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Are these the most genius parenting hacks ever? Exhausted moms and dads share creative DIY solutions to make life with kids a little easier

Albert Elence — Wed, 20 Mar 2024 16:07:23 +0000

By Ellen Coughlan for Mailonline

Published: 03:38 EDT, March 20, 2024 | Updated: 5:16 AM EDT, March 20, 2024

Most parents are constantly looking for creative ways to make their lives easier while keeping their children happy.

And now mums and dads from all over the world have shared their genius tips online – and Bored Panda collected a selection of the best examples in a gallery.

They include a creative idea to place a half smiley face on each pair of children’s shoes so they can match the image to ensure they are on the right foot.

Elsewhere, in Shanghai, a father gave his son three toothbrushes and two toothpastes so he could choose which one to use, giving him a false sense of control over brushing his teeth.

Moms and dads from all over the world have been sharing their brilliant parenting tips online and Bored Panda has collected them into a gallery. They include a clever way to keep kids’ fingers clean by using a cupcake wrapper to catch the melting ice cream drops (pictured)

Another impressive idea came from a mother who uses the ‘loudest crunch competition’ to get her kids to eat vegetables, allowing them to ‘choose their vegetable weapon’ to bite into.

Elsewhere, a mother in France found the perfect way to hide Ben & Jerry’s ice cream for her children in the freezer.

She simply placed the containers in empty produce packets, knowing they would never be raided.

The examples include a creative idea to place a half smiley face on each pair of children’s shoes to match them in the photo and ensure they are on the correct foot.

Elsewhere, a father decided to tag his child at a public event so he could follow him as he walked away

Another impressive idea came from a mother who uses the ‘loudest crunch competition’ to get her kids to eat vegetables, allowing them to ‘choose their vegetable weapon’ to bite into.

Another smart parent learned how to trick their child into thinking he’s having a cup of tea, but likes sweets instead

A mother in France found the perfect way to hide Ben & Jerry’s ice cream for her children in the freezer

Elsewhere, in Shanghai, a father gave his son three toothbrushes and two toothpastes so he could choose which one to use, giving him a false sense of control.

Meanwhile, a simple game called ‘hands on the circle’ keeps these kids safe when they get out of their cars so they don’t run away

Meanwhile, this mom decided to use a large wooden ruler to prevent her toddler from opening drawers

Have you ever had trouble figuring out which plaster was which? This parent divided them into bags and taped an example to each bag

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Car deals are easier to find, but lenders are tightening their terms

Sabir Ansary — Fri, 08 Mar 2024 14:48:56 +0000

More new cars are available this spring, and manufacturers have even started offering deals to entice buyers.

But at the same time, lenders have tightened the terms of auto loans as they deal with a rising number of delinquencies. That has made it harder for some people to get affordable loans.

There was generally access to car loans for both new and used cars worse in January than in December and lower year over year, according to Dealertrack, a Cox Automotive service that tracks credit availability based on factors such as loan approvals, terms and down payments. The impact was seen at banks, credit unions and dealerships.

“We’re seeing access to credit tighten across all channels,” said Sean Tucker, editor-in-chief at Kelley Blue Book, Cox’s auto research and sales website.

Subprime borrowers in particular — consumers with the lowest credit scores — may have trouble finding financing, Mr. Tucker said. The share of subprime loans for new cars has fallen to about 6 percent, about half of what it was before the pandemic.

Borrowers with a strong creditworthiness are particularly attractive to lenders. The average creditworthiness The number of new car buyers taking out a loan or lease rose to 743 at the end of 2023, up from 739 a year earlier, according to fourth-quarter data from Experian Automotive, which tracks auto financing. For used cars, the average score was 684, up from 681. (Experian’s report uses VantageScore 3.0 scores, ranging from 300 to 850; scores of 661 and above generally qualify for favorable terms.)

People are become delinquent on auto loans (and credit cards) at higher rates than before the pandemic, according to the Federal Reserve Bank of New York’s February report on household debt and credit in the fourth quarter of 2023.

“This indicates increased financial stress, especially among younger and lower-income households,” said Wilbert van der Klaauw, economic research adviser at the New York Fed, in a statement about the findings.

Delinquencies for all types of consumer debt fell during the depths of the pandemic in 2020 and 2021, the Fed report said, but have risen as savings from stimulus aid decline and pauses on mortgage and student loan payments have expired.

Auto loans secured in 2022 and 2023 are having more trouble so far than previous loans, “perhaps because buyers faced higher car prices in those years and may have been under pressure to borrow more at higher interest rates,” according to researchers at the New York Fed. a blog post. Interest rates on auto loans are influenced by the Federal Reserve’s benchmark interest rate, which has risen during the Fed’s campaign against high inflation.

Although both car prices and average loan amounts have started to decline in the past year, monthly payments have not, partly due to higher interest rates on car loans, according to Experian. The average monthly loan payment for a new vehicle was $738 at the end of last year, up from $720 in 2022. The average for a used vehicle was $532, up slightly from $530.

