Many people dream of visiting Europe but consider a vacation to the continent entirely out of reach. Between the cost of your flight, accommodations, and meals, and the tours and attractions you want to experience while you’re there, many people assume they’ll spend a small fortune making it happen. And, to be fair, that’s completely possible.

Still, while a vacation to Europe is certainly more expensive than a domestic weekend getaway, your dream trip to Europe may be more affordable than you think. You can certainly live it up and splurge on an indulgent European vacation, but you can also keep things surprisingly affordable with a bit of self-restraint and foresight. A little careful planning is all it takes to plan and execute a European vacation on a pretty tight budget. Keep these tips in mind as you plan, and you’ll be able to maximize savings and make the most out of your low-cost Europe vacation:


VISIT DURING THE OFF-SEASON
For an easy way to make your trip cheaper all around make sure you schedule your vacation during your destination’s off-season. You may be faced with less-than-ideal weather conditions, but you’ll benefit from the fact that many elements of your vacation, including your flight, hotel, and rental car (if necessary) will be available at a discount. As an added bonus, you’ll face smaller crowds and shorter lines when visiting monuments, museums, and other big attractions, saving you time and stress.

CHOOSE YOUR ACCOMMODATIONS CAREFULLY
You can spend a ton of money on your hotel room, or you can do a bit of research and choose something that lets you sleep comfortably while saving a significant amount of money. Look into local hotels and run some searches outside of the major aggregators like Expedia to find options they may not pick up. Alternately, consider booking an Airbnb or seeing if you can find a low-cost bed-and-breakfast style spot to rest.


MANAGE YOUR MEALS
It can be incredibly easy to spend a ton of money on food, but with a little careful planning, you’ll be able to keep your food budget low and your family well-fed. Cut costs and keep your budget under control by eating at least one meal outside of a restaurant. Additionally, grabbing snacks from a local grocer can be far cheaper than sitting down for a proper meal.

It’s also a good idea to steer clear of any breakfast offered by your hotel. Chances are, it’s not complimentary, and you’ll spend far less cash buying your own than eating from their buffet. Instead, find something to start your day at a local bakery or cafe.

MAKE A PLAN 
When you’re traveling on a budget, it can be challenging to be spontaneous, as one of the easiest ways to ensure you can cover the cost of your trip is to plan your itinerary carefully. By researching the prices of your local bus fares, museum admissions, and other things you know you’ll want to spend money on during your travels, you’ll save yourself the headache of being surprised when it’s time to pay. Better yet, you may even uncover free days or discounts available at some of your must-see attractions.


The only thing standing between you and your dream vacation to Europe? Your ability to save and budget for your trip! By following the tips given here, you’ll be well on your way to making your budget-friendly trip to Europe a reality.

The Super Bowl is just days away, and whether you're rooting for the Patriots or the Rams, it's the perfect time to get your friends and family who enjoy the game together, after all, it only comes once a year.



If this isn't your first time hosting the Super Bowl party, then you know what you need to make it awesome, and chances are that if you've been entertaining for quite some time, then you know just what you need. However, if this is your first time hosting, then I'm here to ensure that you won't foul out with your guest, by sharing these five essentials that will guarantee you'll have an awesome Super Bowl party at home.


HAVE ENOUGH SEATS
Make sure that you have enough seats for everyone so that they're able to watch the TV. After all, it's why they're there. You can organize your chairs in your living room, den or entertainment area (wherever you'll be watching the game) so that guests can have the optimal game experience. If you don't have enough seats, ask friends to bring folding chairs, or you may even consider renting your own.

KEEP IT FUN AND FRESH
While decorations aren't a necessity, it's a good idea to have a few Super Bowl decor such as balloons, streamers or even banners. You may even consider having some real or inflatable footballs around the room. You're also going to want to make sure that your home smells fresh and clean, before guests arrive, during the game, and once the party’s over, so pick up a few cans of Febreze AIR that can be placed wherever you're watching the game, and don't forget the bathroom! You don't want foul odors causing havoc with your party. Febreze’s YouTube page has a hilarious video - starring Terrell Owens - that shows the odor madness that can ensue at your party WITHOUT Febreze, and serves as a reminder for everyone to include it on your Super Bowl party prep shopping list.


