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Free (Or Nearly Free) Entertainment Ideas for Every Week of the Year

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A lot of people ask me, “If you don’t watch TV and you choose to limit movies, clubs, restaurants, etc. in order to save money, what do you do for entertainment? Aren’t you bored?” I usually look at them, dumbfounded, because to me there is too much to do and boredom is never a problem. I have never struggled to find inexpensive or free entertainment.

However, I understand that those who are used to relying on “prepackaged” entertainment may have a problem at first identifying all the fun, free things there are to do in and around their communities. When I first turned frugal, I wasn’t aware of all the things I could do, but I’ve learned over time. So, for those who are looking for more free/inexpensive things to do, I offer this list:

Free Entertainment Ideas for Every Week of the Year

1. Free museums. Some paid museums have free days, and some museums are always free. Call around to the museums in your area and ask. Some also sponsor free outings to local points of interest.

2. Read. The library is a great source of free books. Yard sales, flea markets, and book sales are great sources of very cheap books. Websites such as PaperbackSwap.com allow users to trade books just for the cost of postage.

3. Movies. Yes, I said movies. Some community groups, libraries, and museums show free movies. Many towns have a dollar theater that shows first-run movies cheap. Some libraries lend DVDs. You can also find DVDs for almost nothing at yard sales and flea markets (many times for a buck or two), and then you can resell or swap them for something new. Even renting with Redbox is much cheaper than going to the theater.

4. Take the kids to the community playground. You don’t have to go to a restaurant with a playground or a pay-to-play indoor park. Many communities have nice playgrounds that are free.

5. Go to the park. Whether it’s a park with a playground (see number 4) or a state park, there are lots of recreational opportunities at a park ranging from walking/hiking to picnicking to just sitting and reading or people watching.

6. Ride a bike. Depending on your area, a bike ride might be a good way to spend some time outdoors.

7. Go for a walk in your neighborhood. If you walk alone, it gives you some quiet time. If you walk with friends or family, and it’s a chance to connect while getting some exercise.

8. Get some friends together for a game. Gather your friends for a game of baseball, basketball, football, tennis, frisbee, or soccer game. Many communities have sports facilities that can be used by the general public when not in use for league play.

9. Live music. Some community groups and museums offer free concerts and some up, and coming bands play for free at local bars and clubs (with no cover charge). Look for open mic nights that attract up and comers.

10. Potluck or progressive dinners with friends. If you prefer something indoors, consider getting together for a meal.

11. Local theater. Some community players offer free performances to test a program before launching it on a paying audience. High schools and universities are also good sources of free theater.

12. Local historical sites, battlefields, or historic homes. Most are free, low cost or “request” a small donation.

13. Swim. Some communities offer free or low-cost public pools. Others are blessed with swimmable lakes.

14. Lectures. If you live near a university, free lectures are always offered on a variety of topics. Even without a university, many communities feature appearances by authors, actors, and others.

15. Free magazines. Check out the magazines at your local library.

16. City. Many communities offer tours for new residents or visitors. Most are free. Tag along, and you might learn something new about your area.

17. Art galleries. Many offer free showings.

18. The library. In addition to being a source of free books, most host free children’s programs and adult workshops on a variety of topics. Check their schedule for more information.

19. Craft events. Many craft sorts such as Michaels or AC Moore offer free classes and projects for both kids and adults.

20. The local bookstore. Many offer readings by authors or open mic nights for poetry or short fiction readings. Some offer story times for kids. You can also read magazines and books without making a purchase, although this privilege shouldn’t be abused.

21. Community festivals. Many communities have festivals such as spring flings, agricultural celebrations, music festivals, craft showcases, or celebrations of local heritage. Most are free to attend.

22. Parades. Christmas, Thanksgiving, St. Patrick’s day or local band days bring out parades including music and other performances.

23. Holiday celebrations. In addition to parades, many communities offer free activities such as fireworks on the 4th of July, egg hunts at Easter, or free New Year’s Eve parties.

