Protecting Employee Comfort

A comfortable workplace helps employees stay focused and productive. When a commercial air conditioning system fails, indoor temperatures can rise quickly, especially in busy offices, retail stores, restaurants, warehouses, and medical facilities.

Uncomfortable conditions may lead to lower morale, reduced concentration, and more complaints. Prompt repair service helps restore a better work environment before the issue affects daily performance.

Improving Customer Experience

Customers expect commercial spaces to feel clean, comfortable, and welcoming. If a store, restaurant, or service location feels too warm, customers may leave sooner or avoid returning. For businesses that rely on foot traffic, poor indoor comfort can directly affect sales and reputation.

Fast air conditioning repairs help businesses maintain a professional environment and provide a better experience for visitors.

Preventing Bigger System Problems

Small HVAC issues can turn into major repairs if they are ignored. Weak airflow, unusual noises, refrigerant problems, electrical issues, or inconsistent cooling may signal a system that needs attention. Waiting too long can put extra strain on components and increase the chance of a full breakdown.

Timely air conditioner commercial repair can help identify the cause of the problem early and reduce the risk of more expensive damage.

Protecting Equipment and Inventory

Some businesses depend on controlled indoor temperatures to protect equipment, supplies, products, or sensitive materials. Electronics, food products, medical supplies, and certain manufacturing materials may be affected by excessive heat or humidity.

Fast cooling repairs help protect these assets and reduce the risk of product loss, equipment failure, or operational delays.

Reducing Business Downtime

A major air conditioning failure can interrupt normal operations. Employees may need to relocate, customers may avoid the building, and certain services may be delayed. In some cases, businesses may need to close temporarily until conditions improve.

Quick repairs help minimize downtime and allow the business to continue operating with fewer interruptions.

Supporting Energy Efficiency

A malfunctioning air conditioning system often works harder than necessary. This can increase energy use and raise utility costs. Problems such as dirty coils, failing motors, low refrigerant, or blocked airflow can reduce efficiency.

Repairing issues quickly can help restore proper performance and prevent wasted energy.

Maintaining Indoor Air Quality

Commercial HVAC systems also help manage ventilation, humidity, and air circulation. When the system is not working properly, indoor air quality may decline. This can create discomfort, odors, humidity issues, or poor airflow throughout the building.

Fast repairs help keep air moving properly and support a healthier indoor environment.

Final Thoughts

Fast commercial air conditioning repairs are essential for protecting comfort, productivity, customer satisfaction, and business operations. Addressing problems early can prevent larger system failures, reduce downtime, improve efficiency, and protect valuable equipment or inventory. For any business, a reliable cooling system is not just a convenience—it is part of maintaining a safe and professional environment.

The post The Importance of Fast Commercial Air Conditioning Repairs appeared first on In The Kitchen With KP.

Research, research, research
Just like planning what to do when you’re traveling somewhere new, take time to plan what you’ll eat. At the very least learn how people eat. Wouldn’t it be a shame to miss out on a great meal because you didn’t take the time to do a little digging? Sometimes you’ll discover something you truly would never expect! Looking for a vegan restaurant Charlottesville visit Bang. You may also save money with hotels with free breakfast for families on your road trips. And if your love for exploring goes beyond food, consider checking out Silk Road Train Tour Packages for a journey filled with culture, history, and unforgettable flavors.

Shop Where Locals Shop
In the US, many grocery stores or markets look nearly the same with their practical shelving solution for supermarkets. But, visit the deli and hot food sections to discover local specialties you might not have heard of. Bakeries are also a great spot to do this. Ask employees what item they sell the most of, or if there are any specialty items for that specific time of year.

Eat in a Local Home
The very best food anywhere is the food eaten in someone’s home. Very few restaurants can achieve the same quality and taste as a well-prepared home cooked meal. If you’re fortunate enough to be invited to someone’s home for a meal, take it! If not, well technology has made it possible to make the connection between travelers and locals. Websites like Feastly, EatWith and EatWithALocal connect travelers with locals who want to share their food traditions. While there is a price involved, it’s far less (in most cases) than most mid-price restaurants and the experience will be much more meaningful. Looking for restaurants Lynchburg visit Neighbors Place. You also can consider contacting the local chamber of commerce or tourist bureau to see if they have other suggestions or contacts for locals who might be interested in this type of exchange.