HAVE ENOUGH FOOD
A Super Bowl party isn't fun if you don't have enough food to feed everyone that will be there. Consider serving a mixture of items to satisfy everyone that will be there. While the standard snacks are a must such as dips and chips, you should also have sandwiches, pizza, wings, etc., that your guests can stock up on while watching the game. While you can have a few snacks in the game area, you can also set up a folding table so that the food is accessible to everyone easily and quickly.

Game Day is not the time to bring out your best china, you don't want your favorite plate getting broken during the excitement of a touchdown. Stock up on paper plates, cutlery, and napkins for everyone, however, be sure to choose sturdy plates that can stand up to guests' overloaded nachos and wings.

NEVER RUN OUT OF DRINKS
Speaking of food, you should also have drinks and enough of it as well. Have a variety of non-alcoholic and alcoholic beverages for everyone. Your refrigerator may not be big enough to keep them all, so think about having a cooler where you can store your drinks. Depending on the number of people who will be attending, you may even consider having a mini keg, and make sure that there is enough ice on hand to keep your drinks cold, and don't forget the can openers.

If you would prefer not to have a lot of dishes to clean up after the party, I suggest investing in disposable cups and having everyone write their names on their cups so that they can keep track of their drinkware.


So stock up on your wings, dips and all the drinks your guest can consume, but no matter what you do, don't forget the Febreze AIR which is the real MVP of the party. It will save you – and your home – from all of those offensive odors, pregame, postgame and all the time in between. Eliminate odors and be the host with the most remarkable Super Bowl party ever!

When most people start to plan a trip to France, they’re focused on experiencing the big cities. Most travelers are content to spend their time exploring well-loved spots like Paris, Strasbourg, Nice, and Marseilles, and in all fairness, those cities offer enough to satisfy almost any visitor. However, France is also home to dozens of charming small towns that are well worth a visit, too. If you’re considering a trip to France, you should make it a priority to check out at least one lesser-known spot for a different experience.

While you can’t go wrong with most small towns in France, here are a handful of excellent options to explore while you’re there:


GIVERNY
This little town is best known as the home of world-renowned painter Claude Monet. Plan a trip during the spring and tour the gardens that inspired some of Monet’s most famous works, as well as his former home. During the warmer months, you can also explore the Musée des Impressionnismes, which features an impressive array of rotating exhibits. Bring a picnic lunch to enjoy in one of the local parks or gardens, or indulge in an upscale meal at Le Jardin des Plumes.


ANNECY 
Arguably one of the most picturesque towns in France, you’ll be amazed by the breathtaking views of Lake Annecy and the mountains that surround it. During the summer, you can take advantage of the area’s gorgeous weather and natural beauty by hiking, renting bikes, paddle boarding, or parasailing. And when the holidays arrive, the “Venice of the Alps” transforms into a winter wonderland, offering a Christmas market and an outdoor ice rink.


EZE
If you’re looking for a stunning hideaway on the French Riviera, look no further than Eze, a village that’s most well-known for its impressive medieval castle. Hike to the top of the hill to experience this castle up close, or spend your days lounging by the sea, soaking up the sun. You’ll find impressive gardens, amazing seafood, and world-class hotels here, making it a great place to stop for a day when staying in nearby Nice or spend a couple of nights.



COLMAR
Visitors of Strasbourg should plan a trip to nearby Colmar, a charming town filled with historic half-timbered buildings and overflowing flower boxes. Stroll the cobblestone streets and explore “Little Venice” by foot, stopping for lunch at an open-air cafe along the canal, or see the city from a slightly different angle on a flat-bottomed boat ride along the city’s waterway.


TROYES
Troyes is widely considered one of the most romantic towns in France, and for a good reason. You’ll quickly fall in love with its hidden alleys, stunning architecture, and incredible bakeries and cafes. It’s home to a handful of museums, including the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Troyes, which highlights art and architecture, and another that focuses on historic tools and trades - as well as some excellent champagne houses.


When planning a trip to any unfamiliar country, it’s easy to focus on the most popular cities and well-loved tourist spots. However, veering off the beaten path and exploring one of France’s small towns can be a great way to experience a slightly more authentic side of this beautiful and historic nation.

During my recent trip to Canada, I slipped on a patch of black ice. I laughed it off in the moment, but as the pain rapidly increased over the next few days, I realized I may have done more damage than I initially thought. As it turns out, I was right. When I made it back to Colorado, I went straight to see a doctor and was informed I have a fracture.