24. Camp out. If you already have a tent and some sleeping bags, an overnight camp out at the local park or in your yard is a fun, inexpensive change of pace.

25. Church. If you’re religious, church can be a great source of free activities such as outings, exercise classes, crafts, and book groups.

26. The animal shelter. This is a great place to play with some animals without incurring the expense of owning one. Many shelters need volunteers to exercise the animals, so ask if you can help out. You’re doing something good for the animals and having some fun at the same time.

27. The zoo or aquarium. For more animal fun, try the local zoo or aquarium. Most are very inexpensive and many offer significant discounts to those who purchase memberships, good for more than one visit.

28. Board games, cards, and puzzles. These are inexpensive ways to pass an evening as a family. You can find lots of used games at yard sales and thrift stores, or maybe someone in your family has some that they are looking to get rid of. Even purchased new, these are inexpensive compared to the amount of entertainment you get out of them.

29. Take up an inexpensive hobby. Writing, poetry, origami, organizing the family photos, genealogy, certain crafts, etc. are all inexpensive ways to pass the time. Even cooking, while not always inexpensive, can be a frugal hobby because you get to consume the results of your labors.

30. Pick your own produce or cut your own Christmas tree. Yes, you have to pay for what you pick/cut, but you’d be buying food at the store anyway, right? Many pick your own places also offer other things like tram rides, corn mazes, petting zoos, crafts, holiday activities or performances by local groups.

31. The farmers market. Again, you have to pay for what you buy, but some farmer’s markets offer gardening classes, local performers, or holiday celebrations.

32. Public gardens. Most communities have public gardens where you can walk amongst the flowers and trees. Particularly stunning in spring.

33. Business tours. Some large companies offer free tours of their facilities, which can be interesting and might end with a free sample of the company’s products.

34. Free/low cost classes. Some community colleges or extension programs offer free classes or workshops. Even if you have to pay, the cost is usually small. Free classes or workshops are also available at some stores, such as home improvement classes at Home Depot or Lowes.

35. Minor league, college, or high school sporting events. These aren’t usually free (although some low profile college or high school sports offer free admission), but the cost is nothing when compared to major league sports.

36. Join a club. There are many clubs dedicated to all kinds of interests. Most offer free membership or nominal dues to cover operating expenses. Book clubs, Red Hat’s for senior women, clubs for people with or without kids, game clubs, sporting clubs, business clubs, are just a few examples.

37. Listen to podcasts. There are tons of good podcasts available for free. Some are funny, some are educational, and some are political. There are topics for every interest. Some are available on iTunes for free and others can be downloaded directly from websites that interest you.

38. Take the dogs to the dog park. If you have a dog park nearby, this is a good chance to get out and get some exercise and bonding time with your pet.

39. Don’t overlook the obvious attractions of your area. If you live near the mountains, you’ve got winter fun all sewn up — sledding, snowshoeing, skiing, hiking, etc. Same if you live near the coast — you’ve got fishing, beach trips, shell collecting and sandcastle building. Sometimes when you live near a natural haven for entertainment, it’s easy to forget what you have at your disposal.

40. Keep cheap entertainment on hand for the kids. Avoid rainy or snow day desperation by keeping things like coloring books, activity books, crayons, card games, craft ideas and supplies, DVD’s borrowed from the library or purchased cheaply, unread books, etc. on hand.

41. Go to the mall. No, not to shop (and be certain you can resist the temptation before you go or this tip’s worthless). Malls sometimes offer performances by school musical groups, they likely have a free indoor play area for rainy days, or you might see a fashion show. During holiday periods, you can visit Santa or the Easter Bunny. Some stores, like the Apple Store, offer free classes and instruction on their products. It’s a good place to walk if the weather is bad and people watching is always entertaining.