Street Food
In the last few years street food has come back strong. In some locations it never disappeared while in other cities it never existed. Food trucks, pop up restaurants, and pushcarts serve a wide range of products. From the lowly hot dog to upscale lobster rolls, you’ll be amazed at what they create! For a fun way to explore different cities while sampling local eats, Book a motorcycle in France to see more and travel freely.

Have a secret tip to scoring the best food in a destination? Id’ love to hear how you explore and find the best food in your destination.

The post How to Explore the Food Culture of a Country or City appeared first on In The Kitchen With KP.

Helps Set a Realistic Budget

Planning ahead allows homeowners to understand the expected costs before work begins. Materials, labor, permits, design changes, and unexpected repairs can all affect the final price. By creating a detailed budget early, homeowners can avoid overspending and make better decisions about which upgrades matter most.

Makes the Project More Organized

A remodeling project often involves many moving parts. Scheduling workers, ordering materials, preparing rooms, and managing timelines all require coordination. Working with a kitchen remodeling contractor can help homeowners organize important details and keep the project moving in the right direction. Make sure to consult a renovation company like this for professional services.

Reduces Unexpected Delays

Delays can happen when materials are unavailable, permits are missing, or decisions are made too late. Careful planning helps reduce these problems by identifying needs before construction begins. When homeowners choose finishes, layouts, and fixtures in advance, the project is more likely to stay on schedule.

Improves Comfort During the Process

Remodeling can temporarily disrupt daily life. Homeowners may lose access to certain rooms, deal with noise, or need to adjust routines. Planning helps families prepare for these disruptions. For example, scheduling air conditioning repair before a major project can help keep the home comfortable while work is underway.

Creates Better Design Results

A strong plan helps ensure the final design matches the homeowner’s needs and lifestyle. During kitchen remodeling, this may include improving storage, adding counter space, upgrading lighting, or creating a better layout for cooking and gathering. Thoughtful design choices can make the finished space more practical and enjoyable.

Helps Avoid Costly Mistakes

Changing plans in the middle of a project can lead to extra costs and delays. Careful planning reduces the chance of mistakes by giving homeowners time to review options, compare materials, and confirm details before work starts. This makes the remodeling process smoother and more predictable.

Adds Long-Term Value

A well-planned remodel can improve both daily living and resale value. Buyers often appreciate updated spaces, quality materials, and functional layouts. When improvements are planned carefully, they are more likely to provide lasting benefits for years to come.

Conclusion

Careful planning is the foundation of a successful home remodeling project. It helps control costs, reduce delays, improve design choices, and create a smoother experience from start to finish. With the right preparation, homeowners can enjoy a finished space that is beautiful, functional, and built to support their long-term needs.

The post The Benefits of Planning a Home Remodeling Project Carefully appeared first on In The Kitchen With KP.

Constant Leaks or Drips

One of the clearest signs that a fixture needs replacement is frequent leaking. A dripping faucet or running toilet may seem minor at first, but over time it can waste water and increase utility bills. If repairs no longer solve the problem, replacing the fixture is often the better long-term option.

Rust, Corrosion, or Mineral Buildup

Visible rust, corrosion, or heavy mineral buildup can signal that a fixture is reaching the end of its useful life. These issues can affect water flow, damage seals, and make fixtures harder to clean. In some cases, corrosion may also indicate deeper plumbing concerns that should be inspected before they become serious.

Low Water Pressure

Low water pressure from a faucet or showerhead may be caused by clogged aerators, mineral deposits, or worn internal parts. If cleaning does not restore proper flow, replacement may be necessary. Newer fixtures are designed to provide better performance while using water more efficiently.

Frequent Repairs

If a fixture requires repeated repairs, replacement can save time and money. Constantly fixing handles, seals, cartridges, or valves may only delay a larger issue. Homeowners dealing with sudden leaks or fixture failures may need help from an emergency plumber in Statesville, NC to prevent water damage and restore normal use quickly.