Now my arm is out of commission until further notice. This makes it difficult - if not impossible - to do many of the chores I’d typically tackle around the house, like loading the dishwasher, sweeping, and shoveling the snow. Another chore I can’t manage with only one arm? Washing, drying and folding the laundry. Speaking of laundry, luckily for me, I have teens who can help with that, and they have Tide PODS to help them with their new duty.

Naturally, after a vacation, there is always quite a lot of laundry to get through. With the kids all back in school, there is also a bit extra. Fortunately, my teens have taken over laundry duty for as long as it takes for this to heal up - and who knows, maybe longer! While they aren’t too thrilled at being responsible for handling the laundry, I see it as a good learning experience for them.

Here's an easy way you can get your teens to tackle laundry day easier and quicker.

STOCK UP ON DETERGENT
I’ve even made the job easy for them by stocking the laundry room with Tide PODS. As you already know, I’m a big fan of Tide laundry detergent. It was my mother’s favorite detergent brand growing up, and it’s now become my go-to brand for tackling my family’s toughest stains. Ever since Tide PODS came out, I’ve made the switch, and I’ve been nothing but impressed.

My teens used to make a mess any time I asked them to wash a load of laundry, leaving detergent dripping all over the bottle. I’ve also questioned whether or not they used enough soap more than once. Thanks to Tide PODS, those problems are gone. All you do is toss one or two into the washer, depending on load size, start the cycle, and let the POD work its magic! I don’t have to rely on my teens to measure out detergent or wipe down the bottle when they’re finished.


I don’t just love Tide PODS because they’re convenient. They’re also incredibly effective. Many people think they’re just regular laundry detergent sealed in a dissolvable pouch, but that isn't the case at all. Tide PODS contain a new improved 4-in-1 solution consisting of concentrated Tide laundry detergent, extra odor fighters, extra stain fighters, and built-in pre-treaters. My laundry has never looked cleaner - or smelled better!

I love picking up PODS at Walmart, because they have great everyday low prices. Plus, ordering them online makes life so much easier. I've made it super easy for you to add some to your Walmart order – just click the button next to the product below! Then you can have it shipped directly to your door (free with a $35 minimum order), or schedule a time to pick up your order at your nearest store for free. This really saves me time and energy!

Keep PODS out of reach of children.



This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of Tide PODS at Walmart. The opinions and text are all mine.

Jamaica is one of the most well-known islands in the Caribbean, and it’s also one of the most family-friendly, making it a favorite vacation spot for those who plan to bring their kids along. One of the best things you can do for yourself and your family when planning a trip to Jamaica? Look into all-inclusive resorts. Bundling the price of food, amenities, entertainment, and accommodations into one flat fee is an easy way to plan a stress-free trip, and you won’t have to worry about a thing while you’re there - that’s the whole point of an all-inclusive resort.

There are some all-inclusive resorts in Jamaica more tailored toward childless guests or couples enjoying a romantic escape, but there are plenty of options well-suited for families of all ages and sizes. When looking for the best all-inclusive resorts in Jamaica to book for yourself and your family, consider these excellent options:


BEACHES NEGRIL. 
This all-inclusive resort offers something for absolutely everyone. Beaches Negril is the place to go if you’ve got little ones in tow, as they feature a kids’ club featuring Sesame Street characters, an onsite water park, a babysitting service, and tons of other amenities that’ll keep your kiddos entertained. Your older ones will love the gaming lounge, scavenger hunts, and the teen-only hours at the onsite nightclub, and everyone will enjoy easy access to the beach and the ability to try several different water sports, including snorkeling, scuba diving, water skiing, kayaking, and windsurfing.

As for Mom or Dad? Between the pristine beach, the evening entertainment, and the Red Lane Spa, you’ll find plenty to smile about, too.


HOLIDAY INN RESORT MONTEGO BAY. 
For an affordable option that genuinely caters to families, the Holiday Inn Resort Montego Bay is well worth a stay. Spend your days between the pool and the beautiful beach, and when you’re hungry, indulge in a delicious meal from one of the five restaurants available on this all-inclusive property. There are tons of activities to keep the kids busy, and parents can enjoy the luxurious spa, the onsite casino, and the live entertainment.

While this resort doesn’t necessarily qualify as a luxury property, you’ll be pleased by the quality of the amenities, the clean and comfortable guest rooms, and the caliber of the staff - especially for the price you’ll pay.


