Travel Better With These Tips

tabbyspantry

If you enjoy traveling, you probably have a few tricks up your sleeve for how to make it a better experience for everyone involved. Keep reading for some new ideas you may not have thought of before that will help make your travel experience that much more enjoyable.

Image Credit

 

Find a Convenient Place to Stay

Where you choose to stay matters more than you think. If your accommodations are too far from many of the planned events on your itinerary, you will end up spending far too much time traveling between the hotel and your destinations. The logistics may become difficult later in the day if you have chosen not to rent a car, thus requiring you to stay close to the hotel and miss out on the experiences that travel affords you.

 

It is always best to book a hotel that is either centrally located and within easy walking or driving distance or within a reasonable proximity to public transportation. This way, you can engage with your destination. To find a great hotel, look for one with all of the amenities you need and want. Learn more about availability at your destination to get exactly the right room.

 

Pack Well

When it comes time to pack your suitcase, take note that overpacking is a common problem for many people. Consider your destination when deciding on what to bring. This is especially pertinent in regard to your wardrobe. If the climate is warm or cold, select clothing accordingly. In addition, you should check the weather forecast to determine if there will be any unusual fluctuations in temperature during your visit. Add the destination city to the weather app on your smartphone for easy access to the local weather.

 

Watch this video for helpful tips on how to pack liquids for your next flight. Note the tip that recommends sharing liquid toiletry space with your partner. By sharing liquids and space with your children, as well, you will maximize even more options for efficient travel.

 

 

Keep the Kids Busy

Just because you have children does not mean you have to forgo travel. Make the whole process an adventure. Instead of expecting travel with kids to be an effort, make an effort to make it fun. 

 

Pack a small bag of fun items to bring out at specific intervals during the travels or when on an outing at your destination. Pay attention to when your kids begin to get antsy and change their mood with a small surprise. Make it something useful, such as a little flashlight, mini deck of cards, or handheld fan.

 

Alternatively, play games with your kids to keep them busy, entertained, and proactively occupied while on vacation. Regardless of their ages, simple games like I Spy, word games, and creating fictitious stories together will keep everyone engaged while offering up a few laughs.

Image Credit

 

Go ahead and book your next trip. With these useful tips at hand, you can be confident in traveling well. Find the perfect accommodations with all of the amenities you are looking for, and get your suitcases packed.

Indiana Jones and The Dial of Destiny Arrives on Digital 8/29

tabbyspantry

“A WILDLY ENTERTAINING FILM FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY”
–Kristy Puchko, Mashable

  OMG is anyone else as excited as I am for the Indiana Jones movie to come out.  I feel like I am going back in time from when i saw the first one.

History’s Greatest Hero Returns! Harrison Ford reprises his role as
the legendary archaeologist when Lucasfilm’s Indiana Jones and
The Dial of Destiny Arrives on Digital August 29

 

BURBANK, CA (August 14, 2023) – From Academy Award®–nominated writer-director James Mangold (Logan, Walk the Line) comes the final chapter in the saga of one of cinema’s greatest heroes. Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny sees Harrison Ford reprise his iconic role as the whip-smart archaeologist one last time for a “rip-roaring adventure” (Maureen Lenker, Entertainment Weekly) full of “exciting action, wonderful banter and fantastic twists and turns” (Germain Lussier, io9).

The film will be available from all major digital retailers including Prime Video, Apple TV, and Vudu on August 29, with never-before-seen bonus content including five chapters that chart the making of Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny. Join the cast and crew on an epic, globe-trotting adventure showcasing new characters, stunts, music, locations, production design, and visual effects.

