Happy National Best Friends Day 2022!

In America, we love our national holidays! And what better way to celebrate than by spending time with our best friends? National Best Friends Day is a special day set aside to celebrate the relationships we have with the people who mean the most to us. This year, National Best Friends Day falls on June 8th. So mark your calendars and make sure to spend some quality time with your special people!

Ways to Celebrate Friendship

There are so many great ways to spend National Best Friends Day with your favorite person! Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Have a picnic in your backyard or at a nearby park

• Take a hike or walk together and enjoy the outdoors

• Visit a nearby town or city that you haven’t explored before

• Check out a new restaurant or café and treat yourselves to a delicious meal

• Attend a concert, play, or other performance together

• Have a movie marathon featuring all of your favorite films

What are your plans for National Best Friends Day? Let us know in the comments below! Honor friendship with one of our subscription boxes or tumblers! The gift that keeps on giving! Happy National Best Friends Day 2022!

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Wealth Building Tips That Will Save Your Life and Wallet!

Money is one of the biggest sources of stress in people's lives. It can be hard to save money, and even harder to build wealth. However, it is not impossible. In this blog post, we will discuss some ways to save money and build wealth!

Automate Your Savings

Start saving money! It is the first step to wealth building. You need to have a plan and be disciplined in your spending. Figure out what your savings goals are and how much you need to save each month to reach them. Automate your savings. Direct deposit a certain amount of money from each check before you see it so that you don't have to think about it. Once you have a plan, stick to it! Keep this for your emergency fund!

High Yield Savings Account

Open separate savings account for long-term savings. Investing in a high yield savings account is a great way to grow your money while taking less risk than gambling or stock market speculation. A high yield savings account will give you a higher interest rate on your deposited funds, which means more money in your pocket. Look for an account with no fees and a good interest rate. Shop around and compare rates to find the best deal for you.

Invest!

Investing is another key element of wealth building. Investing allows you to grow your money while taking less risk than gambling or stock market speculation. There are many different ways to invest, so figure out what works best for you and your goals. A financial advisor can help you get started if you're not sure where to begin.

Keep Credit Card Debt Minimal

Another great way to save money and build wealth is by keeping your credit charges low. Credit cards can be a great tool if used correctly, but they can also be a financial burden if not managed properly. Keep your credit card balances low to avoid interest charges. Make sure you pay your bill in full each month to avoid late fees. If you use credit wisely, it can be a helpful tool in Wealth Building. You can usually get a free credit report annually from your bank so you can learn where you stand!

Finally, remember that Wealth Building takes time! Rome wasn't built in a day, and neither is a solid financial future. Stay disciplined, budget, focus on your goals and be patient. Wealth building is a marathon, not a sprint. If you stick to these wealth-building tips, you will save money and improve your financial situation. Wealth building takes time and effort, but it is worth it! Follow these tips and you will be on your way to a more secure future.

10 Tax Prep Tips to Make the Process Easy and Stress-Free

Tax season can be a stressful time for many people. But it doesn't have to be! With the right tips and tools, you can make the process easy and stress-free. In this blog post, we will provide you with a tax prep checklist to help make tax season a breeze.

- Start early: The earlier you start preparing for tax season, the easier it will be. Begin by gathering all of your relevant documents and information. This will help you avoid last minute stress and scrambling to get everything together.

- Use a checklist: A tax prep checklist can be helpful in ensuring that you don't forget any important steps. It can also help you stay organized and on track throughout the process.

- Gather your documents: In order to file your taxes, you will need to have a number of documents handy. These include your W-­‐two form, income statements (such as bank statements and investment account information), receipts for deductible expenses, and proof of any tax credits or deductions you are claiming.

- Use a tax preparer: If you don't feel comfortable preparing your own taxes, consider using a tax preparer. Tax preparers can help make the process easier and less stressful. They can also offer advice on how to reduce your tax bill and avoid common mistakes.

