The Good Life Report - Differentiating Deductions & Tips For A Healthier, Greener Lifestyle
"The person who asks is a fool for five minutes, but the person who does not ask remains a fool forever."
- Chinese Proverb
Homemade Belgian Waffles
8 servings
Ingredients:
- 2¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 Tbsp. baking powder
- 3 Tbsp. sugar
- Salt
- Cinnamon
- 2 eggs, separated
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 cups milk
- Vanilla extract
Directions:
- In a large bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, and sugar. Sprinkle in a pinch of salt and cinnamon, to taste (about 1 tsp.).
- In another bowl, whisk the egg whites until stiff peaks form.
- In a third bowl, mix together the egg yolks, oil, milk, and vanilla extract (about 1 tsp.).
- Add the yolk mixture to the dry mixture and mix well. Then, fold in the egg whites.
- Pour the batter onto a hot waffle iron and cook as directed (usually about 3 minutes).
- Serve with fresh fruit, pure maple syrup, powdered sugar, or any other toppings!
Recipe adapted from TheSaltyMarshmallow.com[9]
Do You Know The Difference Between Standard and Itemized Deductions?
Deductions may help you manage the amount of taxes you owe, but it's important to understand the different types of deductions. You have the choice of either taking a standard deduction or itemizing your deductions. Here are some details to help you understand the difference between the two:
- The standard deduction may adjust every year and can vary by filing status. It also depends on a number of factors. You may be able to find the standard tax deductions on the first page of your filing form (such as Form 1040 or Form 1040-SR).
- Itemized deductions refer to individual expenses, such as state and local income or sales taxes, real estate taxes, mortgage interest, mortgage insurance premiums, and more. Taxpayers may be able to itemize deductions when the amount is greater than the standard deduction.
* This information is not intended to be a substitute for specific individualized tax advice. We suggest that you discuss your specific tax issues with a qualified tax professional.
Tip adapted from IRS.gov[10]
This Drill Will Help You Lean How To Uncock Your Wrists Properly
Uncocking your wrists properly during your swing is a big component of generating power and control. A passive arm position can help you focus more on the power coming from your core. Keeping your wrists straight will help you achieve this soft arm technique.
To start the drill, set up as you normally would with an iron, then bring your hands down the shaft so the club's handle is pressing into your stomach. Then, take a few quarter swings and bring the club back the same distance as your follow through. You'll notice that if you're doing the drill correctly, your arms and wrists should stay straight. If they hinge, that means that you're not uncocking your wrists correctly. Get used to this motion to use it in your normal swing.
Tip adapted from GolfMagic.com[11]
Health Benefits Of Pets
Any pet owner knows that their four-legged friend is much more than just an animal - they're part of the family! Pets provide us endless love and cute pictures, but they may also provide a number of other health benefits. For example, the CDC shares that pets may provide us more opportunities to get outside, exercise, and socialize. They may also help manage loneliness by being loyal companions.
Here are a few of the potential health benefits of having a pet:
- Decreased blood pressure
- Decreased cholesterol levels
- Decreased triglyceride levels
- Decreased feelings of loneliness or depression
- Increased opportunities for exercise or outdoor activities
- Increased opportunities for socialization
If you're considering bringing a pet into your family's life, make sure to do research on which type of pet is right for you. In addition, the CDC recommends always staying healthy around your pets and washing your hands after petting them or cleaning up after them.
Tip adapted from CDC.gov[12]
How To Eat Sustainably
Speaking of eating, there are lots of things you can do to support a sustainable food system. Every decision you make at the grocery store is a vote for or against a greener future. Here are some things to consider next time you're filling your shopping cart.
- Eat more plants - The maintenance and production of beef contributes nearly half of greenhouse gas emissions in the American diet. Not only is eating more plants healthier for you, but it also helps reduce these emissions.
- Waste less food - Food waste is a major problem in the U.S. In fact, Americans waste $90 billion each year on food that never gets eaten.
- Buy local - Local produce, dairy, and meat reduces the travel your meal needs to take to get to your plate. Also, it's healthier for you!
Tip adapted from EarthShare.org[13]
