3 easy-to-make flavored iced coffee recipes for a cool summer

As soon as summer and spring descend, it’s time to whip up the seasonal beverages that will keep you cool. Iced tea and flavored iced coffee are two of the most popular beverages during this time; they give you your caffeine fix as well as a respite from the heat outside.

It’s true that your local barista or the popular coffee chain in the neighborhood will have some of the fanciest-looking flavored iced coffees in their menu, but when you break down the basics, most of these can be easily made at home. Whether you want a light vanilla-flavored iced coffee or something more dessert-like with a nice topping, you can try your hand at these delectable flavored iced coffee recipes at home:

  • Vanilla-flavored iced coffee: This is one of the simplest flavored iced coffee recipes. For this, you will need a cup of ground coffee, 4 vanilla beans that are split lengthwise, a cup of milk, ¼ cup of sugar, and a few ice cubes. Mix the ground coffee with 4 cups of water. Cover it and let the coffee stand overnight or for 12 hours at room temperature. Mix the vanilla beans, sugar, and milk in a saucepan and let the mixture simmer over medium heat. Let it stand and steep for 20 minutes. Strain the coffee into a bowl through a fine-mesh sieve. Through a coffee filter, strain the coffee again into a large pitcher. Fill four tumblers with ice cubes, pour coffee till one inch of the rim, and then pour the vanilla-flavored milk.
  • Chocolate-flavored iced coffee: This chocolate-flavored iced coffee has a sweetish taste to it. This recipe calls for a cup each of fat-free milk and boiling water, 4 teaspoons each of instant coffee granules, chocolate syrup, and sugar, 1/8 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and a few ice cubes. Dissolve the coffee in the water in a large bowl. Add and stir well the rest of the ingredients. Serve this flavored coffee over the ice cubes. You can top it off with a couple of scoops of vanilla ice-cream.
  • Thai iced coffee: Although the name has an exotic touch to it, this flavored iced coffee is quite easy to make. The ingredients required are a cup each of ground coffee and sweetened condensed milk and ¾ cup of milk. Make four cups of strong coffee by brewing the coffee in four cups of water in a coffee machine. Chill the brewed coffee in the refrigerator. Mix both the varieties of milk in a small bowl until a smooth consistency and chill the milk. While serving, pour the coffee in four tumblers filled with ice cubes and top them off with the chilled milk.

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE

  • A brief overview of the 4 types of SMA
    A rare genetic condition, spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), affects one in six to ten thousand people. This condition causes an impairment in the individual's ability to control their muscle movement. The main cause of the condition is a gene mutation; however, the symptoms, onset, and progress of the condition can be significantly different in every case. This is why SMA is broadly divided into four different types to provide information for physicians. Following is information about the four types of SMA for physicians: Type 1 SMA- Type 1 SMA is also referred to as infantile-onset SMA or Werdnig-Hoffmann disease. The main cause of this condition is possession of only two copies of the SMN2 gene. This is the most common type of SMA and more than half the patients are diagnosed with the type 1 SMA. The symptoms for this type start within the first six months of birth. They include weak cries; difficulty in moving, swallowing, or breathing; hypotonia (weak or floppy arms and legs); and inability to sit without support. Babies usually did not survive type 1 SMA, but with more information on SMA for physicians with new research and technology, a drastic change in the survival rate has been noted. Type 2 SMA- This type of SMA is also known as the intermediate SMA and, in most cases, individuals with type 2 SMA have a minimum of SMN2 genes. The symptoms start a little later when the baby is 7 to 18 months old. They can be less severe than type 1 in some cases. Symptoms include difficulty in standing, weak arms and legs, scoliosis (curved spine), coughing, and tremors in the fingers and hands. This type of the condition can reduce the life expectancy, but a large number of people with type 2 SMA survive into adulthood. Type 3 SMA- It is also known as the late-onset SMA or mild SMA. The symptoms for this condition are specific. Individuals with this condition have four to eight SMN2 genes. The symptoms begin after 18 months of age and are usually diagnosed at the age of 3. In some cases, the symptoms can be delayed and can only be encountered in the early parts of adulthood. They include difficulty in getting up from seated positions, balance issues, scoliosis, and a difficulty in climbing steps or running. This type does not alter the life expectancy, but it comes with the risk of obesity. Type 4 SMA- Also referred to as the adult-onset SMA, individuals with this condition have four to eight SMN2 genes. This is the least common type of all four types. Symptoms for this type usually occur post 35 years of age. They include weakness in the hands and feet, difficulty in walking, and shaking or twitching of muscles.
  • Tips to Buy the Best Mattress for a Comfortable Sleep
    When it comes to choosing mattresses, it can be quite a daunting task. The wrong mattress could leave you with a sore back and neck, as the shape of a particular person’s body is quite dependent on what the person uses to recline on. If the mattress is substandard, things can get quite discomforting. Moreover, if a child is reclining on the mattress, then it is imperative to choose the correct mattress type to avoid future posture and bodily problems. It is always good to know the most important factors for mattress selection. Once you know what to look for, you can easily buy the best mattress for yourself. So here are some of the most important things you must consider when buying the the best mattress.