42. Recapture a little of your childhood with your kids. Catch fireflies in the summer, play on the swings, build roads to nowhere in the dirt, play in the sandbox, feed and watch the birds, collect rocks, etc. These simple pleasures are often overlooked in our electronic age, but they are fun for kids and low cost.

43. Yard sales and flea markets. Yes, if you buy you have to pay, but it’s entertaining and free to just look around. Sometimes there are even freebies to be had. If you have a need, you can score some great deals in the process.

44. Write a letter. Letter writing is a lost art in the age of email and cheap long distance, but it’s still fun to receive a handwritten letter from someone you care about. Write to a friend or family member that you don’t see often and update them on your life and just remind them that you care.

45. Free computer games. If you have high speed Internet access, there are a lot of free games available online. Just beware of viruses, spyware, etc.

46. Music. In addition to free concerts (#9, above) there is free music to be had that you can put on your iPod or burn to CD. iTunes offers a free download or two each week. Up and coming bands often post free songs on their websites so you can sample their wares. You can listen to many radio stations from other states or countries as free streaming broadcasts. Just remember to never illegally download or copy copyrighted music.

47. County or state fairs. Admission to many is free, while some charge a small fee. Once you’re in the gate, there’s usually no additional charge to walk the grounds and look at the exhibits or see the animals. Most only require that you pay extra for the rides and the food. If you skip the rides and pack a picnic lunch, this can be a free or cheap day out.

48. Video games. No, video game consoles aren’t cheap, but if you already have one and some games, you can pass many hours playing. Rent games or buy them cheap on the used market. If you have friends with different games or consoles, invite them over and play against them, or take your console to their house. It’s a great way to try different games and consoles while having some cheap fun.

49. The local arts center. Many communities have an arts center that hosts art exhibitions, offers art, dance or other classes, and has activities for kids. The offerings are usually ever changing and free or inexpensive.

50. The senior center. If you’re age appropriate, many areas have a senior center that offers free classes, outings, and activities just for your age group.

51. Know what you’ve already paid for. If you live in an apartment complex or housing development, you may have access to a recreation center with exercise equipment, games, game tables, movies, or areas in which you can host gatherings that your rent/dues pays for. Your development may also offer special activities such as pool parties or cookouts that are open to all residents. Make sure you keep abreast of any offerings that you’re already paying for and get the most out of them.

52. Volunteer for something you find fun. Maybe you can volunteer as an usher at a theater and see the performance for free. Or, consider volunteering at the senior center and playing cards with other people. Libraries are also great places to volunteer, plus you get to check out the new books before anyone else. Whatever you find fun can probably be turned into a volunteer activity.

The thing about free or frugal entertainment is that it isn’t always the most obvious choice. There likely isn’t a neon sign pointing you to the free museum like the one that’s pointing to the multiplex. You have to search out some offerings by looking in local papers or visiting local websites, but it’s worth your time. There’s plenty to do that’s free or low cost; you just have to accustom yourself to hunting out these jewels rather than automatically reaching for your wallet.

Do you have any free or nearly free ideas for entertainment? Share with us in the comments below.

Dorm Room Storage Hack-Amazing Products for More Space

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In the US, there are approximately 20.4 million college students. While not all of them choose to live on-campus, many do.On average, the price of room and board at a public institution is $10,800 per year. At private colleges and universities, that rises to $12,210. In most cases, that gives access to around 100 square feet, and they may have to share that space.  In order to make the room better try a dorm room storage hack.

However, if you bring the right items along, any dorm room can be more comfortable. Finding ways to sneak in storage options is a must, and using the space wisely makes a lot of difference. With that in mind, here are a few amazing products that can make any college dorm room more livable.

Bed Risers

When you need to create storage space in a dorm room, bed risers can make a world of difference. These products go under each of the legs of the bed, lifting it off the ground.

You can find them in different heights, allowing you to choose a size that works best for you. Some even come with power outlets. Simply plug them into the wall outlet that sits behind the bed, and you can easily access the plugs.