Outdated Appearance

Old fixtures can make kitchens and bathrooms look worn, even if the rest of the space is clean and well maintained. Replacing outdated faucets, showerheads, and toilets can give a room a fresher, more modern appearance without requiring a full remodel.

Poor Water Efficiency

Older fixtures often use more water than newer models. Upgrading to water-efficient faucets, toilets, and showerheads can reduce waste and help lower monthly utility costs. These improvements are especially useful for homeowners who want a more sustainable and cost-conscious home.

Replacing old plumbing fixtures is a practical way to improve comfort, efficiency, and appearance. Signs such as leaks, corrosion, low water pressure, frequent repairs, and outdated design should not be ignored. With timely upgrades, homeowners can protect their property, improve daily convenience, and reduce the risk of larger plumbing problems in the future.

The post Signs It’s Time to Replace Old Plumbing Fixtures appeared first on In The Kitchen With KP.

I love entertaining friends and family around the holidays. The time from November to February is just one big festive celebration in my book. The more parties I host, the more I like to think I’m improving my hostess with the mostest skills. Today I’m sharing some of my favorite Time Saving Tips for Planning Holiday Parties with you. Soon enough you too will be planning your holiday parties like a pro! Get in touch with fast fire watch guards to hire professional security and keep every celebration safe and stress-free. The games at ufa8k may provide entertainment to your guests throughout the party.

And then what makes canvas celebration spaces particularly appealing is their ability to create an exclusive atmosphere regardless of the chosen location. The structural design allows for complete customization of lighting, décor, and seating arrangements while maintaining the rustic charm that makes outdoor weddings so memorable. Provide ample shading with outdoor awnings Melbourne. If you’re working on projects like this, make sure to get fall protect systems. Get a free quote here. Working with experienced providers like Bar Events UK ensures that every technical detail is handled professionally, from initial setup through final breakdown, allowing couples to focus entirely on enjoying their special day. Are you looking for a mobile coffee cart especially made for you? Make sure to contact Coffee Cart Jacksonville today. Contact Cafe Cotier if you also plan to book a coffee cart for your event.

Planning to entertain in your home is time consuming. You have a ton to do for each event. Don’t even get me started on cleaning the house for guests. However, one of the best time savers I’ve learned is to use the Club Pickup at my local Sam’s Club. Club Pickup is a free service for Sam’s Club members. Members go online and order whatever they need from their local club location, then schedule a time to pick up your order that is convenient. It’s a great way to save time for your holiday party planning. Fill your cart online, and the club will gather all your selections and have them ready for you.

Head into your local Sam’s Club and head to the Club Pickup kiosk. Next scan your club card, and your order pops up on the screen for you to review. Once you’ve reviewed and ready to pick up, a Sam’s Club team member selects your filled cart in the fenced area.

All that’s left for you to do is pay and head out to your car. Payment for Club Pickup is easy. Most credit cards are accepted, as well as debit cards, gift cards, and of course cash. You have a choice of how you want to pay for your Club Pickup. If you pay online, a receipt will be emailed. If you choose to pay in club, then you will receive a receipt at the time of payment. Since I can’t always get my husband to grocery shop with me, using Club Pickup when purchasing heavier items, like all our favorite Coca-Cola® beverages and bulky boxes of appetizers is a no brainer.

The only thing missing from Club Pickup is enjoying all the free samples around the store, and stopping in the cafe for a super cheap slice and a Coca-Cola® combo for a speedy lunch. That is one of my favorite perks of being a Sam’s Club member.