The average interest rate on a new car loan was 7.18 percent at the end of 2023, compared to 6.08 percent in 2022, according to Experian.

Interest rates can affect down payments. Heading into 2020, a 10 percent down payment was common. But it has been rising and has hovered around 15 percent in recent months — likely as buyers try to lower their monthly payments, according to Cox Automotive.

Now that there is ample inventory of new cars, dealers have started offering incentives such as cashback rebates. Dealers typically like a 60-day supply of cars, but the average now is about 80 days, Mr. Tucker said. That means manufacturers can offer deals to get vehicles off the sales lots. “Supply is excellent,” he said, in contrast to the shortages that drove up prices during the pandemic.

However, used car buyers will find that even though prices have stabilized, “they’re still quite high,” says Benjamin Preston, auto writer for Consumer Reports.

There is an argument for waiting a while, if you don’t have to buy a car right away. Automakers that emphasized more profitable, high-end models with luxury features during the pandemic are expected to ramp up production of more affordable cars in the coming months, Tucker said. And the Fed has indicated it could cut rates sometime this year, which could make loans more affordable.

Lower interest rates are now possible — if you have prime credit and can afford a shorter loan term, which means higher monthly payments, says Rod Griffin, senior director of public education and advocacy at Experian. (Longer-term loans — those that last six to seven years — had an average interest rate of about 9 percent, Experian found.)

Recently, Honda offered 2.9 percent financing, with a term of 36 months, for Honda CR-Vs; Subaru offered 1.9 percent with a 48-month loan on Outbacks.

Here are some questions and answers about car shopping:

How can I prepare for buying a car?

Prepare early, Mr. Griffin advised — at least six months before you plan to buy. Check your free credit report and, ideally, your credit score. (Ask your credit card company or lender before paying for a score. Many provide it for free to their customers). Take all possible steps (such as paying bills on time) to improve your profile.

Then buy your loan and your car separately, Mr. Tucker said. Make sure you get pre-approved from your bank or credit union and take that offer to the dealer to see if they can beat it.

Is there a new rule for car purchases?

Yes, but it is not yet in force. The Federal Trade Commission finalized this last year CARS ruleto combat fraud in the car retail sector, aimed at protection car buyers of hidden costs and pricing tactics. The commission said the rule would make it easier to shop around based on a car’s actual price and save buyers an estimated $3.4 billion a year.

The rule was to debut at the end of July, but the agency postponed pending the outcome of a legal challenge by industry groups. “We continue to believe that the rule is unnecessary, redundant and confusing and will unnecessarily lengthen the auto-selling process for consumers,” said the National Automobile Dealers Association, one of the rule’s proponents. opponentssaid a statement.

What should I do if I cannot pay my car loan?

The Federal Trade Commission recommends contact your lender immediately. Some lenders may agree to work with you if you can continue making payments even if they are late.

If you don’t pay, the lender can confiscate your car. You may owe the difference between what your lender gets from selling the car and what you still owe on it, as well as costs associated with the repossession. In addition, if a lender repossesses the vehicle, it may become more difficult and expensive to obtain credit in the future. Know your rights, which vary by state. Please contact your office of the attorney general.

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Comedian Janey Godley says she’s donating clothes to charity and ‘getting everything ready’ to make her death easier on her family after terminal cancer diagnosis

Sabir Ansary — Wed, 06 Mar 2024 05:01:38 +0000

Janey Godley has revealed she is ‘getting everything ready’ and making sure she is ‘financially secure’ for the moment she dies after being diagnosed with terminal cancer in 2022.

The Scottish stand-up comedian, 63, appeared on Lorraine to discuss her upcoming tour and documentary, which is set to hit cinemas on March 15.

Janey explained that she doesn’t have a conventional bucket list but is “enjoying life every day” after she was diagnosed with stage 3 ovarian cancer two years ago.

‘I have no desire to get up and climb a mountain; most days I just want to lie in my pants and listen to a good murder podcast,” she told Lorraine.

She went on to joke, “Women love murder podcasts. It’s just so we can get tips on how to escape.’

Janey Godley, 63, appeared on Lorraine to discuss her upcoming tour and documentary

While addressing the serious side of her diagnosis, the comedian said she is clearing out her old assets and making sure her children don’t inherit any of her debts when she passes away.

“I bought a car and paid for everything straight away because I don’t want them to be left with debts,” she told Lorraine.

“When you’re confronted with these things, you become good at securing everything financially.

“So I get rid of a lot of clothes, I get rid of a lot of old stuff. The charity shop loves me.

“I’m just winding down and getting everything ready so it’s not such a big trauma when I go.

“And I think this is something we need to talk about.”

“You’re absolutely right,” Lorraine replied. “You’ve encouraged people to have the conversations we need to have.

The Scottish stand-up comedian was diagnosed with terminal ovarian cancer in 2022

Janey revealed her unconventional bucket list as she prepared for death

“I actually really like the way you organize yourself.”