- Check for errors: Once your return has been prepared, be sure to check it over for errors. This includes reviewing all of your information and ensuring that it is correct and accurate. If you find any errors, be sure to corrected them before filing your return.

- File electronically: Filing your taxes electronically can save you time and money. It's also more secure than mailing in paper returns.

- File on time: Tax returns must be filed by April 15th each year. If you miss the deadline, you will incur penalties and interest charges.

- Get organized: Organization is key when it comes to tax season. Keep all of your documents and information in one place so that you can easily access it when needed. This will help minimize stress and make the process simpler overall.

By following these tips, you can make tax season a breeze! So get started today and enjoy a less stressful tax season this year.

**Full Disclosure: I am not a tax preparer or financial consultant of any kind.

Countdown to Mardi Gras 2022

It's that time of year again! It's almost Mardi Gras 2022! Learn where you can see the greatest parades, what food to eat before or after the parade, and how to make your vacation go smoothly here!

History of Mardi Gras

Mardi Gras has been around for centuries. It began in Europe as a way to commemorate the conclusion of Lenten season. The first Mardi Gras parade took place in New Orleans in 1837, and it has grown in popularity every year since!

Mardi Gras Parades

If you're in New Orleans for Mardi Gras, the parades are a must-see! There are dozens of them throughout the city, and they can last all day long. Some of the most popular ones include the Krewe of Rex Parade, the Endymion Extravaganza, and the Bacchus Parade.

Best Food Spots in New Orleans

There are so many delicious food options in New Orleans, but some of the most popular ones for Mardi Gras are king cake, beignets, and gumbo. Whether you're eating before or after the parade, you won't be disappointed!

If you're looking for some great food options in New Orleans, check out these spots!

- Cafe Du Monde: This spot is famous for its beignets and cafe au lait. It's a must-try if you're in the city during Mardi Gras.

- The French Market: This market has everything from Creole food to Cajun food. It's a great place to try some of the local cuisine.

- Cochon: This restaurant is known for its Southern comfort food, and it's definitely a must-eat if you're in town for Mardi Gras.

Historic French Quarter

The French Quarter is one of the most popular tourist destinations in New Orleans, and it's easy to see why. This historic neighborhood is home to some of the best restaurants, bars, and shops in the city. You can also catch a parade or two here!

If you're looking for a place to stay in New Orleans, the French Quarter is a great choice. There are plenty of hotels and Airbnb rentals available, and you'll be close to all the action! Be sure to check out these spots while you're there:

- Pat O'Brien's: This bar is famous for its hurricane cocktails, and it's a great place to relax and enjoy a drink.

- The Carousel Bar: This bar is shaped like a carousel, and it's one of the most unique places in the French Quarter. Be sure to check it out!

- Cafe Du Monde: This cafe is known for its beignets (fried doughnuts), and it's a must-visit for anyone who's visiting New Orleans.

- The French Market: This market has everything from Creole food to Cajun food. It's a great place to try some of the local cuisine.

- Cochon: This restaurant is known for its Southern comfort food, and it's definitely a must-eat if you're in town for Mardi Gras.

- Bourbon Street: This street is famous for its bars and nightclubs. If you're looking to party, this is the place to be!

Best Places to Stay in New Orleans for Mardi Gras

Louisiana is home to some of the best hotels and beautiful accommodations in the country, and they tend to fill up fast during this time of year. Here are some of our favorite places to stay:

The Roosevelt New Orleans, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel has been around for about 125 years. It's located in the heart of the French Quarter, and it offers luxurious accommodations and amenities.

The Fairmont New Orleans is another great option for those looking to stay in the French Quarter. It's a historic hotel that features beautiful architecture and stunning views of the city.

If you're looking for something a little more affordable, we recommend checking out the Wyndham New Orleans Garden District. This hotel is located in a charming neighborhood, and it offers comfortable accommodations and great service.