After you select your risers, you can choose storage boxes that will fit into the space. You can find a variety of options, including under bed bins with wheels for easier access or foldable ones that are more convenient to store when not in use.

Door Organizers As a Dorm Room Storage Hack

Shoe organizers that hang on the door give you extra storage pockets without sacrificing floor space. They come with hooks that slip onto the top of the door and usually don’t interfere with the door’s operation.

Fabric versions are great if you need to store items discretely. Clear door organizers are ideal if you need to see everything stored in the pockets.

They can hold anything from shoes to toiletries to school supplies to snacks. Consider getting one for every door for maximum storage efficiency.

Command Hooks and Strips

Most college dorms have strict rules about hanging things on the walls. Many don’t allow nails or thumbtacks, and some even restrict standard tape.

Usually, the restrictions are there to ensure the students don’t damage the walls during their stay. However, if you need to store items on hooks or hang pictures, Command Hooks and Strips are usually allowed.

Command hooks and strips are available in a range of sizes, typically denoting different carrying capacities. You can hang hats, scarves, bags, and keys for the hooks, while the strips make putting pictures on the wall a breeze.

Plus, when you leave the dorm, they peel off the wall without damaging the surface, ensuring you can get your deposit back.

Bed Caddies

Most dorm room nightstands are small, and some don’t have one at all. If you need to keep items like your cell phone, glasses, or a favorite book near your bed, pick up a bed caddy.

These little pouches have a flap that fits between the mattress and the box spring. Once you set up the bed caddy, the weight of the mattress keeps it in place.

In most cases, you can add a few along the edge of the bed, giving you additional storage for small items.

You can also find bedside trays that attach to the frame. This can give you an extra surface for drinks and other items, just like a nightstand would.

Shower Locker

If you share a bathroom with a roommate and want to keep your toiletries in the bathroom secure, consider getting a shower locker. They stick to shower walls with suction cups and have internal shelves for additional storage.

Plus, they have combination locks on the door. This means your roommate won’t “accidentally” use your shampoo or other items because they can’t access them.

If your bathroom walls are entirely tile, you can actually put up a few. Then you can protect all of your personal hygiene items, ranging from your toothbrush to your razors to your face wash.

Wire Storage Cubes

Whether you need additional shelves in a closet or a way to organize items along an empty wall, wire storage cubes can be a great option. They come in pieces so that you can configure them in a variety of ways. Plus, putting them together is easy, usually not requiring anything more than a reasonably strong grip.

You can even set up the top row as baskets instead of shelves, allowing you to easily store items that might not sit upright on their own.

Silverware Organizer

Silverware organizers can do more than just hold forks and spoons. They are excellent for keeping desk drawers arranged, giving you sections for pens and pencils that prevent them from rolling around.

They can also work as jewelry storage, letting you keep necklaces and earrings separated. If you set one near the door on a table, it can make a great drop zone too. You can keep your keys and similar small items in different sections, so you always know where to find them.

Ultimately, all of the dorm room storage options above can help make a dorm room feel more comfortable. Consider giving them all a try, especially if you are sharing an incredibly small space with another student. This is another great dorm room storage hack.

 

Do you have a favorite dorm room storage hack? Tell us about it in the comments below.

 

Looking for more great articles about college? Here are a few to get you started:

 

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How to Save Money on Kids Clothes for Summer and Fall

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<img src=" Save Money on Kids Clothes.jpg" alt”foldedkidsclothes">

In 2018, there are approximately 73.8 million children age 0 to 17 in the US. As of 2016, around 42.31 percent of households had kids living there.

Most families spend between $12,350 and $14,000 a year when raising a child, which is no small sum. Finding ways to keep costs low is critical for many households, particularly those with lower incomes or a higher number of kids.

Children’s clothing can be an excellent budget item to examine when you need to save money. Since many kids outgrow their clothes fast, you have some options that don’t work as easily for adults. If you want to find quality clothing for your child without breaking the bank, here’s what you need to do.