Speaking of food, I’m going to tell you straight up right now. A party’s success is determined by it’s food and beverage options for your guests. It’s important you properly plan your menu in direct relation to the established time of your party. Beverage formulation is made possible by companies like ocean blue innovation. If you love making coffee, then the West Berkshire Roastery coffee subscription is perfect for coffee lovers who value quality and convenience. If you plan a party over a standard meal time frame, then you should plan to prepare a more hearty menu for your guests. If it’s an evening party that starts after 7, then appetizers, desserts and refreshments are typically sufficient. I like to cover all the bases and offer an entree-style dish in a smaller portion size at all my parties. One of my go-to recipes is meatballs in a slow cooker. You can go traditional Italian with sauce, or less traditional like buffalo chicken style meatballs. I like to provide an assortment of roll sizes from a bite-sized slider to a larger club roll. This way, I cover all sizes of appetites. And if you’re hosting a daytime gathering, adding a beverage station or even Coffee Catering in Bend Oregon can elevate the experience and give guests something memorable to enjoy alongside the food.

I prefer to prepare two separate beverage bars for my guests. I like to present all the non-alcoholic options front and center for guests, while keeping alcoholic options in a more secure area for adults only. I’m all about getting guest their first beverage of the party as I welcome them and show them where the beverage bars are located. Once they have their first drink, then I let them know they are on their own for any refills. It’s great Sam’s Club has the new Sprite® Mini-Cans in a 30 pack for the holiday season. They are perfect for mixing cocktails or when you only want about half of a typical size can.

I’ve found many guests just enjoy snacking while socializing at any event. Sam’s club offers some of the best ready-for-the-oven appetizers in my opinion. There’s no shame in buying premade snacks and simply heating them all up for the party. Why wouldn’t you, when it gives you more time to sit back, put your feet up, and enjoy an icy cold Coca-Cola®, or in my case a Diet Coke®, while waiting for your guests to arrive.

 

 

 

 

 

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Is your holiday shopping done? Mine’s not, but that’s ok. I’m kicking back and enjoying a pick me up. How are you keeping the stress level down as the holidays are fast approaching? #VeryMerryPairings . . . . . #InTheKitchen #HolidayEats #AppetizerRecipe #CocaCola #GoodEats #Foodie #FoodBlogger #Entertaining #PartyFood

A post shared by Karen Hartzell (@inthekitchenkp) on Dec 19, 2018 at 12:19pm PST

You can find all your favorite Coca-Cola® products (including Coca-Cola®, Sprite®, Gold Peak® Sweet Tea, Dasani®, and Diet Coke®) at Sam’s Club this holiday season. Stock up with Club Pickup at your local Sam’s Club and save time, as well as money. Learn more here

What’s your best holiday party planning tip to share?

The post Time Saving Tips for Planning Holiday Parties appeared first on In The Kitchen With KP.

“Tis the season my friends. The season of holiday parties! If there’s one thing I like sharing here in the kitchen, it’s delicious appetizer recipes to be served at parties. The best appetizer recipes are easy to prepare without sacrificing flavor. These Coca-Cola® Pulled Pork Pinwheels fit the bill perfectly and will wow your guests. Your friends will think you worked so hard in the kitchen, but really your slow cooker does all the hard work.

I knew I wanted to do something different with the typical barbecue pulled pork. Sometimes sandwiches can be either too messy or too filling for a party. These pinwheels were whimsical enough to be festive, yet still simple to not take too much time to prep. Living in Atlanta for six years, I learned making pulled pork with Coca-Cola® is a timeless favorite in the south. Crazy enough I had never taken the time to make it, and I needed a proven recipe. Did you ever wonder what is an animal-based diet? Corey breaks it down on their blog. I messaged one of my favorite southern girls, Lindsey, from Redhead Baby Mama, and of course she had a recipe to share.

Coca-Cola® pulled pork recipes vary with added seasonings, and the cook’s choice of barbecue sauce, but the classic Coca-Cola® is fundamental for that special zing of flavor. To make mine, I first coated a bone-in pork butt with season salt and placed it in my slow cooker. Then I drizzled some of my favorite barbecue sauce, and finally poured a Coca-Cola® Mini Can over the pork. Boom. Prep was done.

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I placed the lid on my slow cooker, and let the pork cook low and slow for 8-10 hours. After cooking that long, the pork is easily shredded. I like to add extra barbecue sauce and about half of another Coca-Cola® Mini Can. Look at the yummy, shredded goodness.