The Westin New Orleans Canal Place boasts one of the best New Orleans hotels. This AAA Four Diamond hotel is located in the heart of the Central Business District and overlooks the French Quarter. It's perfect for business travelers or those looking for a luxurious getaway!

The Sheraton French Quarter is right on Bourbon Street. If you're looking to be in the heart of the action, this is a perfect location!

These are just a few examples – there are plenty of other great hotels throughout Louisiana that will make your trip perfect. If you're looking for a more affordable option, Airbnb is always a great choice. There are plenty of options in all parts of the city, so be sure to check it out! Be sure to do your research and find the right one for you!

Planning Your Trip

If you're planning on coming to New Orleans for Mardi Gras, now is the time to start planning! Hotels and flights tend to fill up quickly, so it's best to book as soon as possible. We recommend checking out websites like Visit New Orleans or Louisiana Travel for more information on what to do and see during your stay.

We hope you have a fantastic time during Mardi Gras 2022! We can't wait to see you in New Orleans. Laissez les bons temps rouler! (Let the good times roll!)

Mardi Gras is an amazing event that everyone should experience at least once in their life. If you're looking to have a good time, come to Louisiana – we know how to party! Be sure to book your trip early and enjoy the countdown to Mardi Gras 2022!

Historic Lower Garden District

If you're looking for a more laid-back experience in New Orleans, head to the Lower Garden District. This historic neighborhood is home to some of the oldest buildings in the city, and it's a great place to wander around and explore. You'll also find plenty of bars and restaurants here, so you won't have to go far for a good time.

Some of our favorite spots in the Lower Garden District are:

- Commander's Palace: This restaurant is famous for its Creole cuisine, and it's been serving up dishes like gumbo and jambalaya since 1892. It's definitely worth a visit!

- The Sazerac Bar: This bar is named after the classic New Orleans cocktail, and it's the perfect place to relax and enjoy a drink.

- Cochon: This restaurant is known for its Southern comfort food, and it's definitely a must-eat if you're in town for Mardi Gras.

- The Pierre Maspero Museum: This museum is dedicated to the history of New Orleans, and it offers an interesting perspective on the city's past.

The Lower Garden District is a great place to spend some time away from the hustle and bustle of Bourbon Street. Be sure to check it out during your stay in New Orleans!

Mardi Gras Your Way

Mardi Gras is one of the most famous carnivals in the world. It's celebrated all over the globe, but nothing compares to the experience of celebrating in New Orleans. The city comes alive with music, food, and fun, and you're sure to have a blast!

If you can't make it to Mardi Gras 2022, don't worry – there are plenty of other ways to celebrate. Here are some of our favorite ways to enjoy Mardi Gras:

- Go to a Jazz Bar: New Orleans is home to some of the best jazz musicians in the world. Be sure to check out some live music while you're in town!

- Sample Cajun cuisine: Louisiana is famous for its Cajun cuisine, so be sure to try some of the local dishes while you're here. You won't regret it!

- Attend a parade: Mardi Gras is all about the parades, and there are plenty of them to choose from. Be sure to check out our guide to find the one that's right for you!

No matter how you choose to celebrate, Mardi Gras is sure to be a blast. We can't wait to see you in New Orleans! Laissez les bons temps rouler! (Let the good times roll!)

Ground Hog Day: The History Behind the Holiday

Groundhog Day is a day to commemorate the groundhog, more commonly known as "Punxsutawney Phil." Every year on February 2nd, Groundhog Day is observed. The 128th anniversary of Groundhog Day will be celebrated February 02, 2022.

History of Ground Hog Day

Groundhog Day is a centuries-old holiday in the United States that was originated by German settlers in Pennsylvania. The first Groundhog Day celebration was held in 1887, but the practice of monitoring the groundhog goes back much further. The first people to observe how the groundhogs behaved and whether or not they saw their shadows were German settlers in Pennsylvania. They would watch to see if the groundhogs saw their shadows or not, then use that information to predict when spring would arrive or if there would be four more weeks of winter.

