We All Scream for Ice Cream

With the economy in a slump this year, you might imagine that you’d have to give up some of your favorite things this summer. But if you plan ahead and are willing to make some simple changes, you can still enjoy this season without parting with too many buckeroos from the wallet. Take ice cream for example. What would summertime be without everyone’s favorite frosty dessert? But you don’t have to sacrifice great taste and good fun because everything is pricier in 2009. Forgo the ice cream truck that is making its nightly rounds in your neighborhood – the frozen treats aren’t that good anyway – and keep trips to the ice cream parlor to once or twice monthly ventures for special occasions. Instead, stock your freezer with a few favorite flavors of the cold stuff and stuff your pantry and fridge with various toppings, sprinkles, whipped cream, and cherries. Don’t forget to have a few Top This ice cream scoops on hand so that each family member can dive on in. Then, get your Family Sundae Nights scooping! Once you’ve built the creation of your dreams, corral everyone outside to watch the sun set and the fireflies dance on the lawn. Isn’t this more memorable than a frozen, tasteless cone from that ice cream truck?

What Memorial Day Really Means

When most people think about their Memorial Day plans, that Monday afternoon is usually filled with barbecued meat, a few cold ones, and good friends gathered together. Memorial Day is the unofficial kickoff to summer and people spend more time roasting weenies than actually recalling how this sober holiday came about. Memorial Day got its start during the Civil War and was first called Decoration Day when Southern ladies laid flags and flowers on the graves of Confederate soldiers. The very first official Decoration Day was observed in 1868. Memorial Day has evolved over the years and is now observed on the last Monday in May, but it encompasses the deceased from all major wars, not just the Civil War. So, this year, take a moment on Memorial Day Monday to reflect on those who have served and died for our freedom. Hang your American flag with pride. Wear a flag silicone bracelet to show your spirit. If you spot a soldier in uniform, thank him or her for the service given to this country. And remember, you are free to eat your hot dog under the American flag because of those who left their souls on the battlefields around the world.

It Just Ain't a Party without Balloons!

Tis the season for festivities of all kinds – graduations, weddings, cookouts, Father’s Day, Fourth of July celebrations, and the like. With the summer not far away, there are plenty of parties to look forward to in the coming months. From the simple – think of a barbecue with a few close friends – to the sophisticated – like a catered graduation party – nothing spells out celebration more than balloons. And balloons aren’t just for the tyke set anymore. You can easily spice up any party with balloons without dipping too far into your wallet, yet these balls of helium add a party-like atmosphere for even the simplest of gatherings. Include a rainbow of colorful latex balloons for a party without a theme or use the colors of your favorite sports team or school to brighten up your soiree. Stick with black balloons as a gag for a milestone birthday party. You can mix it up with some round mylar balloons, too. Tie these beauties to a chair for your guest of honor or use them as a bright and inexpensive centerpiece to your table. Decorate your mailbox out front so that your arriving guests know exactly where the party is. And remember, balloons rule!

Why Not Bag It?

Everywhere you look – whether it’s on TV or on online – someone somewhere is telling you what you can and cannot eat. Lately, it seems like everything is bad! Forget the pizza, burgers, and wings – too much sodium and fat. The delectable devil’s food cake that is calling your name has too many calories and carbs. Even your beloved iced cappuccino from the local convenience store is weighing you down. So, does man or woman really have to live on bread and water alone? Not at all! Instead of heading out to a fast food burger joint, pack your own lunch. Opt for tuna salad or turkey breast made with low-fat mayo on whole wheat bread with some romaine lettuce or coleslaw mix. Pop up some popcorn and munch on that instead of chips. If water is too boring, flavor it with fresh fruit like strawberries or lemons or add a splash of your favorite juice. Still bored? Add some low-calorie beverage mix to your water bottle for good taste. Don’t brown bag your exciting and tasty lunch – pack away that noon meal in your hot pink or black Koozie lunch sack. It’s insulated, so that tuna salad will stay fresh and cold, perfect for noshing.