Schedule A Slow Down

Do you often feel stressed out at work or at home?  Taking a day for yourself is a great way to regroup and relax.  A day to yourself does not need to be a vacation or a day at the spa.   A few hours at home is all you need to relax and get more focused for the tasks ahead.  Keep reading and check out Apartment Therapy for more information.


Something to consider this morning as you start your Sunday: Schedule a day to slow down. Not only do you deserve a day of not rushing around from obligation to obligation, slowing down for a day will help you stay in the present, enjoy your home more and maybe even carry some of that peace you find over into the work week. We've got a few suggestions on some activities to help you slow things down this weekend — but we want to hear your ideas, too.

Does the idea of giving a whole day to slowing down seem impossible? For us too. But if that's the case, it might be the very thing you need to do every now and then. Instead of filling your day with brunch dates, DIY plans, cleaning tasks and more, try one (or more) of these ideas out (even if at first you've got to get a little less ambitious and only slow down for a few hours this weekend).

Start the day off with a favorite beverage and a good gaze
Whether you like a cup of coffee, tea or a nice smoothie, don't slurp down that liquid while checking your email or Instagram. Grab a seat in front of your favorite window to take in the view from your home. Or enjoy watching your kids play. Just take it all in while you finish a cup.

Play with your pets
My poor suffering cat. There's never enough attention for him, and not only does he deserve a few dedicated minutes of my full and undivided attention, but I need it, too. Connecting with my cat through snuggles and playing with his favorite toy not only makes him happy, it brings me joy, too. Pets are the masters of relaxation, so paying attention and following their lead can only help!



Take a walk — and notice what's around you
Not everyone lives in a place where walking to the nearest farmer's market is possible, but you can at least probably walk around the block (or at the very least your mailbox). Take notice of new plants, new neighbors, sounds and smells. Slow down and enjoy your home in your neighborhood and your city, along with enjoying your physical address. Try exploring slowly instead of rushing somewhere.

Catch-up on something (fun!) while leaning on something soft
Plant yourself on a pile of pillows and then grab a pile of your favorite design magazines that have been accumulating. Or read a few chapters of that book you started ages ago. Learn to be a book worm for a day. Or create a perfect nookand then never leave.

Avoid technology
It's not that watching your favorite Netflix show isn't relaxing, it's just you know how quickly time flies when you're plowing through episodes. The idea is to slow your day down, not speed it up! And it's getting increasingly difficult for people to just sit and think without that urge to reach for their phone. Practice breaking that dependence for a day.

Plan, cook and enjoy a meal from start to finish
Whether you do this part solo or with a few friends, the point is the same. Pick out a recipe you've been meaning to try, grab ingredients from a place that makes you feel good, and cook a meal without any distractions (perhaps difficult for moms and dads, but worth attempting anyway!). Then, break out your favorite plates, light those candles, and really enjoy a mindfully made meal.

Do something that makes you happy / brings you joy / is something that make you feel like time slows down for awhile
None of the above particularly appeal to you? Do whatever activity — spending time with your family, creating art, shopping, spending all day reading a book — that lets you take your time and slow down.

A New Take on a Refreshing Treat

Are you looking for something new to quench your thirst this summer?  This mango colada recipe will be sure to keep your cool.  It is a nice refreshing take on a favorite summer staple.  You can learn more below and at The Kitchn.

I once went to the Caribbean and actually got sick of Piña Coladas. It happens to the best of us. Midway through the vacation, I asked my bartender to switch it up a bit and it turns out that the same drink made with mango is just as good, if not better. The bartender kept the pineapple slice garnish as a nostalgic nod to our journey together through a week of seaside cocktails.

If you don't want to bother tracking down a ripe mango and slicing it, use frozen mango. Cream of coconut is the sickly sweet stuff most often found in the blue Coco Lopez can. For a lighter version, you can use light coconut milk, or lighter yet, coconut water.

Of course, this is the ideal kind of cocktail to make non-alcoholic if that's the sort of thing you're looking for.

Mango Colada

Serves 2

1/2 cup unsweetened mango juice or nectar
1/2 cup ripe mango cubes, fresh or frozen
1/2 cup crushed ice (or 1/2 cup if using frozen mango)
1/4 cup cream of coconut, coconut milk, or coconut water
1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice (from about 1/2 lime)
1/4 cup white rum, optional

Combine all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth and thick. Serve in tall glasses.

