Strange Daze Indeed

Isn't life strange? And wonderful!

Why I’m staying warm at home with Amwell

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Remember the days when doctors used to make house calls? Neither do I. Now it seems you have to schedule appointments way in advance, hope that something else doesn’t come up and take a lot of time out of an already busy day.

How about those days when you are really feeling too sick to go to the doctor? I know that when I’m not feeling up to par, driving and sitting in a waiting room is the last thing I want to do. But, relax, friends, because Amwell has you covered.  They make it amazingly easy to find a board-certified, licensed doctor for live, online visits, any time of day or night on either your phone or your laptop. It’s genius really!

Amwell docs can write prescriptions for your local pharmacy or do refills when needed and they are so convenient. Two weeks ago, I got a bad burn cooking and was unsure whether it needed urgent care and dressing or whether I could ride it out. That is a perfect time for Amwell. What if your child has a bad cough, your husband was stung by a bee or if you are having flu symptoms? I can assure you that a germy doctor’s office or ER is probably the last place I’d want to go if I was already feeling under the weather; not to mention that here in New England, we already have 20 degree temperatures and it’s not even Thanksgiving yet.

This week I got the opportunity to try Amwell. I woke up with a headache that was mind-crushing. I couldn’t drive and I couldn’t get anything done. Frankly, I was worried and had a lot of questions. How convenient that I could contact a doctor from the comfort of my home.

It’s so easy because it takes minutes to install the app or go to the Amwell website. Just create an account, put in as much or as little info as you want regarding medical history and choose a practitioner. You are also able to attach a photo so the doctor can look at your rash or bruise or burn up close and personal.

The wait is truly minimal. You can choose the next available physician or look through the profiles of the docs online. I looked through them and found someone that I felt was just right for me. It’s a really nice feeling to see the person helping you and know you are being seen as well.

The doctor I chose was extremely knowledgeable in helping me differentiate different types of headaches and what I could do to alleviate mine, as well as the possible causes. We discussed the pros and cons of different over the counter medications as well. The doctor took her time with me; there was no rush. She was a great listener and assisted me with another issue which had been bothering me as well. While the price of Amwell is very reasonable (oftentimes covered by insurance), the peace of mind I had afterward was truly priceless.

Why drive to the doctor and spend hours in a germy waiting room, when it’s less stressful and more healing to get checked out with just a phone call. That way you have more time to spend doing the things you enjoy the most with those you love the most.

 

Because that, is truly priceless.

 

 

With cold snowy weather coming up and the prospect of  Cold & flu, Sinus Infections and Stomach Bugs, I know that I will be using Amwell in the coming months for myself and my family, and I also want to make life easier for you with a 25% code!

For my readers: Use the code Amwell25 to save 25% off a $69 urgent care visit.

Unsure of how to get started? Simply click here to start your discounted doctor visit!

Stay connected!

Follow Amwell on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest.

 

Disclaimer: Compensation was provided by Amwell via Momtrends. The opinions expressed herein are those of the author and are not indicative of the opinions of Amwell or Momtrends.

Getting the Best Black Friday Deals at Best Buy

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Whenever I think of Black Friday, that Steely Dan song gets stuck in my head like an earworm. Just me?

To most of the country, however, Black Friday is the biggest shopping day of the year, conjuring up images of incredible savings if you can outwit outlast and outsmart the crowds.

My earliest Black Friday memories involve standing in line with my Mom before dawn with a thermos of coffee and fried egg sandwiches while we planned what toys we would get to surprise my younger sister, what tech to get Dad and just enjoying the overall giddiness and fun.

Being a technophile, I am eagerly awaiting the deals at Best Buy It’s one of my favorite stores and one where you can find awesome prices on most in-demand tech products from 4K HDR TVs to gaming consoles, smartphones, laptops and more. Some of their deals have already been released while others will start on Thanksgiving Day, November 28.

I’ve been needing a new laptop for work and have been holding out for months because with enough patience and perseverance you can really score and still have money left over for eggnog. I know that the latest MacBook Air will be on sale at Best Buy along with the Surface Pro 7 and Amazon’s Kindle Paperwhite e-reader. If you’re looking for a new smartphone, whether it be the iPhone 11Pro, Samsung’s Galaxy Note 10 Plus or the Google Pixel 4, Black Friday is the time to get huge discounts.