Think Secondhand to Save Money On Kids Clothes

Since most kids outgrow their clothes quickly, you can find gently used items for a fraction of the price of buying new. Thrift stores, consignment shops, and online stores like ThredUp and eBay can be a great source of children’s clothes.

If you want to get the most value, head out to thrift and consignment stores near affluent neighborhoods. Most people donate to shops near their homes, so you may find higher quality items by trekking to the right stores.

In some cases, you can trade in your children’s old clothing at consignment shops and receive store credit, helping you lower the total even further.

You can also check out the free section of Craigslist or sign up for Freecycle. Some people simply want to offload their child’s old clothes, so you might be able to get some without having to pay a dime.

When shopping online, you do need to be cautious. Closely examine the images to look for signs of damage. Additionally, take a look at the shipping prices. While the item’s price may be low, exorbitant shipping and packaging fees can quickly offset any savings.

Hit Discount Retailers

Stores like Ross Dress for Less and T.J. Maxx can help you save a bundle on new items. In most cases, these stores carry styles from previous years or pieces that didn’t sell as well in traditional stores. The retailers acquire the clothing at lower costs and pass some of the savings onto you.

Walmart and Target can also qualify as a discount department store since the prices are usually lower than some of their counterparts. Just make sure to look at the quality of the item before making a purchase.

Amazon also has low-cost clothing. However, you need to be careful when it comes to quality. Third-parties can sell items from lesser-known manufacturers, so the low price might indicate cheaper materials or craftsmanship. Seek out clothing from brands and sellers you trust, and focus on items that can easily be returned if they don’t meet your expectations.

Shop Season-End Sales

At the end of every season, clothing items that don’t carry over usually go on sale or clearance. This presents you with two ways to save.

First, if you want to prepare for next year, you can scoop up low-cost clothing in bigger sizes than your child wears today. That way, if they grow a bit, the items may still fit.

Most clothing for sale in spring also works well for fall and vice versa. You’ll find lighter weight long-sleeved shirts and layering options at lower prices, letting you hold onto them until the weather cools.

Alternatively, you can integrate the clothing into other seasons. For example, summer t-shirts are great as layers under hoodies, flannels, or similar items. Just look for images or patterns that work year-round, and you have great options for completing fall outfits.

Reach Out to Friends and Family

If you have friends or family members with children who are older (or bigger) than yours, see if they have gently used items they would be willing to give you. You can also organize a trade if you have clothing that may work for their kids.

Parents groups can also be a great source of used clothing, especially if everyone is in your local area. Arrange a clothing swap and invite everyone to bring items they don’t need in exchange for taking home pieces that work for their children.

All of the techniques above can help you save money on kid’s clothes for summer and fall. Give them a try and see which options work best for you.

 

Do you have a tip for saving on children’s clothing? Share it in the comments below.

 

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Discounts for Savvy Senior Shoppers

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<img src=" Discounts for Savvy Senior Shoppers.jpg" alt”apiggybankonastackofmoney">

Today, more than 108.7 million Americans are over the age of 50. And, out of that group, approximately 47.8 million of them are age 65 or older.

Once you reach age 50, you become eligible for a range of senior discounts. More of them become available as you get older, particularly by the time you get to Social Security’s current minimum retirement age of 62.

Whether you already qualify for senior discounts or are just planning for the future, taking advantage of the savings is a smart move. They can save you money on a range of purchases, helping you stretch your retirement dollars even further.

While requirements for a senior discount vary by retailer, some of the discounts are substantial. Here are some of the best available.

Movie Theaters

The vast majority of movie theaters, including major chains, offer ticket discounts to seniors. For example, AMC provides discounts to moviegoers over the age of 60. Regal Cinemas also use 60 as the cutoff. At Cinemark, the minimum age is 62, and the cost reduction is only available on specific days that vary by theater.