    The core of the mattress

    When you buy the best mattresses, remember that the core of the mattress is responsible for the most important thing about the mattress itself - the support. They can be the of the following types.
    Innerspring
    If you desire a bit of bounce in your mattress, then an innerspring mattress is the best choice. The gauge of the metal springs can be from 12, which is the most sturdy, to 18, which is the thinnest and provides the greatest bounce. However, the weight of the person reclining is also an important factor for innerspring mattresses. If your weight is on the heavier side, then you should go for a mattress with a thicker gauge to offer you the most comfort. Also, bear in mind that the puffy look of a mattress in the store will only last a few months and the compression will increase with time. So, to buy best mattresses, this is a vital consideration.
    Memory foam
    Polyurethane core mattresses are among the top choices for those wanting to buy best mattresses and are also called memory foam mattresses. They tend to be much firmer than an innerspring mattress. The thickness and density of the foam layer are the most important factors here. Air-filled mattresses tend to be slightly customizable because they can come with a remote. This remote lets the user decide the amount of air that is inside the mattress. They sometimes come with two chambers, adjacent to each other.
    Latex
    Buying the best mattresses can be a tricky process when it comes to latex. Latex mattresses are quite similar to memory foam mattresses. The main difference is that they are slightly more bouncy and buoyant. They can be made with two types of latex, Dunlop latex, and Talalay latex. Dunlop latex is heavier than the latter. However, both types can last up to over twenty years.

    Sleeping position considerations

    The type of mattress you use should conform with your sleeping position preferences. Buy the best mattresses keeping the following sleeping positions in mind.
    On the side
    If you tend to sleep on the side, the mattress must be able to disperse the pressure appropriately. Firmer mattresses will provide lesser relief. Innerspring mattresses can probably offer more pressure relief than latex or foam variants. However, this depends on the company producing the mattress as well. So, you should this before buying to get the feel of it.
    On the stomach
    If you like to sleep on your stomach, a memory foam mattress which can contour according to the shape of the body is the most comfortable. Innerspring mattresses can also do a good job in this case. However, the best support will be given by the mattress with a firm top.
    On the back
    Lastly, if a person sleeps on their back, then the best option is getting something in the middle. Firm mattresses will provide support, but the softness will also allow for a healthy spinal alignment. Your choice of mattress will go a long way in deciding how nice sleep you get. Therefore, when you go out to buy the best mattresses, keep these tips in mind and make a good selection for you and your family.
  • Body odor and ways to deal with it
    Body odor is an unpleasant and foul smell that comes from our body due to various reasons. Many people suffer from body odor, but not everyone may be aware of effective body odor treatments. If you know the reason behind your body odor, you can seek the right treatment for the same. Let’s look at some facts and try to understand the reasons for body odor. Body odor can occur due to many reasons. Some of these are mentioned below:
    • Poor hygiene can definitely cause body odor.
    • Excessive sweating can cause a bad smell in the body.Various body odor treatments exist to remedy it.
    • Presence of germs on the skin is another reason for body odor.
    • Food that we consume also has a huge effect on how our body smells. If you eat food that is enriched with sulfur, it may cause the bad smell to emit from your body. Foods like onion and garlic can cause body odor in some people.
    • With proper treatment and diagnosis, you can treat all body odor issues. Below are some tips to control your body odor.
    How to get rid of body odor One can get rid of body odor by using a few effective body odor treatments. However, if you don’t want to visit a doctor then you can first try some home remedies. Given below are some points that will guide to get proper treatment for your odor.
    • Maintain good personal hygiene
    • Always keep your skin moisturized so that no there are scratches on it
    • Cuts and scrapes can cause infections, which can lead to body odor
    • If you are thinking about how to get rid of body odor then try maintaining a healthy diet as this can help in removing the foul smell. Consume more celery, citrus fruits, lemon and herbs like mint, coriander and parsley.
    Following a few simple tips can keep the body odor away. For a severe problem, see a doctor to know about the right body odor treatments that suit you the best.
  • Save More with SafeLink Wireless Phones
    SafeLink Wireless is one of the most popular phone service providers in the country for people who want to save money. Its services are aimed at low-income groups or for those who are really striving hard to control their mobile usage and bring down their expensive bill cycles. Here are some benefits of using SafeLink phones.
    Lifeline program
    SafeLink offers a Lifeline service. This service gives qualifying customers certain monthly discounts. The Lifeline program is very helpful to low-income consumers. Since 1984, the program has offered affordable phone service to low-income consumers. Each state has different guidelines to enroll for the Lifeline offer. To qualify for Lifeline, subscribers must meet several criteria which are listed online.
    Easy switch from another phone
    Switching to SafeLink from other services is super simple. There is very little effort you have to put in if you want to start your savings journey right away! What’s more, SafeLink also gives you a chance to keep your existing phone number! These services are also available for people registered with various federal assistance programs. The conditions/eligibility requirements differ from state to state.
    Only prepaid, no contracts
    Users can get a free a SafeLink Wireless cell phone or SIM card. Moreover, there is an assurance that users can use an exclusively prepaid facility. So, there are no bills and no contracts, unlike other service providers. One of the biggest reasons people don’t change to competitive service providers is because they have to take a long-term contract mandatorily. With SafeLink, there is no obligation to enter into a contract/prepaid facility, which also helps consumers pay exactly for what they need. Bill cycles, confusing bill break-ups, and unexpectedly high payments due to unrestricted use are automatically removed from the equation when you use SafeLink phones.
    A wide range of SafeLink phones
    These days, people cannot do without the Internet and use at least a minimum amount of data while on the go. Phones provided by SafeLink Wireless may not have all the features you want; however, this should not be a reason to keep you from enjoying the service. SafeLink also operates on a number of smartphones that are compatible with the service they provide. There are some excellent SafeLink phone options to choose from. SafeLink-compatible phones are user-friendly and come with huge discounts as well. According to information shared by users, Apple iPhone is the greatest brand smartphone in the world. If you have a few extra dollars, you can subscribe to the iPhone 6 LTE smartphone. SafeLink has offered huge discounts on celebrated brands like Apple. Other SafeLink phones are also available. The discounts can easily be claimed at your nearest SafeLink shop.

