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Wellington Rotary Club Aims at World Peace

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Wellington Rotary Club Aims at World Peace

Each year in September the Rotary Club of Wellington holds its annual Peace Ceremony aimed at promoting Multicultural Understanding and Conflict Resolution as a means to World Peace.

This year the ceremony will be held on Sunday, September 22nd at 3pm at the Rotary Peace Park on Royal Fern Drive next to the main Wellington public library.

The ceremony is the culmination of work that started in January with competitions within all the local schools. Elementary students were encouraged to submit posters that depict multi-cultural understanding and conflict resolution. This is not intended as an anti-war exercise.

Over 350 posters were submitted and judged. A winner from each school was chosen and will receive a check for $75 each and a certificate at the ceremony.

Middle school students enter poems on the same topics. Around 100 poems were received and a winner from each school will each receive a check for $100.

High school students submitted essays on a chosen theme. This year the words of Benjamin Franklin were used. “There is no such thing as a good war and no such thing as a bad peace” 

A winner from each school will receive $125.

All the winner’s class room teachers will also receive a check for $75 for use in their class rooms.

A single student is also chosen as the person who is deemed to have contributed the most in achieving the goals of the Wellington Rotary Peace Initiative. 

Each year a High School student is awarded the SMART award, Student Mediation Award for Resolutions Today.  A student who helps with bring their classmates together receives the award.

The annual Wellington Rotary Peace Prize will go this year to Diana Stanley for her years of Service as CEO of The Lord’s Place and their work helping the homeless and less fortunate in Palm Beach County.

The Peace Ceremony commences with the PBSO Drill team providing an honor guard and playing “taps” as our flags are raised by The WHS Interact Members. 

The words on our Peace Poles “May Peace Prevail on Earth” will be read in eight different languages by local residents.

After speeches by local dignitaries, including Mayor Michael Napoleone reading the Peace Declaration, and the presentation of prizes, the ceremony will end with Dr. Wes Boughner’s release of Peace Doves.  

Dr. Wes Boughner, the Father of the Rotary Club of Wellington Peace Initiative, developed the annual World Peace Ceremony beginning in 2006.  Most of the 60 Rotary Members of the Wellington Rotary Club have volunteered in some way to help put this program on for the Wellington Community.   The Rotary Club feels “The Peace Initiative is aimed at reaching out to all within the Wellington community and to bringing awareness of the continuing need for multi-cultural understanding and conflict resolution as a way forward to achieving World Peace. It is especially important that we start this with our students and young people”

The whole community is welcome to attend the ceremony which lasts for around one hour.

Further information is available from Don Gross of the Rotary Club of Wellington, wellrotary1@gmail.com

“Service Above Self”

Truelove of Wellington High School’s Theater Department

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Truelove of Wellington High School’s Theater Department

By Melanie Kafka

The lazy days of summer have passed us by and school is back in session.  With that brings new opportunities to support local student theater in an auditorium, lunch room, or gymnasium near you.  For this first month of the school year, I’d like to highlight the Theatre Teacher and Director at Wellington High School, Mrs. Cassandra Truelove.  On the first day of school this year, I had the pleasure of spending some time on campus with her talking about her role at WHS, a little about her background, and some of the great things in store this year.

This is Mrs. Truelove’s second year teaching at WHS, and if you missed her productions last year, they were incredible!  Each year, the extraordinarily talented students in the Fine Arts Choice Program Academy along with other student cast members put on a theatrical piece in the Fall and musical production in the Spring.  This Fall, Mrs. Truelove will direct the students in a performance of Radium Girls on stage at the WHS Auditorium from November 7th-9th.

As students pass through the doorway to Mrs. Truelove’s classroom, they leave high school behind for a little while to enter the theater.  The walls throughout her room are adorned with countless playbills and huge tapestries with quotes from famous plays, many of which are precious gifts or hold special memories for her.  It feels like another world rather than a classroom, far from the rote stress of an ordinary day in high school in the safe haven she provides for these drama kids.  As whimsical as this all may seem, it’s a busy day in the life of one very special theater teacher who ushers five lively classes through this space all week long.

