Take a look at our August newsletter!
Bugs, Breeze, and Backyard Breaks
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The Dog Days of Summers Past I think it’s time to officially christen August as National Air Conditioning Month! We’re living in the “dog days of summer,” when the thermometer typically reaches its highest number of the year. Honestly, it feels like nature unlocked a few extra kennels this year, as it’s 92 degrees outside as I write this article! Although I’m by no means a fan of the heat as an adult, I still pause, smile, and think back to my youth whenever I feel a heatwave wash over me. Growing up in Baltimore, I knew all about heat and humidity. These were the days before central air, so we had air conditioner units in each bedroom and a huge fan in the attic that would suck all the air up through the house. We later moved to horse country in Maryland, which was even hotter in the summer. Despite the intense heat, I loved being outside as a kid. Those were the days before people warned children not to drink from a hose in the yard, so that’s often how I quenched my thirst as the sun beat down upon me. When not taking a dip in our neighbor’s pool, I’d go swimming in the reservoir out in the woods. It felt great to cool off on days when the heat and humidity refused to leave the air. Even though being outdoors wasn’t always comfortable, I still went out as often as possible — something my parents always encouraged. I can still hear “David, go outside!” in my mind. That said, the best times of my early summers occurred at night. I’d chase lightning bugs until the street lights came on — the official sign that it was time to head home for dinner and stay in for the rest of the evening. Sometimes, I’d get permission to go back outside after dinner and play at night. Those were innocent times, and nobody looked for or got into trouble. I hate to sound like an old man, but many younger people are missing out by not tapping into the fun and independence that come with stepping out and experiencing nature. As hot as it was growing up, it was nothing to what I experienced years later while attending Clemson University in South Carolina. It was brutal, especially since I worked in a restaurant kitchen that was maybe 300 square feet and had zero air conditioning.
I would leave my shifts completely dehydrated. There’s no way I could do that now — I barely got through it in my early 20s! These days, my Augusts are spent going from air conditioning to air conditioning — whether in the car, at the office, at a store, or when I’m home. Although I love the convenience of not being bogged down by the oppressive heat, I miss being outside the way I was in my youth. I’ve been considering new hobbies that will prompt me to spend more time outdoors, but nothing has stuck with me yet. I don’t think I’d ever be great at golf, so that option is probably off the table. At my age and with the current condition of my hip, mountain biking is probably out as well. I’m leaning toward fishing, but that’s not concrete yet. If you have an idea for a way for me to stay active this time of year that won’t test my patience or aggravate my hip, I’d love to hear it! As we all contend with the heat, remember that summer will be over before we know it. Yes, these days can make us sweaty, but they can also deliver moments we’ll always cherish. Even as an adult who can’t imagine life without air conditioning, part of me still wants to walk out of work at the end of the day and catch lightning bugs and drink from the hose. “Although I love the convenience of not being bogged down by the oppressive heat, I miss being outside the way I was in my youth.”
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HOW TO USE PLANTS AND SCENTS TO REPEL INSECTS Nature vs. Nature
There’s nothing quite like summer. Backyard barbecues, evening hikes, and late-night stargazing. All of it is magical — until bugs crash the party. Mosquitoes, gnats, and ticks don’t need an invite, and before you know it, you’re scratching your ankles and swatting at the air. But you don’t have to douse yourself in strong sprays and chemicals to keep them away. Here are five natural ways to repel bugs this summer — no chemicals required. Choose Loose Clothing Believe it or not, your outfit can make a big difference. Light-colored, loose-fitting clothing is less attractive to mosquitoes and helps prevent them from biting through fabric. Covering up exposed skin is one of the easiest ways to protect yourself. It’s specifically helpful to wear
long sleeves and pants at dusk and dawn, when bugs are most active. Use Natural Aromas Many bugs have super-sensitive noses, and certain scents repel them. Essential oils like citronella, eucalyptus, lavender, peppermint, and lemongrass are natural bug repellents. You can make your own spray by mixing a few drops of any of these scents with water and a carrier oil (like witch hazel or coconut oil), then spritzing it on your skin or clothes. Just make sure you’re cautious with essential oils around pets and kids. Smoke Them Out Burning herbs like sage or rosemary in your campfire or fire pit not only smells amazing but also helps keep mosquitoes and gnats
at bay. Bugs hate the smoke from these plants, and it’s an easy, low-effort way to keep them off your picnic table. Watch Your Scents Surprisingly, it’s not just about what repels bugs — it’s also about avoiding what attracts them. Fragranced lotions, perfumes, and even certain soaps can lure bugs to you. In summer, it’s smart to go unscented when heading outdoors. Keep Your Space Clean If you have standing water on your property, it’s a mosquito’s favorite breeding ground. Make sure you dump water from flower pots, birdbaths, or kiddie pools regularly. And if you’re entertaining outside, clean up food scraps and trash — flies and ants will sniff those out fast.