Groundhog Day has grown in popularity worldwide since then. People celebrate it by watching movies about it, eating dishes that are connected to it, or simply keeping an eye on the groundhog activities.

Groundhog Day Celebrations

Ground Hog Day is observed in a variety of ways by many people. Some people watch the film Groundhog Day to commemorate the day, while others celebrate with ground hog dishes, and still more people simply observe what happens on Groundhog Day. Have some fun however you choose to celebrate it, and don't forget to learn something about the groundhog's history as well. After all, that is what Ground Hog Day is all about!

Facts about Punxsutawney Phil

-Punxsutawney Phil is the most famous groundhog in the world.

-Phil has made predictions about the weather for over 125 years.

-Ground hogs only live for around six or seven years, so Phil is quite old!

-There are many other ground hogs that make similar predictions throughout North America, but Phil is the most famous.

-Ground hogs are able to predict weather because they hibernate and during that time, they monitor how much sunlight each day.

-There is a lot of debate about whether or not groundhogs actually help predict the weather, but it's still a fun tradition to celebrate nonetheless!

No matter how you choose to celebrate, be sure to have some fun! And don't forget to learn a little bit about the ground hog's history too. After all, that is what Ground Hog Day is all about!

BONUS: The 1993 movie "Groundhog Day" starring Bill Murray and Andie MacDowell. What could be more perfect for this holiday than a classic movie? Watch it now on Netflix or Amazon Prime.

Korean American Day: Celebrating Korean-American Culture

Korean American Day is a day to commemorate the anniversary of Korea's liberation from Japan, and to celebrate history of Korean-American culture. The first observance of this day was in 1966 by 25 members of the Los Angeles Jaycees. They wanted to show their appreciation for all that Koreans had done for America since they immigrated here during WWII to help with the war effort against Japan.

How Korean-American Day is Celebrated Today

Today, it is celebrated every year on August 15th and there are events all over America celebrating Korean culture. Some of the activities that take place include Korean food festivals, dance performances, and martial arts demonstrations. It's a great way to learn more about the history and traditions of Korea and to celebrate the many contributions that Korean Americans have made to American society.

Famous Korean-Americans

There are many notable Korean-Americans who have made significant contributions to American society. Some of them include:

• Dr. David Kim, a cardiothoracic surgeon and the first Asian American member at prestigious Institute of Medicine National Academies.

• Steve Yeun, an actor best known for his role as Glenn Rhee on Walking Dead Show which he won Golden Globe Award for Best Supporting Actor in a Motion Picture Drama TV Series or MiniSeries 2015; also played leading roles in movies like "Inside Man" (2006), “Knight of Cups” (2015), “Okja” (2017).

• Michelle Kwan is a five-time World Champion, two-time Olympic medalist figure skater. She was voted one of the "30 most powerful Asian Americans in sports"; Named Associated Press Athlete Of The Year for 1997; voted an Emmy Award for Outstanding Sports Personality, Individual.

• Bobby Lee is an actor and stand up comedian, appearing in movies like Harold & Kumar Go to White Castle, Pineapple Express, The Dictator and TV shows like Silicon Valley. He also has his own show on Showtime called "I'm Dying Up Here."

• David Chang is the founder of Momofuku restaurant group; also producer and star of Netflix show Ugly Delicious.

• Steve Park is a Korean-American former NASCAR driver who has won three races in his career, winning Rookie of the Year honors at the 1996 running of the "Bud Shootout" at Daytona International Speedway. He's also acted in movies like Crossover (2006), The Longshots (2008), and Crash and Burn (2014).

• Grace Park, an actress best known for playing the characters of Bozer, Sharon Valerii, Number Seven on Battlestar Galactica; also appearing in movies like Paycheck (2003) and X Men Origins: Wolverine (2009); Hawaii Five O TV Series (2010-2014).