FRANKLYN D. RESORT & SPA. 
Embracing more of a boutique feel than many of the other properties on Jamaica, you will quickly fall in love with the Franklyn D. Resort & Spa’s Mediterranean-inspired architecture and ample amenities. The price you pay covers your accommodations, all of your meals, tons of amenities, and a vacation nanny who will keep your guest suite tidy, answer your questions, and entertain your children as you and your spouse sneak off for a couple’s massage or a round of golf, or to simply enjoy the beach and relax alone for a few hours.

Like many of the other all-inclusive resorts you’ll find in Jamaica, this one offers activities and amenities geared toward guests of all ages, including your teenagers. Along with the usual teen club hours and video game room, your teens can snorkel, scuba dive or go on supervised teen-only trips.


With so many all-inclusive options to choose from in Jamaica, finding the best one for you and your family can feel like a challenge. Rest assured, you can’t go wrong with any of these three family-friendly spots!

I’m beyond excited to spend spring break in Australia with Madison this year. I’ve been planning this vacation for quite a while - after all, you don’t get too many opportunities to fly halfway around the world. And I’m glad I’ve done my research because I’ve stumbled upon quite a few things that have caught me by surprise.

Whether you’re only dreaming of a far-off adventure to the land down under or you’re getting ready to book your tickets for your trip, here are a few things you should know if you’re planning to visit Australia:


1- YOU'RE GOING TO NEED A VISA
I had no idea I’d need to get a visit to visit Australia until I started the process of planning my trip. Fortunately, the process is simple, affordable, and quick. American visitors can apply for an Electronic Travel Authority online. For a small processing fee of 20AUD, you’ll get a visa that lets you visit Australia for three months at a time for up to a year.

The idea of getting a visa may sound like a pain, but they make the process relatively simple, and it’s fast, too. Your visa application will typically be processed in less than a day. Does that mean you should wait until the last minute to get your visa squared away? Absolutely not. But it does make it a pretty painless process, which makes me happy.

2 - CARS DRIVE ON THE LEFT -  NOT THE RIGHT 
Unless you’re in an area with excellent public transit and don’t plan on venturing too far, you’ll need to rent a car to get the most out of your trip to Australia. It’s important to remember that Australians drive on the “wrong” side of the road as far as Americans are concerned - in other words, they drive on the left.

3 - DIAL OOO INSTEAD OF 911 IN AN EMERGENCY
This is one of those things you hope you’ll never need to know. However, if an emergency situation arises, you don’t want to find yourself at a loss for the local equivalent of 911. Dialing 000 will connect you with local emergency dispatch in Australia.


4 - YOU DON'T HAVE TO TIP 
Tipping culture is very different in Australia than in America. You aren’t supposed to tip cab drivers, hotel bellhops or housekeepers, hair stylists, or massage therapists. Tipping is also not expected at restaurants, bars, or cafes. However, if you would like to leave a token of appreciation for excellent service or great conversation, a 10% tip won’t offend anyone - especially in areas that see a lot of tourists.

5 - AUSTRALIA ISN'T CHEAP
Don’t be caught off guard by the fact that prices for goods and services in Australia are higher than they are in the U.S. This is especially true in the bigger cities, like Sydney and Melbourne. Make sure you budget enough to cover your expenses comfortably.


It’s always important to do your research before visiting any new country, but when you’re planning a trip to somewhere as far away as Australia, it’s critical to know what you’re getting into before you get on your plane. I hope these tips will help you get ready for your own Australian adventure - I know they’ve helped me!

Planning your very first vacation to Europe can be an exciting experience, but it can also be a little scary. Europe is home to 50 countries, and many of them have their own language, currency, and culture. For those who haven’t traveled too far beyond the United States, the idea setting off to such an unfamiliar place can be more intimidating than inspiring. Fortunately, there are some spots that are much more forgiving and friendly for first-time travelers than others. As long as you choose the right place to visit, you’ll be well-equipped to find your way around and enjoy your vacation comfortably.

If you’re planning your very first trip to Europe, stress less and focus on the fun by exploring one of these easy-to-visit cities:


LONDON 
Arguably one of the most well-known cities in the world, London is an obvious choice for the average American’s first trip abroad. After all, you’re likely familiar with many of the city’s landmarks and attractions, like Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, and the London Eye, and since they speak English, you won’t have to overcome any language barriers while you’re there. You’ll have a blast exploring the city on foot, by cab, or through the Underground, and with more shops, restaurants, and things to do than you could ever hope to experience, there’s no chance you’ll find yourself bored.



