Nilla Wafer Bark

 

Make this no bake Nilla Wafer Bark the next time you crave a sweet that is soft, crunchy and delicious! It is made with common pantry staples to make a fast candy that everyone is sure to love.

This recipe is so easy you might want to get the kids in the kitchen to help you prepare this for a dessert to enjoy at home, or a treat to share with friends.

I love to make homemade bark. My husband Adam loves candy, so these kind of recipes are always a hit at home. This one is no exception; it is easy to whip up when you realize a sweet is needed, and no matter what you have on hand, I know you are going to come up with something totally tasty.

1 cup of white chocolate chips

1 cup of sprinkle white chocolate chips

1 cup of vanilla wafers

1 ½ c large marshmallows (or about 12)

½ tsp crisco or coconut oil

Directions:

1. Line a baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Add vanilla wafers to the baking dish.
3. Add marshmallows to the dish.
4. Melt white chocolate chips, sprinkle chocolate chips and crisco together over a double boiler, or in the microwave. Stir often. When the chocolate chips can be stirred smooth, remove from heat.
5. Pour the melted white chocolate over the contents of the baking dish.
6. If needed, stir everything around to completely cover with melted white chocolate.
7. Stick in the refrigerator for about 45 minutes, or until the white chocolate has hardened.
8. Cut into chunks and enjoy.
9. Store leftovers in an airtight container.

Keep this easy recipe on hand for those times that the pantry is bare, or maybe you just crave candy but don't have the time to dash to the store. This also makes a great homemade gift to share at the holidays with a candy lover in your life.

If you are looking for more homemade bark recipes you won't want to miss these favorites.

Easy Rudolph Bark

Melted Snowman Bark

Grape Nuts Bark

Nuts About Cookies Bark

Fruity Pebbles Bark

Best Places To Visit In China During Vacation in 2023

 

If you're looking for a unique and exciting travel destination for your next vacation, China should definitely be at the top of your list. With a rich history and culture, breathtaking natural landscapes, and bustling modern cities, China has something for everyone. Here are some of the top places to visit in China during vacation in 2023.

Beijing - Explore the Historical and Cultural Capital of China

As the capital of China, Beijing is a must-visit destination for any traveler interested in history and culture. The city is home to some of China's most famous landmarks, including the Great Wall of China, the Forbidden City, and the Temple of Heaven. Beijing is also known for its traditional Hutong neighborhoods, which offer a glimpse into traditional Chinese life. The city is a great place to sample Chinese cuisine, with everything from street food to high-end restaurants. Looking for the ultimate travel experience in Beijing? Look no further than our selection of China vacation rentals, offering luxury amenities and prime locations for your dream getaway.

Shanghai - Experience the Modern and Cosmopolitan Side of China

Shanghai is China's largest city and one of the most exciting destinations in the country. Known for its futuristic skyline, bustling nightlife, and world-class shopping, Shanghai is a great place to experience modern China. The city is home to some of China's most famous attractions, including the Bund waterfront promenade, the Oriental Pearl Tower, and the Shanghai Museum. Visitors can also explore traditional Chinese gardens, such as the Yuyuan Garden, and sample local cuisine, including Shanghai-style dumplings.

Xi'an - Discover China's Ancient Past

Xi'an is a city that is steeped in history and is one of the oldest cities in China. The city is best known for the Terracotta Warriors, an army of thousands of life-sized clay soldiers that were buried with the first emperor of China. Visitors can also explore the ancient city walls, the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, and the Muslim Quarter, which is home to some of the best street food in China. 

Guilin - Experience China's Natural Beauty

Guilin is a city located in southern China that is known for its stunning natural scenery. The city is surrounded by karst limestone mountains, which have been eroded over millions of years to create unique rock formations and caves. Visitors can take a boat cruise down the Li River, hike through the Longji Rice Terraces, or explore the Reed Flute Cave.