Film Synopsis
Harrison Ford returns to the role of the legendary hero archaeologist for this highly anticipated final installment of the iconic franchise– a big, globe-trotting, rip-roaring cinematic adventure. Starring along with Ford are Phoebe Waller-Bridge (“Fleabag”), Antonio Banderas (Puss in Boots: The Last Wish), John Rhys-Davies (Raiders of the Lost Ark), Shaunette Renée Wilson (Black Panther), Thomas Kretschmann (Das Boot), Toby Jones (Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy), Boyd Holbrook (Logan), Olivier Richters (Black Widow), Mads Mikkelsen (Doctor Strange) and newcomer Ethann Isidore. Directed by James Mangold (Logan, Walk the Line) and written by Jez Butterworth & John-Henry Butterworth and David Koepp and James Mangold, based on characters created by George Lucas and Philip Kaufman, the film is produced by Kathleen Kennedy, Frank Marshall and Simon Emanuel, with Steven Spielberg and George Lucas serving as executive producers. John Williams, who has scored each Indy adventure since the original Raiders of the Lost Ark in 1981, has once again composed the score.

Bonus Features*
The Making of Indiana Jones and The Dial of Destiny

  • Chapter 1 – Prologue – Harrison Ford leaps back into action as Indiana Jones! Journey to 1944 as this featurette reveals the filmmakers, characters, stunts, locations, and incredible visual effects that make up the thrilling opening of Dial of Destiny!
  • Chapter 2 – New York – Blast off to adventure as James Mangold showcases the re-creation of 1969 Manhattan for the Moon Parade chase. This featurette spotlights Helena (Phoebe Waller-Bridge) as John Williams conducts his beautiful new theme for this compelling character.
  • Chapter 3 – Morocco – The man in the hat is back! Explore Morocco as this featurette breaks down the white-knuckle stunts of the medina tuk-tuk chase and hotel brawl. Meet Teddy (Ethann Isidore), Indy’s precocious new ally in the hunt for the dial!
  • Chapter 4 – Sicily – Meet Renaldo (Antonio Banderas) as he guides our heroes on a perilous underwater treasure hunt! Catch up with Harrison Ford and Phoebe Waller-Bridge on location in Sicily and explore the caverns, traps, and bugs surrounding Archimedes’ tomb!
  • Chapter 5 – Finale – This featurette breaks down the thrilling climax to the Indiana Jones series. Cast and filmmakers James Mangold, Kathleen Kennedy, Frank Marshall, John Williams, Steven Spielberg, and Harrison Ford bid farewell to one of the greatest heroes of all time.
*Bonus features vary by product and retailer

Cast
Harrison Ford as Indiana Jones
Phoebe Waller-Bridge as Helena Shaw
Antonio Banderas as Renaldo
John Rhys-Davies as Sallah
Shaunette Renée Wilson as Mason
Thomas Kretschmann as Colonel Weber
Toby Jones as Basil Shaw
Boyd Holbrook as Klaber
Olivier Richters as Hauke
Ethann Isidore as Teddy
Mads Mikkelsen as Dr. Voller

Boosting Your Home’s Value: It’s Easier Than You Think!

tabbyspantry

First Impressions: Curbing That Appeal

Hey there, fellow homeowner! Ready to spruce up your space? Whether you’re eyeing a future sale or want your home to dazzle a bit more, I’ve got some juicy tidbits for you. Let’s kick things off with curb appeal. You know, that first impression when someone drives by or pops over for a visit. 

 

A well-manicured lawn, maybe with a splash of colorful flowers or even a cheeky topiary, can seriously elevate your home’s exterior.  You can also get some fresh blooms from a flower delivery in dubai and put them in a display vase on a table just outside your main door. And don’t get me started on front doors – have you ever considered a bold teal or a vibrant sunset orange? They’re instant head-turners. Oh, and while you’re out there, take a peek at your walkway. Fixing any cracks or adding some decorative stones could be the classy touch you didn’t know you needed.

Via Pixabay

 

Kitchen Confidential: Where the Magic Happens

Now, let’s waltz into the kitchen. It’s not just for whipping up meals; it’s where memories are made, from dance-offs to heart-to-hearts. How about dressing up those countertops? Quartz, for instance, is like the Rolls-Royce of kitchen surfaces. And your cabinets? A simple paint job can breathe new life into them, or if you’re feeling adventurous, swapping them out can transform the space. And hey, while we’re at it, modern, energy-efficient appliances make your kitchen look sleek and are kind to your wallet in the long run.