I also have my eye on a microwave with an air fryer built in, a new juicer, and I’m also looking to pick up some new headphones from Beats or Sony.  I’m always amazed at the variety and excellent prices at Best Buy.

Over the years, I’ve learned some tips and tricks to maximize success, including getting enough sleep beforehand so you’re not dragging when it comes to finding the best deals:

Have a list ready of those you are buying for and desired gifts. Although it’s fun to shop spontaneously as well, being prepared makes sure you don’t miss anyone or anything.

Do your research beforehand. For example, if you’re looking for a laptop, check out the specs and features. Get an idea of prices so that you’ll know if you’re really getting a good deal. Read reviews and talk to friends before Black Friday.

Have clear notes in your phone so you can refer to them quickly when needed.

One of my crucial tips is to always check online before Black Friday. Even though you may not have time to sift through every ad and stay updated to items as they pop up, trust me, there are people who do this. Find a favorite site that will keep you updated on the Best Black Friday Deals at Best Buy This has led me to the most amazing finds, sales, discounts, coupons and coupon codes.

And, above all, don’t get too stressed out. Remember, there’s always CyberMonday!

Top Hiking Destinations in Canada

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Banff, Canada

No matter where you live in Canada, whether you purchased some Toronto real estate in Ontario or anywhere from Vancouver, B.C. to St. John’s, Newfoundland, odds are, you have a wealth of hiking opportunities nearby. But for those who are true enthusiasts of getting out on the trail, these are the country’s very best hiking destinations.

Banff National Park, Alberta

One of the most popular destinations for hiking in all of Canada, Banff National Park offers some 1,000 miles of trails that vary from easy to challenging, with stunning views of the dramatic Canadian Rockies, surreal gem-hued lakes, glistening glaciers and much more around practically every turn. There are dozens of options, like the short Rockpile Trail which is just under a mile roundtrip and provides a breathtaking view of aquamarine-colored Moraine Lake and Mount Temple, along with a number of hanging glaciers. The Bow Glacier Falls trail is a great day hike at 5.5-miles roundtrip. The trek hugs the shoreline of Bow Lake, one of the park’s largest lakes, leading to the falls while passing lush alpine wonderland and glaciers.

Gross Morne National Park, Newfoundland

Canada’s easternmost national park is spread across over 62 miles and features practically an endless number of hiking options as an outdoor adventurer’s paradise. It’s also home to one of the highest densities of moose in the world, with around 7,000 inhabiting the region. One of the most popular hikes is the just over six-mile roundtrip trail to Baker’s Brook Falls. You’ll follow the path, much of which is flat boardwalk, through the forest to the magnificent series of cascades, watching for moose and other wildlife along the way.

Cape Breton Highlands National Park, Nova Scotia

This national park is home to what’s often ranked among the world’s greatest drives, the 185-mile Cabot Trail. While the scenery from behind the wheel is jaw-dropping, it’s even better when you get out on foot and explore the miles and miles of hiking trails. Middle Head Trail is just one, a former carriage road, it follows a long, narrow peninsula that separates two ocean pays, ending on the headland cliffs that overlook the Atlantic, Ingonish Island, and Cape Smokey. Hikers not only enjoy incredible sea views, but the opportunity to spot whales, seals, and bald eagles. There are countless other options from beginner to more difficult trails, with the longest at around 7.5 miles.

Algonquin Provincial Park, Ontario

One of Ontario’s most popular parks, Algonquin offers diverse terrain bringing a wide range of options for hikers of all experience levels. The short but sweet Beaver Pond Trail is a favorite for many. While it’s only about one-and-a-quarter miles long, it offers a good chance to spot wildlife, including beavers that are frequently spotted in the two beaver ponds the route passes.

Vancouver Island, British Columbia

Lush Vancouver Island is home to what may be the “hiking holy grail,” the West Coast Trail. The bucket-list trek covers some 47 miles of remote terrain in the north part of the island, featuring rainforest, waterfalls, caves, whale watching and more.