I love to plan and host holiday parties. Over the years, I’ve learned to help reduce the stress of planning by stock piling entertaining essentials well in advance of the holiday party season. Paper goods, beverages, and packaged snacks don’t spoil, so why not keep them stocked in the pantry ready to grab when needed? I made a trip to my local Sam’s Club this past weekend and purchased a variety of our favorite Coca-Cola® products. I can always count on my youngest kitchen assistant to help me shop, in between video games that is at least. It’s great to find the larger packs available too. Buying in bulk means fewer trips to the store closer to the party date, and that makes for a more relaxed party planner.

Coca-Cola® and Sprite® Mini Cans are perfect for mixing individual cocktails or pouring straight over ice. I usually pick up Diet Coke® as well for guests that prefer it. I always make sure to include options for non-soda drinkers as well. I keep plenty of Dasani® on hand to keep everyone hydrated and of course Gold Peak® Sweet Tea is a perfect complement to good ‘ol southern barbecue pulled pork. I may not be able to order sweet tea at restaurants in my area now, but I can keep bottles of Gold Peak® Sweet Tea in my refrigerator for when the craving strikes.

So anyhoo…back to prepping the pinwheels. To save time, I used store bought puff pastry. Ain’t nobody got time for making their own puff pastry when making an assortment of appetizers for entertaining. I’m all about saving time and effort where I can. Besides, store bought tastes way better than any attempt I would create. Simply spread out the puff pastry square, spread a layer of slightly cooled pulled pork onto the dough, sprinkle with shredded cheese, then roll up the dough into a tube shape. Easy peasy.

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Once you have rolled the dough, slice the tube into 1 inch sections, and place on a sheet pan for baking. I used a whoopie pie pan because it was the first thing I grabbed. The second batch I used a regular baking sheet with a layer of parchment paper. The latter is great for easy cleanup too. Another plus for low stress entertaining.

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To bake the pinwheels, I followed the directions on the puff pastry box. I preheated the oven to 400 degrees F and baked for 10-12 minutes until the pinwheels were lightly browned. You can see how gorgeous the pinwheels look fresh out of the oven. You can definitely make them with or without cheese. They were delicious both ways. You won’t be disappointed with either version. I promise.

Learn more about the products I found at Sam’s Club here. What’s your favorite recipe to prepare and serve while entertaining?

Coca-Cola Pulled Pork Pinwheels

 

Print

Prep time

15 mins

Cook time

10 hours

Total time

10 hours 15 mins

 

Author: KP

Recipe type: Appetizer

Cuisine: American

Ingredients

• 3-4 lb pork butt
• Season salt
• 1 16 oz bottle of your favorite barbecue sauce
• 2 Coca-Cola Mini Cans
• 1 box puff pastry dough
• 1 C shredded cheddar jack cheese (optional)

Instructions

1. Remove pork butt from wrapper and coat with season salt.
2. Place pork butt in slow cooker.
3. Pour ½ bottle of your favorite barbecue sauce over pork
4. Pour 1 mini can of Coca-Cola over pork butt and cover with lid.
5. Slow cook on low 8-10 hours until easily shredded with a fork.
6. After shredding pork, add remaining ½ bottle of barbecue sauce and ½ mini can of Coca-Cola and mix thoroughly.
7. Unwrap puff pastry sheet and place on parchment paper on a baking sheet.
8. Spread slightly cooled, shredded pork onto puff pastry sheet.
9. Sprinkle shredded cheese on pork if desired, and roll up the pastry sheet into a log shape.
10. Slice the log into ½ inch slices and place them on a baking sheet.
11. Bake the pinwheel slices according to the puff pastry box directions.
12. Remove and serve warm.

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This year I’m looking to stock up on games and brush up on my blackout bingo skillz for family game night. As my kids are getting older, I want to make sure we still spend some time as a family before they are too cool to hang with mom and dad. All the games I’m sharing are under $20, and won’t make you want to bang your head on the table while playing with kids of all ages. Ummm…hellooooo Candyland! Don’t get me wrong. I love Candyland, but not 42 times in a row when your kid wants to keep a winning streak going! Stock up on a game or two. Wrap them in a totally different paper from anything under the tree, and just mark them from Santa. You’re sure to get a few curious looks from everyone, not just the kiddos. All these games are great options to keep as spare gifts under the tree too. No more getting caught without a gift to reciprocate.