 

Bathroom Bliss: Elevate Your Relaxation Zone

And the bathroom? Think of it as your mini-spa. A modern sink and vanity can make a world of difference. Have you ever showered under a rain showerhead? It’s like a daily tropical getaway. Plus, giving those tiles a refresh or a new grout job can make the space feel brand new.

 

The Fireplace Factor: Cozy Vibes Ahead

Now, who doesn’t adore the cozy vibes of a fireplace? If you don’t have one, a trip to a local fireplace store might inspire you. And if you already have one, give it a little TLC. Maybe even get creative with the décor – a mix of candles, photos, or twinkly lights can make it the room’s centerpiece.

 

Basement Bonanza: Unlocking Hidden Potential

Ah, the basement. It’s not just a storage dungeon. Imagine transforming it into a home cinema, gym, or secret hideout! And while you’re at it, some quality insulation can make the space feel as cozy as your living room.

 

Flooring Flair: From Tiptoeing to Tango

Floors, floors, floors! Whether you’re tiptoeing in the morning or dancing your heart out at night, they’ve seen it all. Classic hardwood is always a winner, but a plush new carpet or shiny tiles in the bathroom or kitchen can reinvent the space.

 

Tech Talk: Smartening Up Your Space

Lastly, in this digital age, why not make your home a bit smarter? Proper insulation ensures you’re comfy year-round. Throw in some bright lights and a security cam here and there, and you’re living in the future. Oh, and solar panels? They’re a smart move for long-term savings and a nod to our lovely planet.

Home Sweet (Upgraded) Home

To wrap it all up, giving your home a value boost isn’t about grand makeovers. It’s the quirks, the tweaks, the personal touches. So, go on, sprinkle some magic on that lovely abode of yours!

 

“The Hill” Debuts in Theaters August 25th Giveaway

tabbyspantry 10 Comments

This is a sponsored post on behalf of Review Wire Media for Briarcliff Entertainment.

Are you looking for a feel good movie this year?  Then this is the one you are going to want to see.

 

THEHILL_FP_004
(ctr.) Mason Gillett stars as Young Robert Hill, Jesse Berry as Young Rickey Hill and Tyrik Johnson as Young Jason in THE HILL, a Briarcliff Entertainment release.
Credit: Briarcliff Entertainment / ©2023 Briarcliff Entertainment

ABOUT

Growing up impoverished in small-town Texas, young Rickey Hill shows an extraordinary ability to hit a baseball, despite being burdened by leg braces from a degenerative spinal disease.  His concerned pastor father (DENNIS QUAID) discourages Rickey from playing baseball to protect him from injury, and to have him follow in his footsteps and become a preacher.  As a young man, Rickey (COLIN FORD) becomes a baseball phenomenon.  His desire to participate in a try-out for a legendary major league scout divides the family and threatens Rickey’s dream of playing professional baseball.

Based on a true story, THE HILL is directed by Jeff Celentano and also stars JOELLE CARTER, country music singer and songwriter RANDY HOUSER, Golden Globe nominee BONNIE BEDELIA, and SCOTT GLENN.

SOCIAL: #TheHillMovie
https://www.facebook.com/BriarcliffEnt/

GIVEAWAY
  • One winner will receive 4 Movie Tickets + a $10 PayPal  (RV $50). Open to U.S. residents of the 48 contiguous United States. Tabbys Pantry in not responsible for the prize .
  •   You know I love you all but please don’t make me search you down I will send 2 emails about the win you must live in the U.S if I don’t hear back I will have to choose another winner

4 Movie Tickets + a $10 PayPal

 

Babylon 5: The Road Home – All-New Clip Revealed

tabbyspantry

We got Babylon 5: The Road Home Free in exchange for an honest post all opinions are our own.

CLIP SYNOPSIS:

John Sheridan (voiced by Bruce Boxleitner), while unstuck in time, lands on Z’ha’dun and revisits a critical moment.