Make Cleaning Easy with the BISSELL CrossWave Cordless Max

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I love a clean home but I’m not always up for all that entails. With my hardwood floors, mopping isn’t enough and neither is vacuuming, but, when I can combine the two, I’m a happy person. I get the efficiency of the newest tech and more time to spend doing the things I truly love.

With a family and pets, cleaning seems like a constant job which is why I’m loving the new BISSELL CrossWave Cordless Max because I can vacuum and wash my floors at the same time with unlimited mobility and freedom. Improved edge cleaning easily picks up pet hair that gathers along baseboards and in corners of my home.

I get up to 30 minutes of cordless cleaning power with a 36V lithium ion battery and multi-surface cleaning means it’s safe and effective for use on tile, sealed wood floors, laminate, linoleum, rubber floor mats, pressed wood floors, and more. It can even refresh your area rugs.

Thanks to Two-Tank Technology that keeps clean water and formula separate from dirty water and dry debris, I get much better performance than with all the mops that promised clean floors but left traces of dirt no matter how much effort I put in. All I got from them was a sore back.

I’m also loving the Wi-Fi connected capabilities and the BISSELL Connect app which provide helpful alerts, maintenance tracking and usage tips.

Buy BISSELL®, Save Pets

Right now, BISSELL will donate $10 to BISSELL Pet Foundation® for each CrossWave® Cordless Max purchase upon activation. Just visit http://BISSELL.com/pets to register your device & BISSELL will make the donation.

Sounds like the perfect gift for the holidays or any day! Learn more and get yours at Best Buy.

This post is sponsored by Best Buy. All opinions are my own.

Upgrade to the new Breville Combi Wave 3-in-1

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I’m always on the lookout for cutting edge kitchen appliances but dislike when they take up all my counter space, which is why I’m loving the new Breville Combi Wave 3-in-1 Microwave. It’s a combination Microwave that Air Fries and is a convection oven all in one.

This means you can air fry (crunchy fries, brussel sprouts, zucchini, chicken wings), bake or roast (whole chickens, lasagna, fudge brownies) or simply microwave with precise and even heat distribution.

The Combi has a 80% quieter soft close door – so no more microwave slams! It’s also 50% quieter while in operation so you can have your stealthy late-night snack. It even comes with a child lock. Super clever!

The “Fast Combi” function of the Combi Wave 2-in-1 is designed to cook your favorite dishes faster using Microwave, Convection Oven and Grilling to achieve the desired temperature and perfect results in less time. Powered by the Element iQ system, smart algorithms steer power to where and when it’s needed to create the ideal cooking environment.

Compact, versatile, beautifully designed and equipped with smart tech, the ingenious Breville Combi Wave 3-in-1 is the perfect holiday gift for yourself or someone you love!

Learn more and get yours now at Best Buy: https://bby.me/ehh4s.

 

This is a sponsored post, written by me, on behalf of Best Buy. All opinions are my own.

Playing With Fire Movie #Giveaway

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Looking for a fun family film? These firefighters have met their match! John Cena, Keegan-Michael Key, and John Leguizamo star in Playing With Fire, in theaters November 8. Be sure to enter the giveaway below for the chance to win some movie swag. #PlayingWithFireMovie

 

 

When straight-laced fire superintendent Jake Carson (John Cena) and his elite team of expert firefighters (Keegan-Michael Key, John Leguizamo, and Tyler Mane) come to the rescue of three siblings (Brianna Hildebrand, Christian Convery, and Finley Rose Slater) in the path of an encroaching wildfire, they quickly realize that no amount of training could prepare them for their most challenging job yet – babysitters. Unable to locate the children’s parents, the firefighters have their lives, jobs and even their fire depot turned upside down and quickly learn that kids – much like fires –are wild and unpredictable.

