BRADY EVENTS AND MARKETING INC. www.elizabethmarasco.com www.kudosjourney.com
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I hope the summer season treats you with kindness and brings you plenty of sunshine and smiles. As we dive into the heart of summer, it's the perfect time to embrace the joy and warmth this season offers.
In this special edition of Kudos magazine, we've curated a delightful array of fun summer ideas for families to help you make the most of these sunny days. Whether you're planning a backyard adventure, a trip to the beach, or looking for ways to keep the kids entertained, we've got you covered.
To sweeten your summer even more, we've included some mouthwatering no-bake recipes that are easy to make and delicious. These treats are perfect for those hot days when you want something refreshing without turning on the oven.
Remember, summer is about slowing down, soaking up the sun, and creating beautiful memories with loved ones. Take the time to cherish the season's goodness, relish the laughter, and savor every moment spent together.
Wishing you a happy, healthy, and unforgettable summer!
Elizabeth Marasco Brady Events and Marketing Inc.
Kudos
Magazine Publisher
CAREGIVING Caregiver for the
1
Host a treasure hunt in your backyard. Create pirate paper hats, hide small treats or toys around the garden and give the kids clues to find them. This activity stimulates the mind and encourages teamwork. It’s an exciting way to explore and spark imaginations.
2
Summer Play Pirate Treasure Hunt
Backyard Camping
Set up a tent and enjoy a night of camping in your backyard. This activity brings the adventure of camping right to your home. Make s’mores over a fire pit, tell stories, and enjoy stargazing. It’s a perfect opportunity to disconnect from devices and reconnect with family in a fun and meaningful way.
3
DIY Outdoor Art Station
Set up an outdoor art station where family members can unleash their creativity. Provide supplies such as washable paints, brushes, large sheets of paper, sidewalk chalk, and even old bedsheets or canvases for larger projects. Encourage everyone to create their own masterpieces, whether it’s painting, drawing, or even making crafts from natural materials found in the yard.
5 IDEAS FOR BACKYARD FAMILY FUN
4
Backyard Movie Night
Transform your backyard into an outdoor cinema. All you need is a projector, a white sheet or portable screen, and some comfortable seating. Add in some popcorn, cozy blankets, and perhaps some of Enzo’s Pizza to make it a night to remember. This is a great way to enjoy a family-friendly film under the stars.
5 DIY Water Park
Beat the heat with a DIY water park. Set up a sprinkler, a slip 'n slide, and fill up a few kiddie pools. Incorporate water balloon games for extra fun. It's a simple yet effective way to cool down while keeping everyone entertain
Hitting the Brakes: Hitting the Brakes:
HOW TO HELP YOUR AGING LOVED HOW TO HELP YOUR AGING LOVED
ONE TRANSITION FROM DRIVING ONE TRANSITION FROM DRIVING
Most families eventually face the tough decision of whether an aging loved one, maybe a spouse, parent, or grandparent, should continue driving. It's a topic fraught with emotion, fear, and the delicate balance between independence and safety. Navigating this terrain of responsibility, love, and concern can feel challenging. Understanding when and how to approach this conversation can make all the difference in preserving our loved one's dignity while ensuring their safety and the safety of others on the road.
It isn't easy to acknowledge when a loved one's driving abilities have declined. However, certain signs can indicate that it's time to have this important conversation. Frequent
minor accidents, unexplained dents on the car, getting lost on familiar routes, and increased traffic violations are red flags. Additionally, if your loved one expresses anxiety about driving or if you notice a decline in their vision, hearing, or reaction time, it's essential to take these signs seriously.
Asking someone you care about to give up driving is not just a logistical challenge; it's a deeply emotional one. For many seniors, driving represents independence, freedom, and control. Taking away the car keys can feel like stripping away their autonomy. They might feel a sense of loss, sadness, or even anger. Understanding and empathizing with these emotions is crucial as you prepare to have this conversation.
Gathering information and preparing yourself emotionally before approaching your loved one can be helpful. Consider speaking with their healthcare provider for a professional opinion on their driving ability. This can provide a factual basis for your discussion. Also, reflect on your feelings and fears. Approach the conversation from a place of love and concern, not control.
Ask for their perspective and listen attentively.