FILM SYNOPSIS:

Return to Babylon 5 as the epic interstellar saga continues with The Road Home. Travel across the galaxy with John Sheridan as he unexpectedly finds himself transported through multiple timelines and alternate realities in a quest to find his way back home. Along the way he reunites with some familiar faces, while discovering cosmic new revelations about the history, purpose, and meaning of the Universe.

SPECIAL FEATURES INCLUDE:

Babylon 5 Forever (New Featurette) – join the cast and filmmakers as they reveal the process behind creating the first state-of-the-art, animated adaption of Babylon 5.

Audio Commentary with creator/writer/executive producer J. Michael Straczynski, actor Bruce Boxleitner and supervising producer Rick Morales.

Babylon 5 celebrates its 30th anniversary this year and returning to voice their characters from the original series are Bruce Boxleitner as John Sheridan, Claudia Christian as Susan Ivanova, Peter Jurasik as Londo Mollari, Bill Mumy as Lennier, Tracy Scoggins as Elizabeth Lochley, and Patricia Tallman as Lyta Alexander.

The film also stars Paul Guyet (World of Warcraft) as Zathras and Jeffery Sinclair, Anthony Hansen (God of War) as Michael Garibaldi, Mara Junot (Green Lantern: Beware My Power) as Reporter and Computer Voice, Phil LaMarr (Futurama) as Dr. Stephen Franklin, Piotr Michael (Hogwart’s Legacy) as David Sheridan, Andrew Morgado (Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness) as G’Kar, and Rebecca Riedy (Magic: The Gathering Arena) as Delenn.

Babylon 5: The Road Home was written and Executive Produced by series creator J. Michael Straczynski. The film was directed by Matt Peters (Batman and Superman: Battle of the Super Sons), Supervising Producer is Rick Morales (Mortal Kombat Legends: Snow Blind) and Executive Producer is Sam Register.

Super Easy Ways to Healthy Food for the Kids

tabbyspantry

CC0 Licensed Image Courtesy of Pexels

Healthy food for the kids isn’t as hard as you might think. Even the fussiest eater can be tamed with a few easy tricks. Getting the kids involved in meal preparation makes them feel closer to the food. And you can save sugary foods as a once-in-a-while treat. Here are some more tips.

Swap Out their Snacks

Kids and adults alike love snacks. What would the world be without potato chips? Pretty darn boring, that’s what. Anyway, back to the subject. Yeah, how about slowly but surely swapping the kids’ unhealthy snacks for ones that are better for them? On the go snacks from Yumble offer a variety of amazing stuff that the kids will love. Of course, they will want the high-sugar stuff they are used to. But over time, you can begin to introduce healthier options they love.

Get them Involved in Cooking

Cooking shouldn’t feel like a chore, although it can when you have to juggle life, school, kids, and work. And this makes it all too easy to call a takeout or grab a supermarket pizza. But these are typically laden with excess fat and sugar. So how do you make meal prep fun? Get the kids involved, of course. Kids love preparing and cooking, and it teaches them valuable life skills. Further, they are much more likely to eat a healthy meal they have helped to make themselves.

Eat Healthy Food for the Kids Together

There are many benefits to sitting down and eating together as a family. First, it provides children with comfort knowing everything is OK and family is there. This can help with emotional and social development. But it also ensures children eat healthy meals, manage portion sizes, and develop healthy eating habits. While eating well-prepared vegetables and other nutritious food, you can explain to the children what the food is and how it will help them grow.

Keep Unhealthy Foods as a Treat

OK, so there’s nothing really wrong with unhealthy food per se. We all have our guilty pleasures. Ice cream, chips, and junk food like hot dogs are great examples. The problems begin when these become normalized, and the kids eat them multiple times per week. This won’t do them any good and will add to the growing childhood obesity crisis, which is at 17%. As such, these are better in small portions as a monthly treat or as a reward for doing something well.