• Sung Kang is an actor known for his roles in the Fast and Furious franchise. He has also appeared in movies like "The Motel" (2005), "Fast Five" (2011), ""(2013).

Korean Cultural Influences in America

The Korean American culture is a mix of traditional and modern. One example would be their love for K-pop, which has become very popular in America along with other aspects from South Korea like Kimchi (a type cultural dish), or Taekwondo.

K-Pop

There are a few k-pop bands that have become popular in America. Some of them include BTS, EXO, and BlackPink. They all have their own unique sound and style that has won over fans from all over the world.

Kimchi

One of the most popular Korean dishes is Kimchi, a traditional dish made from fermented vegetables and spices. This dish is enjoyed all over Korea and beyond with different variations depending on where it's prepared. The process used to make kimchi can date back hundreds of years which makes this dish even more exciting for fans!

Taekwondo

Taekwondo was developed back when this country was still under rule by dynasties; now it's one among many martial arts practiced here because they're so skilled at creating discipline while teaching users how to protect themselves or others through submissions and takedowns. Korean barbeque, a type of cooking that is quickly gaining popularity all over America, Is also a great example of how Korean culture has been influencing American culture.

Recipes for Korean-American Day

One of the most important parts of any celebration, is the food! There are a lot of recipes that people can try out to celebrate Korean American Day. Traditional Korean foods like kimchi and bulgogi are always good, but don't let that stop you from experimenting with some more popular American dishes as well.

Some examples of different foods that are on the menu for National Taco Day include chicken tacos or quesadillas- great because they use tortilla wraps similar to those found in many Korean dishes! Another fun way to get creative would be by making a bibimbap taco bowl or buddha bowl- delicious and festive meals perfect for enjoying during all your celebrations on August 15th.

Celebrating Korean American Day is important because it gives the community a chance to come together and celebrate their culture. The day commemorates Korea's liberation from Japan, along with celebrating the many contributions that Koreans have made to America since immigrating here during WWII. It also highlights some of the traditions that are unique to Korea. This is a great way for people who may not know much about this part of our history or culture, to learn more!

New Year's Resolutions for a Happier, Healthier You

The New Year is a time for fresh starts and new beginnings. It's the perfect opportunity to take stock of your life, set some goals, and make plans to achieve them. The best way to stay motivated is by setting small measurable resolutions that you can track as you go along. In this blog post we'll cover New Year's resolutions for 2022

Make a Bucket List

Making a bucket list will help you to prioritize your goals and dreams. We all have some things that we'd like to accomplish, but it can be difficult prioritizing day-to-day life over our personal goals. Making a bucket list is the perfect way for you to get started on achieving those long term resolutions!

Invest in Yourself

Investing in yourself can mean a lot of things. Investing in self care, your career and education, or even your money! Either way, making an investment in your future self is one of the best things you can do for your mental and physical health.

• Invest in self-care products. Taking care of your skin, hair, and nails is a great way to feel good about yourself. Make sure to choose products that are good for you and your skin type.

• Invest your money! New investment trends such as NFTS, Bitcoin, and entrepreneurial endeavors are great but building up an old fashioned savings account can also make an immediate impact into your mental well being. Save money fast by cutting out subscriptions you do not use. The Truebill app! It allows you to sync all of your bank accounts into one central place and will even help cancel subscriptions! Cut down on Ubereats. If you really want to feel bad, print out your last 3 monthly bank statements and highlight each UberEats deduction. Try cooking from home and meal prepping. (See next section!)

Eat Better

When you eat better, it's not about depriving yourself; in fact the opposite is true! Eating more whole food will make your body feel so much better, and give you more energy than if there were processed snacks on hand. And when we talk nourishment - think of all those essential nutrients like antioxidants and vitamins that keep us healthy from within outwards appearance too?!

The most crucial thing is not what kind or quantity, but rather how well-balanced our diets are: getting just enough protein with each meal (and snack), along with carbs and fat sources such as leafy greens...not forgetting any other groups.Start by making small changes in your diet:

• Focus on adding more fruits and vegetables to your meals.