Chengdu - Get up Close and Personal with Pandas

Chengdu is the capital of China's Sichuan province and is known for its spicy cuisine and as the home of the Giant Panda. Visitors can visit the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, where they can see pandas up close and learn about conservation efforts to protect this endangered species. Chengdu is also home to traditional teahouses and the Leshan Giant Buddha, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Hong Kong - City Where Chinese and Western Connects

While technically a Special Administrative Region of China, Hong Kong has its own distinct identity and is a popular destination for travelers. Visitors to Hong Kong can take in the breathtaking views from Victoria Peak, explore the colorful neighborhoods of Central and Sheung Wan, or shop for designer goods at luxury malls like The Landmark or Harbour City. The city is also known for its food scene, with everything from traditional Cantonese dim sum to international cuisine available at a range of prices.

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park - Must-See Destination

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is a stunning nature reserve located in the Hunan province of southern China. The park is known for its towering sandstone pillars, which rise up from the forest floor like something out of a fairy tale. In fact, the park's unique landscape is said to have inspired the floating mountains in the movie Avatar. Visitors to Zhangjiajie can explore the park's many hiking trails and admire the breathtaking scenery. One of the most popular hikes is the Tianmen Mountain Skywalk, a glass walkway that offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

Conclusion

China is a vast country with a rich history and culture, stunning natural landscapes, and modern cities. These are just a few of the top places to visit in China during vacation in 2023, but there are many more destinations to explore. Whether you're interested in history, nature, or modern cities, China has something for everyone. With so much to see and do, a trip to China is sure to be a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Discover the Best of China with Karta vacation rentals.

The History of Escape Rooms: From Japan to Edmonton

 

Escape rooms have become increasingly popular over the past decade, but did you know that their origins can be traced back to Japan in the early 2000s? In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at escape rooms' history, and how they have evolved into the thrilling experiences we enjoy today.

The first escape room, known as a "Real Escape Game," was created in Japan in 2007 by Takao Kato of the Kyoto-based company SCRAP Co.

The game was inspired by Japanese online games requiring players to solve puzzles to escape a virtual room. Kato decided to take this concept and bring it to life, creating a physical space where players could collaborate together to escape a room and solve puzzles within a set time limit.

The game was an immediate success and soon spread throughout Japan, with SCRAP Co. opening escape rooms in Tokyo and other major cities.

In 2012, SCRAP Co. brought the game to San Francisco, and it quickly became popular in the United States as well. From there, escape rooms began to spread around the world, with the first escape room opening in Budapest, Hungary, in 2011.

Escape rooms quickly gained popularity due to their unique and immersive experience. Players are transported to a different world and must use their problem-solving skills and teamwork to escape a room before time runs out. In addition, the puzzles and challenges are designed to be engaging and thought-provoking, providing a sense of accomplishment when solved.

Escape Rooms in Edmonton

As the popularity of escape games continued to grow, more and more companies began to create their own versions, each with its own themes and challenges.

Today, there are thousands of escape rooms worldwide, including many in Edmonton, Canada.

In Edmonton, escape room activities have become a popular attraction for locals and tourists alike. 

With a wide variety of themes and challenges, there is something for everyone, from horror-themed rooms to family-friendly adventures. Some of Edmonton's most popular escape rooms include Escape City, The Locked Room, Escape Hour, and SideQuests.

Conclusion 

Escape rooms have come a long way since their inception in Japan in 2007.

From a single game to a global phenomenon, they have captured the imagination of people around the world with their unique and immersive experiences.

Whether you're a puzzle enthusiast or just looking for a fun and challenging adventure, an escape room is the perfect activity to try out with friends or family.

How to dress comfortably and stylishly during summers

 Summer is the time you should flaunt your style and grace. However, the scorching summer heat can leave you feeling uncomfortable and sweaty. When this happens, you might want to avoid wearing your usual dresses or pants, but you still crave some classy style. When the weather gets hot, your head feels like it's being roasted in an oven. If you want to stay comfortable but look fashionable, then this article is for you!

Comfort is as important as style 

Loose clothes are more comfortable, as they allow air to circulate and don't restrict your movement. Loose clothes such as oversized graphic tees will also help you look stylish without compromising comfort.

Wear clothes that fit loosely, especially during summers when the heat index can reach up to 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit). Loose clothing allows air circulation and does not get in the way of work or other activities like playing sports or going for a walk with friends.