So where does Mrs. Truelove get the patience and expertise to be in the director’s seat with so many theatrical personalities?  Well, in addition to being an amazing mom to her spectacular kids, she has an extensive background in theater and working with children.  She earned her bachelor’s degree in Theatre and Communication Studies from Gustavus Adolphus College in St. Peter, Minnesota then went on to tour with national theater companies where she spent much of her time engaging with audience members in educational performances.  Of course, as a mother, life sometimes asks us to slow down to play another role, and so she did take those breaks in between her professional life on stage.  Upon her return, Mrs. Truelove has done extensive volunteer work in theater, in local schools here in Wellington, and also very rewarding work in ministry.

When I asked Mrs. Truelove about what made her want to come teach at Wellington High, she said she “loves the opportunity for kids to express themselves. They go through so much emotionally, it’s a safe outlet to create art.  It’s a beautiful experience for the performers and the audience.”  Then we stood in her doorway as the last bell rang.  The frenzy of the end of that first day of school blazed past, but not without an occasional student popping by for a quick hug and a “hi, Mrs. Truelove” and some quick smalltalk before rushing to catch the bus or car line.  And that’s how true legends are made in show business – every beautiful moment carefully crafted by the director with love.

***

Melanie Kafka has been a Wellington resident since 2011, which she decided was the perfect place to raise her two daughters after returning to Florida from serving in the United States Navy.  She earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees at Palm Beach Atlantic University while developing her career as a Senior Project Engineer in the aerospace industry.  She is also co-founder of the Wellington Ladies Golf Club, which serves to welcome women and girls into the sport of golf while promoting an atmosphere of inclusion on and off the course.

Autumn Escapes Await at these Colorful Destinations

Terri Marshall
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Autumn Escapes Await at these Colorful Destinations

Summer may linger in Florida, but across the country and across the pond as the season fades, rich fall colors emerge. Vibrant landscapes display shades of gold, orange and red. The crisp air beckons hikers to lace up their boots and get outside. For those who prefer a laid-back seasonal experience, scenic views abound – whether from your car window or the windows of a mountain or lakeside resort. From New York to the Pacific Northwest to a wellness resort in Italy, autumn escapes await at these colorful destinations.

Autumn Destinations
New York State in Autumn – Photo Courtesy of Mower PR

Embrace Autumn in Lake Placid, New York

The picturesque Adirondack region boasts one of the longest fall foliage seasons in the country. Popular trails like High Falls Gorge offer stunning views of the Au Sable River spilling over ancient granite cliffs. Other must-visit hiking destinations include Whiteface Landing, Catamount Mountain, and Whiteface Mountain.

The luxurious Whiteface Lodge serves as a gateway to prime hiking spots where visitors can fully immerse themselves in autumn’s charm.

Autumn destinations
Tarrytown House Estate on the Hudson Photo Courtesy of Mower PR

Step into the Victorian Era on the Hudson River Valley, New York

Discover an idyllic retreat just a short drive from the hustle and bustle of New York City, where the Hudson River Valley transforms into a mosaic of fall colors. For a taste of history while gazing at the foliage, explore the Old Croton Aqueduct Trail to see a testament of Victorian engineering and the region’s industrial past. For a more leisurely stroll or bird-watching experience, Rockefeller State Park offers serene woodlands, lakes and meadows.

Situated in the lower Hudson River Valley in Westchester County, Tarrytown House Estate provides the perfect nature escape from Manhattan with storied ambiance, stunning hiking trails nearby, and plush Georgian-style comforts.

Autumn Destinations
The Lake House on Canandaigua Photo Courtesy of Morrow PR

Spend a Weekend Lakeside in Canandaigua, New York

When the leaves start to change, the Finger Lakes come to life with bursts of natural colors and a nice crisp autumn breeze. With many Finger Lakes hiking trails, adventure seekers can explore the Dryer Road Park multi-use trail system, or 23 miles of Ontario Pathways trails perfect for birdwatching, botanical walks, and fall leaf peeping. Just a brief distance away, Bristol Mountain beckons with an array of trails and scenic views to take in the beauty of the changing colors.