    Great brands

    There are some great phone brands to choose from. Paying less for calls and availing discounts or being part of the Lifeline program doesn’t mean that you have to compromise on the ease and comfort of smartphones. What’s more, SafeLink Smartphones from brands like Samsung, HTC, LG, Alcatel are available at highly discounted rates at SafeLink stores. Let us look at some of the most popular models for 2018 according to users.
    Samsung Galaxy J5 LTE
    This is the perfect choice for Android lovers and is compatible with the service. This is a steal for people who need to save up money and have basic mobile Internet requirements.
    HTC One M9LTE
    The HTC One M9 LTE has convenient features, great looks, and is pocket-friendly.
    Alcatel Ideal LTE
    This SafeLink phone is ideal for low-income groups or for those who use very little Internet data. In spite of its super cheap price, the phone has good features, is sturdy, and allows you access to the Internet.
    LG Google Nexus
    The brand speaks for itself. It is reliable, sturdy, sports an excellent design, and is affordable. This phone makes for a smooth browsing experience and has user-friendly features. It remains one of the popular SafeLink phone choices.
  • Things you should know about synthetic oil change and coupons
    Synthetic oil change is an essential part of vehicle maintenance that extends not only the efficiency of the engine but also the lifespan of your vehicle. It is therefore essential to follow the recommended maintenance schedule, as mentioned in your owner’s manual, to ensure all the parts are well lubricated, thus preventing corrosion and dust from affecting the performance of your engine. This article will throw light on the importance of synthetic oil and show how you can save some cash by using synthetic oil change coupons that are easily available online. Benefits of using synthetic oil To begin with, the synthetic blend is a formulation of synthetic and conventional motor oils. They are thinner and are great to ensure the extended lifespan of both your engine and your vehicle. In the modern era, more and more engines are designed to work well when synthetic oil is used. Not only does it provides protection but also ensure a high performance of your vehicle. Not using synthetic oil damages your vehicle and has a bad effect on your new-vehicle warranty. Another advantage of opting for the synthetic oil change is that it offers better performance and protection, it means that your car will not start screeching soon. Also, synthetic oil is designed to work even in extreme temperatures and ensures that the engine doesn’t wear off easily. Synthetic oil is also beneficial for those living in the cities as it’s more durable and doesn’t put too much pressure on the engine during traffic jams or grinding. Why use synthetic oil change coupons? On an average, getting your vehicle’s engine oil and filter change can cost you somewhere around 20$ to 40$. This price is not only the oil price but also includes labor charges, supplies used, disposing of the liquid, etc. This price is for a conventional oil change. Synthetic oil change usually costs somewhere between 40$ to 70$ depending on the type of filter that is required. Synthetic oil change coupons are an excellent deal for those who are looking to save money while getting their oil changes. Several companies update their websites with current ongoing synthetic oil change coupons and other great deals that can help you save some extra cash. You can also shop at retail chains like Midas, Jiffy Lube, Walmart, etc. as these offer some great synthetic oil change coupons and discounts on their services. It is always better to opt for the synthetic oil change as it is designed to handle and manage the tougher environment, temperature and ensures a smooth drive under any climatic condition. Here is a list of ongoing current list of coupons including synthetic oil change coupons and other discounts offered by automotive companies in the U.S.
    • Big O Tires –full-service filter and oil change ($19.99 )
    • Express Oil –Express full-service ($7 off)
    • EZ Lube–full-service change ($10 off)
    • Firestone–synthetic oil change ($19.99)
    • Goodyear – $24.95 Conventional, $39.95 Synthetic Blend, $59.95 Full Synthetic & several auto maintenance service offers
    • Grease Monkey –synthetic oil change coupon ($10 off)
    • Jiffy Lube– $5 off Jiffy Lube Signature Service (typically costs around $25-$30)
    • Meineke – $24.95 basic change, $34.95 preferred, $54.95 supreme and more
    • Merchant’s Tire –brakes check, battery check, fluid top off and tire rotation with up to 6 quarts (All inclusive at $19.99)
    • NTB–basic Services including battery check, tire rotation, brakes check and belts check with up to 6 quarts ($19.99)
    • Pennzoil – $5 and $10 off Pennzoil 14 point full-service
    • Pep Boys–conventional ($24.99), synthetic oil change coupon ($10 off), etc.
  • Four Brands To Shop From For Women Over 60

