Unique Zucchini Recipes

Summer is here, so you know what that means? Zucchini season isn't far behind! This year instead of sneaking zucchinis on to the doorstep of everyone you know, why not put your abundance of fresh veggies to work with these unique recipes. From a stew that makes great use of zucchini to  the tastiest zucchini fries, this list has something for everyone on it.

I am sure you are going to find a few recipes you want to save to your favorite pinterest board.

To be honest, I have never really eaten zucchini. My parents didn't grow it in their small garden when I was a kid. My grandpa was a farmer, and he just didn't like it, so he didn't grow it either. Over the last ten years or so, I have been finding myself in possession of various zucchinis that friends and neighbors have proudly presented to me, hoping I would enjoy them.

Sadly, they usually set on my counter for a few days to a week before I cut them into chunks and set them outside for the squirrels and birds. I have no idea what to do with them! Well, after curating this list of tasty recipes, I know I will put the next ones to work.

You can find some of my favorite recipes here:

Fool Proof Biscuits

Brown Sugar Overnight Oats

 Zucchini Stew by Veggies Save the Day

Mexican Zucchini Boats by Everyday Delicious

Baked Kale and Zucchini Pilaf by Small Farm Big Life

Zucchini Corn Fritters by Happy Kitchen

Aussie Zucchini Slice by The Vegan Larder

Summer Squash and Zucchini Frittata by Low Carb Yum 

Cold Zucchini Soup by Go Healthy with Bea

Crab Stuffed Zucchini I Save A to Z

Zucchini Stuffing by Crinkled Cookbook

Zucchini Ribbon Salad by What a Girl Eats

Zucchini Pie by Sparkles to Sprinkles

Baked Zucchini Fries by Swirls of Flavor

Find more great recipes here:

Fool Proof Biscuits

Peanut Butter Chocolate Cake Mix Cookies

Golden Graham Crumbl Copycat Cookies

Mason Jar Lasagna

Preparing for a Smooth Back-to-School Transition: A Guide for Parents

 Summer vacations are just about to get over, and it's high time for parents to prepare their children for a smooth back-to-school transition. As a parent, you need to prepare your child mentally, emotionally, and practically for the upcoming challenges.

Photo Credit:

https://www.freepik.com/free-photo/successful-child-with-graduation-cap-backpack-full-books_865577.htm

Know that every child is unique and the strategy for preparing them for a back-to-school transition may differ. While some children may feel excited to get back to school and meet their friends, some may feel anxious. So, yes, preparing for a back-to-school transition can become stressful for parents at times.

With that said, here we’ll discuss some of the best strategies to ensure a smooth back-to-school transition for your child and set up your child for success. So, let’s begin:

1. Establish A Routine

We know that it can be challenging for your child to shift from a relaxed summer sleep to a more rigid school schedule, but establishing a routine is crucial.

About a week before the first day of school after vacations, establish a bedtime schedule for your child so that he/she adjusts to the impending weekday routine.

Setting up a routine will help your child to regulate their sleep patterns and ensure they are well-rested for the hustle and bustle of the school’s daily life.

2. Buy School Supplies Early

Most parents often buy school supplies a day before the first day of school. What’s the point of waiting until the last minute and putting yourself in a stressful situation? What if you don’t get the item at the last moment?

So, to beat the rush and save yourself from unnecessary stress, buying school supplies 1-2 weeks before can be a good choice. For example, if you’re looking to buy new back to school clothes for your child online, make sure to book it at least two weeks before school starts. This is because you’ll get enough time to exchange it and get a new one, in case the size doesn’t fit well to your child.

Also, look for other school supplies, such as pencil cases, water bottles, lunch boxes, notebooks, pens, rulers, and other essentials.

3. Don’t Overlook Your Child’s Health

When preparing your child for back-to-school season, make sure you don’t overlook the importance of your child’s health.

Besides buying school supplies and setting up a routine, it is important to schedule necessary appointments to ensure your child is in good health. Also, encourage your child to adopt a healthy lifestyle by eating nutritious foods and getting sufficient sleep.

4. Visit The School and Meet The Teacher

If your child is young or new in the school, familiarize them with the school environment and meet the teachers. This will help them ease anxiety and create a sense of familiarity. Meeting the teacher will also help your child ask questions, if any.