For lodging, consider the Lake House on Canandaigua which provides the perfect setting for a fall leaf-peeping experience as you look out over Canandaigua Lake. After a day of hiking, enjoy a boat cruise around Canandaigua Lake.

New York's Central Park in Autumn
Central Park in Autumn Photo: Shutterstock

Experience Manhattan in Full Color

Manhattan takes on a new, vibrant character for the arrival of the fall creating urban enchantment adorned with autumn hues. The bustling streets transform into their autumnal best and Central Park becomes an ideal spot for leaf peeping with its golden foliage. Most people do not realize that Central Park has an abundance of hiking trails from the North Woods to the Northwest Central Park Loop.

For a stay that complements this transformation, Sofitel New York offers a quiet oasis perfectly situated in the heart of Midtown only steps away from Bryant Park and other iconic New York destinations.

Skamania Lodge
Skamania Lodge on the Columbia River Gorge Photo Courtesy of Mower PR

Head West for an Adventure on the Columbia River Gorge, Washington

When it comes to embracing the beauty of the changing fall leaves, the Pacific Northwest is a hidden gem well worth exploring. Particularly, the Columbia River Gorge with its steep cliffs and winding river adorned with a mix of vibrant maples and aspens that create the perfect contrast against evergreens and the rugged terrain. For adventurous souls, the Columbia River Gorge has plenty of hikes for chasing waterfalls like Multnomah Falls.

What better way to be immersed in the beautiful foliage than to sleep under towering timbers and enjoy hiking trails right outside your door? Skamania Lodge has everything you need for the perfect outdoor experience to see nature’s changing colors with over 293,000 acres of unspoiled wilderness. There are four miles of nature trails located on the property complete with views of the Cascade Mountains, Wy’East Lake, Red Bluff Mountains and Lily Pad Lake. A fitness trail is also available for those wanting to break a sweat while relishing the autumnal atmosphere.

Autumn Destinations
Preidlhof Wellness Retreat Photo Courtesy of Mower PR

Cross the Pond for a Wellness Retreat in South Tyrol Region, Italy

For a leaf-peeping adventure abroad, northern Italy is renowned for its gorgeous fall foliage and autumnal sights. The Dolomites and the Alps Mountain ranges allow for an impressive array of forests with comfortable temperatures and a crisp fall air. There is no better time to visit this region than during the fall before the rush of skiers.

Preidlhof, a luxury wellness resort at the foot of the Texel Group Nature Park, offers multiple opportunities to explore these leaf-peeping locations with excursions to the Dolomites landscapes. Explore the Alpe di Siusi by bike or enjoy a gastronomic experience near the Fiè Lakes to make the most of the changing natural landscape.

Happy Fall Y’all!

What’s What in Great Britain

Mike May
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What’s What in Great Britain

By Mike May

Fish n Chips

The late, great, two-time British prime minister Winston Churchill once stated that the United States of America and Great Britain are “two great countries divided by a common language.”  During my recent trip to Scotland, I can confirm that Churchill’s decade’s old linguistic observation remains true.  While in Scotland,  my communication skills and vocabulary knowledge were put to the test — as yours will be, too — when you have a chance to visit any of the four countries (England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland) that comprise Great Britain.  While life in the United States and Great Britain can be described as very similar, it can also be described as very different – especially as it relates to terminology and references to daily life.  The purpose of this story is to share those differences so you won’t be left wondering how to communicate when you visit any part of Great Britain.

In my opinion, it all starts with transportation.  In Great Britain, the cars and trucks travel on the left side of the road and the driver sits on the right side of the car.  So, it’s definitely a good idea to look both ways – twice – before crossing any road, street or thoroughfare.