Janey, who went viral during lockdown for posing as Nicola Sturgeon, was unsure if she would be able to complete her Not Dead Yet tour.

However, she is now planning a new tour, starting on March 16, in addition to a new book and radio show.

Additionally, the documentary, which discusses the comedian’s terminal cancer diagnosis and his childhood in Glasgow, will be released in cinemas on March 15.

Janey explained that it was her daughter Ashley’s idea to film the tour.

“She said, ‘If this is the last hurray, why don’t we stick a camera in your face and let us document it all?'” the comedian told Lorraine.

She continued, “Because that tour would be the last tour.

“And of course I didn’t go on time… so I’m still here, but she wanted to document it.”

Janey Godley appeared on Lorraine to discuss her upcoming projects

The comedian appeared in good spirits despite being diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2022

Lorraine chuckled during Janey’s interview on the breakfast show

Janey pointed out that the average person continues to work during a terminal cancer diagnosis.

“You’re doing all the great things you were already doing in your career, so you keep working and doing what you love,” Lorraine emphasized.

She continued: ‘But a lot of people say, ‘oh I want a bucket list or I want to do this or I want to climb Everest’, but really it’s just life. Or do you have a bucket list?’

“No, I have a pulley,” Janey replied, explaining that she prefers to “live every day.”

She continued to say that she is surrounded by friends and family, and that she enjoys taking long walks on the beach with the dogs.

The comedian also admitted that he went to Guiseppe’s cafe to eat large slices of cake.

“I’m leaning against the hernia right now,” Janey joked.

“Ashley says, ‘Just wear maternity clothes and scare people and make them think, ‘Why is that old woman pregnant?’ ”

“Ashley and I laugh all the time.”

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It just got easier to visit a disappearing glacier. Is that a good thing?

Albert Elence — Sun, 03 Mar 2024 10:29:33 +0000

Claude Folmer was about 40 years old when he first visited Mer de Glace, the largest glacier in the French Alps. He remembers enjoying the panoramic view from the observation platform and then taking a short walk to the ice, where he toured the ice cave carved into the surface of the glacier.

Forty years later, on a mild, sunny morning in early February, Mr Folmer – now 80 and accompanied by his adult son Alain – admired the same glacier. He was shocked by the change.

“The difference is enormous. The glacier used to be right underneath it,” Mr. Folmer said, pointing to the gravel-covered river of ice that now lies more than 800 feet below the viewing platform. “For someone who doesn’t know what it was like in the past, it’s a beautiful scene. But when you know the difference, it’s really sad,” he said.

Mr Folmer, who lives near the French town of Albertville, traveled by train to Chamonix, the mountain town from which visitors can easily visit the glacier. He and his son happened to be there on the opening day of a gondola that transports visitors between the viewing platform and the ice below. The Folmers were unaware of the new lift – which replaces an older gondola built in 1988 – but when they heard the news, neither were happy.

“At some point you have to leave the glacier alone,” the younger Mr. Folmer said. ‘Large machines are being installed. Where will it stop?”

It’s a question many travelers are asking themselves as climate change threatens a growing number of tourist destinations – from glaciers to coral reefs, from ski slopes to low-lying islands. For thousands of years, people have raced to be the first to climb a peak, cross a border, or document a new species or landscape.

In some cases we are racing to be last.

The term last-chance tourism, which has gained popularity over the past two decades, describes the impulse to visit endangered places before they disappear. Studies to have found it that the allure of disappearing can be a powerful motivator. But in many cases, the presence of tourists in a vulnerable location can hasten the site’s demise.

There is some evidence that a visit to an endangered place can bring about a meaningful change in behavior among visitors, potentially offsetting the negative consequences of a trip. But the research is still in its early stages and results are mixed.

In a place like Chamonix – where tourism is the mainstay of the economy and where climate change is already having tangible impacts on tourism supply – such tensions are playing out in real time. The shift to a new way of interacting with the landscape may come slowly, because many jobs – and also tourist habits – are built into the old way of doing things. But some are already pioneering a new approach, and with the effects of global warming accelerating, change will have to come quickly.

A new gondola in Chamonix

The Mer de Glace, or Sea of Ice, which once stretched from the slopes of Mont Blanc to the valley in Chamonix, has been attracting visitors for almost three centuries. Mark Twain, Mary Shelley and Alexandre Dumas were among the first tourists to visit Montenvers, the site of the Mer de Glace viewpoint, and helped spread the word about the glacier.

Today, about half a million people visit Montenvers in a normal year, says Damien Girardier, head of the site, which is owned by the city of Chamonix and managed by the Compagnie du Mont Blanc. Most visitors arrive via the red cog train that connects the viewing platform to the center of Chamonix, although some arrive on foot – or ski. Every year around 80,000 people ski down the Mer de Glace, a classic backcountry alpine descent called ‘la Vallée Blanche” (the White Valley) that ends at the glacier terminus, below the viewing platform. They then walk to Montenvers with their skis, or take the lift.