Also, try to arrange parent-teacher meetings with your child’s teacher to introduce yourself and discuss any specific concerns or questions.

Summing Up

Going back to school after a long vacation can be challenging for your child. But with the right strategies and support, you can prepare your child for a smooth back-to-school transition.

4 Classy Fashion Accessories to Elevate Your Style

 Are accessories the last thing you put on when you start getting ready? If so, you must know that they can make or break your overall appearance. 

Whether you're planning for a special occasion or just want to elevate your everyday style, the right accessories can make all the difference, transforming your plain look into something extraordinary. 

However, with so many options out there, it can be challenging to know which ones elevate your outfits and make you look luxurious. That’s why we are here to help!

In this blog, we'll list four classy fashion accessories that are sure to enhance any outfit,

Scarves

Scarves are not new to the fashion world. Instead, they have been in trend for a long time. The only thing that has changed about them is the pattern, color, and draping style. 

Now, there are endless options to style a scarf to enhance your outfit. For instance, you can drape it around your neck for a classic and chic look. Or, you can tie it in a knot for a more casual and playful vibe. You can even wear it as a headband. 

The best thing about styling a scarf is that it goes with any outfit effortlessly, whether you want to pair it with a simple t-shirt and jeans or a formal dress. 

Jewelry

To add a touch of glamor to your attire, include luxury jewelry in your everyday style. Even so, when it comes to choosing the perfect jewelry for your outfits, there are many options available. 

From timeless diamond pieces to gemstone jewelry, you can choose any as per your style. And the best part, you can even get them customized as per your requirements. 

When styling your jewelry, don’t overwhelm yourself with too many pieces. Instead, opt for a few carefully selected items that complement each other. 

For instance, if you're wearing a classic little black dress, a diamond pendant can be the perfect centerpiece to elevate your look. 

Handbags

A designer handbag is more than just an accessory. It is a functional piece that holds your essentials and adds a touch of luxury to any outfit. 

From classic leather designs to trendy tote bags, there are countless options to suit your style and elevate your outfit. For a sophisticated look, pair a structured leather handbag with a tailored blazer and trousers. 

If you're going for a bohemian vibe, and are thinking of wearing a flowy maxi dress, opt for a rounded hobo bag. 

Belt

Oversized tops and pants are the latest trends, but they can sometimes make you look bulky. So, to enhance these outfits, you definitely need a belt. 

But that does not mean you have to limit yourself to a basic black belt. In fact, there are different shapes, sizes, and colors available for belts to elevate your look. The key is knowing how to style it to perfection.

For example, a belt can change a loose-fitting dress into a figure-flattering getup. Similarly, you can style it with oversized tops and pants. Simply tuck in the front of your top slightly and secure it with a belt at your waist. 

Last Words

Accessorizing your outfit with the right pieces can truly elevate your overall look. However, it's important to remember that the way you carry these additions is just as crucial as the accessories themselves. 

Even so, don't forget to wear them with confidence and a smile. 

Unique Potato Salad Recipes

 Summer potlucks and cook outs aren't complete until you bring out the potato salad! It is the required side for burgers, hot dogs, brats and friends! If you want to up your game and bring a potato salad that everyone will talk about long after the last bite has been devoured, then you are in the right place. I gathered 15  favorite potato salads to share with you. These recipes are unique and totally tasty.

You might want to check out a few other recipes while you are here. Some of my favorites include Golden Graham Cookies.  Sour Apple Margaritas are perfect with potato salad and all of the fixins for a BBQ.

Cesar Potato Salad by Sam Cooks Kindness

Warm Austrian Potato Salad by Cooking Gorgeous

Ranch Potato Salad by Spend with Pennies

Sweet Potato Salad by Plant Based Budget

Mashed Potato Salad by Feeding Your Fam

Instant Pot Potato Salad by Pressure Cooker Recipe

Vegan Southern Potato Salad by Strength and Sunshine

Eggless Potato Salad by Sugar and Snappeas

Salt and Vinegar Potato Salad by My Therapist Cooks

Loaded Baked Potato Salad by Centsless Meals

German Potato Salad by Like Mother Like Daughter

Classic Potato Salad with Eggs by Healthy Seasonal Recipes

Greek Lemon Potato Salad by The View From Great Island

Roasted Garlic Potato Salad by This Noshtalgic Life

German Dill Potato Salad by Served From Scratch

I hope you find plenty of opportunities to whip up one of these unique potato salads this summer. You might want to save this post to reference later.

