Irene Kelleher's blog

(NC) Is prioritizing your health a goal this winter? Follow these tips for a healthier, happier season:

1. Make your home a haven. Transform your home into a cozy retreat from the cold. Adding fuzzy blankets, fleece pillows, scented candles and family photographs to your living space can help create a warm, welcoming environment to soothe your soul.

2. Try your hand at winter sports. Exercise is great for your mind and body, and can strengthen your muscles and immune system. Winter sports like skiing, ice-skating or even snowboarding can be a fun and invigorating challenge

3. Be mindful of...

(NC) This is a time when many of us start to think about our goals for the coming year. For some, taking care of our health is a key priority. Building in healthy habits where possible is important to our health. Here are four ways you can get healthier this year.

Eat well
It’s not easy to change a habit. Eating habits are no exception. There are many different factors that make changing your eating habits difficult. But over time and with small steps you can be well on your way. You can make healthy eating habits easier to maintain over the long term by finding options that fit your daily...

(NC) This is a time when many of us start to think about our goals for the coming year. For some, taking care of our health is a key priority. Building in healthy habits where possible is important to our health. Here are four ways you can get healthier this year.

Eat well
It’s not easy to change a habit. Eating habits are no exception. There are many different factors that make changing your eating habits difficult. But over time and with small steps you can be well on your way. You can make healthy eating habits easier to maintain over the long term by finding options that fit your daily...

(NC) At this time of year, many of us start compiling lists of things we resolve to tackle in the coming months. Here are four things you should consider for your list.

Get your finances in order
With high inflation and interest rates, you may be among the many Canadians struggling to make ends meet. If you are, the first step to getting your finances under control is to create a detailed budget. It should include your income and a list of all your expenses. Your expenses tally will have a mix of fixed costs, like your rent or mortgage payment and utility bills, plus discretionary spending...

(NC) The high cost of living is having an impact on a lot of people’s finances. If you’re struggling to pay your mortgage, know that you’re not alone and that there are ways to help reduce some of the stress.

It’s important that you talk to your bank as soon as possible if you’re having a hard time making your mortgage payments so you can discuss your options together.

Renegotiating your mortgage
You may be able to renegotiate your mortgage agreement. You could, for example, convert your variable interest rate to a fixed interest rate. This option could help lower your payments if interest...

(NC) The holiday season is quickly approaching. Bring on the list-making, gift-giving, party-going time of year. But what would the holidays be without delicious dishes to keep everyone feeling merry and bright? And by everyone, that includes our canine companions, of course.

Check out this list of pup and pet-parent-approved festive foods, as well as those to avoid:

Enjoy pumpkin: Can you even call it a holiday feast without pumpkin? Good news for pups – pumpkin is not off the table for them to enjoy. In fact, pumpkins are a superfood and are full of nutrients. Feeding dogs cooked or...

(NC) Choosing the right insurance coverage is crucial when protecting your home and personal belongings. Whether you own a home or rent a property, having adequate insurance ensures you are covered for unexpected events. However, the type of insurance you need differs based on whether you are a homeowner or a tenant.

If you’re renting a property, it’s essential to understand that your landlord’s insurance typically only covers the building and the landlords’ assets, not your personal belongings. This means that if your items are stolen, damaged or destroyed due to an incident like a fire,...

(NC) Are you planning on hosting family or friends over the holidays? Here are five ways to be the host with the most this holiday.

Balance your budget
With many people worried about the high cost of living, you might be rethinking hosting this year. But you don’t have to break the bank to throw a memorable gathering. You can keep costs down by printing things at home instead of buying from a stationary store. Options include creating low-cost invitations, gift wrap and even three-dimensional DIY decorations.

Kids corner
Will there be children at the party? If so, create a kids’ corner...

(NC) Does your holiday decoration display light up the whole neighbourhood? Twinkling lights and holiday adornments can be just the festive touch to ward off the winter blues. But these same items can also be a potential fire hazard. Follow these tips from Co-operators to ensure you can enjoy the holidays safely.

Before installing

• Take the time to untangle and inspect the condition of your light strings and extension cords for both indoor and outdoor lights, and replace any that are old, frayed or showing any signs of damage.
• Opt for newer CSA-certified, energy-saving lights and consider...

(NC) As winter approaches, our homes become cozy retreats. However, the use of various sources of heating can increase the risk of fires. Here are some practical tips to help keep your home safe:

• Check smoke detectors: Smoke detectors should be tested monthly and batteries replaced twice a year. You may consider upgrading to a 10-year lithium battery.
• Keep flammables away from heat: Maintain at least one metre (three feet) of clearance around heat sources.
• Use space heaters safely: Plug them directly into a wall outlet (i.e. do not use extension cords) and turn them off when not in use.

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