Opening November 8, 2019. Rated PG

 

 

Website: https://tickets.playingwithfire.movie
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/playingwithfiremovie
Twitter: https://twitter.com/PlayingWfire
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/PlayingWithFire/

 

 

GIVEAWAY

2 Winners will each receive a Fire Fighter Hat (Adult), Fire Fighter Hat (Kids), Trick-or-Treat Bag, Glow-in-the-Dark Bag, Playing With Fire T-shirt (random size), and a Bubble Wand. Open to U.S. residents of the 48 contiguous United States. You must be 18 years old to enter to win. Just enter via Giveaway Tools below:

 

Disclosure: Review Wire media is partnering with me for this Paramount Pictures Giveaway.

4 Health Benefits of Laughing

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Have you taken the time to evaluate how you manage your health?

Experts keep finding more innovative ways to deal with new and ongoing health issues. They’ve explored techniques such as specialized diets, yoga, mindfulness retreats, and even self-help books. It can seem a bit overwhelming to find one that works best for you.

You can scroll through hundreds of self-help books on-line. Or, you can dream of attending that pristine retreat. It’s likely you will be surprised at how expensive some of these healthy practices can be.

You are not alone when you fear the cost of getting healthy, but there is a way to get fit on a budget. One of the least expensive ways to get your mind and body in shape is to laugh.

Comedians such as John Wynn or that newly released rom-com will surely give you a comedic break to reset your mind and body. And, if performance is not your thing, you can check out these four benefits of laughing that might change your mind.

Heart Health

A study done by the Mayo Clinic staff concluded that laughter increases how much oxygen you take in. The oxygen stimulates your heart, lungs, and muscles.

This also can lead to an increase in your heart rate and then decrease your heart rate and blood pressure, making you feel more relaxed.

Improve Your Immune System

If you are looking for a more long-term effect with the “medicine” of laughter, then how about an improved immune system?

Time and time again, people have been told about the effects that stress has on the body.

Research says that mental stress and strain can manifest into a chemical reaction that brings down your immunity. And, on the flip side, when you are positive and filled with laughter and happiness, there is a reverse effect on your immune system.

This also helps to relieve pain and improve your mood overall.

Psychological Benefits

Research published by the American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine says that being in a positive mood from spontaneous laughter (laughter induced by a stimulus) is thought to have positive cognitive effects. These effects include reduced stress, anxiety, and depression.

A great comedy show, hearing a funny joke, or just having some great fun with friends and family can increase positive thoughts. The results? Positive psychological benefits.

Increases Personal Satisfaction

There is a significant focus on personal satisfaction in this day and age. Everything is about gaining or mastering yourself and making sure that you are enjoying every moment. Who knew we all need to laugh a little more to start feeling more satisfied with ourselves?

Conclusion

Options for getting or remaining healthy can become overwhelming and daunting. If you have found yourself on the get healthy hamster wheel, take some time to have a good laugh and don’t stop laughing.

There’s a reason they say, “Laughter is the best medicine.”

5 Reasons Living Down South is Awesome

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The southeastern United States is unlike any other place on Earth. With its own distinct personality, the South is loved for its melodic drawl, mild weather, and friendly folks. If there’s a better place to live, well, Southerners just aren’t buying it. Here are a few of the best things about living in the South.

1. The Food

There is something about living in the south that makes your food taste better. They don’t call it Southern Fried Chicken for no reason. It’s because it truly is the best. Usually, a southern grandma can make it even better than that. Most people think there’s nothing more to Southern cuisine than fried chicken and barbecue. However, Lowcountry meals are so much more than that: they’re unpretentious, flavorful, and will make you feel right at home. They’re the reason Southern hospitality is a thing. Biscuits and gravy, Southern BBQ, Shrimp and grits, Mac and cheese, Fried Green Tomatoes, Collard greens, Sweet Tea – these are all must-haves when in the South.

2. The Weather

Some southern states see perfect weather. I’m talking Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter all balancing each other out, all four seasons are represented equally. Just around the time one may get tired of summer it turns into a beautiful colorful fall (which I don’t think I’d ever get sick of). Then gorgeous white snow in winters and amazing rain and flowers in spring. We have the best weather.