Hide the Veggies in the Meal

Sometimes kids are just stubborn, and no matter how much you try, they will not eat those pesky vegetables. There are many reasons this can happen, and the main one is that some vegetables taste bitter to young and sensitive tongues. However, a super easy way to get vegetables into your kids is to simply hide them. How? Well, use a blender to chop up veggies like carrots so you can use them in a cooking sauce. The kids won’t even know they’re there.

Summary

You can swap out snacks to include more healthy food for the kids. But spending time together cooking and eating also helps them appreciate meals, and you can just hide veggies in food.

 

Can DIY Really Save You Dollars On Your Renovation?

tabbyspantry

Do you have big plans for your home? Then you’re going to need a big budget! As with everything else right now, costs for home renovations are rising, which means a lot of people are either putting off their plans or taking on a lot of credit to make them happen. Others are taking a DIY approach to their home renovations, but can it really save you money?

 

If you’re not afraid of a little hard work and shopping around, you could help cut back on your renovation costs. Take a look at some of the ways DIY can save you money, ready to make your home dreams a reality.

Image Credit: Unsplash under Creative Commons

Learn as you go along

A renovation can feel like an enormous challenge. But if you’re serious about saving money doing it, you’ll need to learn some new skills. You’ll be able to figure out some things easily, but others may need a little expert help. Check out some online DIY classes that will help teach you the basics and beyond to help you work through everything that needs to be done.

Shop around for your materials

Materials will be one of your most significant costs when renovating your home, but there are ways you can save money. You can try shopping around for some second-hand or unwanted materials as one way to save some money. Alternatively, you can get quotes online for steel building frame parts and other elements to help you find the best deals. With a detailed list of everything you need, you can get a better idea of prices so you can start to shop around for the best deal.

Make savings on your decor

While some DIY costs are unavoidable, you could find other ways to save money when renovating your home. Finding more affordable decor ideas will help you save money to keep your budget for the more expensive works. Why not upcycle some furniture and check out some sales to help you find some great buys for your new space? Search for some bargains to help you decorate your renovated spaces without breaking the bank.

Keep it simple

If our renovation costs spiral out of control, you may need to rethink your plans. Stripping things back and looking at simpler plans could help you save some money and make things less complicated for you. Focus on the additions that will add some value to your home – sometimes it’s the simplest of changes that can make the biggest difference to your home.

 

Managing home renovations can be tough, and if you’re concerned about your budget, you’re not alone. Many people take on renovations themselves, not only cutting costs but having fun along the way. Doing some of the DIY yourself can teach you several useful skills while helping you turn your property into your ideal home. Start making plans now, and who knows where your creativity will take you?

Want to Decorate an Older Home? Here are Some Top Tips

tabbyspantry

Older homes tend to come with stunning features, such as trim, decorative molding and architectural features. Sometimes all you need to do is add a lick of paint, so you can restore it to its former glory. Take the time to match the color to the existing walls and create a sense of flow and uniformity. You can also add a touch of gloss if you want to highlight a particular area. If you want some more decorative tips then take a look below.

 

Focus on Space

On average, older homes have way less square footage when compared to more modern homes. In the 1920s, homes were around 1,000 square feet, but now they are around 2,300 square feet. Smaller homes tend to have inadequate storage space and this means that they can quickly become cluttered. Fortunately, if you want to create harmony in your home, you can do this with ease if you simply focus on the space you have to work with. If you are dealing with an unusually large space or an awkwardly-shaped space then you can try and break the room up into zones. One way you can do this would be for you to opt for an area rug. You might also want to use a room divider to break up the space. This will make it easier to work with your space and choose decor that fits your theme.

Source: Pexels (CC0 License)

 

Remove Dated Decor 

 

If you have a popcorn ceiling then the first thing you will want to do is remove it. If you don’t remove it then you may find that you end up with a home that never looks as good as it could. If you want to transform your space then you can also add some paneling. This is especially good if you have uneven walls, or if you have bad plastering. Redoing the plaster can be a monumental task, but if you take your time you should find that you can get the result you are going for. In regards to the walls, it’s helpful to give them a good check-over to make sure that there are no signs of pests. Grease marks, holes in the wall and piles of dust are all major warning signs. If you want some help, then be sure to hire an exterminator. 