When it comes to words and terminology used on a regular basis, it’s amazing how many aspects of daily life are described differently.  For instance, in the food sector, French fries are chips; potato chips are crisps; cookies and crackers are biscuits; whole wheat bread is brown bread; ketchup is tomato sauce; napkins are serviettes; and silverware is cutlery.  In transportation circles, you don’t rent a car, you hire one; big trucks are lorries; a car’s trunk is the boot; a car’s hood is the bonnet; gasoline is petrol; and petrol is sold by the litre and not the gallon.  In the area of television, an actual television set is often called a telly; a television show is referred to as a programme; and an on-air news anchor/personality is called a presenter. In the area of clothing, water-proof boots are often referred to as wellingtons; pants or slacks are trousers; a sweater is a jumper; tennis shoes are trainers; a warm-up outfit is called either a track suit or trackie; and a pair of underwear would be called a pair of pants.  And, in the area of education, while Americans refer to all educational institutions as some form of school, the British refer to elementary school as primary school and high schools are often called grammar schools.  In Britain, there is a difference between a college and a university.  When Britons continue their education beyond grammar school, they often refer to the experience as “going off to university.”

In sports, soccer is football; track & field is athletics; golf carts are called buggies; and a playing field for an outdoor sport is called a pitch.

Finally, when you make plans to travel, don’t forget your cell phone – it’s a mobile phone in Britain — so you can capture your British experiences with your in-phone camera, which, by the way, is also called a camera in the U.K. 

Happy September 2024!

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Happy September 2024!

A Groundbreaking, a Peace Ceremony, a Salt Cave and More…

Hope you’re off to a great start with September!  This month as we head back toward “season,” events Around Wellington are ramping up.  I’m excited to be attending a groundbreaking for the new Wellington Sports Academy on September 7th.  I’m also excited to go to the 17th Annual Wellington Peace Ceremony on September 22nd.  For more events coming up soon, visit “News & Events” on our site. 

I had the pleasure of interviewing Robyn Adams and Vinnie Perrotti, owners of the SaltSuite, located at Lantana and 441.  I’ve also enjoyed a couple of helpful sessions at the SaltSuite, going into their Salt Cave for approximately 45 minutes and coming out breathing easier.  Check out the “AW Spotlight” story this month!

With this back to school time of year, Jaime Joshi Elder brings us some very helpful parenting tips in “Ask the Docs.”  Read her article, “Building Resilience: How to Support Your Child’s Mental Health This School Year.” 

Speaking of back to school, our very wise “Teen Talk” writer Madison Mangoni offers 7 helpful tips for choosing a career path early on in life.  This is a great read for both parents and teens. 

In “Health & Fitness,” Lillian Khanna writes “I’ve built out a 4-month weightlifting program for a 3 day a week commitment for beginners. This plan is designed to help you build strength, grow muscle, and lose body fat.”  The plan she provides is really perfect for someone who wants to achieve these goals but doesn’t know what routines to go by when they walk into the gym.  Check it out.

Meanwhile, in “Paws-itive Press,” Hannah Deadman-Arnst writes about “Five South Florida Dog-Friendly Breweries You Can’t Miss.” And even if you are not a dog-owner, her recommendations for best brews are on point.  I was just at Mathews Brewery last night, enjoying the music of Spread the Dub, a ska band. 

Well, there’s much more to explore.  Lots of great content, thanks to our AW writers!  Just visit AroundWellington.com and click around.  If  you haven’t subscribed to our free weekly eNewsletter, I highly recommend it.  Just go to “Subscribe” on our site.

Have a wonderful month!

Krista Martinelli                

Founder & Editor

AroundWellington.com

AW in Pictures – September

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AW in Pictures – September
At the end of August, Florida residents raised their voices to protect Jonathan Dickinson State Park and other state parks from being turned into golf courses.
“Summer’s End” by Rollin McGrail.
SaltSuite Owners Robyn Adams and Vincent Perrotti, featured in our Sept 2024 “AW Spotlight” story

The Importance of Making Your Career Choice Early

madison mangoni
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The Importance of Making Your Career Choice Early

By Madison Mangoni

     I know most of us as children dreamed of being astronauts who would soar through space, gorgeous princesses wearing beautiful tiaras, or great pilots like Amelia Earhart. I aspired to be a fairy princess that the animals in the forest adored and visited every day. We all had rather big dreams for ourselves.

     We didn’t realize it at the time, but we were utilizing our aspirations and creativity to identify employment options for ourselves. Now that we’ve all reached older years, we must make the job decisions that will shape our lives. Though it may appear to be a hard decision and cause you migraines, it is critical to determine which career field you are interested in learning about or begin to pursue.

