and defroster so those kind of go hand in hand. Tires are also vitally important because snow and ice means slick roadways. If you have good all season tires or snow tires you will be a step ahead of the game. Just remember to keep these items in your car for just in case scenarios.

Snow Scraper
Deicer (this stays in my purse so it’s never frozen)
Blankets
Extra hats, mittens, scarves
Small shovel
Sand or cat litter to help with traction)
boots and coveralls
And the “survival” kit

Before you leave home clear your car off completely and drive slowly to reach your destination. My general rule of thumb is no more than 40 mph on snow packed roads and if someone wants to pass me more power to them. When there is ice on the road I stay of the roads if at all possible. But if you can’t drive even slower than you normally would, brake and turn slowly to help you stay in control of your vehicle. Be sure to check out Tedd Britt Chevrolet for all of your automotive needs.

By following these tips above you can have a safe winter driving season and don’t forget to check your antifreeze.

Everyday Injuries: How to Protect Yourself from The Most Common Personal Injuries

December 8, 2018 by Heidi Leave a Comment

Everyday Injuries: How to Protect Yourself from The Most Common Personal Injuries

You might already know that the most personal injury claims come from car accidents and many drivers take proper precautions to avoid being involved in a car accident. There are several other common “everyday injuries” that many of us may not think about or know how to prevent them from occurring.

Here are some of the most common personal injuries and a few tips to keep yourself safer.

Slips, Trips and Falls

Slips, trips, and falls can happen virtually anywhere. Whether you’re walking your dog and trip over an uneven sidewalk, slip in a puddle of water at the grocery store, or fall on a patch of ice in a parking lot, these accidents can result in fractures or TBIs.

Slips, trips, and falls are also the most common injuries in the workplace. According to Joel T. Hamilton, a workers’ comp lawyer in Rock Hill, SC, a work-related injury like a slip or fall may require days missed from work and filing for temporary disability benefits.

The best way to avoid a slip, trip, or fall is to wear proper footwear with good tread, pay attention to your surroundings, and follow any safety procedures in the workplace. If you notice a slip, trip, or fall hazard, notify someone right away to prevent someone else from getting injured.

Dog Bites

Whether you’re walking your dog in your neighborhood or even visiting a friend’s house, you could receive a bite from a stray dog or a dog you know quite well. Many dog experts have differing opinions as to why some dogs bite, but the injury can be serious.

Not only can dog bites result in a serious injury, but as the VA personal injury lawyers at SRGS law remind us, dog bites can have long-term psychological effects and severe injuries in children or elderly individuals.

Although it can be difficult to know if and when you’ll be bitten by a dog, you may reduce your chances by being careful around unfamiliar dogs and stay calm. Always ask to pet a dog before you do and train your dog to be gentle, particularly around children and strangers.

Injury from A Defective Product

Whether we’re purchasing appliances for our home or toys for our children, we expect them to be safe. Injuries from a defective product may include a minor burn, and according to Wrongful death attorney in St. Louis, MO, Benjamin J. Sansone, a defective product may even result in death.

While it can be nearly impossible to know whether or not a product you buy will cause injury or harm to you or your loved ones, you can stay up-to-date on recalls on the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) website or register products with the company when you buy them.

If you receive a product that’s defective, it’s important to report the product (even if you haven’t been injured) to help others stay safe. You can report the product to CPSC, or you can contact the manufacturer directly.

Finding the Perfect Diamond for You

November 27, 2018 by Heidi Leave a Comment

Finding the Perfect Diamond for You

Who doesn’t love diamond shopping? But as fun as the process can be, finding the right diamond at the right price can be something of a challenge. To ensure that you get the perfect diamond for you, keep the following quick guide in mind as you begin your search.

Clarity

The perfect diamond is attractive from any distance and under any light. One of the primary factors that determines this attractiveness is clarity. The fewer inclusions visible in any given diamond, the more desirable the stone is considered. Diamond clarity is measured on a scale of “I”to “F,” with “I” stones featuring imperfections that are visible to the naked eye. In contrast, “F” stones are flawless, with no imperfections visible even under magnification. As you shop for your new diamond, you will soon see that the most affordable stones are generally the least aesthetically pleasing. When it comes to clarity, try to avoid “I”diamonds at all costs, gravitating towards stones that rate at least “SI” (slightly included) or higher.