Trivia Answer and Happy Fourth of July!

We hope everyone at Aspira has a safe and happy Fourth of July!  Did you answer the trivia question correctly?  Your answer is below.

Answer: Calvin Coolidge, the 30th president, in 1872.

The Secret Summer Sauce

Are you looking for something new to put onto your summer salads?  There is a secret summer sauce that only has three ingredients.  This easy recipe can be used for anything from vegetables to the steak you are cooking on the grill.   This is easy sauce, and it has zero cooking required.  All you need to do is mix it up and drizzle away. You can learn more at The Kitchn.

A perfect meal, this time of summer, is one that seems to fly out of the refrigerator and onto your plate, with nothing but a brief stop at the grill (or grill pan). A seared steak, crusted with pepper, or a smoky hunk of eggplant straight from the garden with a salad to keep them company. This is easy living, people.

But what if you want just a touch more to your meal? Get fancy — how about a sauce? I stumbled accidentally onto the easiest and punchiest sauce recently — a magic blend of three ingredients that spices up everything from the grill — steak, chicken, burgers, a pile of vegetables. Zero cooking required. Just mix and drizzle. Want to see what’s in my magic sauce?

With just three ingredients, this falls firmly in the tongue-in-cheek category of "recipes." The magic three? Yogurt, Dijon mustard, and Sriracha. The yogurt gives creaminess and a little tang; the mustard adds depth and some bitterness (I prefer a mustard that also has a touch of sweetness); Sriracha for spice, of course. You really could use any hot sauce.

I stumbled across this when making a steak for myself and my husband. I whipped together these three things and voilà — it was delicious. Super punchy, a little creamy, cold and spicy. I use this all the time as a last-minute dip or sauce for grilled or fresh vegetables, and to spice up a simple chicken breast.

From me to you, magic sauce. Don't make cooking this summer any harder than it needs to be.

Magic Summer Sauce

Makes about 1 cup

1 cup plain yogurt
2 to 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
1 to 2 teaspoons Sriracha sauce

Mix and taste. Adjust ingredients to taste. Refrigerate leftovers for up to 1 week.

More Energy

Are you dragging in the morning?  Everyone is looking for that boost of energy.  Instead of looking for an energy drink or energy shot, did you think of looking in your own apartment.  Apartment Therapy explains these nifty tips in the blog below.

Your home can give you the boost of energy you need in the morning.  This includes more than a better nights sleep. There are a few simple steps that you can do to give yourself the energy boost you need in the morning.



1. Get better sleep
It sounds simple, but even if you make more time for it (seven to eight hours is what you should be aiming for), you still might not grab that many hours of shut-eye unless you take some time to outfit your bedroom into your perfect sleep palace. Some ideas:
Top 6 Do's: Things to Try for a Good Night’s Sleep
Steal These Habits For A Good Night's Sleep
5 Things to Avoid for a Good Night's Sleep
How To Sleep Better: 9 Fixes For Common Reasons Why Your Bedroom's Not Working

2. Make it easier to access fuel
Make your caffeine station in your home prominent and easy to access so you don't have to think or work too hard to get at that magic liquid. But don't just keep it to coffee — studies have shown that tea (white, black, green — whatever you love) can give you a boost, as well as certain snacks like oatmeal, dark chocolate or high-protein breakfast options. And keep lots of water on hand too — staying hydrated is important for keeping your energy up. Inspiration: Wake Up to a Well-Styled Coffee Station (the above pictured from A Beautiful Mess.)

3. Make it easier to exercise
Organize your dresser or your closet and include a special area that makes your workout clothes and your shoes really easy to access. Perhaps even leave them out before going to bed so you don't even have to search for them. Consider buying or DIYing a heavy bench or low table that can pull double duty as a workout zone for box jumps, tricep dips and more. If you don't like the look of exercise equipment don't get rid of it, just get creative with your organization so that you hide it.

4. Cultivate a sunny spot
If you've got a window that lets in great light, throw some floor cushions on the ground to give yourself a spot to soak up the sun. Or even better, work on your outdoor area so that it's a place you can lounge in and get some fresh air. Getting out in nature and absorbing the sun and breeze is a great way to get energized.

