Family Camping Activities

Warm spring and summer nights are the perfect time to get away from the chaos of hectic daily life and take a family camping trip. Whether you're sitting around a cozy campfire in the woods or setting up a small tent in your backyard for a "glamping" staycation, here are some fun ideas to keep the whole family entertained.

Play Games
Outdoor games can be fun for the whole family. Toss a glow-in-the-dark Frisbee, or set up an obstacle course with hula hoops, jump ropes or whatever you have lying around. You can also purchase life-sized versions of your favorite games, like Yahtzee or Jenga. Once the sun starts to set, break out the flashlights for flashlight tag, or gather around the campfire for a game of charades. Be sure to have hot dogs, buns and s'mores ingredients handy for a tasty meal, and prepare some spooky ghost stories for your group.

Embrace Nature
To really experience the great outdoors, use your surroundings as a backdrop for different activities. Some families might prefer a leisurely stroll to view the scenery and enjoy conversation. Others may choose a longer, more intensive hike. Be sure to keep the weather and your family's skill levels in mind when deciding on activities. You may want to create your own scavenger hunt lists based on local trees, plants and landmarks. These items can also be used to make bingo cards. Substitute sleeping bags for burlap sacks and have a good old-fashioned potato sack race. And when the sun finally sets, be sure to fit in some stargazing.

Keep Rooms Cool When Thermometers Rise

Summer is around the corner, bringing sunny days and warmer weather. As the temperatures climb, going for a swim, wearing cotton clothing or enjoying fruity ice pops can help cool our bodies. But what about cooling our homes? Help lower your energy costs with these simple tips.

• Block heat and sun with window blinds, or consider blackout curtains.
• Place bowls of icy water in front of small fans on desks, tables or bedside stands.
• Set ceiling fans to spin counterclockwise to create cool, downward breezes.
• Turn off lights and unplug electronics.
• If your HOA allows, hang wet clothing on a line outside instead of using the dryer.
• Fire up the grill instead of using the oven.

Benefits of Different Music Genres

From the earliest primitive musical instruments to streaming our favorite songs on-demand, music has played an important role in our lives for thousands of years. Music helps our bodies feel and act in a certain way, whether we listen for fun, relaxation or exercise. Consider how specific genres can help you become the best, healthiest "you" possible.

Listening to jazz and classical music can induce various brain waves that help you relax, sleep, manage pain, and even boost your creativity. Scientific American reports that upbeat songs increase your brain's theta waves, which are associated with creativity and intuition, while soft, slow tunes are best for producing delta waves for a deeper sleep.

Hip-hop, rock and pop are top picks for exercise. Studies show that when you run or move to the tempo of the music, you use less energy and need less oxygen because your body synchronizes with the beat to maintain a steady pace. The music can also help you push yourself by encouraging a longer workout.

Baked Vegetarian Zucchini Boats

Ingredients
2 zucchinis
½ tsp. black pepper
1 tsp. salt
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, chopped
½ cup tomato sauce
½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese, divided
1 Tbsp. Italian seasoning
2 Tbsp. olive oil
2 Tbsp. fresh dill

Directions
Preheat oven to 350^° F. Lightly coat baking pan with nonstick spray. Wash zucchinis and slice into halves lengthwise. Scoop out flesh to make zucchini boats. Place flesh in a mixing bowl and add black pepper, salt, onions, garlic, tomato sauce, ¼ cup Parmesan, and Italian seasoning. Thoroughly mix filling. Place zucchini boats on prepared pan and stuff with filling. Sprinkle reserved Parmesan on top and drizzle with olive oil. Bake for 20-25 minutes until zucchinis are soft. Garnish with fresh dill on top.

Serves 4