    Shopping for clothes when you are over 60 can be quite a task. All the brands focus on trendy, flashy, and completely over the top fashion which does not suit older women especially not those over 60! Looking for good clothes with sober colors and sophisticated patterns is usually very difficult these days. If you do manage to find such dresses for women over 60, chances are that they will be extremely overpriced simply because they cater to a niche. But who says dressing up when you’re older needs to be boring and out of style? There are so many good brands that produce the prettiest clothes and dresses for older women at extremely affordable prices. Here are four of the best brands to shop from -

    Asos
    Asos is an online shopping portal that has a lot of different brands under its umbrella. Not only do they have amazing clothing and accessories for both men and women, they also have one of the widest selection of brands and categories to choose from! Asos also has their own in-house label called ‘Asos’ that has some of the prettiest dresses and accessories for women of every age, size and type! If you are looking for dresses for women over 60, this might be the best place to start looking from. With tons of different brands, sizes, sales, and categories to choose from, you will be spoiled for choices. Asos also has a specific selection of clothing for plus sized women which not a lot of brands cater to.


    Mango
    Mango is one of the most affordable brands that makes high-end inspired classy clothing for not just young women but also for older women who are above 40 or even above 60! Everything from the color selections to their tailored outfits, dresses, scarves, and jeans are perfectly designed to fit the curvy feminine body of all ages. With modern yet sophisticated color choices and cuts, Mango has raised the bar for a lot of clothing brands in their category. Mango has some of the best dresses for women over 60 as well as handbags and purses. Mango likes to stay in trend but does not go completely out of their way by over doing the colors and prints. The best part about Mango is that it is easily available online and in stores throughout the world. The stores also have some of the best seasonal sales with items’ prices going as low as 70 percent off!

    Nordstrom
    Nordstrom is one of the most popular brands to shop from for women of all ages because not only do they have a wide selection to choose from, they also have a variety of different price ranges to shop from depending upon your budget! They have a great selection of affordable as well as designer wear which you can choose from. You can shop Nordstrom dresses both online as they ship worldwide as well as in stores. Nordstrom has some of the best designs for formal clothes and every casual dresses for women over 60 or even middle aged women at affordable prices.

    J.Crew
    This is a slightly more high-end brand for people who like to spend big on their clothes. If you are looking for smart casuals, basic chic clothing as well as sober formal wear without worrying about the costs, J.Crew is the brand for you. You can shop for J.Crew both online as well as in stores throughout the country. However, if you are shopping in a country where J.Crew doesn’t have stores, then you might end up spending a lot more on shipping rather than on the dresses itself. You can grab an affordable J.Crew on sales and discounts which will come down to the same prices as an outfit from Mango. J.Crew has amazing dresses for women over 60 as well. With premium quality fabric used, clean cuts and stitches, J.Crew clothes are worth every penny!