Choosing the right time and place is essential. Find a quiet, comfortable setting without distractions. Ensure you're not rushing and have ample time to talk things through. Use "I" statements to frame your concerns about how you feel. For example, "I feel worried when you're out driving at night," rather than "You're a dangerous driver." Gently share specific instances that have raised your concerns, such as "I noticed a few new dents on the car. Can we talk about what happened?"
Ask for their perspective and listen attentively. This collaborative approach can help them feel respected and heard. One of seniors' biggest fears about giving up driving is losing their independence. Help them see that other options exist.
Research local transportation services, ride-sharing apps, or community shuttle services that cater to seniors. Offer to help with errands or set up a schedule with family members for regular outings. If possible, suggest reducing driving gradually rather than stopping abruptly. They could start by avoiding night driving or limiting trips to familiar, nearby places.
Asking a loved one to stop driving is heartwrenching. You may feel a mix of guilt, sadness, and even relief. It's normal to grieve the change in your loved one's lifestyle and its impact on their independence. Remember, it shows your deep love and concern for their well-be
Always hanging around, looking at their phones with headphones plugged in.
When they finish their meal –they just get up and walk away!
Kids
They don’t go to work, they “work out”.
They’re not serious aboutanything.
Amazing Benefits of Swimming Dive into Wellness
Summer is here and it's the perfect time to dive into one of the best low-impact exercises around - swimming! Swimming is a fantastic option if you're looking for a fun, refreshing way to stay fit and healthy. Once you discover the joys and benefits of swimming, you'll be eager to make it a part of your summer routine.
Why Swimming is So Great
Swimming is more than just a way to cool off on a hot day—it's a full-body workout that can improve your overall health and well-being. Here are just a few reasons why you should put swimming into your summer routine:
01.
Low-Impact Exercise:
One of the best things about swimming is that it's easy on the joints. Unlike high-impact exercises like running or jumping, swimming provides a great workout without stressing your knees, hips, or back. This makes it an excellent option for people of all ages and fitness levels, including those with arthritis or other joint issues.
Total Body Workout: 02.
When you swim, you engage almost every muscle in your body. From your arms and shoulders to your core and legs, every stroke helps tone and strengthen your muscles. Swimming improves flexibility and balance, making you more agile in and out of the water.
03.
Cardiovascular Health:
Swimming is a fantastic way to get your heart pumping. It increases your heart rate without stressing your body, improving cardiovascular health and lung capacity. Regular swimming can help lower blood pressure, improve circulation, and reduce the risk of heart disease.
Mental Health Boost: 04.
There's something incredibly calming about being in the water. The rhythmic nature of swimming can have a meditative effect, helping to reduce stress and anxiety. Plus, the endorphins released during exercise can boost your mood and help you feel happier and more relaxed.
05.
Weight Management:
Swimming burns a lot of calories—more than you might think! Depending on the intensity and style of your swimming, you can burn as many calories as running without the impact. It's a great way to stay in shape or even shed a few extra pounds this summer.
Get Ready to Dive In
If you're new to swimming or haven't been in the pool for a while, don't worry. Here are a few tips to help you get started and make the most of your swimming sessions:
Start Slow: Begin with short sessions and gradually increase the duration and intensity as you build your stamina. Even a few laps at a leisurely pace can be beneficial.
Mix It Up: Try different strokes like freestyle, breaststroke, backstroke, and butterfly to work different muscle groups and keep your workouts interesting.
Stay Safe: Always swim in designated areas with lifeguards on duty, and never swim alone. If you need to be a more confident swimmer, consider taking a few lessons to improve your technique and safety in the water.
Have Fun: Most importantly, enjoy yourself! Swimming is a great way to have fun, whether you're doing laps, playing water games, or just floating around Remember Your Sun Block!
Grab your swimsuit, head to the nearest pool, lake, or beach, and dive into a healthier, happier you!
Garden ofGratitude
Where Memories Blossom Where Memories Blossom Where Memories Blossom
As I stroll through my garden, the warm sun kissing my face and the gentle breeze rustling through the leaves, I am enveloped by a symphony of memories that come alive with each step I take. This garden, a living scrapbook of my life, holds stories that have shaped, comforted, and reminded me that life continues in the most beautiful ways. Each patch of flowers and every old tree is a chapter of my life, bringing to mind the people and
moments that have defined me. The daisies, swaying gently in the wind, are a tender reminder of my Granny. She loved daisies, and her eyes would light up whenever she saw them. I remember the afternoons spent in her garden, her weathered hands gently guiding mine as we planted those cheerful blooms. She would tell me stories of her youth, her voice a soft melody that blended perfectly with the rustling leaves. Now, each daisy in my garden feels like a little piece of her, bright and full of life.