5. Do something nice for your spouse or roommate
We're not sure how solid the science is on this, but we know that when we do something helpful for someone else, we get a heavy dose of happiness and energy. It might work for you.

6. Tackle something off your master list
What's your master list? It's that list (better still if it's a physical list written or posted up somewhere) that has all the little things that are bothering you that you haven't gotten around to doing. Could be calling for a dental appointment. Might be changing your air filter. You don't have to fix or schedule your entire world, but tackle even just one task and you'll notice a zing of motivation.

7. Cheer yourself up with physical stay-positive reminders
Some find it hokey, but we think it works. Whatever quotes or sayings inspire you, post them around your home for constant visual reminders. Here are some ideas:Purposeful Prints: 10 Visual Reminders For All Year Long.

Fun Creative Recipes for Every Summer Occasion

The weather has been pretty nice this spring so far and summer is quickly approaching!  Do you have any fun recipes that you like to make for cookouts and picnics?  We have five different summer party themes and perfect recipes to go with them!

Apartment Therapy is always the place to go for unique DIY crafts and unique recipes.  There are recipes for a cocktail to a brunch for you to explore below.  Keep reading to learn more!

1. Chill Cocktail Social
The attention here will really be on chill cocktails and cool conversations, so don't sweat it and just provide a light spread of snacks to nibble on. We like:

10 Light & Fresh Dips for Spring Snacking
Spiced Cucumber Sticks with Chaat Masala
Kale Chips
15 More Ways to Flavor Roasted Chickpeas
A Snack-Heavy Gathering: 10 Simple, Satisfying Recipes




2. Sweet Sunday Brunch
Spend time celebrating your friends as they arrive, not slave over the stove! This compact collection of our favorite brunch items are easy-to-make, colorful and totally make-ahead-able:
Potato Breakfast Gratin with Red Peppers & Parmesan
Citrus Salad with Honey & Bitters Dressing
Sticky Lemon Rolls with Lemon Cream Cheese Glaze
Strawberry-Sour Cream Scones with Brown Sugar Crumble




3. Family-Friendly Barbecue Picnic
Nothing's better than firing the grill up and smelling cooked scents wafting on a summer breeze. Even if you don't have a backyard big enough to house a huge barbecue pit, you can still find room with these small space grills.
Ultimate Beef & Bacon Burgers
Grilled Smoked Sausage Skewers with Three Zesty Sauces
Grilled Chicken Thighs with Apricot-Miso Glaze
Grilled Guacamole
Grilled Zucchini and Grape Tomato Salad
Grilled Cabbage Wedges with Spicy Lime Dressing
(Can't forget about potato salad) How To Make Potato Salad
(Don't forget dessert!) How To Make Ice Cream Sandwiches At Home






4. Stellar Sci-Fi Movie Night Under the Stars
What do you serve at an outdoor movie night under the stars? Obviously delicious homemade snacks! We love these ideas:
10 Make-At-Home Snacks
Dark Chocolate & Nutella Puppy Chow
Homemade Potato Chips with Rosemary
Homemade Popcorn with Olive Oil

What snacks and main dishes have you made at past parties that were huge hits? Share your favorite recipes that you know always knock it out of the park when celebrating with guests!

Top Father's Day Gift Ideas

Father's Day is one week away. Have you picked out a gift yet? Is your Dad a tech guy or would he rather work with his hands. We have searched and come up with some great ideas on what to get the special guy in your life.

You still have time this weekend to get some of these gifts for your Father. There is something for the cook, the outdoors man, and the technology guy. Keep reading and you can find more gifts on AskMen.


Father’s Day undoubtedly brings up fond memories. Whether it’s the time dad taught you how to play catch or that first weekend fishing trip with just the two of you, you really owe the guy something for all he's done.

Buying gifts can be incredibly hard, and, sure, it’s always simple to take the easy way out with a tie or coffee mug, but why not do something really special for the old man this year? We’ve put together this handy guide ofgreat Father’s Day gifts that includes the perfect gift ideas for every type of dad, from the avid outdoorsman to the obsessed film aficionado.