DUBLIN 
Another favorite city for first-time Europe visitors, this Irish city is much smaller than London, making it a bit less intimidating for those who don’t spend much time in major metropolitan areas. There’s plenty to keep you and your family busy here, but you won’t find yourself overwhelmed with options. Tour Trinity College, experience the Guinness Storehouse, admire the local cathedrals and soak up the stunning scenery.


PARIS 
Many people dream of visiting the City of Lights, and as one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, it’s a solid choice for your first trip to Europe. Regardless of the season, you’ll find no shortage of incredible restaurants, museums, shops, shows, and attractions to experience while you’re there. While the language barrier may frustrate some travelers, you’ll find you can make your way by with minimal French - most locals know English, especially those who work at major tourist attractions like the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre.


BARCELONA
Regarded by many to be one of the most tourist-friendly cities in the world, Barcelona is an excellent choice for any first-time traveler to Europe. This Spanish city is most well known for being the home of the Sagrada Familia, Gaudi’s unfinished cathedral, but there’s so much more to see and do in Barcelona! Sample authentic tapas and Spanish wine, indulge in a little retail therapy at name-brand shops and independent boutiques, admire the beaches, and enjoy all this incredible city has to offer. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself planning your trip back before you even leave!


Eliminate much of the stress that comes with planning your first vacation to Europe by choosing to visit one of these tourist-friendly cities, or do some research to find another place you’ll feel confident exploring on your own.

The new year is here, and many of us have set resolutions for the months ahead. In my household, goal-setting is something the whole family participates in each year. I think it’s important to have something to focus on and work toward, and I encourage my children to consider long and hard at the start of each year to determine what goals they want to pursue to become a better person.



But it can be hard for kids to come up with goals on their own, and once they set them, they don’t always know how to achieve them. Fortunately, you’re well-equipped to help out as a parent. Here are some steps you can take to help your child set and meet their 2019 goals:

Help them define their goals. Sometimes, actually setting a goal can be the hardest part of the whole process. It can be tough to find a balance between a goal that’s ambitious and one that’s completely unrealistic. You can support your child by asking some guiding questions, helping them brainstorm, and giving examples of goals they may want to set for themselves.

Write their goals down. It’s important to keep goals on your mind. Help your child keep their focus on their goals by writing them down. Put them on a piece of paper taped to their bedroom wall or bathroom mirror, or write them in a journal that they’ll use to track their progress. Keep them visible and revisit them often!


Share their goals with others. Telling others about your goals can be a great way to give yourself a little extra credibility. Encourage your child to share their goals with a sibling or a friend - someone who will encourage them and cheer them on.

Use technology to your advantage. In 2019, there’s no denying technology plays an important role in our daily lives. While it’s important to find a healthy balance when it comes to incorporating technology into your life, when used wisely, it can be tremendously helpful in helping you - and your child - chase your goals. You can use technology to find inspiration for goals, track your progress, and in some cases, even make progress toward achieving your goals.


One great tech tool to help your kids pursue their goals? The Fire HD 8 Kids Edition Tablet. This device is the #1 kids’ tablet in the U.S., and it’s easy to see why. A free one-year subscription to Amazon FreeTime Unlimited gives you easy access to thousands of educational books, videos, games.

The Fire Kids Edition can help your child:

Improve your child’s math scores. You’ll find hundreds of educational games to sharpen your child’s skills and help them get critical practice in the areas they need it most. The best part? They’ll have fun while they learn!
Read more books. With a free one-year subscription to Amazon FreeTime Unlimited, you and your child will have access to thousands of kid-friendly books to help your child reach their reading goals.


Cut down on screen time. This goal is likely one set by parents - not children. Still, it’s a goal worth pursuing in the new year, and it’s one your Fire Kids Edition can help you achieve. These kid-friendly tablets come equipped with robust settings that allow you to control the amount of time your child spends on their tablet. Remotely adjust age filters, enable or disable web browser access, and review the content your kid uses on the device remotely using the Parent Dashboard, an online portal that gives you insight into and control over what kind of material your child consumes. It definitely gives me the peace of mind I need to let Madison use her tablet without my constant supervision, which is something I appreciate!