The large tree at the garden's center holds a special place in my heart. Its sturdy branches have witnessed countless picnics with my children. I can still hear their laughter echoing as we spread out the checkered blanket, unpacked sandwiches, and played tag around the trunk. We spent lazy summer afternoons beneath its shade, the leaves whispering secrets to the wind as we dozed off, bellies full and heart's content. That tree is a monument to our family's joy, a silent guardian of our happy memories.
Wandering down the rock path, the familiar crunch of the stones under my feet makes me smile. This path has seen so many games of tag, with my children dashing ahead, their giggles trailing behind them. I remember the times we planted flowers along this path, their little hands digging enthusiastically in the soil, their faces smeared with dirt and joy. Those were the days of simple pleasures, where planting a flower became an adventure, and the promise of a bloom was a shared treasure.
The tomato plants stand tall in a corner of the garden, a tribute to my father. Dad was a master gardener, and I was his eager apprentice. I can still picture him bending over the plants, his hands deftly pulling out the weeds. I would follow behind him, mimicking his actions, our laughter filling the air whenever I pulled out a seedling by mistake. Those afternoons always ended with fresh tomato sandwiches, the taste of the sun-warmed tomatoes mingling perfectly with the crisp bread, and glasses of sweet sun tea to wash it all down. Those moments were simple yet profound, a testament to the love and lessons my father shared with me.
With each change of season, my garden transforms, bringing new blooms and new memories. The vibrant colors of spring flowers, the lush greens of summer,
the warm hues of autumn leaves, and the quiet beauty of winter snow remind me that life is a continuous cycle of change and renewal. I am grateful for this garden, a living testament to the past and a promise of the future.
Every ordinary moment in the garden extraordinary. It's a place where time seems to slow down, where I can linger and savor the beauty around me. It's taught me to appreciate the little things, to find joy in planting and watching a seed grow, and to treasure the memories that have shaped my life.
Life is a series of moments, some big and some small, but all significant. My garden is a constant reminder to seize these moments, create a life that I love, and cherish the memories that come with it. It has shown me that the past is always with us, even as life changes, along with new blooms each season.
Every ordinary moment in the garden holds the potential for something extraordinary.
As I tend to my garden, there is a profound sense of peace and connection, lending a reminder of those who have walked this path before me, those who have loved and laughed in this space. Their presence is felt in every petal, every leaf, and every breeze that whispers through the garden. As I continue to plant, nurture, and grow, I know that I am creating a legacy of love and memories for the future.
Choose to linger in the beauty of each moment and create a life you love. Treasure your memories, for they are the blooms that color your life and warm your hea
1. Using ice cube molds or mini muffin tins, add a few blueberries to each compartment.
3.
Combine Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Mix until smooth and well combined.
2. Spoon yogurt mixture over blueberries.
5.
4. Serve and Enjoy
Place the molds in the freezer and freeze for 2-3 hours or until the yogurt bites are firm.
Energy Bites
INSTRUCTIONS
INGREDIENTS: Mix all the ingredients until smooth. 1. Divide mixture into small, bitesized balls using your hands or a small cookie scoop.
3 cups of oats
1/2 cup honey
1 cup peanut butter
1/2 cup chocolate chips
1/3 cup dried cherries or cranberries
Place the energy bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow them to firm up.
Summer
Car Care
As the temperature rises, so do the demands on your car. The summer heat can be brutal, not just for you but for your vehicle too. Whether planning a road trip or navigating your daily commute, keeping your car in shape during the summer is important. Here are some essential car care tips to ensure your ride stays smooth and reliable all season.
Check Your Cooling System
The engine's cooling system is your car's first defense against overheating. Make sure the coolant levels are adequate, and the mixture of antifreeze and water is correct. Inspect hoses and belts for any signs of wear or leaks. If you don't know how to check it, ask them to check when you have your next oil change.
Change Your Oil and Filter
Hot weather can cause your engine oil to thin out, reducing effectiveness. Regular oil changes are crucial to keeping your engine lubricated and running smoothly. Check your owner's manual for the recommended oil type and change interval. Also, remember to replace the oil filter during each oil change.