     Even though I am just a junior, I have been thinking about what I want to accomplish with my life since fifth grade. Now, I understand that may sound a little early, but I knew I was in love with animals. I’ve been in a pre-vet program since sixth grade, and I feel it was the smartest decision my fifth-grade mind could have made. I picked something in my life that I valued and loved and found a job path that matched it; you can do the same. Now, I understand that selecting a profession is not easy for everyone, so I’ve devised a few methods that may help you find the career you love.

     #1: Identify your skills and interests.

Consider what you love doing, what comes naturally to you, and what activities you find meaningful.

     #2: Envision your ideal state.

Take the time to learn about yourself, what you actually want in life, and what you believe you will need in the future. Dream big. Consider how you want to retire, where you want to live, and how you want to live.

     #3: Take your time.

While some of you reading this may already be in high school or in your junior year, like me, and have no idea what you want, don’t rush. Spend a month or two thinking about what you want to do with your life. Rushing it in a few days or weeks can only cause you stress and it make it more difficult.

     #4: Use your network.

You can speak with your parents, older siblings, teachers at your school, your guidance counselor, or even a college adviser. Don’t be hesitant to contact anyone you believe is qualified to assist you; they will be happy to do so. Take the initiative for yourself now and your future self.

     #5: Visit a college fair.

If you have a career path in mind but want to learn more about it, attending a college fair may be quite beneficial. You may chat with all of the universities there, and they will tell you what they have to offer based on the career you want. This might also help you narrow down your options if you want to attend college.

     #6: Consider salary and benefits.

To make a wise career choice, research wage ranges and benefits packages. I understand that money is not intended to be the primary consideration while looking for a job; instead, it should be what you enjoy doing. But you also want to make sure you’re setting yourself up for a comfortable future.

     #7: Take action and indulge in the career you want to choose.

I volunteer at a veterinary hospital, but you may volunteer anywhere you like as long as they allow it. Reach out to places. Even if they say no, it’s better to try than to never find out. This might also help you determine whether or not you want to pursue this career path. Sometimes you discover it’s not what you want to do, so volunteering can help you find the ideal profession for you.

     As I’ve gotten older, adopting these seven steps has been really beneficial in determining my career path. My aim is that they will benefit not just myself, but also you who are reading this. Remember to be bold and not fearful of the future. It may be frightening at first, but if you find something you enjoy, it just gets easier from there. It helps you create goals and enhances your academic performance by motivating you to do well on tests or quizzes. Take these seven steps into consideration when searching for the ideal career for you, and I am confident they will help.

A 4-Month Weights Workout Plan

Lillian Khanna
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A 4-Month Weights Workout Plan

By Lillian Khanna

If I found this article when I first started my journey, it would have saved me months worth of fitness plateaus. My goal is to make fitness accessible and understandable. You shouldn’t be crafting your workout plans based on reels you see on the internet, they should be a long term plan based on how many days you plan on going and what your goals are.

Below, I’ve built out a 4 month weight lifting program for a 3 day a week commitment for beginners. This plan is designed to help you build strength, grow muscle, and lose body fat. Over the next 16 weeks, you’ll train three times a week using squat racks, barbells, dumbbells, and cable machines – all the materials you’d find in a basic gym!

Month 1: Foundation Building

Focus on learning proper form and building a solid foundation with lighter weights.

Days per Week

  • Day 1: Upper Body
  • Day 2: Lower Body
  • Day 3: Full Body

Workouts

Day 1 – Upper Body

  • Warm-up: 5-10 minutes on a cardio machine
  • Bench Press (Barbell): 3 sets of 8 reps
  • Bent-Over Row (Dumbbell): 3 sets of 10 reps
  • Shoulder Press (Dumbbell): 3 sets of 10 reps
  • Bicep Curls (Cable Machine): 3 sets of 12 reps
  • Tricep Pushdowns (Cable Machine): 3 sets of 12 reps