The new lift, which opened the first weekend of February, was built about a quarter mile higher in the valley than the 1988 lift in anticipation of the glacier’s further retreat. In the 35 years since that old lift was built, the glacier has retreated so far that about 600 steps had to be installed between the bottom of the lift and the ice surface. That made it more difficult for older adults and anyone with limited mobility to reach the glacier from Montenvers. It also provided a long uphill climb for weary Vallée Blanche skiers at the end of a long day.

Mr. Girardier said the new elevator, which cost 20 million euros, or about $21.6 million, was built in accordance with strict environmental controls. Colors were chosen to blend in with the landscape, special cable was used to minimize noise and most of the building materials were transported to the site by train. The gondola is also built in such a way that future generations can easily dismantle the structure – if they wish.

“In 15 years, the glacier will probably have reached the end of the lift,” Mr. Girardier said, “but that doesn’t matter. If you go to Iceland, people walk for an hour to get to the glacier. It will be the same for us.”

The new elevator is part of that a larger project that also includes the construction of a new educational exhibit, called the Glaciorium, about glaciers and climate change. The center is expected to open at the end of this year, although some funding is yet to be confirmed.

In the meantime, day trippers can visit the ice cave, which has been revamped with a new design and information displays, while skiers can take the lift to end a day of skiing in the Vallée Blanche, a major source of work. for the leading community of Chamonix.

Julien Ravanello, a mountain guide with the Compagnie des Guides de Chamonix, leads approximately 20 Vallée Blanche tours per season. He said the new lift would make things easier on a route that – with a guide – is within reach of most intermediate skiers.

“We like it above all because it shows people the universe of the high mountains,” said Mr. Ravanello, who added that such an accessible glacier ski descent “is almost unique in the world.”

Capucine Pénicaud, a global health consultant and yoga instructor who lives in Chamonix, skis the Vallée Blanche once or twice a year.

“It is a place that I love and at the same time makes me very sad,” Ms. Pénicaud said of the glacier, adding that her visits to the Mer de Glace almost always move her to tears. “I think it’s a real opportunity to go there because you can understand – and feel – global warming,” she said.

But Mrs. Pénicaud is not happy with the new elevator. She said she didn’t mind making the 45-minute walk to the viewing platform at the end of a Vallée Blanche run. The concrete for the project was also mixed in the Chamonix Valley, near where she lives, and then transported to the site by helicopter. “For the past two years I have seen helicopters dropping concrete every half hour. How much gasoline? How much pollution? How much concrete?” she said.

The Compagnie du Mont Blanc confirmed that concrete for the project had been transported by helicopter, but added that the train had been given priority for the transport of other construction materials “for both environmental and financial reasons.”

Last chance tourism

Can a visit to such a site bring about a change in behavior?

Researchers at Mer de Glace have found that exposure to the vulnerable environment can inspire people to engage in environmentally friendly behavior – or at least express their intention to do so in a questionnaire.

a Survey 2020 of summer visitors to the glacier found that 80 percent said they would “try to learn more about the environment and how we can protect it.” Another 82 percent said they would stop visiting glaciers if it would protect them, while 77 percent said they would reduce their water and energy use.

More research would be needed to see if tourists follow this initiative. But based on the study results, researchers concluded that using last-chance tourism as an opportunity to educate visitors about climate change – while also stirring people’s emotions and showing them concrete steps they can take to protect the environment – could maximize the environmental benefits of climate change. this kind of tourism.

Others are skeptical. Karla Boluk, professor in the department of recreation and leisure studies at the University of Waterloo, in Ontario, pointed out her research which found that a majority of last chance tourists in two Canadian locations were unwilling to pay for carbon offsets.

“There is an ethical paradox in last-chance tourism, and it is about the moral question of whether travelers recognize and respond to the harm they cause,” said Dr. Boluk.

“It is important for us to undertake thoughtful decision-making and careful research to ensure that we do not contribute to the collapse of these places, exacerbating the problems caused by climate change,” she said, adding that tourist “destinations” also include places are. the locals call it home.

A different approach

Elsewhere in the Chamonix valley, the staff of the Research Center for Alpine Ecosystems is working to understand the potential impact of a different approach to nature tourism: citizen science.

Colin Van Reeth, an ecologist and manager of citizen science programs at the center, described the outings he and his colleagues have organized, in which participants are invited to stop at a pond during a walk to document the frogs they see. “For us, it’s about engaging tourists in naturalistic observations of the mountains,” said Dr. Van Reeth. Their hypothesis is that by strengthening people’s sense of connection with the natural environment, they can inspire people to make lasting and meaningful changes in their behavior.

“It’s about identifying those small steps, those small stages of transformation,” said Dr. Van Reeth.

Some don’t need a push.

Standing at the viewpoint, 80-year-old visitor Mr Folmer said he stopped flying two years ago out of concern about the climate, and takes local trips on his bike whenever he can.