Many theaters allow seniors to pay matinee prices all day long. This can be a boon for movie fans, and you don’t have to do anything but show them a picture ID to qualify.

Even local theaters may offer discounts. If you don’t see one posted, then ask the cashier to let you know what is available.

Cruises

Seniors can also score discounts on a range of cruises to popular destinations. Carnival offers reduced room rates to travelers 55 and older, although the specific amount of savings may vary depending on the ship and destination, and not all cruises qualify — click here to see which ones do.

Royal Caribbean has a similar system: People age 55 and up can receive discounted rates, though typically only on specific trips.

Grocers

Some large retailers offer seniors some serious discounts, but only under specific conditions. For example, Fred Meyer takes 10 percent off of apparel, shoes, home goods, toys, auto, and garden purchases. Store brand groceries are also eligible, as well as many electronics purchases.

If you are 60 or older and shop at Harris Teeter for groceries, make sure to go on Thursdays. That way you can enjoy a 5 percent discount on your entire purchase. Hy-Vee offers a similar arrangement on Wednesday, but with additional restrictions including requiring you to have a senior discount card.

Retail Chains

Goodwill thrift stores have senior days about once a week — when people 55 and up save 20 percent. Precisely which day is senior day varies by location, so you’ll need to check with your local store to find out.

Kohl’s provides a 15 percent discount for anyone 60 or older on Wednesdays. All you need is a valid picture ID to qualify.

If you enjoy crafting, then consider shopping at Michael’s: it gives shoppers age 55 and older 10 percent off every day. Just present a photo ID when checking out and request the discount.

Pep Boys, the auto parts retailer and service shop, provides a 10 percent discount with an ID showing you are at least 55.

Restaurants

Denny’s and IHOB offer senior discounts through their senior menu. Typically, the meals are smaller than some of the other options, but they are pretty generous for the price. On top of that, Denny’s offers an AARP discount, giving you the chance to save even more.

National Parks

The national park system offers anyone who is at least 62 a lifetime pass for $80. This gives you entrance into any and every national park for the rest of your life, no additional payment required. The pass also gives you 50 percent discounts on amenities like camping spots and boat launches.

Public Transportation

Most public transit systems offer discounts to seniors. Usually, this makes bus and subway passes substantially cheaper.

In many cases, you don’t have to live in the area to qualify. This can be a great way to get around a city when traveling, particularly if you don’t want to drive in an unfamiliar area.

AARP Discounts

If you want to get access to a wider range of senior discounts, then it behooves you to join AARP; people age 50 and up are eligible for full membership, and those under that age can get associate memberships that still enable you to get all the discounts.

Joining does come with a cost, though it is fairly minimal. For your first year, if you sign up to auto-renew, you only pay $12. After that, it should cost no more than $16 annually, according to current prices.

However, by signing up, you can easily make your money back in discounts. Many restaurants, car rental companies, hotels, cell phone carriers, and retailers give AARP members a percentage off the cost of their services.

Glasses and Car Rentals

Typically, an establishment that offers an AARP discount will reduce the cost by at least 10 percent. However, some go much higher. For instance, Pearle Vision knocks 30 percent off a complete pair of glasses and 20 percent off of the price of contacts. You can also save up to 30 percent on Avis car rentals in some locations.

If you are open to ordering glasses online, Glasses.com knocks 25 percent off of their prices for AARP members for purchases over $200. If you spend less than $200, you still get a discount, but it’s lowered to 15 percent.

There are many, many more AARP discounts out there, too. Luckily, AARP tracks them all on its website, making it easy for members to make sure they can save as much as possible.

Plenty of Discounts for Savvy Senior Shoppers

You might be able to obtain plenty of other discounts just by asking around — if you’re at least 55, it doesn’t hurt to ask your favorite stores for senior discounts.

They’ll be able to tell you the requirements, including age minimums, shopping days, and whether you need to be an AARP member to qualify.

Readers, tell us about the best discounts you’ve found lately.