Wear breathable fabrics like cotton

Cotton is a natural fibre, so it's better for your skin than synthetic fabrics. It also breathes better than other fabrics, which means that you'll be comfortable in the heat without feeling like you're suffocating. Cotton comes in many styles and colours so there's something for everyone! You can find it in shirts, pants or shorts - even accessories like hats and socks!

Tops for summers 

Avoid wearing tops that are made of synthetic fabrics such as polyester, nylon and acrylic. They trap heat so you'll feel hot even if the temperature is low outside. Avoid wearing anything too tight on your body as they will make you sweat more than usual. It can make it hard for air to flow through your clothes easily which can result in feeling uncomfortable. 

If possible avoid wearing short-sleeved shirts altogether since they won't provide enough protection against UV rays coming from above ground level. However, there may be some exceptions where a short-sleeved shirt might work well depending on what kind of activity one is doing at the moment 

Bottoms for summers

Shorts and skirts are an easy way to stay comfortable and fashionable. They're also great because they give you more freedom of movement, which is crucial during the summer months. Dresses that flow in the wind are another excellent choice for summer clothing. Light pants are great because they keep you cool and don't weigh down your legs as much as heavier pants do when it's hot out. 

Conclusion

As the summer nears and temperature rises, what better way to beat the heat than to dress in a comfort mode? Comfort means different things to different people. Each one of us has our definition of comfort that depends on our taste and lifestyle. Some people like to dress according to the latest trends while others put comfort as their top priority. We hope you enjoyed this article on how to dress comfortably and stylishly during summer. We know that the weather outside can be pretty hot and humid, but we also know that there are ways around it! 

How to WORK With the Skin You Have

 You wake up in the morning, and take a look in the mirror. You see your face looking back at you, and for a moment you feel like you're not seeing yourself correctly. You pinch your skin, pull at your cheeks, and do whatever else it takes to try to convince yourself that this isn't really you. But it is- there's no denying it. This is your face, for better or worse. And as much as you might wish that you could just press a button and change everything about how your skin looks, that's not going to happen. So what do you do? How do you work with the skin that you have?

Photo by Joel Muniz on Unsplash

Take Care of Your Skin From the Inside Out

The best way to ensure that your skin looks its best is to make sure you're eating a balanced diet and drinking plenty of water. Eating nutrient-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats will help nourish your skin and keep it looking smooth, supple, and youthful.

Use Gentle Cleansers and Moisturizers on Your Face

Choose products specifically designed for your skin type (oily/dry/normal) to ensure they are not too harsh or irritating. Look for non-comedogenic ingredients that won't clog pores. Use lukewarm water when washing your face in order to avoid drying it out too much. And pat dry with a soft towel.

Protect Your Skin From the Sun

Wear sunscreen daily to protect your skin from harmful UV rays, which can cause premature aging. Make sure you are using a product with an SPF (sun protection factor) of at least 30 and apply it generously to all exposed areas at least 20 minutes before going out in the sun. Reapply every two hours or after swimming/sweating for optimal protection.

Treat Yourself to Facials and Peels

Regular facials and peels help to remove dead skin cells, clear clogged pores, and rejuvenate the complexion. Be sure to talk to your esthetician about what type of treatment is best for your skin type in order to avoid over-drying or irritation.

Make Time to Relax

Stress can cause a variety of skin problems, so be sure to make time for yourself and find ways to relax. This could include going for a walk, taking up yoga or meditation, reading a book, or whatever else helps you unwind.

How to Dress Your Skin

Choose clothing that is comfortable and breathable to prevent sweating and irritation. Natural fabrics like cotton are a great option, as they allow your skin to breathe and move more freely than synthetic fibers.

Different Types of  Makeup

Choose makeup that is designed for your skin type and tone. Always start with a base primer to help create a smooth canvas, then add concealer and foundation as needed. Avoid using heavy products that may clog pores or cause irritation. At the end of the day, be sure to remove all your makeup with a gentle cleanser. This will help prevent acne breakouts, as well as allow your skin to breathe while you sleep.

Common Skin Care Mistakes

Avoid over-washing, which can strip the skin of its natural oils and cause dryness. Also, avoid picking or popping blemishes - this can damage the skin and lead to scarring. Finally, don't forget to apply moisturizer - even if your skin is oily or acne-prone. Moisturizing will help keep your skin healthy and hydrated.