Replace Worn Wiper Blades
Summer thunderstorms can be unpredictable, and the last thing you want is to get caught in a downpour with ineffective wiper blades. Regularly inspect your wiper blades for any signs of cracking or wear and replace them if needed. If you need help changing them, many stores like AutoZone offer free installation with purchase.
Monitor Tire Pressure and Condition
Heat causes the air inside your tires to expand, which can lead to over-inflation. Regularly check your tire pressure to ensure it's at the manufacturer's recommended level. Also, inspect the tire tread for wear and tear. Summer is a great time to rotate your tires to promote even wear and extend lifespan.
Protect Your Car's Interior
The sun's UV rays can cause damage to your car's interior, fading upholstery and cracking the dashboard. Use sunshades to protect the interior surfaces, and consider applying a UV protectant to the dashboard and other exposed areas regularly clean and condition leather seats to prevent them from drying out and crack
Marshmallows and S'mores
Sweet Journey of
Once upon a time, the world received an unexpected treasure in the mysterious and ancient marshes of Egypt. No, it wasn't a golden relic or a hidden tomb but the humble marshmallow. Over 2,000 years ago, Egyptians created this gooey delicacy revered and reserved for royalty. This treat, made from the root sap of the marsh-mallow plant (yes, that's a real plant!), was mixed with honey and nuts to create a confection fit for the pharaohs. And thus, the marshmallow was born.
Fast forward to the 19th century, when the marshmallow reached Europe. They whipped up the marshmallow game, swapping the gooey plant sap for gelatin, making it fluffier and more resilient. It was like marshmallow 2.0. This new and improved treat caught on faster than you can say "sugar rush," becoming a staple in every candy shop from Paris to London.
The real sweetness of the story unfolded when the marshmallow made its way to America. By the early 20th century, marshmallows became a household delight, perfect for all kinds of sweet treats. But the best was yet to come. Enter the 1920s, a decade of jazz, flappers, and, most importantly, the birth of s'mores.
Legend has it that a group of inventive Girl Scouts concocted the first s'more. Picture a starry night around a campfire, marshmallows skewered on sticks, slowly melting to perfection. Someone had the brilliant idea to squish the toasted marshmallow between two graham crackers and a chunk of chocolate. The result? A gooey, melty, crunchy masterpiece that had everyone asking for "some more." And just like that, the s'more was made a debut.
The name itself, "s'more," is a contraction of the words "some more," which is precisely what you'll be begging for after your first bite. The genius of s'mores lies in their simplicity. Three essential ingredients—marshmallows, chocolate, and graham crackers combine to create a symphony of textures and flavors that dance on your tongue, like Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers.
S'mores quickly became the star of summer nights across America. Whether you were camping in the wilderness, hosting a backyard bonfire, or even using the microwave in a desperate wintertime s'mores craving, this treat became synonymous with fun, laughter, and a little bit of sticky mess.
as icons of American confectionery culture. They re featur in everything from gourmet desserts to fancy cocktails. Ye despite the fancy twists and modern takes, nothing beats classic, nostalgic joy of making s'mores around a campfire It's a rite of passage, a delicious tradition passed down through generations, each bite infused with the spirit of summer adventures and childhood memories.
So, next time you're sitting around a campfire, marshmall in hand, remember: you're not just making a treat. You're participating in a sweet, sticky slice of history stretching fr ancient Egypt's marshes to the glowing embers of your ve own campfire. Here's to many more nights of laughter, stories, and, of course, s'more
TIPS FOR STAYING COOL THIS SUMMER
Ah, summer. The season of sun, fun, and the ongoing battle to avoid turning into a human puddle. While we may love soaking up the long days and warm nights, the sweltering heat can sometimes make us rethink our life choices.
Sure, cranking up the AC seems like the ultimate fix, but who wants to deal with sky-high energy bills and the risk of ACinduced arthritis pain and achy joints?
Plus, going easy on the AC helps your body adapt to the heat, making you more resilient to inevitable heat waves.
Whether braving the heat with a fan and a bowl of ice or embracing your inner vampire by closing the blinds, remember: staying cool doesn't have to cost your wallet or your wellness.
Here are some fun, easy, and practical tips for staying cool this summer without constantly resorting to the AC—and they work!