• Cut back on processed foods and sugary drinks.

• Replace white bread with whole grain bread.

• Drink more water throughout the day.

Once you have been able to make these changes for a few months and you see success, it's likely you will feel less stress, slim down and start the year off on the right foot!

Exercise More Often

Do you find it sound boring? We promise it's not! Exercising more often doesn't have to be all jogging on the treadmill; there are so many different ways of exercising that fit everyone's lifestyle.

• Set fitness goals to be active for 30 minutes a day: This doesn't have to mean going to the gym. You can take a walk, go for fun bike rides with people you know, or play sports on your day off!

• Create an exercise routine. This could mean waking up half hour earlier to work out before work every morning, making time after dinner to take the dog for a walk around the block, etc. Whatever works best with your schedule is what you should go for.

• Make an effort to be more active at work. This could mean taking the stairs instead of the elevator or walking around your office during lunch breaks.

The important thing is to find something you enjoy doing so that you'll be more likely to stick with it in the long run.

Sleep More

Getting enough sleep is crucial for your health and well-being. Most adults need around eight hours of sleep per night, but many of us don't get nearly that much. Try your best to turn off screens at least an hour before bedtime, and make it a point to go to sleep earlier.

Connect with Others

One of the best things you can do for your happiness and health is to connect with others. socialize with friends and loved ones, join a club or group, or volunteer your time for a good cause. Spending time with others will make you feel connected and supported, which is essential for a happy and healthy life.

Let January be the month for setting resolutions....and KEEPING THEM! By following these tips, you can set yourself up for a happy and healthy New Year! Try incorporating one or two resolutions at a time and don't be afraid to challenge yourself. Sticking to your goals is easier when you have support from friends and family, so make sure to let them know about your resolutions and ask for their help!

How You Can Take Part In Keeping Our Oceans Clean. World Oceans Day 2019

Today is World Oceans Day. Why not celebrate by educating yourself on how you can make a difference in the world? Every effort helps. You can start by making a simple transition to eliminate single-use plastics in your daily routine. Think of how many plastic straws you’ve used in your lifetime. How many pieces of plastic silverware have you used? These are things we take for granted, myself included. We have evolved into a world of speed and simplicity. Hence all the single-use items we now have in our lives today.

Mass production of plastics began in the 1950’s, and not until recently was there any survey or tally as to what those numbers look like. The scientists involved were horrified by the numbers they found. Click here to read an article from National Geographic titled, “Planet or Plastics? A whopping 91% of Plastics isn’t recycled”. There are plenty of people who still don’t recycle, and for those of us who do, we assume we are doing the good thing and everything we throw into those bins is being recycled. No harm, no foul right? From what I’ve been reading, a large majority of those recyclable items are NOT in fact being recycled. A massive quantity is ending up in landfills and the ocean.

I could go on and on regarding this topic, but I’ll spare you. What I can suggest are a few items to try. The first being a stainless steel straw. If you follow Frugal Fashionista then you have probably heard about the Mermaid Straws. They are amazing! I have replaced my single-use straws with ONE Mermaid Straw. How simple is that? If you’re interested in giving one a try click here. They make a wonderful gift as well. I chose to partner with Mermaid Straws because a portion of the proceeds goes towards funding an ocean clean-up project every month. So not only are you eliminating a single use item from your life, but you’re helping to fund an ocean clean-up at the same time.

Today I ordered these reusable sandwich bags. I can’t wait to give them a try. I’m not sure about you, but I go thru disposable sandwich baggies very frequently. If these work well, this will be a simple but HUGE change for the amount of waste our household produces. I’ll update you guys on their arrival and provide you with a review.

I close in challenging you to own up and take part in saving our oceans. Sit for just a few minutes and brainstorm on how you can eliminate single-use plastics in your life.