 

Don’t Eliminate Personality

 

It is so important that you don’t eliminate personality from your home. If you do then you may find that you end up stripping your home of what makes it unique. One way for you to do something about this would be for you to make sure that you accent the little crevices you have and that you keep wooden beams or anything else that might be present. These accents, if you work with them, can help your home look really modern and it also adds a personal stamp. If you have an old hardwood floor then don’t remove it, instead, see if you can sand it and buffer it to bring back the original finish.

 

Are You Afraid of the Dark? Ghost Island

tabbyspantry

ARE YOU AFRAID OF THE DARK? GHOST ISLAND


Available on DVD August 1, 2023

LOS ANGELES– June 27, 2023 – Follow a thrilling new story based on the ’90s classic Are You Afraid of the Dark? series in the all-new DVD Are You Afraid of the Dark? Ghost Island! Join Midnight Society members Kayla, Leo, Summer, and Ferris as they go on a summer getaway to a tropical island resort with some terrifying secrets. The Midnight Society bands together on this mysterious island as they discover the truth behind the disappearances taking place in the resort, and navigate mysteries all while trying to enjoy their summer vacation!

Are You Afraid of the Dark? Ghost Island will be available on DVD from Paramount Home Entertainment on August 1, 2023, for the suggested retail price of $10.99.

Are You Afraid of the Dark? Ghost Island episodes:

The Tale of Room 13
The Tale of the Teen Spirit
The Tale of the Looking Glass
The Tale of the Other Side
Are You Afraid of the Dark? Ghost Island

 

synopsis:
Four best friends and members of a Midnight Society get more than they bargained for when what they think is a fun summer vacation on a resort island turns into something sinister. They encounter genuine terror locked away in one of the rooms after checking into their hotel, and as the kids try to enjoy their vacation, they are pulled back into the mystery of the island’s ghosts, ultimately leading them to a terrifying and shocking revelation: many guests check in to room 13, but they never check out.

Are You Afraid of the Dark? Ghost Island fast facts:
Street Date: August 1, 2023
Catalog: 191329252420 (US)
Audio: Dolby Digital English 5.1
US Rating: Not Rated
US M.S.R.P.: $10.99

You can’t plan for an unexpected expense

tabbyspantry

 

Picture credit 

 

I hear it time and time again.  You should put 10% of your paycheck away for an unexpected expense.  I find that a lot of the people who say this make a lot more money than a lot of us do.  They don’t understand we need that 10% to pay our everyday bills. So, when an unexpected expense comes up it can be a disaster for us.

 

The next argument is then why don’t you use a credit card.  Once again, a lot of people don’t have a credit card there are many reasons why, but my number one reason why is. I can not rack up a credit card payment I know ill never be able to pay off.  There are a few options when an unexpected expense comes up. Not all these options will fit for everyone, but at least it’s a place to get started if you have something come up that has to be taken care of.

 

Family and Friends

This is probably the least desirable option for most of us.  No one wants to ask family or friends to barrow money and some don’t’ have any one they can ask. But it had to be added.  If you do have the option and they can help you just make sure to pay this loan back quickly you do not want to lose a friend over an emergency expense.

 

Short Term Loan

A Short term is another way to go this is a loan you can get if something unexpected comes up.  I like that this option does not have me asking family and friends and you can normally get it  pretty quick to take care of any emergency you may have.  If my car breaks down it is something I need fixed right away or I will not be able to go to work I can apply online and have an answer quick.

Selling Items

At times you will have no choice but to grab a few things and sell them off.  Now like I said this is not always an option for everyone, but if you do have some extra items sitting around you could do without then this is a good option for you.

Doing Side Jobs

If you have a particular hobby or are great at a craft this could be a great way to have money coming in all the time.  If you are like me and not really an art person finding side hustle can be harder, but they are out there.  There are always small jobs also posted on our community pages with people who need help with yard work and cleaning these can also be a great way to being in a little extra money.

 

No matter what option you choose I truly hope it works out the best for you.