“I don’t blame people who fly every now and then when they go on vacation,” Mr. Folmer said as he looked at the glacier. “But when you see this, you think that each of us can make a little personal effort.”

Paige McClanahan, a regular contributor to the Travel section, is the author of “The New Tourist: Waking Up to the Power and Perils of Travel,” out June 18 from Scribner.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram And sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter for expert tips on smarter travel and inspiration for your next holiday. Are you dreaming of a future getaway or are you just traveling in an easy chair? Check out our 52 places to go in 2024.

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Amazon is making a change to Fire TV Sticks that will make free content easier to find

Jeffrey Bailey — Sat, 02 Mar 2024 09:14:07 +0000

AMAZON has made a big change to its Fire TV Sticks, making it easier to find free content.

This feature is coming to both Amazon’s Fire TVs and Fire TV Sticks, including the latest 4k Max Stick.

Amazon has made some changes to its Fire TV SticksCredit: Amazon

The US company has introduced ‘transparency’, which makes it clear whether a particular TV show or movie you have searched for or is recommended to you is included in your subscription package or whether it is a video on demand .

The information can be found on the show or movie’s mini-detail page, where you’ll get more information about the title.

Below the show or TV title and above the synopsis, you will now see a new indicator that lets you know if the show is included in your subscription, if it is available for free with advertising option, or if it is a rental or purchase option. .

Other improvements have also been made.

In addition to the improved transparency, Amazon has made some upgrades to other parts of the user interface.

A new Top Results row has been added that shows the five most likely results when you search.

So if you search for comedy movies, you’ll see five recommendations based on a combination of your own viewing and search history and what’s popular and what’s currently trending.

The Continue Watching row has also been expanded.

When it started last year, it included content from a range of streaming apps, including Prime Video, Freevee, MGM Plus, Max and STARZ.

Now Hulu and Tubi have been added to the list, with Amazon also saying Disney Plus is coming soon too.

Amazon Fire TV Stick owners warned of a new update that bans popular free apps – check settings now

Another new feature is the browser-based virtual keyboard and remote that lets you type and control your TV from your phone.

Whenever the onscreen keyboard appears, it will also display a QR code that can be used to bring up the browser-based keyboard on your phone.

Where to buy a Fire TV Stick?

Fire TV Sticks are an easy way to add streaming to an older television. They are manufactured by Amazon, but you can buy them from a number of different stores.

*If you click on a link in this boxout, we may generate affiliate income.

Britain

The feature, similar to that found in the Apple TV 4K when used with an iPhone, should make text entry much faster.

Meanwhile, an Amazon Fire TV Stick user reveals six ‘great apps’ for streaming ‘tons of content’ for free, including popular movies.

Amazon Fire TV Stick users can also try a lesser-known app to get free content.

We explain the difference between Fire TV Stick Lite and Fire TV Stick.

Owners of Amazon Fire TV Sticks have also been warned that their bank accounts are at risk of being raided amid a new crackdown on illegal streaming.

A big change will make it easier to find free contentCredit: Getty

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Aldi is making major changes to 22 stores to make shopping ‘easier’

Jeffrey Bailey — Fri, 01 Mar 2024 12:09:28 +0000

ALDI has announced that it will be testing a new feature in 22 of its stores to make shopping “easier” for its customers.

The discount retailer has said that the InPost parcel lockers will be available outside selected stores throughout the month of March.

This month, InPost parcel lockers are available at 22 Aldi storesCredit: Getty

Customers near these stores can pick up parcels while doing their weekly shopping.

Shoppers should be able to receive their packages from their lockers with a QR code via email that must be scanned.

Aldi will test the program with the intention of rolling it out in more stores if it is successful.

What is InPost UK?

InPost is a popular locker service that allows people to drop off and pick up packages 24 hours a day.

The service is often used by Vinted users who want to sell or buy second-hand clothing.

They have also been given a tracking number that they can scan using a keyboard on the InPost locker screen.

The service can be compared to parcel services such as ziffit.com or Amazon lockers.

However, Amazon locker services allow people to pick up Amazon packages instead of having them shipped to their homes.

You may find InPost lockers outside train stations, in shopping centers and outside other supermarkets such as Lidl.

Richard Thornton, communications director at Aldi UK, said: “We want to make everything efficient for our customers, and the installation of InPost lockers will make shopping at Aldi even easier.

“People can collect or return parcels while doing their shopping, with the lockers accessible with a QR code.

“If the trial is successful, this will hopefully be available to many more of our customers later this year.”

Here you will find the full list of stores where Aldi will be testing parcel lockers.