1. Battleship
A classic that will never go out of style. 2 people or teams. Boat loads of fun. See what I did there?

2. Apples to Apples
My kids love this game, even if they need help with some of the option. Many laughs will be had by all.

3. Uno
Draw 4. Reverse. Skip. No need to say anymore. Keep a deck on hand to liven up any gathering.

4. Scrabble
This one may be harder for younger kids, but they can always play with an adult as a team. It never hurts to get them started young expanding their vocabulary and practice spelling.

5. Scattergories
Great for a crowd. Working as a team will gather way more answers and hopefully end up in more points to win and lots of laughs.

6. Yahtzee
This ones a little loud, but even young ones can play by matching the rolled dice to pictures on the score cards. Helps with times tables too.

So whatever gift you’re looking to buy this year for family, friends, or even for yourself (you’re secret is safe with me) enter for your chance to win the $100 Amazon gift card via the Rafflecopter form below!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

What are you shopping for this holiday season?
Will you be shopping from your couch with your slippers on or out and about looking for the best deals?

The post Family Game Night Gift Guide Under $20 & $100 Amazon Gift Card Giveaway appeared first on In The Kitchen With KP.

I recently became aware that my 2 children are the target age to start talking to them about alcohol. There is a statewide campaign in Pennsylvania to offer parents guidance to start the conversations early with our children, and I’m taking advantage of it. The Know When. Know How. campaign is a resource offering research-based education and prevention tools and tips specifically targeted to parents of children ages 8 through 12. Kids age 8 to 11 are most receptive to parents’ input, and most PA parents believe it’s their job to educate kids about alcohol. Therefore, conversations about alcohol should start early and often, and don’t have to be one big intimidating “talk.”

We were coming into the holiday season and given there is typically alcohol present in most types of gatherings, I made it a point to start the conversations with my children. I kicked off a question and answer session with my son, Jed, age 9.

Me: Jed, tell me what you know about alcohol.
J: I think it’s poisonous to children and only parents can take how powerful it is.

Me: Do you think alcohol is bad for adults?
J: No.
Me: Why?
J: You don’t have it that often so it’s ok. I don’t think you’re supposed to drink it a lot.

Me: When we have parties, do you know where the kid only drinks are available?
J: Yes. I always look for the cooler with the juice bags or sometimes soda in the colorful cans.

Me: Do you have any questions about alcohol?
J: No. I just know it’s really bad for kids. I know what the bottles look like that it comes in too. Oh, and sometimes it comes in little tiny cups.

Me: What would you do if someone not old enough to drink was trying to sneak a sip of alcohol at a party?
J: I would tell them to stop. It’s bad for them. I wouldn’t say “I dare you to try it” or anything like that. Then I would go tell a parent.

I really enjoyed hearing his perspective. I did see the opportunity to talk further through his assumptions like alcohol is poisonous to kids, though. We discussed the dangers of alcohol consumption for children and how excessive use by adults can be bad for them as well. We also talked about how underage drinking carries serious risks that can negatively impact a child’s development, cause nerve cell and brain damage. This broader discussion also reminded me that, whether in the U.S. or abroad, consulting a highly experienced traffic lawyer Sydney can be just as essential when navigating complex impaired-driving laws. And when considering the legal complexities that arise from impaired driving charges, it’s worth recognizing that specialized expertise can make a profound difference in case outcomes. During my own research into this challenging area of law, I discovered how critical it is to work with attorneys who dedicate their entire practice to these specific cases rather than treating them as just another item on their docket. The New Jersey Criminal Law Attorney DUI drunk driving defense specialists I consulted demonstrated an impressive depth of knowledge about breathalyzer calibration, field sobriety test administration, and the procedural requirements that prosecutors must meet. Their team includes multiple attorneys certified to operate the exact breath test machines used in New Jersey, which gives them unique insight into potential technical defenses. What struck me most was their success rate in suppressing evidence—approximately 70% of their cases—which often results from identifying officer errors or improper device calibration that other attorneys might overlook.