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Your Dad Might Like These DIY Father’s Day Gifts

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<img src=" DIY Father’s Day Gifts.jpg" alt”tablewithgiftonit">

Don’t get sucked into the marketing hype around the holiday coming up this Sunday: Your dad might appreciate presents that you make more than anything you buy in stores — DIY Father’s Day gifts turn out to be more fulfilling for all involved.

You end up saving money because you can probably make these gifts with items you already have — or for a minimal investment. Plus, these efforts usually don’t require a lot of skill nor time to pull off, yet the result ends up being truly special.

DIY Father’s Day Gifts

Here are 10 different gift projects you still have time to complete in time for Father’s Day.

Customized Coasters

Your dad might appreciate a set of customized coasters. One way to make them begins with unfinished wood slices.

Create unique designs on them following a single theme. You can use paint or a wood burner, either freehand or using stencils.

Another approach involves putting photos into premade glass coasters. This takes less time and artistic effort to complete.

Necktie Pouch or Case

A necktie pouch is like a change purse made from a tie — a very masculine way for a man to hold on and keep smaller items secure. This gift is ideal for dads who travel or need help staying organized.

You can use an older tie — find one at a thrift store, or purchase a cheap one on Amazon. Even if you don’t know how to sew or don’t have a sewing machine, you can still put this together with minimal effort.

You can also make an eyeglass case from a tie, and you don’t even need to make any major cuts to the material aside from trimming the narrow end. In addition to sewing, you’ll need to find a snap or velcro to give it a way to seal up. Use a set of glasses to help you determine what size to make the case.

Tablet Case

If you’re handy with a sewing machine, consider making a tablet case. Choose a type of fabric that won’t scratch the device.

Essentially, you just need to create a pouch with a closing flap — look up the dimensions of the device he owns so you can make a pouch that’s the right size.

Focus on his favorite colors to make the gift special, or add a monogram to the front, so everyone knows not to touch his tablet.

Barbecue Rub

If your father is a barbecue maestro, consider creating a custom rub for all of his grilling needs. You can find a number of recipes online, allowing you to choose one that speaks to his taste. Then, just put the spices in a glass mason jar or similar airtight container, add a personalized tag, and you’re done.

Pre-Shave Oil

This one’s pretty easy: Simply mix one part grapeseed oil with one part olive oil. Then, add a few drops of essential oil, like sandalwood or cedarwood, and mix thoroughly. Put it in an attractive glass bottle (preferably brown in color) and add a label.

Beard Balm

Moisturizing balms are great for rough and unkempt facial hair, while also benefitting the skin. All you need to make this gift is ¾ ounces of beeswax, ½ ounce shea butter, a ½ cup olive oil or grapeseed oil, some essential oils — such as bergamot, clove, or lavender — and a nice tin to put the final product in.

This one takes a little bit of time to prepare: use a double boiler to melt the wax. Then add the oil and stir to combine. Then add the shea butter. Stir it all together, add a few drops of his favorite essential oils, stir it again, and then pour it into the gift tin.

Popcorn Seasoning

You might be able to make popcorn seasoning with ingredients you already have on hand. Then, all you need is some spice containers.

Not sure what to make? Try a spicy mix: Combine 5 teaspoons of salt, 2 teaspoons of garlic powder, 10 teaspoons of chili powder, 5 teaspoons of cumin, and 5 teaspoons of paprika.

Looking for something with less kick? Here’s a savory flavor: Combine 1 teaspoon of salt, ½ a cup of grated parmesan cheese, 1 teaspoon of garlic, and 4 teaspoons of dried thyme.

Grilling Supplies Rack

If your dad likes to grill, he might appreciate this gift that you can make from wood scraps or pallets.

Just nail a few boards together and affix supports on the back. Add some hooks on the front, and paint a fun message on the front. Don’t forget to add a way to hang the board on the back so he can display your gift on the wall.

Why Not Try?