Kingswood Road, Nuneaton
Hollier’s Walk, Hinckley
Buttsstraat, Annan
4 Knightscliffe Avenue, Glasgow
Blackpool Road, Preston
Ashton under Lyne
Magdalen Street, Colchester
471 Springfield Road, Chelmsford
North Street, Bedminster, Bristol
Caerphilly Road, Cardiff
St Mark’s Road, Sunderland
Chichester Road, South Shields
Leeds Old Road, Thornbury
Magdalene Road, Little Coates, Grimsby
281 Smithdown Road, Liverpool
1 Clocktower Drive, Liverpool
Lortas Road, Basford
Somercotes
Southampton Road, Portsmouth
London Road, Rosherville, Gravesend
Holdenhurst Road, Bournemouth
171 Bristol Road, Quedgeley

Michael Rouse, CEO of InPost International, said: “We are on a mission to bring unparalleled parcel convenience to UK shoppers, and this trial with Aldi does just that.

“With more than 6,000 parcel lockers across the UK, we offer hassle-free delivery options that can be easily integrated into customers’ daily routines. In this case, Aldi customers can now collect and deliver their parcels easily and efficiently while doing their weekly shopping.

“We look forward to the results of the trial and the start of a successful partnership.”

How do I use an InPost locker?

Check to see if your local store has InPost lockers outside.

Use the Aldi store locator on its website to find the correct postcode.

Enter your zip code on the InPost website to see if lockers are available near your store.

To send a package via InPost, scan the QR code you received and follow the on-screen instructions.

You don’t need a label because couriers will add one for you when they pick up your package.

To collect your package, you must scan the collection code you received via email or text message.

You have three days to collect your package once it has been delivered and you will receive a reminder when you have 24 hours left to collect it.

If the package is not picked up on time, it will be returned to the seller.

When the parcel lockers are being trialled in your area, you can enter your store’s zip code into the InPost lockers and indicate when they are available for use.

News comes that Aldi has confirmed it is making another big change, but this concerns the till.

Aldi recently introduced a 20-item limit on its self-service checkouts.

The German retailer also announced it will reduce the price of 50 items in the aisle of a major supermarket.

We have discussed the entire list of fruits and vegetables.

How to save money at Aldi

It’s worth keeping an eye out for the retailer’s red stickers on the products; the staff will add these if something has been reduced in price.

But it may catch some shoppers off guard, as most supermarket chains are putting yellow stickers on discounted items.

In the meantime, follow the advice of super saver Tom Church and shop at the German discounter on Wednesday at 10am.

This is the time when the staff restocks their regular items and you have the best selection of products to choose from.

Aldi also produces a special shopping brochure that lists the items that are on sale each week.

It’s worth signing up for the Aldi newsletter and following them on social media.

Aldi also picks six fruits and vegetables every two weeks and delivers them at a ridiculously low price

Do you have a money problem that needs to be solved? Get in touch by emailing money-sm@news.co.uk.

You can also become a member of our new Sun Money Facebook group to share stories and tips and engage with the consumer team and other group members.

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I don’t feel sorry for stay-at-home moms; it’s easier than people think

Jeffrey Bailey — Thu, 29 Feb 2024 10:34:29 +0000

THE DECISION to continue working full-time or caring for children is not an easy one for most parents.

But a woman has revealed she has little sympathy for her friend after she chose to be a stay-at-home mum.

The mother revealed that caring for the toddlers at home was easier than workingCredit: Getty

Taking to social media, Anita revealed that her friend no longer talks to her after claiming it was her choice to be a stay-at-home mom – and that she shouldn’t expect her husband to help with chores.

The woman, who also has children and is a stay-at-home mother, explained that her friend had an argument with her husband over the division of labor.

Now she has to live with her decision.

Anita

She said: “She said she expects her husband to also do the housework when he comes home from his 60-hour-a-week job as a GP. He says he is too tired and needs to rest when he is home, but she says “I work 24 hours as a SAHP, you should too”.

“She then came up to me and asked my opinion. Personally, I believe that being a SAHP is not as difficult as people say it is.”

She stated that it was her opinion and said that she and her partner took turns being stay-at-home parents while the other worked.

“Both my husband and I took turns being stay-at-home parents with both of our children,” she continued.

“If one of us stayed home, we made sure that whoever worked outside the home had to do minimal work around the house.

“We both agreed that the opportunity to stay home and watch our children grow is a privilege rather than a burden.”

The woman revealed that her friend dictated that she stay home with the children instead of working – despite her husband wanting to both work and share household chores so they could spend equal time with the children.

Her friend disagreed, claiming that “she finds a man who wants to be home unattractive.”

I’m an emo mom and I’m always judged during the school run. I don’t care what people think, I know I look great

Now it seems that the mother is not happy about staying home and doing all the chores, and she felt it was unreasonable that her husband would not help.

She told her friend that she agreed with the man and that he should relax in the evening because he thought how tiring it is to be a doctor.

“I then politely reminded her how she had chosen to do this. She refused to accept a childcare sharing arrangement with her husband, so now she has to live with her decision,” she added.

But things didn’t go well and her friend no longer talks to her.

She further asked if she was being unreasonable in her response.