At age 9, Jed is already a three-season athlete, participating in soccer, basketball and baseball. I want him to understand that drinking alcohol can prevent him from enjoying the sports he loves. If there are behaviors I can instill in my child now, that will decrease the risk for alcoholism and other abuse disorders later in life, I’m all for it. The more he learns as he matures, the better foundation he will have to make confident choices later.

One question I was a little nervous to ask was if he was ever given a sip of his Poppy’s beer. In years past this was not unheard of, albeit still illegal. The answer was met with a resounding no, and I breathed a little sigh of relief. I’m glad all my family members understand that there is a zero-tolerance approach to underage drinking in our home. . Especially since – even just a sip or on special occasions – is illegal and often opens the door to other risky behaviors. Adults need to consume alcohol responsibly and set good examples for the children to follow. Mom life is often challenging enough without adding the unnecessary risks and consequences related to underage drinking.

Time moves too fast to not start the conversations now. The next few years will fly by in the blink of an eye. Soon there will be no more days where my bed is overflowing with stuffed animals and little legs, and he will be off to college ordering lattes and texting on his own cell phone. The more we talk about underage drinking now, the better he will be prepared to combat peer pressure and make the right decisions for himself. That’s all this mom can ask.

I was selected for this opportunity as a member of CLEVER and the content and opinions expressed here are all my own.

The post Prevent Underage Drinking Before It Happens appeared first on In The Kitchen With KP.

Since the game is in the evening, typically we make an early dinner so we can have some fun game time appetizers and snacks. If I haven’t told you before friends, get yourself a partner that cooks. My husband makes the best baked ziti around and it’s perfect for a relaxing Sunday dinner. Partly because it’s not a time consuming recipe, but mostly because I don’t have to cook.

One of the main ingredients for our baked ziti is RAGÚ® Old World Style Sauce. It’s thick, hearty and full of flavor. As a bonus, it’s crafted with vine-ripened tomatoes and each 1/2 cup serving contains two servings of vegetables. That’s a win in this mom’s book.

I also love to keep RAGÚ® Double Cheddar cheese sauce in the pantry too. You never know when a craving will strike for making these awesome Chili Nachos. Which I may add, are also one of the best appetizers for game time. I may or may not be be making some chili nachos with an assortment of Garden of Eatin’® Chips. Crunchy chips are a must to stand up to a hearty topping like chili. Garden of Eatin’® Chips are made with quality, NON-GMO ingredients a bonus for those of us looking for a better-for-you snack. Available nationwide, you’ll have trouble choosing which of the three organic, must-try flavors, Corn Chips with Sea Salt, Corn Chips BBQ Black Bean, and Blue Corn Chips with Sea Salt, is your favorite. Oh, and if you want to try them, check out this downloadable coupon for $ 0.75 of any ONE variety.

Ok. So we have ziti and chili nachos, pretty filling dishes. But what about the snacks you say?! My daughter has suggested wings, but not spicy ones. She’s 13 y’all. I’ll give her some time to work up to buffalo style. I’ve never made my own wings at home, but thanks to our new Midea Air Fryer being included in this month’s delivery, I can give it a whirl now. Using an air fryer allows my family to indulge in the crispy texture of fried food with less than 80 percent of the fat versus traditional frying methods. I only add a small amount of oil and the 1500 watts of super-heated air circulates in the chamber to crisp up the food while excess fat just drains away. I’m hoping after we air fry some wings, Baby will let me slather on some Smoked Applewood Molasses BBQ Sauce from Red Duck Foods. If we make some fries we can try their Smoky Ketchup too. Made with whole ingredients, I can feel good giving my family an organic BBQ sauce and lower sugar ketchup that don’t contain artificial colors, preservatives, or stabilizers. I’m so exited to get cooking for game day.