Use fans creatively with ice for an extra cool breeze.
Close blinds during peak sunlight hours to keep your home cooler.
Freeze pillowcases or sheets before bed for a refreshing night's sleep.
Stay hydrated with water infused with fruits and herbs.
Take a cold shower or a quick swim.
Enjoy refreshing treats like frozen popsicles and watermelon.
Opt for light, refreshing meals like salads and cold soups.
Wear lightweight, breathable clothing made of natural fibers.
Mist yourself with cold water throughout the day.
Use a chilled, damp washcloth on your forehead or neck.
Take advantage of evening breezes by creating ossbreeze in your hom
BALANCING ACT T H E S U M M E R
A Tale of Work, Family, and a Positive Mindset
The sweet stress of summer break, when the kids are free from school duties, the days are longer, and the sun seems to shine just a bit brighter. It's a season filled with endless possibilities and, for many of us, a chance to juggle work, family, and all the chaos that comes with it.
Let me take you on a journey through one particularly memorable summer, where balancing it all became an art form sprinkled with humor, life lessons, and plenty of sunscreen.
It was the first day of summer break, and the house was excitedly buzzing.
The kids had already made a list of all the fun things they wanted to do, from beach trips to amusement parks, while I had a list of deadlines that seemed to grow by the minute. My aging parents, bless their hearts, were eager to spend more time with their grandkids, and my husband, ever the optimist, promised we'd find a way to make it all work.
"Mom, can we go to the zoo today?" my youngest asked, his eyes wide with anticipation.
"Zoo? Today? How about we start with something smaller, like a trip to the backyard?" I replied, glancing at my laptop where a mountain of emails awaited my attention. And so, our summer began with a compromise – a backyard safari, complete with a picnic and a scavenger hunt. It was the perfect start, or so I thought.
Fast-forward to mid-summer, the novelty of having the kids home all day had worn off. The once neat balance of work and family time was now a chaotic dance of Zoom meetings interrupted by sibling squabbles and urgent project deadlines coinciding with the kids' version of summer fun.
One particularly hectic day, I was on a conference call while simultaneously trying to help my daughter with a baking project. Let's just say that frosting and laptop keyboards do not mix well.
is the need to help my aging parents and in-laws. Since my Father-In-Law's hip replacement and heart surgery, they need a little more support and time. Little things to help them through their storm, from driving to doctor's appointments to grocery store and drug store runs.
While driving the kids to the beach for a fun play date, my phone buzzed with an urgent work email. I felt like a juggler, trying to keep all the balls in the air. Three months earlier, I had scheduled this day as a personal day; nonetheless, this was a task marked as urgent.
As I started feeling overwhelmed and frustrated, my mom-in-law gently squeezed my hand almost simultaneously.
"Remember, sweetie, it's about the journey, not just the destination," she said, sensing my stress.
She was right. Her gentle interruption was a great chance to reset the narrative and choose not to let this minor hiccup seize my energy or joy.
Despite the challenges, these
Adding to the summer madness
moments with my parents are precious, and I realized that the same applied to my time with the kids. It wasn't about perfection but about being present and enjoying the journey.
The turning point came during a family camping trip. We decided to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with each other. No laptops, no phones –just us, nature, and a whole lot of marshmallows.
As we sat around the campfire, sharing stories and laughter, I felt a sense of peace that had been missing all summer. The kids were learning to appreciate the simple things, and I was reminded of the importance of balance.
Returning home, I embraced a new approach. I set clear work and family time boundaries, delegating tasks when needed and prioritizing selfcare. I also encouraged the kids to take on more responsibilities, teaching them the value of teamwork and independence. In fact, for one of our family fun nights, we worked together to prep a month of meals for my in-laws. The explosion of laughter and memories from this little project was one of my favorite highlights from the summer season
into our activities, whether gardening together or enjoying movie nights. My husband got involved and built a wooden stand-up flower box so my mom could participate in the garden fun.
By the end of summer, we had not only survived but thrived. The kids had grown in their independence and creativity, my parents felt more connected, and I learned that balance was not about doing everything perfectly but finding joy in the journey.
So, to all the parents navigating the summer chaos, remember that it's okay to ask for help, set boundaries, and find humor in the madness. Embrace the imperfect moments, for they are often the most memorable.