The message has been uploaded to Mothernet has received a huge response from fellow parents – many of whom agreed with the woman.

One person wrote: “It sounds like she regrets her choice and is unhappy, not necessarily harder, she just doesn’t want to do it.”

Another noted, “Being full-time working parents basically means being a SAHP who works 40 hours a week. It’s not like parenting is part-time, is it? It’s not like chores and laundry don’t exist for people with diabetes jobs. Your boyfriend would do my crazy, tbh.”

“Honestly, it’s easier to be a SAHP unless your kids have additional needs. Whether it works for you or makes you happy is a whole other matter,” wrote a third.

Meanwhile, a fourth said: “She asked for your opinion, if she just wanted to vent then she should say so. YANBU for giving your opinion when asked.”

“I have also been a SAHP and a full-time working parent. Working full-time is much harder, no matter what people say,” claimed a fifth.

Someone else added: “Honestly I’ve done both. Being a SAHP was boring but much easier.”

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US proposes new rules to make flying easier for travelers in wheelchairs

Sabir Ansary — Thu, 29 Feb 2024 10:19:05 +0000

The Biden administration announced Thursday that it is proposing new rules for how airlines must treat passengers in wheelchairs, an effort aimed at improving air travel for people with disabilities.

Under the proposed rule, damaging or delaying the return of a wheelchair would be an automatic violation of an existing federal law that prohibits airlines from discriminating against people with disabilities. The Transportation Department said the change would make it easier for the agency to penalize airlines for mishandling wheelchairs.

The proposed regulations would also require more robust training for employees who physically assist disabled passengers or handle their wheelchairs.

“There are millions of Americans with disabilities who avoid air travel due to inadequate aviation practices and inadequate government regulation, but now we want to change that,” Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said in a statement. “This new rule would change the way airlines operate and ensure that travelers who use wheelchairs can travel safely and with dignity.”

For people in wheelchairs, flying can be difficult and uncomfortable, and airline mistakes can make for an even more painful experience. According to the Transportation Department, more than 11,000 wheelchairs and scooters were mishandled by airlines last year.

The proposed regulations complement previous steps by the Biden administration intended to improve the flying experience for disabled travelers. In 2022, the Department of Transportation published a Bill of Rights for Airline Passengers with Disabilities. Last year, the agency finalized new regulations to require more commercial aircraft to have accessible bathrooms.

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You’re using parchment paper wrong: A two-second trick makes baking a lot easier

Jeffrey Bailey — Mon, 26 Feb 2024 12:02:30 +0000

Have you ever tried to put parchment paper in a cake pan, only to realize that it wouldn’t stick to the pan?

It’s a common problem most of us have when we bake – and something that many of us simply struggle with.

Brianna shared a two-second hack to change your baking gameCredit: tiktok/@bjoyce777

Tired of parchment paper not shaping to your cake pan?Credit: tiktok/@bjoyce777

However, one woman has revealed that we’ve been using it wrong all this time and people can’t quite believe they didn’t know until now.

On social media, Brianna Joyce shared the simple two-second life hack that would change your baking game forever.

“You’re not listening to the parchment,” she began, holding up a sheet.

“IT’S DAMNED,” she continued, showing the problem we all have when we try to get it into a cake pan and it’s constantly lifting and moving.

She then took viewers to the sink as she looked into the camera with a mixture of frustration and focus.

Now it will do its job because it is no longer dried out

Brianna Joyce

Brianna took the parchment paper, rolled it into a ball, and ran some cold water over it.

“Blossom paper,” she joked as she held up the now soaking wet sheet of parchment paper.

“Now it will do its job because it is no longer dried out,” she continued.

The foodie then placed the parchment paper back into the cake pan and it looks like her two-second hack was enough as it quickly fit into the pan without moving.

The simple yet effective hack might be just what you need to make baking just a little bit easier next one time you try a cake recipe.

The clip was posted to her TikTok account @bjoyce777 has since gone viral with over 8 million views and 680,000 likes and sparked a huge debate in the comments section.

I work for Greggs – the frozen favorite from Iceland that is EXACTLY the same as the one we serve in store

While some were grateful for the tip, others were still skeptical about how real it was

One person wrote: “Every day this app teaches me something.”

Another commented: “Is this real? Tell me the truth.”

“It doesn’t sound good, but I don’t know enough about parchment paper to dispute it,” a third wrote.

Meanwhile, a fourth said: “I couldn’t find anything on Google and it’s not in the manual either, so it stays dry in my house.”

“I’m definitely not going to do that, I’ll just cut it to size,” claimed a fifth.

Someone else added: “What have I been doing wrong all this time?”

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Brianna recommended wetting it and it surprises peopleCredit: tiktok/@bjoyce777

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Travel influencer reveals genius hack to get toddlers to sleep on flights – and the solution is easier than you think

Albert Elence — Thu, 22 Feb 2024 20:26:45 +0000

A travel influencer has revealed her genius hack for getting toddlers to sleep on flights – and the solution is easier than you think.

