OnX Realty Is Thankful For You

Thanksgiving is a time-honored holiday in the United States, where friends and family gather together to give thanks and celebrate. At OnX Realty, we are certainly grateful for our friends and clients that we've developed amazing relationships over the years. And, while the way people celebrate may vary from household to household, there are some traditions that are widely popular across the country. We hope you enjoy your Thanksgiving and, ifyou need some ideas on how to make the most of it, here are the top 10 Thanksgiving traditions in the United States.1. Giving Thanks: Of course, the most important tradition of Thanksgiving is giving thanks. Whether it's saying a prayer before the meal or going around the table and sharing what you are grateful for, taking a moment to reflect on the blessings in your life is essential on this holiday. 2. Turkey Dinner: The star of the show on Thanksgiving is undoubtedly the turkey. Roasted to perfection and served with all the fixings, a Thanksgiving dinner is not complete without this iconic bird.3. Pumpkin Pie: Another Thanksgiving staple, pumpkin pie is a must-have dessert on this holiday. Made with creamy pumpkin puree and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, pumpkin pie is the perfect way to end a hearty meal. Best eaten with a significant amount of whipped cream on top or next to some vanilla ice cream.4. Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade: Every year, millions of people tune in to watch the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City. Featuring giant balloons, marching bands, and celebrity performances, the parade has become a beloved tradition for many families.5. Football: For many Americans, watching football on Thanksgiving Day is a time-honored tradition. Whether it's watching the NFL games on TV or playing a friendly game of touch football in the backyard, sports are a big part of Thanksgiving celebrations.6. Friendsgiving: In recent years, a new tradition has emerged called Friendsgiving. This is a day for friends to come together and celebrate Thanksgiving, either in addition to or instead of traditional family festivities.7. Volunteer Work: Many people choose to spend Thanksgiving giving back to their communities by volunteering at soup kitchens, food banks, or homeless shelters. This act of service is a meaningful way to spread gratitude and kindness on this holiday.8. Black Friday Shopping: While some people may choose to spend Thanksgiving relaxing at home, others eagerly anticipate the start of Black Friday shopping. Many retailers offer deep discounts on this day, making it a popular time to start holiday shopping.9. Cornucopia Decorations: The cornucopia, also known as the horn of plenty, is a traditional symbol of abundance and harvest. Many people use cornucopias as decorations on their Thanksgiving tables, filling them with seasonal fruits and vegetables.10. Leftovers: One of the best parts of Thanksgiving is the leftovers. Whether it's making a turkey sandwich with cranberry sauce or turning leftover mashed potatoes into potato pancakes, finding creative ways to enjoy the remnants of the Thanksgiving feast is a fun tradition for many families.In conclusion, Thanksgiving is a time to come together, give thanks, and celebrate the abundance in our lives. Whether you're enjoying a traditional turkey dinner or starting a new tradition with friends, there are countless ways to make this holiday special. What Thanksgiving traditions do you and your loved ones enjoy? Share your favorite traditions in the comments below!

The Impact of Social Media on the Minds and Bodies of Children and Teenagers

The Impact of Social Media on the Minds and Bodies of Children and Teenagers In today’s digital world, children and teenagers are growing up immersed in social media. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat, and YouTube have become integral to their social lives and entertainment. However, the effects of social media on youth mental and physical health are increasingly concerning. Recent psychological and medical research gives us a clearer picture of both the risks and the ways families can respond. The Mental Health Impact: What the Research Says Anxiety, Depression, and Self-Esteem Multiple studies have linked excessive social media use to increased rates of anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem among adolescents. According to a 2024 report from the American Psychological Association, teenagers who spend more than three hours per day on social media are twice as likely to experience symptoms of depression and anxiety compared to those who use these platforms less frequently. Body image issues are also prevalent, with platforms focused on appearance intensifying pressures. One study published in JAMA Pediatrics found a significant association between social media use and body dissatisfaction in both boys and girls (source). Sleep and Cognitive Performance Screen time before bed, especially on social media, disrupts healthy sleep patterns. Blue light from devices affects melatonin production, making it hard for young people to fall asleep. According to the CDC, insufficient sleep due to social media use contributes to poorer academic performance, irritability, and even increased risk of obesity. The Physical Effects: From Sedentary Lifestyles to Eyestrain Heavy use of phones and tablets for social media can lead to reduced physical activity. The World Health Organization notes that a lack of movement is now one of the top risk factors for global mortality in youth. In addition, spending hours hunched over screens is linked to: Eye strain and dry eyes, sometimes called “digital eye strain” or “computer vision syndrome” (source). Neck, back, and shoulder pain from poor posture. Higher risk of obesity and related health problems due to inactivity. Social Development: Connection or Isolation? While social media can help teens stay connected, it can also amplify feelings of isolation and inadequacy. Cyberbullying, social comparison, and the pressure to present a perfect life online can damage real-life relationships and interpersonal skills (source). What Can Parents and Caregivers Do? Given the complexities around social media and youth, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. However, research-based strategies can help: 1. Open Conversations Talk regularly with your kids about their online experiences and feelings. Encourage openness about cyberbullying, social pressures, and what they see online. 2. Set Healthy Boundaries and Limits Establish device-free zones and curfews for screen use, especially at bedtime. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends no media use for children under 2, and no more than 1-2 hours per day for older children. 3. Model Positive Behavior Show balanced online habits and clarify the differences between real and curated online lives. 4. Encourage Physical and Offline Activities Promote extracurriculars, family activities, and opportunities for face-to-face socialization. 5. Educate About Online Risks Discuss privacy, appropriate sharing, and digital footprints. 6. Seek Professional Help If Needed If your child shows signs of distress, withdrawal, or dramatic mood shifts, consider consulting a mental health professional. Final Thoughts Social media shapes the way today’s children and teens see themselves and the world. While outright banning it isn’t practical, awareness and proactive guidance are essential. By staying informed about the latest research, maintaining open communication, and fostering balanced lifestyles, parents and caregivers can help youth navigate the digital age with confidence and care. For further reading, check out these resources: American Psychological Association: Mental health and social media CDC: Parent and Caregiver Guide to Social Media The Children’s Society: Social Media and Young People’s Mental Health Empowered with knowledge and support, families can help their children reap the benefits—and minimize the harms—of social media.