Find more recipes here:

Best Dinner Rolls

Cherry Berry Pie

Instant Pot Banana Rice Pudding

Safe Travels: Expert Tips for Ensuring a Secure Vacation

 Embarking on a vacation is an exciting and fulfilling experience, no doubt. The thrill of meeting new people of a different culture or accent, seeing new places, and the idea of being absolutely free is something to look forward to. But amid that, it's essential to prioritize your safety throughout your journey.

By taking a few precautions and following the expert tips you’ll find here, you can enjoy a worry-free trip.

From planning and packing to navigating new destinations, let's explore expert recommendations that will help you travel with confidence and safety in check.

Do Your Research and Plan Accordingly

Before setting off on your adventure, spend time researching your destination. This is one of the most crucial steps you must never forget to take before going on to a new place.

Familiarize yourself with the local customs, laws, and any travel advisories or warnings. Make sure to check for any health-related concerns or necessary vaccinations. That’s because some air- and water-borne diseases are more prevalent in certain areas. Planning ahead will give you a better understanding of what to expect and help you prepare accordingly. If you plan to do some activities as well, it's helpful if you do some research on them as well. For example, if you plan on doing water sports, you can visit a website like Trigg surf forecast to check if your destination has the optimal condition for your sport.

Remember that every destination has its fair share of scams and risks targeted at tourists. Research common scams in the area you're visiting and learn how to recognize and avoid them. This will make you cautious when approached by strangers offering unsolicited help or deals that seem too good to be true. It's also a good idea to familiarize yourself with the local transportation system and any potential risks associated with it.

By staying informed and vigilant, you can reduce the chances of falling victim to scams or encountering unnecessary risks.

Secure Your Belongings

Protecting your belongings is crucial during your travels. Invest in a sturdy and reliable lock for your luggage, and consider using a money belt or hidden pouch to keep your valuables secure. When in public spaces, be mindful of your surroundings and keep your bags close to you.

Additionally, make copies of important documents such as your passport, visa, and insurance details, and store them separately from the originals.

Stay Connected and Share Your Itinerary

Maintain regular communication with friends or family back home. Share your travel itinerary, including flight details, hotel reservations, and any planned activities. This way, someone knows where you are at all times. Stay connected through phone calls, text messages, or apps that offer international calling or messaging options.

Keep Emergency Contacts Handy

Before you embark on your trip, make a list of important emergency contacts and keep it easily accessible. Include local emergency numbers, your country's embassy or consulate contact information, and the contact details of your travel insurance provider.

No one likes to think about it, but accidents may occur at any time, prompting you into an emergency. But what if you or your loved ones are left with life-threatening injuries all because of a reckless driver? Or your car gets destroyed? Having the contact of a respected car accident lawyer handy can be your best bet to recover compensation. In the middle of the emergency, you can contact them so they can gather fresh evidence to prove your case against the at-fault party.

Blend In and Respect Local Customs

When traveling to a new destination, strive to blend in with the local culture. Dress appropriately and respectfully, following local customs and traditions. Avoid wearing expensive jewelry or displaying large amounts of cash. You don’t want to draw too much attention.

By respecting the local culture, you'll not only enhance your safety but also foster a positive connection with the community you're visiting. Fewer chances of harassment.

Stay Vigilant and Trust Your Instincts

Pay attention to your surroundings and trust your instincts. If a situation feels uncomfortable or unsafe, remove yourself from it. Avoid walking alone in unfamiliar or poorly lit areas, especially at night. Use reputable transportation options, such as registered taxis or ride-sharing services.

Purchase Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is a crucial investment that provides financial protection and peace of mind. It covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost or stolen belongings, and other unforeseen events. Research different insurance options and select a policy that suits your needs and destination. Ensure that it includes adequate medical coverage, especially if you're traveling to a remote or high-risk area.

 

A secure vacation is within your reach by implementing these expert tips. Research and planning, securing your belongings, staying connected, being mindful of your online activities, respecting local customs, staying vigilant, and having travel insurance will contribute to a worry-free and memorable travel experience. After ticking all the boxes, you can embrace your journey with confidence, knowing that you've taken the necessary precautions to ensure your safety.