All of the DIY Father’s Day gifts above are fairly easy to make, and they don’t require a big investment. Why not give one a try? Your dad will probably love it.

Readers, what kind of plans are you making for Father’s Day this year?

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Summer Allergy Update: Homeopathic Remedies for Allergies

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For most of the country, the worst of 2018’s allergy season has come and gone, but that doesn’t mean everyone is out of the woods just yet.

In early June, tree pollen will likely peak in northern New York and into New England, according to AccuWeather.

Furthermore, grass pollen will also increase in the southeast and mid-Atlantic regions. This means allergy sufferers could still be struggling this time of year.

Homeopathic  Remedies for Allergies

While prescription and over-the-counter medications can provide relief, some prefer a more natural route. Luckily, there are a variety of home remedies that can help. Here are some options for keeping your symptoms at bay.

Nasal Irrigation,

Options like neti pots and nasal washes flush materials out of your sinuses, which can reduce your exposure to allergens. Typically, they use a saline solution and purified water to break up mucus and remove irritants, like pollen.

Using a neti pot can feel odd at first, as you have to allow the rinse to enter one nostril and exit the other. Additionally, you need to make sure that you don’t use them with tap water, which can introduce risks.

Butterbur

Butterbur is a plant extract that may reduce inflammation of your airways. One study by Swiss researchers showed it was as effective as two over-the-counter antihistamines (cetirizine and fexofenadine) at reducing congestion and runny noses.

If you decide to use Butterbur, it has to be in an extract form. In its natural form, butterbur has dangerous compounds that can harm the liver, but they’re removed during processing.

Honey

Many praise honey for its health benefits. When it comes to allergies, one of the things honey can do is ease a sore throat. By swallowing a spoonful, it can calm irritation and coat the tissues, providing relief.

Try to source your honey locally, since that might help you build to pollen proliferating in your area. However, it would take time for a tolerance to develop. Note also that research on this topic is sparse.

Hot Showers and Steam

A hot, steamy shower can do wonders for the sinuses. But, for allergy sufferers, the benefits may be twofold.

Not only will you be able to unclog and clear your sinuses but showering also removes allergens from your skin and hair, reducing your exposure. This also decreases the likelihood that you will transfer the allergens to other items, like pillows and furniture.

If you just need the sinus-clearing benefits, you can also try a facial steam. You can use a facial steam device or simply heat some water and put it in a bowl. For the maximum effect, drape a towel over your head to catch the steam. You can also add eucalyptus oil to the water to reduce inflammation. Just be careful not to get too close to the water, or you can get burned.

Tea

Drinking tea can also provide allergy sufferers with relief. Since a hot cup of tea produces steam, that can help open nasal passages.

If you choose peppermint tea, you may also get some decongestant and expectorant benefits. Green tea may also have antioxidant properties that can reduce allergic reactions, albeit slightly.

However, if you are allergic to ragweed, avoid chamomile tea. It can cause a similar allergic reaction, so avoiding it is best.

Air Filters

If you need to make your home a sanctuary, install a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter on your HVAC system. If you don’t have central air conditioning, you can also purchase portable air cleaners that do the same thing.

These filters capture pollen in the air, ensuring it doesn’t circulate through your home. You will need to change the filter regularly to get the most benefit. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions regarding the replacement schedule.

Pay Attention to Weather Reports

Step up your consumption of weather forecasts to learn about conditions that might exacerbate your allergies — so that you know when it’s best to keep the windows closed or even stay indoors.

Depending on exactly what you’re allergic to, you might find that your symptoms worsen on windy days or those with increased pollution. Conversely, your symptoms might subside after a heavy rain, which tends to reduce the amount of pollen in the air.

Speaking of which, you can obtain more details on local pollen counts by visiting websites like Pollen.com.

Readers, do you or someone you care about suffer from allergies — and what’s your opinion on homeopathic remedies versus traditional pharmaceuticals?

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