Need Help? Call Brauns “My experience with Braun’s law was open, honest, and caring. I felt really confident with their team when it came to my case. Thank you, Brauns Law, for your help and for getting my life back on track.” —John
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A Summer Scorcher Survival Guide Hot-Weather Health As mentioned in this month’s newsletter, we’re now in the “dog days” of summer — the season’s hottest and most humid weeks. In addition to being sticky and generally unpleasant, the air outside can be downright dangerous if we’re not careful. When outdoor heat levels rise, our bodies have a greater chance of overheating to the point where we experience heat stroke — a serious condition that occurs when our internal temperature rises to 104 F. Left untreated, heat stroke (also known as sun stroke or life-threatening hyperthermia) can severely damage our brain, kidneys, heart, and muscles — and even kill us. There are two types of heat stroke: • Classic : Caused by your body losing its ability to cool down in an overwhelmingly hot environment, such as a car or an outdoor space, with the body reaching this point without physical exertion. • Exertional : Occurs when physical activity causes your body to overheat faster than it can cool itself. Although physical exertion in hot temperatures can exacerbate exertional heat stroke, it can also occur during physical activities in normal temperatures.
Signs of heat stroke include dizziness, fainting, a rapid heart rate, vomiting, slurred speech, confusion, flushed or pale skin, weakness, and blurred vision. In some cases, an affected person may become agitated, aggressive, or show other uncharacteristic behavior. If you’re with someone experiencing heat stroke, calling 911 should be your first step in helping them. From there, you can help cool them down rapidly by immersing them in cool water up to their neck, having them take a cold shower, or applying wet, cold towels or cloths. If the person has trouble breathing or becomes unresponsive, apply proper emergency care if you’re trained to do so. Following these simple tips can help someone avoid serious health consequences in the heat. Consult your physician for additional ways to ensure you and your loved one enjoy the summer without the weather wreaking havoc on your well-being.
Take a Break
Inspired by EatingWell.com SPINACH, FETA, AND EGG STUFFED PEPPERS
INGREDIENTS •
2 large bell peppers, any color
• • • • •
1/4 tsp ground black pepper 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil 1/2 cup chopped onion 2 cups chopped spinach 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese
• • •
1/2 tsp salt 4 large eggs
2 tbsp reduced-fat milk
DIRECTIONS 1.
Preheat oven to 375 F. 2. Halve peppers lengthwise; remove and discard seeds. 3. Place peppers cut-side up in an 8-inch-square microwave-safe dish. Microwave on high 2 1/2–3 minutes until tender; pat dry and sprinkle with salt. 4. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, and black pepper. 5. To a medium skillet over medium-high heat, heat oil, then add onion and cook, stirring, for about 2 minutes until softened and beginning to brown. 6. Add spinach and cook, stirring 1–2 minutes more until spinach is wilted. 7. Divide spinach mixture evenly among pepper halves. Sprinkle with feta, and top with egg mixture. 8. Bake 30–35 minutes until filling is set.
BEER FAMILY LEO LUNCHBOX
MUSTARD PERIDOT POPPY SISTERS
TWINS VACATION WATERMELON ZUCCHINI
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Inside This Issue 1 2 Heatwaves and Hindsight The Natural Way to Fight Off Summer Bugs (No Harsh Sprays Needed!)
What Our Clients Are Saying Spot Symptoms, Save Lives Spinach, Feta, and Egg Stuffed Peppers Healthy Habits for the Whole Crew
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MAKING FITNESS FUN FOR EVERYONE The Family That Sweats Together, Stays Together
Ready to turn family time into flexing time? Staying active and healthy doesn’t have to mean dragging everyone to the gym for endless push-ups or eating kale every day. With a bit of imagination and a team effort, the whole family can make fitness fun and celebrate gains together. From turning laundry chores into speed-folding competitions to jamming out in the living room as a cardio workout, building healthy habits is easier when you’re with the ones you love and laughing! Mop ‘Til You Drop Chores may not be everyone’s favorite activity — that is, until you turn them into high-energy games that work up a sweat. Many household tasks have physical elements that can be a form of entertaining exercise. You could challenge your family to a sweep off, where everyone races with their broom
to see who can clean the floor the fastest. Maybe you want to do some laundry lunges while washing clothes or see who can pick up the most toys in the shortest amount of time. Not only will everyone be more motivated to get their household to- do list done, but it will also help everyone get their reps in without noticing. Fit and Fun Staying in shape will happen naturally if you carve out time for family activities that include a little movement. Daily walks after dinner are low-impact, get everyone outside, and are an easy way to get your steps in. Instead of driving to the library or park, ride bikes to get there so everyone reaps the benefits of cycling, such as improved heart health and better balance. Your children might enjoy trying out scooters or roller skates to get around the neighborhood.
Stir Up Good Habits Proper nutrition is a key ingredient in a healthy lifestyle. Commit to cooking together as a family at least once a week to get everyone excited about eating right. Have the kids help plan the entree, pick out fresh veggies at the store, measure ingredients, or set the table. Making everyone feel included in meal planning helps them take ownership of their habits and learn how to prepare well-balanced diets.
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