Twitter

There is nothing like taking a fabulous drink and adding your own special touch. And nothing says “Hello Fall” like hot cocoa. Try spicing up your delicious treat with fresh ginger. Add in some cloves and cinnamon to make it taste more like a gingerbread cookie.

You can also try just the pinch of cinnamon for a delectable treat. Turn up the heat by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to your hot cocoa. Love the warmth but not the heat? Try adding peanut butter, or caramel, or maple syrup to your chocolaty goodness.

Twitter

If you haven’t already, October is a great month to switch out of your summer wardrobe. This goes for your bags and purses too. Extend the life of your bags by properly storing them. Engage your summer purses in a good wipe-down with a clean, dry cloth before you store them.

Although hanging your purse from a hook in your bedroom may seem like a good idea to clean and organize your space, it can actually be damaging. Hanging a purse can distort the shape of the handles and the bag itself. Instead store your purse in a soft, breathable dust bag or a neutral colored cotton pillowcase. Never use plastic or vinyl as moisture could get trapped inside. Cross the handles over each other to avoid wear on the bag and unclip and removable straps for long-term storage. Then, lay your purse on its side for storage.

Twitter

Did you know 42% of house fires start in the kitchen and 3 out of 5 home fire deaths resulted from faulty smoke alarms. Only 43% of homeowners have an escape plan and only 40% of homeowners test their smoke and CO alarms monthly.

Fire Prevention Month is the perfect time to talk with your whole family about fire safety – including testing alarms, changing the batteries, making sure there is a fire extinguisher on every floor as well as in the garage and kitchen, and practicing an escape plan.