Color

Just as stones that feature visible imperfections are considered unattractive, stones that are more yellow than clear are seen as highly undesirable by diamond enthusiasts. The diamond color scale goes all the way from “D” to “Z,” although diamonds rated below “M” are not generally marketed by mid to high-end retail stores. As you decide how important your diamond’s color is to you, keep in mind the kind of setting you plan on purchasing. When set against yellow gold, diamonds in the affordable “G” to “J” range will appear mostly colorless. In contrast, white gold is less forgiving, and platinum even more so, highlighting any color imperfections by juxtaposition.
Fluorescence

Under ultraviolet light (such as natural sunlight) some diamonds can manifest an oily appearance or a yellow tint. Because this can significantly devalue an otherwise attractive stone, keep fluorescence in mind, particularly if you are purchasing an uncertified diamond. Uncertified diamonds are generally pre-owned, and are often much cheaper than their certified counterparts. To avoid purchasing a stone for more than it is worth, however, request to view any uncertified stone in natural light or under a UV lamp prior to purchasing.

Fancy Diamonds

Fancy diamonds are stones that are colored, either by natural or artificial means. Fancy diamonds range significantly in value, with artificially colored stones generally fetching similar or lower prices to their clear counterparts. Natural colored diamonds, however, can often be worth more than clear diamonds, particularly in rarer manifestations of natural color. Red diamonds, for example, are highly sought after and hard to find.

Carat

Carat simply refers to the size of a given diamond, and is often considered less significant that clarity, color, and cut factors. Although large, low-quality diamonds undeniably have some “bling” appeal, they are generally seen as less desirable than smaller, high-quality stones. Of course, personal taste plays a factor here as well. If you prefer larger stones but don’t want to mortgage your house to buy one, opting for a lesser-quality stone is likely your best option.

Cut

The perfect diamond reflects nearly all the light around it, appearing sparkling, brilliant, and fiery. Diamond cut is graded from poor to excellent, with poor-cut diamonds often appearing dull and lifeless in contrast to their more dynamic counterparts. If your perfect diamond sparkles in the light, then be sure to make cut a priority as you shop!

Knowing the basics of how to choose a diamond, can make you feel more confident in your ability to shop around and find the perfect one for your needs. Your diamond should be a treasure for life, so it’s important to make a well informed purchase.

Power Smokeless Grill

November 22, 2018 by Heidi 1 Comment

I received a Power Smokeless Grill in exchange for this post, however, as always opinions are 100% my own.

Power Smokeless Grill

The kitchen is somewhere I spend lots of my time and while I love cooking, I also like the break from doing the work as well. Over the last few months, I’ve been telling you all about some great products from Copper Chef and just when I thought I had all of the kitchen items I needed they added another appliance. The Power Smokeless Indoor Grill. Say WHAT!?? It couldn’t have arrived fast enough. Then, life happened.

Our daughter was on bed rest starting at 34 weeks, with the goal to get her to 37 weeks at a minimum, but longer if she could. Her husband works out of state, so our Empty Nest became a “fuller nest” once again. We moved things around, purged some things, got the spare dumping grounds back into “guest” order and we waited. And by waiting I mean waiting on her hand and foot, trying to keep that little guy in there at all costs. After 3 successful weeks of bedrest, the decision was made to induce her and after a really long labor/delivery a c-section was in order. Our little guy and our daughter were safe and sound and that is all that really mattered.

After delivery, I went to their house for a few days to help because he was their first baby. Then, when it was time to return to work, Liz and baby Elijah moved back in with us. He’s been here about a month, and it seems like the last 2 months I haven’t had time to think let alone cook and make pretty pictures. But things are returning to our new normal once again, and I wanted to tell you all about my latest Kitchen gadget the Power Smokeless Indoor Grill.

YES, it’s really Smokeless!

That is the number one question I had before I used it the first time. I was convinced that my kitchen would fill up with smoke and the smoke detectors would go off. But they don’t. This grill and griddle is a lifesaver in the winter months because you can have grilled food, without having to freeze to grill it. How is it smokeless? The AirFlow Technology with a smoke capture fan makes cooking a breeze, with virtually no smoke!

The Power Smokeless Indoor Grill is Easy to Clean!

The Power Smokeless Indoor Grill is easy to clean, a breeze to take apart, and super simple to put back together. But my absolute favorite part is that it is dishwasher safe!

Griddle and Grill

The Power Smokeless Indoor Grill has an extra large grill surface that is 13.5″ X 8″. It even has Non-Stick Interchangeable Grill & Griddle Plates making it my go-to for breakfast, lunch, and dinner nine times out of ten!

Easy to Regulate

The Power Smokeless Indoor Grill is easy to regulate and is adjustable up to 450° F. It even has an LED Smart Temperature Control making it easy to operate.

What can I cook?

Eggs, Bacon, Pancakes, Quesadillas, Meat, French Toast, Hashbrowns, Burritos, Cheesesteaks, Grilled Cheese, Pizza, Burgers You name it, it can probably be cooked on it. But when you receive your Power Smokeless Indoor Grill it comes with 2 Recipe Books that have lots of yummy meals to choose from!

Pick up your own Power Smokeless Indoor Grill at your local stores or order online. I promise you will be head over heels in love the first time you use it!

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