Day 2 – Lower Body

  • Warm-up: 5-10 minutes of dynamic stretches
  • Squats (Barbell): 3 sets of 10 reps
  • Deadlifts (Barbell): 3 sets of 8 reps
  • Lunges (Dumbbell): 3 sets of 12 reps per leg
  • Leg Curls (Cable Machine): 3 sets of 10 reps
  • Calf Raises (Bodyweight or Dumbbell): 3 sets of 15 reps

Day 3 – Full Body

  • Warm-up: 5-10 minutes on a rowing machine
  • Deadlifts (Barbell): 3 sets of 8 reps
  • Incline Bench Press (Dumbbell): 3 sets of 10 reps
  • Pull-Ups/Assisted Pull-Ups (Bodyweight or Machine): 3 sets of 8 reps
  • Plank (Bodyweight): 3 sets of 30 seconds
  • Russian Twists (Bodyweight or Dumbbell): 3 sets of 15 reps per side

Month 2: Strength and Endurance

Increase the weight slightly and focus on building endurance.

Same Structure as Month 1

  • Increase weights by 5-10% if form feels solid.
  • Add one more set to each exercise.
  • Rest 60-90 seconds between sets.

Month 3: Hypertrophy Focus

Increase volume to stimulate muscle growth.

Days per Week

  • Day 1: Push Exercises
  • Day 2: Pull Exercises
  • Day 3: Leg Focus

Workouts

Day 1 – Push Exercises

  • Bench Press (Barbell): 4 sets of 8 reps
  • Overhead Press (Barbell): 4 sets of 10 reps
  • Incline Dumbbell Flyes: 3 sets of 12 reps
  • Tricep Dips (Bodyweight or Assisted): 3 sets of 10 reps
  • Lateral Raises (Dumbbell): 3 sets of 12 reps

Day 2 – Pull Exercises

  • Bent-Over Row (Barbell): 4 sets of 8 reps
  • Lat Pulldowns (Cable Machine): 3 sets of 10 reps
  • Seated Rows (Cable Machine): 3 sets of 12 reps
  • Hammer Curls (Dumbbell): 3 sets of 12 reps
  • Face Pulls (Cable Machine): 3 sets of 15 reps

Day 3 – Leg Focus

  • Squats (Barbell): 4 sets of 10 reps
  • Romanian Deadlifts (Barbell): 3 sets of 10 reps
  • Leg Press (Machine): 3 sets of 12 reps
  • Walking Lunges (Dumbbell): 3 sets of 12 reps per leg
  • Glute Bridges (Bodyweight or Barbell): 4 sets of 10 reps

Month 4: Consolidation and Conditioning

Focus on conditioning and refining form with higher-intensity workouts.

Days per Week

  • Day 1: Circuit Training
  • Day 2: Full Body Strength
  • Day 3: Cardio and Core

Workouts

Day 1 – Circuit Training

  • Perform each exercise for 45 seconds, rest 15 seconds, then move to the next.
  • Push-Ups (Bodyweight)
  • Goblet Squats (Dumbbell)
  • Bent-Over Row (Barbell)
  • Shoulder Press (Dumbbell)
  • Plank (Bodyweight)

Day 2 – Full Body Strength

  • Deadlifts (Barbell): 4 sets of 6 reps
  • Pull-Ups/Assisted Pull-Ups (Bodyweight or Machine): 3 sets of 8 reps
  • Bench Press (Barbell): 3 sets of 8 reps
  • Step-Ups (Dumbbell): 3 sets of 12 reps per leg
  • Russian Twists (Bodyweight or Dumbbell): 3 sets of 20 reps

Day 3 – Cardio and Core

  • 20-30 minutes of moderate-intensity cardio (such as cycling or jogging)
  • Hanging Leg Raises (Bodyweight): 3 sets of 10 reps
  • Plank Bridges (Bodyweight): 3 sets of 45 seconds
  • Bicycle Crunches (Bodyweight): 3 sets of 20 reps

Stick to the plan, focus on form, and enjoy the process. Remember, consistency is key! Listen to your body and adjust weights as needed.

