Getting a newborn a Social Security number is important for their future. If your child is born in a hospital, the easiest way to apply for a Social Security number is right at the hospital. When you give information for your child’s birth certificate at the hospital, you’ll be asked whether you want to apply for a Social Security number for your child. If you say “yes,” you will be asked to provide both parents’ Social Security numbers, if you can. Even if you don’t know both parents’ Social Security numbers, you can still apply for a number for your child.

If you do a Google search for financial wellness, you will find many definitions or explanations. Financial wellness doesn’t have just one meaning because it means something different to each person. Financial wellness is a broad term that encompasses these key areas:

Shirley and I have been campers since 1975, first in tents and then an RV. Our favorite places to visit have always been the national parks because they are such splendid repositories of magnificent scenery, wildlife, and historical and cultural significance. Still, our camping is not limited to the national parks because there is a wide range of other attractive options. Even in the national parks, some places are more desirable than others. Sometimes you learn where to camp by first learning where not to camp.

Safe driving isn’t a matter of luck. The safest drivers on the road are those who adopt a defensive approach every time they get behind the wheel. Defensive drivers always expect the unexpected and know how to adjust their driving habits in order to minimize the likelihood of accidents, thereby making the road a safer place for everyone. Here is a sampling of their safe-driving secrets:

Mrs. Jones has lived in her assisted-living apartment for some time now. She moved in during the pandemic, so things thus far have been an altogether atypical experience. Last month, we discussed how Mrs. Jones relies on the facility staff for care and support when her family can’t visit. Similarly, we discussed that in many cases, staff members find the same fulfillment with the interpersonal relationships they build with facility residents. However, like any relationship, there are always a few struggles.

We tend to think of creativity as the “muse” that inspires painters, sculptors, musicians, and writers to achieve their best work. In actuality, creativity is a vital factor in virtually every walk of life. Think of creativity as the force that shapes and directs raw talent. Whether your calling is business, medicine, law, teaching, ministry, politics, athletics, parenting, or any other pursuit, success depends, at least in some part, on your ability to think creatively and find innovative solutions.

Are you interested in running but afraid of the first steps? Here are a few tips to get you off on the right foot and on your way to enjoying the sport of running. Most important, consult your physician before starting any exercise program.

After a year in which many things familiar were turned upside-down, there’s one time-honored tradition that opens 2021, as it does the start of every other year: the making of New Year’s resolutions. Research shows that about half of all Americans resolve to lose weight, save more money and spend less, be a better partner and person, be more organized—or any other type of personal improvement—in the new year. However, fewer than one out of 10 of those resolvers carry through with those good intentions.

Mrs. Jones is exhausted, but she made it through 2020. She experienced so many changes in her life—losing some independence, experiencing health issues, and having to limit her time with her family to stay safe. It is fair to say she was glad to see another year come and go.

Readers of a certain age will undoubtedly recall the Great Blizzard of 1978. (Where was Global Warming when we really needed it?) Actually, the Great Blizzard was a series of three separate storms that struck in January and February. The first storm bypassed Ohio but hit New England with nearly two feet of snow within 48 hours. We got our share during the second phase of the Blizzard.