3. Homes

Homes for Sale in Birmingham are roughly equivalent to the national average, but housing prices will vary greatly by neighborhood. However, everyday expenses such as groceries and health care are generally lower in Birmingham than in other major metropolitan areas. Renovated houses in the most desirable downtown neighborhoods, with tree-lined streets, fetch over $200k. The new luxury condos they’re building downtown also fetch a high price.
You can still get houses for under $50k if you’re willing to do some work or live in a more modest neighborhood. There are lots of charming craftsman bungalows waiting to be restored.

4. Southern Hospitality

It really is a thing. (Almost) everyone you meet is friendly, or at least they aren’t unfriendly. Most people here will hold a door open for you or help you with something even if you don’t ask. And manners are impeccable. There are so many please’s and thank you’s and yes sir/ma’am or no sir/ma’am. You can’t go wrong with the genuinely nice people you meet in the South.

5. Y’all

Let’s just take a minute to appreciate the word “y’all”. If you grew up in the South, you use it all the time. It sounds so much nicer than “you guys” or whatever other way people would indicate a group of people. Or if it’s a large group of people, that would be “all y’all”.

Back to school with the Jetson Quest Electric Scooter

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It’s back-to-school season and the sun is shining while the weather begins to cool. If you’re looking for energy efficient transportation for your student, the Jetson Quest Electric Scooter will give them an easy and fun way to get to and around campus.

Avoid the traffic and catch a smooth ride with the Jetson Quest Scooter’s sleek design. The 250W hub motor lets you travel up to 18 miles at 15mph, while the bright LED headlight and deck lights support nighttime travel.

The solid tires are specially engineered to absorb shock when you’re riding on roads and sidewalks while the LED display clearly shows battery life, current speed and more. Ultra-bright LED headlight and taillights make your evening ride more comfortable and safe.

Personally, I think this is great for anyone 13 and up, including adults who want a new way to cruise around the neighborhood or to the local coffeehouse.

When you’re done, just use the easy-fold system to conveniently stow away this Jetson Quest electric scooter in your car’s trunk or underneath a desk.

Shop this and more electric scooters plus electric bikes and boards at Best Buy

Ride Responsibly:
The purchaser and rider of this product are responsible for knowing and obeying all state and local regulations regarding the use of this product. It is highly encouraged that you read and follow the product instructions including all safety precautions and use protective gear. Protective gear can be found at Best Buy.

Enhance Your Lifestyle with the SunBrite Veranda Series Outdoor TV

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Disclosure: The reviewer has been compensated in the form of a Best Buy Gift Card for the purposes of this review however the thoughts, opinions and excitement here are strictly my own.


 

I’ve always been passionate about being outdoors and sometimes I think if I could have my bedroom out there I would. I’m also passionate about entertainment, especially home theater, and love new tech!

 

I recently discovered the  SunBrite Veranda Series at Best Buy, a family of weatherproof televisions designed for full-shade applications. This is the best of both worlds, right? You can bring the convenience you’re used to indoors outside.

The SunBriteTV Veranda Series is a family of weatherproof televisions designed for full-shade outdoor spaces, like covered patios and screened-in porches.  They are engineered to survive just about any climate in North America, resisting the harsh effects of rain, snow, dust, insects, and extreme temperatures.

 

 

No more having to choose between enjoying the weather or watching the game or getting stuck inside because you want to binge watch Breaking Bad  or Stranger Things.  Indoor TVs don’t belong outside but SunBriteTVs are high-performance and specifically made for the outdoors and engineered for permanent outdoor installation.

 

Veranda comes standard with a direct-lit 4K UHD screen with HDR, which is up to 50% brighter than indoor TVs for improved viewing in brighter outdoor environments. It’s more durable, safer, and a better experience that using an indoor TV outdoors.



Imagine watching your favorite movie with the entire family outside, a romantic evening with your significant other, or having all your friends over to watch the game! Such a great gift idea for Father’s Day too!

 

Outdoor living trends are strong, and all-weather TVs can really enhance the outdoor lifestyle. In fact, creating an outdoor home theater is the most affordable room addition you can make, and the best seat in the house is in your backyard!


Now you can grill, eat outside and watch your favorite show – a seamless evening spent outdoors enjoying the fresh air and nature’s beauty. Save me a seat!

 

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