Best Herbs to Plant at Home to Repel Bugs Naturally

Charmaine Peters
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Best Herbs to Plant at Home to Repel Bugs Naturally

By Charmaine Peters

Summers may not be bug-free, so it’s important to explore ways to keep pests at bay. While store-bought repellent sprays are an option, natural methods effectively deter insects and, at the same time, promote a non-toxic environment for everyone. Herbs, with their aromatic properties, are excellent allies in repelling pesky bugs. They are easy to grow and maintain, so cultivating them at home provides a fresh supply of flavor to our dishes and a natural, effective, way to keep our living spaces bug-free.

Let’s discover some of the best herbs you can grow to repel bugs naturally:

Citronella

Citronella is the most well-known natural insect repellent. Its oil is commonly found in candles and sprays that have been specially designed to keep mosquitoes at bay. You can crush a few leaves and gently rub them on your skin to enjoy its repellent effects instantly. It can be grown in large pots or directly in the ground. To help the plant thrive, place it in a sunny location with six to eight hours of sunlight daily. It prefers rich, well-drained soil and loves warm climates. Water the plants regularly, but make sure the soil has good drainage.

Basil

This kitchen staple does more than add flavor to our favorite dishes. Basil’s strong scent effectively repels mosquitoes and flies, making it a must-have for any home. Placing pots of basil near outdoor seating areas or windows can help discourage insects from entering your home. Keep in mind that the plant thrives in warm, sunny locations, with well-drained soil. Plant basil after the last frost, and water it regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Pinch off the flower heads to encourage more leaf growth.

Rosemary

Rosemary is known for its robust flavor and doubles as a potent insect repellent. Its woody aroma deters mosquitoes and can be burned as incense outdoors to create a bug-free zone. The plant can grow in pots or garden beds, as long as it gets full sun for six to eight hours daily. Plant it in well-drained soil. Remember to water the plant evenly and be careful not to overwater, as this can cause root rot.

Mint

Mint’s refreshing scent is delightful to us but repels ants and flies. Planting mint around the perimeter of your garden or near entryways can deter pests from venturing too close. This herb grows best in moist, well-drained soil, and partial shade. It spreads quickly, so it’s best to plant it in containers to prevent it from taking over other plants. Regularly trim the plant to encourage bushier growth.

Sage

The strong, earthy scent of sage is effective at repelling unwanted insects such as mosquitoes, moths, and beetles, especially when the leaves are burned. You can make sage bundles by tying dried sage leaves together and burning them like incense. The plant thrives in full sun, so plant it in a sunny spot, and in well-drained soil. Water it sparingly, as it prefers dry conditions. Prune the plant regularly to encourage new growth and maintain its shape.

With these natural herbs, you can enjoy the warm season without the annoyance of buzzing insects. Plant them in hanging baskets on your balcony, pots on the patio, or window boxes by the kitchen to naturally ward off mosquitoes, flies, and other unwanted visitors. Let’s create a more peaceful and enjoyable environment for relaxation and gatherings with friends and family this summer!

Take a look at this article if you’re looking for spices to grow at home.

Come On, Mom. One. More. Time.

Heidi Hess
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Come On, Mom. One. More. Time.

By Heidi Hess

My head was spinning. I’m telling myself to breathe. My seventeen-year-old son is ushering me back into the cue for Mako (the tallest, longest, steepest rollercoaster in Florida) at Sea World because we need to go on, you guessed it, just one more time. This was our fourth time going on and the bunny hills were starting to turn my stomach but… I couldn’t let him down.

So, I keep walking, breathing, and get on the coaster not just one more time but three more times after that. Go me. It’s funny the things you can do when your kids are involved. Now full disclosure, I love rollercoasters. I talk about them all of the time. I’m drooling over the new ones being built for Epic Universe in Orlando. By the way, the Penguin Trek rollercoaster opened the day we were there and it’s fantastic…a really good starter rollercoaster for the littles but fun for the whole family. 

While I was in line, I was thinking, what happened to doing things just one more time? Why is once enough? Have we lost that childlike mentality that says “again, again, again?” What do you like to do? Today I challenge you. Whatever it is, do it one more time. Life’s short and doing things we love keeps us happy and enhances our life. Could we survive our medical ailments if we did this more? I can’t say… but it sure can’t hurt. In fact, it might find you smiling just a little more. 

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