Normal Skin Type

If you have normal skin, then congratulations! This is the ideal skin type. To maintain your complexion, be sure to follow a regular cleansing and moisturizing routine, wear sunscreen daily, eat a balanced diet, and get enough sleep. With the right care, you can keep your skin looking healthy and radiant for years to come.

Oily Skin Type

If you have oily skin, look for products specifically designed for your type of complexion. Use a gentle cleanser twice daily to remove dirt and oil buildup, and stick with oil-free moisturizers. Also, use blotting papers throughout the day to help absorb excess oils. Finally, be sure to wear sunscreen when going outdoors.

Dry Skin Type

People with dry skin need to be extra careful with their skincare routine. Use lukewarm water when washing your face and avoid over-scrubbing or using harsh cleansers, as this can strip the skin of its natural oils. Gentle cleansers and creamy moisturizers are best for this skin type. Additionally, drinking plenty of water will help keep the skin hydrated and healthy.

Sensitive Skin Type

If you have sensitive skin, then it's particularly important to be gentle with your skincare routine. Use hypoallergenic products designed for sensitive skin, and always perform a patch test before applying any new product. Additionally, avoid excessive sun exposure, as this can cause irritation or even allergic reactions. To keep your skin looking its best, use mild cleansers and gentle moisturizers on a regular basis.

Eczema 

Eczema can be a difficult condition to manage, but there are steps you can take to help alleviate the symptoms and keep your skin healthy. Use mild cleansers and avoid any fragrances or dyes that might irritate the skin. Additionally, look for creams or ointments with an active ingredient like cortisone or hydrocortisone, as these can help reduce itching and inflammation. Finally, wear loose-fitting clothing made of natural fabrics to allow your skin to breathe. However, if you are skin of color, you may want to specifically look for products made for your skin type. Click also on this article, Eczema On Skin Of Color: Appearance, Symptoms, And Treatment, for further information on how to treat this condition depending on your skin type.

Acne  

If you're dealing with acne, it's important to take a gentle approach. Use oil-free cleansers and avoid scrubbing your skin too harshly, as this can irritate the area. Additionally, use topical treatments such as benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid to help treat breakouts. Lastly, be sure to get plenty of sleep and drink lots of water to keep your skin hydrated from the inside out.

Rosacea  

Rosacea is a chronic skin condition that can be difficult to manage. To help reduce flare-ups, use gentle cleansers and apply sunscreen whenever you go outdoors. Additionally, look for products specifically designed for rosacea, such as creams or serums containing ingredients like green tea extract or niacinamide. Finally, speak to your doctor about any potential triggers and lifestyle changes you can make to help minimize the symptoms of this condition.

Psoriasis  

Psoriasis is a skin condition characterized by red, scaly patches on the body. To help manage this condition, use moisturizers to soothe dryness and irritation. Additionally, try to avoid any potential triggers such as stress or certain foods. If necessary, your doctor may recommend topical treatments or light therapy to help reduce flare-ups.

Premature Aging

If you're concerned about premature aging of your skin, there are steps you can take to help prevent it. Be sure to wear sunscreen whenever going outdoors, eat a balanced diet full of antioxidants and vitamins, and avoid smoking cigarettes or drinking too much alcohol. Additionally, look for products containing vitamin A or retinol as these can help stimulate collagen production to maintain a youthful appearance.

Dark Spots

Dark spots can be caused by sun exposure, but they can also be hereditary. If you want to reduce the appearance of dark spots, look for products containing ingredients like vitamin C or hydroquinone. Additionally, avoid any excessive sun exposure as this can worsen the condition. While it may take some time before you start seeing results, with proper skincare and patience, you'll gradually begin to notice an improvement in the appearance of your skin.

Photo by Alina Scheck on Unsplash

All skin types require different levels of care and attention. To keep your skin looking healthy, it's important to identify the specific needs and create a skincare routine for yourself that fits those needs. Be sure to use gentle and natural products, avoid triggers like stress or certain foods, get plenty of sleep, drink lots of water, and wear sunscreen when going outdoors. With the right approach, you'll be able to maintain healthy-looking skin for years to come!