As I’ve mentioned on this blog before, Madison loves her Fire Kids Edition. This year, we plan to use it to help her reach her reading goal. With plenty of vacations in our future, it’s great to know she’ll have easy access to her own virtual library wherever our travels take us! And since the Parent Dashboard gives me the ability to keep an eye on how she’s using her Fire Kids Edition, I’ll be able to see how much time she spends reading versus playing games and browsing the web.


Consider the ways a Fire Kids Edition tablet could help you and your child reach your 2019 goals! With Amazon Prime, you could have yours in hand in as little as two days!

Check out this quick video on how easy it is to control her goals via the Parent Dashboard.

Laundry is just one of those chores that are not only time-consuming but when you have kids, can become expensive quickly as well. Unless you're Midas rich and can wear an outfit for a day and toss it, I'm here to share how you can get your laundry done for as little as possible.



While I grew up in a middle-class family, my mother instilled the value of stretching a dollar. It was always her philosophy that instead of buying products that were cheap that lasted just a few days, you spend the extra purchasing the good stuff so that it would last longer. That is something that has been ingrained in me, even now that she's passed on. When it comes to laundry, you may wonder, well how can you save money doing laundry? Don't despair, I'm here to share my trade secrets with you.


1. WASH LESS OFTEN
This may surprise you, but there really is no need to wash every piece of clothing after only one use. As a matter of fact, if you wear your shirts with an undershirt, you can then wear that shirt later if not stained. Jeans are another example of clothing that can be washed after multiple uses. Washing less often preserves the life of your clothes and saves you money in the long run as well.

2. CONSIDER USING LESS DETERGENT
I can't tell you how many times my kids have poured laundry detergent into the machine as if they were pouring water, thereby using way too much detergent than recommended. One of the easiest ways to save money on detergent is to use less of it, especially if you're using liquid. While the manufacturer has a recommended line, you can often use less than that if your clothes aren't too soiled, not only will your clothes come out just as clean, but you'll be saving money as well. It's one of the reasons why I love using Tide PODS. One POD does the work, and I have no problem with them overusing.


3. BUY THE GOOD STUFF
Trying to save money by buying the "cheap" detergent can actually work out costing you more money in the long run, because you'll end up using more because your clothes aren't getting clean. This has happened to me which is why I can tell you, buy the good stuff. It's also why I buy Tide - the #1 Stain Removal*, #1 Odor Removal*, #1 Trusted**

If you think that it's too expensive, I have good news for you. For limited time get $3 OFF ONE Tide PODS (excludes Tide Liquid/Powder Laundry Detergent, Tide Simply, Tide Simply PODS, and Tide PODS 9 ct and below, and trial/travel size) or $3 OFF ONE Tide Detergent (excludes Tide PODS, Tide Simply, Tide Simply PODS, Tide Detergent 10 oz and trial/travel size) by printing your coupon at home at P&G Everyday Brandsaver. The offer is valid nationally at all retailers from 1/25 - 2/2.


4. CHOOSE YOUR TEMPERATURE WISELY
This may come as a shock to your system, but you don't need to wash all your clothing in hot water. By not using hot water, you reduce your energy cost with every load you wash.  As a matter of fact, cold or warm water does the job just as well. Did you know that heat can actually help set some stains into your clothing instead of removing them? Washing your clothing in cold water helps to reduce wrinkles, shrinkage, and fading of your clothing thus also saving you money in the long run.

5. CLEAN YOUR APPLIANCES
How many of you clean your washing machine? You may think that you don't need to, but cleaning your washer once a month helps to remove soap residue, excess dirt and leftover chemicals that can trap bacteria in your machine. Not only can it start making your washer "stinky" but that smell may even begin to show up on your clothing. Cleaning your washer isn't a time-consuming job, and a quick Google search can teach you how to clean your specific machine, whether it's a top or front loader.

Also be sure to clean your dryer as well. Remove the lint from your lint remover before every load. A dirty lint trap means that your dryer has to work overtime to dry your clothing, which will end up costing you money in the long run. When putting your laundry in, make sure that they aren't tangled so that they can dry more quickly, once again cutting down your laundry cost.