We're sure your dad will be appreciative of whatever you get for him on Father’s Day, and while a heartfelt card and hug are nice, they probably can’t compare to a cutting-edge tablet.
Timex Expedition Chronograph

For the Classic Dad
Simple, yet sturdy, this stainless steel number from Timex is a great everyday watch for dad with its black and white dial and silver link strap.
$56.50 at Amazon
Carnivore Cookbook

For the Classic Dad
Great for the dad who likes to cook both simple and elaborate meat-based meals, Michael Symon’s cookbook is an offer featuring 120 recipes for carnivores. The book is a great blend of traditional dishes, like pork pie and smoked lamb ribs, with a touch of contemporary.
$20.34 at Walmart
Amazon Fire TV

For the Tech Dad
If your dad likes watching what he wants, when he wants, Amazon Fire TV will let him do just that. This small, easy, and well-designed set-top box is a great way for him to stream everything from the latest blockbuster to his favorite TV series and games. It’s also an Android-friendly device so he can access the system from his smartphone.
$99.00 at Amazon
Craftsman Evolv Cordless Drill/Driver

For the Handy Dad
This high-torque 18 Volt drill will help your dad with all of his spontaneous reno initiatives around the house. It features a keyless chuck, 24 tension selection clutch and an integrated electric brake so that dad never spins out of control. Plus, it's now 20% off the retail price.
$39.99 at KMart.com
Baxter Of California Kit

For the Dapper Dad
Because the desire to have good skin doesn't come to an end with post-pubescence, this set from Baxter of California is great gift for the dapper dad. Designed to achieve and maintain healthy facial skin, the Herbal Mint Toner also happens to smell really good.
$48.00 at FrankandOak.com
Panasonic Wet/Dry Shaver

For the Classic Dad
He might have taught you how to shave, but that doesn't mean you can't give him a tool to perfect the job now. For a quick yet precise shave, and easy clean-up, Panasonic has some fine electric razors that are good for dad. Plus, they're equipped with waterproof technology for use in wet or dry conditions.
Starting at $49.79 at Panasonic.com
Chillsner

For the Handy Dad
Love of beer is practically synonymous with dads, and now there is a way to ensure that his lager or IPA is perfectly chilled every time. Designed like an icicle, or a “corksicle,” the Chillsner fits into a bottle’s neck so that his drink cool off almost instantly, down to the last drop.
C$31.95 at Amazon
MeUndies

For the Dapper Dad
Made from Lenzing modal (a fabric known for being super soft and ecological), it’s no surprise that MeUndies have been dubbed the “world’s most comfortable” underwear. Beyond comfort, this line of premium undies comes in a variety of colors and prints that will keep dad feeling funky and fresh, day in and day out. Plus, using the code FDAM25 at checkout gets you an additional 25% off your first purchase.
$16.00 at MeUndies.com
Frank&Oak Cuff Links

For the Dapper Dad
True, not every man has a wardrobe to accommodate cuff links, but if you have a dad of the truly stylish variety, than this antique silver pair will take his usual get-up from fine to refined.
$28.00 at FrankandOak.com
Basis Carbon Steel Health Tracker


For the Tech Dad
The Basis activity tracker combines advanced technology and wear-worthy esthetic, but let’s focus on what makes this piece of wearable tech different from the others we’ve seen before. The band is riddled with sensors that capture heart rate, motion, activity trends, sleep patterns, as well as perspiration and skin temperature. But beyond regurgitating information, Basis analyzes tendencies and habits to suggest ways of optimizing daily potential — truly great for the active dad.
$199.00 at MyBasis.com
Hershel Weekender Bag

For the Dapper Dad
From one of the top bag-makers, the Herschel Weekender is a good pick for the dad that likes to spend weekends out of town. It’s built big enough to fit an overnight change of clothes, the essentials, and extra pair of shoes in the underneath storage pocket, and it’s small enough to be used day-to-day.
$79.99 at Amazon
Target Gift Card

For the Classic Dad
If you’re not quite sure what to get your dad this Father’s Day — or he’s really picky — save yourself a potential headache and get him a Target GiftCard. He can turn any physical or digital card he receives into a Target Mobile GiftCard just by storing the barcode into his account and presenting it when he makes a purchase. He can even merge or share all the cards he receives from others just by logging into the website or using the app. With a $1,000 limit ($200 on an e or mobile card), he can get exactly what he wants minus all the fuss.