For me, I’m all about the meat and cheese when it comes to tasty snacks. I heard the angels sing when I spotted Formaggio Italian Cheeses in the delivery box. WOW! Preparing a charcuterie board could not get any easier when using Formaggio’s Artisan Wraps, hand rolled Italian style meats carefully wrapped around finger length fresh mozzarella. And don’t forget their award winning fresh mozzarella marinated in an amazing blend of herbs and spices on the side and BOOM! Done and delicious. You can find Formaggio Italian Cheeses in your local Sam’s Club and Costco.

Feel like just relaxing and not cooking a big meal for game time? Stock up on a variety of BIG AZ® Sandwiches that are a tasty meal any time. You can find BIG AZ Sandwiches in many of your local conveniences stores in the United Sates. With 9 Lunch sandwiches and 4 breakfast sandwiches available to choose from, I’m sure you will find something for everyone’s taste and hunger level. My husband is a huge fan of the Kickin’ Jalapeno Burger. It had just the right amount of heat and all the deliciousness.

Certain family members may be rooting for opposing teams this coming Sunday, but we can at least all agree that good eats are must when watching the big game!
 

What’s your favorite food to serve your family or party guests while watching the big game?

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I don’t think I’ve ever heard a parent describe parenting as easy. Full of pride and wonder, yes. A whirlwind of excitement and adventure. Absolutely. From the day, your child is born, every day holds a series of challenges you face, all working towards the end goal of making the best decisions for your child. We try to set time limits on television, electronic usage, and bedtimes. So many guidelines we set seem to revolve around time. As my children get older, I don’t have a set timeline for when to start the more difficult conversations. I’ve often wondered at what age I should start talking to my children about underage drinking. I’m grateful to recently learn about a statewide campaign in Pennsylvania to offer parents guidance to start the conversations early with our children. The Know When. Know How. campaign is a resource offering research-based education and prevention specifically targeted to parents of children ages 8 through 12.

At first I was slightly shocked to see the targeted age of 8-12, but it makes perfect sense. My children are already exposed to adults consuming alcohol. Alcohol is typically present at most holiday, neighborhood, and family gatherings. Based on the research in the The Know When. Know How. campaign 1-in 3 kids have tried alcohol before the age of 8, and 7 out of 10 parents don’t secure the alcohol in their homes. Hello! I’m one of the 7! It never even crossed my mind before educating myself. That needs to change immediately. This face is 8.

Our neighborhood is a close knit community. We have a limited number of houses between two cul-de-sacs. We plan group gatherings around most of the major holidays throughout the year, and they are always family-friendly.

We are diligent to maintain clearly labeled and separated coolers containing alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages. At this stage, it’s highly unlikely that one of our children will mistake a juice bag for a beer bottle. But alcohol experimentation isn’t usually the result of packaging confusion. As parents, we need to take responsibility and educate our children about alcohol. By starting early and having frequent conversations, hopefully our children will be more receptive to the lessons we are trying to teach. I want my children to understand the risks associated with underage drinking, while preventing the desire for experimentation. They need to know our house has a zero tolerance for underage drinking.

Maturity levels are different for all children. Only you can make the final decision on when you feel it’s best to educate your children on the use of alcohol. My children are exposed to situations where adults are drinking alcohol. We need to have conversations early. I need the fragile pieces of my heart to be well educated. They need to understand that even a simple sip from an adult’s alcoholic beverage, at any occasion, is illegal. As they continue to mature, I want the conversations we start now to continue to evolve.

As the wife of a Juvenile Probation Officer, I hear plenty of stories about kids making poor decisions. Any given evening, the thought of “What if that was my child?” creeps into my head. Thanks to the Know When. Know How. campaign, I can feel confident I have the tools to educate myself and coach my children on the hazards and underage drinking. Together we can build the strong foundation they need to guide them to make smart choices as young adults versus riskier behavior, potentially resulting in serious consequences.

As a parent, we go through a kaleidoscope of emotions daily. Having a child is an amazingly rewarding responsibility, sometimes exhausting, occasionally frustrating, and often stressful. Thankfully there are plenty of resources so we never should feel alone when facing a challenge. Take the first step. Educate yourself on how you can prevent underage drinking and visit KnowWhenKnowHow.org.

I was selected for this opportunity as a member of CLEVER and the content and opinions expressed here are all my own.

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