If you’re looking for the perfect spot to escape for your next vacation, look no further than the islands of the Caribbean. Home to hundreds of islands, each with its own local flair and personality, you’re sure to find something to suit you and your travel buddies, whoever they might be. Some Caribbean islands are better for couples looking for a relaxing getaway, while others are perfect for people looking to party until the sun comes up. And if you’re traveling with family? There are a handful of Caribbean islands that rise above the rest as the best places to visit with kids. Here are a few of my top spots:


JAMAICA. 
Whether you’re planning your first visit to the Caribbean or you’re a seasoned visitor, you can’t go wrong with a trip to Jamaica. Home to friendly and fun-loving locals, incredible weather, and affordable prices, it’s hard to have a bad time here. This lush island offers a seemingly endless array of things to experience, so you won’t need to worry about keeping your kids entertained. If you’re an active, adventure-loving family, you won’t run out of ways to stay busy as between hiking through rainforests to find hidden waterfalls, ziplining through the canopy, and exploring on horseback.

And if you prefer something a little more laid back? Relax on a beach with a good book while your little ones build sandcastles or splash in the surf, or take advantage of the convenience you’ll find at one of the many world-class all-inclusive resorts on the island, packed with more than enough amenities to keep you and your family busy for a few days.


THE BAHAMAS. 
Families will find it easy to have a great time in the Bahamas. With many direct flights and cruise ships arriving daily in Nassau, these islands are some of the most accessible in the Caribbean. Stay in Nassau to enjoy beautiful beaches and explore the island’s rich history, or cross the bridge to Paradise Island and experience Atlantis, one of the most well-known and family-friendly resorts you’ll find anywhere.

Some travelers are actually surprised to learn that Nassau is in fact NOT the only island in the Bahamas. Instead, you’ll find lots of other islands to explore if you’d prefer something slightly off the beaten path. You can snorkel with sea turtles and soak up the sun on Great Abaco Island, tour Grand Bahama by ATV, or make your way to the famous Pig Beach on Big Major Cay for a chance to meet the legendary water-loving pigs that live there.


TURKS AND CAICOS. 
Home to some of the most pristine beaches in the Caribbean, stunning coral reefs, and plenty for visitors to see and do, Turks and Caicos have become a favorite for family-friendly travel, especially for those with a slightly larger budget. While it is known to be one of the more expensive spots in the Caribbean, Turks and Caicos is well-known for boasting one of the lowest crime rates in the region, making it a popular choice for families concerned about safety. Search for seashells on the sugar-white sands, snorkel and swim in the crystal-clear water, and indulge in some of the freshest seafood you’ll find anywhere.


While it’s hard to go wrong with a trip to any island in the Caribbean, there are certainly some that rise above the rest as top spots to enjoy with kids. These are just a few of my favorites!

If your family is as busy as mine is, snacks probably play a pretty important role in your day. Whether you’re running from one appointment to the next or heading to a soccer game, choir concert or karate lesson, grabbing a quick snack can be just what you need to keep hunger at bay and your energy levels in check.



But keeping my family happy isn’t as simple as filling the pantry with the same snacks each week. I’ve tried that, and it doesn’t take long for interest to fade. The bag of chips everyone loved three weeks ago? Not too exciting once you’ve bought it three times in a row. Instead, I try to keep things exciting by having a variety of snacks handy - and by always keeping my eyes peeled for fun new flavors of our favorites to try.

That’s why I’m excited to announce new Go-GURT flavors are now available! Yogurt is one of my family’s favorite snacks, and it’s one I’m always happy to keep around the house. It’s delicious and easy to eat when you’ve only got five minutes to spend in the kitchen -  or worse, when you’ve got to eat on the go. And while it certainly helps my family fill up when we’re in a rush, it’s also a treat we can sit down and share together as we fill each other in on the details of our days, play board games or watch television.


My family is excited for the brand-new Go-GURT flavors - Watermelon and Green Apple. These two flavors are inspired by JOLLY RANCHER, which are one of my family’s favorite treats.

We got our hands on the JOLLY RANCHER Go-GURT the moment we could so my family was able to give them a try. My family loves the Green Apple Go-GURT. Not only do they make a great addition to Madison’s lunch box, and are a must-have in the cooler on family road trips, but they are also an easy snack to enjoy when we’re hanging out around the house.


To spark some family fun I’m excited to celebrate the launch of these new flavors by holding a blind taste test with my family. I'm going to break out a couple of our favorite flavors and the new JOLLY RANCHER Go-GURT varieties, blindfold the kids, and see who can guess the most correctly.

If you’re as excited as I am about these new JOLLY RANCHER Go-GURT flavors, keep your eyes peeled at your local grocer and give them a try!

To learn more about the new the new Go-GURT flavors, visit GoGurt.com.