Brittany Warfaring, from Vancouver, Canada, travels regularly with husband Philippe Fernandez and two-year-old son Dori – with the trio completing more than 50 flights.

The content creator, who regularly shares her top tips on YouTube, recently shared how parents can get their kids to sleep on the plane.

She explained that it all comes down to making just a few simple preparations in advance.

Brittany Warfaring, from Vancouver, Canada, travels regularly with husband Philippe Fernandez and two-year-old son Dori – with the trio completing more than 50 flights

The content creator, who regularly shares her top tips on YouTube, recently shared how parents can get their kids to sleep on the plane

In the clip, shared earlier this week, Brittany began by candidly explaining that letting her son sleep on the plane was one of her “biggest sources of anxiety.”

The mother of three used a range of techniques she’d tried in the past – including packing a portable sound machine, books and blankets – when Dorican be considered a ‘lap child’.

‘As he got older, he got his own seat on the plane. What became clear to me on flights where I needed him to fall asleep was: yes, I need to pack all that stuff I just mentioned…

‘But what is also crucial these days is that toddlers need their own bed a kind of place where they can fall asleep and stay asleep.

‘My lap or just the chair itself is no longer sufficient.’

Brittany explained that this meant she now always packs something to “create a comfortable space.”

She then talked about the options for possible airplane beds, starting with bringing the car seat on board.

‘If your toddler sleeps very well in the car (mine doesn’t), you can take your car seat on board the plane.

She pushes him into the footwell before draping coats and sweaters over the makeshift bed to make it more comfortable.

“For me, there are a few major drawbacks to this option: it’s annoying to lug around and there’s the possibility of kicking the seat in front of you, which isn’t fun to deal with.”

Brittany explained that this doesn’t work well for her son either ‘doesn’t like being confined to a chair for long periods of time.’

The mother then turned her attention to the second option, which was choosing to sit in the bulkhead row, i.e. rows without seats in front and therefore ‘significantly more legroom’.

‘If you are happy with your toddler lying on the floor, you can choose to sit in this row. Take some blankets and pillows with you on the plane and turn your toddler into a small floor bed.

‘The downside to this is that if there is any turbulence you have to wake them up and secure them back in their seats.

‘It’s not the safest. The Cin my experience it can be quite bright and noisy as it is usually closer to where the flight attendants prepare food and people go to the toilet – tHere there is some more traffic in the bulkhead row.

‘You cannot keep your hand luggage in front of you during take-off and landing. YYou should keep them in the overhead bin.

‘And worst of all, on many planes the bulkhead armrests don’t go up. THey, they’re kind of stuck in place, which means your toddler can’t lie on you, which for me is a big drawback.’

The mother continued: ‘We are creating a little canopy in the plane so that the lights don’t bother him as much and are less likely to wake him up.’

Brittany’s final solution, which she has been using for the past six months, is to bring your own toddler bed on the plane.

The avid traveler shared that there is a wide range of beds available in the market – that you can buy and then improve to meet the needs of your own children.

Brittany’s structure is built around an inflatable footrest from Amazon, which inflates in moments.

She pushes him into the footwell before draping coats and sweaters over the makeshift bed to make it more comfortable.

The mother continued, “But this is the super secret way we improve this whole bed design.

“We also take one of these thin baby muslin blankets on the plane and a few clips… to create a little canopy on the plane so the lights don’t bother him as much and are less likely to wake him up.”

“So he’s in his own little cozy cocoon on the plane and hopefully sleeping.”

Brittany briefly warned that such DIY designs may not be allowed on some airlines or on aisle seats because it poses a safety risk during an emergency.

After sharing her top three bedding solutions, she also advised parents not to let children sleep at the airport and tire them out before the flight.

Once on board, Brittany then relies on doing Dori’s normal bedtime routine – like brushing her teeth and putting on pajamas – before letting him read or watch “sleepy videos” on YouTube.

Brittany’s clip was viewed hundreds of times and was flooded with comments from followers grateful for her advice

Once on board, Brittany relies on doing Dori’s normal bedtime routine — like brushing her teeth and putting on pajamas — before letting him read or watch “sleepy videos” on YouTube.

She concluded: ‘We do a lot to comfort and reassure him. Remember, they are in an uncomfortable, possibly very unfamiliar environment, and you are their safe place.”

Brittany’s clip was viewed hundreds of times and was flooded with comments from followers grateful for her advice.

One person wrote: ‘You are so funny and real! I love that you just keep going even if things don’t go the way you planned.”

Brittany replied, “Thank you so much for saying that. He’s at the point where he’s been skipping naps more and more lately, so we just have to get on with it!’

Another person wrote: ‘Another very useful video – thanks.’

A third person commented: ‘I’m having trouble packing [and] adjusting myself to make sure everything is okay.”

Brittany responded transparently, “I always feel anxious and overwhelmed before a big trip with my son, but it will be fine!”

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